Things to do and Where to go In a Family Trip to Washington DC (With Kids Under 10)

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Taking young kids to Washington DC might sound a little intimidating at first — I totally get it. That was my first thought too. But after visiting with my two boys (both under 10 at the time), I’m here to tell you: DC is actually one of the most family-friendly cities in the U.S. Once you read through this, I think you’ll see why it should be high on your family travel list.

First off — everything educational is FREE. I’m not kidding. That alone made the trip worthwhile for me. And for my boys? They loved it because there were so many places where they could move, explore, and actually think — sometimes all at once. DC gave them the space to run around and exercise their brains.

We started with the National Mall, which stretches two miles from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. It’s basically one huge playground of American history and inspiration. The boys had a blast climbing the steps at the Lincoln Memorial and trying to spot the top of the Washington Monument from different angles.

The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum was hands-down a favorite. It’s the most visited museum in the world — and I totally see why. It’s packed with interactive exhibits that pull kids in and make learning fun. And guess what? It’s just one of 16 Smithsonian museums and galleries in DC — all of them completely free.

Our family of four spent less than you think during our DC trip — and that included flights, hotel, meals, and outings. That’s pretty incredible considering how much we got to experience. If you’re planning ahead and know where to look, DC is a destination that won’t break your budget.

Two other standouts for us were the National Zoo, which focuses on conservation (and has pandas!), and the National Museum of American History, where hands-on exhibits kept my kids totally engaged.

We also figured out a few things that helped us get around easily and enjoy the city without stress — like using the Metro, packing snacks, and planning one or two big activities per day instead of cramming too much in.

I’d love to share some of those practical tips and the exact itinerary we used to make this trip smooth and memorable. But most of all, I want you to know: Washington DC is totally doable with kids — and absolutely worth it. You don’t have to spend a fortune, and your kids will walk away smarter, more curious, and maybe even more proud to be part of this country’s story.

Day 1: We explore Monuments and Museums on the National Mall

If you’re planning a family trip to Washington DC, I highly recommend starting with the National Mall. It was the first place we visited — and it set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. This iconic two-mile stretch from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial is packed with must-see monuments and free museums that help kids connect with American history in a real, meaningful way.

Must-Do Museums: Natural History & American History

We started heading into the Smithsonian museums — all free and perfect for kids. The National Museum of Natural History was a huge hit. My boys were fascinated by the giant dinosaur skeletons, dazzled by the Hope Diamond, and couldn’t get enough of the hands-on Discovery Room where they got to use microscopes and touch real specimens.

And yes, we had to get that classic photo in front of the elephants at the entrance!

Smithsonian Natural History + American History Museum Tour

Next up was the American History Museum, which totally surprised me with how kid-friendly it is. If you have little ones (ages 0–6), Wegmans Wonderplace is a must. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday and has 1,700 square feet of hands-on fun — from a mini version of Julia Child’s kitchen to a ship’s slide and pretend farmer’s market. My younger one didn’t want to leave!

For older kids (ages 6–12), Spark!Lab was a highlight. It’s a creative, interactive space where kids can build, invent, and explore how innovation works. Meanwhile, us parents got to geek out over American treasures like the Star-Spangled Banner and Dorothy’s ruby slippers.

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History – Exclusive Guided Tour

What to See at the Smithsonian Museums in D.C. with Kids Under 10

If you’re wondering which ones will wow your little ones and sneak in some learning, these two Smithsonian favorites deliver big.

Smithsonian Museum Exhibit: Touch a Mars Rock With Your Kids

Of all the things we did in Washington, D.C., this might be the one my kids are still talking about: they touched a real piece of Mars. No joke.

At the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, there’s this incredible moment tucked into the Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals where you can walk right up and put your hand on an actual Martian rock. It’s a piece of the Nakhla meteorite — a chunk of Mars that somehow traveled 33 million miles through space, crash-landed on Earth in Egypt over 100 years ago, and now lives… right here in D.C.

To be honest, I wasn’t expecting to geek out as much as I did. But watching my kids’ eyes widen when they realized what they were touching? Goosebumps. My youngest kept asking, “Wait, this is really from space?” And my oldest tried to convince me he felt “cosmic energy” through his fingertips.

The area is super kid-friendly, with simple explanations and interactive displays that even little ones can understand. And for us parents? It’s one of those rare “cool-mom” moments where you’re both learning and making lifelong memories together — no extra cost, no long line, no screen involved.

Tip: This part of the museum is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it — it’s near the meteorites and gems. So make sure to ask a docent if you’re having trouble finding it. Oh, and don’t forget to charge your phone. You’ll want a photo of your kids touching another planet.

💎 The Sparkle Room: Gems & Jewelry

Where: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Need a little magic after all the bones? Head straight to the Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals. This gallery is a glittering wonderland, featuring everything from rainbow geodes to the world-famous Hope Diamond.

Even younger kids will be amazed by the glowing rocks, colorful crystals, and enormous gems on display. There’s also a space dedicated to how gems are formed — a great way to mix in science with all the sparkle.

🧠 Kid Tip: Ask your child to find their birthstone in the gemstone cases!

🦕 Roar-Worthy Dinosaurs

Where: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
If your kiddo is in the dino phase (or never grew out of it), the Fossil Hall is a dream come true. The newly renovated David H. Koch Hall of Fossils is home to giant T. rex skeletons, triceratops, stegosaurus, and a massive woolly mammoth.

What makes it even better for kids under 10? Everything is at their eye level. You’ll find interactive touchscreens, fossils you can touch, and walkways that lead right under the dinosaur skeletons — which makes it feel like a real-life Jurassic adventure.

🧠 Kid Tip: Grab a scavenger hunt map at the entrance or challenge them to find the tiniest fossil in the room!

Honestly, I can’t recommend the National Mall enough as a first stop in DC. It helped us ground our trip in history, kept the kids active and engaged, and gave us incredible family memories — all without spending a dime. If you’re heading to DC soon, I hope our experience helps you plan a visit that’s both fun and meaningful.

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History – Exclusive Guided Tour

Lincoln Memorial at Sunset

Don’t miss the Washington Monument

If you decide to start at the Washington Monument, that’s another great option. We planned ahead and reserved elevator tickets online — just a $1 service fee! The view from the 500-foot observation deck is totally worth it. If you don’t get tickets in advance, you can try for the free same-day tickets, but those go fast — so get there early.

Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour

Visit the National Air and Space Museum: Blast Off to the Rocket Room

If you have more time during the day before visiting Washington Monument or Lincoln memorial The rocket section of the museum is just plain cool. There are life-size missiles and space rockets, some hanging overhead and others displayed so you can walk right up to them.

The best part for kids? The museum’s “Exploring the Planets” and “Early Flight” exhibits are filled with hands-on, sensory-rich experiences. They can pretend to be astronauts, use simulators, and discover what it’s like to live in space.

🧠 Kid Tip: Look for the model of the Mars rover and let your kids compare its size to their own

The Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum Exclusive Guided Tour

Touch a Piece of the Moon

One of the most unforgettable (and surprisingly emotional) moments of our trip was watching my kids reach out to touch an actual piece of the moon. Yes — a real lunar rock brought back from the Apollo 17 mission is on display and you’re allowed to touch it! It’s one of the only moon rocks in the world available for public interaction.

You’ll find it in the “Destination Moon” exhibit, where space history truly comes to life. The room is full of real spacecraft, astronaut suits, and stories from the space race. There’s even the Apollo 11 command module — the actual capsule that carried Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to the moon and back.

 Kid Tip: Younger kids love the hands-on interactive features. Let them try the touchscreens, watch rocket launch videos, and “pilot” a virtual lander.

The Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum Exclusive Guided Tour

My Tried-and-True Tips for Navigating the National Mall With Young Kids

After spending a full day exploring the National Mall with my two young kids, I learned that success really comes down to smart prep. Here’s what made our experience enjoyable (and meltdown-free!), along with a few things I highly recommend if you’re planning your own family adventure in DC.

1. Wear Comfy Shoes — You’ll Walk A Lot: I had no idea how much walking we’d do — by the end of the day, we’d logged over 15,000 steps. Trust me, comfortable shoes for everyone (parents and kids) are essential. I also suggest breaking in new shoes before your trip to avoid blisters.

2. Yes, Bring the Stroller: Even if your child doesn’t usually need one anymore, the Mall is a long stretch for little legs. We brought a lightweight stroller, and I was so glad we did. It saved us from carrying tired kiddos and gave them a chance to rest while we kept moving.

3. Snacks and Water Save the Day: Food options are surprisingly limited around the Mall. We packed plenty of snacks and refillable water bottles, and that helped us avoid both hunger-related tantrums and expensive impulse buys. A small cooler backpack worked great.

4. Go Early to Beat the Crowds: Museums open at 10:00 a.m., and getting there right when doors open made a big difference. We avoided long lines and had quieter exhibits all to ourselves for a while. By early afternoon, the crowds really pick up — especially between 1–4 p.m.

5. Use the DC Circulator Bus: We discovered the DC Circulator bus, and it was a lifesaver. It only costs $1.00 per ride and loops around the National Mall, which helped us cover more ground with less effort. We hopped on and off between museums and monuments.

6. Weekdays Are Your Best Bet: If you can, plan your visit for a weekday, especially Monday or Wednesday — those were by far the least crowded days during our trip. The wide lawns around the Mall were perfect for taking breaks, having a quick snack picnic, or letting the kids run off some steam between activities.

Starting our DC adventure at the National Mall helped us set the pace for the rest of the trip. It’s where learning, history, and fun came together — and with the right planning, it became one of the most memorable parts of our vacation. I hope these tips help your family enjoy it just as much as we did!

Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour

Day 2 in DC: Zoo, Georgetown, Waterfront Fun & Local Charm

On our second day in Washington, DC, we wanted something a little different—less monuments, more movement and play. So we planned a day that balanced animal encounters with some much-needed waterfront fun. If you’re visiting with young kids, especially in warmer months, this combo worked beautifully for us—and I think it will for you too.

Morning at the National Zoo

We started early at the Smithsonian National Zoo, and I can’t recommend that enough. Even though it was spring during our visit, it got surprisingly warm by late morning. Getting there close to the 8 a.m. opening helped us beat both the heat and the crowds. Bonus? It’s completely free—perfect for keeping your DC trip on budget.

This zoo is huge—163 acres in the lovely Woodley Park neighborhood—and is home to around 1,500 animals. We snagged our free timed-entry passes online the night before (don’t skip this step!). Here are a few spots we absolutely loved:

• The Great Ape House – Watching the orangutans swing through the air on the O-Line 50 feet above was surreal. I’d never seen anything like it.
• The Small Mammal House – My kids were obsessed with the fennec foxes and even the odd-looking naked mole rats.
• Elephant Trails – We caught one of the keeper talks, and it was a hit. The elephants were active and playful.

If you’re visiting in summer, I highly suggest bringing swimwear or a change of clothes for the kids. There’s a splash zone called the “Squirt Zone” near the American Trail that’s perfect for cooling off.

And while the zoo is mostly free, we did splurge on a few fun extras:

• ZooTubes Slide – $3.00
• Carousel Ride – $3.50
• National Zoo Choo Choo – $3.00
  Totally worth it for the smiles alone.

Visit The National Museum of African American History

After our morning at the National Zoo, we headed to the National Museum of African American History and Culture—and it ended up being one of the most powerful and meaningful parts of our trip.

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure how much our kids (both under 10) would connect with a museum like this, but it completely surprised us. The exhibits are incredibly well done, and there’s a special “Explore More!” gallery that’s interactive and hands-on—perfect for younger kids. Ours loved using touchscreens, puzzles, and games to learn about inventors, musicians, and changemakers.

Why I Recommend Visiting this Museum for Culture with Kids. I’ll be honest — visiting this museum was one of the most powerful parts of our trip to Washington, DC. It’s not only deeply meaningful, but also incredibly well done for families.

We started from the lower levels, where the historical journey begins. The exhibits walk you through the timeline of African American history — from slavery to the civil rights movement and beyond. It’s heavy, yes, but thoughtfully presented in a way that helps kids process big topics without feeling overwhelmed. I found myself learning right alongside them, and it sparked some great family conversations afterward.

 What the kids loved:
My boys were drawn to the music and sports sections — they loved putting on headphones to listen to gospel and hip-hop, and seeing Serena Williams’ outfits and Jackie Robinson’s story up close. There are so many real-life heroes represented in a way that inspires kids.

I also noticed how beautifully interactive everything was. Even the visuals, the videos, and the personal artifacts had them asking questions and genuinely curious. It was a learning experience, but not in a “school” way — it felt alive.

The museum does a beautiful job of telling the story of African Americans through history, culture, struggle, and celebration. From Harriet Tubman to hip-hop, it’s all here—and incredibly moving. We found that breaking it up into smaller sections helped keep it manageable and age-appropriate.

This museum stayed with us long after we left. It helped all of us — even the kids — understand just how important these stories are to American history and to our shared future.

If you can visit while you’re in DC, don’t miss it. It’s more than a museum — it’s a space for connection, reflection, and powerful conversations.

We grabbed a snack at the Sweet Home Café inside the museum—delicious, with options even our kids liked. I highly recommend reserving your (free) timed-entry tickets in advance since it’s one of the most popular museums in D.C.

By the time we left, we all needed some fresh air and downtime—so Georgetown was the perfect next stop.

Evening: Exploring Georgetown with Kids

Georgetown in the evening felt like a completely different world—historic, cozy, and full of charm. We made our way straight to Farmers Fishers Bakers, right on the waterfront. It’s such a welcoming place for families, with plenty of options for kids and a fun, lively vibe. My picky eater couldn’t get enough of their pizza, and we loved relaxing by the water.

Of course, dessert is a must in Georgetown:

• Georgetown Cupcake – Yes, the famous one from TV. Totally worth it.
• Baked & Wired – A local favorite. Their cupcakes and quirky vibes made it our top pick.
• Thomas Sweet – An old-school ice cream shop that instantly won our hearts.

We wandered along the C&O Canal, where the kids imagined life in old D.C. A canal boat ride here is short, fun, and informative—ideal for curious little minds.

As the sun began to set, we arrived at Georgetown Waterfront Park, which truly comes alive in the evening. The kids dashed straight to the interactive fountain and ran through the jets while we sat nearby and took in the view.

Highlights of the park:

• Tiered steps perfect for boat-watching and duck feeding
• A cement labyrinth the kids turned into a racetrack
• Open grassy areas ideal for unwinding with snacks
• Optional kayak/canoe rentals or a ride on the Boomerang Pirate Ship—yes, it’s as fun as it sounds, with treasure hunts and water cannons!

In winter, that playful fountain space transforms into a giant ice skating rink, so this spot is a hit year-round.

Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

Day 3 in DC: Our Capitol Hill and Eastern Market Adventure

By day three of our Washington, DC trip, we were ready for something a little more relaxed, yet full of character. Capitol Hill turned out to be exactly that—a charming mix of history, local eats, books, and the perfect places for kids to run and cool off.

Let me walk you through how we spent our day (and how you can too!).

Breakfast at Eastern Market

We kicked off the day at Eastern Market, and I have to say—this place had energy. Locals and tourists were bustling about, and the smell of fresh breakfast was irresistible.

If you only try one thing here, make it the blueberry buckwheat pancakes at Market Lunch. My kids demolished them. The line can get long, especially on weekends, so arrive early or have someone hold a spot while the rest of the crew explores.

Not in the mood to wait in line? No worries—we also loved Ted’s Bulletin, just a few blocks away, where the kids went crazy for the homemade pop tarts. And if you want something quieter, we found Tunnicliff’s Tavern, right across 7th Street, to be a hidden gem. It was mellow, reasonably priced, and had a solid breakfast menu without the weekend crowd.

Visiting the U.S. Capitol with Kids Under 10: What to Expect

If your family is up for it, you can also tour the U.S. Capitol. We booked ours through our Senator’s office a few weeks ahead of time, and it was such a unique way for the kids to connect what they’ve seen in textbooks to real life. Just a tip—no food or drinks are allowed inside, so plan accordingly if you’re bringing little ones. And don’t miss the Senate subway train—our kids thought the underground ride between buildings was like a secret adventure.s let your family wrap up their Capitol Hill adventure perfectly.

I wasn’t sure how a visit to the U.S. Capitol would go with two rambunctious kids under 10—but I’m so glad we did it. It turned out to be surprisingly engaging, educational, and way less stuffy than I imagined. Here’s what you can expect (and how to make it fun for little ones!).

How to Get In

The Capitol is free to visit, but you do need to reserve a tour ahead of time through the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center website. Walk-ins are possible, but not guaranteed—so definitely book if you’re on a schedule.

Start at the Visitor Center

The Visitor Center is clean, air-conditioned, and very kid-friendly. There are clean bathrooms, a gift shop, and a cafeteria (which saved us when we needed a snack break).

Your tour begins here with a short film called “Out of Many, One”, which gives a quick and inspiring overview of U.S. history. It’s only 13 minutes, and even my youngest sat through it wide-eyed.

The Guided Tour

From there, you’ll be taken on a 45-minute guided tour through the Capitol’s most iconic spaces:

• The Rotunda (look up! The dome art is incredible)
• The Crypt (kids love the echo in here)
• National Statuary Hall (great spot for a quick U.S. history scavenger hunt)

The guides are used to kids and often share fun facts or point out things that grab their attention. My boys loved hearing about the hidden tunnels and whispering gallery acoustics.

Stroller Tip: Strollers are allowed but must be collapsible. The tour involves a bit of walking, but not too much—our kids handled it easily.

What Kept Our Kids Engaged

• Scavenger Hunt Game: We challenged our kids to find certain statues or details (e.g., “Find the statue with wings!” or “Who can count the flags?”).
• Bring a notebook for drawing or jotting down what they learned—they loved sketching the dome afterward.
• Ask questions! The guides are so good at making the info age-appropriate.

Bonus: Gift Shop Finds

The gift shop is worth a quick browse. Ours walked out with mini Constitution booklets and Capitol keychains they proudly showed off back home.

Day 4: Visit the Library of Congress or U.S. Capitol

With full bellies and a bit of caffeine for the adults, we made our way to the Library of Congress—and wow. The Thomas Jefferson Building is a work of art. I’d highly recommend reserving free timed-entry tickets in advance online.

The kids loved the Young Readers Center (open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.), where they could get hands-on with activities inspired by the Library’s collections. We even timed our visit to peek into the Main Reading Roomduring one of the special access hours (10:30–11:30 a.m. or 2:00–3:00 p.m.).

Day 5: Our Family Visit to Mount Vernon — History That Felt Alive

During our D.C. trip, we have more time and wanted to include a stop that wasn’t just another museum or monument. We were craving something with a bit more space, nature, and hands-on learning for the boys. That’s how we found ourselves heading 40 minutes outside the city to Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home—and it turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of our trip.

As we arrived, the first thing that struck us was the view. The mansion overlooks the Potomac River, and even our kids paused to take it in. There’s something about the wide green lawns and the quiet stretch of water that immediately makes you slow down. It was peaceful in a way that many tourist spots just aren’t.

We started with the mansion tour, which was self-paced but felt anything but boring. Each room is beautifully restored, and the guides stationed throughout had the kind of fun facts that made our kids actually pay attention (and that’s saying a lot!). Our youngest was fascinated by the narrow staircase and couldn’t believe people actually lived without phones, while our older son wanted to know more about Washington’s library and the secret behind his famous dentures. Spoiler: they’re not made of wood.

After the tour, we explored the grounds, which was honestly the kids’ favorite part. There’s so much open space to walk and explore. We visited the working blacksmith shop, where real sparks were flying and tools were being shaped in front of us. Then we made our way to the gardens and slave quarters, which offered powerful opportunities to talk with the kids about America’s complicated past in a way they could understand.

There are also farm animals—which was a surprise! The boys loved seeing the sheep and oxen, and it helped paint a picture of what life might’ve been like centuries ago. We even stumbled upon a demonstration at the 16-sided barn Washington designed himself.

We stopped for lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, which had a surprisingly cozy feel and a menu that worked well for all of us (the kids devoured the chicken fingers and cornbread, while we enjoyed a quiet moment and local wine—yes, wine!). If you want to bring your own food, there are plenty of picnic areas with shade near the visitor center.

Before heading out, we spent time in the Education Center and Museum, and this part really sealed the deal for us. There’s a 4D film—yes, with real snow and smoke—that had our kids completely enthralled. We also loved the interactive exhibit called “Be Washington,” where the kids got to step into George Washington’s shoes and make decisions based on historical events. They’re still talking about it.

Mount Vernon gave us the chance to experience American history in a way that was tangible, meaningful, and even fun. It was the perfect balance of learning and play—exactly the kind of travel day we love.

If you’re planning a trip to D.C. and looking to go beyond the monuments, add Mount Vernon to your itinerary. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Day 6: Visiting the White House with Kids: What to Know Before You Go

One of the most iconic stops on our D.C. itinerary had to be the White House. It’s something our kids had seen in books, on coins, and even in cartoons — so seeing it in real life felt surreal. Okay don’t make the mistake of trying to see inside last minute!

We applied for a tour a few months in advance through our Congressional representative (you can’t just walk up and go in — tours must be requested and cleared through a formal process). The process was simple but required some patience and flexibility. Once we got our date confirmed, we made sure to bring our photo IDs and followed all the instructions in the confirmation email—security is very tight, and you can’t bring large bags or food with you.

We arrived a little early to get through the security line. The kids were curious and full of questions from the moment we stepped in. The tour itself is self-guided, but there are Secret Service agents in each room ready to answer questions—and they were surprisingly friendly and informative! Our boys loved spotting portraits of presidents they recognized and peeking into historic rooms like the East Room and the Blue Room.

We talked a lot about the history of the building, the presidents who lived there, and the decisions that have been made within those walls. It was one of those experiences where you could really feel the weight of history, even as your kids are tugging your arm asking, “Did Abraham Lincoln really live here?”

What We Recommend

• Apply early: Request your tour through your representative at least 3 months ahead of time.
• Prep your kids: Talk a bit beforehand about what they’ll see and remind them it’s more of a “look and learn” than a “touch and explore” experience.
• Dress for security: Light bags, no food, and make sure you have proper ID for adults. Kids under 18 don’t need ID.
• Bring curiosity: You won’t get access to private rooms, but you’ll walk halls where history was made — and that’s pretty incredible.

Even if you don’t get into the White House, just standing outside the gates, seeing the Secret Service and the iconic architecture, made a big impression on our family. But if you do manage to get inside? It’s an unforgettable moment that’s worth the planning.

Next, Our Adventure at the International Spy Museum

If you’ve got curious kids who love puzzles, gadgets, and stories full of secret missions—the International Spy Museum is a must. We visited on a drizzly afternoon, and it turned out to be one of our kids’ favorite stops in D.C.

From the moment you enter, it’s not just about looking — it’s about playing the role of a spy. Right at the beginning, everyone in your group gets assigned a cover identity. Our boys were thrilled to have secret agent aliases and codes to memorize, and they took their roles very seriously.

The museum is immersive and very hands-on. There’s a perfect balance of high-tech exhibits, interactive screens, and real spy artifacts—like tiny cameras hidden in pens, shoes with secret compartments, and disguises that could fool even the most alert agent. The mission-based experience takes you through a series of challenges where you test your skills in surveillance, codebreaking, and agility.

One highlight? The laser maze, where our boys tried to dodge beams like real-life spies. Another favorite was the section on spy animals—who knew pigeons had been trained to carry cameras?

While some exhibits are more suited for older kids or teens, there was plenty to keep our under-10 crowd engaged. The museum does a great job of breaking things down so even the younger ones can follow along (with help). Plus, there are lots of buttons to push, screens to tap, and things to climb or crawl through — always a win for younger explorers.

What We Recommend

• Reserve tickets in advance, especially if you’re visiting on weekends or school breaks. This place gets popular fast.
• Give yourself 2–3 hours to explore. We didn’t rush and still felt like there was more to see.
• Prep your kids: Let them know they’ll get to go on a spy mission — it builds excitement!
• Bring snacks: While there’s a café, kids get hungry quickly. Grab something small before or after.
• Rest those legs: There’s a lot of walking and standing. If you’ve got little ones, take breaks throughout the museum on benches or near interactive zones.

The Spy Museum was more than just a museum — it was a full-on adventure. If you’re looking to mix some fun, learning, and a dash of James Bond into your trip, this spot is a hit for the whole family.

Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

Best Neighborhoods for Families

We spent time researching neighborhoods that were safe, walkable, and close to the action—but also quiet enough for early bedtimes.

Where you stay sets the tone for your whole DC adventure. For us, choosing the right neighborhood and a space that worked with our family rhythms made all the difference. Whether you’re team hotel or team Airbnb, you’ve got great options—and now you can plan with a little less guesswork.Here are the standouts we considered and explored:

• Capitol Hill: This ended up being one of our favorite areas. It has that classic DC charm with row houses, tree-lined streets, and Eastern Market within walking distance. There’s a great mix of locals and families out and about, which made it feel really welcoming.
• Chevy Chase: If you want something quieter and more suburban, this is a great pick. It’s super safe, and there’s tons of green space for kids to play. It felt like a peaceful retreat after busy sightseeing days.
• Woodley Park: We loved how close this neighborhood was to the National Zoo and Rock Creek Park. If you’re doing a day at the zoo (which I highly recommend), staying nearby makes logistics so much easier with young kids.
• Georgetown: The cobblestone streets and waterfront were a big hit. Georgetown Waterfront Park was one of our favorite places to relax in the evening. It’s touristy, yes, but it has a family-friendly vibe and amazing sweets (hello, cupcakes and ice cream).
• Columbia Heights: This is a more budget-friendly option that still has parks, playgrounds, and great restaurants. We met several families staying here who loved the diversity and walkability without the higher price tag of downtown areas.

Hotels vs. Airbnb: What Worked for Our Family

We’ve done both, and honestly, it depends on your kids’ ages and your priorities. On this trip, we tried both a hotel and a short-term rental—and here’s what we learned:

• Hotels are super convenient. We stayed at the Grand Hyatt Washington, and I can’t stress enough how handy it was to have direct access to the Metro Center station from the lobby. The indoor pool was a lifesaver on rainy afternoons, and check-in was a breeze.

Washington Plaza Hotel

Canopy by Hilton Washington DC Embassy Row

Grand Hyatt Washington

Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Convention Center

• Airbnbs, though, gave us space to breathe. If your kids have different bedtimes or you’re just not into tiptoeing around after 8 p.m., you’ll appreciate having separate bedrooms. Our Airbnb had a small kitchen, which made breakfasts and bedtime routines so much smoother.

In the past, we’ve also stayed at Embassy Suites, which we loved for that in-between feel—bigger rooms with a kitchenette, plus hotel amenities like breakfast and cleaning.

Why Proximity Matters

If you’re traveling with kids, trust me on this: staying near a Metro station is a must. We learned that DC’s Metro stations are more spread out than in some cities, so planning ahead really helps.

Being near the National Mall is super convenient if you plan to visit multiple Smithsonian museums or monuments in one day (which you likely will!). Walking distance can mean everything when little feet get tired.

The Washington Marriott at Metro Center was another place we considered—it’s steps from the Metro and walkable to so many attractions, which helps you cut down on time in transit.

One more tip: Don’t overlook Northern Virginia. Places like Arlington or Crystal City are often just one or two Metro stops from downtown DC, and the hotels tend to be a bit more affordable while still being super family-friendly.

Getting Around DC with Kids: What Worked for Us

One of the things that made our trip to Washington, DC with our kids so much easier was how surprisingly family-friendly the city’s transportation system is. We didn’t rent a car—and we didn’t need one. Between the Metro, walkable neighborhoods, and some clever planning, we saw a ton without the usual “Are we there yet?” meltdowns.

Here’s how we got around—and what I’d recommend if you’re doing DC with little ones.

Metro with Strollers: So Much Easier Than I Expected

We used the Metro every single day. And honestly? It was a lifesaver. I’d been worried about juggling strollers on crowded trains, but DC’s Metro system now lets you keep strollers open, which felt like a small miracle.

Here’s what helped us:

• Use elevators (sometimes you have to hunt for them, and they occasionally drop you off on the opposite track—just double-check signs before boarding).
• Avoid rush hours: Trains are packed between 7–9 a.m. and 4–6:30 p.m., so we planned around those.
• Children under 4 ride free with a paying adult—nice little bonus.
• Priority seating is available if you lock the stroller brakes and don’t block the aisle. Just know seniors and people with disabilities get first dibs.

I also kept Metro cards loaded and easily accessible in my bag so we weren’t fumbling at the gates. If you’re new to Metro, their app makes route planning easy, and most stations have clear signage.

Walking, Resting, and Rideshare Realitie

DC is incredibly walkable. Most major sites are connected by wide sidewalks and stroller-friendly paths. But even the best walkers (and their grown-ups!) get tired after hours on the Mall.

When our kids hit their limit, we used Uber or Lyft to get back to the hotel or out to lunch spots. One heads-up: DC law requires proper car seats for kids under 8. Uber does offer a “Car Seat” option that includes a forward-facing seat for an extra charge, but it’s not always available right away.

I packed our RideSafer Travel Vest in our day bag—it’s compact and worked really well for quick rides. I’ve also heard great things about the BubbleBum inflatable booster for older kids.

Bikes for Big (and Little) Explorers

One afternoon, we tried something new and rented bikes—and I’m so glad we did! Biking around the National Mall was one of the most fun parts of our trip.

We used Unlimited Biking, which has kid-sized bikes and attachments. Helmets, locks, and maps are all included, and they had trailers and tag-alongs for younger kids.

If you want something unique, check out Bunch Bikes. They’re like little electric cargo trikes and are perfect for families with toddlers or even babies. I saw a mom cruising by with two kids and a dog in one—and now I kind of want one.

Older kids (think 10+) can use Capital Bikeshare, which has stations all over and gives you the first 30 minutes free. Just make sure your kids are confident riders, especially on busy streets.

A Few Things That Made Our Trip Easier

• Timed-entry tickets: We booked them in advance whenever possible. It helped us avoid long lines and kept our days more structured.
• Snacks and water: Always, always pack these! Especially if you’re visiting the Mall, where food options are limited.
• Breaks built in: After a museum or monument, we’d stop at a playground or park. The Georgetown Waterfront, Yards Park, and even the National Zoo had great spots to let the kids recharge.

Final Thoughts: DC Is Built for Curious Kids

What surprised me most about DC was how easy it was to mix learning with fun. We saw our boys light up at the Air and Space Museum, race through splash pads at Yards Park, and laugh out loud on the Metro’s underground trains.

You really don’t have to pack everything into one trip—DC has so much to offer, and it’s the kind of place that keeps giving. Whether you go in spring for cherry blossoms or winter for ice skating at the Georgetown fountain, there’s always something special waiting.

We came home with tired feet, full hearts, and a long list of things we still want to do next time.

You may be interested in reading:

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