Washington, D.C., is a fantastic place to visit with kids. The city is filled with fun activities and interesting sights that are perfect for families. From museums and historic landmarks to outdoor parks, there’s something for everyone. Whether your kids are interested in history, science, or just having fun, you’ll find plenty to see and do in this vibrant capital.
Local attractions like the National Air and Space Museum and the National Zoo offer exciting educational experiences that kids will love. Outdoor spaces like the National Mall are perfect for picnics and playtime. Strolling past famous landmarks, feeling the hustle of the city, and enjoying guided tours will create lasting memories. Visiting D.C. with kids feels like a big adventure, filled with wonder and excitement at every turn.
Things To Do In Washington Dc With Kids
1. Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum on the National Mall
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is a fascinating place to explore aviation and space history. Visitors can see famous aircraft and spacecraft, including the Apollo 11 Command Module. It’s amazing to walk among the incredible machines that changed our world.
At the museum, you can enjoy interactive displays and even touch a moon rock! Many families visit for the educational exhibits and hands-on experiences. It’s a great spot for kids to learn while having fun.
I enjoyed watching the IMAX films here; they give an immersive experience of space missions and flight. There’s so much to see and do that I recommend planning several hours for your visit.
Plan your trip during weekdays if possible. It’s often less crowded than weekends. Admission is free, but some special events may require tickets. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs.
The museum is located right on the National Mall, making it easy to visit along with other attractions. Check their website for any temporary exhibits or events occurring on the day you plan to go.
Location: National Mall, Washington, DC.
2. Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History for dinosaur fossils and gemstone exhibits
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a favorite for families, especially young explorers. You can see real dinosaur fossils and the Hope Diamond! The museum is packed with incredible natural wonders that captivate all ages.
With interactive exhibits, kids can learn about everything from ancient creatures to the marvels of the natural world. I was particularly amazed by the giant blue whale model hanging from the ceiling.
This museum isn’t just about looking; it’s about discovery. My children loved the hands-on experiences, such as digging for fossils. It’s a great way to ignite curiosity and learning.
Expect to spend a few hours here, especially if you want to explore the different galleries fully. Admission is free, but consider getting there early to avoid crowds during peak seasons.
After your visit, you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the National Mall. The surrounding gardens are lovely to explore as well.
Location: 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC.
3. Tour the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, focusing on transportation and technology
The Smithsonian National Museum of American History showcases the fabric of our nation’s past. Visitors can explore exhibits on transportation and technology, including famous inventions. The original Star-Spangled Banner is a highlight that leaves a lasting impression.
You can learn about the history of the American car or check out the space shuttle Discovery. There are so many unique artifacts! It’s really engaging for children and adults alike.
My visit here was eye-opening. I loved seeing how technological advancements shaped our society. The museum creates a sense of connection to history through its interactive displays.
Plan at least a couple of hours for your tour. Admission is free, and it’s a good idea to visit during the morning to avoid long lines. Be sure to check out any special exhibits happening during your visit.
After touring, grab a quick snack at the museum café. It’s a nice spot to recharge before continuing your exploration of the National Mall.
Location: 14th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC.
4. Discover the National Museum of African American History and Culture for a deep dive into history and culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand America’s diverse heritage. This museum contains rich exhibits on African American history from slavery to modern times.
You can explore interactive displays and artifacts that bring history to life. The experience is moving and enlightening, especially in the exhibition spaces that highlight the struggles and achievements.
During my visit, I was deeply touched by the personal stories shared through artifacts and installations. It was more than just a museum; it felt like an important cultural experience.
Due to its popularity, try to reserve tickets in advance for a timed entry. It’s important to allocate ample time to absorb all the exhibits. Visiting on weekdays will usually provide a quieter experience.
Make time for the outdoor terrace to enjoy views of the Washington Monument. It’s a wonderful place to reflect on your experience.
Location: 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC.
5. Engage with interactive exhibits at the National Children’s Museum designed specifically for kids
The National Children’s Museum is a fun, interactive space designed for children to learn through play. The museum encourages creativity, problem-solving, and imaginative exploration with hands-on exhibits.
Kids will love activities like building structures and engaging with science experiments. It’s a vibrant space where learning feels like an adventure! I was impressed by how much my kids enjoyed it.
The museum also offers scheduled programs that allow for guided activities and storytelling. We spent hours engaging in various creative projects; the smiles on my kids’ faces told me it was a hit.
Check their website for any special events happening on your visit. Admission is typically quite affordable. It’s best to go on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Make sure to take breaks in between activities in the designated play areas. There’s plenty of space to unwind and share what you’ve experienced.
Location: 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC.
6. Participate in espionage challenges at the International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum offers an exciting look into the world of espionage. With its interactive exhibits, it keeps visitors on their toes while diving into the secrets of spies throughout history.
You can engage in thrilling espionage challenges as you navigate through the museum. Kids can develop their spy skills in various interactive games, which I found super entertaining!
I loved the immersive escape room experience where families had to put their skills to the test. It felt like being part of a real spy operation!
The museum is a popular attraction, so booking tickets in advance is wise. Plan for at least two hours to make the most of your visit. It’s best aimed at older children and adults, as some concepts may be complex for younger kids.
Don’t forget to explore the museum shop, which offers fun spy gadgets and unique gifts for the little spies in your life.
Location: 800 F St NW, Washington, DC.
7. Experience hands-on language exhibits at Planet Word, a unique interactive museum
Planet Word is an innovative museum dedicated entirely to language. Visitors can explore fun, hands-on exhibits that allow them to play with words and discover their power. It celebrates the joy of language in a creative way.
Kids can engage in interactive activities that highlight language and storytelling. I enjoyed the immersive reading areas where we could dive into different genres and styles.
One of my favorite aspects was the speech exhibit, where we could hear accents and dialects from around the world. My children found it fascinating to explore different languages and cultures.
Admission is free, but be sure to check their website for timings and special events. It is great for all ages, especially for young readers and curious minds.
Combine your visit with a stop at nearby landmarks on the National Mall. It makes for a full day of enjoyable learning.
Location: 925 13th St NW, Washington, DC.
8. Wander through the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and see animals along the Asia Trail
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is a family-friendly destination that provides a fun and educational experience. The Asia Trail is a highlight, showcasing exotic animals like pandas and red pandas.
Walking through the zoo allows kids to learn about wildlife conservation and see animals up close. I loved watching the playful giant pandas; it was definitely a memorable experience!
The interactive exhibits keep the kids engaged. They can participate in animal care activities and learn about different species and habitats. It’s a great way to spark a love for animals!
The zoo is free to enter, making it a perfect budget-friendly outing. Best to arrive early as it can get crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Pack some snacks or a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas. There are also facilities for dining inside if you prefer something quick.
Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC.
9. Enjoy the outdoor gardens at the U.S. Botanic Garden near the U.S. Capitol
The U.S. Botanic Garden is a lovely green escape in the heart of Washington, DC. The outdoor gardens are filled with beautiful plants and flowers that change with the seasons. It’s a peaceful place for families to explore nature.
Kids can run through the gardens, play, and discover new plants. The whimsical layout encourages exploration, and the children’s garden has unique hands-on elements. I appreciated the chance to escape the city bustle here.
During my visit, the fragrance of blooming flowers was delightful. It was a fantastic place to take photos and enjoy quality family time outdoors.
Admission is free, but check for any seasonal events or special exhibits happening. It’s best to visit in the spring or summer to see everything in bloom.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby U.S. Capitol for a full day of sightseeing.
Location: 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC.
10. Explore the National Mall, visiting iconic monuments such as the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial
The National Mall is a must-see for anyone visiting Washington, DC. It is home to some of the country’s most iconic monuments. A visit to the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument can be very inspiring!
Families can stroll along the Mall, taking in the historical significance of each monument. I especially enjoyed the views of the Reflecting Pool, which create perfect photo opportunities.
There’s plenty of space for kids to run and explore between the points of interest. The outdoor areas also offer benches perfect for a break while enjoying the scenery.
Best to plan your visit early in the day or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds during summer. Be mindful of the weather, especially in winter when it can get quite chilly.
Pack some water and snacks to keep everyone energized during your exploration of this beautiful area!
Location: National Mall, Washington, DC.
11. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through Rock Creek Park, enjoying the natural scenery
Rock Creek Park offers a beautiful natural escape right in the city. This expansive park has trails for walking and biking, making it a popular destination for families who love the outdoors. You can connect with nature without leaving the city!
Children can enjoy exploring the woodlands, picnicking, or observing wildlife. I loved the peacefulness of the park; it feels like a world apart from the bustling city.
There are playgrounds and open areas for kids to run around. We often bring a frisbee or ball for some outdoor fun during our visits!
Best to visit during spring or fall for pleasant weather and beautiful foliage. Parking is available, but arriving early is recommended on weekends to find a good spot.
Don’t forget to check the park’s calendar for fun, family-friendly events that often occur throughout the year.
Location: 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC.
12. Spend a day at Georgetown Waterfront Park by the Potomac River, complete with a seasonal splash area
Georgetown Waterfront Park is a fantastic family-friendly destination by the Potomac River. It offers stunning views of the river and has a splash area perfect for kids to cool off during hot summer days.
Families can enjoy walking along the waterfront paths, having picnics, or renting kayaks for a fun day on the water. I loved the atmosphere here; it was lively and full of energy!
During our last visit, my kids had a blast in the splash area, and I enjoyed relaxing on the grass. There’s even a playground nearby for extra fun.
Timing your visit for sunset can provide breathtaking views of the sky turning colors over the river. Bring water and snacks, or hit one of the nearby eateries after your day by the river.
Check local event calendars for live music or outdoor events that often occur in the warmer months!
Location: 105 Cady’s Alley NW, Washington, DC.
13. Visit the Library of Congress and tour the historic Thomas Jefferson Building
The Library of Congress is a treasure trove of knowledge and history. The Thomas Jefferson Building is especially beautiful and offers guided tours to showcase its stunning architecture and rich collections.
Visitors can see rare books and historical documents, making it a great learning experience for kids. I was fascinated by the grand reading room and the incredible murals adorning the ceiling!
During the tour, you can learn about the library’s extensive resources. The exhibits are engaging and provide insights into America’s literary history.
Plan for a couple of hours here, as there’s a lot to see. Reservations are suggested for guided tours, especially during peak tourist season.
Nearby, you can find other attractions within walking distance, creating opportunities for a full day of educational exploration.
Location: 101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC.
14. Play a round of mini-golf at the East Potomac Miniature Golf Course on East Potomac Park
The East Potomac Miniature Golf Course offers a fun and family-friendly way to spend an afternoon. Located on East Potomac Park, it has a beautiful backdrop of scenery. It’s a great spot for some light-hearted competition!
Families can enjoy the well-maintained course, which is suitable for kids of all ages. I found the layout charming, and it added extra excitement to our day.
Playing mini-golf together created wonderful family memories. The relaxed atmosphere made it a perfect activity to cap off a day of exploring.
It’s best to plan your visit on a weekday or an early weekend afternoon to avoid larger crowds. Admission prices are reasonable, making it accessible for families.
After your game, you can grab a bite to eat at a nearby park cafe or enjoy snacks at the mini-golf course typically available.
Location: 972 Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC.
15. Check out the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to see large aircraft and spacecraft near Dulles International Airport
The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is a remarkable extension of the Air and Space Museum. This facility offers visitors a chance to see large aircraft and the famous Space Shuttle Discovery up close.
Kids and adults alike will be thrilled to walk among the impressive displays. I highly recommend watching the aircraft taking off and landing at nearby Dulles. It’s all part of the experience!
The center features interactive exhibits and educational programs that keep everyone engaged. I loved learning about different aviation technologies and how they’ve evolved over time.
Admission to the Udvar-Hazy Center is free, but you may need to pay for parking. Plan for several hours to explore this expansive facility.
Make sure to check for any special workshops or events as they can add even more fun to your visit!
Location: 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy, Chantilly, VA.
Final Thoughts
Washington, DC, is a city rich in culture, history, and family-friendly activities. Each of these attractions offers an opportunity for fun and learning, making it an ideal destination for families with kids of all ages.
Whether you’re exploring a museum, enjoying the outdoors, or engaging in hands-on activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Your time in DC will undoubtedly create lasting memories for your family.
From the amazing museums to beautiful parks, the adventure awaits in every corner of the city. Don’t miss out on experiencing the vibrant history and culture that Washington, DC, has to offer.
For more exciting family activities, check out these links on our site: things to do in Washington, DC with kids and family things to do in Washington, DC.