Insiders Share the Ultimate Weekend Experience in Washington, D.C.

You could spend a lifetime in Washington, D.C., and still uncover new wonders. Having lived here for 15 years, I continually discover hidden treasures. Established in 1791, the city is famous for its prestigious cultural landmarks, but it also boasts vibrant neighborhoods, a dynamic arts scene, and award-winning international cuisine. This itinerary, crafted for a Thursday-to-Sunday getaway, highlights how to maximize four days in the nation's capital.

Thursday: Explore museums from the National Mall to Penn Quarter

A must-see in D.C. is the Library of Congress (open Tuesday–Saturday; remember to reserve free timed-entry tickets). Modeled after the Paris Opera House, the Great Hall dazzles with marble columns and mosaics. You can gaze at the iconic Main Reading Room, where scholars sift through materials from a collection of 164 million items—making it the largest library in the world. Highlights include Thomas Jefferson’s personal collection of 6,487 volumes that laid the library’s foundation.

Right in front of the Library of Congress stands the U.S. Capitol, which opens up to the expansive National Mall. Along this two-mile stretch, ten of the Smithsonian Institution’s 21 museums await, each spectacular and offering free admission daily; choose one to delve into for an hour or two. Children particularly enjoy the Air and Space Museum and the Museum of Natural History, while the Hirshhorn’s engaging interactive art displays are a treat for art enthusiasts.

For a breathtaking view of the entire mall and city, Chef Concierge Robert Watson from the Willard InterContinental Hotel suggests visiting the Old Post Office Tower. With its 270-foot-high observation deck, this tower is open daily and doesn't require tickets, unlike the Washington Monument. “The view here is superior since you have a 360-degree observation tower with no obstructions,” Watson shares.

Just beyond the National Archives—where history enthusiasts can admire original copies of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution—lies Teaism, my favorite lunch spot near the mall. This Asian-inspired local chain boasts three teahouses in D.C. serving mouthwatering bento boxes and noodle soups.

Head a few blocks north through Penn Quarter to the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA), open Tuesday–Sunday with an entry fee of $16. Recently reopened in October 2023 after a two-year renovation, artist Deb Almond expresses her excitement: “As a female artist, having a national museum is incredible.” Almond, known for her striking feminist and protest art under her label Candid Almond, appreciates NMWA's focus on often-overlooked aspects of women’s lives, highlighting female Indigenous and minority voices. “The atmosphere here feels distinctly different,” she notes.

Before dinner, swing by the nearby National Portrait Gallery. It’s my favorite Smithsonian, staying open later than other museums (until 7 p.m.). The presidential portraits are a must-see, and don’t miss the stunning annual orchid exhibition in the glass-covered Kogod Courtyard (Feb. 16–April 28, 2024).

The Penn Quarter area boasts the finest dining options in D.C., according to Dewayne Wright, general manager of the Riggs Washington D.C. hotel. “Here, you’ll discover Michelin-starred restaurants alongside local favorites,” he says. Wright recommends Moon Rabbit for contemporary Vietnamese dishes and Rasika, featuring modern Indian cuisine by James Beard Award-winning chef Vikram Sunderam. You can also find several restaurants by celebrated D.C. chef José Andrés in Penn Quarter, including Jaleo and Oyamel.

Friday: Discover stunning monuments, gardens, and the arts

Start your morning at the west end of the National Mall—the earlier, the better. “There’s something truly enchanting about sitting on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and witnessing the sunrise over the National Mall,” says photographer Kelly Paras, who captures the city's essence for her shop Flip Flop Caravan. She showcases her photography and vintage home goods at pop-up artisan markets and at Femme Fatale in Cleveland Park, featuring products from over 60 women-owned local businesses.

One of the steps at the Lincoln Memorial bears an inscription marking the site where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963. My favorite spot to visit during cherry blossom season in late March is the national memorial dedicated to this great civil rights leader, located just a 10-minute walk away. The pathways around the memorial are adorned with trees, forming a beautiful blossom canopy above.

Pick up a filling breakfast bagel from the West End location of Call Your Mother Deli, a beloved local chain, before heading to explore Russian imperial treasures at Hillwood (open Tuesday–Sunday, entry $16). Known as “D.C.’s Downton Abbey,” this estate is one of the grandest in the city.

“This museum is housed in a stunning mansion that was once the home of philanthropist Marjorie Merriweather Post,” notes Wright. “The estate features 25 immaculate acres filled with multiple gardens and one of the finest orchid collections in the country.”

For more splendor and beautiful gardens, visit the Washington National Cathedral, located less than a 10-minute drive from Hillwood. Then, take a cab another 10 minutes down Wisconsin Avenue to Georgetown, the oldest neighborhood in D.C. Established in 1751, it was already a thriving port town on the Potomac River when the District of Columbia was founded 40 years later. Enjoy a walk along the waterfront and indulge in dinner at Fiola Mare (reservations recommended), renowned for its seafood and Potomac views. Frequently visited by world leaders and A-listers, it’s a hot spot where you might find Barack Obama, Emmanuel Macron, or Meryl Streep dining nearby.

After dinner, stroll along the Rock Creek Trail as it follows the Potomac, and ascend the pedestrian bridge to The Reach, the innovative extension of the Kennedy Center featuring intimate performance spaces and diverse cultural programming. “The Reach is incredibly accessible,” shares Graciano Petersen, who has performed there with the D.C.-based Caribbean dance group Soka Tribe. “It often offers free dance lessons, art exhibitions, yoga sessions, and you can even catch rehearsals. It’s a fantastic way to connect with those passionate about the arts.”

Saturday: Discover the Arboretum and Anacostia

Catch a cab or Uber to explore another quadrant of the city—Northeast—and arrive at the National Arboretum, a sprawling 451-acre sanctuary. “The arboretum never fails to impress me, especially in spring,” shares Franziska Boelke, head concierge at the Hay-Adams hotel. “The plant life is extraordinary, extending far beyond our renowned cherry blossom trees. It features a bonsai museum, and atop a hill, you’ll find the National Capitol Columns—magnificent Corinthian structures of sandstone that originally supported the Capitol Building when it was constructed in 1828.”

Next, grab a bike from D.C.’s bike-sharing program, Capital Bikeshare (with racks available throughout the city), and enjoy a ride along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. This scenic path runs parallel to the river, passing attractions like the Anacostia Park Roller Skating Pavilion, managed by the National Park Service. A favorite among locals, the rink offers free skate rentals in the summer, with DJs spinning music on weekends.

Upon reaching the historic Anacostia neighborhood, take a break for lunch at DCity Smokehouse. This cherished barbecue spot is known for its award-winning brisket and ribs, as well as half-smokes—spicy smoked sausages that are a signature dish of D.C.

Afterward, head to Cedar Hill, a national historic site (open Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays) that served as the residence of orator and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Rangers offer guided tours of the grand main house, and you can take a glimpse into the small cabin Douglass used as his writing studio. “The house sits atop a hill that overlooks both the Anacostia River and D.C.,” notes Paras. “You’ll enjoy some of the finest views of the D.C. skyline.”

Cross the river via the 11th Street Bridge and park your bike at The Yards, a beautifully transformed waterfront area adjacent to the Nationals Park baseball stadium, featuring green spaces, boardwalks, and splash-friendly water features for kids. Dining options are plentiful; I particularly enjoy the crisp rosés and small plates (don’t miss the Maryland blue crab–stuffed arancini) at District Winery. For a taste of the city’s nightlife and its diverse live music venues, take a cab to the H Street corridor, or venture back to the Northwest quadrant to U Street (renowned for its jazz history) or Adams Morgan.

Sunday: Explore the market(s)

Indulge in a relaxing Sunday brunch at Belga Café (reservations recommended), a beloved Capitol Hill spot for 20 years renowned for its Belgian fare. Chef Bart Vandaele, a native of Belgium, showcased his talents on Bravo’s Top Chef. Afterward, stroll past charming rowhouses to Eastern Market, which recently celebrated its 150th anniversary last November. Open every day except Mondays, the market hall bustles with merchants offering fresh meats, seafood, cheeses, and baked goods, while on weekends, farmers sell seasonal produce and artisan stalls line the streets. It’s a prime location to find D.C.-themed souvenirs, like artistic prints of monuments or cherry blossom-infused soaps.

Take the metro to the Union Market district, which exudes a distinctly different atmosphere from the refined Eastern Market. “Having once been an old warehouse area, it’s now home to many hidden bars and restaurants,” explains Almond. “It gives off a speakeasy vibe.”

The main market building features a gourmet food hall showcasing local delights like D.C. Dosa, TaKorean, and District Doughnut. Grab a snack to enjoy on the Astroturf-covered rooftop, where you can engage in lawn games while taking in city views. Next, explore the shops: the district includes Shop Made in D.C., which exclusively offers small-batch products from local artisans, including jewelry, art, and accessories. “It’s a great initiative,” says Almond, whose artwork has appeared in several Shop Made pop-ups around the city. “Artists can apply to sell their work there, and Shop Made returns a percentage of the sales to them. It truly supports artists.”

Continue the theme of local flavors by enjoying Ethiopian cuisine for dinner. The D.C. area is home to the largest Ethiopian community outside Africa, boasting many excellent restaurants. I recently dined with friends at the incredible Chercher on Ninth Street. Conclude your evening at nearby Blagden Alley, a charming brick-lined spot filled with fascinating venues like Michelin-starred The Dabney. Be sure to try the Send My Regards cocktail, crafted with Virginia-Highland Whisky, and raise a glass to the city.