48 Hours in Washington, DC: How to Maximize Your Time

Recently I visited one of the top cities on my bucket list – Washington, D.C.!! At first, I was a little intimidated because this was my first solo trip and there were so many places and historical sites I wanted to visit. Even though I was initially intimidated and overwhelmed, I ended up having a wonderful time! I only had a weekend to explore, so I had to maximize my time as much as possible. Here are some tips and tricks I used to make the most of my 48 hours in Washington, DC:

1. Plan ahead – Write down a list of things you want to do and then rank them by importance. Visit your top places first (if possible) and then work your way down the list.
2. Map it out – Use a map either on your phone or a hard copy to mark every location you plan to visit. Visually seeing where everything is located helps to create an ideal itinerary that saves you commute and money. You’ll also notice the places you can walk to versus taking a Lyft/Uber or the metro.
3. Be flexible – Don’t be too strict with times. This will only create unnecessary stress for yourself alone. I give myself 2 hours to explore for each activity and then an hour for break/commuting to get to the next location. Of course, there are some things that you must be on time for, such as tours or most ticketed events. If the activity doesn’t have a specific time you need to be there, just go with the flow.
4. Check for events happening during your stay. This is an easy way to engulf the local culture and be in the moment. Monuments and museums will always be there. However, unique experiences will not. I have a huge love for the arts so galleries, poetry spots, and museums are all right up my alley. Anytime I visit a new city, I always scan Facebook, Instagram, Eventbrite, and Google for any interesting things that may be happening while I’m in town.

Using all these tips is how I spent my 48 hours in Washington, DC:

Friday
I checked into my hotel and then headed to an opening reception at IA&A Hillyer, a contemporary art gallery located near Dupont Circle. They were having an opening reception for their July exhibitions. I indulged in complimentary wine and snacks while viewing some incredible artwork. 

After getting some cute photos and exploring nearby murals, I ventured over to the historic U Street and spent the rest of the evening there. From researching the area, I knew there were plenty of art and food tours on U street. I preferred to save my coins and create my own mini-tour. Starting my journey at Oohhs and Aahhs, a soul food restaurant at the corner of 10^th and U. I grabbed a six-piece lemon pepper wing and devoured it outside the store, people watching with other patrons.

Afterward, I strolled west up U street and took time to soak in the murals and ambiance. I stopped by a bar or two to feel the vibe and eventually made my way to Ben’s Chili Bowl, another staple DC restaurant. I got the famous half-smoked dog and sat inside, admiring the hustle and bustle around me. Their half-smoke was hands down the best-grilled dog I have ever bought in my life. It was grilled perfectly, juicy and flavorful.

Following Ben’s Chili Bowl, I continued my stroll down U Street and was blessed by the sounds of the Hot Gumbo Brass Band and ended my journey at Busboys and Poets. This place is a book store, restaurant, and event space all in one. I participated in their 11^th Hour Poetry Slam that night (and won might I add!)

Saturday
I visited the typical touristy spots early in the morning. Meaning, I walked to the White House, then ventured to the Lincoln Memorial. I rented a scooter to save time and rode from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capital. It was a nice stroll through the National Mall.

I also checked out the new Navy area and grabbed brunch at CIRCA with a friend. The food was delicious and so were the drinks!

In the afternoon, I went to the Anacostia Arts Center, a community market housing multiple black-owned businesses. I had the opportunity to visit MahagonyBooks, a bookstore I have been following for a while, and was very pleased with their selection. Also, I picked up some items from Nubian Hueman.

I ended my day at Artechouse, a digital art museum off Maryland Ave. This was my first time at a completely digital art museum and I was not disappointed. It was a unique experience from the moment I walked in the door. Although I was underwhelmed with the size of the museum, the exhibit itself was breathtaking and one of a kind.

Sunday
On the last of my 48 hours in Washington, DC I took it easy this morning and took a stroll through the Eastern Market, which is an outdoor and indoor farmers market in DC. There were so many amazing vendors.

Following that, I visited the Renwick Gallery. This was the only Smithsonian I was able to visit during my time, mainly because it didn’t have a long line. It was a beautiful experience, my favorite being a makeshift temple exhibition where visitors could write a letter to a loved one or someone they miss. It was an emotional but powerful moment of mourning and healing to participate in.

Afterward, I grabbed lunch at Potbelly, one of my favorite sandwich spots, then headed for the airport. There were some places on my itinerary and I wasn’t able to visit (Howard University, African American Museum, National Portrait Museum, etc.)  but those will be at the top of my list the next time I visit.