Washington DC - Smithsonian, The White House and The Hill. But wait, there is so much more to the capital city. The energy is infectious, you spot famous monuments at every corner and oh the food! A lot of itineraries offer you a one-day tour of DC from New York. But spend at least 2 days in the capital city to really soak it in.
From Jefferson Memorial
Getting around in Washington DC
The metro isn't as well connected here as in NYC, but still very much functional. Your best bet is not just Google Maps, but the road signages which make it very easy to navigate. Especially the National Mall which you can cover walking. The metro is pretty easy to use, the service is slower on the weekends, so it is best to check here.The bus, however, offers a more point to point service and is absolutely free. Check the schedule here.
Things to Eat in Washington DC
Juicy fresh lobsters, to tacos to kill for, DC food scene is absolutely thriving. The freshest doughnuts at Astro Doughnuts, and fresh tacos at District Taco, while you walk towards the White House, cannot be missed. Don't forget to chomp on some delicious crab cakes for dinner. Read the 5 must-haves in DC here.
The National Mall
The National Mall covers all the major monuments in the city. From the Washington Monument to Lincoln Memorial. And all the monuments are free of charge and open 24×7. The best time to visit and tread through all the monuments here is early morning. Fewer crowds and more photo opportunities. You can check all about the National Mall trail here. You can cover most of it by foot, however, the White House and Capitol Hill are a little further down the Mall and metro/ train is recommended.
Smithsonian Museums
There are 19 museums, galleries, garden and zoo that come under the Smithsonian hood. Spanning Washington DC and even New York. All but the Cooper-Hewitt Museum are absolutely free of charge. Since there are so many of the Smithsonians, it is best that you choose the ones that pique your interest most and visit one or two.
National Portrait Gallery
Although the Portrait Gallery falls under the Smithsonian, it deserves a special mention. The Portrait Gallery holds the only other collection of all the American Presidents till Obama other than the White House. Obama's being easily the most popular portrait. From the women's right to vote to American origins take away the first floor. The third floor also called The Great Hall holds the influential Americans of the twentieth century. And yes, you will find Michelle Obama's portrait by Amy Sherald.
National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is located along Constitution Ave, with a distant view of the Capitol. The entrance from Constitution Avenue is not only more majestic but also gives you entrance to the sculpture garden. The courtyard and the Garden Cafe both hold much of the romance of the gallery. They often have very interesting exhibitions, I visited during "Verrochio - the sculptor of the Renaissance of Florence". With also early works from his more famous apprentice Leonardo da Vinci, it was a very beautiful throwback to art classes. And probably a warm-up to all the art that awaited in NYC. If you don't choose to dine at the Garden Cafe, there is an outlet of Luke's Lobster just two streets away.
DC Waterfront - National Harbour
Take a break from all the art and culture, and simply unwind at the National Harbour. The National Harbour is where the states of Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC intersect. With luxury hotels and resorts, The Capital Ferris wheel and the Waterfront. Highly recommend being on the waterfront at sunset. The orange hues and pretty darn dreamy. There is something for everyone. Shop, dine at the finest restaurants or grab food on the go and catch a free movie. (<3)
MGM Casino
And finally, make a bet or two at the MGM casino. Entry is free of cost but carry your passport as a valid proof of identification. The vibe is super cool, play a game of poker or simply make bets at the slot machines.
