One day in Washington DC on my own

[Inniu]

I have to drop a teen off at a residential course in Washington DC on an afternoon in June and in order to get a free air miles flight home I have to wait until the next night leaving me one evening and most of the next day in my own in Washington.

I plan to have done a tour of the major monuments with the teen the day before.

I am thinking of some exhibitions in the museum of American history but would love some suggestions

Do you mean the Smithsonian American History Museum?

American History Museum

A fabulous choice. I'd also see if you can see the Air and Space Museum for an hour or two:

Air and Space Museum

Did you post about your daughter doing a summer course at one of the WDC area universities a few months ago? I seem to recall discussing housing options with you.

No that wasn’t me. DD is doing a residential in Georgetown. I hadn’t intended to bring her over but all the flight options involved her spending a night in a DC hotel on her own which was not something I would be happy with for a 16 year old,

Yes I meant the Smithsonian American History museum. There are some great exhibitions on. Especially on women’s issues and interests.

I went to the Air and Space Museum about 25 years ago and loved it. I will try and squeeze it in with DD.

Sorry, my mistake. Do you know where you'll be staying? It should be lovely in June.

I can recommend a restaurant called Bindaas. It does Indian street food and is delicious. Also had an amazing cocktail there. They have 2 locations I believe.

No decisions on where to stay yet. Somewhere central. It seems to be relatively inexpensive compared to European cities

The American history museum is very good and accessible - no boring bits! The original Betsy Ross flag is in there.

Air and Space, well, only if you’re into that sort of thing.

Take a walk by the White House - see both views, front and rear lawn - the rear is somehow more impressive. Take in the Washington monument then head over to the 2nd world war memorial - it’s really well done. The reflecting pool should be filled (on my last visit it wasn’t). See the Korean and Vietnam war monuments - both incredibly moving but very different.

A major highlight is the Lincoln memorial - a stone figure of him is inside the monument and the size takes your breath away!

The Jefferson memorial down on the water is smaller and prettier but no less interesting. The cherry blossom will have gone but the trees and riverside views are very beautiful.

Take a tour bus! I always advise that...but beware of the heavy hints for tips! One of the routes takes you up through Georgetown to gawk at the embassies and big houses.

Arlington cemetery - this requires a full afternoon really or a day for many people as there’s a lot to take in so might not be something for a whistle stop visit.

There’s also the natural history museum if you like to see stuffed animals. The best art is at the Phillips gallery.

But yes, the American History museum is a great choice. Then just walk, walk, walk. It’s such a great walking city and so manageable and historic - I love it.