48 Hours in Washington, D.C.

Day One

Morning

Begin your day with a walk along the National Mall in the heart of the city. The two-mile long, tree-lined lawn is bordered by the Capitol Building and Library of Congress on the east and the Lincoln Memorial and Potomac River on the west. Many of the most popular Smithsonian museums, national monuments and memorials are found along the National Mall. An abundance of parks, plazas, art installations and historic sites can be enjoyed as visitors navigate the city. For breakfast, you have options! Try the Rose Avenue Bakery, just minutes from the hotel, for coffees, teas and breakfast pastries. Locals love this spot that is right on Connecticut Avenue across from the Metro Station. Downtown, you find another local favorite – Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken with an ever evolving menu of playful and seasonal doughnuts.

Afternoon

The Tidal Basin is a beautiful park like area was recently renovated. In 1925, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial – evocative of the Pantheon in Rome - was installed along the Tidal Basin as one of the many points of interest. The Tidal Basin is a large body of water that is bordered by DC’s famous cherry blossom trees. Visitors may discover the Tidal Basin on foot or by paddleboat. On a moonlit night, the memorial creates a beautiful, shimmering image on the water, and in springtime, it’s joined by blooming cherry blossom trees. Close by you’ll find the Memorials for Martin Luther King Jr., Franklin Delano Roosevelt and George Mason.

For an unexpected DC experience, head to the Folger Shakespeare Library and join a guided tour ($) of the world's largest collection of materials relating to Shakespeare and his works. Across the street, you’ll find the Library of Congress which features a seasonal happy hour every Thursday and is well worth a visit. For lunch, discover one of Capital Hill’s charming spots like Jimmy T’s Place, Butterworth’s, Café Berlin or the Monocle. After lunch, consider a stop at the National Gallery of Art or the Air & Space Museum (timed entry pass is required.)

Evening

Back at the Omni Shoreham, enjoy dinner in the Marquee Lounge, where you’ll find signature entrees such as the famous Shoreham Crab Cakes and a bespoke cocktail menu. Draught beer and a celebrated wine list are available nightly. Afterward, enjoy a walk along the waterfront in Georgetown where you’ll find stunning sunset views against the Potomac.

After you leave the waterfront, stop off for a cocktail and enjoy the Georgetown nightlife. Be sure to check out the landmark Georgetown restaurant, Martin’s Tavern which offers a slice of old-school Washington. Blues Alley Club or the Georgetown Piano always entertain. Blues Alley is the nation’s longest continuing jazz supper club. Located in the heart of Georgetown and reminiscent of the supper clubs from the 1920s and 1930s, this iconic club featured greats like Dizzy Gillespie and Wynton Marsalis. It’s unique ambiance, top-notch acoustics and authentic Creole cuisine is the best blend of sights, sounds and flavors. At the Georgetown Piano Bar, you’ll find a daily happy hour and dueling pianos every Friday and Saturday. 

Day Two

Morning

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast in-room or at Robert’s Restaurant. Once your appetite is satiated, hop the metro to explore the Smithsonian museum of your choice. With 19 world-class museums, galleries, gardens and a zoo to choose from, select one or two for the day and enjoy impressive collections. From the African American Museum to the Museum of Natural History, Museum of American History, Museum of the American Indian, the newly opened Hirshhorn Sculpture Gardens, Postal Museum and so many more. You’ll find no shortage of options. Selecting two museums allows you to enjoy the district fully.

Afternoon

While you’re in the Smithsonian complex, consider lunch at the Smithsonian American Indian Museum’s Mitsitam Cafe. Many consider this “Native foods” experience one of the best museum restaurants anywhere. Later on, visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which is commemorating its 35th anniversary. Dedicated in November 1982, “The Wall” has the names of more than 58,000 veterans inscribed on black granite and is a tangible, poignant symbol of recognition for those who served in the war. 

Evening

For a dining experience rooted in America’s agricultural tradition, try Founding Farmers. This hot spot, the most booked restaurant on OpenTable in America for five years running, bakes their own bread, grinds their own meat, presses their own juices and even churns their own butter. Or consider Old Ebbitt Grill next to The White House. And if casual is your preference – Kramer’s Bookstore and Ben’s Chili Bowl are a must do.

Once back at the Shoreham, reflect on your whirlwind 48 hours with drinks at The Marquee Lounge. Sip on martinis, whiskey, margaritas, signature cocktails or choose from the selection of wine and beer on draught. Later, find a firepit in the backyard and toast s’mores for dessert. What a perfect way to wind down after your whirlwind visit to DC. 

If you have more time...

• Monuments Tour by Night ($)
• Discover the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration ($)
• Explore the Undercroft of the Lincoln Memorial (Free)
• Take in a show at Ford’s Theatre, Warner Theatre, National Theatre or the beloved local spot – The Wooley Mammoth ($)
• Rock Creek Park (Free) | Nature lovers have come to the right place. Omni Shoreham Hotel Washington D.C. sits adjacent to the 1,745-acre Rock Creek Park, the District’s largest park. Founded in 1890, Rock Creek became the country’s third national park. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, bike paths, horseback riding, concerts, boating, history and plenty of nature to enjoy.