Trip report - December 17-22, 2024

Question

I am in Washington, DC now and starting my trip report. My thanks go to Christina, Katy, longhorn74, Octoberitaly and other TA members, who helped me a great deal in preparation to my fourth to our glorious capital.

I frequently travel solo, when my husband goes on strike, so that’s why I am here on my own. His loss, my huge gain!

Here we go: next post will be my Day 1.

Answer

It sounds like you are starting a personal travel report for your trip to Washington, DC from December 17-22, 2024. You’ve expressed gratitude to several TripAdvisor members who assisted you in planning, which is a nice way to acknowledge the helpfulness of the community. Traveling solo, as you mentioned, allows you flexibility and the chance to explore the city at your own pace.

For Day 1 of your trip, a typical solo visitor might plan an itinerary that balances sightseeing with manageable walking and public transit. Since it’s your fourth visit, you may already have favorite spots, but here are some suggestions to make the first day enjoyable:

Start with a classic DC experience: a walk along the National Mall, visiting iconic monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and World War II Memorial.
Consider stopping by the Smithsonian museums. Popular choices for first-day visitors include the National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of American History. Museums are free and provide indoor respite if the weather is cold in December.
Take a break for lunch at a nearby café or food hall. Options near the Mall include the Pavilion Café or the Ronald Reagan Building food court.
In the afternoon, explore the Tidal Basin and check out Jefferson Memorial and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, which offer beautiful views and photo opportunities.
If you have energy in the evening, consider strolling through Georgetown for dinner and a charming historic atmosphere, or explore Penn Quarter for more dining options and nightlife.

Since you are traveling solo, transportation logistics are simpler. Walking is ideal around the Mall area, and short rides via Metro or rideshare can help if you venture further. December evenings in DC can be chilly, so dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes is advisable.

Overall, your first day can combine sightseeing, museum visits, and enjoying the city’s historic ambiance. The goal is to keep the pace enjoyable and to savor the flexibility that solo travel offers.

For subsequent days, you might plan visits to Capitol Hill, the U.S. Botanic Garden, Embassy Row, or neighborhood explorations in Adams Morgan or Dupont Circle. Each day can mix iconic sights with quieter, less crowded areas to balance energy and maximize your solo experience.

Trip report - December 17-22, 2024

More Washington DC Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions