DC: How to Spend A Long Weekend in the Capital City

Apr 16

This is a particularly apt itinerary for those visiting the district for the first time. But it’s just as good for repeat connoisseurs.

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Thursday (Arrive)

Have lunch at Jose Andres’ Jaleo in Chinatown aka Downtown. The croquettes are a must as are the patatas bravas and desserts!

Walk down to the mall and check off the National Monument, the Martin Luther King Jr. Monument, and the Lincoln Monument. Remember to stay hydrated and wear a hat if it’s warm and sunny, the humidity can be intense in DC, and walking around the mall is more spread than it seems.

Head to see the exterior of the White House and visit the always awesome contemporary immersives at the Renwick a block away. If there’s time head to one or two other Smithsonian’s at your leisure.

Check into Tabard Inn. Walk Embassy Row along the area and see all countries’ representations. Can you recognize all the different flags?

Delight in dinner at Tabard Inn.

Friday

Grab a coffee and nibble at the ever-delightful Dolcezza.

Head down to Georgetown for a walk if you please.

Shop the streets and peruse the waterfront, kayak if you’re feeling active, and treat yourself to a pastry at Paul or a sugary rush at Georgetown Cupcake.

Georgetown kayakers and waterfront overlook

Enjoy lunch at the infamous Farmers Fishers & Bakers back in Georgetown.

Head up to visit the Natural History Museum, and get lost in the wonders there. Or, check out the Portrait Gallery if you’re more of a people person.

Have a multi-country street-food-fueled dinner at Compass Rose. The khachapuri from Georgia is one of the highlights, but just having an array of global street food in one meal hits 🫰🏽.

Choose a live show at DC’s own Howard Theater!

Saturday

Bask in a coffee and breakfast at Maketto on H St. The matcha is excellent and the baked goods there have a mood.

Make your way for a hike and waltz around Rock Creek Park, the foliage is wonderful in all seasons except wintertime.

Mosey over to Union Market for lunch and sample all the treats there, there’s a plentiful roster to decide from.

Make a trip out to the National Arboretum to scope the ginkgo trees and standing architecture.

Round things up with a lovely Laotian dinner at Thip Khao. Laotian sausages and salads are a must. If you’re feeling more small-plates, go for exceptional ones at Tail Up Goat, the wine pairings are key.