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Washington, D.C. Travel Guide

Travel like a Washingtonian.
Last Updated
:
February 17, 2024
by
Editorial Staff
Pennsylvania Avenue traffic and lights towards United States Capitol Building home of the USA Congress on National Mall in Washington, DC
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As most politics junkies, visiting Washington D.C. has always been on many people’s bucket list. And let us tell you – no number of House of Cards rewatches fully prepares you for just how ruthless (in an exciting way!) this town really is! But politics isn’t the only game in the capital. From mouthwatering Mumbo sauce to world-class arts and culture, D.C. has so much awesomeness packed within just 68 square miles.

In this travel guide, we want to help first-timers and return visitors alike see a different side of D.C., where locals actually eat, drink, party, and well, live! We’ll take you to the heart of historic neighborhoods, share the best-kept secrets spots, and introduce you to homegrown talents that capture the essence of these diverse communities.

Yes, the memorials and Smithsonian are must-sees (and we have museum hacks!) but we want to give you an insider’s view into D.C.’s vibrant culture beyond The Beltway. Think artisan coffeehouses, underground music venues, mural walks through emerging creative communities, and so much more. This isn’t your 8th-grade field trip – it’s a chance to truly experience one of America’s most electric cities (did we mention amazing food?!!).

So allow us to be your guide to the locals’ D.C. – the most flavorful Washington you never knew existed!

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About

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Despite its political history, Washington, D.C. has an exciting culture that attracts both tourists and locals. It is home to numerous museums and is the perfect destination for cherry blossoms. It also has some of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the country, including a historic row house neighborhood. The cultural scene is diverse, with restaurants and nightlife flourishing. The city is becoming more accessible, and tourists and residents are discovering it for more than its historical buildings.

Visitors will love exploring museums and galleries in Washington, D.C. Many of the public museums are free. Check out the National Portrait Gallery or the National Museum of American History. You’ll find a wealth of historical and contemporary art in D.C.’s museums. You can also visit the museums of the Smithsonian Institution, which feature many of the city’s treasures.

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Best Time to Go

Georgetown District in Washington DC, United States
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If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to go to Washington, D.C. is during the spring and fall. April and March can be windy and gambley, but May and June usually offer the most reliable spring weather. May and June are also the cheapest months to visit Washington, D.C.

While fall is not the most popular time to visit Washington, D.C., it is still a fantastic time to visit. The foliage is beautiful and the city is less crowded during this time. The cherry blossom season in late March draws visitors from all over the world. In summer, the temperatures can be high, but the museums stay cool. If you visit the National Mall during this time, you’ll be able to see the impressive fireworks display at Independence Day.

The best time to visit Washington, D.C. depends on your budget. During the summer, winter, and early spring, you can enjoy the city’s attractions while avoiding the crowds. During these months, many hotels have low prices and the government is out. In addition, you can visit museums and see the sights without paying a premium for tickets.

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Things to Know

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When planning a trip to the nation’s capital, it’s important to know where to go and what to do. There are some classic attractions, such as the Washington Monument, the U.S. Capitol, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, which you should visit while you’re there. Another must-see spot is the Tidal Basin, where you can see the famous cherry blossoms in full bloom. Visitors should plan their trip during cherry blossom season, as they are best seen early in the morning.

If you’re a first-time visitor, you may not be familiar with many of the city’s sites and customs. The People’s House, for example, is an important building, but you can simply view it from the street. However, if you’d like to take a guided tour, it’s best to do this ahead of time.

One of the most popular places to eat in the city is the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl. It is popular among celebrities and former US presidents and serves a variety of comfort foods.

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How to Get Around

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There are many options for transportation in the Washington, D.C. area. Using public transportation is one of the easiest ways to get around the city. The city has a well-developed system of buses and Metrorail, which can get you where you need to go at any time. You can even buy a Metro card online and use it to make your journey even more convenient.

Driving in Washington, D.C. can be a hassle. The traffic can be frustrating and dangerous, so it is not recommended unless you’re driving for long distances. If you plan on visiting the National Mall and other attractions, using public transportation is a great idea. Once you’re in the city, you can purchase an Explorer Pass and enjoy up to 40% off the top attractions.

Another option is to use taxis. Compared to other cities on the East Coast, taxi fares in D.C. are extremely affordable. However, if you plan to be out late, you should make sure to check the rates before hailing a cab. You can also use a ride-hailing app like ParkWhiz to compare prices.

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Best Restaurants

Restaurant view of The Inn at Little Washington
The Inn at Little Washington

The city has a diverse array of restaurants. There are waterfront communities, the hottest spots on Capitol Hill, and old-fashioned chestnuts near the White House. But there’s one dining spot that is truly unrivaled: The Inn at Little Washington. This restaurant holds three Michelin stars and one green star. Its lavish decor and lavish plating make it anything but your average American inn. Guests will find romantic lighting and front-row feasts that will make you want to come back time and again.

While the city has a long history of upscale dining, it’s also an exciting place to find contemporary dishes. There are plenty of new, trendy restaurants popping up all the time, and there are also a few classics that remain as good as ever. If you’re visiting, avoid the tourist-heavy National Mall and head to the neighborhoods that are home to the best restaurants in Washington, D.C.

The District of Columbia’s restaurant scene reflects the diversity of the city, as well as the fact that it is connected to the rest of the world. Diners can enjoy everything from Japanese izakaya to pupusas, from Ethiopian food to Indian off-menu. This eclectic mix of ethnic cuisines makes the city’s dining scene a unique experience.

Explore restaurants >>

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Things to Do

US Capitol Dome Rotunda Amerian History Freize Washington DC
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If you’re planning a visit to the capital of the United States, there are a number of things you should do. Whether you’re an avid history buff or just a first-time traveler, there are several must-see attractions in Washington, D.C. The Capitol Building is a must-see symbol of American democracy. Its iconic white dome, which ends in an obelisk, is the symbol of the nation’s political power. It’s the site of numerous historic events, from Presidential Inaugurations to the Civil Rights movement.

Another popular attraction in Washington, D.C. is the Capital Wheel, which sits 180 feet above the Potomac River. From the top, you’ll get a birds-eye view of the National Mall, the Masonic Temple, Georgetown, and Old Town Alexandria. You can find Groupon deals for the ride to save money, but be sure to plan for enough time to see everything. Other great attractions in the area include the Smithsonian Museums’ American Art Museum and the Renwick Gallery, both of which feature contemporary and decorative art. You can also visit the White House and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

Another great place to visit is the National Mall, which is home to the Washington Monument. The mall’s walking paths are lined with Smithsonian museums. You can take in live music and shop for souvenirs at local shops. If you’re a fan of baseball, you can catch a Washington Nationals game at Nationals Park, a baseball stadium in the southern part of D.C. You can usually catch a game for under $50 per person and can catch the first pitch as early as March.

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Neighborhoods to Know

Residential Building in Georgetown Neighborhood in Washington DC
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When you visit Washington, D.C., you’ll want to know what neighborhoods are worth visiting beyond the national mall. Whether you want to see a historic building or enjoy the shopping scene, there are plenty of places to explore. This guide will help you choose the best neighborhoods for your trip.

One of the most popular neighborhoods in the city is Logan Circle. This area is popular with young urban professionals and offers a variety of housing options. It has dozens of restaurants and exciting nightlife, and you can sample international cuisine at the nearby Chinatown. You can also relax at a sidewalk café or enjoy a live band at a local bar.

This neighborhood is located near Capitol Hill and Union Station. The neighborhood offers access to several metro stations and a bike path. The neighborhood is also popular with the political crowd.

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Weather

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The weather in Washington, D.C. is mild most of the year, but the city does experience occasional cold snaps. The last big one in 2018 was so cold that the Anacostia and Potomac rivers froze over. The good news is that you can still enjoy outdoor activities in Washington, D.C. even in these cold snaps.

Washington, D.C. has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. The summers are the hottest, with temperatures rising to about 80°F. The colder months are January and February, with low temperatures around 20°F. During spring, the temperatures are moderate. It rains about two to four inches per month.

November’s weather is autumnal but not cold. It is the best time to visit D.C. as it is less crowded and temperatures are low, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities. Although temperatures will drop a few degrees, the daytime highs in November will still be pleasant, with temperatures hovering in the mid to low-60s°F. Some days will be sunny, while others will be mostly overcast.

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Editorial Staff
Editorial Staff at TravelMasta is a team of travel knowers led by Tengku Adam with over 6 years of experience. We have been learning about travel since 2017, and we are optimistic about becoming the largest travel resource site in the industry.

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