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Discovering Washington's Rich History and Cultural Marvels

Sasha Hazel

Sasha Hazel

12 Mar 2024

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of America's capital city, Washington. Immerse yourself in the iconic landmarks, pay homage to historical figures, and explore captivating museums. From the solemnity of Arlington National Cemetery to the vibrant energy of the 9:30 Club, this 8-day itinerary promises an exhilarating adventure.

Day 1Monuments and Remembrance
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$0

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$ 11

Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Columned rotunda in the style of Rome's Pantheon on the man-made reservoir known as the Tidal Basin.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Free
5 - 6 min

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Directions

Lincoln Memorial
Parthenon-inspired tribute to Abraham Lincoln with a 19-ft. marble statue, murals & reflecting pool.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Free
11 - 14 min

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Directions

Arlington National Cemetery
Vast military cemetery featuring JFK’s eternal flame, Memorial Amphitheater & Tomb of the Unknowns.
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Free
Day 2Arts and Inspiration
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$0

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$ 11

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Prominent marble monument in Arlington National Cemetery marking an unknown WWI solider's grave.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
18 - 22 min

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Directions

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Esteemed cultural center hosting plays, music & dance shows in its multiple theaters plus art tours.
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
8 - 10 min

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Directions

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
Memorial pays tribute to slain civil rights leader near where he delivered "I Have a Dream" speech.
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Free
11 - 16 min

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Directions

Washington Monument
Landmark obelisk rising from the National Mall that honors America's first president.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Free
Day 3Reflection and Empowerment
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$0

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$ 6

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Preserving the memory of the Holocaust with permanent & traveling exhibits & educational programs.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
8 - 12 min

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Directions

ARTECHOUSE DC
Art & technology space with rotating immersive installations, plus a futuristic cocktail bar.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
9 - 11 min

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Directions

United States Capitol
Iconic, domed classical building housing the U.S. Senate & House of Representatives, open for tours.
12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Free
Day 4Espionage and Exploration
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$0

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$ 17

International Spy Museum
Interactive look at the history of espionage features a large collection of spy artifacts & devices.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
10 - 12 min

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Directions

The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
Tourist center at the historic Capitol where visitors can learn about the iconic, domed building.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
12 - 15 min

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Directions

Washington Union Station
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Free
13 - 16 min

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Directions

Union Market
Warehouse-like food market with a host of artisans offering charcuterie, empanadas, gelato & more.
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Free
Day 5Sports and Archives
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$0

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$ 11

Nationals Park
41,546-seat venue is the home field to Major League Baseball's Washington Nationals.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
9 - 11 min

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Directions

National Archives Museum
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Free
27 - 33 min

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Directions

Rock Creek Park
Urban oasis with hiking trails, tennis & golf, plus ranger-led wildlife programs.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Free
Day 6History and Heritage
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$0

Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Vast, venerable museum chronicling American history through displays such as Julia Child's kitchen.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
5 - 8 min

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Directions

National Museum of African American History and Culture
Popular Smithsonian museum with unique exhibits on African American history, culture & community.
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Free
Day 7Music and Wildlife
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$0

9:30 Club
Enduring, intimate rock concert venue with shows, dancing, a pub food menu & beer.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Famous zoo housing thousands of animals, including giant pandas, plus free admission.
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Free
Day 8Sacred Beauty and Devotion
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$0

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$ 6

Washington National Cathedral
Grand, storied cathedral with stained glass, organ recitals & scenic vistas from the top.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
23 - 28 min

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Directions

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Landmark Byzantine-Romanesque-style Catholic church featuring mass, tours & a vast art collection.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free

Budget breakdown: $61 In total

Activities & Food:Free
Transport:$61