Do you have 24 hours in DC?
You’re in luck because 24 hours provides just enough time to explore the charming neighborhood of Georgetown, visit famous museums, and experience the famous monuments glowing across Capitol Hill at night.
I have visited DC at least 5 times and discover something new every time I visit.
On a 1 Day DC Itinerary, you can visit Georgetown, National Mall Museums, and National Mall Monuments, and more!
1 Day DC Itinerary
1. Georgetown
Beginning the day in Georgetown ensures you can spend at least a bit of time exploring outside of Capitol Hill.
Georgetown is a historic, quaint neighborhood located just over two miles, or a ten-minute drive, from DC’s National Mall.
I am a strong believer that neighborhoods make up the culture of the city, and having only 24 hours in America’s capital shouldn’t stop you from that!
It also makes for an amazing stop on a DC girls weeekend!
⭐Highly Rated DC Tours
Coffee Republic
Start your morning in DC with breakfast and coffee at Coffee Republic.
I love this small coffee shop right in the heart of Georgetown! It has a great ambiance, and they have some fun seasonal flavors.
Time: 20 minutes ⏐ 🕑 Weekend Hours: 7:30am-5:00pm ⏐ 🕑 Weekday Hours: 7:00am-6:30pm ⏐ Website ⏐
Alternate Breakfast Options in Georgetown:
- Yellow Georgetown
- Janti Cafe
- Baker’s Daughter
Wander Cobblestone Roads
Georgetown is one of my favorite neighborhoods in DC thanks to its red, cobblestone roads.
Be on the lookout for street lamps that are lit with a candle-lit flame!
You can alternatively explore quaint cobblestone roads in Old Town Alexandria.
Read Next: Best Things to Do in Old Town Alexandria
Georgetown Cupcakes
Treat yourself to a mid-morning snack at TLC’s very own Georgetown Cupcakes.
While this is absolutely, without a doubt one of the most touristy things to do in DC, it’s worth it!
Plus, it’s a fun way to check off one of the iconic attractions in DC.
I earned my bragging rights with two cupcakes: Oreo Cheesecake and Chocolate Ganache Surprise.
Time: 10 minutes ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 10:00am-9:00pm. Closes at 8:00pm on Saturdays ⏐ Website ⏐
C&O Canal
Enjoy one of the best outdoor activities in DC with a leisurely walk along the C&O Canal.
This historical waterway stretches for hundreds of miles, but you can easily take a short stroll. The historical canal was once a lifeline for transporting goods.
Other C&O Options:
- Rent a bike
- Kayak the Potomac River
- Take a guided cruise on the C&O Canal
Renting a bike or boat might make more sense if you have 2 days in DC or longer, but this is entirely up to your preference!
⭐Highly Rated DC Hotels
2. National Mall: Museums
Run, don’t walk, to the incredible FREE museums of DC!
That’s right, the majority of the museums in America’s capital are totally free of entry.
United States Botanical Garden
This museum in DC is absolutely one of the most beautiful things to experience in DC.
Conveniently situated within the National Mall, it’s a breeze to combine a trip to the United States Botanical Garden with other exciting activities on Capitol Hill.
It just so happens to be the most incredible botanical garden I’ve ever visited! (And trust me, I’ve been to a total of… 5).
Spanning an impressive 85,000 square feet across two levels, it’s truly massive!
Not to mention, their outdoor gardens are one of the best outdoor activities in DC.
It’s like stepping into a whole new world!
Time: 1-2 hours ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 10:00am-5:00pm ⏐💲Price: Free ⏐
DC Planning Guides:
- Hiking Near DC
- Non Touristy Things To Do in DC
- DC Solo Travel Tips
Hirshhorn Museum
Hirschhorn Museum is known for modern masterpieces and experimental art!
Spend at least one hour exploring the museum’s extensive collection.
It includes painting, sculpture, and mixed-media installations from the late 19th century to present day.
Time: 1 hour ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 10:00am-5:30pm ⏐💲Price: Free ⏐
Smithsonian Complex
The Smithsonian Complex gives Hogwarts vibes! (It’s the first thing I think about every time I visit).
As the world’s largest museum and research complex, it is home to around 157 million artifacts.
Time: 1 hour ⏐ 🕑 Hours: Varies per each museum in the complex ⏐💲Price: Free ⏐
3. National Mall: Monuments
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most famous monuments in DC.
The ginormous statue overlooks the Reflecting Pool. This is one of my favorite photo spots in DC.
Washington Monument
The tallest structure in DC, the Washington Monument offers a breathtaking view of the city from its observation deck.
Admission is free!
Alternate Monuments to Visit:
- Jefferson Memorial
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial
- World War II Memorial
4. .After Hours in DC
Glowing Monuments
Golden Hour is my favorite time to visit DC monuments.
You get gorgeous sunset views followed by the monuments illuminated at night.
Visiting monuments is free but some people prefer to sign up for a guided monuments night tour.
Dinner in Dupont Circle
Explore one final neighborhood during your 24 hours in DC at Dupont Circle.
Dupont is one of the top neighborhoods for dinner and an evening out with friends.
Food enthusiasts flock to Dupont Circle for both the high-quality meals and nightlife.
Catch a show
Similar to any bustling city, DC offers a range of performances.
Explore stand-up comedy venues, live music concerts, and captivating theater productions.
During my visit, Cirque Du Soleil was in town! While it may not rival the vibrant Broadway scene of Chicago, DC has plenty of nightlife activities.
That’s a Wrap
In just 24 action-packed hours, DC provides a snapshot of history, art, and vibrant culture.
Check out free museums and historic neighborhoods like Georgetown or Old Town Alexandria.
After the sun sets, enjoy glowing monuments, a delicious dinner, and several entertainment options.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the energy and elegance of the nation’s capital!
