Travel 3 minutes 10 October 2024

Washington, D.C. for Families

The nation's capital may be one of the most powerful cities in the world, but it's also one of the most family friendly.

Editor's Pick Hotels Travel Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. is home to over 70 museums, including a children's museum and the Smithsonian Zoo, dozens of parks, playgrounds, and gardens (even a lush, wooded island), quaint neighborhoods, and many historical and cultural landmarks that have come to define our nation. Water sports enthusiasts also have a lot to look forward to—from scenic boat rides along the Potomac and fun pedal boats in the Tidal Basin to kayaking and paddleboarding, DC has enough to keep everyone in the family busy and entertained.

With so many things to do here, it's no wonder the city's culinary scene is just as diverse and eclectic, offering an array of family-friendly options and cuisines. The city is famous for its many top-notch Ethiopian eateries, elevated Italian restaurants focusing on delicious home-cooked fare, and plenty of Mexican and South American dining venues that will satisfy palates and tastes of all ages.

That's why we put together a handy guide to help you make the most of your next family getaway to the nation's capital.

Hit the Museums

Even Washingtonians will tell you that one of D.C.'s best cultural assets is the sheer variety of museums, most of which are located downtown. If you are traveling with toddlers and younger kids, don't miss the National Museum of the American Indian, which has a separate interactive area with educational hands-on activities and experiences for those ten and under.

If you are raising future astronauts, then the National Air and Space Museum deserves a stop on your itinerary (and so does the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia). The museum has been undergoing a major renovation, slated for completion in 2026, but many of its galleries are already open, and feature immersive audiovisual exhibitions, artifacts, and fun flight and ride simulators. The Planetarium and IMAX theater have regular shows, including one for the museum's youngest visitors, where Big Bird and Elmo explore the night sky.

Just across from the National Air and Space Museum is the National Museum of Natural History, the largest of this kind in the world, where visitors can see ancient fossils, wondrous ocean creatures, and mammals (the museum's gift shop is always a hit with kids).

One of the city's newest additions is Planet Word, a phenomenal museum dedicated to language where children and parents can partake in karaoke sessions, explore hidden rooms in the museum's library, and record video messages in a professional studio.

Another under-the-radar pick is the National Building Museum, which offers an approachable look at architecture and design through permanent and seasonal exhibitions, such as Brick City, which displays famous buildings around the globe constructed with LEGO bricks.

Lastly, the National Children's Museum feels like a huge educational playground where young and school-aged children can discover the world through games and fun activities.

Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash / National Air and Space Museum

Parks for everyone

D.C. is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, with close to 700 public parks. Rock Creek Park is a 1,700-acre hub of tranquility crisscrossed with hiking and biking trails in the heart of the city, bordering the Smithsonian National Zoo. The Georgetown Waterfront Park offers scenic Potomac River views with plenty of room for running and walking. It transforms into a winter wonderland in the colder months, complete with an ice-skating ring. Also in Georgetown are the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park and the Dumbarton Oaks Park, perfect for leisurely strolls.

If you and your family really want to disconnect, head to Theodore Roosevelt Island, a wooded 91-acre sanctuary located in the Potomac River, with trails and a prime spot for birdwatching.

And, of course, if you prefer staying in downtown DC, then the National Mall is always a great idea. On any sunny day, you'll find families with children playing and flying kites on the grassy areas, enjoying prime views of some of the capital's most prominent landmarks. And if you're in town during Cherry Blossom season, which usually starts at the end of March and lasts until mid-April, a visit to the beautiful Tidal Basin is a must (it is important to note that the crowds are quite large during that time of the year, though).

Jacob Creswick on Unsplash / The National Mall

Family-Friendly Hotels

In recent years, the capital's hospitality scene has exploded with additions that blend modern hotel amenities with the comforts of home. In Rosewood Georgetown, travelers can stay in spacious guestrooms and suites with quaint canal views, steps away from the neighborhood's waterfront park, restaurants, and vibrant M street. The property also manages several townhouses with small private patios, fully-equipped kitchens, washer/dryer units, living rooms, and private entrances, all serviced by the hotel and accommodating up to four guests.

The award-winning boutique hotel, The Jefferson, sits downtown, offering proximity to the capital's landmarks (just four blocks from the White House) and sweeping city views. The Book Room with a working fireplace is a cozy space where families can unwind while the property's restaurant, The Greenhouse, is a favorite spot for breakfast and brunch with delicious crowd-pleasers like banana chocolate chip pancakes and fresh berry French toast as well as a vegetarian Croque monsieur and eggs Benedict with Italian prosciutto.

Another historic hotel, the Willard InterContinental, occupies a stunning Beaux-Arts building on Pennsylvania Avenue. Families can take advantage of the Willard's Kids Concierge program, which includes extra in-room amenities and delicious treats.

And if top-notch amenities are a priority, then consider staying at Pendry DC, located in the capital's hippest new neighborhood, the Wharf. With picture-perfect waterfront views, several restaurants, and a heated pool, the property has something for everyone.

The Jefferson

A (Kid-Friendly) Taste of the World

You can't leave D.C. without introducing your kids to the city's Ethiopian culinary scene. Try Family Ethiopian for a taste of this local favorite's home cooked dishes that span vegan, vegetarian, and seafood options served in a casual dining room. If you're dealing with picky eaters, then head to Grazie Nonna, the Red Hen, or Sfoglina, some of the city's best Italian eateries known for their extensive freshly made pizza and pasta offerings that will appeal to everyone.

Chef José Andrés's Zaytinya serves up Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese flavors in a modern dining room, and in Jaleo, you can choose from an extensive list of tapas, including kid-friendly options like mini burgers, ham and cheese sandwiches, and chicken fritters.