No trip to DC would be complete without spending some time at "America's Front Yard". The monuments and memorials are a must-see, especially when they're all lit up at night! Nearest Metro Stations: Smithsonian (Blue Line, Orange Line, Silver Line) Federal Triangle (Blue Line, Orange Line, Silver Line)
The Smithsonian is the world's largest museum complex, home to more than a dozen museums and the National Zoo. See Neil Armstrong's Apollo 11 spacesuit at the National Air and Space Museum, the flag that inspired the National Anthem at the National Museum of American History, or the exotic animals at the National Zoo. Admission is always free, but some locations require you to reserve a timed-entry ticket, so plan ahead! Nearest Metro Stations: Smithsonian (Blue Line, Orange Line, Silver Line) Federal Triangle (Blue Line, Orange Line, Silver Line)
You can't steal the Declaration of Independence, but you can see it alongside the Constitution and Bill of Rights at the National Archives. Admission is free; reserving a timed-entry ticket ahead of your visit is recommended but not required. Nearest Metro Station: Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter (Green Line, Yellow Line)
Witness the solemn Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, see the Eternal Flame at the gravesite of President John F. Kennedy, and take in the spectacular view of our nation's capital from Arlington House. Nearest Metro Station: Arlington Cemetery (Blue Line)
Along the banks of the Potomac River, The Wharf is home to some of DC's best dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Grab some fresh seafood at the Fish Market, find a locally-crafted souvenir at Shop Made in DC, or enjoy a concert at The Anthem. Nearest Metro Station: Waterfront (Green Line)
Take a walk down 14th Street and explore some of DC's best boutique shops. If you're hungry, grab a Chili Half-Smoke from Ben's Chili Bowl or enjoy the Parisian bistro vibes at Le Diplomate. Nearest Metro Stations: U Street/African-Amer Civil War Memorial/Cardozo (Green Line) McPherson Square (Blue Line, Orange Line, Silver Line)
Grab a bagel at Call Your Mother Deli, stroll along the cobblestone streets and the C&O Canal, and satisfy your sweet tooth with a famous Georgetown Cupcake. Nearest Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom-GWU (Blue Line, Orange Line, Silver Line) Rosslyn (Blue Line, Orange Line, Silver Line)
For Breakfast: Crabcake Benedict at Ted's Bulletin For Lunch: Chili Half-Smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl For Dinner: Escargots and Steak Frites at Le Diplomate For Dessert: Van Leeuwen Ice Cream