Kid-Friendly Activities in DC

The Library of Congress is not only the nation's oldest federal cultural institution that serves as the main research resource of Congress, but it is also the largest library in the world. It has over a million books of photographs, maps, and manuscripts in its archives. Fun and enjoyable for the whole family, the Library of Congress offers an array of guided tours, interactive exhibitions, and kiosks to explore.

Enjoy a free guided walking tour of the beautiful building in which the library is housed and learn all about its architecture, art, and history, as well as the work and history of the Library of Congress. The Young Readers Center was designed specifically for young people who love books, and it offers readings groups and story times.

The Library of Congress , 101 Independence Ave, SE, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-707-5000

The National Children's Museum is located in downtown Washington, D.C. near the famous National Mall. The museum moved to a brand-new building in late 2019 and expanded the space for many exhibits, and hands-on learning experiences help kids learn sciences, technology, engineering, arts, and math in a fun way. he museum has a modern/futuristic design, and their goal is to provide useful information and to spark creativity within kids for generations to come. The museum is large, and takes at least half a day to explore everything.

National Children's Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004, Phone: (202) 844-2486

Making up part of the famous Smithsonian Institution, which includes 18 museums and galleries and the National Zoo, The National Zoological Park is the world's largest museum and research complex, and it always promises a fantastic day out for the whole family.

Located in Rock Creek Park in the heart of Washington, the zoo covers covers over 160 acres of land and consists of various habitats for more than 2,000 animals, including the well known resident giant pandas, Bao Bao, Tian Tian, and Mei Xiang. The zoo is also home to golden lion tamarins, sloth bears, and Asian elephants, as well as marine animals, reptiles, and amphibians.

The zoo also houses a research, conservation, and education center for endangered species such as the red panda and the river turtle, and it offers an array of educational classes, camps, and programs for children of all ages.

The National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-633-3038

For History Buffs

Home to the world's largest collection of aviation and space artifacts, The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum is a world-renowned institution that provides information encompassing all aspects of human flight. The museum is located in two historic buildings that house a vast collection of items and artifacts relating to the space and aviation industry. It features a range of exhibitions on aviation, planetary science, and space exploration.

The museum is located in the heart of the Smithsonian complex in Washington, DC, and boasts some of the world’s most awe-inspiring icons of flight. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, on the other hand, is situated near the Washington Dulles International Airport and showcases a variety of aircraft and spacecraft, as well as collections of aviation and space artifacts in vast hangars.

Both museums present a variety of educational programs, activities, and performances that reflect the American spirit and enthusiasm for the science and technology of flight.

The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, Independence Ave, 6th St. NW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-633-2214

Home to one of America’s most influential founding fathers, The Thomas Jefferson Memorial stands as a symbol of liberty, reflection, and inspiration for visitors from around the world. Known as the founding father of America, Thomas Jefferson served as the first Secretary of State for the United States of America. Designed by architect John Russell Pope in a Classic Revival style, the memorial stands directly in line with The White House.

Spectacular cherry blossom trees and a reflective Tidal Basin with dark, tranquil waters surround the memorial. It is open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, and National Park Service Rangers are on hand to provide interpretive programs at certain times of the day and to answer questions.

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, 900 Ohio Drive, SW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-426-6841

Dedicated to inspiring curiosity, discovery, and exploration of the natural world through a world-class range of collections, exhibitions, and educational outreach programs, The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is one of the world’s preeminent museums and one of the top DC attractions.

Located on the National Mall and administered by the Smithsonian Institute, the Museum has an impressive collection of over 126 million specimens, ranging from animals, plants, rocks, and minerals to fossils, meteorites, and cultural artifacts, all of which are displayed in over 350,000 square feet of exhibition space. The museum’s new Q?rius is a first-of-its-kind interactive and experimental environment in which visitors can connect science with everyday life through hands-on activities, adventures, and experiments - a must for the kids.

The National Museum of Natural History, 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC, Phone: 202-633-1000

When you’re traveling with kids (and even when you’re not), the International Spy Museum in Washington DC is undeniably one of the coolest attractions to visit. This one-of-a-kind museum is housed in a 140,000-square-foot glass and steel building and features quirky, as well as cheeky, exhibits. Visitors will begin by receiving a unique spy identity and even their own undercover mission before heading into the museum to check out various exhibits. See a collection of spy tools, learn about the history of spies, and even visit a hands-on exhibit where you can try breaking codes and deciphering spy messages. Not to be missed is a collection of seemingly everyday items with deadly hidden features.

International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza, SW Washington DC 20024, Phone: 202-393-7798

Shopping and Restaurants

District Warf is a mile-long stretch of waterfront in Washington D.C. along the Potomac River, just south of the National Mall. With a long and rich history, it is now ready to come to life again with hip restaurants, fashionable boutiques, residences, and businesses, all enjoying monumental views of the river.

The first phase of District Wharf is already complete and fully thriving. Each area of District Wharf has its own distinct personality, and the mile-long waterfront neighborhood is a delight to explore. There are areas catering to foodies right next door to the city’s best shopping, down the street from a verdant park open for relaxation or exercise. What was once a Native American settlement, then later L’Enfant’s vision of a gateway for the nation’s capital, a military hub, and even a fish market, is now a wonderful destination for residents and visitors. Map

Founding Farmers & Distillers is the most diverse restaurant founded by restaurateurs Dan Simons and Mike Vucurevich, as well as the over forty-seven thousand farmers with the North Dakota Farmers Union. The pair opened Farmers Fishers Bakers and Founding Farmers with a goal of connecting diners closer to the food source. Founding Farmers & Distillers continues that tradition and has shortened the supply chain, increased demand, and gotten family-farmed American products closer to the glass and plate. Founding Farmers & Distillers serves carefully sourced, made-from-scratch, delicious food to both visitors and locals alike in Washington, DC, including a brunch buffet on the weekends.

Founding Farmers & Distillers, 600 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, Phone: 202-464-3001