Washington, DC is chock-full of history and culture—but what’s there to do as a family with littles? Good news: there are tons of family-friendly options, you could spend an entire week or more exploring! Whether you have toddlers, school-aged children, teenagers, or some combination, there is no shortage of activities in all parts of town. This guide breaks down the top things to do in DC with kids by age group. Let's dive in!
Things to do in DC with younger kids
Smithsonian National Zoo
The National Zoo is a top destination for families with young kids—and truth be told, it features something interesting for people of all ages. The National Zoo is home to over 2,200 animals, including pandas, lions, and elephants. Another reason to visit? It’s consistently ranked one of the top Zoos in the United States. At the Kids' Farm area, children can get up close with cows, alpacas, hogs, donkeys, goats, chickens and fish. A must for animal-obsessed little ones! Not to mention, the Zoo is always free to visit.
Cost: Free admission, but parking is $30
Stroller Accessible: Yes, strollers are available for rent
Route Length: The zoo recommends setting aside 2-3 hours for a full tour
Food: Various food options available.
Other Info: Requires free entry passes, which should be reserved online
Address: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
National Children’s Museum
This interactive museum was designed specifically for kids up to age 12. A full or half-day experience, the National Children’s Museum blends science, technology, engineering, arts, and math into playful exhibits perfect for young minds. This indoor museum is perfect for seeking refuge on hot summer days or cool, snowy ones. Tickets are required for admission, and children under 1 are free! It's like a playground for little Einsteins!
Cost: $18.95 for children over 1 year old and adults
Stroller Accessible: Yes
Food: Café available
Other Info: Sensory backpacks and wheelchairs available to borrow
Address: 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
A hidden gem in DC, this national park offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful water lilies and lotus flowers. Make it a true nature adventure for kids as they explore the gardens, and ask them to look for turtles, frogs, and beavers—all animals that call this sanctuary home. There are several historic ponds and trails to enjoy, including a half-mile paved loop and a quarter-mile dirt path for more adventurous explorers. With countless birding opportunities, Kenilworth Park is a nature lover's paradise right in the city. This activity is truly refreshing for kids of all ages—and is totally free for everyone to visit. Of course, a day spent outside is sure to tire the kids out in the best way. Did somebody say naptime?
Cost: Free
Stroller Accessible: Yes, on most trails
Route Length: Ranging from 1/3 mile to 1/2 mile, going in a loop
Food: No food facilities; visitors are encouraged to bring their own.
Address: 1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019
The Capital Wheel
Yards Park
A family-friendly park with a beautiful waterfront, Yards Park features an interactive fountain and wading pool, perfect for younger kids to cool off in the summer. The park also has plenty of open space for picnics and play. Don't forget the sunscreen!
Cost: Free
Stroller Accessible: Yes
Food: No food or drink permitted near the water feature area
Other Info: Water features are closed Monday-Wednesday
Address: 355 Water St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Things to do in DC with older kids
International Spy Museum
If your kids are into intrigue and espionage, the International Spy Museum is a must-visit. This museum is packed with interactive exhibits that let kids dive into the world of spies (Bond, James Bond!). They can test their skills with activities like crawling through an air duct or creating a secret identity. It’s educational, thrilling, and perfect for any budding spy. Bonus: children 6 and under get in for free!
Cost: Around $32 for adults (13-64), Around $20 for youth (7-12), free for children under 6. Around $28 for seniors (65+) - Ticket costs vary; Save up to 30% by booking in advance.
Stroller Accessible: Stollers must fit within dimensions listed on their website. Storage available for larget strollers.
Food: Drinks and treats available in the Spy Museum Store and nearby food options available
Address: 700 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024
National Air and Space Museum
For those fascinated by the world of aviation and space exploration, the National Air and Space Museum will be a huge hit! With a collection that includes the Wright brothers' plane, Apollo 11 command module, and interactive flight simulators, your kids will be inspired and thrilled during the whole visit. Entry is free for everyone but make sure to reserve your time slot on their website first!
Cost: Free
Stroller Accessible: Yes
Food: Café available
Other Info: Advance timed-entry passes required
Address: 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560
Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is an ideal spot to burn off some extra energy and enjoy nature. You and your kiddos can explore miles of hiking trails, go horseback riding, or visit the nature center, which offers planetarium shows and educational programs. Check out their calendar of events for activities like Books and Beyond with a Ranger, Stellar Star Show, and more. It’s a natural adventure right in the city, perfect for a day of outdoor fun.
Cost: Free with metered parking at $2.30/hr for 3 hours max
Stroller Accessible: Varies by trail
Route Length: Numerous trails of varying lengths
Address: 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015
Escape Room Live DC
Challenge the whole crew with a visit to Escape Room Live DC. They offer themed rooms where teams must solve puzzles to escape within a set time. It’s a fun and interactive way to develop problem-solving skills and teamwork, and it’s great for a group of friends or family members. Family night out or birthday ideas, anyone?
Cost: $36.99 per person $10 off per player before 11 am
Stroller Accessible: No
Other Info: Best suited for older children and teenagers due to complexity
Address: 723 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
If your kid(s) have realized their inner history buff, The National Museum of American History is the perfect spot to check out! They can see the original Star-Spangled Banner, explore the history of transportation, or check out the interactive exhibits in the Innovation Wing. It’s an opportunity to learn about America’s past in a dynamic and hands-on way and admission is completely free.
Cost: Free
Stroller Accessible: Yes
Food: Café available
Address: 1300 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560
You’re ready to explore our nation’s capital!
Washington, DC, offers a plethora of activities that cater to kids of all ages. Whether your family enjoys museums, outdoor adventures, or interactive experiences, DC has something for everyone. Next time you're planning a family outing in the nation's capital, consider these top destinations and create some lifelong memories for your family.
Looking for something to do in DC without the kiddos?
Check out our list of date night ideas. And if you need a sitter, SitterTree has local, background-checked sitters available on-demand in DC. You can get $20 off your first sitter at the link below.