11 days in Washington DC & Los Angeles Itinerary

The capital of the United States, the District of Columbia contains the lion's share of the country's most treasured monuments, memorials, and public museums.

You'll discover tucked-away gems like Dark Hollow Falls and Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Get in touch with nature at Stony Man Mountain Overlook and U.S. National Arboretum. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Washington DC: Gettysburg (Little Round Top, Devils Den, &more) and Hawksbill Mountain (in Shenandoah National Park). There's lots more to do: examine the collection at National Air and Space Museum, take in nature's colorful creations at Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, get to know the fascinating history of The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and pause for some photo ops at Albert Einstein Memorial.

To see maps, where to stay, photos, and more tourist information, you can read our Washington DC trip itinerary planner.

Washington to Washington DC is an approximately 1.5-hour car ride. Traveling from Washington in May, expect somewhat warmer with lows of 58°F in Washington DC. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 18th (Tue) so you can catch the flight to Los Angeles.

Surrounded by mountain ranges, forests, valleys, beaches, and deserts, the metropolitan area of Los Angeles is home to over 17 million people.

Step out of the city life by going to Calboat Diving - Spectre Dive Boat and Runyon Canyon Park. You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at San Clemente Coastal Trail and Newport Beach. Venture out of the city with trips to Crystal Cove (in Laguna Beach), Ventura to Ojai Paved Bike Path (in Ventura) and Salt Creek Beach (in Dana Point). There's lots more to do: admire the masterpieces at The Broad, make a trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, get curious at California Science Center, and admire the landmark architecture of Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Take the guesswork out of planning a Los Angeles vacation by using our trip itinerary maker.

Fly from Washington DC to Los Angeles in 7.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. Traveling from Washington DC to Los Angeles, you'll gain 3 hours due to the time zone difference. Expect a daytime high around 75°F in May, and nighttime lows around 59°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 22nd (Sat) early enough to drive back home.