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A First Time Guide to the National Mall 

Daycation DC 

Things to do

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1. Monument Walking Tour 

Get off at the Smithsonian Metro stop and head down Independence Ave toward the Lincoln Memorial. Then return on Constitution Ave toward the Capitol. The end to end walk takes about 45 minutes one way. 

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2. Constitution Gardens

Don't miss Constitution Gardens on your walk near the reflecting pool. This spot is often overlooked by tourists but you can see the signatures of the Founding Fathers carved in stone.  

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3. Lunch at the Pavilion Cafe 

Take a break in the Sculpture Garden outside the National Gallery of Art with snacks from the Pavilion Café. Open 11 am to 3 pm. 

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4. Museum of Natural History

Visit the Museum of Natural History, one of the most recognized Smithsonian museums. Don't miss gems and fossils of dinosaurs and ocean creatures.  

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If you still have time, check out the Hirshhorn Museum or the National Gallery of Art - East Building. Both are free and feature fun contemporary art pieces. 

5. Enjoy The Arts

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