12 Things To Do with Kids in Washington D.C.

 A journey to Washington D.C. is unlike any other. This U.S. Capital offers an endless quantity of must-sees and must-dos for kids and grown-ups alike.

Known for its world-class museums, beautiful parks, and top-notch food, it’s a nice place to foster a love of historical past and culture.

So, if you’re thinking of taking your loved ones to visit, you’ll want to take a glance at this list of 12 issues to do with kids in Washington D.C.

Travel Considerations

• The space round Washington D.C. has three main airports – Reagan National, Dulles, and BWI. Of all three, Reagan National is the most convenient.
• If you want to journey from one a half of the metropolis to another, Metro and MetroRail are good choices because they're affordable and easy-to-use. They are additionally the best choice for transportation to and from the airport. Avoid renting a car if possible, since metropolis parking is expensive, in a single day parking charges at hotels are usually high, and if you’re not acquainted with the city, navigating it may be challenging.
• To take benefit of of your time, spend your mornings inside the museums at and throughout the National Mall, and your evenings on the monuments and memorials. At that time, the monuments and memorials are far much less crowded and they’re additionally beautifully lit.
• What makes a go to to Washington D.C. amazing is that so many of the attractions are free! This includes the Capitol Building, the Smithsonian Museums, and the Library of Congress. So that means you can spend as much, or as little, time as you’d like with out the fear of entrance fees.
• Washington D.C. is extraordinarily bike pleasant and has loads of paths. It’s a nice way to journey throughout the National Mall. You can rent bikes or take benefit of a number of bike-share stations throughout the city.

What to Pack

• You’ll most likely be strolling a number of miles every day! So comfortable strolling shoes are a must.
• Younger kids can struggle with the quantity of strolling you’ll be doing, so little legs will appreciate having an umbrella stroller or child carrier.
• To keep from getting dehydrated, pack a refillable, collapsible water bottle.
• Stay safe from the sun’s rays by packing loads of sunscreen, sunglasses, and sunhats.
• A daypack will come in handy to hold your gear in addition to snacks and souvenirs.

4 Must-Stay Hotels in Washington D.C.

With so many issues to do, the very final factor you want are hotel hassles. That’s why we’ve gathered a list of four must-stay hotels in Washington D.C. that are perfect for the entire family.

1. The Watergate Hotel – Overlooking the Potomac River, this hotel has plenty to supply families. Kids will love splashing inside the indoor pool and parents will love visiting the spa for a relaxing treatment. On weekends, the hotel offers afternoon tea.
2. Hotel Madera – Located 2 miles from the National Mall, this hotel offers family-sized rooms, together with bunk mattress options. It has a fun, modern vibe and has easy entry to the MetroRail.
3. Omni Shoreham Hotel – This historic hotel is in a residential neighborhood and is shut to the Metro. It’s additionally inside strolling distance of the National Zoo. Kids and parents alike will love hanging out on the resort-style pool.
4. The Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington D.C. Chevy Chase Pavilion – This hotel makes the perfect home base. Enjoy complimentary breakfast every morning and a swim inside the indoor pool after a lengthy day of exploring.

5 Kid-Pleasing Dining Options in Washington D.C.

The museum’s cafes offer an easy and affordable option for daytime meals, with out trekking too far. But if you’re looking for different options, check out our list of 5 kid-pleasing eating options.

1. Ben’s Chili Bowl – Everyone is household at this popular eating spot that’s been round for greater than 60 years. Dig into fresh homemade chili and scrumptious half smokes, or enjoy some banana pudding.
2. Pavilion Cafe – Located on the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, this cafe offers jazz music throughout the summer and a winter wonderland of ice skating inside the winter months. Make certain to come hungry to enjoy toasted sandwiches and yummy flatbreads.
3. Founding Farmers – This eating spot is popular with locals and vacationers alike. They offer everything from breakfast to dinner in addition to brunch on the weekends. Eat at their farm-style eating tables or the popular silo-shaped booths. The restaurant is owned by American household farmers and everything is made from scratch.
4. Old Ebbitt Grill – Don’t let the fanciness idiot you, this restaurant is household friendly. It’s a real piece of American historical past and was host to many US Presidents. They even have an amazing children’s menu.
5. Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken – This magical little doughnut store always appears to have an enormous line. But it’s truly worth the wait since the doughnuts are loopy creative and tremendous tasty! And if you’re craving one factor savory, their fried chicken choices are a must-eat.

12 Things To Do with Kids in Washington D.C.

1. The National Mall – This large public park offers tons of options, together with museums and monuments – with the Lincoln Memorial at one finish and the U.S. Capitol constructing on the other. You’ll discover open grassy areas to relaxation and play, and loads of meals trucks that are perfect for a fast meal or snack.
2. The Smithsonian Museums – These museums are completely free to enjoy and explore, and most can be found alongside The National Mall. Two of our favourite museums are the Natural History Museum and the Air & Space Museum. The Natural History Museum is home to endless rooms full of thrilling exhibits together with fossils, butterflies, Ancient Egypt, and the Hall of Mammals. At the Air & Space Museum, kids will be blown away by the plane hanging from the ceiling. You can additionally go to the IMAX theater, the planetarium, and endless exhibits. Check out the hyperlink above to discover out extra about all of the amazing Smithsonian Museums.
3. U.S. Capitol Building – Be certain to schedule a tour of this iconic landmark. You’ll want to order timed tickets on-line earlier than visiting. If your loved ones would like a free, private tour, attain out to your state’s Senator or Congressional Representative – they want to have directions on their website. Explore the customer center and gift shops and go to the meals court for an easy lunch.
4. National Building Museum – This museum has loads of kid-friendly exhibits. Must-sees are the Work Play Build room the place you can play with life-size foam tinker toys and the Building Zone, an interactive playroom for kids ages two to six. Take benefit of a free story time or enjoy a espresso inside the beautiful atrium.
5. Library of Congress – This ornate library is the perfect cease for all of the book lovers. Interesting fact: you can entry the library through a tunnel from the Capitol Building! Take a free docent-led tour and be certain to take a glance on the gift shop.
6. US Botanic Gardens – This spot is a real treasure and offers a enjoyable change from a day on the museums. Stretch your legs and enjoy a inexperienced oasis. Explore outdoor fountains and gardens and the Tarzan-like rainforest area.
7. International Spy Museum – It’s a little bit of a splurge, however the entire household will love the expertise at this world-class museum. Kids will love having the ability to decide on their very personal character and become a spy. Explore exhibits, spy gear and gadgets, interactive displays, and James Bond memorabilia.
8. Washington Monument – This monument is the highest freestanding stone sculpture inside the world. Grab a ticket for the elevator that will take you to the highest of the monument, the place you can take in views of the city. The base of the monument offers the best view of the White House. Make certain to order tickets on-line earlier than you go.
9. Mount Vernon – Located half-hour from the city, you’ll want to make the most of Uber, Lyft, or taxis. The excursions of the house and museum are amazing, and the kids will love exploring the grounds, visiting the working farm, and assembly the animals. A meals court makes lunchtime handy. You can spend an entire day here, so plan ahead.
10. National Zoo – The zoo is home to over 2700 animals with the Giant Pandas being the biggest attraction by far. Be certain to go to the Kids Farm, the Small Mammals exhibit, and the Great Ape House. Kids will love splashing their feet in Tide Pool on the American Trail.
11. Georgetown Waterfront Park – Take in views of the Potomac River and the Key Bridge at this lush, 10-acre park. Rent a canoe or kayak, wave to the swimming ducks, or splash inside the fountain. And be certain to not miss the twists and turns inside the Labyrinth.
12. National Children’s Museum – Located shut to The National Mall, this museum hosts many exhibits and loads of hands-on studying experiences in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Allow at least half a day to discover the entire museum.

This metropolis offers loads of enjoyable and academic choices for the entire family. To assist you plan the perfect trip, be certain to save these tips and our list of 12 issues to do with kids in Washington D.C.!