Historical 2 or 3-Day Tour of Washington DC
September 10, 2025
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Historical Tour of Washington DC
As a family we decided to visit Washington DC on our way back from New York. Walking through the streets of Washington DC felt like stepping into the pages of history that we once learned about in school. From visiting the iconic White House to the towering Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, where every corner of this area tells a story of America’s past and present. Pause in history and pain as you explore the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, then climb the stairs of the US Library of Congress and stare in awe of the US Capitol.
You will also find some unforgettable dining options from the fresh flavors along the vibrant Wharf to the timeless elegance of Old Ebbitt Grill, one of the city’s most beloved restaurants that is worth the stop.
Spend two days here exploring this area and learning about the history of this great country!
In this guide you will find
2- or 3-day tour itinerary
Tips for visiting Washington DC
Other guided tour options
Best places to eat
Best places to stay
2-Day tour
Day 1: The White House, Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington Monument, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial
Day 2: Franklin D Roosevelt Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Wharf, US Library of Congress, US State Capitol, United States Botanic Garden Conservatory
3-Day tour
Day 1: The White House, Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington Monument, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial
Day 2: Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Wharf, Library of Congress, Supreme Court of the United States, United States Capitol, United States Botanic Garden Conservatory
Day 3: Smithsonian Institution Building, National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of The American Indian, National Gallery of Art, National Archives Museum, National Museum of Natural History, Ford’s Theatre
Day 1
White House
The White House, an official residence and workplace of the President of the United States, is a recognizable building with its white facade and grand columns. You can stand along Pennsylvania Avenue to take pictures and admire this famous building that dates back to the 1800’s. Public tours require advanced arrangements, but viewing the White House from the outside still offers a sense of history and significance. The large black fence and security are always present, reminding you of the importance of America’s leadership.
Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington DC
Visit Old Ebbitt Grill next door at 675 15th St NW, Washington DC
11-minute walk to the Washington Monument
Washington Monument
The Washington Monument rises 555 feet into the sky and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Washington DC. This monument was built in honor of George Washington, the nation’s first president. The marble obelisk stands tall at the center of the National Mall with views of the US Capitol and Lincoln Memorial.
You can walk the grounds and get up close to the monument and be amazed at its grandeur size, or head inside for an amazing view of the surrounding area.
Address: 2 5th St NW, Washington DC
Tickets: Timed reservations are required. You can reserve tickets online for $1 up to 30-days in advance or get them free at the Washington Monument Lodge 15th Street near the Washington Monument at the day you plan to visit. Line to get the tickets can be long. Ticket distribution opens at 8:45am.
Hours: 9am to 5pm daily
6-minute walk to the Holocaust Memorial Museum
Explore the monuments and memorials at night in this open top guided tour. What a beautiful way to see the national landmarks.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum was one of the most powerful experiences in Washington DC. From the moment you step inside, you will be surrounded by personal stories of those who lived through one of history’s darkest times.
The museum’s exhibits take you on an emotional journey, through photographs, diaries, artifacts, and video testimonies. You will hear of the struggles, heartbreaks and resiliency of millions of men, women, and children. See personal belongings and the faces of survivors who share their unimaginable suffering and courage. It was hard to hear the stories and the lasting impact it had on the survivors. So humbling.
Address: 100 Raoul Wallenberg Place SW, Washington DC
Hours: 10am to 5:30pm
Tickets: Timed tickets are required for the permanent exhibition and include a $1 transaction fee. Free entry into the rest of the museum and no advanced ticket required. We were able to walk right in without a timed ticket.
Visitor Center: stop by and grab a souvenir before you leave
13-minute walk to the World War II Memorial
World War II Memorial
The World War II Memorial is a beautiful place to reflect on the sacrifices made by many. This memorial features a large fountain at the center surrounded by 56 granite pillars, each representing a US state or territory that contributed to the war effort. We enjoyed walking around to find our home states and snapping a photo. Find bronze wreaths, inscriptions, and quiet areas to reflect on the courage of the American people during World War II.
Address: 1750 Independence Ave. SW, Washington DC
Hours: open 24 hours a day
Free to visit
3-minute walk to the Reflecting Pool and an 11-miunte walk to the Lincoln Memorial
Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool
Spend some time walking along the Reflecting Pool that leads to the Lincoln Memorial, another iconic landmark in Washington DC. Stretching nearly half a mile, the Reflecting Pool beautifully mirrors the Washington Monument and the surrounding trees, creating a beautiful view.
At the far end stands the Lincoln Memorial, the towering columns and inviting steps, bring you inside where you will be greeted by the 19-foot statue of Abraham Lincoln. He is a symbol of leadership and unity during a difficult time for the nation.
The walls are inscribed with his most famous speeches and the Gettysburg Address which reminds us of our freedom. On your way out of the memorial, find another amazing view of the Reflecting Pool and the National Mall.
Address: 2 Lincoln Memorial Circle, NW, Washington DC
Hours: open 24 hours a day
Free to visit
Other nearby landmarks for day-1
Korean War Veterans Memorial
District of Columbia War Memorial
Martin Luther King JR Memorial
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Day 2
Franklin D Roosevelt Memorial
The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is a unique memorial spanning 7.5 acres along the Tidal Basin. This walking tour takes you through Roosevelt’s four terms in office, with each section representing a different era of his presidency. This is more like an outdoor museum where you will find waterfalls, stone walls, gardens, statues, and inscriptions of his speeches. Here you will also find a bronze statue of Eleanor Roosevelt, the only First Lady honored in a presidential memorial.
Address: 400 West Basin Drive SW, Washington DC
Hours: open 24 hours a day
Free to visit
14-minute walk to Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a quieter location on the Tidal Basin, surrounded by water and cherry blossom trees. Designed with classic grand white columns and a domed roof. Inside a 19-foot bronze statue of Jefferson stands tall, gazing toward the White House. Inscriptions of his famous writings and inserts from the Declaration of Independence, line the interior walls to remind you of liberty and equality. This location was peaceful providing the perfect place to reflect on the memorial of a Founding Father.
Address: 16 E Basin Dr SW, Washington DC
Hours: open 24 hours a day
Free to visit
20-minute walk to the Wharf
Municipal Fish Market - The Wharf
The Wharf is a lively waterfront destination in Washington DC. Located on the Potomac River, this location offers something for everyone from shopping, a wide variety of restaurants, live music, and scenic spots with water views. You can enjoy fresh seafood, international flavors, or sweet treats as you enjoy the atmosphere.
From here you can also rent kayaks, boats, hop on a water taxi, or stroll the pier and watch the boats glide by. Seasonally you will find festivals, concerts, ice skating rink, fitness classes, and other seasonal events making this the perfect place to visit year-round.
Next door you can find the Municipal Fish Market, the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the United States. Dating back to 1805, where locals and visitors line up for fresh oysters, crab cakes, and shrimp. Grab a bite to eat as you stroll the pier.
Address: 760 Main Ave SW, Washington DC
Hours: vary by business
The Wharf is free to visit
35-minute walk to the Library of Congress or you can Uber to this location which is what we did
Library of Congress - Court of Neptune Fountain
Visit the Library of Congress where you will be greeted by the Court of Neptune Fountain where you will find dramatic sculptures featuring the Roman god of the sea surrounded by the sea horses, tritons, and other mythical figures. The water flowing from the figures creates a beautiful landmark of Capitol Hill.
Inside the Library of Congress, you are surrounded by breathtaking architecture, ornate marble columns, colorful mosaics, and detailed murals. You can explore exhibits with rare items from Thomas Jefferson’s personal library, the Gutenberg Bible, and original drafts of historic American documents. The Main Reading Room is a large space with a dome and elegant desks arranged in a perfect circle. Librarians are available for research questions if needed.
Address: 10 First St SE, Washington DC
Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10am to 5pm, Thursday 10am to 8pm, Closed Sunday and Monday
Free timed entry tickets are available online.
The US Capitol is located across the street from the Library of Congress. Use crosswalks for safety.
United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is an iconic symbol of America and a meeting place for Congress. The outside features a grand dome rising high above Capitol Hill with wide steps, and a beautifully landscaped lawn.
Take a guided tour which begins at the Capitol Visitor Center and takes you through some of the most historic spaces, including the Rotunda, Crypt, National Statuary Hall filled with statues from every state, and other areas full of history.
The Capitol Visitor Center hours: 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Saturday. Closed for major US holidays.
Capitol Visitor Center is free to visit
Reservations are recommended and it is free to take a guided tour of the Capitol
9-minute walk to the United States Botanic Garden
United States Botanic Garden - Conservatory
The United States Botanic Garden is a peaceful place in the middle of the city. Established in 1820, it is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the country and showcases plants from around the world. Step into the Conservatory, a glass-domed building that feels like stepping into a lush, living museum. You can wander through themed room such as the tropical rainforest where you will walk under the canopy walk of trees and feel the mist of the moisture in the air or visit the desert room filled with cacti and succulents.
Outside, the National Garden the Bartholdi Park show seasonal flowers, fountains, and a seating area. You will find a kid’s area where they can help plant and water the flowers. There are staff wandering around to answer any questions you may have. My son was able to find his favorite plant the sensitive plant and was excited to see how it would fold inward when touched.
I was surprised at how much we enjoyed this Botanic Garden.
Address: 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington DC
Hours: 10am to 5pm. Closed on Christmas Day
Free to visit
Optional Day-3 tour
For an optional third day in Washington DC, you can visit some incredible museums. Learn about history, hands-on exhibits, powerful displays of culture, masterpieces spanning centuries, and towering dinosaur skeletons. End your day with a visit to Ford’s Theare, where President Lincoln was assassinated or take the guided tour below.
Smithsonian Institution Building
National Air and Space Museum
National Museum of The American Indian
National Gallery of Art
National Archives Museum
National Museum of Natural History
Ford’s Theatre
Take this guided tour to learn about Lincoln’s final hours while viewing historic buildings and hearing untold stories.
Places to eat in Washington DC
Washington DC isn’t just monuments and museums; you can also find famous restaurants with unforgettable food.
Old Ebbitt Grill
Our favorite restaurant was Old Ebbitt Grill, across from the White House. Founded in 1856, it’s the oldest saloon in Washington and has been a gathering place for presidents, politicians, and celebrities. Inside the restaurant you are captivated by the ornate wood paneling, antique gas lamps, and Victorian inspired decor. The menu is equally impressive, featuring fresh oysters from the raw bar, American classics, and seasonal delights. You can imagine sitting in the same spot as one of the many presidents may have sat providing a must-visit when in Washington DC. This place is truly one of the best restaurants we have ever eaten at, and the food was phenomenal. Highly recommend!!
Address: 675 15th St SW, Washington DC
Hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 2am, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 2am
Met Cafe the Venue
Met Cafe was recommended by many bloggers, but I wasn’t impressed. Maybe it was the time of day we went, looking for breakfast, but it was just a salad bar and a menu to choose from at the counter. Although the menu items might have been good, we chose not to stay. There was plenty of eating space to gather and restrooms for convenience. If you need a quiet place to relax and grab a quick meal, then this would be the place to visit.
Address: 1750 New York Ave NW, Washington DC
Greenberry’s Coffee Co
We found this cute coffee shop, Greenberry’s Coffee Co, nearby the White House that we stopped in and had breakfast. They had a large menu selection, and the smoothie I had was fabulous. We tried a few different menu items and each item met our expectations. You can find sandwiches, burritos, and delicious looking sweets. Greenberry’s only purchases the finest coffee beans, and all of their coffee is roasted in Charlottesville Virginia, and they strive to bring you only the best coffee flavors produced by their master roaster. They have 8 locations throughout Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC where you can try many of their bold coffee’s.
Address: 430 17th St NW, Washington DC
Hours: Monday to Friday 7am to 4pm
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Gordon Ramsay’s Fish and Chips
Our final food stop was to try Gordon Ramsay’s Fish and Chips, and we were not disappointed! Find crispy menu items from cod, shrimp, chicken or lobster. Each menu item is specifically handcrafted by Gordon Ramsay and the multiple sauce options were to die for. So good!! I definitely recommend you try out this English inspired restaurant. Can’t make it to Washington DC? He also has locations in New York, Orlando, and Las Vegas.
Address: The Wharf DC, 665 Wharf Street, S.W., Suite 730, Washington DC
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 11am to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am to 11pm
Other popular historical restaurants in Washington DC
Ben’s Chili Bowl - open since 195, Ben’s is known for its legendary half-smokes and its tie to the civil rights era.
Martin’s Tavern - located in Georgetown, Martin’s has been serving food since 1933. This is a famous location where John F Kennedy gathered to eat.
Founding Farmers - American farmhouse style cooking and made from scratch dishes.
The Hamilton - Close to the National Mall, The Hamilton combines lives music with eclectic dining
Tips for visiting Washington DC
Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking
Parking is limited so using public transportation or Uber is easier
Some attractions require timed-entry tickets so plan ahead
Library of Congress, Washington Monument, Holocaust Memorial Museum, US Capitol tour
Bags are likely to be checked when touring federal buildings so pack lightly
DC offers many free concerts, festivals, and seasonal events so plan accordingly
Consider using Big Bus Tours to get around the city easily with multiple drop off locations
Take a guided tour locally or to discover surrounding areas
Check out this relevant blog post: A First-Timer’s Guide to Niagara Falls State Park in New York
Where to stay in Washington DC
During our visit to Washington DC, we stayed near the White House area. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Washington Central/White House and this hotel was the perfect location and within walking distance to many of the attractions. Inside you will find views of the city, Johnny Rockets restaurant, roof top pool, secured parking, and welcoming staff. From the moment I walked in the staff was very friendly and knowledgeable about their services. The room was clean and sitting at the rooftop pool that looked over the city was breathtaking. I would definitely stay here again.
Address: 1501 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington DC
17-minute walk to the White House
Other recommended hotels located within walking distance to many attractions.
Journey of the past, present and future
Spending two or three days in Washington DC offers a journey through America’s history. From standing in front of the White House to walking the National Mall and exploring museums and memorials, where every step connects you to the stories of how our nation was formed. Discover knowledge through the museums and hear the stories of those who will touch your heart forever at the Holocaust Memorial Museum. Washington DC will remind you of the sacrifices and the dedication of many who have served our country. This is definitely a trip worth taking with your family to have a deeper understanding of the past, present and future. RIP #charliekirk
Any questions about this area? Comment below.
Enjoy the journey,
Meet the author: Jennifer
I am a girl who loves to travel and enjoys sharing expert family travel advice. I am a content creator and influencer on Instagram with years of travel experience and provide readers with advice, tips, and details on adventurous travel and tips on saving money while boondocking or traveling across the US. You can find me dreaming up our next epic vacation or outside exploring natural landscapes. I am a fearless roadtripper who isn’t afraid to explore new and off the path adventures.
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Walking through the streets of Washington DC felt like stepping into the pages of history. From visiting the iconic White House to the towering Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, where every corner of this area tells a story of America’s past and present. Pause in history and pain as you explore the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, then climb the stairs of the US Library of Congress and stare in awe of the US Capitol.