Single day visit - must-dos?

Question

I'm a solo traveler coming from Texas to visit Six Flags America before it closes. I'll be staying in DC and have one full day to explore the city. I've never been to DC. What are some must-see museums or historical places that I should absolutely hit (aside from stuff like the White House)?

Answer

For a solo traveler with only one full day in Washington DC, you’ll want to focus on a mix of iconic monuments, museums, and historical sites that are walkable or easily accessible via the Metro. DC is very pedestrian-friendly around the National Mall, so you can pack a lot into a single day.

Here are some must-dos and recommendations:

National Mall Monuments: Start early and walk the National Mall to see the key monuments. Must-sees include the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the World War II Memorial. This area provides a great introduction to the history of the U.S. and offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Smithsonian Museums: Pick 1–2 museums depending on your interests. Popular options include:
- National Museum of American History – iconic exhibits like the Star-Spangled Banner and presidential artifacts.
- National Air and Space Museum – perfect if you enjoy aviation, space history, and interactive displays.
- National Museum of Natural History – fascinating for gems, dinosaurs, and human history exhibits.
Holocaust Memorial Museum: A moving and powerful experience, though note it can take a few hours. Timed-entry tickets are recommended.
Capitol Hill Area: If time permits, consider visiting the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress for their stunning architecture. Both are close to the Mall and can be visited quickly.
Optional Stops:
- Smithsonian National Zoo – if you enjoy animals and have some extra time, it’s a free and fun stop.
- Georgetown – charming historic neighborhood with shops, restaurants, and the waterfront if you want a short detour.
- Spy Museum – interactive and fun for history/espionage buffs, though it has an admission fee.

Tips for a solo traveler:

Start early – the Mall and museums can get crowded later in the day.
Use Metro – many sites are near Smithsonian, Federal Triangle, or L’Enfant Plaza stations.
Wear comfortable walking shoes – you’ll cover several miles.
Plan museum visits strategically – prioritize what interests you most since one day is limited.

With careful planning, you can hit the highlights of DC in a single day while leaving time for a few iconic museums and memorials.