Washington DC

General Information

We’ve visited Washington, D.C. many times, either as day trips from Baltimore or short 2–3 day stays. Over time, we combined the activities we did into one comprehensive list of family-friendly attractions.

While we haven’t yet managed to secure access to a White House tour, we definitely recommend trying, based on the great reviews we’ve heard from others who have taken it.

Museums & Educational Fun

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., is an amazing place for kids who love space, airplanes, and big adventures. Inside, you can see real airplanes and rockets up close, even ones that went into space! One of the coolest things is that you can touch a real moon rock, which came from the moon. The museum has fun, hands-on exhibits where kids can learn how planes fly, how astronauts live in space, and how rovers explore Mars. You’ll see spacesuits, satellites, and giant airplanes hanging from the ceiling. There are also flight simulators and science shows that make learning exciting. It’s the perfect place for young explorers.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a fascinating and fun place for kids to explore the wonders of the natural world. One of the biggest highlights is the dinosaur hall, where you can see life-sized dinosaur skeletons, including a towering T. rex! There are also real mummies, sparkling gems, and a giant blue whale model that hangs from the ceiling. Kids will love the Hall of Oceans, where they can learn about sea creatures, and the Insect Zoo, where live bugs crawl and fly right before your eyes. Don’t miss the beautiful Butterfly Pavilion, where you can walk among hundreds of butterflies fluttering all around you.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

For kids (and parents!) who love history, the Museum of American History brings the past to life. You can see the actual Star-Spangled Banner flag that inspired the national anthem, explore old-fashioned cars and trains, and even see dresses worn by First Ladies. There are fun exhibits about inventions, pop culture, and how kids lived in different time periods. Some areas are super interactive, like learning how people cooked, traveled, or went to school long ago. It’s a great place to explore American stories, big and small.

National Postal Museum

The Smithsonian National Postal Museum is a quieter but super fun museum that’s perfect for kids who like to explore at their own pace. Inside, kids can climb into a real mail truck, see old trains and airplanes that once carried mail, and even design their own postage stamps. There are cool exhibits showing how letters and packages travel all around the world—from big cities to tiny towns—and how people used to send mail before phones and computers. With hands-on activities and fun ways to learn, it’s a great spot for young visitors. Plus, it’s usually less crowded than the bigger museums.

International Spy Museum – Washington, D.C.

If you’ve ever dreamed of being a secret agent, the Spy Museum is the place to go! Kids can take on a secret identity, crack codes, crawl through air ducts, and test their spy skills through fun, interactive exhibits. You’ll learn about real spies, gadgets, and daring missions from around the world. There are disguises to try on, secret messages to solve, and even spy cameras hidden in everyday objects. It's exciting, hands-on, and perfect for curious kids who love mysteries and adventure.

Museum of Illusions – Washington, D.C.

Get ready to trick your eyes and blow your mind at the Museum of Illusions! This fun and funky museum is filled with rooms and exhibits that mess with how you see the world. Walk through upside-down rooms, shrink or grow in size with optical illusions, and take photos that make it look like you're floating or standing on the ceiling. Kids love the hands-on puzzles and brain teasers that challenge your mind and make you say, “Wait… how did that happen?” It’s a playful and exciting experience that’s perfect for all ages—and don’t forget your camera, because the photo ops are amazing!

Planet Word Museum – Washington, D.C.

The Planet Word Museum is a magical place where words come to life! This fully interactive museum is perfect for kids who love reading, singing, or just being creative. You can sing karaoke, create your own story, talk to walls that talk back, and even make a giant book “speak”. There are games, lights, sounds, and fun surprises in every room. Whether your child loves silly jokes, spelling games, or storytelling, this museum makes learning about language super fun.

ARTECHOUSE DC – Washington, D.C.

ARTECHOUSE is like stepping into a digital dream! This one-of-a-kind art space is filled with giant, glowing rooms where light, color, and sound move all around you. Kids can dance with glowing shapes, walk through moving art, and explore exhibits that react to motion and touch. It’s a great place for kids who love bright lights, music, and sensory play. The exhibits change often, so there's always something new and exciting to experience. A perfect stop for curious and creative minds!

White House Tours – Washington, D.C.

Visiting the White House is like stepping into a real-life history book! On a tour, families can walk through some of the same rooms where presidents work, meet with leaders, and host important events. Kids will love seeing fancy rooms like the East Room and State Dining Room, and they might even spot the famous Presidential portraits on the walls. While you don’t get to see the President, it’s still super cool to explore one of the most famous buildings in the world. Just remember—tours must be requested in advance, so plan ahead!

U.S. Capitol Tours – Washington, D.C.

A visit to the U.S. Capitol lets kids see where laws are made and big decisions happen! On a guided tour, families can walk through the beautiful Capitol Rotunda, see giant statues, and learn fun facts about how Congress works. There’s even a cool underground tunnel that connects to the Capitol Visitor Center, which has kid-friendly exhibits and videos. It’s a great way for kids to understand how our government works while exploring one of D.C.’s most impressive buildings. Tours are free, but it’s a good idea to reserve tickets ahead of time—especially during busy seasons!

Animals & Nature

Smithsonian National Zoo – Washington, D.C.

The Smithsonian National Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers. Kids can see amazing animals like giant pandas, elephants, lions, and gorillas up close. There’s also a fun Kids’ Farm, where little ones can meet farm animals and learn how to care for them. Don’t miss the colorful carousel near the entrance, which is a big hit with younger kids.

United States Botanic Garden – Washington, D.C.

Step into a lush, green world at the United States Botanic Garden, where kids can explore beautiful indoor gardens, a tropical jungle canopy walk, and a fun, hands-on Children’s Garden where they can dig, water, and plant. It’s a peaceful, calm place that still offers lots of discovery and learning for curious young minds. Whether it's looking at strange desert plants or walking through a rainforest room, it's a great way to enjoy nature, even if the weather outside isn’t perfect.

National Mall

The National Mall is more than just a place to see famous monuments, it’s also a giant, grassy playground! Kids love to run around, fly kites, or just relax with a picnic between visits to the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and other iconic sights. It’s a great place to stretch your legs between museums and take in the beauty of D.C.

Yards Park

Yards Park is a family-friendly waterfront park with lots of room to run, splash, and play. In warm weather, kids love the splash pad and fountains, and there are walking trails, grassy areas for picnics, and space to just be a kid. It’s a perfect spot to relax near the water after a busy day of sightseeing.

The Wharf DC

The Wharf is a fun and scenic riverfront area where families can enjoy the outdoors together. Kids love watching the boats, playing along the wide boardwalk, and joining in on seasonal activities like outdoor music, games, or mini-festivals. There’s plenty of space to walk, explore, and relax by the water. It’s a great spot for some fresh air and fun after a day of sightseeing.

Scotts Run Nature Preserve – Virginia

If your family loves exploring the outdoors, Scotts Run Nature Preserve is a great spot for easy hiking and discovering nature close to the city. Kids can walk along peaceful trails that wind through forests and beside a beautiful creek with small waterfalls. It’s perfect for spotting birds, butterflies, and maybe even a frog or two. Bring a picnic and enjoy the fresh air surrounded by trees and wildlife!

Theodore Roosevelt Island – Washington, D.C.

Theodore Roosevelt Island is a quiet, wooded island right on the Potomac River where kids can explore nature trails and learn about wildlife and conservation. The trails are easy and shady, making it a fun place for little adventurers to spot birds, squirrels, and colorful plants. There’s a big statue of President Roosevelt, who loved the outdoors, and plenty of space to run, explore, and enjoy being outside.

Boating in D.C. at Key Bridge Boathouse

For a fun family activity on the water, head to the Key Bridge Boathouse, where you can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards to explore the Potomac River. It’s a great way to see the city from a new perspective while paddling near the monuments and bridges. Perfect for kids who love water adventures and being active outdoors!

Chessie’s Big Backyard – Alexandria, Virginia

Chessie’s Big Backyard is a popular outdoor play area located in Lee District Park, designed especially for young children. The playground features nature-themed climbing structures, a treehouse, and slides. It also includes a splash pad (seasonal) and nearby picnic areas.

Rides & Tours

DC Duck Tours – Washington, D.C.

If you want to see all the cool sights in D.C. without getting too tired, DC Duck Tours are perfect! The Duck Tours are extra special because the vehicles can drive on the streets and splash right into the water for a fun boat ride. Kids love riding in these big, bright vehicles while spotting famous monuments and landmarks. It’s a fun, easy way to explore the city with little ones who might get tired of walking.

National Mall Carousel – Washington, D.C.

The National Mall Carousel is a classic merry-go-round located near the Smithsonian Castle. It’s a favorite stop for young kids who love riding on colorful horses and chariots that go round and round. It’s the perfect little break during a day of exploring museums and monuments, with music and smiles all around!

Union Station – Washington, D.C.

Union Station is a beautiful, historic train station where kids can see real trains coming and going. The grand building has amazing architecture, with big windows, high ceilings, and cool details to admire. While here, families can watch travelers rush by and maybe even catch a train if they’re feeling adventurous. It’s a fun and lively spot that feels like stepping into a busy storybook!

Harpers Ferry Adventure Center – Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

For families who love adventure, the Harpers Ferry Adventure Center, located an hour and a half from DC, offers exciting outdoor activities like zip-lining, white-water rafting, and hiking. It’s a great way to add a little thrill to your trip and enjoy beautiful mountain scenery.