10 Fun Things to Do With Kids in Washington DC

Washington DC is one of the most visited cities in the world. It’s packed with exciting attractions, cultural activities, and engaging sights for all ages, including kids. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or you’re a local looking for something fun to do with the family, here are 10 of the best activities in the nation’s capital.

1. Visit the National Zoo

The National Zoo is a must-see destination for any family visiting Washington DC. It’s home to more than 2,000 animals of 400 different species, from the giant pandas to the red pandas, lions, tigers, and more. Kids will love watching the animals and learning about them through the interactive exhibits. The National Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and activities such as animal talks and kids’ camps.

The Zoo is open every day of the year, and admission is free. If you’re visiting with a large family group, you can get discounted tickets and group tours.

2. Explore the National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum is one of the most visited museums in the world, and it’s a must-see attraction for kids in Washington DC. Kids can explore the museum’s seven floors of exhibits, which range from the Wright brothers’ first powered aircraft to the Apollo 11 mission and more. The museum also offers interactive exhibits, such as a flight simulator, and a planetarium.

The museum is open every day of the year, and admission is free. Kids can also participate in the museum’s educational programs, such as the Junior Astronaut Program and the Flight Academy.

3. Discover the National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art is a great place for kids to explore the world of art. It’s home to more than a million works of art, from ancient to contemporary, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more. Kids can explore the collection on their own or take part in one of the many educational programs offered, such as art classes, tours, and workshops.

The gallery is open every day of the year, and admission is free. Special discounts are available for large groups.

4. Visit the U.S. Capitol

The U.S. Capitol is one of the most iconic structures in the nation’s capital, and it’s a great place for kids to learn about the history of the United States. Kids can take a guided tour of the building and explore the chambers of Congress, the Supreme Court, and the Library of Congress. They can also take part in the Capitol’s educational programs, such as the Capitol Kids program.

The Capitol is open every day of the year, and admission is free.

5. Explore the Smithsonian Museums

Washington DC is home to 19 Smithsonian Museums, and it’s a great place for kids to explore the world of science, art, and culture. The museums range from the National Museum of Natural History to the National Air and Space Museum to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Kids can explore the museums on their own or take part in one of the many educational programs, such as educational workshops and tours.

The museums are open every day of the year, and admission is free.

6. Take a Boat Ride on the Potomac River

Take a relaxing boat ride on the Potomac River and explore the sights along the river. Kids can learn about the history of the area, spot wildlife, and take in the stunning views of the city skyline. The boat rides are available daily from April to October, and there are several different types of boats to choose from, such as kayaks, canoes, and motorboats.

The boat rides are available for a fee, and discounts are available for large groups.

7. Visit the National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History is a great place for kids to explore the history of the United States. Kids can explore the museum’s exhibits, which range from the American Revolution to the Civil Rights Movement to the moon landing and more. The museum also offers interactive exhibits, such as a virtual reality experience, and a variety of educational programs, such as workshops and tours.

The museum is open every day of the year, and admission is free.

8. Explore the National Mall

The National Mall is a great place for kids to explore the nation’s capital. Kids can explore the many monuments and memorials, such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. They can also take part in the many educational programs offered, such as guided tours and interactive exhibits.

The National Mall is open every day of the year, and admission is free.

9. Visit the International Spy Museum

The International Spy Museum is a great place for kids to explore the world of espionage. Kids can explore the museum’s exhibits, which range from the history of spycraft to the Cold War and more. The museum also offers interactive exhibits, such as a virtual reality experience, and a variety of educational programs, such as workshops and tours.

The museum is open every day of the year, and admission is free.

10. Take a Tour of the White House

Take a guided tour of the White House and explore the historic home of the U.S. President. Kids can learn about the history of the building, the Presidents who have lived there, and the many famous visitors who have called the White House home. The tours are available every day from April to October, and reservations must be made in advance.

The tours are free, and discounts are available for large groups.

Washington DC is packed with fun activities for kids of all ages. From the National Zoo to the National Air and Space Museum to the White House, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or you’re a local looking for something fun to do with the family, these 10 activities are sure to make your trip to the nation’s capital a memorable one.