Make their day: 10 things to do in Washington with kids

A treasure trove of family-friendly activities, Washington, DC offers education and excitement for all ages. Little ones will marvel at moon rocks and spacesuits in the National Air and Space Museum or let their imaginations run wild during a ghost walking tour. For outdoor adventures, take a trip to Mount Vernon or enjoy a day cheering on the Nationals at the ballpark. From the interactive exhibits at the Smithsonian museums, among the best museums in Washington, DC, to exploring iconic kid-friendly attractions like monuments and landmarks, every moment sparks curiosity and creativity. Keep reading for more fun activities for kids!

The best things to do with kids in Washington, DC, at a glance

The best thing to do with young kids in Washington, DC: Interactive exhibits at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

The best activity for teens in Washington, DC: Kayaking on the Potomac River.

The best free family-friendly experiences in Washington, DC: The monuments on the National Mall.

The best outdoor activities for families in Washington, DC: George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

1. Embark on an electrifying journey through the National Mall

From awe-inspiring monuments like the Lincoln Memorial to the exciting museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Mall is packed with kid-friendly attractions that mix fun and education. Children can marvel at towering statues, run freely on the vast lawns, and dive into interactive exhibits at spots like the National Museum of American History.

Who is it recommended for?

Perfect for kids aged 5–12 who are curious about history, art, and science. While younger kids will enjoy the open spaces, school-aged children best appreciate the highlights. Parents and teens can also enjoy the rich cultural and historical insights.

Address and opening hours:

450 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001. Start times vary.

2. Dive into the past at Mount Vernon

A picturesque ride along the Potomac River leads to George Washington’s Mount Vernon, offering lively historical reenactments. It's also an opportunity to venture into the charming Alexandria, where significant sites like the Masonic Temple and Christ Church capture the imagination.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for kids of all ages, though the historical content may not engage very young children.

Address and opening hours:

701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004. Start times vary.

3. Marvel at the wonders of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Unleash the budding explorer in each child with this Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. It will enchant children with many engaging exhibits, including the popular Dinosaur Hall and the intriguing mummies exhibit. Interactive activities will delight and educate kids, making this one of the top family-friendly activities in Washington.

Who is it recommended for?

This tour is specifically designed for children of any age.

Address and opening hours:

10th St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560. Open daily 10:00 AM-5:30 PM.

4. Explore the historic charm of Georgetown

A picturesque neighborhood, Georgetown is filled with family-friendly adventures. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, admire the historic architecture, and enjoy the scenic views of the Potomac River. Families can take a relaxing boat tour or rent bikes to explore the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. The area also boasts charming cafes and shops where kids can indulge in sweet treats after a day of exploring.

Who is it recommended for?

Perfect for all ages! Younger children will enjoy the boat rides and outdoor activities, while older kids and teens can appreciate the history and unique charm of the area.

5. Sweeten your journey through history

Combine a walk through Washington’s rich history with a delicious treat-filled adventure. Start your family-friendly exploration near Lafayette Square and wander through some of the city’s best spots for unique and flavorful pastries. Along the way, you’ll uncover historic landmarks and stories that make Washington, DC, so fascinating. It’s a perfect way to keep kids engaged while satisfying their sweet tooth and burning off energy on an active outing.

Who is it recommended for?

Great for kids of all ages and their parents. Young ones will love the sweet stops, while older kids and adults can enjoy the mix of history and indulgence.

6. Delve into the wonders at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Embark on an extraordinary journey with the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Highlights include the Apollo 11 Command Module, real moon rocks, and Buzz Aldrin’s spacesuit. Children will love discovering what it’s like to be an astronaut and tasting freeze-dried ice cream.

Who is it recommended for?

This is one of the more educational and entertaining things to do with children of all ages.

Address and opening hours:

600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560. Open daily 10:00 AM-5:30 PM.

7. Uncover the eerie allure of Washington DC

The evening fills with spine-tingling intrigue during a ghost tour of Washington, DC. As night descends, uncover the city’s haunted locations and learn about its mysterious past. Delve into tales of poltergeists, thwarted assassination attempts, and historic architecture while admiring eerie sites like the Folger Shakespeare Library and Cannon House Office Building.

Who is it recommended for?

While technically suitable for all ages, the chilling narratives and ghostly tales might be too intense for younger children.

8. Ascend on an aerial adventure with the Capital Wheel

With panoramic views extending across Washington, Maryland, and Virginia, the Capital Wheel offers an unrivaled sightseeing adventure. Hovering 180 feet above the Potomac River, each rotation unveils a new perspective of landmarks like the Washington Monument and Capitol Rotunda.

Who is it recommended for?

Suitable for kids of all ages, offering an exciting yet safe adventure in the sky.

Address and opening hours:

141 American Way, Oxon Hill, MD 20745,. Open daily 10:00 AM-10:00 PM.

9. Venture into the extraordinary at Luray Caverns

Immerse yourself in the majesty of the Luray Caverns. Besides the caverns, the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, the Gem Sluice geology experience, and the adventurous Rope Adventure Park add to the excitement. A day trip here is an unforgettable expedition for curious explorers.

Who is it recommended for?

The caverns are one of the more fun activities for kids of all ages, though the adventure park might be better for older children.

Address and opening hours:

101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835. Open daily 9:00 AM-7:00 PM.

10. Soak in the electric atmosphere at a Washington Nationals baseball game

Experience the quintessential American pastime at a baseball game. Feel the infectious energy at Nationals Park as the team battles it out on home turf. From long-time greats to rising stars, each game is an exciting display of skill, strategy, and passion.

Who is it recommended for?

This is one of the more exciting things to do in Washington with kids of all ages, especially young sports fans.

Address and opening hours:

1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003. Start times vary.

FAQs

What are some of the top family-friendly attractions in Washington?

Washington abounds with family-friendly attractions, such as the US Botanic Garden for budding botanists, the International Spy Museum for junior detectives, and the National Mall for those who love open spaces.

What are the best museums for kids in Washington?

Children will love Washington’s museums, such as the National Museum of American History, for a journey into the past, the National Museum of Natural History for aspiring biologists, and the Smithsonian American Art Museum for young creatives.

What are some fun outdoor activities for kids in Washington?

Outdoor fun in Washington can include a boat ride on the Tidal Basin, spotting animals at Rock Creek Park, or enjoying a picnic at the beautiful Meridian Hill Park.

What are some unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences to have in Washington with kids?

For unique experiences, families can ride on a paddle boat at the Tidal Basin, attend a Washington Nationals baseball game, or explore the less crowded Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens.

What are some fun day trips from Washington that are suitable for families with kids?

Exciting day trips from Washington for families could include a visit to Mount Vernon, a nature outing to the Chesapeake Bay, or a scenic drive through the Shenandoah National Park.