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Planning a visit to Washington DC with kids and wondering what to do in DC with children? We have got you covered! This guide to the best places to go with children in DC is here to save you time and hassle.
Washington DC, the capital of the US is one of the most visited cities in the USA by families. From museums, memorials, and the Presidential House of America to the Capitol, fun family events, and river cruises – DC has something for every age.
How to Get Around DC with Kids
Washington DC is popular among families traveling with kids because of its Museums. With over 70 museums (including 17 Smithsonian museums) in Washington DC, it’s vital to plan your way around to cover the ground with kids while ensuring they have a fun trip.
Luckily, most of the museums are located in the National Mall area making it easy to get around. DC is a stroller-friendly and walkable destination, so make sure you get a stroller for young kids.
The Washington Metro is the best way to reach DC. Most of the museums are walkable from metro stations. You can even book the Hop on Hop off bus tour and visit the attractions over the days.
Parking in the city can be difficult and very expensive. The Parking garages would charge somewhere between $30 to $40 per day. There is street parking around the museums on National Mall but is metered and time-restricted and it’s hard to find an empty spot.
Note: Please read all the signs while parking on the streets or better to ask the cops there. We had our car towed as we missed reading the time restriction on the board on the street corner.
Activities for Kids in DC
There are so many things to do in Washington DC with kids making it one of the best places to visit in the USA with kids.
Check Out the National Memorials on the National Mall
The National Mall is a long green stretch from the US Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and it’s the best place to start your DC exploration.
Washington Monument
Washington Monument aka National Monument is a 555-foot tall tower made of marble, built in memory of the first president of the US.
The monument is surrounded by flags and is symbolic of DC. There is an observation deck at the top of the monument which offers spectacular views of the city. The elevator ride to the top requires a timed ticket that can be booked online or from the site.
World War II Memorial
World War II Memorial lies between National Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.
Built to honor the millions of Americans who fought for the country, it’s a beautiful circular memorial with stone pillars enveloped by beautiful fountains. Each column represents a US state at the time of World War II.
You can plan to attend one of the events happening around the memorial to honor the veterans and officers.
Lincoln Memorial
Overlooking the reflecting pool is a huge white marble statue of Lincoln inside a temple-like structure.
There are many steps that lead to the towering statue of Lincoln, seated on a chair. The statue is surrounded by 36 tall columns representing the number of states during the death of Lincoln.
It is a place to get some great pics of the Lincoln statue or the reflecting pool behind it.
Korean and Vietnam War Memorial
Located near the Lincoln Memorial, to the east and west sides of the mall, is the Korean and Vietnam War memorial.
The Korean War Memorial is built on a triangular-shaped field with statues of stainless steel soldiers in combat uniforms, all walking toward the American flag. With a Pool of remembrance and a memorial wall with the words ‘Freedom is not Free’ written on it, this is a memorial to honor the many lives lost.
On the other side is the Vietnam Memorial, a long black granite wall with the names of more than 58,000 soldiers engraved on it. You can see your reflection on the wall along with the names engraved.
Visit the Best Washington DC Museums
Washington DC has the world’s largest and most renowned collection of museums with Smithsonian Institutions having over 17 museums, galleries, and zoos and all free.
A family trip to Washington DC is incomplete without visiting a museum or two. Some of the popular ones are the Natural History Museum and Air and Space Museum.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Natural History Museum is one of the most popular museums in Washington DC. As the name suggests, the museum throws light on the history of the natural world and its evolution.
As you enter the museum, you are welcomed by a huge African elephant inside the rotunda setting up high expectations as you begin exploring.
Spread over 3 floors, there are over 12 exhibits from fossils, birds, dinosaurs, mammals, human life, ocean life, gems & minerals, and many more. There are some galleries that keep changing with time like the newest addition ‘Outbreak: Epidemics of the World’.
Young kids love the exhibits of dinosaurs, mammals, and birds. The museum houses some of the world’s biggest gems and sparkling diamonds.
The museum has a gift shop and cafeteria to take a break and munch on some snacks.
Smithsonian Air and Space Museum
Smithsonian Air and Space Museum is a must-visit for kids and space enthusiasts who love venturing into space. Visiting the Air & Space Museum is one of the best family activities in Washington DC.
As you enter the museum, the first thing that catches your sight is a huge aircraft hanging from the ceiling. The hall has a display of spaceships, and jet aircraft that are significant in history.
There are many galleries in the museum with exhibits showing everything from the history of air transportation to the famed expedition to the moon.
There is a special Wright Brother Gallery that showcases the history behind the making of the first aircraft by them. Don’t miss out on the glider and flyer created by the Wright Brothers.
Check out the spacesuit and other instruments of the astronauts, the rover that stepped on the moon, or learn about the Apollo missions, there is no dearth of information and activities.
There are simulators that can transport you to space for an adventurous experience. You can buy a ticket to watch a 3D film on space and aviation history at IMAX theaters.
The museum is located on Independence Ave SW, between the 4th and 7th streets. Entry to the museum is free. The regular hours of the museum are 10 am to 5:30 pm with extended hours during summer till 7:30 pm.
Take a Tour of the US Capitol
The beautiful white US Capitol building is the working office and symbol of democracy in the United States. The building is not only beautiful from the outside, but the architecture is also spectacular from the inside.
It is advisable to book your tour online well in advance either through the website or it can also be booked through the local representative or senator.
Be prepared for a strenuous screening before entry to the Capitol. There are a few items that are prohibited to be taken inside.
The guided tour lasts for around an hour. It includes a visit to the famous Rotunda, Crypt, and Statuary Hall. The tour begins with viewing a small film that sets the momentum for the tour.
The Rotunda is a huge room with a circular dome-shaped building In the center of the Capitol building. As you enter the Rotunda, the ceiling, the paintings on the ceiling, and the walls will leave you awestruck.
National Statuary Hall displays many statues of illustrated personalities from each state. The black and white marble stone tiled floor complements the decor.
The Capitol operates from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
United States Botanic Garden
Located on the grounds of the Capitol, the US Botanic Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers. The botanic garden has a conservatory, the National Garden, and Bartholdi Park.
From a wide variety of exotic and endangered plants, blooming flowers, fruits, and vegetables – it is a delight to visit this colorful garden. The conservatory has various sections with native plants from Hawaii, tropical rainforests, deserts, and the Mediterranean all grown in a controlled atmosphere.
Besides the conservatory, there are outdoor gardens – National Garden and Bartholdi Park both providing a way for citizens to connect to nature in the middle of chaotic city life. The beautiful flowers, landscapes, and sustainable approaches are noteworthy.
US Botanic Garden has a huge display of trains during December and many other fun activities all around DC making it one of the best places to travel in December.
Admission to the Botanic Garden is free.
Take a Tour of the White House
The White House is the symbol of America depicting power. With many levels of security, a visit to this powerhouse requires a lot of planning, well in advance.
Apply at least 21 days to 3 months in advance for permissions. If you are a US citizen, a request has to be submitted through your Member of Congress. For a foreign national, the request has to go through the country’s embassy in Washington DC.
These are free and self-guided tours based on first-come-first-serve.
Tours are available on Friday and Saturday (except for Federal holidays). The visitors need to carry a US-issued ID card or passport on the day of the visit. There are many items that are prohibited to take inside including any handbag/backpack, water and food, video cameras, and even strollers. It is better to visit with just your phone and identity proof.
The tour lets visitors explore the public rooms in the East Wing, which includes the Blue Room, Red Room, and Green Room; the State Dining Room; the China Room; and a view of the White House Rose Garden.
If taking a tour doesn’t work out, it can still be enjoyed from outside.
Explore Smithsonian’s National Zoo
One of the oldest zoos in the US, the National Zoo is a part of the Smithsonian’s museums.
Thus there is no entry fee to the zoo with access to over 2700 animals.
The National Zoo has a great collection of species from all across the world including giant pandas, lions, tigers, elephants, reptiles, and many more. The Giant Panda Exhibit is the most famous among all and hence is required to reserve a timed pass to visit the exhibit.
Another favorite of the kids is the Petting Farm where they get to see and pet the farm animals like donkeys, cows, goats, chickens, and many more.
Spread over 163 acres, it is great to spend the whole day exploring the exhibits. Pack your snacks and picnic or eat at the restaurant or food truck.
The zoo is open from 8 am to 4 pm. While admission to the zoo is free, you need to secure an entry pass.
Please note that the parking space at the zoo is limited. You need to book it online by paying $30. No drive-up tickets are available. Since parking is limited, it is advisable to use the metro bus or metro rail both of which have stops close to the zoo.
Cruise the Potomac River
Potomac River flows through Washington DC and shares borders with Maryland and Virginia.
The river adds to the beauty and charm of the city. There are many cruises available on the Potomac River that let you see another side of DC.
Sit and relax on the cruise during the day or the night and see the landmarks of Washington DC.
You can book a full-day city tour along with a scenic Potomac cruise or navigate the city on your own and end your day with the famous evening dinner cruise and enjoy music, food, and glittering views of the city.
Tips for Washington DC Family Vacations
- Most of the museums are now only allowing timed-entry passes that can be reserved online. So plan your visits accordingly and check for the updated schedule on the website before visiting.
- Since there is a lot of walking, do get a stroller when visiting with small kids.
- Summer is hot, so carry sunscreen, hats, and water to keep yourself hydrated.
- If visiting in summer, do check out many events at the grounds of the National Mall grounds opposite the Capitol.
- DC is well connected by Metro rail and there are stations near most of the attractions.
- It is good to take breaks in between and let the kids run around in the green spaces.
Hope the list of things to do in Washington DC with kids will help you plan your DC itinerary. Did we miss any kid-friendly attractions in DC? Do share your DC experience in the comments. Would love to hear about your favorite family-friendly activity in Washington DC.
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When I visited DC I didn’t realize how kid friendly the city could actually be. It’s great that there are so many things that would be interesting for a kid to do there – makes trip planning much easier for families!
Yes, DC is a delight and must visit with kids. From history to science to art to fun, there is so much for everyone. DC has world renowned Smithsonian museums that too free. Hope this helps to plan your next trip to DC.
Thanks for sharing such an amazing post. Smithsonian’s zoo would be such a great idea for kids.
Thanks for stopping by and spending time. Yes, Smithsonian zoo has such a variety of species especially The pandas. They are super favorite among kids.
Kids would definitely love the Zoo! That’s a great recommendation – and its so nice that it’s free!! Love visiting DC!
Yes absolutely. Kids love visiting the zoo with so many animals to see. The giant pandas are one of the favorites. Isn’t it amazing that The zoo is free. In fact all other Smithsonian museums are also free. We also love DC.
Fantastic content! Thanks for compiling this list. I can’t wait for my kids to be a little bit older to appreciate all that DC has to offer. Saving this as a reference!
Thanks for your time and appreciation. Oh yes, DC has to be on the list for families with kids. It has so much to offer and easy on budget also. Hopefully you will be able to take a trip to DC with them.
We’ve done a few of the monuments with our son on our day in Washington DC and found it impressive. It was to hot that day to do anything more.
That’s great that your family liked DC. Yes, it can get tough to explore during hot summer days. We would highly recommend spring time, you can also see the Cherry blossom. Autumn is also great sans crowd. We have loved DC in winters also, you get most of the things all to yourself. Hopefully you can make a trip again and see the other attractions.