washington dc family vacation itinerary

the ultimate

With its multitude of free, hands-on museums, kid-friendly attractions, and a plethora of American artifacts, Washington DC is an iconic and fun family vacation destination. Look no further for all of the best things to do in Washington DC with kids, including a 1-7 day Washington DC itinerary!

Day 1

U.S. Capitol Building

Make advanced reservations to start the morning off with a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building. Then spend the afternoon visiting as many of the free Smithsonian Museums that you have the time and patience for.

Day 2

The White House

Start the morning off with a private tour of The White House. Afterward, make your way to the Washington Monument. Spend the afternoon at the World War II Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, as well as visiting the Thomas Jefferson, FDR, Martin Luther King Jr., Korean, Vietnam, and Lincoln Memorials.

Day 3

Museums

Start your morning off by visiting the International Spy Museum. Next, spend the afternoon visiting the United States Holocaust Museum and a few more Smithsonian Museums. Don’t forget to stop by the National Archives Museum.

Day 4

Arlington  National Cemetary

Visit Arlington National Cemetery and witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. After, stop at the Iwo Jima Marine Corps War Memorial. Finally, go to an evening performance at Ford’s Theatre or The John F. Kennedy Center.

Day 5

Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is the former plantation and burial place of George Washington, the American Revolutionary War general and first President of the United States. Visitors can tour George and Martha’s mansion, its expansive gardens, Washington’s tomb, the slave memorial, and a still-working farm.

Day 6

The National Zoo

Spend 3 hours visiting Smithsonian’s National Zoo. Afterward, visit the nearby Washington National Cathedral and then wind down at Rock Creek Park.

Day 7

Explore Around

We loved exploring Monticello, the mountaintop home of Thomas Jefferson, visiting the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, and finally, spending a night in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

33 Best Things To Do in Washington DC With Kids of All Ages

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