Washington D.C. has so much to offer, and the best part is, a lot of the activities are free! From history buffs to foodies, there is something for everyone in our nation's capitol.
FRIDAY
Ford's Theatre - After touring the Theatre where Lincoln was shot, walk across the street for a peek in the Petersen House, where Lincoln was carried.
Shake Shack - BIG fan of Shake Shack's Washington Monu-Mint concrete, and it's across the street from Ford's Theatre.
International Spy Museum - One of the best museums in DC; budget a few hours, because it's huge!
National Archives - Houses the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence & Bill of Rights! Also, where National Treasure was filmed.
Museum of the Bible - Purchase your tickets online beforehand to save time, and check out their traveling exhibits.
Good Stuff Eatery - Located right next to the capitol building, stop in for their awesome Black & White milkshakes.
SATURDAY
University of Georgetown - Check out the on-campus cemetery, which gave The Tombs restaurant & bar its name!
Martin's Tavern - Pancakes & mimosas in the booth where JFK proposed to Jackie, what more could you ask for? Highly recommend making a reservation.
C&O Canal - The path that runs next to the canal through Georgetown and along the Potomac and offers a unique view of the city.
Shop in downtown Georgetown - Tuckernuck is one of my favorite local shops!
Georgetown Cupcakes - Worth the line!
Arlington National Cemetery - The cemetery covers 600+ acres, so do some research beforehand on which monuments & memorials you want to see, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, JFK's gravesite, and the Arlington House.
Ted's Bulletin - Whether you order off the breakfast or dinner menu, I highly recommend the homemade Pop Tarts for dessert.
POV Rooftop - Located on top of the W Hotel, it offers prime views of the Washington Monument and the White House.
SUNDAY
Give your feet a break, rent bikes ($8 for 24 hours!) and ride around the monuments!
White House tour - Set this up through your congressman ASAP, since it's first-come, first-serve.
Newseum - As a PR professional, I could have spent hours in here. The balcony also offers a pretty spectacular view of the Capitol.
We the Pizza - If you don't get their four cheese pizza, you're doing it wrong.
National Cathedral - Try to make it for the Choral Evensong, every Sunday at 4 p.m.
District Taco - As a Texan, I'm pretty particular about my tacos, but these pass the test!
The Hamilton - *Insert Hamilton reference here* (but really, they have delicious boozy milkshakes and fabulous drinks)
MONDAY
Firehook Bakery - One of the best breakfasts sandwiches I've ever had!
Library of Congress - We had to pretend that we were in National Treasure, so we got our own library cards.
Capitol tour - Book through your state representative ASAP, and don't miss the incredible paintings in the rotunda.
ADDITIONAL RELEVANT TIPS
Check and see if there's a concert in front of the Capitol; they normally have fun shows on long weekends or near the holidays!
Depending on where you're staying, the Metro is only sometimes helpful. I would recommend utilizing Uber or Lyft over buying a Metro pass
If you're a student, bring your student ID! You can get discounts on tickets and such
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