washington dc with kids

A summer vacation in Washington DC is ideal for school aged kids, but there is something for every age group here. After a visit to our nation’s capital and its monuments, history class makes so much more sense.

DC is a great walking city full of parks and green space. Most of the attractions appeal to all ages. Here are a few to check out if you have a preschooler in your group.

National Zoo
This zoo, located in the Rock Creek National Park, is home to over 400 species of animals. Admission, as with all Smithsonian museums, is free.
Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum
Planes, spaceships, and story times. Get your own dog-tags, then grab some lunch.
National Museum of Natural History
From Dinosaurs to the Hope Diamond. “Dedicated to the natural world and our place in it” is their motto.
Mount Vernon
A visit to the home of George Washington is a great day trip. During seasonal events, witness a recreation of 18th century life.
Washington Monument
Take the elevator up the 550 foot monument for a bird’s eye view of the National Mall.
Discovery Theater
Live shows for kids. Puppet shows, musicians, dancers, and more connect kids with cultures throughout history.
Insider tips:
Skip the National Aquarium. It’s mainly a series of home-sized aquarium tanks, very disappointing.
If you have a young foodie, check out the food court offerings in the American Indian Museum.

I know you’ll discover more things as you stroll through the parks on the National Mall. Watching ducks on the pond, have a picnic lunch…

Click here for Virginia Area Tips

Speaking of lunch, here’s a few of our favorite kid-friendly restaurants in the DC area:
Union Station Great variety of inexpensive meals from food court to full-service restaurants.
Old Glory BBQ In Georgetown. Great for a family friendly lunch or dinner.
Old Ebbitt Grill For breakfast downtown near the White House. Good history and atmosphere. At night it’s mostly a bar.
Legal Sea Foods Downtown DC. Has won awards for its kid’s menu.
ESPN Zone Downtown DC. Fun for the sports fans.

A few kid-friendly hotels in Washington DC to check out:
Embassy Suites Hotel Downtown
Courtyard Marriott Downtown
Hotel Monoco: luxury hotel downtown
Hilton Washington: luxury hotel downtown with a resort feel

 For animal loving youngsters, The Fairmont Washington, D.C. invites families to discover the giant Pandas at the National Zoo, while simultaneously helping to ensure the safety of these furry creatures in the wild.  Each time the Panda Package is booked, the hotel will make a $10 donation to the Friends of the National Zoo’s Giant Panda Conservation Fund, which supports conservation initiatives in the U.S. and China.  Package includes nightly accommodation for two adults and two children, a Zoo welcome kit including discount coupons, stuffed Panda, Zoo map, Giant Panda fact sheet, kid’s activity booklet, Panda post card and disposable camera.  Available throughout the summer, package rates start from $199 per night.
Check Top Hotel Deals in Washington D.C.

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