Things to Do in Washington DC with Kids: Top Attractions & Tips for Family Fun

How to Get Around Washington DC with Kids

Navigating Washington DC with children is surprisingly easy thanks to the city’s excellent public transportation system and walkable layout. The Metro is clean, efficient, and connects all major attractions, with elevators at most stations making stroller access simple. Children under 5 ride free with a paying adult, making it an economical choice for families.

For families who prefer more flexibility, the hop-on hop-off bus tours provide a convenient way to see the major sights while resting tired little legs between attractions. These tours offer the added benefit of informative commentary that helps children understand the significance of what they’re seeing.

Walking is also a great option, especially around the National Mall where many of the major museums and monuments are located. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and plan for regular breaks, as the distances between attractions can be deceptive. Many families find that alternating between walking and public transportation helps keep everyone happy and energized throughout the day.

Explore the National Mall Memorials with Kids

The National Mall is home to Washington DC’s most iconic monuments and memorials, all of which are free to visit and offer valuable learning opportunities for children. This expansive green space stretches from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial, with the Washington Monument standing tall at its center.

Washington Monument

Standing at 555 feet tall, the Washington Monument offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Children are fascinated by the elevator ride to the top and spotting familiar landmarks from above. While admission is free, timed-entry tickets are required and can be reserved in advance online or obtained at the Washington Monument Lodge on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 8:30 AM. For families with kids, morning visits are recommended when lines are shorter and energy levels are higher.

World War II Memorial

The World War II Memorial features 56 pillars representing U.S. states and territories, surrounding a magnificent fountain. Kids enjoy finding their home state’s pillar and watching the dancing waters. The memorial’s design includes several interactive elements that engage children, such as bronze relief panels depicting scenes from the war and the Freedom Wall with its 4,048 gold stars. Park rangers are often available to answer questions and provide context in kid-friendly language.

Korean and Vietnam War Memorials

These powerful memorials provide opportunities to discuss history with children in age-appropriate ways. The Korean War Veterans Memorial features 19 stainless steel statues of soldiers on patrol, which many children find captivating. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial’s reflective black wall creates a solemn atmosphere that even young visitors can sense. Parents can explain that the names represent real people who served our country, focusing on concepts of bravery and service rather than the complexities of war.

Must-Visit Museums for Kids in Washington DC

Washington DC’s museums are world-class and, remarkably, most are completely free to visit. The Smithsonian Institution alone operates 19 museums in the DC area, many of which feature exhibits specifically designed for young visitors. Here are the must-visit museums when exploring Washington DC with kids:

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

This perennial family favorite houses an incredible collection of natural wonders that captivate visitors of all ages. Children are immediately greeted by Henry, the 11-ton African elephant in the rotunda, setting the stage for the amazing exhibits throughout. Don’t miss the dinosaur hall, the sparkling gem and mineral collection (including the Hope Diamond), and the butterfly pavilion where kids can walk among hundreds of live butterflies (note: the butterfly pavilion requires a small fee while the rest of the museum is free).

The museum’s Discovery Room provides hands-on learning opportunities where children can touch specimens, use microscopes, and engage with interactive displays. For younger children, the museum offers scavenger hunt sheets at information desks that help focus their exploration and make learning fun.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Space enthusiasts and aviation buffs will be thrilled by the extensive collection of aircraft and spacecraft at the National Air and Space Museum. Children can see the actual Apollo 11 command module that carried astronauts to the moon, touch a real moon rock, and marvel at historic planes suspended from the ceiling. The museum’s “How Things Fly” gallery offers dozens of hands-on activities that demonstrate the principles of flight.

For an even more immersive experience, families can catch a show at the Einstein Planetarium or Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater (additional fees apply). The museum also offers free educational programs throughout the day, including story times for younger children and demonstration carts where staff explain scientific concepts through fun experiments.

Other Kid-Friendly Museums

• National Museum of American History – Features Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, the Star-Spangled Banner, and Wegmans Wonderplace, a hands-on area designed specifically for children under six.
• National Museum of the American Indian – Offers the imagiNATIONS Activity Center where kids can sit in a tipi, explore native dwellings, and try traditional activities.
• National Postal Museum – Children can climb aboard a real mail truck, design their own stamps, and sort packages in this interactive museum.
• International Spy Museum – While this museum charges admission, it’s worth it for older children who can participate in interactive spy missions and test their espionage skills.

Iconic Tours in Washington DC for Families

US Capitol Tour

A tour of the United States Capitol offers children a firsthand look at where laws are made and provides an excellent civics lesson. The Capitol Visitor Center offers free guided tours that include the magnificent Rotunda with its soaring dome and the original House of Representatives chamber. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and is suitable for children of all ages, though younger kids may have limited attention spans for the historical details.

Reservation details: Free Capitol tours can be booked up to 90 days in advance through the Capitol Visitor Center website or through your representative’s office. During peak season (spring and summer), it’s advisable to book at least a month ahead. Tours run Monday through Saturday from 8:40 AM to 3:20 PM. Security is strict, so review prohibited items before your visit and allow extra time for security screening.

White House Visit

Visiting the White House is a memorable experience for families, though it requires advance planning. Self-guided tours take visitors through the East Wing public rooms including the State Dining Room, the China Room, and the Blue, Red, and Green Rooms. Children are often fascinated by the presidential portraits and the grandeur of the rooms they’ve only seen on television.

To arrange a White House tour, U.S. citizens must contact their Member of Congress at least 21 days in advance, though requests can be submitted up to three months ahead. International visitors should contact their embassy in Washington DC. Tours are available Tuesday through Saturday mornings, and all visitors must present government-issued photo ID. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

If you’re unable to secure White House tour tickets, the White House Visitor Center on Pennsylvania Avenue offers exhibits about the White House and presidency that are engaging for children, including interactive touchscreens and historical artifacts.

Exploring the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is home to approximately 2,700 animals representing more than 390 species and offers a welcome break from museum-hopping. The zoo’s most famous residents are the giant pandas, but children also love the great apes, big cats, elephants, and the Kids’ Farm where they can get close to domestic animals.

The zoo covers 163 acres in Rock Creek Park, so be prepared for significant walking. The terrain includes some hills, but the main paths are stroller-friendly. Free shuttle buses run between the main entrance on Connecticut Avenue and the lower entrance near Rock Creek Park, making it easier to navigate with tired children.

While admission to the National Zoo is free, parking is limited and costs $30 per vehicle. Many families opt to take the Metro to the Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan station and walk about 10 minutes to the zoo entrance. As of 2023, free timed-entry passes are required and can be reserved online through the Smithsonian’s website.

Essential Tips for Washington DC Family Vacations

Best Times to Visit

The ideal times to visit Washington DC with children are late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller than during peak summer season. Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) is beautiful but extremely crowded. Summer brings longer hours at many attractions but also hot, humid weather and the largest tourist crowds. If you visit during summer, plan indoor activities during the hottest part of the day.

Stroller-Friendly Routes

The National Mall is generally stroller-friendly with paved paths, though some areas have gravel that can be challenging for strollers with small wheels. Most museums have elevators and ramps, making them accessible with strollers. Consider bringing a lightweight, collapsible stroller that’s easy to maneuver through crowded spaces and on public transportation. For families with very young children, a baby carrier might be more convenient in some situations.

Meal Planning

Museum cafes can be expensive and crowded during peak lunch hours. Consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the National Mall or in one of DC’s many parks. Food trucks around the National Mall offer diverse options at reasonable prices. For sit-down meals, the Penn Quarter and Chinatown neighborhoods near the National Mall have numerous family-friendly restaurants. Most museums allow you to exit and re-enter on the same day with your hand stamp, making it easy to take a lunch break outside.

Weather Preparedness

Washington DC experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are hot and humid, winters can be cold with occasional snow, and spring and fall are generally pleasant but variable. Pack layers that can be added or removed as temperatures change throughout the day. Rain showers are possible year-round, so a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jackets are good to have on hand. During summer, hats, sunscreen, and water bottles are essential.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Washington DC

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a successful family vacation in Washington DC. The ideal hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring while offering amenities that make traveling with children easier. Here are some top family-friendly options in convenient locations:

Sample 3-Day Washington DC Itinerary with Kids

Planning your days strategically can help you see the highlights of Washington DC while keeping children engaged and preventing exhaustion. Here’s a balanced three-day itinerary that combines major attractions with plenty of breaks:

Day 1: National Mall Highlights

• Start at the Washington Monument (if you have reserved tickets to go up)
• Visit the National Museum of Natural History
• Lunch break (picnic on the Mall or at a museum cafe)
• Explore the National Air and Space Museum
• Walk to the Lincoln Memorial, stopping at the World War II Memorial and Reflecting Pool
• Dinner in Foggy Bottom or Georgetown

Day 2: American History and Government

• Morning tour of the U.S. Capitol (pre-booked)
• Visit the Library of Congress (connected to Capitol by tunnel)
• Lunch near Eastern Market
• Explore the National Museum of American History
• White House photo opportunity (or tour if arranged)
• Evening monument tour (monuments are beautifully lit at night)

Day 3: Beyond the Mall

• Morning at the National Zoo
• Lunch in Woodley Park
• Afternoon at either the International Spy Museum (older kids) or National Building Museum (younger kids)
• Visit the U.S. Botanic Garden
• Dinner and souvenir shopping

Planning Your Washington DC Family Adventure

Washington DC offers an unparalleled opportunity for families to combine education with entertainment in a setting rich with national treasures and history. The abundance of free museums and monuments makes it an economical destination for families, while the city’s compact layout and excellent transportation options make it manageable even with young children in tow.

As you plan your trip, remember that flexibility is key when traveling with kids. Don’t try to see everything in one visit—focus on the attractions that align with your children’s interests and allow plenty of time for breaks, snacks, and the occasional meltdown. The memories you create exploring the nation’s capital together will last a lifetime, regardless of how many sites you check off your list.