things to do in washington dc with kids

Washington D.C. is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, with plenty of kid-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Washington D.C. with kids:

1. National Zoo: The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is home to over 1,800 animals, including giant pandas, orangutans, and elephants. Admission is free.
2. National Air and Space Museum: This museum is a must-visit for kids who love planes, rockets, and space exploration. Highlights include the Wright Brothers’ Flyer and the Apollo 11 command module.
3. National Museum of Natural History: This museum features a dinosaur fossil exhibit, a butterfly pavilion, and a hands-on discovery room where kids can get up close and personal with natural history specimens.
4. National Children’s Museum: This interactive museum is designed for kids aged 12 and under, with exhibits focused on art, science, and imagination.
5. Tidal Basin Paddle Boats: Rent paddle boats and enjoy a relaxing ride on the Tidal Basin, with great views of the Jefferson Memorial and the cherry blossom trees.
6. National Mall: Take a stroll along the National Mall, which stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the United States Capitol Building. You can also ride a bike or take a guided tour.
7. Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater: This theater offers interactive shows and performances for kids, including puppet shows, musicals, and more.
8. International Spy Museum: Kids love spies, and this museum has an incredible collection of spy gadgets, disguises, and espionage artifacts.
9. National Arboretum: This beautiful park has playgrounds, hiking trails, and stunning views of the city. You can also rent bikes or take a guided tour.
10. Newseum: This interactive museum is dedicated to the history of news and journalism, with exhibits that let kids be the reporter, photographer, or news anchor.
11. United States Botanic Garden: Explore the beautiful gardens, including a children’s garden with interactive exhibits and a tropical rainforest.
12. National Archives: Take a tour of the National Archives, where you can see famous documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
13. Smithsonian’s American History Museum: This museum has a variety of kid-friendly exhibits, including a collection of historic artifacts like the original Star-Spangled Banner.
14. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens: This unique park has water plants, walking trails, and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
15. Theodore R. Hagans Culture Center: This community center has a range of programs and activities for kids, including art classes, dance lessons, and sports leagues.

Additional tips:

• Many museums and attractions in Washington D.C. are free or offer free admission on certain days of the week or month.
• Consider purchasing a Washington D.C. tourist attraction pass, which can save you money on admission fees.
• Plan ahead and book tickets or tours in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
• Don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the city’s many parks and playgrounds.
• If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season (March-April), be prepared for crowds and make sure to plan ahead.

I hope this helps, and have a great trip to Washington D.C. with your kids!