If you’re ready to explore monuments, museums, and the heartbeat of American history, I always say—head to Washington, D.C.! After 25 years of travel writing, I’ve walked these iconic streets more times than I can count, and each visit still teaches me something new. You’ll stand in the shadow of monuments, dive into world-class museums, and experience neighborhoods full of energy and flavor. Whether you’re reflecting by the Lincoln Memorial or discovering tucked-away cafes in Georgetown, D.C. is where inspiration meets culture—and I never leave without learning or tasting something unforgettable.
Washington, D.C. Highlights:
- For History Buffs: Tour the National Mall and monuments – I’ve spent entire days here, and you’ll be moved by the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and WWII Memorial.
- For Museum Lovers: Explore the Smithsonian Institution – You can visit for free, and I still haven’t run out of reasons to return. Don’t miss the Air & Space Museum or the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
- For Families: Visit the National Zoo – I’ve seen the joy on kids’ faces watching the giant pandas, and you’ll appreciate the wide-open layout and exhibits.
- For Art Enthusiasts: Discover the National Gallery of Art – I could spend hours here. You’ll love the contrast between classic and modern art—and the sculpture garden is a peaceful escape.
- For Culture Seekers: Stroll through Georgetown – I never skip a walk along the cobblestone streets. You’ll find colonial charm, riverside dining, and plenty of boutique shops to explore.
Best Time to Visit Washington, D.C.
In my opinion, spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are your best bets. I’ve timed trips with the cherry blossoms, and you’ll find the scenery breathtaking. Fall is ideal for crisp weather and smaller crowds. Summer’s vibrant but hot, while winter offers a peaceful, festive vibe and far fewer lines.
How to Get to Washington, D.C.
- By Air: I usually fly into Reagan National (DCA) for convenience—just 15 minutes from downtown. But you can also come through Dulles (IAD) or Baltimore (BWI) if it works better for you.
- By Train: I’ve taken Amtrak into Union Station—it’s easy, comfortable, and drops you right in the center of it all.
- By Metro: You’ll love how easy the Metro makes it to get around. I use it to hop between neighborhoods and avoid parking hassles altogether.
Where to Stay in Washington, D.C.
- Recommended for Families: Embassy Suites by Hilton – Georgetown – I’ve stayed here with family, and you’ll appreciate the space, breakfast, and metro access.
- For Couples: Hotel Hive – This micro-hotel is one of my favorite trendy spots—close to the action with great rooftop views.
- For Luxury Travelers: The Hay-Adams – I once treated myself here, and the elegance is unmatched. You’ll be steps from the White House with impeccable service to match.
Best Romantic Things to Do in Washington, D.C.
Admire Masterpieces Like a Pro at the National Gallery of Art
I decided to start here on my first day in D.C. because of National Gallery of Art's location in the National Mall on Constitution Avenue. It's one of the country’s top art galleries so I definitely didn't want to miss it. Since the the museum covers such a vast area, I spent half a day here and only saw parts of it. The original neoclassical West Building, which was designed by John Russell Pope, and the newer East Building, designed by I.M. Pei, are both impressive but my favorite was the Sculpture Garden.
Just in the Gallery’s main collection, you can see major works of art from the Italian Renaissance period to the Middle Ages, a vast selection of European paintings, including the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the United States, and over 75,000 prints.
Address: 6th & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, D.C., Phone: 202-737-4215
Stroll along the National Mall to Capture Iconic DC in a Single Day
After spending hours at the museum, I had a quick snack at the museum cafe and proceeded outside to see the National Mall. I'm sure you've seen pictures in countless news stories and movies. Don't miss walking in this large green urban space in the heart of the city which stands as a symbol of our nation and its democratic values. You'll be able to admire the White House, the State Capitol, Constitution Gardens, East and West Potomac Parks, and monuments such as the Washington Monument, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and D.C. War Memorial, among others. Plan to spend quite a bit of time walking around and be sure to wear comfortable shoes!
National Mall and Memorial Parks is open 24 hours a day, but I found that the best times to visit are the early evening and during the morning, when the area is tranquil, romantic and less crowded.
900 Ohio Drive, SW, Washington, D.C., Phone: 877-444-6777
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
Dine and Shop at the Wharf District
Washington’s Southwest Waterfront has in its time been a Native American village, the city’s water entryway, a military hub, and a fish market. The city’s new Wharf District was developed as a great meeting place with spectacular water views, hot restaurants, and live entertainment as the newest and most exciting new neighborhood in the nation’s capital. A mile-long stretch of land on the banks of the Potomac River, The Wharf re-establishes Washington as a lively waterfront city. There is so much to do at The Wharf besides eating your way through the great restaurants and cafes. Strolling along the pier offers fantastic views of the river and the city. Visitors can rent a kayak and see some of the city’s famous landmarks from the water. There are frequent concerts at The Anthem as well as street performers, fun shops, and all sorts of businesses.
Wander Through the Smithsonian Gardens
The Smithsonian Gardens are located around museums and monuments throughout the National Mall and aim to extend the surrounding museums’ exhibits and learning environment in an eco-friendly garden setting. Open year-round, seven days a week, the Gardens offer visitors something new every season. Some of the possible attractions include horticultural exhibits, floral collections, specialty gardens, and educational programs.
The Smithsonian Gardens feature a few outdoor museums, including the Butterfly Habitat Garden, the Enid. A. Haupt Garden, the Heirloom Garden, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, all of which can be enjoyed throughout the year. The Gardens are also home to a variety of living plant, artifact, and archival collections for research and exhibition purposes.
Capital Gallery, Suite 3300, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C., Phone: 202-633-2220
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
The Pub and the People
The Pub and the People is an up-and-coming Bloomingdale tavern that was voted as D.C.'s best neighborhood bar in 2017 and 2018. The American-style tavern serves a menu of globally-influenced gastropub fare, including five-spice duck breast, black pepper tofu, and sumac and chickpea burgers, with clever dessert options such as bread pudding and pub brownies topped with liquor-infused ice cream. A large local draft beer list is offered, along with a selection of craft cocktails, whiskeys, and fine wines. After the bar's kitchen closes, hot Republic Kolaches are served as bar bites. Happy hour specials are offered on weekdays, and Geeks Who Drink trivia events are presented periodically.
1648 North Capitol St NW, Washington, DC 20001, Phone: 202-796-5820
Visit Cork Market & Tasting Room
The Cork Market & Tasting Room is located just south of the U Street Corridor in Washington and has a market-style menu accompanied by a vast selection of wines. The menu features an array of charcuterie and cheese boards, breads and crackers, homemade pasta and prepared foods, and a selection of gourmet delights such as truffle butter.
If you are looking for fun date ideas in DC, this is a great place to try. The impressive wine list boasts both local boutique wines and international vintages from around the world that can be ordered by the glass or bottle, as well as a range of spirits and beers. The Cork Market & Tasting Room is open for dinner and serves weekend brunch.
1805 14th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C., Phone: 202-265-2674
Book a Table at The Red Hen
Established by long-time friends Michael Friedman, Michael O'Malley, and Sebastian Zutant, The Red Hen is an Italian-influenced restaurant located in the beautiful neighborhood of Bloomingdale. Wooden floors and tables and a roughly-hewn exposed brick wall create an inviting and informal atmosphere, while the menu features authentic Italian fare such as whipped ricotta crostini, mezze rigatoni, and caramelized scallops, as well as indulging desserts. The cuisine can be paired with a refreshing beverage from their selection of signature cocktails and boutique wines from Italy.
1822 First Street NW DC 20001, Washington, D.C., Phone: 202-525-3021
If You Love Local Art, Explore Touchstone Gallery’s Rotating Exhibits
Touchstone Gallery is a high-quality art gallery along Washington, D.C's New York Avenue NW, located approximately half a mile between the United States Capital Building and the White House near attractions such as CityCenter DC and the National Museum of Women in the Arts. The gallery, which was originally founded in 1976, strives to promote the D.C.'s region's best and brightest artistic talent and enrich the lives of its surrounding community members through a diverse slate of contemporary art exhibitions. More than 50 artists are members of the artist-owned and managed gallery and help to guide gallery policies and oversee solo exhibitions. Artists showcasing exhibitions include Linda Bankerd, Jill Brantley, Rick Braswell, Anna Katalkina, and Janathel Shaw.
901 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, Phone: 202-347-2787
Osteria Morini
After walking all day, I was hungry for Italian food so we ate at Osteria Morini. At this stylish restaurant, you can taste the flavors of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy.
Address: 301 Water Street Southeast, Suite 109, Washington, D.C., Phone: 202-484-0660
Jump to a Spot...
- • Admire Masterpieces Like a Pro at the National Gallery of Art
- • Stroll along the National Mall to Capture Iconic DC in a Single Day
- • Dine and Shop at the Wharf District
- • Wander Through the Smithsonian Gardens
- • The Pub and the People
- • Visit Cork Market & Tasting Room
- • Book a Table at The Red Hen
- • If You Love Local Art, Explore Touchstone Gallery’s Rotating Exhibits
- • Osteria Morini