Get a Washington, DC guide book and head for the Smithsonian.

I'd be bummed. I'm in the District a few times per month and it wouldn't be anything new.

First, I would visit the Smithsonian Zoo. It's under construction but they still have nice exhibits including the pandas and dolphins. The best part is that it's free. Then, I'd take the train downtown and stop by the White House. From there I would walk to Washington Monument. I would proceed to walk through the National Mall to the Capitol. The area is full of Smithsonian Museums. I'm not into art. A lot of people like the Air and Space museum but I personally think that's mediocre. My favorite museum is the American History museum (it is under construction-it will reopen in the summer). After visiting the museums I would pass by the area of Gallery Place/Chinatown and do some shopping in the shopping area next to the Verizon Center. I would then head to Union Station for lunch.

After a nice pizza or burger the next stop would be the Old Post Office Pavillion. It is a lesser known tourist attraction. From there I would head to the FDR memorial. It's a bit of a walk but worth it. After that I would visit the neighborhoods. Georgetown is a trendy area of the city. They have many shops and restaurants. The only caveat is that it's quite a distance from the Metro. Dupont Circle is also a nice spot to hang out. You can take in the sun at the fountain. If you want to visit the mall you can go to Pentagon City, the underground shops at Crystal City, Chevy Chase, or White Flint (all accessible by the Metro).

Use the Metro to get around. It's expensive, but clean, frequent, and fast. Buy the all day pass and try to avoid riding during rush hour since the Red and Orange lines are extremely overcrowded. Have fun!

get a bulletproof vest.