Exploring Washington DC: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States of America—spring school trips, history-buff dads forcing their tired and hungry kids to stare at museums, monuments, and memorials they know or care nothing about—is truly a place like no other. But with so much to see, how do you make the most of your time? That’s where a well-planned Washington DC itinerary comes in.

If you’re anything like us, visiting a place with so much to see and experience can feel overwhelming. But fear not—I, Elijah (the history-buff), and Alyssa (the one who loves to travel but has a much lower tolerance for endless historical facts), are here to help.

United States Capitol Building

We will give you the written list of attractions we saw in Washington D.C., with only two days to visit. Our focus was walking the National Mall, as we were staying fairly close for another project, and we wanted to see as much as possible without spending all of our time indoors. With only 48 hours in D.C., we knew we wouldn’t have time to dive deep into every museum or tour every landmark, so we crafted an ambitious walking route to cover the highlights.

This post focuses on how we managed to see nearly everything in the National Mall with just a single day—without renting bikes, taking public transit, or stopping for long museum visits. If you’re short on time but still want to experience the essence of Washington, D.C., this guide is for you.

So, grab your walking shoes (and maybe some snacks and water, unlike us), and follow along as we take you through one of the most history-packed walks in the United States!

Getting to the National Mall:

With most trips, one of the more intimidating factors is figuring out when and how to get to your destination. The National Mall is no exception, but keep in mind that D.C. is a highly walkable city with plenty of transportation options. Don’t stress too much about where to stay based on proximity—whether you're nearby or further out, getting to the Mall is relatively easy.

We started our journey near the White House, due to staying at the Hampton Inn Washington, D.C./White House (hotel review here). However, if you’re not within walking distance, there are plenty of ways to get there!

Protest outside the White House, Washington, D.C

Parking Near the National Mall:

If driving, be prepared for limited parking near the National Mall. There are no dedicated visitor parking lots, but you can find metered street parking or garages nearby:

• Metered Parking: 

  • Available along Constitution Ave NW and Independence Ave SW, but spots fill up quickly.

  • You can use ParkMobile to pay for parking all around the National Mall

• Parking Garages: 

  • The closest garages are near Union Station, L’Enfant Plaza, and CityCenterDC.

  •  Apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz can help find and reserve spots in advance.

• Free Parking: 

  • Some areas near the Tidal Basin and Hains Point offer free parking

  • Free parking is a longer walk, so keep in mind if you're strict on time

Professor Joseph Henry Statue outside the Smithsonian

Taking an Uber, Lyft, or Ride-share:

Ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft are convenient options, especially if you're staying outside the city center.

• Best Drop-Off Points:

  • Washington Monument (for a central starting point)

  • Lincoln Memorial (if you want to start west and work your way east)

  • U.S. Capitol (if starting from the east side of the Mall)

• Fares can vary depending on traffic, but expect $10-$25 from most downtown areas and $40+ from further suburbs like Arlington or Alexandria.

  
  
  
  

  

  The stairs and courtyard of the Capitol Building

  
  

Taking the Metro to the National Mall:

D.C.'s Metro system is one of the easiest ways to reach the National Mall. There are several Metro stations near key landmarks:

• Smithsonian Station (Orange, Blue, Silver Lines) – Closest to the Smithsonian Museums and Washington Monument

• L’Enfant Plaza (Orange, Blue, Silver, Green, Yellow Lines) – Near the Air and Space Museum and Hirshhorn Museum

• Federal Triangle (Orange, Blue, Silver Lines) – A short walk to the White House and American History Museum

• Capitol South (Orange, Blue, Silver Lines) – Best for visiting the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress

  
  

If using the Metro, grab a SmarTrip card for easy fare payments. Fares vary by distance and time of day, but most rides within D.C. cost $2-$4.

The Best Tips to Make the Most of Your Walk Through the National Mall:

Tip #1: Choose a Long Summer Day:

We know—walking miles in the heat doesn’t sound like a dream plan for most people. But hear us out: your goal is to maximize your time. If you want to see everything in full daylight—whether for family photos, screensavers, or that perfect Instagram shot—you need as much sun as possible.

Luckily, summer in Washington, D.C. isn’t unbearably hot, with average highs between 80°F and 84°F (27°C to 29°C). Your biggest battle will be the humidity, so be prepared!

Looking up at the Capitol Building

Tip #2: Bring Sunscreen, Something to Cover Yourself, and Lots of Water:

If tip #1 is about soaking up the sun, then tip #2 is about not letting it ruin your day.

• Sunscreen: The last thing you want is to end the day looking like the Washington Monument itself—red and peeling.

• Hat, Covering, or Umbrella: While the perimeter of the National Mall has plenty of trees, the main walking paths are open and exposed. A hat or light covering will keep you cool and out of direct sunlight.

• Water: Hydration is key. There are water fountains near most attractions, but if you don’t want to constantly search for them, bring your own. Street vendors also sell drinks, but expect to pay tourist prices.

The fountains inside the World War 2 Memorial

Tip #3: If There’s a Bathroom Nearby and You Need to Go, Use It:

This might sound obvious, but trust us—bathroom access isn’t always convenient. The National Mall is massive, and sometimes you’ll be walking a solid 30-45 minutes before the next restroom stop. If you pass one and even think you might need it soon, just go.

Where to Find Bathrooms:

• Museums (best option—clean and air-conditioned!)

• Lincoln Memorial & Jefferson Memorial (outdoor restrooms nearby)

• Washington Monument & Visitor Centers (decent facilities)

• Portable Toilets (scattered, but not ideal)

  
  

  

  Staring up at the Washington Monument

  
  

Tip #4: If There Are People in Your Picture, Just Give It a Minute:

Want a perfect, tourist-free shot? Just wait it out. The good news is most people are moving quickly—spending 10-15 minutes max at each stop. If you have patience, you’ll get your moment. Early mornings and late afternoons also tend to be less crowded, especially at major spots like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.

Tip #5: Wear Comfortable Shoes—Seriously:

You might think you can tough it out in sandals or stylish sneakers, but after miles of walking, you will regret that choice. The National Mall spans over 2 miles, and with all the stops, you’ll easily walk 5+ miles in a day.

Best footwear options:

• Running shoes or supportive sneakers (your feet will thank you)

• Light hiking sandals (if you prefer breathability)

• Avoid new shoes—break them in before your trip!

Courtyard, driveway, and fountains in front of the U.S Capitol Building

Tip #6: Take a Break When You Need To:

Even if you’re trying to see everything in one day, taking a break won’t slow you down as much as you think. Sit by the Reflecting Pool, grab a snack from a food cart, or just relax at a shady bench near the Smithsonian Gardens.

By pacing yourself, you’ll enjoy the experience more instead of just rushing from one site to the next.

Final Thoughts:

The National Mall is one of the most walkable and rewarding places to explore in the U.S., but proper planning makes all the difference. Follow these tips, bring the right gear, and you’ll have an amazing time without the exhaustion. Now, time to start walking!

Time to Walk:

You made it! You battled city traffic to find parking, endured the Metro—dozing off only to be jolted awake by the next stop—or saved some cash and biked your way in, only to immediately regret how much energy that took. And now? The urge to turn around and go back to bed is real.

The Washington Monument at sunset

But you cannot give up now! You’re here, you’re ready, and just like Washington crossing the Delaware, you have no idea what you’re doing, but you’re doing it anyway.

Now it’s time to pick your speed. We’re going to break down our two-day itinerary, starting from the White House, at a few different paces—so you can decide how ambitious (or relaxed) you want to be.

A Few Quick Notes:

• Flexibility is key. The National Mall is one big rectangle, so if you’re starting from a different spot, that’s fine! This guide is more about distances and flow rather than a rigid order.

• Why finish at the Lincoln Memorial? We know it might feel odd to save the biggest attraction for last, but trust us—it’s all about the view. You’re on the East Coast, and the sun sets in the West. Ending your day facing west at the Lincoln Memorial means you’ll get one of the most breathtaking sunset views over the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument.

Washington DC Itinerary: A Fast-Track National Mall Walking Tour

• Our Starting Point: Hampton Inn Washington, D.C./White House (where we stayed)

• Total Walking Distance: ~10+ miles over two days

• Total Time: ~16+ hours over two days

Extra for This Route:

If you forgot your lunch, street food is quick but pricey. If you’re in a bind, remember—speed is the name of the game. Grab those $17 chicken tenders, scarf them down, and keep moving.

We wanted to showcase how easy it can be to take in the views of the National Mall without pressing too far into your evening. This itinerary is perfect for travelers with dinner plans, an evening work conference, or those who get a thrill from checking off all the major sights in record time.

Food trucks lining the National Mall

Day 1: Exploring the National Mall’s Core Landmarks

1. White House (Front) – (5 min walk, 8:00 AM - 8:10 AM)

2. White House (Back) – (5 min walk, 8:15 AM - 8:25 AM)

3. National Museum of African American History & Culture (Exterior Only) – (7 min walk, 8:30 AM - 8:40 AM)

4. Washington Monument – (5 min walk, 8:45 AM - 9:00 AM)

5. National Museum of American History (Exterior Only) – (5 min walk, 9:05 AM - 9:15 AM)

6. National Museum of Natural History (Exterior Only) – (3 min walk, 9:20 AM - 9:30 AM)

7. National Gallery of Art (Exterior Only) – (10 min walk, 9:40 AM - 9:55 AM)

8. U.S. Capitol (Exterior Only) – (15 min walk, 10:10 AM - 10:30 AM)

9. Supreme Court (Exterior Only) – (5 min walk, 10:35 AM - 10:45 AM)

10. U.S. Botanic Garden – (8 min walk, 10:50 AM - 11:10 AM)

11. Bartholdi Fountain & Gardens (U.S. Botanic Garden) – (3 min walk, 11:15 AM - 11:25 AM)

12. Lunch Break

13. National Museum of the American Indian (Exterior Only) – (5 min walk, 12:35 PM - 12:45 PM)

14. National Air and Space Museum (Exterior Only) – (5 min walk, 12:50 PM - 1:00 PM)

15. Hirshhorn Museum (Exterior Only) – (5 min walk, 1:05 PM - 1:15 PM)

16. Smithsonian Castle – (5 min walk, 1:20 PM - 1:35 PM)

17. Washington Monument (Again, passing by en route to memorials) – (10 min walk, 1:45 PM - 2:00 PM)

18. World War II Memorial – (10 min walk, 2:10 PM - 2:25 PM)

19. Reflecting Pool Walk – (10 min, 2:30 PM - 2:45 PM)

20. Lincoln Memorial – (10 min walk, 2:55 PM - 3:30 PM)

    
    

    

    The Lincoln Memorial view from the front

    
    

Day 2: Expanding Beyond the Core Memorials

1. Constitution Gardens – (5 min walk, 8:00 AM - 8:15 AM)

2. Vietnam Veterans Memorial – (5 min walk, 8:20 AM - 8:40 AM)

3. Korean War Memorial – (5 min walk, 8:45 AM - 9:00 AM)

4. JFK Hockey Fields (to see the horses) – (7 min walk, 9:05 AM - 9:20 AM)

5. West Potomac Park – (10 min walk, 9:30 AM - 9:50 AM)

6. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial – (10 min walk, 10:00 AM - 10:20 AM)

7. Japanese Lantern – (5 min walk, 10:25 AM - 10:40 AM)

8. Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial – (5 min walk, 10:45 AM - 11:15 AM)

9. George Mason Memorial – (5 min walk, 11:20 AM - 11:35 AM)

10. Thomas Jefferson Memorial – (10 min walk, 11:45 AM - 12:15 PM)

11. Washington Monument (Go up if possible) – (15 min walk, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM)

    
    

Washington memorial from a side street

Final Thoughts:

This route is fast and efficient—a true marathon of sightseeing. Your calves will be burning, your feet will be sore, and you may start questioning your life choices, but you did it!

You’ve now seen (at least from the outside) some of the most iconic attractions in Washington, D.C.. Pat yourself on the back, grab a celebratory drink, and pop an Ibuprofen— you’ve earned it!

Washington DC Itinerary: A Leisurely National Mall Walking Tour

• Our Starting Point: Hampton Inn Washington, D.C./White House (where we stayed)

• Total Walking Distance: ~10+ miles over two days

• Total Time: ~22+ hours over two days

  
  

Extra for This Route:

This route is for those who want to take their time, soak in every detail, and not feel rushed. Whether it’s reading plaques, sitting at memorials for a quiet moment, or stepping inside museums for a deeper dive, this itinerary is about experiencing the National Mall rather than just checking it off a list.

Capitol Police on horseback

A Quick Tip for This Route:

Since you’ll be out exploring for a long time, it’s a great idea to pack a picnic or meal prep instead of relying on food vendors. There are several grassy areas and benches along the National Mall, perfect for a break. Local grocery stores like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods are great spots to grab sandwiches and snacks before starting your walk.

Another bonus? The National Mall is open 24/7, and once the sun sets, many monuments and memorials light up beautifully at night. If you're staying out late, keep a flashlight or use your phone’s light for darker walkways, especially near the Tidal Basin. This itinerary starts mid-morning and finishes at the Lincoln Memorial for sunset, making it one of the most scenic ways to end the day.

Day 1: Exploring the National Mall at a Relaxed Pace

1. White House (Front) – (5 min walk, 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM)

   • Take your time walking around Lafayette Square and admiring the architecture.

2. White House (Back) – (5 min walk, 10:40 AM - 11:00 AM)

   • Enjoy a quiet moment at The Ellipse, away from crowds.

3. National Museum of African American History & Culture (Exterior & Optional Inside Visit) – (7 min walk, 11:10 AM - 12:30 PM)

4. Lunch Break (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM)

   • Picnic at the National Mall: Head toward the Washington Monument or Constitution Gardens for a relaxing meal.

   • Check out a nearby café or museum restaurant if you didn't bring food.

5. Washington Monument (Walk Around & Optional Ride to the Top) – (5 min walk, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM)

   • If you planned, take the elevator to the top for panoramic views.

6. National Museum of American History (Inside Visit Optional) – (5 min walk, 2:20 PM - 3:30 PM)

7. National Museum of Natural History (Inside Visit Optional) – (3 min walk, 3:40 PM - 4:30 PM)

8. National Gallery of Art (Exterior & Sculpture Garden) – (10 min walk, 4:45 PM - 5:30 PM)

9. Dinner Break (5:30 PM - 6:30 PM)

   • Option: Pick up food and eat near the Capitol Reflecting Pool.

10. U.S. Capitol (Exterior & Optional Visitor Center Tour) – (15 min walk, 6:40 PM - 7:30 PM)

11. Supreme Court (Exterior Only, Evening View) – (5 min walk, 7:40 PM - 8:00 PM)

12. U.S. Botanic Garden (Evening Walk Through the Outdoor Garden) – (8 min walk, 8:10 PM - 8:30 PM)

13. Bartholdi Fountain & Gardens – (3 min walk, 8:40 PM - 9:00 PM)

    
    

Dwight Eisenhower Office Building

Day 2: Memorials & Scenic Walks

1. Constitution Gardens (Peaceful Morning Start) – (5 min walk, 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM)

2. Vietnam Veterans Memorial – (5 min walk, 10:10 AM - 10:40 AM)

3. Korean War Memorial – (5 min walk, 10:50 AM - 11:20 AM)

4. JFK Hockey Fields (to See the Horses) – (7 min walk, 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM)

5. West Potomac Park (Walk Along the Water) – (10 min walk, 12:10 PM - 12:40 PM)

6. Lunch Break (12:40 PM - 1:30 PM)

7. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial – (10 min walk, 1:40 PM - 2:15 PM)

8. Japanese Lantern – (5 min walk, 2:25 PM - 2:45 PM)

9. Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial – (5 min walk, 2:55 PM - 3:30 PM)

10. George Mason Memorial – (5 min walk, 3:40 PM - 4:00 PM)

11. Thomas Jefferson Memorial – (10 min walk, 4:10 PM - 4:45 PM)

12. Reflecting Pool Walk (Golden Hour Views) – (10 min walk, 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM)

13. World War II Memorial – (10 min walk, 5:40 PM - 6:00 PM)

14. Snack / Break Stop (6:00 PM - 6:30 PM)

15. Washington Monument (Final Stop Before Sunset) – (15 min walk, 6:45 PM - 7:15 PM)

16. Lincoln Memorial (Sunset & Evening View) – (10 min walk, 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM)

    • One of the most breathtaking ways to end your trip.

    • The monuments light up beautifully at night.

      
      

Lincoln Memorial at Dusk (told you it looks great at sunset)

Final Thoughts On a Self Guided Walking Tour of Washington DC:

No matter which route you take—fastest or longest—you’ll experience the best of the National Mall in a single day. This itinerary is designed for walkers, which is why you won’t see Arlington National Cemetery included. While it’s an incredibly historic and moving site, it requires crossing the Potomac River, making it better suited for a separate trip or a day when you have more time.

Elijah in front of the U.S Capitol Building

One of the most important things to keep in mind when visiting D.C.’s most popular landmarks is that some attractions require reservations. If you plan to go inside the Washington Monument, visit the National Museum of African American History & Culture, or tour the U.S. Capitol, be sure to book tickets ahead of time to secure your spot. While some places offer same-day tickets, they are often limited and sell out quickly.

The National Mall is open 24/7, meaning you can explore late into the night if you want to enjoy the monuments under the glow of the city lights. If you’re staying out late, bring a flashlight or use your phone’s light, as some areas, especially near the Tidal Basin and Constitution Gardens, can be dimly lit.

Whether you blaze through the Mall in a single afternoon or take a slow, immersive approach, you’ll walk away (probably sore, but satisfied) with a deeper appreciation for the history and beauty of Washington, D.C.

Let us know in the comments which itinerary you try!