AI tools such as ChatGPT can be incredibly helpful for planning travel! While I plan to write a more in-depth blog post on this in the future, I wanted to share an example from a recent trip I took to Washington, D.C. I was there for three days for a conference, with a packed schedule and a few specific places I hoped to visit during my short stay. ChatGPT helped me make the most of my brief visit to this incredible city.

Optimizing a Busy Schedule
Here’s the prompt I gave ChatGPT to help me make the most of my time:
Prompt:
"Help me optimize my time in Washington, DC. I'm currently at Hotel Zena, and have to be at the Westin Downtown (999 9th St) from 4-5 pm. I have an evening tour from 7:30-10. Tomorrow I will be at the Westin Downtown (999 9th St) from 9 am-5 pm. My flight leaves tomorrow at 10:26 from DCA. I'd like to squeeze in a trip to Arlington Cemetery (open from 8 am to 5 pm) and some time at the Library of Congress (closes at 8:30 pm)."
Here’s the plan ChatGPT provided:
ChatGPT Response:
Here’s a plan to optimize your time in Washington, DC, around your commitments:
Today:
Before 4 PM (Pre-Westin Meeting):
Depending on how much time you have, you could visit a nearby site like Dupont Circle (10-15 min walk from Hotel Zena), or explore the National Mall (about a 20 min walk or a quick taxi/Uber ride). You could visit the Washington Monument or Lincoln Memorial, both fairly quick sights to see.
If you prefer something indoors, check out the Smithsonian American Art Museum or the National Portrait Gallery, which are both close to the Westin.
4 PM - 5 PM: Meeting at Westin Downtown.
After 5 PM until 7:30 PM (Pre-Evening Tour):
Walk or take a ride to the Library of Congress. It’s about a 10-15 min car ride from the Westin, giving you about an hour or so to explore before heading to your tour.
Alternatively, you could have a leisurely dinner or stroll around the National Mall before your 7:30 pm tour.
7:30 PM - 10 PM: Evening tour.
After 10 PM (Post-Tour):
You could head back to the Library of Congress if you haven't already, as it stays open until 8:30 pm. Otherwise, you can wind down at a nearby spot like the Watergate Hotel rooftop or a low-key bar near your hotel.
Tomorrow:
Morning Before 9 AM:
Head out early to Arlington Cemetery (opens at 8 am). It’s about a 15-20 minute ride from Hotel Zena, and you can explore for about 30-45 minutes before returning to the Westin for your meeting.
9 AM - 5 PM: Meeting at Westin Downtown.
After 5 PM (Before Flight):
If you haven't visited the Library of Congress yet, this is a perfect time for a visit before your flight, as it's open until 8:30 pm. You'll have about 2 hours to explore.
Flight at 10:26 PM:
You should aim to leave for DCA around 8:45-9 PM to ensure enough time for security and check-in.
This plan ensures you can see key sights while fitting in your scheduled events
This plan helped me maximize my limited free time by incorporating key sights while staying realistic about my commitments.
A Broader Itinerary Approach
If you’re less constrained by a tight schedule, ChatGPT can help you create a more general itinerary. For example, here’s what it suggested when I asked for a 3-day itinerary in Washington, D.C.:
Prompt:
"I have 3 days to spend in Washington, DC. Help me develop an itinerary that allows me to visit some of the main sites."
ChatGPT Response:
That sounds exciting! Washington, DC is packed with historical landmarks, museums, and iconic sites. Here's a 3-day itinerary that will help you experience the best of the city while giving you time to explore some of its hidden gems.
Day 1: National Mall & Monuments
Start your DC experience with the classic landmarks. The National Mall area is home to several of the country's most famous monuments and memorials.
Morning:
Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Founding Farmers or Old Ebbitt Grill.
National World War II Memorial: Begin at the WWII Memorial, located at the east end of the Reflecting Pool.
Lincoln Memorial: Walk along the Reflecting Pool to the iconic Lincoln Memorial. Be sure to take in the view of the National Mall and the Washington Monument from here.
Vietnam War Memorial: Walk along the mall toward the Vietnam War Memorial, which is a deeply moving tribute.
Late Morning:
Korean War Veterans Memorial: Just across from the Vietnam Memorial, this is a powerful and solemn monument.
Washington Monument: Continue east toward the Washington Monument. If you want to go to the top for panoramic views of the city, be sure to get tickets in advance as they tend to sell out quickly.
Lunch:
Head to The Hamilton or Martin’s Tavern for a traditional DC lunch.
Afternoon:
U.S. Capitol Building: Walk or take a short metro ride to the U.S. Capitol. If you have time, take a guided tour to learn about the legislative process and the history of this iconic building.
Smithsonian Museums: Spend the afternoon exploring some of the museums on the National Mall. You can’t go wrong with any of them, but I’d recommend:
National Museum of American History for a look at American culture, politics, and innovation.
National Air and Space Museum (if you're into aviation and space exploration).
National Museum of Natural History for exhibits on everything from fossils to gemstones.
Dinner:
For a great dining experience, try Jaleo (for tapas) or Zaytinya (Mediterranean cuisine).
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Day 2: Memorials, Museums, and Georgetown
Today, you'll visit more memorials and museums, and take a stroll through one of DC’s most charming neighborhoods.
Morning:
Breakfast: Start with breakfast at The District Doughnut or Founding Farmers.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Begin your morning with a visit to the MLK Memorial, a powerful site located near the Tidal Basin.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial: Nearby is the FDR Memorial, which spans four outdoor rooms and covers his presidency.
Late Morning:
Jefferson Memorial: Walk along the Tidal Basin to the Jefferson Memorial, one of DC's most striking landmarks.
Lunch:
Grab a bite at The Wharf, an excellent spot for seafood. Hank’s Oyster Bar or Seamore’s are great options.
Afternoon:
National Gallery of Art (West Building): Head back toward the Mall and explore the West Building of the National Gallery, which focuses on European and American paintings from the Renaissance to the 1800s.
Newseum or International Spy Museum: If you’re into journalism or espionage, consider spending an hour at either of these fascinating museums (the Newseum has unfortunately closed, but the Spy Museum is a great alternative).
Late Afternoon:
Georgetown: Take a short ride to Georgetown, a charming neighborhood known for its historic streets, boutique shops, and picturesque waterfront. You can take a walk along the C&O Canal or through Georgetown University campus.
Dinner:
Try The Hamilton (if you didn’t on Day 1) or Filomena Ristorante in Georgetown for an Italian feast. Blue Duck Tavern in West End is also an excellent upscale option.
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Day 3: Art, Culture, and Neighborhoods
On your final day, you’ll get to experience more museums, plus explore some of DC’s other iconic neighborhoods.
Morning:
Breakfast: Grab a quick breakfast at Baked & Wired in Georgetown or Compass Coffee.
National Museum of African American History and Culture: This museum is incredibly impactful and educational. It’s one of the newest and most popular museums on the Mall, so be sure to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Late Morning:
Smithsonian Castle: After the African American History museum, visit the Smithsonian Castle for a beautiful view of the National Mall and to learn about the Smithsonian Institution itself.
Lunch:
Head to The Hamilton or Old Ebbitt Grill for a classic DC lunch.
Afternoon:
Explore the National Zoo: A relaxing and fun afternoon option is the Smithsonian National Zoo, located in the Woodley Park neighborhood. You’ll see pandas, elephants, and a wide variety of animals. It's a peaceful spot if you need some downtime.
Explore Dupont Circle: Head to Dupont Circle, a charming area with eclectic cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. Be sure to check out the Phillips Collection, a museum of modern art, if you're an art lover.
Late Afternoon:
Capitol Hill Neighborhood: Take a stroll around Capitol Hill, one of DC’s most charming residential neighborhoods. Visit Eastern Market, a historic public market that’s filled with local produce, meats, and crafts. It’s also a great spot for souvenirs.
Dinner:
Try The Occidental Grill & Seafood near the White House for an upscale seafood dinner or RPM Italian for a chic Italian dining experience.
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Additional Tips:
Transportation: The DC Metro is easy to navigate and connects most major attractions. Walking is also a great way to see the city.
Timing: Some museums are closed on certain days, so check their hours before you go. Also, allow extra time for security checks at the monuments and museums.
Weather: Check the forecast and plan accordingly—if it’s sunny, don’t forget sunscreen for the outdoor monuments!
With this itinerary, you’ll experience the highlights of Washington, DC, while getting a good mix of history, culture, and local flavor. Enjoy your trip!
This example showcases how ChatGPT can design a balanced plan that includes famous landmarks, museums, and great dining spots, with flexibility for personalization.

Finding the Perfect Hotel
ChatGPT can also provide tailored hotel recommendations based on your preferences. For instance, here’s what it suggested when I asked about hotel options:
Prompt:
"Do you have any hotel recommendations?"
ChatGPT Response:
Absolutely! Washington, DC offers a variety of hotels to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some great options, ranging from luxury to mid-range and boutique choices. All of these are conveniently located for easy access to the city's major landmarks.
Luxury Hotels:
1. The Willard InterContinental
o Location: 1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW
o Why: This iconic 5-star hotel is just a short walk from the White House and the National Mall. With a rich history, luxurious rooms, and top-notch service, it's a DC staple. It also has a fantastic restaurant, The Willard Room, and a renowned lobby bar, The Peacock Alley.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown
o Location: 3100 South St NW
o Why: Located in the historic Georgetown neighborhood, this Ritz-Carlton offers a mix of historic charm and modern luxury. With a stunning courtyard, sophisticated rooms, and a relaxing spa, it’s a great choice if you want a more serene, boutique feel while being close to both downtown and the riverfront.
3. The Hay-Adams
o Location: 800 16th St NW
o Why: Just across from the White House, this hotel offers superb views, elegant interiors, and exceptional service. It’s a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern luxury, with a renowned rooftop bar offering spectacular views of the National Mall.
Mid-Range Hotels:
4. The Darcy Hotel
o Location: 1515 Rhode Island Ave NW
o Why: Located just a short walk from the White House and the National Mall, The Darcy offers modern rooms with a cozy, boutique feel. It has a great vibe with a nice mix of affordability and comfort. The hotel also has a trendy bar and restaurant, The Doyle.
5. Hotel Hive
o Location: 1315 16th St NW
o Why: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly, yet stylish option, Hotel Hive offers compact rooms with a minimalist design. It’s close to the Foggy Bottom and West End neighborhoods and a quick walk to the White House and National Mall. Plus, it has a cool rooftop bar.
6. The Hamilton Hotel
o Location: 1001 14th St NW
o Why: Located near the White House and the National Mall, this hotel offers a good combination of convenience, comfort, and a central location. It has spacious rooms, a vibrant atmosphere, and an excellent restaurant, The Hamilton, known for its classic American fare.
Boutique Hotels:
7. The LINE Hotel
o Location: 1770 Euclid St NW (Adams Morgan)
o Why: A trendy hotel with an artsy vibe, The LINE is located in the vibrant Adams Morgan neighborhood. It features cool design elements, a cozy lobby with a fireplace, and an excellent rooftop bar. It’s a little farther from the National Mall but offers a unique local experience and a lively neighborhood atmosphere.
8. Eaton DC
o Location: 1201 K St NW
o Why: This chic, eco-friendly hotel is known for its forward-thinking design, wellness amenities, and community-focused vibe. Located near downtown, it’s a great base for exploring the city while offering a cool mix of art and sustainability. Plus, the rooftop bar offers amazing views of the city.
9. Kimpton George Hotel
o Location: 15 E Street NW
o Why: Situated near Capitol Hill, the Kimpton George offers a stylish, comfortable, and modern experience with a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Its close proximity to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress makes it ideal for those who want to explore the political heart of the city.
Budget Hotels/Hostels:
10. Pod DC Hotel
• Location: 627 H St NW
• Why: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Pod DC offers compact rooms with a modern, minimalist design. It’s in a prime location, within walking distance of the National Mall, museums, and restaurants. It also has a rooftop bar for evening relaxation.
11. HI Washington DC Hostel
• Location: 1009 11th St NW
• Why: For a budget-friendly option with a social vibe, this hostel offers dorm-style rooms and private rooms. It’s located near the White House and is perfect for travelers who want to meet others and enjoy affordable accommodations without compromising on the central location.
Neighborhood Considerations:
• Downtown (Near the National Mall): If you want to be within walking distance of the main monuments and museums, staying near Pennsylvania Avenue or Constitution Avenue (such as near The Willard, The Hamilton, or The Hay-Adams) is a great choice. This area is also close to many dining and shopping options.
• Georgetown: If you prefer a more historic and charming area, Georgetown has a lovely blend of upscale hotels (like The Ritz-Carlton) and boutique options. It’s a picturesque area with great shops, cafes, and the waterfront.
• Capitol Hill/NoMa: If you're interested in staying near the U.S. Capitol or prefer a quieter, more residential area, the Capitol Hill neighborhood is an excellent choice, with hotels like Kimpton George and The Liaison. The NoMa (North of Massachusetts Avenue) district is also a great option for a trendy, slightly quieter stay.
Proximity to Attractions:
• If your focus is on seeing the monuments, museums, and landmarks, staying near the National Mall or the White House will be most convenient.
• For a more vibrant, youthful vibe with boutique shops and local restaurants, Georgetown and Dupont Circle are excellent neighborhoods.
• For quieter, more residential vibes with easy access to local cafes and parks, Capitol Hill and Adams Morgan offer a more laid-back experience.
Let me know if you’d like more details about any of these hotels, or if you have a specific area in mind!
As you can see, ChatGPT offers a variety of options across different budgets. To receive even more tailored recommendations, you can include your budget directly in your prompt.
Additionally, you can specify other constraints to refine the results further. For instance, if you’re looking for pet-friendly accommodations, ChatGPT can adjust its suggestions to match your needs more precisely:
Prompt:
"I'm traveling with my dog—any hotel recommendations that allow pets?"
ChatGPT Response
That’s great to know! Washington, DC is generally very pet-friendly, and many hotels welcome dogs (often with some additional pet fees or policies). Here are some excellent pet-friendly hotel options in DC where your dog will be just as comfortable as you:
Luxury & Boutique Hotels:
1. The Willard InterContinental
o Location: 1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW
o Why: This iconic hotel is not only luxurious but also pet-friendly! They welcome dogs (under 25 pounds) with a pet fee, and you’ll find dog-friendly amenities like pet beds and bowls in your room. They also have a great location near the National Mall, so you can easily take your dog for walks.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown
o Location: 3100 South St NW
o Why: This Ritz-Carlton offers a luxurious stay for you and your pet. They welcome dogs of all sizes with a fee, and the hotel is in a lovely, walkable area near Georgetown’s waterfront. Plus, the hotel provides a dog bed, bowls, and even a special treat for your furry friend!
3. Kimpton Hotel Monaco
o Location: 700 F St NW
o Why: Kimpton hotels are known for their pet-friendly policies, and the Monaco is no exception. They allow dogs of any size, with no extra charges or weight restrictions. They even provide a pet concierge to help you with dog walking and other pet-related needs, as well as treats and pet beds in the room.
4. The LINE Hotel
o Location: 1770 Euclid St NW (Adams Morgan)
o Why: A trendy, artsy hotel in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, The LINE is very pet-friendly. They welcome dogs for a small fee and even provide dog beds, bowls, and other amenities. Adams Morgan is a dog-friendly neighborhood with lots of parks, making it perfect for dog walks.
5. The Hamilton Hotel
o Location: 1001 14th St NW
o Why: A central location near the National Mall and a welcoming environment for pets, The Hamilton allows dogs up to 50 pounds with a pet fee. This hotel is known for its excellent service and comfortable rooms, making it a great option for both you and your pup.
Mid-Range Hotels:
6. Hotel Hive
o Location: 1315 16th St NW
o Why: This trendy, budget-friendly boutique hotel in Foggy Bottom is perfect for pet owners. They allow dogs up to 40 pounds and offer amenities such as pet beds and bowls. The location is great for exploring, with parks nearby, and it’s just a short walk to the National Mall.
7. The Darcy Hotel
o Location: 1515 Rhode Island Ave NW
o Why: This stylish hotel near the White House is pet-friendly and welcomes dogs up to 40 pounds. The hotel offers dog beds and bowls, and the staff is happy to provide recommendations for nearby dog-friendly parks. The Darcy is also in a convenient location for sightseeing.
8. Avenue Suites Georgetown
o Location: 2500 Pennsylvania Ave NW
o Why: This all-suite hotel in Georgetown offers comfortable accommodations for both you and your dog. They allow dogs up to 25 pounds with a fee and offer amenities such as pet beds, bowls, and treats. Georgetown is full of parks and dog-friendly spots, perfect for walking your dog.
9. The Graham Georgetown
o Location: 1075 Thomas Jefferson St NW
o Why: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Georgetown, The Graham is pet-friendly, allowing dogs of any size with a one-time pet fee. There’s also a rooftop bar with views of the Potomac River where your dog can accompany you as you relax after a day of sightseeing.
Budget-Friendly/Hostels:
10. Pod DC Hotel
• Location: 627 H St NW
• Why: Pod DC is an affordable option in the vibrant Penn Quarter neighborhood. They allow dogs (under 25 pounds) for a small fee. The rooms are compact but well-designed, and the hotel is close to several parks and dog-friendly spaces.
11. HI Washington DC Hostel
• Location: 1009 11th St NW
• Why: If you're traveling on a budget and want to stay in a social, communal setting, the HI Washington DC Hostel is a solid choice. They accept dogs for a small fee and have designated pet-friendly rooms. The location is central, with quick access to the National Mall and many pet-friendly areas.
Neighborhood Considerations:
• Georgetown: This charming, dog-friendly neighborhood has a lot of parks and green spaces perfect for dog walks. It’s also close to the waterfront, and several of the hotels in Georgetown (like The Ritz-Carlton and The Graham) are pet-friendly.
• Dupont Circle: A great neighborhood for pet owners due to its proximity to dog-friendly cafes and parks. The Dupont Circle Dog Park is just a short walk away, and hotels like The Darcy and The Kimpton are centrally located.
• Adams Morgan: This eclectic, vibrant neighborhood is great for both you and your dog. The LINE Hotel is a great choice in this area, which has multiple dog-friendly bars, cafes, and parks.
• Capitol Hill: For a quieter, residential experience, Capitol Hill offers a number of pet-friendly hotels like Kimpton George and The Liaison. The area has several parks, including Lincoln Park, which is a great spot for dog walks.
Pet-Friendly Perks to Look For:
• Dog beds, bowls, and treats provided by the hotel.
• Pet concierge services to help with dog walking and recommendations for pet-friendly spots.
• Nearby parks and dog-friendly areas like Rock Creek Park, The National Mall, Dupont Circle Dog Park, and Lincoln Park.
• No additional pet fees or low fees—be sure to confirm the exact fee when booking.
Tips:
• Check Policies: Some hotels have weight limits (usually around 25-50 pounds), so be sure to verify your dog’s size and any additional fees when booking.
• Pet Amenities: If your dog has special needs, consider calling ahead to see if the hotel offers additional services like dog-sitting, grooming, or dog walking.
With this selection of dog-friendly hotels, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip to DC while knowing your dog is well cared for and welcome. Let me know if you need more information or have any other specific requirements!
ChatGPT once again delivers a variety of hotel recommendations across different budget ranges. It even includes perks and travel tips tailored specifically for travelers with pets!

Tips for Using ChatGPT for Travel
- Be Specific: Provide clear details about your schedule, preferences, and interests to get the most useful recommendations. If you’re traveling with pets or children, or have dietary or budget restrictions, include that information in your prompt!
- Use It as a Starting Point: ChatGPT’s suggestions are great for inspiration, but always double-check availability, opening hours, and other details before finalizing your plans.
- Ask Follow-Up Questions: If the initial response isn’t quite right, ask for adjustments, like narrowing down hotels based on budget or adding activities for specific neighborhoods.
Whether you’re optimizing a packed schedule, planning a relaxed family getaway, or searching for the ideal pet-friendly hotel, ChatGPT makes an excellent travel companion. Let AI take some of the stress out of your next trip—give it a try!
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