Day/Overnight trip at the Kennedy Center.  This guide includes a hotel suggestion, Kennedy Center directions and dinner suggestions at the Watergate Hotel.

Georgetown, Washington, DC, USA

Washington, D.C., USA

Kennedy Center F Street Northwest, Washington, DC, USA

Maryland, USA

D.C., DC, USA

Virginia, USA

Day Trip to Washington, DC

After going to college in the area, and spending the majority of my twenties in DC, I amassed a collection of favorites bars, restaurants, activities, and coffee shops.  Here you'll find my tried and true favorites, plus some recommendations from my current local friends there.

Washington D.C., DC, USA

Favorites in Washington, DC

A visit to the nation's capitol offers rich history and a number of free attractions as well as museums, monuments, memorials, and more! 

I lived there for 4+ years and have shared this list with friends and family who plan to visit! This introductory guide is especially helpful for first time visitors. 

* Save this guide for a future trip*

Washington, D.C. Must-See Guide🌸

This itinerary covers 3 full days in the Nation's Capital, with free bus transportation to national monuments, museums and picnic spots, hand selected by a native Washingtonian. This family-friendly guide will save you money and time.  The itinerary assumes you will pack a lunch for each day, and the first 2 days begin at a grocery store. 

Washington

Extreme Budget Washington DC Itinerary; FREE Attractions and Transit

This 2-day itinerary explores Washington DC's best sights, museums and restaurants.  It uses the Navy Yard neighborhood as the starting point. 

DC Budget Itinerary from Navy Yard


Ready to see more than the monuments? Explore Washington, DC with this carefully curated guide! 🏛️🥂 

From delicious eats to fun nighttime hangs, these are the travel recs we share with out-of-towners who want to go beyond the National Mall. Unwind at lush green spaces, spend the day with a good book, or embrace adventure and explore the city's hidden corners. This guide unlocks DC's charm and authenticity, helping you create unforgettable memories.

Explore Washington, DC

Washington, DC

Consider Washington DC as your next travel destination! 

It is the perfect destination for history buffs, art lovers, foodies and so much more! 

Plus where to find the best spots to photograph cherry blossom season 🌸🌸

In this guide I share all of my favorite places to stay, eat and explore! 

Washington D.C | First Time Visitor’s  Guide 

Here's a peek at what's inside:

Insider Tips for DC
Where to Stay 
Attractions 
Art & Museums
Cafés 
Food 
Dessert 
Drinks 
Rooftop Bars 
Shopping 
Markets 
Miscellaneous 
Notable DC Figures 
Films Set in DC
Link to Custom Google Map

washington dc ultimate guide

DC has a way of surprising you. Once you get beyond the hustle and bustle, you’ll find a city where life just happens. It’s in the small moments—neighbors chatting at local shops, kids playing in the parks, and friends gathering over coffee. You can really feel the community spirit, making it easy to settle in and feel at home.

Then there’s Alexandria, just a stone’s throw away. It’s got a relaxed, charming vibe with its cobblestone streets and waterfront paths. It’s the kind of place where you can take a leisurely walk, grab a bite to eat, or just hang out by the water. It feels cozy and inviting, like a little escape from the city buzz.

Together, DC and Alexandria create a nice balance. DC is full of energy and excitement, while Alexandria offers a slower pace when you need a breather. Both places have their unique charm, making them feel like home to anyone who spends time there 🇺🇸

Washington DC

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Opened in 1971 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy’s passion for the arts, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural institution located near Georgetown.

Designed by Edward Durell Stone, its gleaming white marble exterior and spacious grand halls adorned with glittering chandeliers embody mid-century modern elegance. 

Known for its world-class performances in theater, opera, ballet and music. The building is now home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the Washington National Opera, and more.

The Kennedy Center also celebrates the intersection of art and education through the annual honors and free daily performances at the Millennium Stage. 

The rooftop terrace offers one of the best views, overlooking the Potomac River, the National Mall and the Virginia skyline.

I have fond memories of seeing cellist Yo-Yo Ma, violinist Joshua Bell, opera La Traviata, and more at the Kennedy Center! 
~ When purchasing tickets, make sure to check the view using the small camera icon on the seat map for a picture.
~ In the Opera House, the best seats in my opinion are Orchestra level, 10-12 rows back on the side aisle seats. 
~ In the Concert Hall, mid-orchestra or first tier are nice.
~ The Roof Terrace Restaurant & Bar as well as the KC Café are available for food and drink.  

Free Performance at Millenium Stage @ 6:30 pm, Reserve tickets ahead.
JFK Exhibit at the Kennedy Center
Photos from the balcony
Art at The Reach


Beautiful performing arts theatre with incredible views from the terrace. Free shows everyday at 6pm. 

A stunning venue that hosts plays, concerts, and operas.

Get tickets to a show! You know it will be good 

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

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