How to spend 48 hours in Washington, D.C.

Fuel up after your travels with a delicious snack! Head to Grace Street, a quaint side street that is home to a small food hall that includes a sandwich shop, coffee shop and juice bar. The main attraction, though, is just across the street. Chaia is a locally owned taco shop that sells farm-stand-inspired tacos made entirely with vegetarian ingredients. The tortillas are handmade and taste far superior to those pulled from a plastic bag.

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Stepping into The Mirror on a Friday night feels like uncovering one of D.C.'s best-kept secrets. This hidden speakeasy, tucked away behind an unassuming mirrored door, is where classic elegance meets modern mixology. Once inside, you’re greeted by dim lighting, plush seating, and an ambiance that takes you back to a bygone era. The cocktails are as sophisticated as the setting, with a menu that invites you to explore unique flavors and expertly crafted drinks.

Many D.C. snobs will insist you go to a certain half-smoke slinging diner off of 14th Street, but long-time residents know that the real local gem is Florida Avenue Grill. The greasy spoon has been open since 1944 (the age is evident on some of the worn interior) and has survived riots, gentrification and natural disasters. Load up on pancakes and prepare for a full day ahead.

There’s no shortage of art in D.C. (See The Phillips Collection, the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Renwick Gallery.) But only one museum holds the celebrated portraits of Barack and Michelle Obama, along with the official portraits of other previous U.S. presidents. The National Portrait Gallery celebrates a range of notable persons throughout history. Don’t leave before stopping by the grand Kogord Courtyard.

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Head to Landmark Atlantic Plumbing Cinema for a break from museums. Next door to legendary venue 9:30 Club, the posh movie house has a full bar and plays both blockbuster and independent films. The plush leather seats, which you can reserve in advance, are so comfortable that you might be tempted to drift off while catching a flick.

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You're probably hungry after your movie, so grab a heaping bowl of ramen at Haikan. The trendy noodle joint, from the team behind celebrated izakaya spot Daikaya, is located right next to the theater in the same building. Though the pork-rich broth is a draw, don’t overlook the veggie option, which is as flavorful as meat-laced versions of the meal. A large sake selection makes for a fun time, as does an inventive cocktail list.

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A Saturday night at The Green Zone in Adams Morgan offers a flavorful escape. This Middle Eastern-inspired cocktail bar brings vibrant energy and bold flavors to the heart of D.C. Step inside, and you’re surrounded by the eclectic décor and a lively crowd. The drink menu is packed with creative cocktails featuring ingredients like arak, pomegranate, and za’atar, each one more intriguing than the last. 

Time Out tip: This is a great spot for dancing; DJs spin Arabic and Middle Eastern dance music on weekend nights.

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Wake up bright and early to get in line at Yellow, the in-demand cafe/bakery from Michelin star recipient Michael Rafidi that serves Levantine-inspired pastries, pitas, and coffees in Georgetown. Fuel up on a za'atar croissant sandwich filled with egg, labne, and smoked peppers. Standouts from the pastry case, like the baklava-flavored twice-baked croissant, often sell out, so try to get in line early. This is also the place to go for a drink that's just as tasty as it is beautiful; try the coconut cardamom iced coffee or the Damask rose milk tea. 

Time Out tip: The menu switches from breakfast to lunch at 11am. For lunch, try the chicken shawarma pita with a side of batata tots, bite-sized crispy potatoes flavored with shawarma spices. 

Get your legs moving again by strolling down Wisconsin Avenue to discover one of D.C.’s most celebrated and historic neighborhoods, Georgetown. The stores are a mix of widely known favorites like Anthropologie and Sephora, and locally owned spots like Relish (contemporary designer fashions for women), The Phoenix (homewares), and Ella-Rue (a discerning consignment shop with top-notch second-hand threads). When you're done shopping, head down to the Georgetown Waterfront Park and relax by the Potomac River. 

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To further immerse yourself in the city’s art scene, head to Artechouse in Southwest D.C. The trippy blackbox gallery hosts rotating exhibits that blend futuristic technology with interactive games. The bar serves cocktails that match the exhibit's theme.