Start with breakfast at Eastern Market on Capitol Hill, head west past the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress, then follow the National Mall past the Sculpture Garden and the Smithsonian Castle before finishing at the Washington Monument.

Eastern Market
225 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Start your day at the historic Eastern Market, a Capitol Hill staple since 1873. Grab breakfast or a snack from one of the indoor vendors—think fresh pastries, local produce, and small-batch coffee. If it's the weekend, the outdoor flea and arts market is worth a stroll.

U.S. Capitol Grounds
First St SE, Washington, DC 20004
From the market, head west toward the U.S. Capitol. Wander the landscaped Capitol Grounds, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. The views here—of the National Mall stretching toward the Washington Monument—are iconic and perfect for photos.

Library of Congress
101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540
Next, stop by the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world. If you have time, pop inside the Thomas Jefferson Building to admire the stunning architecture and historic reading room.

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
Constitution Ave NW & 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20565
Walk west along the National Mall to the outdoor Sculpture Garden. It's a peaceful spot filled with quirky and impressive modern art. Take a break here—grab a drink at the Pavilion Café or just rest your feet by the fountain.

Smithsonian Castle & Enid A. Haupt Garden
1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560
Cross the Mall to the Smithsonian Castle, the Mall's original museum building. Behind it, the Enid A. Haupt Garden offers a surprising pocket of tranquility with seasonal flowers, shaded benches, and ornate landscaping.

Washington Monument
2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024
A short walk west from the Smithsonian Castle brings you to the Washington Monument, the Mall's most iconic landmark. This towering obelisk honors the nation's first president and offers sweeping views of the city from its observation deck. Surrounded by open green space and a ring of American flags, it's a striking centerpiece of the National Mall.