Begin your shopping tour at the historical Union Station. Built in 1907, Union Station is a fine example of the Beaux-Arts style of architecture and boasts over 100 places to eat, drink and shop. You can find just about anything your heart desires. Shops include everything from accessories and fine jewelry to men's and women's fashion to specialty shops that display our nation's pride to delicious candies, sweets and chocolate. Visit their website for specific stores and hours.
Browse the Smithsonian for products that reflect our nation's past, vibrant art of the present and museum treasures. Peruse genuine pottery and jewelry handmade by Native artists at the National Museum of the American Indian. If you are short on time, the Smithsonian stores at Reagan National and Dulles International Airports, along with Smithsonian Treasures of the World at Newark Airport, offer a wide range of choices from elegant jewelry to delightful toys and souvenirs.
Check out Tyson's Corner Center, located just 7 miles west of Washington DC. One of the largest shopping malls in the U.S., Tyson's Corner offers over 300 department and specialty stores, including anchor stores like Macy's, Lord and Taylor, Nordstrom and Bloomingdales. Specialty stores include the English Trading Company, Brighten Collectibles and Brookstone to name a few. Get the most from your shopping experience at Tyson's and book a customized shopping package before your trip; packages range from "Shop and Play" for $15 to "Shop and Beauty" for $60.
Visit Eastern Market in Capitol Hill. Eastern Market, built in 1873, is Washington DC's last 19th century open market in operation. Buy art at Market 5 Gallery during the week or enjoy what the weekend has to offer with the farmer's market, the Market Festival and Arts and Crafts Fair and the Flea Market.
Hang out in Georgetown for the day. Home of the Georgetown Flea Market--open on Sundays only where you can find great deals on antiques, furniture, china, silver and jewelry, rugs and other collectibles. Afterwards, browse the Shops of Georgetown Park and enjoy high-end fashion, specialty stores and eateries. Stores include Crabtree and Evelyn, Dean and Deluca and F.A.O. Schwarz.
Head across the Potomac to Arlington, Virginia. Home of the Pentagon and the National Cemetery and just minutes away from the Capitol, Arlington malls include the world-class Fashion Center at the Pentagon, The Crystal City Shops and Boston Common Mall.
Conclude your shopping extravaganza at Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets. Buy designer at not-so-designer prices with a vast selection of fine leather and luggage like Coach and Kate Spade, housewares and home furnishings and designer fashions and sportswear like Barney's New York, Benetton, Burberry and Versace. The outlet also sells fine jewelry and accessories like Movado and Tag Heuer.