Timeline
14:15
Start your morning at the United States Botanic Garden. It is one of the least visited attractions on the Mall, making it the perfect place to enjoy the extensive botanical collection in peace before the crowds arrive.
15:15
Walk south to Central Michel Richard for lunch. The chef celebrates his love for American cuisine here with haute versions of simple dishes. It is a great spot to refuel before your next stop.
16:15
Head west to The Phillips Collection. As America’s first museum of modern art, it holds a renowned collection of impressionist and modern works. The walk from the Hirshhorn area is manageable and offers a change of pace.
18:45
Climb to the top of the Old Post Office Tower. You will find one of the best views of the city. Arrive just before golden light begins to make the most of the afternoon illumination.
Local tip
The Botanic Garden is quietest in the morning. The Phillips Collection is a short walk from the Mall area. Check the route for the Old Post Office Tower from there.
Check before you go
- Central Michel Richard is open for lunch Mon-Fri 11:30AM-2:30PM and dinner Mon-Thu 5-10:30PM, Fri Sat 5-11PM.
- The Old Post Office Tower view is best accessed via the Waldorf Astoria Hotel Washington DC.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Washington, D.C. (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).