Washington, DC is an awesome destination for families with a diverse choice of beautiful parks and attractions for kids of all ages. Take a free guided tour of the Library of Congress, and visit the beautiful National Zoological Park.
The Library of Congress
The Library of Congress is not only the nation's oldest federal cultural institution that serves as the main research resource of Congress, but it is also the largest library in the world. It has over a million books of photographs, maps, and manuscripts in its archives. Fun and enjoyable for the whole family, the Library of Congress offers an array of guided tours, interactive exhibitions, and kiosks to explore.
Enjoy a free guided walking tour of the beautiful building in which the library is housed and learn all about its architecture, art, and history, as well as the work and history of the Library of Congress. The Young Readers Center was designed specifically for young people who love books, and it offers readings groups and story times.
The Library of Congress , 101 Independence Ave, SE, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-707-5000
National Children's Museum
The National Children's Museum is located in downtown Washington, D.C. near the famous National Mall. The museum moved to a brand-new building in late 2019 and expanded the space for many exhibits, and hands-on learning experiences help kids learn sciences, technology, engineering, arts, and math in a fun way. he museum has a modern/futuristic design, and their goal is to provide useful information and to spark creativity within kids for generations to come. The museum is large, and takes at least half a day to explore everything.
National Children's Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004, Phone: (202) 844-2486
The National Zoological Park
Making up part of the famous Smithsonian Institution, which includes 18 museums and galleries and the National Zoo, The National Zoological Park is the world's largest museum and research complex, and it always promises a fantastic day out for the whole family.
Located in Rock Creek Park in the heart of Washington, the zoo covers covers over 160 acres of land and consists of various habitats for more than 2,000 animals, including the well known resident giant pandas, Bao Bao, Tian Tian, and Mei Xiang. The zoo is also home to golden lion tamarins, sloth bears, and Asian elephants, as well as marine animals, reptiles, and amphibians.
The zoo also houses a research, conservation, and education center for endangered species such as the red panda and the river turtle, and it offers an array of educational classes, camps, and programs for children of all ages.
The National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-633-3038
The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum
Home to the world's largest collection of aviation and space artifacts, The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum is a world-renowned institution that provides information encompassing all aspects of human flight. The museum is located in two historic buildings that house a vast collection of items and artifacts relating to the space and aviation industry. It features a range of exhibitions on aviation, planetary science, and space exploration.
The museum is located in the heart of the Smithsonian complex in Washington, DC, and boasts some of the world’s most awe-inspiring icons of flight. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, on the other hand, is situated near the Washington Dulles International Airport and showcases a variety of aircraft and spacecraft, as well as collections of aviation and space artifacts in vast hangars.
Both museums present a variety of educational programs, activities, and performances that reflect the American spirit and enthusiasm for the science and technology of flight.
The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, Independence Ave, 6th St. NW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-633-2214
The Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Home to one of America’s most influential founding fathers, The Thomas Jefferson Memorial stands as a symbol of liberty, reflection, and inspiration for visitors from around the world. Known as the founding father of America, Thomas Jefferson served as the first Secretary of State for the United States of America. Designed by architect John Russell Pope in a Classic Revival style, the memorial stands directly in line with The White House.
Spectacular cherry blossom trees and a reflective Tidal Basin with dark, tranquil waters surround the memorial. It is open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, and National Park Service Rangers are on hand to provide interpretive programs at certain times of the day and to answer questions.
The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, 900 Ohio Drive, SW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-426-6841
The National Museum of Natural History
Dedicated to inspiring curiosity, discovery, and exploration of the natural world through a world-class range of collections, exhibitions, and educational outreach programs, The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is one of the world’s preeminent museums and one of the top DC attractions.
Located on the National Mall and administered by the Smithsonian Institute, the Museum has an impressive collection of over 126 million specimens, ranging from animals, plants, rocks, and minerals to fossils, meteorites, and cultural artifacts, all of which are displayed in over 350,000 square feet of exhibition space. The museum’s new Q?rius is a first-of-its-kind interactive and experimental environment in which visitors can connect science with everyday life through hands-on activities, adventures, and experiments - a must for the kids.
The National Museum of Natural History, 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-633-1000
International Spy Museum
When you’re traveling with kids (and even when you’re not), the International Spy Museum in Washington DC is undeniably one of the coolest attractions to visit. This one-of-a-kind museum is housed in a 140,000-square-foot glass and steel building and features quirky, as well as cheeky, exhibits. Visitors will begin by receiving a unique spy identity and even their own undercover mission before heading into the museum to check out various exhibits. See a collection of spy tools, learn about the history of spies, and even visit a hands-on exhibit where you can try breaking codes and deciphering spy messages. Not to be missed is a collection of seemingly everyday items with deadly hidden features.
International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza, SW Washington DC 20024, Phone: 202-393-7798
District Warf
District Warf is a mile-long stretch of waterfront in Washington D.C. along the Potomac River, just south of the National Mall. With a long and rich history, it is now ready to come to life again with hip restaurants, fashionable boutiques, residences, and businesses, all enjoying monumental views of the river.
The first phase of District Wharf is already complete and fully thriving. Each area of District Wharf has its own distinct personality, and the mile-long waterfront neighborhood is a delight to explore. There are areas catering to foodies right next door to the city’s best shopping, down the street from a verdant park open for relaxation or exercise. What was once a Native American settlement, then later L’Enfant’s vision of a gateway for the nation’s capital, a military hub, and even a fish market, is now a wonderful destination for residents and visitors. Map
Founding Farmers & Distillers
Founding Farmers & Distillers is the most diverse restaurant founded by restaurateurs Dan Simons and Mike Vucurevich, as well as the over forty-seven thousand farmers with the North Dakota Farmers Union. The pair opened Farmers Fishers Bakers and Founding Farmers with a goal of connecting diners closer to the food source. Founding Farmers & Distillers continues that tradition and has shortened the supply chain, increased demand, and gotten family-farmed American products closer to the glass and plate. Founding Farmers & Distillers serves carefully sourced, made-from-scratch, delicious food to both visitors and locals alike in Washington, DC, including a brunch buffet on the weekends.
Founding Farmers & Distillers, 600 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, Phone: 202-464-3001
The Washington Monument
The Washington Monument is a 555-foot marble obelisk that towers over Washington, D.C. It was built in honor of the United States' first president, George Washington and stands today in honor of his greatness. Designed by Robert Mills and completed by Thomas Casey in 1884, the monument is built in the shape of an Egyptian obelisk and was once the tallest structure in the world. Visitors can take guided tours in the monument’s interior.
Once inside, they can enjoy unobstructed panoramic views from the observation deck 500 feet above the ground. Just below the observation deck is a museum, which presents the history of the monument and delineates the events leading up to its construction. Visitors can stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens around the monument and take in its splendor free of charge.
The Washington Monument , 900 Ohio Drive, SW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-426-6841
Ice Cream Jubilee
Crisp, clean and fresh, with high ceilings and Adirondack chairs on the front patio overlooking the river, the Yard's Park Ice Cream Jubilee shop makes you feelcool even before you taste the ice cream. Everything is made in small batches, of natural ingredients.
Depending on the season, expect mixes such as Mango Habanero, Sweet Potato Pie, Pear and Brandy or Bourbon Caramel. No matter what time of year, Caramel Popcorn is everyone's favorite.There is alcohol involved in many flavors, but fear not - while you will enjoy the flavor, there is not enough alcohol to get you drunk. You can find Ice Cream Jubilee flavors in many grocery stores in Washington DC.
Ice Cream Jubilee, 301 Water St SE, Washington 20003, Phone: 202-863-0727
National Geographic Museum
If you love watching shows on the National Geographic Museum or other similar programs, then you and your family will love a trip to the National Geographic Museum. There is no shortage of interesting and engaging displays to visit here as the museum is constantly welcoming visiting collections from all over the world such as the immersive and cinematic Beyond King Tut exhibition. The museum is also home to a gorgeous permanent collection from National Geographic’s many years of publications. See stunning photos up close, learn about famous artifacts from around the world, or visit interactive learning corners that are perfect for curious young and old minds alike.
National Geographic Museum, 1145 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, Phone: 202-857-7700
The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History
Located on Constitution Avenue NW in Washington, D,C., The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History is part of the world-renowned Smithsonian Institution and offers visitors an informative and educational insight into America’s history. Opened in 1964 and now considered a National Historical Landmark, the Museum features an extensive collection of over three million artifacts, ranging from sheet music written by musical legend Duke Ellington to the ruby slippers worn by Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, as well as the favorite item of all - the Star-Spangled Banner Flag, which flew over Fort McHenry in Baltimore during the War of 1812.
Centrally located in the heart of Washington, DC, the museum is situated within walking distance of a number of other landmarks and monuments, including the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the World War II Memorial. The National Mall is also located nearby.
The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-789-7000
The United States National Arboretum
Operated by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Center, The United States National Arboretum is a garden open to the public. Visitors can admire the various trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants that have been cultivated for educational and scientific purposes. Located in northeast Washington, D.C. just a short walk from the Capitol Building, the arboretum is accessible from entrances on New York Avenue and 24th and R Streets.
Spread over nine miles with a network of roads, paths, and trails, the garden consists of a range of botanical collections and manicured gardens to stroll through and enjoy, either by foot, bicycle, bus, or car. There are plenty of places throughout the park to picnic and take in the beautiful surroundings with the family, and guided tours are offered for groups of 10 or more. The arboretum is open every day of the year except Christmas Day, and admission is free.
The United States National Arboretum, 3501 New York Avenue, NE, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-245-2726
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Home to one of the largest collections of American art in the world, the Smithsonian American Art Museum features an unrivaled collection of artworks, and it highlights America's rich artistic and cultural history from the colonial period to the present. Housed in a National Historical Landmark building in the heart of Washington's downtown cultural district, the museum’s collection features works from a range of periods, including African American and Latino art, masterpieces from the Gilded Age, and American Impressionist paintings.
The museum also showcases examples of American visual culture, such as photography. Dedicated to facilitating understanding and delight in American art, the museum also offers classroom and video conferencing, gallery talks, Girl Scout programs, and community outreach programs for adults and children.
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 750 9th Street, N.W., Suite 3100, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-633-7970
