Itineraries for Your Trip to Washington DC
3 Days in Washington DC for Foodies
I’ve had the privilege of visiting the city—and my family who live there—at least yearly throughout my life. In that time, I’ve been wowed by its museums and monuments, impressed by its distinctive neighborhoods, and enamored by its dynamism and history. But my favorite aspect is its food scene.
Wide-ranging and eclectic, spanning from humble snacks to fine-dining heights, Washington DC’s dining options have never been better. There are the classics (Ben’s Chili Bowl) and the Michelin-starred favorites. You'll eat at cute Georgetown bakeries and eclectic Adams Morgan eateries. And find an array of international restaurants that reflect DC’s global spirit. Here’s how to taste the best of the nation’s capital—all in just three days.
Washington DC gets stifling in summer—if you visit then, prepare for heat.
If you have time for only one thing, make it DC’s U Street, with stops at Ben’s Chili Bowl and Little Ethiopia.
Combine sightseeing with an indulgent introduction to the nation’s capital on a walking tour of Capitol Hill. Though the neighborhood is most famously home to iconic landmarks like the US Capitol, Supreme Court, and other government buildings, it’s also a food lovers' destination. Sample everything from Salvadoran cuisine to soul food.
The historic, charming neighborhood of Georgetown is popular with visitors—and a good next stop on a culinary tour. Take the Blue or Orange Line to Foggy Bottom-GWU to try everything from tacos to Korean fare, falafel to ice cream. (You might spot the former home of legendary cook Julia Child.)
The U Street Corridor—once known as “Black Broadway” and a major mid-20th century African-American cultural hub—is a must-see (and must-eat) destination. A morning walking tour shows off landmarks like the Lincoln Theatre and iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl. Don’t leave before exploring Little Ethiopia's restaurants to sample teff injera and fragrant stews.
Washington DC is a city of neighborhoods, and you won't want to miss diverse, bohemian Adams Morgan. To arrive, hop aboard the Nos. 90 or 96 buses from U Street—or take a cab. Learn about the area's immigrant history on a walking tour and sample everything from Peruvian to Nepalese fare.
Compared to states like California and Washington, Virginia often gets overlooked as a wine destination—but that’s a mistake. Today, the state boasts more than 300 wineries. And they're just a quick trip from DC. Take a vinous day trip to visit three top-rated wineries for tours and tastings.
After returning to the District, keep the good times flowing on a beer tour. Washington DC is a popular craft beer destination, and you can taste a range of styles—and go behind-the-scenes at several breweries—on an evening excursion. (You can also pair your drinks with dinner to help soak up the suds.)
