Start with the National Mall, where many of DC’s most recognizable memorials and viewpoints are clustered in one iconic stretch. The National Park Service manages this area, which includes the core Mall and surrounding memorial parks. 

If you want maximum “wow” with minimal planning, build your day around the Smithsonian. The Smithsonian is a massive museum network, with many museums located along the National Mall, making it easy to hop between collections. 

Beyond photo ops, Capitol Hill is worth time for its classic DC architecture and the density of “only here” sightseeing. Pair a stroll with stops around the core government district, then explore nearby food and coffee spots when you’re ready to refuel.

Georgetown delivers charming streets and a scenic Potomac River edge, and the waterfront park is a great place for a walk with river views. The park runs along the Potomac and connects into a broader corridor of parkland and trails. 

For a modern waterfront vibe, head to the Capitol Riverfront area near Navy Yard. It’s home to Nationals Park and a growing riverfront scene with paths and places to hang out by the water. 

The U.S. National Arboretum is a quieter, spacious escape for gardens, seasonal color, and long walks. Don’t miss the National Capitol Columns, an iconic photo stop tucked into the grounds. 

A must for aviation and space fans, the National Air and Space Museum is packed with historic artifacts that anchor the story of flight. Signature highlights include the 1903 Wright Flyer and Apollo-era milestones. 

Speed limits vary block to block, so follow posted signs. If you do not see a sign, DC’s default is 20 mph, especially on local streets. rterials and parkways are often posted higher, but it can change quickly near parks, schools, and dense pedestrian areas.

Yes. DC uses automated traffic enforcement for speeding and other violations, so it pays to drive the limit even when the road feels “wide open.”

Metered street parking is common in busy areas, but garages and lots are often the easiest choice for visitors. DDOT’s meter rate structure lists $2.30 per hour citywide, with time limits that vary by location. 

Many neighborhoods use Residential Permit Parking (RPP) rules, where restrictions typically apply Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. If you’re visiting someone in an RPP zone, DC’s Visitor Parking Permits (VPP) are now digital and tied to a license plate through the ParkDC system.

Avoid weekday rush windows (roughly 7–9 a.m. and 4–6:30 p.m.) when congestion builds on key routes into and around downtown. Late morning and early afternoon are usually smoother. Also expect slowdowns during big events or when roads near the National Mall have closures.

• Reagan National (DCA): Typically the quickest airport-to-downtown drive, often via the George Washington Memorial Parkway or I-395 depending on where you’re headed.
• Dulles (IAD): Common routes use I-66 and the Dulles Toll Road. The Dulles Toll Road accepts E-ZPass and has options for drivers without E-ZPass. 
• BWI: A practical option for DC trips, with an approximate travel time of about 45 minutes listed by BWI (traffic can change that).
  

Inside DC, you may not hit tolls often, but the region has tolled express lanes and toll facilities, especially in Northern Virginia. For example, I-66 Express Lanes and I-495 Express Lanes use E-ZPass.

Yes. Some National Park Service park roads in the region, including the George Washington Memorial Parkway, generally restrict trucks, and there are low-clearance bridges to watch for.