Your session will expire in 5 minutes, 0 seconds, due to inactivity. Stay Logged In
Your session has expired. Please sign in to your profile
InterContinental by IHG Washington D.C. - The Wharf Homepage
View prices
Scenic Potomac River view from The Wharf
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf

One Day in Washington, D.C.

A First-Time Visitor's Guide

Discover Washington, D.C.'s most iconic landmarks, museums, memorials, and neighborhoods in a single day. Perfect for first-time visitors, this itinerary combines the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, Capitol Hill, and waterfront dining into an unforgettable introduction to the nation's capital. 

Lincoln Memorial at sunset with visitors on the steps

Morning: Explore the National Mall

Breakfast Recommendation
Start your morning with breakfast at Willowsong, located at InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf. 

Lincoln Memorial & Historic Memorials
Begin your day at the Lincoln Memorial before strolling along the Reflecting Pool toward some of Washington's most significant landmarks. Along the way, visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, and Washington Monument.

Highlights:

  • Lincoln Memorial 
  • Reflecting Pool 
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial 
  • Korean War Veterans Memorial 
  • World War II Memorial 
  • Washington Monument 
The White House framed by Washington, D.C. at dusk

Midday: White House & Downtown Washington

Continue to the White House for one of Washington's most recognizable photo opportunities. From Pennsylvania Avenue, enjoy views of the executive residence before exploring nearby downtown attractions.

Lunch Nearby

Popular lunch options include:

  • Old Ebbitt Grill 
  • Café du Parc 
  • Downtown D.C. cafés and restaurants 
Visitors viewing exhibits inside a museum gallery

Afternoon: Smithsonian Museums

No visit to Washington, D.C. is complete without experiencing the Smithsonian Institution. With free admission to most museums, visitors can easily spend several hours exploring exhibits focused on history, science, art, and culture. 

Recommended Museums 

  • National Air and Space Museum 
  • National Museum of Natural History 
  • National Museum of American History 
  • National Gallery of Art 

Our Concierge team can assist with museum recommendations and ticket guidance where applicable. 
Ornate interior architecture at the Library of Congress

Late Afternoon: Capitol Hill

Explore the eastern end of the National Mall and discover two of Washington's most impressive institutions. 

Featured Attractions 

  • U.S. Capitol 
  • Library of Congress 

Admire the architecture, learn about American government, and capture photos of some of the city's most iconic buildings. 

Optional Neighborhood Exploration 

Georgetown 
Stroll historic streets lined with boutiques, restaurants, waterfront paths, and charming row houses. 

Capitol Hill & Eastern Market 
Experience local shops, cafés, and one of Washington's most beloved neighborhoods. 
Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument across the water

Evening: Dining at The Wharf

Return to The Wharf for waterfront dining, cocktails, and scenic views along the Washington Channel. 

Dinner Recommendations 

  • Willowsong 
  • Del Mar 
  • Limani 
  • La Vie
  • Fish Shop
  • Hell's Kitchen

Enjoy everything from chef-driven cuisine to lively waterfront dining just steps from your guestroom.
Jefferson Memorial illuminated beside the Tidal Basin

After Dark: Washington's Illuminated Monuments

As the sun sets, many of Washington's most famous memorials take on a completely different atmosphere. 

Evening Memorial Highlights 

  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial 
  • Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial 
  • Jefferson Memorial 

An evening walk around the Tidal Basin offers some of the city's most memorable views. 

End the Evening

Finish your day with a cocktail overlooking the city before returning to InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf. 

Looking for More?

Explore our three-day Washington, D.C. itinerary for additional recommendations on museums, neighborhoods, dining, shopping, and seasonal experiences.