30 Best Washington D.C. Kids Things to Do

I’ve condensed the past 10 years of experience as a mom in the DC area down to this list of 30 best of the best things to do in Washington D.C. with kids. DC is a fantastic city for kids and families and you'll find tips for the top Smithsonians, memorials, playgrounds, parks and hidden gems below.

Best Smithsonians for Kids (5)
Best Memorials/Historic Buildings (5)
Best DC Experiences (5)
Top 5 Playgrounds (5)
Hidden Gems (7)
Best Family DC Parks (3)
Map of Things to Do
More DC Guides
1. 25 Kid-Friendly Restaurants
2. Ultimate Family Trip Guide to DC (3, 4 and 5-Day Itineraries)
3. Database of 500+ Kid-Friendly Attractions (Sort by free/paid, indoor/outdoor)

The 5 Best Smithsonians for Washington D.C. Kids

Tips for navigating each Smithsonian below:

Air and Space
National Zoo
Natural History
American History
Postal Museum

I also wrote about the best museums for each age group (babies/toddlers, elementary and teens) in this Ultimate DC Family Trip Guide.

Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington DC with Kids

Air-and-Space-Museums-for-Children-in-DC

The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in DC is not just an attraction but an adventure, holding the prestigious title of the most visited museum worldwide. It draws enthusiasts and the simply curious with its unparalleled collection of aircraft and spacecraft. Despite its popularity, the museum can be navigated smoothly with a bit of insider knowledge. In my latest blog post, discover three insider tips and a local mom's guide to making the most of your visit, ensuring an enriching experience for the whole family without the overwhelm.

National Zoo with Kids in D.C.

A must-visit free kids' attraction in Washington DC, the National Zoo holds a special place in my family's heart. Whether we bike, take the metro, or drive, each visit is a new adventure. While the giant pandas may have left, the zoo's commitment to animal care, conservation, and research shines through its diverse array of species, including the adorable Red Pandas. Dive into my comprehensive 7-page PDF guide, now available as a free blog post, for the best visiting tips, restaurant options, and must-see exhibits, making your visit memorable and hassle-free.

The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. Kids

A gateway to the wonders of the natural world, the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History captivates children and adults alike with its vast collection of natural wonders. From the sparkling allure of the Hope Diamond to the towering presence of dinosaur skeletons, this museum is a treasure trove of discovery. It features a fantastic kids' section, complete with interactive drawers and knowledgeable volunteers ready to engage young minds. For a visit that's as educational as it is enjoyable, check out my blog post for tips from a local mom, including highlights like the Live Butterfly Pavilion, Live Tarantula Feedings, and the Q?rius Laboratory.

Smithsonian's National Museum of American History - Can't Miss with Kids

For a family trip that combines fun with education, the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History is unparalleled. With exhibits appealing to all ages, including play areas like a recreation of Julia Child's Kitchen, a Wegman's shopping area for younger kids, and an Inventors space for elementary-aged children, it's a treasure trove of American culture and innovation. Don't miss iconic artifacts like the Star-Spangled Banner and Dorothy's ruby slippers. For a curated list of kid favorites, check out my blog post detailing three top picks for a family-friendly visit.

The National Postal Museum - Best Museum for Little Kids in DC

A hidden gem in DC, the National Postal Museum is a favorite for our family, offering interactive exhibits that go beyond stamps to explore the fascinating world of mail transportation and logistics. Kids can climb aboard trucks, trains, and even a stagecoach, making learning fun and hands-on. Located conveniently near Union Station, it offers easy access and dining options, making for a perfect family outing. For an in-depth guide, including how to kickstart your stamp collection, check out my condensed 7-page PDF guide available for free on my blog.

The 5 Best Memorials/Landmarks in Washington D.C. with Kids

Tips for navigating each memorial below:

Washington Monument
Lincoln Memorial
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
Jefferson Memorial
Library of Congress

Washington Monument in DC on a Family Trip

The iconic Washington Monument is a must-visit, and securing a ticket to the top can be surprisingly affordable. Check out my post for insider tips on how to snag those elusive $1 tickets! This little investment offers an unforgettable experience, giving you a bird's-eye view of the city from one of its most famous landmarks.

Lincoln Memorial

A visit to the Lincoln Memorial is not just about paying homage to one of America's greatest presidents; it's also an opportunity to enjoy some of the best views in the city. A little-known tip is to visit the Gifts and Café shop located at Henry Bacon Drive NW. Not only can you pick up unique souvenirs, but the café also offers great views that provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing break during your exploration of the National Mall.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

While exploring the profound and inspiring Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, don't miss a practical tip: there are excellent restroom facilities located behind the Gift Shop. This convenience allows you to comfortably spend more time reflecting on the legacy of Dr. King and the civil rights movement.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial offers a serene and picturesque setting to admire one of the founding fathers. A special tip for visitors: upon entering the Rotunda, head to the left of the statue. This spot offers an incredible view of the Washington Monument over the Tidal Basin, providing a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to take in the beauty of one of D.C.'s most scenic vistas.

Library of Congress with Kids in DC

The Library of Congress is not only a haven for bibliophiles but also a breathtaking architectural masterpiece that is incredibly family-friendly. It stands as a monument to learning and exploration, making it a must-visit with kids. The interior is arguably the most beautiful of any building in Washington, D.C., showcasing exquisite design and artistry.

For families, the Library offers a small but enchanting children's library filled with interactive sections that I highly recommend for children up to age 12. Dive into my blog post to discover a local mom's tips on making the most of this cultural gem with your little ones, ensuring an educational and enjoyable visit for the entire family.

The 5 Best Kid-Friendly Washington D.C. Experiences

Tips for each experience below:

Kennedy Center - Free shows most nights at Millennium Stage
Gravelly Point Picnic - Plane Watching
NGA Sculpture Garden - Ice Skating in Winter, Fountain in Summer
Eastern Market- Daily Indoor Market, Tuesday and Saturday and Sunday Outdoor Markets
Tie! Hirshhorn or National Gallery of Art - Kids Programs and Cafes at both are Great!

Kennedy Center Can't Miss Thing to Do with Kids in D.C.

The Kennedy Center is the premier performing arts venue offering a wide range of performances, including often daily free shows on the Millennium Stage. The REACH at the Kennedy Center is a cutting-edge, immersive arts and learning center that offers a wide range of interactive and experiential activities, performances, and workshops, designed to engage visitors of all ages in the creative process and expand the Center's cultural impact. Lots of cool kid-friendly activities throughout the year and beautiful lawn space often with festivals and fun family events.

Address: 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC

Parking: There is a parking garage on-site which is kind of expensive but a great other option listed in my blog posts above.

Gravelly Point Park

A picturesque spot located just north of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, at Gravelly Point is a favorite for families and aviation enthusiasts to watch planes take off and land. This park offers a unique experience for plane watching with your kids, providing an up-close view of airplanes as they soar overhead, making for an exciting and educational outing. Bring a ball or a picnic and have some fun with beautiful views of the Potomac and DC. Full review here.

Address: George Washington Pkwy, Arlington, VA,

Restrooms: Portable restrooms are available

Parking: Huge free parking lot on-site, though it can get crowded during peak times.

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

social distancing activities dc sculpture

The Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art transforms seasonally, featuring a popular ice skating rink in the winter and a refreshing fountain to enjoy during the summer, while the Pavilion Café pictured above offers a delightful setting for visitors all year round amidst the garden's impressive sculptures.

Address: Constitution Ave NW & 7th Street, Washington, D.C. 20408.

Full Review: Here.

Eastern Market

A bustling marketplace known for its fresh produce, handmade crafts, and vibrant atmosphere, located at 225 7th St SE, Washington, DC. Restrooms are available for visitors inside the market, and street parking is available in the surrounding area, though it can be competitive on market days.

Market Days: Daily Indoor Market, Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays the big Outdoor Markets.

Cost: free!

Full Review here.

Have to make this a tie! Kids activities at Hirshhorn and NGA are so great!

Hirshhorn Museum

This museum, dedicated to contemporary art and culture, features a unique circular architecture and is located at Independence Ave SW & 7th St SW, Washington, DC. Visitor restrooms are available inside, and while there's no dedicated parking, several public parking garages are nearby, along with limited street parking.

Address: Independence Ave SW & 7th St SW,

Cost: free!

Full Review of our visits to the Hirshhorn with Kids here.

National Gallery of Art

A world-class art museum offering an extensive collection spanning several centuries, located at Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC. Restrooms are available for visitors throughout the museum, and while the museum does not have its own parking garage, there are multiple public parking options in the vicinity, including paid garages and limited street parking.

Address: National Mall between 3rd and 9th Streets along Constitution Avenue NW

Cost: Free!

Full Review of our visits to the National Gallery of Art with parking tips here.

5 Best Playgrounds for Families in Washington D.C.

Tips for each playground below:

Guy Mason Community Center – Glover Park, Northwest
Turkey Thicket Recreation Center – Brookland, Northeast
The Fields Playground at RFK Stadium – Northeast
Eastern Market Playground - Southeast
Beauvoir Playground (Private school so only open on non-school days)

And if you want 10 more, check out my full list of 15 Best DC Playgrounds!

Guy Mason Community Center – Glover Park, Northwest Playground in DC

A spacious playground with diverse equipment and plenty of green space for families to enjoy.
Address: 3600 Calvert St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Parking: Street parking available.
Restrooms: Restroom facilities available inside the community center.

Turkey Thicket Recreation Center – Brookland, Northeast DC with Kids

Features modern play structures, sports fields, and a walking track in a community-focused setting.

Address: 1100 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20017
Parking: On-site parking lot available which is great!
Restrooms: Restroom facilities available inside the community center.

The Fields Playground at RFK Stadium – Northeast Washington, D.C.

A large, sports-themed playground with plenty of play equipment and open space for kids to run and play.

Address: 2400 East Capitol St NE, Washington, DC 20003
Parking: Tons of parking nearby, like a stadium full!
Restrooms: Pretty nice permanent restrooms right next to the playground.

Eastern Market Playground - Southeast

Nestled in the heart of the historic Eastern Market area, this playground offers fun equipment in a vibrant community setting.

Address: 225 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Parking: Street parking available but we have also parked in the Trader Joe’s underground parking garage too.
Restrooms: Restrooms available in the nearby Eastern Market.

7 Best Hidden Gems for Families in Washington D.C.

Note: None of these are hidden gems to locals but they are not on the top lists for tourists and so wanted to share here! Tips for each hidden gem below:

Planet Word - Free in Northwest
DC Alley Museum - Free in Northwest
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens - Free in Northeast
Congressional Cemetery - Free in Northeast
National Building Museum - Atrium is free but exhibits and kids area is paid
The Wharf Area and Swings - Free in Southwest
Kingman and Heritage Islands - Free in Northeast DC

And if you want 10 more, check out my full list of 15 Best DC Playgrounds!

Planet Word - Coolest DC Museum off the National Mall

Planet Word is my kids’ current favorite museum in DC! It’s an interactive museum dedicated to the power, beauty, and fun of language. Read more about tickets and the fun exhibits (karaoke and photo booth, anyone?!) in my full Planet Word review.

Address: 925 13th St NW, Washington, DC.

Restrooms are available for visitors

Cost: Free!

Parking: I ran late so went ahead and parked at the closest parking garage next to the museum at 1225 I St NW (but entrance on 13th between Devon and Blakley and the Museum) No attendant so you just pay online. $10 for first hour $20 for 2 or more hours. ⁣

DC Alley Museum

If you have a selfie lover, check out the DC Alley Museum! A unique outdoor gallery showcasing vibrant street art and murals in Blagden Alley. Great coffee shop there too. More pictures from our visit here.

Address: 926 N St NW Rear, Washington, DC.

Cost: Free!

Restrooms: No specific restroom facilities are available in the alley but we used Compass Coffee.

Parking is street parking in the surrounding area.

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

This National Park is famous for its beautiful water lilies and lotus flowers. My kids had a great time with friends on the little paths. More from our visit to Kenilworth Gardens here.

Address: 1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC.

Cost: Free!

Restrooms are available on-site

Parking: Free parking lot for visitors.

Congressional Cemetery

I’m sure its odd to have a cemetery on the list but hear me out! This cemetery has been vote the “hippest” in the country and is an historic and active burial ground hosting notable figures. It is also a stunning location to see the cherry blossom trees! It also has some great Geocaching. More in my full review here.

Address: 1801 E St SE, Washington, DC.

Restrooms are available for visitors

Cost: Free!

Parking: I’ve always found street parking off E Street.

National Building Museum - great for Kids in DC who Love Engineering!

Located in Chinatown, this museum celebrates architecture, design, and engineering. It has a stunning atrium which is free to visit. It also has a great children’s learning area which costs a small fee per child.

Address: 401 F St NW, Washington, DC.

Cost: The National Building Museum charges an admission fee of $10 for general adult visitors and $7 for youth (ages 3-17), students with IDs, and seniors (ages 60+)

Restrooms: Visitor restrooms are available

Parking: There is no dedicated museum parking, several public parking garages are available in the vicinity.

The Wharf and Swings

The Wharf in Washington, D.C., is a vibrant, revitalized waterfront district that has quickly become one of the city's coolest hangout spots for families. Stretching along the Potomac River, The Wharf is packed with a variety of attractions and activities that cater to all ages, making it an ideal destination for family outings.

My kids love the Swings overlooking the Potomac River and running/scooting down the little hills. We brought cardboard once and they kids went fast! (be warned!) More about the Wharf here.

Address: 1100 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC.

Cost: Free!

Restrooms: Located near the Water Taxi stand about halfway down as well as near the main parking garage.

Parking: Paid parking is available in garages under the buildings.

Kingman and Heritage Islands

Did you know DC has 2 islands?! These are beautiful, serene protected natural areas perfect for outdoor activities and exploring. More about our outing to Kingman and Heritage Islands here. Great to pair with a trip to the nearby Fields Playground mentioned above!

Address: Located at the entrance near RFK Stadium Lot 6, 575 Oklahoma Ave NE, Washington, DC.

Restrooms: Portable restrooms are usually available on the islands and permanent ones by the Playground.

Cost: Free!

Parking: Free parking is available in Lot 6 by the entrance.

3 Best Parks in Washington, D.C. for Families

Rock Creek Park
National Botanic Garden Indoor and Outdoor
Lincoln Park (and Wine & Butter Cafe)

Rock Creek Park - One of the Largest Urban Park in US

Rock Creek Park is a sprawling urban oasis that spans over 2,000 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. It offers families and outdoor enthusiasts a peaceful retreat with its network of trails suitable for all ages.

Among these, kid-friendly trails like the Nature Center Loop, the Peirce Mill trail, and the Western Ridge Trail stand out for their gentle slopes, shaded paths, and scenic beauty, perfect for little explorers.

With additional amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and the educational exhibits at the Nature Center, Rock Creek Park serves as an ideal spot for a family day out, where adventure and discovery await amidst the natural beauty.

More about Rock Creek Park as a Family here.

National Botanic Garden Indoor and Outdoor Oasis in DC

The United States Botanic Garden is on our family favorites list for sure! Indoors, the conservatory provides an immersive journey through different climates and ecosystems, allowing children to see and learn about a wide variety of plants from rainforests, deserts, and more, in a controlled environment that makes exploration comfortable year-round.

The outdoor gardens, including the Children's Garden, offer hands-on activities where kids can dig, water plants, and learn about gardening and the importance of plants in our world. The garden's seasonal displays of trains and botanical sculptures are so fun to see.

With its central location on the National Mall at 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, D.C., ample restroom facilities, and accessibility by public transportation, the U.S. Botanic Garden is a convenient and delightful destination for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy a day of fun and learning.

More about the National Botanic Garden with Kids here.

Lincoln Park and Wine & Butter Cafe & Market

If you want to experience a real DC neighborhood feel, check out Lincoln Park, located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood at East Capitol and 11th Streets, Washington, D.C. As the largest Capitol Hill park, it serves as a communal gathering spot featuring two significant statues, including the Emancipation Memorial, and provides lots of space for picnics, play, and leisurely strolls under its mature trees. It's a perfect spot for children to run and play, with 2 playgrounds and lots of green space.

Just a short walk from Lincoln Park, the Wine & Butter café is a charming spot known for its cozy atmosphere, delicious coffee, and selection of pastries and light bites. It's a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a warm welcome and a delightful pause in your day.