Our two-day itinerary for visiting Washington, D.C. offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the nation’s most significant artifacts and landmarks. The city boasts numerous museums and memorials, many of which are free. You will also have the opportunity to tour government buildings, savor delicious food, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the United States.
Renting an RV for your Washington, D.C. trip is an excellent idea because RVs provide comfortable accommodations and reliable transportation. You’ll also enjoy the flexibility to choose where you stay overnight, cook your own meals to save money, and have a relaxed schedule, making your visit both convenient and memorable.
Search RV rentals in the Washington, D.C. area.
Preparing for Your Washington, D.C., RV Trip
Whether you want a drivable RV or one you tow behind your vehicle, RVshare rentals near Washington, D.C. will meet your needs. A Class C rig is recommended for those new to RVing and offers a budget-friendly option for families. Class A rigs are larger and often boast amenities such as a private main bedroom, a full kitchen, and a living room area with a flat-screen TV and couches. If you are traveling as a couple, a Class B campervan provides a more intimate experience, and it is easier to get into tight camping spots or parking spaces than the other options.
Our guides can help you determine what type of RV would be best and offer other tips for RV travel:
• RV sizes
• Basics of renting an RV
• Avoid these common mistakes
• RV parking tips
Many campgrounds in the Washington, D.C. area welcome RVs. When searching for the perfect campground, you probably want to look for places that have the amenities important to your group, such as a pool, activities for children, or outdoor recreation opportunities. The Washington D.C./Capitol KOA could be a nice place to stay as it has basketball courts, a jumping pillow, a pool, and free shuttle service to the city. Alternatively, you could camp in Greenbelt RV Park, which features a playground and access to hiking trails.
Find other campground options in our comprehensive list of top-rated campgrounds in Washington, D.C.
Day 1: Get Ready to Learn
Morning: National Archives Museum
At the National Archives Museum, you’ll be able to view the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. You can also see exhibits about the American Revolution. Plan to arrive early to beat the crowds; the museum opens at 10:00 a.m.
Lunch: Eat at the Museum Cafe
Stop by the Mars Cafe on the lower level of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum when you’re ready for a bite to eat. It serves sandwiches, salads, pastries, and drinks.
Afternoon: United States Capitol
The United States Capitol building is open to the public for tours until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Ensure you book your tour ahead of time to secure a spot. During the tour, your guide will show you the Crypt, Rotunda, and National Statuary Hall.
Setting Up Camp:
Stop by the campground office to speak with a staff member when you arrive. Make your way to your campsite, hook up anything that you need to, and start unpacking your gear. If you’d like to maximize time spent in the city, you can rent an RV from an owner who will deliver the RV to your campground and set things up for you. To take advantage of this feature, filter for delivery options when searching for your RV rental.
Dinner: Dine in or Head to Good Stuff Eatery
You could be tired after walking around the city and seeing so many sights in one day. If so, pick up some ingredients from a local grocery store and cook in your RV or roast hot dogs over your campfire. Otherwise, consider stopping by the Good Stuff Eatery in Georgetown for burgers, fries, and shakes.
Day 2: Visit National Sites
Morning: Lincoln Memorial
At the Lincoln Memorial, you’ll be amazed by the towering statue of Abraham Lincoln gazing out over the National Mall. The memorial has inscriptions of Lincoln’s most famous speeches, including the Gettysburg Address. Additionally, the steps offer a panoramic view of the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument.
Lunch: Quarterdeck Restaurant
The Quarterdeck Restaurant has been a staple in Arlington’s Fort Meyer Heights neighborhood since 1979. It serves Maryland Blue Crab when in season, along with many other seafood and American dishes.
Afternoon: Arlington National Cemetery
At Arlington National Cemetery, you’ll be able to pay your respects to those who have served the country. Must-see sites include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the gravesite of President John F. Kennedy.
Evening: Georgetown
Walk the streets of Georgetown, perhaps stopping for a drink or a bite to eat in one of the neighborhood’s many establishments. Shops are typically open in the evening, so you can purchase souvenirs to remember your trip. Before leaving, enjoy fresh air and views of the Potomac River from the Georgetown Waterfront Park.
Day 3 and Beyond in Washington, D.C.
If you extend your trip to Washington, D.C., you’ll have more opportunities to check out more amazing places. There are 17 Smithsonian museums located in Washington D.C., and many federal buildings, like the FBI building, are open for tours, too.
• Visit the Smithsonian National Zoo to see a diverse group of animals from around the world. The zoo is home to elephants, lions, reptiles, exotic birds, and more.
• When you visit the International Spy Museum, you’ll receive a cover identity and have the chance to crack codes and interact with high-tech exhibits. You’ll also learn about famous spies and the gadgets that have helped them achieve their objectives.
Spring Activities
The National Cherry Blossom Festival, which features a parade and other events, takes place in the spring. Alternatively, the Washington Nationals baseball team begins its season, so you might want to grab tickets to a game.
Indoor Activities
If you prefer to stay indoors, you’ll have plenty of options. The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is large enough so that you could spend an entire day looking at its exhibits. You could also visit the Smithsonian American Art Museum to appreciate art from the past few centuries.
In an RV from RVshare, you’ll get to enjoy two days in Washington, D.C. Have fun visiting museums, pay your respects at memorials and other historic sites, and explore the many attractions in the city. Find an RV that will be a good match for your group, pack up your things, and get ready for a memorable trip.
