48 Hours in Washington, DC: National Monuments & Mount Vernon Adventure

James Hammond at Capitol Hill — Checking out Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.

Washington, DC, has always been on my hitlist of places to visit in the USA.

When I was a young kid watching the news, I always saw videos and photos of the iconic landmarks in this city, such as the National Mall, Lincoln’s Statue, the White House, and Capitol Hill.

Finally, I managed to visit, and this blog combines two visits over two days a year apart, aided by my friends Adam and Stephanie from Road Unraveled.

In this blog, I'm taking you on a weekend trip through the heart of American history—Washington, DC!

The first day was when we were road tripping across the USA in the summer of 2023.

We will explore all the iconic landmarks that define the nation, from the majestic Lincoln Memorial to the powerful Capitol Building.

The second day was a year later, but only a few weeks ago, at the time of the release of this blog, when I went to Podcast Movement in DC.

But that's not all! We're also taking a special trip just outside the city to Mount Vernon, George Washington's historic home.

Get ready to walk in the footsteps of the first President, soak in the rich history, and experience the vibrant culture of DC.

Watch my episode on Washington, DC today!

Top Attractions in Washington, DC.

The first day was filled with the most popular sites to visit in the city of DC.

1. National Mall

The National Mall in Washington, DC, is a sprawling, tree-lined park that stretches for about two miles between the Capitol Building and the Lincoln Memorial. This iconic green space is surrounded by some of the nation's most important monuments, memorials, and museums. Standing in the middle, you will see the Washington Monument at one end and Capitol Hill at the other, a spectacular site.

Tip: This place can be overwhelming, so get a map out and plan your day, including which sites and museums you want to see. Put on your walking shoes, too, as there will be a lot of walking.
Thoughts: I was in awe the moment we arrived. The balmy sunny day, coupled with excitement at seeing so many awesome landmarks, instantly made me fall in love with the place. I love the lush green grass in the middle and the vastness of the place as you gasp at the landmarks you can see in the distance at every angle.

2. Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is one of Washington, DC's most iconic landmarks, standing at the western end of the National Mall. Designed in the style of a Greek temple, it features 36 massive columns, each representing a state in the Union at the time of Abraham Lincoln's death.

As you approach, you're greeted by the impressive sight of the memorial reflecting in the nearby Reflecting Pool. Inside, you'll find the towering statue of Lincoln himself, seated and gazing out over the National Mall. The statue is 19 feet tall and carved from white Georgia marble, capturing Lincoln's calm yet resolute demeanor.

Tip: This place is going to be busy, so you will need to have patience and muscle your way in to get your photo. Going at the start or end of the day will draw fewer crowds, so I would advise visiting then.
Thoughts: Iconic. The great man sitting there overlooking the Mall is pretty cool to see. On a hot day, the marble gives the monument a nice fresh coolness to it, which was a relief from the hot weather. Don’t be afraid to get stuck in to get your photos and accept that people will be in those photos.

3. U.S. Capitol, Capitol Hill

The U.S. Capitol, located on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, is the epicentre of American democracy. This grand, neoclassical building is where the United States Congress meets to create and pass laws. It's recognizable by its massive white dome, which dominates the skyline and serves as a symbol of the nation’s government.

Tip: As we know, politicians are allergic to work, but if you visit on a Saturday, this place will be quiet. This is exactly what we did, and there was hardly anyone on the grounds of the Hill. Although this was late on a Saturday, seeing it and gawking at some history was still pretty epic.
Thoughts: I loved that no one was about, and yet again, this iconic building struck me. It is arguably the one that most people remember alongside the White House. It is right next to the Library of Congress, so make sure you see both simultaneously.

4. Library of Congress

The Library of Congress, located near the U.S. Capitol on Capitol Hill, is the largest library in the world and a treasure trove of knowledge, history, and culture. Established in 1800, it serves as the research arm of Congress and is open to the public, offering access to a vast collection of books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and more.

Tip: Head to https://www.loc.gov/visit/ to book your online slot in advance—and even better, it is free! This is a great way to plan your day, as you know you can be there at a certain time, especially if you are combining this with a trip to Capitol Hill.
Thoughts: This place is epic. There are so many rooms to check out, so many books to look at and so much history to ingest. The original draft of the American Declaration of Independence is worth reading as well as the Gutenberg Bible. If you love books, then this place is a dream come true for you!

5. Alexandria's Old Town

Alexandria's Old Town, located just across the Potomac River from Washington, DC, is a charming and historic district that feels like a step back in time. Founded in 1749, Old Town Alexandria is known for its well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant waterfront.

Tip: Getting here from Washington, D.C., is easy. You can take the metro at Union Station and get off at Alexandria via the Fredericksburg, Manassas, or Northeast Region metro line.
Thoughts: This is about as old as modern USA gets, so it is 100% worth visiting as you get to walk some cobbled streets, eat great food like Blue Crab and frequent some traditional pubs. I loved the vibe here. It's a great way to see some more history of where the old elite used to live.

Where to stay in Washington, DC?

Quality Inn Vienna - Tysons Corner

Hotel prices in Washington and USA are extortionate for hotels so staying somewhere in the centre of Washington would be pricey. We opted to stay at the relatively cheap chain of Quality Inn near a metro stop called Spring Hill. This metro goes straight into downtown Washington DC. Great for parking here, too, if you are on a road trip, and this was perfect for us to get back on the road to head west.

My top favourite coffee stop in Washington, DC.

Zeke’s Coffee

Zeke's Coffee is a beloved local coffee roastery and café known for its small-batch, freshly roasted coffee that captures the essence of quality and craftsmanship. Originally founded in Baltimore, Zeke's has expanded to several locations, including Washington, DC, where it has become a staple for coffee enthusiasts.

At Zeke's, the focus is on sourcing the finest beans from around the world and roasting them in-house to perfection. The result is a rich, aromatic cup of coffee that highlights the unique flavors of each bean. Their offerings range from classic drip coffee to espresso-based drinks, with each cup prepared with care and precision.

The atmosphere at Zeke's Coffee is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a quiet moment with a great cup of coffee. The décor is typically cozy and unpretentious, often featuring local art and a laid-back vibe that reflects the community-oriented spirit of the café.

Stephanie and Adam with myself at Zeke's

These are the top attractions in Washington that I wish I had visited.

1. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

One of the most visited museums in the world, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum showcases the history of aviation and space exploration. From the Wright brothers' airplane to the Apollo 11 command module, the museum is packed with artifacts that chronicle humanity's journey to the skies and beyond.

2. National Museum of African American History and Culture

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, this museum is dedicated to the African American experience, from slavery to the civil rights movement and beyond. The museum’s exhibits are deeply moving, offering powerful insights into the contributions and struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. history.

3. Arlington National Cemetery

Just across the Potomac River in Virginia, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400,000 military service members, veterans, and their families. The cemetery is home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame at President John F. Kennedy's grave. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a solemn and memorable experience.

George Washington's Mansion at Mount Vernon

Day trip to Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is the historic estate of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Situated on the banks of the Potomac River in Virginia, just a short distance from Washington, DC, Mount Vernon offers a captivating glimpse into the life of one of America’s most revered figures.

I was staying at National Habour, which is a twenty-minute Uber ride away. The ride costs around $20 each way, and the entry fee to the estate is $28 for one adult.

The Mansion

The centerpiece of Mount Vernon is the mansion itself, a grand yet unpretentious home that showcases Washington's taste and status. The mansion’s design is a reflection of 18th-century Georgian architecture, with its symmetrical layout, white-painted wooden exterior, and distinctive red roof. Inside, the rooms are carefully restored to appear as they did during Washington’s time, featuring period furniture, original woodwork, and Washington's personal belongings. Highlights include the grand dining room, where Washington entertained guests, and the study, where he managed his estate and correspondence.

Tip: Book your time when purchasing your ticket for entry. This tour is included in the price of the ticket, and on busy days, there can be queues. I went during the week, and it was super quiet.
Thoughts: I loved having a guide for the tour. They explained every room and what people did in those rooms. They also explained all the people who visited George Washington when he lived there and gave some historical context to the stories and technology used at that time. Ask them anything you want!

2. The Grounds

Mount Vernon's grounds are expansive, covering over 500 acres of rolling hills, gardens, and forests. The estate is meticulously maintained to reflect the landscape design that Washington himself planned. Visitors can explore the formal gardens, which include the Upper Garden, with its neatly arranged flower beds and boxwood hedges, and the Lower Garden, where vegetables and herbs were grown. The estate also includes a working farm, complete with a reconstructed slave cabin, barns, and a blacksmith shop, providing insight into the agricultural practices of the time.

Tip: Make sure to carry water and have good walking shoes, as the grounds are massive. You can walk all the way down to the Potomac River. If you want to see everything, you are going to walk a few thousand steps, that is for sure.
Thoughts: I spent all morning traipsing around the grounds, checking out everything there is to offer. I loved walking down to the river and gazing out at the views. It's crazy to think that this was the exact same view that George Washington himself would have looked at.

Washington's Tomb + Slave Memorial

A short walk from the mansion is the tomb where George and Martha Washington are buried. The brick mausoleum is simple and dignified, set in a quiet, wooded area. Nearby, the Slave Memorial and Burial Ground honors the enslaved individuals who worked on the estate, adding a poignant layer to the visit.

Tip: Check out the brick walls of the tomb, where you will see the initials of soldiers who scratched their names into the walls when on duty. Many articles about it are online, but the staff there won’t point it out to you. What could that mean?
Thoughts: The Slave Memorial, in my eyes, is the most important place of them all on this site because don’t forget that even though George Washington himself did free the slaves after his death in his will, they all still toiled when he was alive. So it would help if you gave the ultimate respect to these people who were forced from their homes to serve the ruling class. I was pretty shattered to see this memorial quiet when I visited, so make sure you do.

Scan the Skyscanner QR code below to book your Washington, DC flight today, or use the tool below!

Skycanner - click to book now! — Scan this QR code or click the picture for a link to book your flight today!

Some essential tips for navigating Washington, DC.

Public transport

Dulles Airport is served by a metro that goes straight into the centre of Washington, DC. The metro also serves all over the city, so you can get anywhere and to any site. Be sure to purchase a card at the station and top it up.

A river taxi stops at Alexandria and Mount Vernon, so this is a cool way to travel on day trips, but it can be quite expensive. If you prefer a car, Lyft and Uber are readily available. Be aware if you are driving; the road system is pretty crazy around the city, with one-way systems everywhere, which I saw firsthand when Adam and Stephanie very kindly picked me up from the airport.

ESim or SIM card providers

In the US, I would use GigSky as my esim provider, which you can order here. They offer very competitive rates with popular perks such as free use of 100 in an emergency, no internet required to update your app with a new plan, and customer service options if you need to talk to someone.

Language

English and Spanish are your friends here in the USA.

Book your Washington, DC, accommodation today!

Booking.com

Summary of my time in Washington, DC.

Overall, Washington, D.C., is a cool city with much to see and do.

The history is incredible, and the endless museum options and iconic sites are everywhere.

Don’t expect to get trendy coffees or tasty brunches in the areas you are exploring.

This place is about learning US culture and understanding the country's history.

The transport links make it an easy city to navigate around. Everything you want to see and do is either walking distance or a short metro ride away.

You can spend a week here checking out as much as you would like, and day trips to Alexandria or Mount Vernon will help break up the trip.

Mount Vernon also features a museum and education center that delves deeper into Washington’s life, leadership, and legacy. Through interactive exhibits, films, and rare artifacts, visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of Washington’s contributions to the founding of the United States and his enduring influence on the nation.

For a weekend trip, this would be an awesome location due to the amount of activities on offer.

If you happen to be staying at National Harbour, then go and check out Silver Diner for breakfast or dinner. This was my favourite restaurant over the two days described in his blog.

Don’t forget, you can watch this episode on my YouTube channel here.

Happy exploring Washington, DC!