Washington DC 5 Days With Children
Day 1: Smithsonian Museums and National Mall
Morning:
– Start at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Kids will love exploring the interactive exhibits and seeing real spacecraft.
– Take a stroll on the National Mall and have a picnic lunch. Let the kids run around and enjoy the open space.
Afternoon:
– Visit the National Museum of Natural History. Kids can marvel at dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and interactive displays.
– Explore the National Museum of American History, focusing on exhibits like Spark!Lab, a hands-on invention space for kids.
Evening:
– Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant near the National Mall.
– Take an evening monument tour to see the iconic landmarks illuminated.
Day 2: Zoo and Outdoor Adventures
Morning:
– Spend the morning at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park (National Zoo). See animals like pandas, lions, and elephants.
– Have lunch at one of the eateries inside the zoo or nearby.
Afternoon:
– Visit the National Children’s Museum for hands-on exhibits and interactive activities designed for kids.
– Head to the National Mall for outdoor fun. Let the kids play at the playground near the Washington Monument or rent paddle boats at the Tidal Basin.
Evening:
– Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the Penn Quarter or Chinatown area.
– Consider catching a family-friendly show at Ford’s Theatre or the Discovery Theater.
Day 3: Interactive Museums and Exploring
Morning:
– Start at the International Spy Museum. Kids can become spies for the day with interactive exhibits and missions.
– Visit the National Museum of American History again, focusing on the transportation and innovation exhibits.
Afternoon:
– Explore the United States Botanic Garden. Kids can discover various plant species and enjoy the interactive exhibits.
– Take a short walk to the United States Capitol Visitor Center for a family-friendly guided tour.
Evening:
– Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
– End the day with a visit to the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, where kids can play among the outdoor sculptures.
Day 4: Exploring Neighborhoods and Cultural Experiences
Morning:
– Explore the historic Georgetown neighborhood. Visit the C&O Canal and Georgetown Waterfront Park.
– Have lunch at a family-friendly restaurant in Georgetown.
Afternoon:
– Visit the National Geographic Museum for interactive exhibits and educational experiences.
– Take a family bike tour around the National Mall or along the Potomac River.
Evening:
– Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with outdoor seating in Georgetown.
– Walk along the waterfront and enjoy the scenic views.
Day 5: Day Trip and Outdoor Fun
Day Trip to Mount Vernon:
– Take a day trip to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. Explore the mansion, gardens, and interactive exhibits.
– Have lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant or pack a picnic to enjoy on the estate grounds.
– Return to DC in the late afternoon.
Evening:
– Have a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in DC.
– Take a leisurely evening stroll around the National Mall and reflect on your memorable trip.