Basics: Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a walkable and family-friendly city with a mix of history, museums, green spaces, and iconic landmarks. It’s a great destination for families, especially because many top attractions are free and close together.

 

Parking in D.C. can be challenging. Street parking is limited, metered, and often has time restrictions. Many popular areas, like the National Mall or downtown near museums, have few available spots and fill up quickly.

There are paid parking garages, but they can be expensive and not always close to attractions. If you're driving into the city, it’s usually best to park once and rely on public transit or walking the rest of the day. Apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz can help you reserve a garage space in advance.

 

For getting around, public transportation is highly recommended. The Washington Metro (Metrorail) is safe, clean, stroller-friendly, and easy to navigate, with color-coded lines that serve most major tourist spots. Kids under five ride free with a paying adult. Metro stations are near the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and other key areas. Metrobus is another option, and it can reach places that are less accessible by rail.

 

Minyan: There are year-round minyanim at The SHUL and Kesher Israel. Be sure to check individual shul websites for up-to-date minyan times.

 

Additionally, there are multiple minyanim daily in the suburbs around Washington DC.

 

Kosher Food: Washington DC has a variety of kosher establishments across different neighborhoods.

Here are a few by area:

 

Northwest Washington:

• Baked by Yael (DC Kosher)

• Oh Mama Grill DC (VAAD Greater Washington)

• Char Bar (VAAD Greater Washington)

• District Pickle and American University (Star K)

• Zingers at GW Hillel (OU)

• DC Vegan (BW Kashrut)

• Shouk (DC Kosher)

 

Central Washington:

• PLNT Burger (IKC)

• Hip City Veg (IKC)

• Bubbie’s Plant Burgers at Plant Food Lab (DC Kosher)

• Pow Pow (DC Kosher)

 

Weather: Weather in D.C. varies significantly throughout the year, so packing appropriately is important. Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and the famous cherry blossoms usually blooming in late March or early April. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often in the 80s or 90s, so lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential. Fall (September to November) brings cooler, comfortable weather and beautiful fall colors, while winter (December to February) can be chilly with occasional snow, so bundle up if visiting then.

 

Hotels & Attractions: Attractions in D.C. are largely centered around the National Mall, a large, open park space surrounded by Smithsonian museums, monuments, and memorials. The Smithsonian museums are all free to enter. The monuments, such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, are impressive and easy to explore on foot or by hop-on-hop-off tour buses. The U.S. Capitol and the White House also offer tours, though these often require advance reservations and security checks.

 

When it comes to accommodations, families typically stay in areas like Downtown, Penn Quarter, or near the National Mall for convenience. These neighborhoods are close to major attractions and offer a range of hotels, including options with suites or connecting rooms. Dupont Circle is another good option, with a more residential feel but still within reach of the main sights. If you prefer more space and don't mind staying a little outside the city, National Harbor in Maryland offers larger hotels and kid-friendly entertainment. Since D.C. has a reliable and clean Metro system, even staying slightly farther from the center can be convenient.