Use Our Guide to Plan a Romantic Washington, DC, Honeymoon

A Washington, DC, honeymoon might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a romantic getaway, but it's actually a great pick for couples who want to take a trip without leaving the US. You can spend mornings exploring iconic monuments hand in hand, afternoons wandering through trendy neighborhoods, and evenings enjoying fine dining or cocktails with a view. Unlike more traditional beach or resort getaways, this honeymoon destination gives you the chance to curate a trip that's all your own.

What makes Washington especially fun for newlyweds is its variety—you can find so many things to do on your honeymoon here, which we'll go into detail on below. That being said, read on for our guide and start planning your honeymoon in DC with The Knot.

Washington, DC honeymoon tips in this article:

• Is Washington, DC, Good for a Honeymoon?
• The Best Time to Honeymoon in Washington, DC
• Washington, DC, Honeymoon Planning Tips
• Best Washington, DC, Honeymoon Hotels and Suites
• Washington, DC, Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
• What to Pack for a Washington, DC, Honeymoon

Is Washington, DC, Good for a Honeymoon?

If you're up for a honeymoon that's a little different from the usual beach trip, DC is a really fun option. It's packed with things to see and do, but also has plenty of romance to discover together.

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Pros of a Washington, DC, Honeymoon

The best thing about DC is that there's so much variety packed into this city. You can wander the monuments, cozy up together at a wine bar or spend the day strolling through Georgetown's cobblestone streets. It's pretty easy to get around, too, and if you want a quick change of scenery, wine country and waterfront escapes are a short drive away.

Cons of a Washington, DC, Honeymoon

On the flip side, DC doesn't necessarily have that classic honeymoon feel. If you're looking for palm trees and beachfront resorts, you'll need to look elsewhere. It's also a pretty busy city with lots of tourists, so some spots can feel a little crowded. And depending on when you go, the weather can be tricky. Summers are hot and sticky, and winters can be super cold, which might not be what you're looking for right after your wedding.

The Best Time to Honeymoon in Washington, DC

Spring is hands down the most romantic season in DC. You'll get to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom around the Tidal Basin, and the mild weather makes walking the city a breeze. If timing works out, you could also line up your honeymoon with the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Fall is another sweet spot, with crisp air, colorful foliage and fewer crowds compared to summer, making it a fab time for couples who want to explore without the hustle. Both seasons are great options for a honeymoon.

Washington, DC, Honeymoon Planning Tips

When planning a honeymoon, it helps to start with the kind of vibe you want. If you're foodies, book a few reservations at the top honeymoon restaurants in DC, or explore neighborhoods known for their culinary scene (like Dupont Circle or U Street). If you're more into history and culture, you can map out must-see monuments, Smithsonian museums and spots like the Library of Congress or the Hillwood Estate.

Most of the city is walkable and the Metro is easy to navigate, so you won't necessarily need a car unless you're planning day trips to nearby wine country or the Chesapeake Bay. Speaking of which, sprinkling in a day outside the city can make your honeymoon feel extra special.

To make the planning process even easier, consider using The Knot Vendor Marketplace. You can connect with honeymoon planners who know DC inside and out and help you create an itinerary that matches your style.

Best Washington, DC, Honeymoon Hotels and Suites

Finding the right place to stay for your honeymoon in Washington, DC, can set the tone for your whole trip. Here are a few options you should definitely consider.

Hotel Hive

Photo: Hotel Hive

If you like the idea of intimate accommodations, Hotel Hive is a micro-hotel that offers just that. Set in a historic building in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, artsy couples will love the space, vibe and location of this top-notch hotel in Washington, DC. There's also a rooftop bar on-site, so you won't have to venture far for drinks with a great view.

2224 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20037

4.9 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Canal House of Georgetown, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Photo: Canal House of Georgetown

Canal House sits in the center of Georgetown, steps from the historic C&O Canal, with sophisticated suites, a library lounge and a private courtyard. It's an uber-stylish retreat for honeymooners that feels both intimate and rooted in one of DC's most iconic neighborhoods.

1023 31st Street NW, Washington, DC, 20007

4.7 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The Jefferson

Photo: The Jefferson

With just 99 rooms and suites, refined design and amazing dining, The Jefferson is a gorgeous home base for a honeymoon in Washington, DC. It's within walking distance of DC's most famous landmarks and provides fantastic service, quiet moments and a romantic vibe.

1200 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036

4.8 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Riggs Washington DC

Photo: Riggs Washington DC

Riggs Washington DC is a boutique hotel in Penn Quarter housed in a historic former bank building, with 181 rooms and suites, an all-day café, a stunning cocktail bar and rooftop views. It's great for newlyweds who want to stay somewhere with character, excellent food and drinks and a fantastic location.

900 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

4.6 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The Dupont Circle

Photo: The Dupont Circle

Set on Dupont Circle, this landmark hotel puts you steps from embassies, galleries, museums and some of DC's best cafés and shops. Inside, you'll find stylish decor, spacious rooms and suites with city views worthy of a Washington, DC, honeymoon.

1500 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 20036

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Washington, DC, Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

Not sure where to start when it comes to planning your honeymoon? Well, fortunately, there are plenty of things to do in Washington, DC. Here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling.

Stroll the Monuments at Night

Seeing the monuments during the day is impressive, but at night they're breathtaking. The Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are beautifully lit, and the crowds thin out, so it feels more intimate. You can walk between them hand in hand, or even book a moonlit monument tour to take in the whole experience without the daytime bustle.

4.7 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Explore Georgetown's Waterfront

Georgetown is a great place to explore for a romantic afternoon together. For this Washington, DC, honeymoon idea, start with shopping on M Street, then wander down to the waterfront for a stroll along the Potomac River. You can arrange a walking tour or just enjoy dinner with a view at spots like Fiola Mare.

4.9 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Spend a Day at the Smithsonian Museums

With so many Smithsonian museums (and free admission!), you can spend a day curating your own cultural adventure. Whether you're into art at the National Gallery of Art or history at the National Museum of American History, there's something for every couple. If you'd rather keep it light, pick two or three favorites and save the rest for another trip.

Take a Day Trip to Virginia Wine Country

Just an hour outside DC, you'll find rolling hills and award-winning wineries in Northern Virginia. Spend a day trying out local blends, indulging in cheese boards and taking in the scenic countryside. Popular spots like Stone Tower Winery and Boxwood Estate make for a dreamy honeymoon escape from the city.

Catch a Show at the Kennedy Center

For a classic date night, dress up and head to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. From symphonies and ballet to Broadway tours and jazz, the lineup is always impressive. Even if you don't see a show, the rooftop terrace has stunning views of the Potomac River, in case you're looking for a way to enjoy a sunset moment together.

4.6 Star Rating | Read Reviews

What to Pack for a Washington, DC, Honeymoon

Packing for DC really depends on the season, but a general rule of thumb is that comfort is key. Bring stylish but walkable shoes, since you'll likely explore monuments, museums and neighborhoods on foot. Layers are a good idea because spring and fall can shift from warm afternoons to cool evenings.

Summers call for light, breathable fabrics (and maybe a hat and sunscreen), and winters require a good coat, gloves and warm outfits for nighttime strolls. You'll also want a few dressier looks for romantic dinners or nights out, plus a small day bag for carrying essentials while sightseeing. And don't forget the extras that make a trip smoother, like an umbrella for surprise showers, a portable phone charger for all the photos you'll be taking and a reusable water bottle to keep you hydrated as you explore.