D.C. is calling.
A destination rich in history and culture, Washington, D.C., has endless attractions. More than simply the nation’s capital, a politician’s escape or a school field trip destination, Washington has become a vibrant melting pot of excellent hotels, standout dining and ample cultural experiences.
We’ve compiled a quick escape guide. While we’re approaching spring’s iconic National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 to April 14), note that there’s no “best” time to visit the District because the weather tends to be moderate year-round.
Riggs Washington DC offers a convenient starting point for those looking to experience the best of this vibrant city in a brief time. The centrally located property is just off the Gallery Place/Chinatown and Metro Center metro stops, which cover all existing lines and provide proximity to all city areas within a few minutes’ walk. The retro-chic bank-turned-hotel and its buzzy Silver Lyan cocktail bar make it an attractive post-sightseeing sanctuary.
Relax in Riggs’ guest room.
Day One
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Riggs’ restaurant, Café Riggs, known for its locally sourced ingredients, or pop by a local spot (we love Tatte Bakery) for a quick bite. After breakfast, take a leisurely 15-minute walk to the National Mall, a sprawling open park where most of the Smithsonian museums are located. As you stroll past the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, you’ll get your blood pumping. Take your time to explore and absorb the significance of these national treasures. Not sure you want to walk that much? Segway and hop-on, hop-off ride options are also available. And, of course, Riggs could arrange a private driver-guide.
By midday, you’ll have worked up an appetite, so pause for lunch at an iconic D.C. address. Stop by Old Ebbitt Grill for oysters, a top-notch Reuben or roasted turkey sandwich and some bipartisan political gossip.
Come afternoon, it’s museum time. There’s an attraction for everyone, so plan to hit at least two during your stay. The National Museum of American History, with its gallery of first lady dresses and the original Star-Spangled Banner, the interactive National Museum of African American History & Culture and the National Gallery of Art are all essential visits.
Visit the National Gallery of Art.
Kids may prefer the National Museum of Natural History‘s dinosaurs or the National Air and Space Museum‘s planes and IMAX screenings. You can’t go wrong with any of them. And unlike many cities, all of the Smithsonian museums are free, and most don’t require advance ticketing or reservations.
That evening, freshen up back at Riggs before heading out for dinner. (If you need an outfit, the high-end shopping at CityCenter, with Hermès, Louis Vuitton and more, is just a few blocks from the D.C. hotel.) For dinner, take a quick Uber to L’Ardente for modern Italian (the Caesar salad is to die for, as is the 40-layer lasagna), hot new French spot L’Avante Garde or some of the best Indian in the nation at Rasika, which is a fast 10-minute walk.
Check out Georgetown.
Day Two
On your second day, venture out to the historic neighborhood of Georgetown. Start with brunch at one of the quaint cafés lining the cobblestone streets — one of our favorites is Baked and Wired, which also offers amazing cupcakes for those with a sweet tooth. However, if you’re visiting on a weekend, there’s no better power brunch than Seasons at the Five-Star Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. Post-brunch, take some time to peruse the boutique shops and galleries that make Georgetown a unique shopping destination.
After exploring Georgetown, head toward the Dupont Circle area, known for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural institutions. Visit the Phillips Collection, America’s first museum of modern art, to see works by Renoir, Rothko and other masters. If you need a break from museums and are visiting on a weekday, learn a bit more about the city’s political past. White House tours are possible during most times of the year but require pre-registration 21 to 90 days in advance and are requested via your member of Congress.
Tour the White House.
For your final evening, indulge in a show at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This premier cultural venue brings a mix of opera, symphony, concerts and touring Broadway shows to the city. Before the show, enjoy a rooftop dinner at the Terrace Restaurant for panoramic views of the Potomac River.
After dinner, consider a moonlit stroll around the Tidal Basin, where the Jefferson Memorial stands majestically against the night sky.
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