Follow this DC itinerary for a trip filled with history, from the Civil War through the Civil Rights Movement.
Day 1: President Lincoln, MLK, A Powerful Smithsonian & Black Lives Matter Plaza
Morning
Begin your day with breakfast at the Willard InterContinental, where Abraham Lincoln stayed prior to his inauguration and where Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote his “I Have a Dream” speech. Freedom Plaza, located opposite the hotel, honor’s King’s legacy. After breakfast, walk down Pennsylvania Avenue to the National Archives. Scan records of Civil War soldiers and learn more about the establishment of the Freedmen’s Bureau. It’s here that Alex Haley conducted the research that led to his landmark work, “Roots.”
Afternoon
A can't-miss experience in Washington, DC is visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. This powerful, history-making museum focuses on understanding history through the viewpoint of the African American experience, featuring collections documenting art, history and culture, covering artifacts from the African Diaspora to present day (the museum is currently closed; visit its website for the latest information.) Next up, make sure to stop by Black Lives Matter Plaza. In June 2020, a portion of 16th Street, just north of Lafayette Square, was transformed into a city-commissioned mural emblazoned with the powerful civil rights message in yellow lettering. The site is an ideal space to reflect on not just DC's Black history, but the country's as a whole.
Evening
From there, head to Ford’s Theatre. Tour the museum that tells the story behind President Lincoln’s fateful visit in 1865 and listen in on a ranger-led interpretive program. Follow John Wilkes Booth’s escape route near 9th and F Streets. Have dinner at a DC classic like the Occidental Grill or Old Ebbitt Grill then hop a cab to the Kennedy Center, which memorializes the former president by celebrating his passion for the arts. End your day with a moonlight visit to the Lincoln Memorial.
Day 2: The Civil War
Morning
Start with a morning visit to Arlington National Cemetery. View the graves of civil rights leader Medgar Evers, John F. Kennedy, along with thousands of notable soldiers and statesmen. A memorial to Robert E. Lee is located inside his hilltop family home, Arlington House. The cemetery’s southern section was once known as Freedmen’s Village and served as a home for freed and fugitive slaves during and following the war.
Afternoon
Make your next stop the National Museum of American History. Among its fascinating treasures: Lincoln’s top hat, the Greensboro lunch counter made famous by sit-ins and the chairs that Lee and Grant sat in during the surrender at Appomattox.
Evening
Head to the National Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian American Art Museum for a light lunch in the Kogod Courtyard Cafe. It’s here the Lincoln hosted his second inaugural ball, and where the last photograph taken of him is on display. Afterwards, take the Metro to U Street. Near the station, you’ll discover the African-American Civil War Memorial, honoring the members of the U.S. Colored Troops that fought for freedom. Duck in to Ben’s Chili Bowl for a chili half-smoke and join the diverse crowds to take in the nightlife on DC’s historic “Black Broadway.”
Day 3: Historic Neighborhoods
Morning
Pay a visit to Cedar Hill, the historic home of abolitionist, statesman and Lincoln confidante Frederick Douglass, and enjoy the stunning views of the DC skyline. The nearby Anacostia Community Museum tells the story of this fascinating neighborhood.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at President Lincoln’s Cottage, the peaceful retreat where Lincoln spent the summers of 1862, 1863 and 1864, and where he penned pieces of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Evening
Take an evening stroll through Georgetown. DC’s oldest neighborhood, Georgetown was home to both Union and Confederate sympathizers during the war. Stop for a bite to eat at a sidewalk cafe or on the scenic waterfront.
Looking for more ideas for your visit to Washington, DC? Explore even more adventures and itineraries here.
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