The US capital, where the National Mall links the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial past monuments and museums; most Smithsonian museums are free, so sightseeing costs little.
Cherry trees bloom around the Tidal Basin — also the busiest time. source
September–October
The heat eases, making Mall walks and museum days comfortable. source
Weather: Late March–early April cherry-blossom season and September–October are best; July–August is hot and humid, and winter can bring snow. source
Times to avoid: The Washington Monument needs a timed ticket and sometimes closes for elevator work; check ahead. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Washington, D.C.
Smithsonian museums The national museums on the Mall — natural history, air and space, American history — mostly free; some, like Air and Space, need free timed passes. source
Lincoln Memorial and the National Mall The great park from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, explored on foot. source
National Archives Museum See the original Declaration of Independence and Constitution; admission is free. source
Washington Monument The obelisk at the heart of the Mall with a city-view deck; tickets are free, with a small online booking fee. source
Where to stay in Washington, D.C.
Downtown / Penn Quarter
Close to the museums and Metro stations, good for walking.
Dupont Circle
A lively area of restaurants and cafés on the Red Line.
What to eat in Washington, D.C.
Half-Smoke — Smoked half-pork, half-beef sausage topped with chili
Mumbo Sauce Wings — Fried wings with sweet-tangy red mumbo sauce
Chesapeake Blue Crab — Blue crab from the nearby Chesapeake Bay
Washington, D.C. tips and things to watch out for
Washington, D.C. travel tips
Menu prices exclude the 10% meals tax and tip; adding 18–20% for tip is usual. source
Airport to city: Reagan National connects straight to the Metro, and Dulles is on the Silver Line; fares vary by distance. source
Good to know in United States
In the US, sales tax may be added to the displayed price depending on the place and product. Check a restaurant menu for extra charges before ordering. source
In LA, both public transit and ride-hailing are available. Check Metro routes and ride-hail pickup points before moving between sights. source
Watch out for in United States
Car break-ins are common; never leave bags or anything visible in a parked car. source
In unfamiliar parts of the US, avoid walking alone through quiet areas, especially at night. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Washington, D.C. are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in United States.
Washington, D.C. attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.
National Archives Museum (free): Free
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (free): Free