There are so many incredible things to do in Washington DC with kids. My family lives in Northern Virginia, just outside the city, and we love exploring the city with our own kids. The city brims with family-friendly activities and attractions, many of which are free. From exploring world-class museums to cheering at a local sports game, DC offers a wide variety of activities that promise fun and learning for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the best family-friendly spots in the nation’s capital.
- Washington DC Map for Families
- Outdoor Activities in Washington DC with Kids
- Rainy Day Activities in Washington DC with Kids
- Top Things to Do in Washington DC with Kids by Age Group
- Family-Friendly Hotels in Washington DC
- Quick Travel Tips for Visiting Washington DC with Kids
- Seasonal Highlights in Washington DC
- Washington DC Family Travel FAQ
- Favorite Tours for Visiting Washington DC with Kids
- Looking for More Family Travel Tips?
- Pin for Later
Washington DC Map for Families
We’ve rounded up our favorite family-friendly Washington DC spots on this map to make navigating the city easy.
Planning a short trip? Here’s a sample day: Natural History in the morning, National Archives in the afternoon, and Monuments by Moonlight. See our full 3-day itineraries by age here →
Outdoor Activities in Washington DC with Kids
Planning a family trip to Washington DC with kids? Start outside! DC is packed with wide-open spaces, must-see monuments, and walkable areas that make it easy to explore with children of all ages. Here’s what not to miss in the fresh air.
☔ Weather tip: Expecting rain? Skip to Washington DC Rainy Day Activities → for indoor fun ideas that the whole family will enjoy.
The National Zoo: Wild Adventures Await!
The National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution, meaning admission is free. Nestled in Rock Creek Park, the National Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. Great news – the pandas are back and go on display beginning January 24, 2025.
Why Visit: It’s an ideal place for kids to connect with wildlife and learn about conservation.
Highlights:
- The Great Ape House: The pandas may be gone, but you can still say hi to the gorillas and orangutans who are just as cute. Be sure to look up when you leave, and maybe you’ll catch the orangutans dangling above you. Heads up – it stinks inside, but these amazing animals are worth it!
- Small Mammal House: Checking out these little cuties is one of my favorite things to do in Washington DC, with kids! There’s something for everyone in the family, from the big-eared to fennec foxes to the bizarre-looking naked mole rats.
- Squirt Zone: Cool off at the squirt zone near the American Trail tidal pool. Pack a bathing suit or a change of clothes.
Pro Tips:
- Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds and see the animals when they’re most active. You need a free timed ticket to visit, so plan ahead.
- Parking: Zoo parking must be booked in advance and is quite pricey. However, we’re always able to find parking nearby for free. The zoo is on an incline, so depending on which side you park on, you’ll have to walk up a hill at some point.
- Dining: You can bring food in, so consider bringing in snacks or a picnic to save money.
Catch a Game: DC’s Sports Scene
For families who love sports, catching a game is a fantastic way to experience DC’s local culture.
Why Visit: Feel the excitement and energy of a live sports event.
Options:
- Baseball at Nationals Park: Cheer on the Washington Nationals with family-friendly fun at the ballpark. Get tickets to a game.
- Basketball at Capital One Arena: Watch the Washington Wizards or the Mystics in action. Get your tickets here.
- Soccer at Audi Field: Experience thrilling soccer matches at a DC United or Spirit match. Get your tickets here.
- Hockey at Capital One Arena: Catch an action-packed Washington Capitals hockey game. Get your tickets here.
Pro Tips:
- Family Promotions: Look for family-friendly promotions or themed game-day events.
- Pre-Game Activities: Arrive early to enjoy pre-game activities and snag some cool merchandise.
- Team Colors: Don’t forget to wear your team’s colors to really get into the spirit!
- Parking: Parking rates near the stadiums are not surprisingly insanely high. I’ve seen them as high as $60. Take public transportation if possible.
Monuments on the National Mall: Walk Through History
Exploring the National Mall is one of the best free things to do in the city. This expansive area is filled with iconic monuments and memorials that tell the story of America’s history. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider visiting by bike.
Why Visit: It’s a chance to walk through history and see some of the country’s most significant landmarks.
Must-See Monuments:
- Lincoln Memorial: Reflect on US history at this iconic statue dedicated to President Abraham Lincoln.
- Washington Monument: Enjoy panoramic views from the top of this towering obelisk with a timed ticket.
- Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Be inspired by the powerful messages of equality and justice.
Pro Tips:
- Best Times for Visits: Early morning or late evening visits offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
- Biking or Tours: Distances are longer than you might expect. Rent bikes or scooters or join a guided tour to cover more ground efficiently.
- Essentials: Pack snacks, water, and sunscreen for a full day out on the Mall.
Rainy Day Activities in Washington DC with Kids
Even the best-planned trip might hit a rainy day. When the skies open, your Lincoln Memorial stroll might turn soggy—but don’t worry! DC is packed with awesome indoor gems to keep your family smiling and dry. From hands-on museums to secret hideaways, here are the top things to do in Washington DC with kids when it rains:
Natural History Museum: Explore the Wonders of Nature
Next on our list of family activities in Washington DC, is the Natural History Museum, another Smithsonian gem. This museum is a favorite for families due to its engaging exhibits and interactive displays. See the full list of our favorite DC museums for kids.
Why Visit: It’s one of the best spots in Washington DC, for kids. Plus, it offers a chance to learn about everything from dinosaurs to diamonds.
Highlights:
- Hall of Mammals: Get up close to 274 lifelike mammals from every corner of the world. Don’t miss the okapi (or, as I call it, a zebra butt) and the shockingly large walrus.
- Insect Zoo: Encounter real bugs and learn about their unique adaptations in this immersive exhibit. For an extra fee, delight in the butterfly pavilion.
- Ocean Hall: Dive into the depths of the ocean and discover its wonders, from majestic whales to colorful coral reefs.
- The Hope Diamond: Marvel at the legendary Hope Diamond, a dazzling blue gem with a fascinating history.
- Hall of Fossils: Journey through time and explore the ancient world through a stunning collection of dinosaur fossils.
Pro Tips:
- Special Exhibits: Check out any special exhibits or events happening during your visit. As of May 2024, the temporary exhibits include one on sea monsters.
- Interactive Displays: While many exhibits are hands-off, there are plenty of things for little hands to touch. Hands-on activities and interactive displays to enhance your learning experience.
- Go Early: This museum is popular, and lines to get in can stretch well outside the door. So, get there early to avoid waiting. Also, parking in the area is a nightmare, so use public transportation if possible.
- Tours: To maximize your time, consider a tour of this museum and others in the area.
Planet Word: Where Language Comes to Life
Another unique option for entertaining kids in DC is Planet Word, a newer addition to DC’s museum scene. This museum focuses on the power of language and storytelling.
Why Visit: It’s a unique, interactive museum that’s perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Highlights:
- Word Worlds: “Paint” with words on an interactive wall. Watch as words like surreal or luminous come to life.
- Karaoke Lounge: Sing your heart out while learning about phonetics and speech.
- Lexicon Alley: Reserve a puzzle case, and use clues to solve a mystery. Kids must be 12+.
Pro Tips:
- Rainy Day Fun: Ideal for a rainy day activity—indoors and full of learning and fun.
- Tickets: This museum is not part of the Smithsonian, so it requires “pay-what-you-want” timed tickets.
Air and Space Museum: Reach for the Stars
The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum’s dual locations are another must-see attraction for a family vacation in D.C.
Why Visit: One location is on the National Mall in DC, and the other, Udvar Hazy, is in Virginia near Dulles Airport. Both are home to some of history’s most famous flying machines and space artifacts.
Highlights:
- Apollo 11 Command Module: Relive the moon landing with this historic artifact.
- Space Shuttle Discovery: At Udvar Hazy, get up close with a real space shuttle.
- Flight Simulators: Experience the thrill of piloting an aircraft in one of the museum’s flight simulators.
- Historic Airplanes: From a plane flown by the Wright brothers to the Concorde, Udvar Hazy will wow with its many historic airplanes.
- Destination Moon: Immerse yourself in artifacts from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo moon missions. For example, see Neil Armstrong’s iconic Apollo spacesuit.
Pro Tips:
- Tickets: Reserve free timed tickets in advance. To make the most of your time., consider a museum tour.
- Timing: Visit in the morning or afternoon to avoid peak hours and combine with nearby museums for a full day of exploration.
- Parking: Udvar Hazy parking is paid ($15) but plentiful. It’s free after 4 pm. Parking by the DC location is a nightmare. Take public transportation instead.
- Special Experiences: For an unforgettable visit, check out free guided tours and paid Udvar Hazy IMAX theater experiences. Tickets to the planetarium can be purchased on-site in the DC location.
National Children’s Museum: Play Meets STEAM
Looking for a space where little ones can burn energy and learn something new? The National Children’s Museum blends play and hands-on science in a fully indoor, stroller-friendly setting right in downtown DC.
Why Visit: This museum is built just for kids—think climbing structures, water play, and interactive science exhibits perfect for ages 0–10.
Highlights:
Dream Machine: A giant multi-story climbing structure in the museum’s center—great for burning off rainy day wiggles.
Data Science Alley: Kids can play digital games that sneakily teach STEM concepts like coding, probability, and data sorting.
Innovation Sandbox: Rotating exhibits and maker-style activities introduce little ones to science and engineering in fun, creative ways.
Pro Tips:
Rainy Day Fun: One of the best indoor spots in DC for toddlers and school-aged kids—plan to stay at least 1–2 hours.
Pair with lunch: The museum is connected to the Ronald Reagan Building, where you’ll find a food court with family-friendly options like Five Guys, Wasabi Sushi, and more.
Tickets: Not part of the Smithsonian, so advance timed-entry tickets are recommended. Admission is currently $15.95 for everyone over 1. Free for babies under 1.
Top Things to Do in Washington DC with Kids by Age Group
Planning a family trip to Washington DC? Not all kids like the same things—and that’s totally fine! Whether you’ve got a curious toddler, an energetic tween, or a hard-to-impress teen, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the best things to do in DC with kids by age group.
Things to Do in Washington DC with Toddlers and Little Kids
Traveling with little ones? Keep things simple and fun. DC has lots of places where little ones can explore without feeling overwhelmed.
- Smithsonian National Zoo – Free to visit and packed with animals. Toddlers love the elephants, lions, and (when they’re there) pandas. Bonus: it’s great for stroller walks.
- National Museum of Natural History – Giant dinosaur skeletons, a huge whale hanging from the ceiling, and hands-on exhibits make this a great option for little explorers.
- U.S. Botanic Garden – A peaceful spot with wide paths and tropical plants. Kids can roam, and you can relax.
- Yards Park Splash Pad (spring and summer)—Need to cool off? This splash pad is perfect on hot days. Bring a change of clothes and let the kids run wild.
These low-key spots are great for short attention spans—and naps after!
Things to Do in DC with Tweens (Ages 8–12)
Tweens like to move, learn new things, and maybe get a little silly. Here’s what they’ll love:
- International Spy Museum – Kids can go on a secret mission and learn about real spies. It’s hands-on and super fun.
- National Air and Space Museum – Rockets, planes, and space stuff? Yes, please. It’s one of the top museums in DC for kids.
- Evening Monuments Tour– Want to make sightseeing cooler? Try it at night. The big monuments look amazing lit up.
These spots are perfect for curious kids who like to ask “why?” a lot.
Washington DC with Teens
Teens can be tough to please, but DC has plenty to keep them interested.
- Holocaust Memorial Museum – This museum is powerful and emotional. It’s best for older kids who are ready for serious topics.
- National Gallery of Art or Hirshhorn Museum—These museums are perfect for teens who love art or Instagram-worthy spots.
- Georgetown – Great for shopping, enjoying treats like Georgetown Cupcake, and walking along the water. Teens will enjoy the freedom to explore a little.
- Walking or Food Tours – Let teens dive into the history or food scene. Tours help them connect in a fun, hands-on way.
Give teens a bit of space, a cool place to take pics, and a good snack, and you’re all set.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Washington DC
Finding the right place to stay is crucial for a family trip. I definitely prefer hotels with suites so the kids can sleep separately. Here are some great family-friendly hotel options.
Top Washington, D.C., Family Hotel Picks:
- 3-star: Embassy Suites by Hilton Georgetown
- 4-star: Westin Washington DC City Center
- 5 star: The Hay Adams
Pro Tips:
- Book Early: Hotels fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- Amenities: Look for hotels with pools, free breakfasts, and family-friendly services.
- Location: Choose a hotel close to Metro stations for easy access to the city’s attractions.
Quick Travel Tips for Visiting Washington DC with Kids
Washington DC is packed with kid-friendly activities, but planning the perfect family trip can be tricky. Here are some quick tips to help make your visit fun and stress-free:
Best Time to Visit Washington DC
Spring break and fall break are ideal times to visit DC for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. I personally hate the gloomy winter weather in DC, but at least there are plenty of museums. Avoid summer when you have to deal with tourist hordes and miserable humidity.
Free Attractions in Washington DC
Take advantage of free museums like the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum. Don’t miss the National Zoo, which is always a hit with kids.
Kid-Friendly Museums in Washington DC
It can be hard to choose among all of DC’s excellent and often free museums. Here’s the full scoop on the best museums for kids in Washington, D.C.
Get an Early Start
In high season, lines can get quite long. To beat the crowds, start your day early. Most attractions open around 10 a.m., so get there as they open.
Include Downtime
Plan for breaks to keep everyone happy. A midday rest can make a big difference, especially with younger kids.
Seasonal Highlights in Washington DC
Washington DC is a fantastic destination year-round. However, each season offers unique experiences that make it even more magical for families. Here are the top seasonal highlights for visiting Washington DC with kids:
Spring in Washington DC: Cherry Blossoms and Outdoor Adventures
Spring is one of the most stunning times to visit DC, thanks to the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The Tidal Basin comes alive with fluffy pink blossoms, making it a magical backdrop for family photos. The exact dates the cherry blossoms bloom are unpredictable, but the festival is set. It begins on March 20, 2025.
- Top Activity: Take a leisurely walk or paddleboat ride around the Tidal Basin to enjoy the blossoms up close.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: Visit the National Arboretum for fewer crowds and room for kids to roam.
- Bonus Event: The Blossom Kite Festival (part of the Cherry Blossom Festival) invites families to fly kites on the National Mall. If you’re a comic fan, don’t miss DC’s AwesomeCon in April
Summer in Washington DC: Fireworks and Outdoor Fun
Summer is bustling with energy, and the highlight is the 4th of July Fireworks over the National Mall. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for kids to see the fireworks with iconic landmarks in the background.
- Top Activity: Catch the National Independence Day Parade, which features marching bands and giant balloons.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: Arrive early at Gravelly Point Park or Hains Point for less crowded views of the fireworks. DC humidity is in full effect during summer, so kid-friendly museums with blasting air conditioning are a welcome relief!
- Other Ideas: Visit the National Zoo, where the outdoor exhibits are in full swing, or cool off at Georgetown Waterfront Park’s splash pad. As the weather warms, baseball and soccer are also in full swing, so take in a game with the kids, too. If you visit the first week of July, consider a visit to the Smithsonian folklife festival.
Fall in Washington DC: Festivals and Foliage
Fall in DC is all about colorful leaves and festive vibes. It’s the perfect season for outdoor activities with cooler weather.
- Top Activity: Stroll through the National Mall or Rock Creek Park to enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: Check out the Pumpkin Village at Cox Farms, a short drive from DC, with hayrides and farm animals. Get our list of the best pumpkin patches in the DC
- Bonus Event: Don’t miss the Smithsonian’s Air and Scare at the Udvar-Hazy Center, where kids can trick-or-treat alongside airplanes. Boo at the zoo offers the opportunity for enjoying the animals and snagging candy.
- If you have extra time, take a day trip to Shenandoah to enjoy Skyline Drive’s fall foliage.
Winter in Washington DC: Holiday Lights and Cozy Adventures
Winter transforms Washington DC into a festive wonderland. Families flock to see the National Christmas Tree Lighting near the White House, an iconic holiday tradition.
- Top Activity: Visit ZooLights at the National Zoo for dazzling light displays and holiday treats.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: Head to the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden Ice Rink for a fun skating session. Because the weather in DC can get quite chilly, indoor activities like museums are always a welcome respite from the cold.
- Bonus Event: Experience the Downtown Holiday Market, perfect for picking up unique gifts while enjoying seasonal snacks.
Washington DC Family Travel FAQ
Yes! We refreshed this post in June 2025 to include a handy DC map with all of our favorite spots plus new rainy day ideas and FAQ. We’ve moved our itineraries to a new
Three full days is a great starting point for families, but there’s plenty to do if you’re staying longer. We recommend 3 days for highlights. You can extend up to 5–7 days if you want to explore museums, monuments, neighborhoods, and the zoo at a relaxed pace.
Washington DC is a family-friendly destination that offers something exciting for kids of all ages. But if you’re wondering when’s the best time to visit with your little (or not-so-little) ones, here’s a quick guide by age group to help you plan:
Ages 2-4: The Tiny Adventurers
Scooter-Friendly Sidewalks:Your pint-sized explorers will love scooting around the city, making it easy for their small legs to keep up. Plus, wide sidewalks mean plenty of space to zoom around safely!
Interactive Museums: Toddlers will delight in the hands-on exhibits at the Smithsonian museums. The National Museum of Natural History, with its larger-than-life dinosaur skeletons and butterfly pavilion, is a toddler favorite.
Open Spaces: The National Mall isn’t just for monuments—it’s also a huge playground where little ones can burn off energy. Bring a picnic and let them run wild!
Ages 5-7: The Curious Minds
Educational Fun: Kids in this age group are curious about the world around them. The National Air and Space Museum is a must-visit, where they can marvel at rockets, planes, and the wonders of space.
Historical Sights: This is the perfect age to introduce them to history. Walking around the monuments and memorials, like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, can spark an early interest in the stories of the past.
Easy Public Transit: Young kids still love the novelty of riding the bus or hopping on the Metro, making travel around the city part of the adventure.
Ages 8-12: The Engagers
Deeper Understanding: As kids grow older, they’ll start to grasp the significance of Washington DC’s landmarks. Places like the United States Capitol and the National Archives, where they can see the Constitution and Declaration of Independence, become more meaningful.
Variety of Activities: Keep them engaged with a mix of activities. Guided tours, interactive exhibits, and even a scavenger hunt around the city can keep the excitement levels high.
Building Independence: Older kids can handle a bit more freedom. With supervision, let them explore a museum exhibit on their own or lead the way on a monument walk. They’ll love the sense of responsibility!
Teens: The Young Scholars
Immersive Experiences: Teens can dive deeper into the rich history and politics of the nation’s capital. The National Museum of African American History and Culture or the Holocaust Memorial Museum offer profound experiences that resonate with older kids.
Unique Adventures: How about a night tour of the monuments or a ghost tour? Teens will appreciate the cool factor of seeing the city’s iconic sights lit up after dark.
Cultural Exploration: Encourage your teen to explore DC’s diverse neighborhoods, sampling international cuisine, or visiting the bustling markets. It’s a great way to blend fun with cultural education.
Getting around Washington DC with kids is a breeze, thanks to the city’s well-connected and family-friendly transportation options. Most importantly, I do not recommend renting a car unless you plan to spend time outside of the city, such as Mount Vernon. Otherwise, DC is a compact city with sparse and expensive parking, so a car will just be a hassle.
Here’s how to make your travel smooth and stress-free:
Hop on the Metro: The DC Metro is the easiest way to navigate the city. It’s clean, efficient, and stroller-friendly, with plenty of elevators and escalators at most stations. Kids will love the novelty of riding the train, and you’ll appreciate avoiding traffic.
Take a Bus Tour: If you want to cover a lot of ground without tiring out little legs, consider a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. It’s a fun and convenient way to see all the major sights, and you can get off at any stop that catches your interest.
Walk and Explore: Washington DC is an incredibly walkable city, especially around the National Mall. Bring a stroller for younger kids, or rent bikes (including kid-sized options) for a fun way to get around. The wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to navigate on foot.
Use Ride-Sharing Apps: If you need to get somewhere quickly or it’s a bit too far to walk, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available in DC. Many offer car seats upon request, making it a safe and convenient option for families.
Explore by Scooter: For a bit more fun, consider renting scooters (especially for older kids and teens). There are plenty of scooter rental spots around the city, and it’s a great way to zip between attractions while keeping the adventure alive.
Water Taxi for a Unique View: Don’t forget about the water! Take a scenic water taxi ride along the Potomac River. It’s a unique and relaxing way to travel, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline that you can’t see from the road.
With these options, getting around DC with kids is not only manageable but also part of the adventure!
Nope! DC is very walkable and the Metro system is family-friendly. Most major attractions are close together. Parking can be expensive and hard to find, so we recommend public transit, walking, or rideshare.
DC has so many wonderful acitvities throughout the year. To see what’s happening this wekeend, check out the Washington Posts’s Going Out Guide. For a view of all the events coming up, visit the Washington.org event listings or the Washingtonian
Look for family-friendly hotels in neighborhoods like Penn Quarter, Dupont Circle, or the Wharf. You’ll be close to top sights, dining, and Metro access. Many hotels offer suite-style rooms and kid-friendly amenities.
Yes! Every Smithsonian museum is free to enter. This includes family favorites like the National Museum of Natural History, the Air & Space Museum, and the National Zoo. Some special exhibits may require timed tickets or reservations.
Favorite Tours for Visiting Washington DC with Kids
Organized tours are an amazing way to take the hassle out of traveling. The right tour guide can make an educational activity fun for the whole family. Plus they will save you the trouble of figuring out how to navigate the city. Even better, they offer a wealth of insight and perks like easy entry to popular attractions. Here are some family-friendly tours we recommend:
Endless Fun in Washington DC with Kids
A family trip to Washington DC offers educational family fun with its rich blend of history, culture, and adventure. For more tips on traveling with kids, check out our Family Travel Essentials Guide
Keep Planning Your DC Family Vacation:
- Spotlight on Washington DC’s Best Museums for Kids
- 3-day Washington DC Itineraries – Options for Kids of All Ages
Looking for More Family Travel Tips?
- Plan 4 days in Seattle with Kids
- Discover Northern California with Kids
- Plan the Ultimate Yellowstone Itinerary
- 8 Best Rides at Universal Orlando for Families
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Last Updated on June 23, 2025 by Lindsey
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We haven’t gotten to Washington DC yet but this is a GREAT guide! Thanks!!
I don’t have kids, but I’m always down for a trip to the National Zoo! DC has so much to offer everyone of all ages.
We loved visiting the many free museums with kids.
This was a great guide! Honestly, the last time I went to Washington DC was when I was a kid, but I don’t think we did a lot of these things.
I love this post! There is so much to do in Washington DC, and every kid should experience it at least once! You included such a great variety of activities to choose from!
Washington, D.C. is at the top of our American bucket list to explore with the kids. I’d be excited to see the monuments myself, but I think my girls would especially enjoy the Natural History Museum and the Air and Space Museum