Thanksgiving Trip

Question

Hello, thinking about a trip over Thanksgiving. Tentatively Tuesday thru Saturday. From what I can see, most museums and such are open over the holiday. Does anyone have any experiences on going over the holiday? Would like to take in as many museums and such as we can squeeze in.

Thanks so much!

Answer

Visiting Washington DC over Thanksgiving can be a fantastic experience, as many of the major museums and cultural sites remain open, but there are a few things to consider for planning your trip effectively. The city tends to be quieter than peak summer months, which makes it easier to explore popular attractions without overwhelming crowds. However, some restaurants, shops, and smaller attractions may close for the holiday itself, so it’s important to plan around that.

Most Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History, and National Museum of Natural History, typically remain open on the holiday and the surrounding days, though some may have limited hours. The National Gallery of Art, National Museum of African American History and Culture, and other major institutions also usually operate on regular schedules. Outdoor monuments and memorials, of course, are accessible any day.

For a family-focused or museum-intensive itinerary, you might consider organizing your days by area to minimize travel time and maximize visits:

Day 1 (Tuesday/arrival day): Settle in and take an evening stroll along the National Mall to see the monuments, such as Lincoln, Jefferson, and the WWII Memorial. This can be less crowded in the evening.
Day 2 (Wednesday): Dedicate the day to the Smithsonian museums along the National Mall, grouping them by proximity. For example, start with the National Museum of American History, then the National Museum of Natural History, followed by a walk past the Washington Monument.
Day 3 (Thanksgiving Day): Many museums are open, but double-check hours. Consider visiting outdoor memorials and monuments since they are accessible and free. You may want to book a Thanksgiving brunch or lunch at a hotel or restaurant ahead of time, as options can fill up quickly.
Day 4 (Friday): Explore museums or galleries that may be less crowded, such as the National Gallery of Art or the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Consider booking timed-entry tickets for special exhibits.
Day 5 (Saturday/departure day): If time allows, visit any remaining attractions or enjoy a walk through neighborhoods like Georgetown or Capitol Hill, which offer shops and local eateries.

Additional tips for a Thanksgiving visit:

Public transportation and parking are generally easier over the holiday week, but still allow extra time for security lines at popular museums.
Book any special exhibitions, shows, or timed-entry tickets in advance, especially if your visit overlaps with the holiday weekend.
Check museum websites for holiday hours, as some may close early on Thanksgiving Day or have different schedules.
Consider early morning visits to popular sites to avoid mid-day crowds, especially at the National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of Natural History.

Overall, Thanksgiving in DC allows for a rich mix of indoor and outdoor activities, with generally manageable crowds and the opportunity to see the city’s highlights efficiently. Planning ahead for meals and specific museum hours will make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.

Thanksgiving Trip

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