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Discovering Washington's Hidden Gems

Jennifer Lo

Jennifer Lo

9 Jan 2024

Embark on a thrilling journey through the vibrant streets of Washington, exploring iconic landmarks, savoring mouthwatering cuisine, and immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the city.

Day 1Culinary Delights and Monumental Wonders
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$166

·

$ 17

Cafe Du Parc
Discover a truly authentic bistro experience where traditional French food fuses with a modern, casual atmosphere in the heart of the nation's capital. Acclaimed Luc Dendievel has created a one-of-a-kind menu enhanced by the use of locally grown produce and Café du Parc's 3 star certified green r...
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$38
8 - 11 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.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Washington Monument
Landmark obelisk rising from the National Mall that honors America's first president.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Free
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Bonchon Chicken - Arlington, VA
Bonchon's Korean fried chicken is located in Arlington, VA. Experience authenticity with Bonchon's signature Korean food in a restaurant location near you.
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
$72
12 - 15 min

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Directions

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Prominent marble monument in Arlington National Cemetery marking an unknown WWI solider's grave.
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Free
14 - 17 min

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Directions

Texas Jacks Barbecue
Texas Jack's is named after legendary cowboy John B. Omohundro from Virginia. His extensive travels, adventures, and extraordinary commitment to others can be felt in the planks of our communal tables, in the smiles of our friendly staff, and in the taste of our succulent, smoked barbecue.
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$56
Day 2Cultural Immersion and Iconic Memorials
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$172

·

$ 17

Rice Bar
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$46
8 - 11 min

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Directions

National Museum of the American Indian
Artifact exhibits & modern interactive displays examine the history & culture of Native Americans.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
15 - 18 min

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Directions

Duke's Grocery
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
$56
8 - 10 min

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Directions

Lincoln Memorial
Parthenon-inspired tribute to Abraham Lincoln with a 19-ft. marble statue, murals & reflecting pool.
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Free
7 - 9 min

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Directions

Founding Farmers
Founding Farmers is owned by the more than 40,000 family farmers of the NDFU, serving American inspired real food and drink.
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$70
Day 3A Fusion of History, Art, and Espionage
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$142

·

$ 6

Bistro Du Jour
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$42
13 - 20 min

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Directions

Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Columned rotunda in the style of Rome's Pantheon on the man-made reservoir known as the Tidal Basin.
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Free
16 - 23 min

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Directions

International Spy Museum
Interactive look at the history of espionage features a large collection of spy artifacts & devices.
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Free
8 - 10 min

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Directions

Zaytinya
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
$64
4 - 5 min

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Directions

National Portrait Gallery
Major, free-admission museum with art works portraying influential Americans throughout history.
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Free
2 - 3 min

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Directions

Café Riggs
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$36
Day 4Tea Time, Museums, and Gastronomic Bliss
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$152

·

$ 17

Peacock Alley Tea
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$44
9 - 11 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.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
3 - 4 min

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Directions

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Preserving the memory of the Holocaust with permanent & traveling exhibits & educational programs.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
7 - 9 min

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Directions

The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is nationally acclaimed for dry-aged steak, fresh seafood, & a diverse wine list, presented with professional and attentive service.
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
$58
12 - 17 min

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Directions

Museum of the Bible
Immersive exhibits, including a recreation of Jesus's Nazareth, plus ancient scrolls & rare Bibles.
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Free
13 - 20 min

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Directions

Charlie Palmer Steak
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$50
Day 5Space Exploration and Iconic Dining
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$160

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$ 17

Charlie Palmer Steak
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$50
12 - 17 min

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Directions

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Museum documenting the history of aviation & space exploration, with displays of vehicles & more.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
8 - 10 min

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Directions

Old Ebbitt Grill
Oldest dining saloon in DC. Across from White House. American Fare. Largest selection of oysters in DC. Open daily-breakfast, lunch, dinner, late-night.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
$58
8 - 10 min

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Directions

National Mall
Washington Monument plus memorials to Lincoln, MLK, FDR, WWII & Vietnam vets along a grassy mall.
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Free
7 - 9 min

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Directions

Central Michel Richard
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$52
Day 6Historical Treasures and Charming Neighborhoods
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$142

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$ 6

Café Riggs
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$36
12 - 18 min

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Directions

Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Vast, venerable museum chronicling American history through displays such as Julia Child's kitchen.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
12 - 15 min

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Directions

Georgetown Park
Tranquil grassy area featuring a promenade for walking & biking, plus scenic views & overlooks.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Free
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Kafe Leopold
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
$52
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Chaia
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$54
Day 7Museums, Seafood, and Natural Beauty
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$172

·

$ 17

The Smith
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$42
8 - 12 min

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Directions

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
From dinosaur exhibits to displays of rare gems, this acclaimed museum celebrates the natural world.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
16 - 20 min

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Directions

Ivy City Smokehouse Market & Tavern
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
$58
10 - 12 min

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Directions

United States National Arboretum
Free to visitors, this outdoor space boasts trees, shrubs, & plants, plus a picnic area & museum.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Free
13 - 16 min

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Directions

Maketto
Opens officially on Friday, Apr 10 Maketto is a communal marketplace and lifestyle brand located in Washington, DC combining retail, restaurant, and café.
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$72
Day 8Zoological Marvels and Architectural Splendors
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$184

Open City
Brunch all day, craft beers on tap, a thoughtful wine selection, Counter Culture coffee and a menu of fresh and delicious options.
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$50
17 - 26 min

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Directions

Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Famous zoo housing thousands of animals, including giant pandas, plus free admission.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
La Piquette
A neighborhood Bistrot located in Cleveland Park that stays faithful to its French roots offering the best French dishes on this side of the Atlantic.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
$72
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Washington National Cathedral
Grand, storied cathedral with stained glass, organ recitals & scenic vistas from the top.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Free
6 - 9 min

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Directions

2 Amys
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$62
Day 9Performing Arts, Botanic Gardens, and Exquisite Cuisine
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$164

·

$ 11

Farmers Fishers Bakers
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
$40
9 - 14 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.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
19 - 23 min

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Directions

sweetgreen Capitol Hill
Fresh salads, plates + grain bowls available for pickup and delivery every day, made in-house from scratch, using whole produce delivered that morning.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
$62
12 - 17 min

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Directions

United States Botanic Garden
Sprawling grounds featuring exotic flora plus conservatory, rare plants gallery & butterfly garden.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Free
7 - 9 min

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Directions

Rasika
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$62

Budget breakdown: $1559 In total

Activities & Food:$1454
Transport:$105