5 Days of Iconic History, Culture & Flavors in the Nation’s Capital

During my time in DC, I stayed at the Marriott Marquis, located in the heart of downtown and steps from the City Center, Convention Center, and Chinatown. This central location made it incredibly convenient to explore the city’s top sites, many of which were just a short walk or quick ride away. The hotel itself was spacious, simple, and well-equipped—ideal for solo or active travelers who don’t plan to spend much time in their rooms.

Washington, DC is made up of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality and attractions.

Downtown & Penn Quarter

This is where politics meets culture. Home to the National Archives, Capital One Arena, and countless restaurants, it’s a bustling hub for business, entertainment, and government landmarks. It’s also where you’ll find favorites like Clyde’s, Oyamel, and Nando’s.

Capitol Hill

Beyond the iconic Capitol building lies one of DC’s most beautiful neighborhoods. Tree-lined streets, the historic Eastern Market, and charming rowhouses give this area a local, lived-in feel. Don’t miss the Library of Congress and Supreme Court if you’re nearby.

Georgetown

Known for its cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and high-end shops, Georgetown mixes historic charm with upscale sophistication. Enjoy a riverside stroll along the C&O Canal, boutique shopping, or a cozy coffee in one of its many cafés.

Dupont Circle

Trendy and intellectual, Dupont Circle is full of embassies, galleries, bookstores, and historic architecture. It’s also a hub for nightlife, LGBTQ+ culture, and casual neighborhood dining.

The Wharf & Navy Yard

These redeveloped waterfront districts have transformed into two of the city’s coolest hangouts. Think rooftop bars, seafood restaurants, outdoor concerts, and scenic views of the Potomac River. Ideal for an evening out or weekend brunch.

Adams Morgan & U Street

These areas pulse with music, culture, and food. Known for their vibrant nightlife and diverse cuisine, you’ll find everything from jazz clubs to Ethiopian eateries. U Street also holds deep roots in Black history and the legacy of Duke Ellington.

Things to do

• The White House and US Capitol: Get a glimpse into the nation’s leadership and democracy. Both are impressive from the outside and offer tour options. Make sure to visit both the North and South side of the White House. To schedule a tour of the White House, you will need to submit a request through your Member of Congress 90 days in advance. Making a reservation for a tour to see the Capitol is a little easier. You simply need to select a day and time through their website. A tour is the only way to get inside the rotunda.

• Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool: A beautiful area to walk and take in some of the most iconic views in the city. Start your time at the National Mall at the Lincoln Memorial. When you arrive at the top of the steps, take a moment to view the entire Mall area with the reflecting pool right in front of you.

• World War II Memorial: From the Lincoln Memorial, take a stroll by the reflecting pool and at the end you will find yourself at the WWII Memorial and Rainbow Pool. Stop for a moment to pay respect and to read the names of the veterans who lost their lives for us to maintain our freedom.

• Washington Monument: Adjacent to the World War II Memorial is the world’s tallest stone obelisk and one of DC’s most recognized symbols. Encircling the base are 50 American flags, representing each state, waving proudly in honor of unity and freedom. If you are fortunate enough to get a ticket, you can take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the National Mall and beyond—truly one of the best ways to take in the city. Ticket reservations can be made online 30 days in advance at 10 am EST or 24 hours before your desired date.

• National Archives: Home to the Declaration of Independence, US Constitution, and Bill of Rights, displayed in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom. Though the museum is small and the exterior is currently under renovation, the experience of seeing these foundational documents is unforgettable. The Declaration of Independence has faded over time, and much of the writing is now difficult to read, which adds to its sense of fragility and importance. This iconic location was also featured in the movie National Treasure, bringing a pop culture spotlight to one of America’s most sacred spaces. Despite its size, the museum leaves a lasting impression. Reservations can be made online and are highly recommended.

• Natural History Museum: Perfect for all ages. This is the world’s largest natural history museum, and the Hope Diamond can be seen here. No reservations are needed and it is free to enter. I recommend watching Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian prior to visiting.

• National Museum of American History: This Smithsonian museum offers an in-depth look at the people, events, and innovations that shaped the United States. I especially enjoyed the First Ladies exhibit, which showcases inaugural gowns, personal artifacts, and the evolving role of women in the White House—it’s elegant, insightful, and rich in detail. The museum also features powerful exhibits on transportation, the American presidency, and the Star-Spangled Banner, the very flag that inspired the national anthem. With everything from pop culture memorabilia to Civil Rights history, it’s an engaging and accessible way to connect with the American story. Admission is free and no reservations are required.

• National Air and Space Museum: A must for aviation lovers, with real spacecrafts and historic planes on display. Unfortunately, there are no space shuttles in this museum. Currently, only eight galleries are open. Five more are scheduled to open in July 2025, while the remaining galleries are scheduled to open in July 2026.

• International Spy Museum: A little off the path from the National Mall, but this was a personal favorite! Engaging exhibits that blend real-life espionage with interactive storytelling. You will be provided with your own secret agent name, and with your identification card, you can scan at different parts of the museum to experience different case scenarios. This is the museum I spent the most time in. It was absolutely fascinating!

• National Portrait Gallery: A quieter, elegant space featuring presidential portraits and powerful exhibitions celebrating American culture. Unfortunately, Michelle Obama’s portrait is currently on tour and I wasn’t able to see that. Biden and Trump’s portraits are currently in the archives and have been replaced with photos. My favorite painting was of Artist Point by Thomas Moran.

Washington, DC is a great city for food lovers, with an impressive range of flavors from around the world. Here are some standout spots I personally enjoyed.

• Clyde’s of Gallery Place: A classic American restaurant with a cozy, elegant vibe. I highly recommend the crab cakes, crab dip, and crab soup—a delicious taste of the region.

• Oyamel Cocina Mexicana: Upscale Mexican with small plates and bold flavors. Their guacamole, made fresh at your table, is unforgettable.

• Nando’s PERi-PERi: For something casual and flavorful, Nando’s offers flame-grilled chicken with a Portuguese twist. My favorite was the classic peri-peri chicken with the garlic sauce.

• 2Fifty Texas BBQ: If you’re a barbecue fan, this spot is worth the short drive to Maryland. The brisket and ribs are cooked to perfection, and the sides are just as memorable.

• Luna Hall: This trendy Asian food hall offers a variety of small bites and drinks. I recommend the croquettes, dumplings, and a refreshing milk tea. It’s a great place to grab a casual meal while exploring the city or winding down after a day of sightseeing.