This Guide to Visiting Washington DC Includes Our Best Tips and Resources

Guide to Visiting Washington DC view of the US Capitol

From museums to food, our Washington DC travel guide will help you plan your best visit to our Nation’s Capital!

Is a trip to Washington, DC on your travel list? It’s a popular spot for visitors of all ages with good reason. The city is filled with memorials and monuments. It also has wonderful art galleries, free museums, and diverse cuisine.

I have lived in the suburbs of DC my whole life and love that there is always a new museum exhibit or attraction to add to my to-do list. Visiting the city truly never gets old.

With all the free activities and things to do in Washington, DC, it’s easy to become overwhelmed when planning a weekend getaway or family vacation. This guide to visiting Washington DC will help you get started. It includes our best tips, things not to miss, and insight from the perspective of a local.

As a family, we have explored many of DC’s attractions over the years, so be sure to check out all the related blog posts with more fun things to do throughout the city and nearby suburbs.

Explore a Washington DC bucket list, read After the Smithsonian – 6 More DC Museums Worth a Visit, and take a walk through some of DC’s fabulous art museums.

Highlights for Summer 2026

  • The Smithsonian Castle has temporarily reopened through September 7th. It serves as the Smithsonian Visitor Center, or you can use the Virtual Visitor Center to get a better overall sense of the museums and exhibits.
  • Grab a timed-entry ticket when available to visit the new Lincoln Memorial Undercroft Museum after it opens on June 25, 2026. I can’t wait to check out this new exhibit space under the Lincoln Memorial!
  • On June 26, 2026, the new state-of-the-art National Geographic Museum of Exploration will open. Tickets are now available on-line.

We hope this guide to visiting Washington, DC with tips, things to do, and a few family-friendly hotels will help you to plan a great visit to the Nation’s Capital! We have done our best to keep things updated but it’s always a good practice to check out the attraction website for the latest.  

(Updated May 2026)

This post contains affiliate links; if you purchase something familyTravelsUSA may receive a small commission. As always, opinions are my own. 

Before You Visit 

If you are travelling with kids, consider purchasing a book like Mission Washington, D.C.: A Scavenger Hunt Adventure to get kids engaged while they are visiting DC. 

Download the National Parks App, and search for the National Mall and Memorial Parks. There you will find self-guided walking tours and information about many historic sites. I love the level of detail the app provides along with other ideas for places to see around town.
​
Depending on where you are staying and what parts of the city you are exploring,  DC’s Metrorail system is a great way to get around town. It’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the system before you go and generally understand the fare structure. Online purchases of SmarTrip® cards can be made prior to your visit.

I added a SmarTrip card to my Apple Wallet, making it super easy to use and add funds from my phone. Tap.Ride.Go is also now available for use, allowing individual riders to tap a credit card at the faregate. Just be sure to use the same card both entering and leaving, with one card per rider. 

After you read this guide to visiting Washington, DC, explore our suggested 3-Day Washington DC Itinerary to better understand how you can structure a visit. Keep in mind that the time spent in any of the museums is probably the biggest variable as you plan your trip.

*This post contains affiliate links; if you purchase something, familyTravelsUSA may receive a small commission. As always, opinions are my own.

Smithsonian Museum Information 

No guide to visiting Washington DC would be complete without details on the wonderful Smithsonian museums! Did you know that the Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum complex? The best part is that admission to the Smithsonian museums and the zoo in DC is FREE!

The Smithsonian website offers general information along with great tips for visiting with kids. The website is also the best source for the latest information on temporary closures or changes in operating hours. 

It was just announced that the Smithsonian Castle will temporarily reopen from May 22nd through September 7th. Stop in to see the new exhibits then grab a lobster roll or whoopie pie at the new Castle Café Summer Shack 250. As you plan your museum visits, I would suggest that you allow at least half a day in any given museum.  ​​

Read Smithsonian’s “Our Shared Future: 250” to learn more about special events in 2026

Here are some thoughts on DC’s museums:

​1. The most popular museums (also the most crowded) include the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History. The newly opened galleries at the Air and Space Museum are impressive! Remember that many of the museums have entrances on two sides, and one may be less crowded than the other.

In July 2025, more new exhibitions opened at the Air and Space Museum, with the final half dozen scheduled to reopen in mid-2026.

Plane at National Air and Space Museum - Washington DC Travel Guide

Free-timed entry passes are required and should be reserved in advance. Limited same-day passes are released each day starting at 8:30 am. If you are coming through Dulles Airport on your way to DC, consider a visit to the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, an amazing companion museum to the National Air and Space Museum. Note the museum admission is free but there is a $15 fee to park. 
​
2. It’s not just the museum exhibits that attract attention. Visitors can try regional food at several of the museum restaurants. The menu at the Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe at the National Museum of the American Indian offers authentic items. Try a fry bread taco and a Chicken mole verde tostada. Consider splitting one or two items to cut down on costs.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is home to the Sweet Home Café, where visitors will find a dining experience focused on African American culture and traditions (see below for entrance pass tips). The museum offers a Dine and Shop pass option if you just want to try the restaurant or visit the museum store.

At the National Museum of American History, the Eat at America’s Table Cafe is worth checking out. For coffee and gelato, check out Dolcezza at the Hirshhorn before or after your visit.

There are also several dining options at the National Gallery of Art. While none of these places are necessarily inexpensive, you can’t beat the convenience if you are visiting one of the museums. ​

By summer 2026, visitors will have new food options around the National Mall, with upgrades to eight kiosks plus additional food carts.

3. Don’t miss the Star-Spangled Banner exhibition, on display at the National Museum of American History. You can also search for Dorothy’s famous red slippers from the Wizard of Oz, in addition to other historical artifacts throughout the museum.  

Happening Now!  American Winners: Athletes and Entertainers Who Shaped the Nation at the National Portrait Gallery and State Fairs: Growing American Craft at the Renwick Gallery, both through September 7, 2026

4. Both kids and adults won’t want to miss the exhibit hall at the National Museum of Natural History – Deep Time. This highly engaging exhibit on the 1st floor is filled with fossils in all sizes,  plus lots of fun, learning experiences throughout. Then head upstairs to explore the Eternal Life in Ancient Egypt exhibit.

5. Off the National Mall, head to the National Portrait Gallery. Explore family-friendly resources and events here. The highlight of the museum is the America’s Presidents exhibit (temporarily closed through May 15, 2026).

The building also is home to the Smithsonian American Art Museum, another gem to visit, with the newly expanded Galleries for Modern and Contemporary Art. ​The enclosed Kogod Courtyard between the two museums is a perfect spot to sit and relax for a few minutes. 

6. If the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture is on your list, be sure to get free-timed tickets in advance. Visitors can also try for same day timed-entry passes on the website beginning promptly at 8:15 am.

While availability of same day passes is never guaranteed, I tested this out on a Saturday morning and found that there were plenty of time slots available at 8:15, but after about 20 minutes, almost all of the passes were gone. 

7. DC is home to world-class art museums, including the wonderful National Gallery of Art. Free admission makes it easy to pop in for a short visit, like we recently did to see the wonderful exhibit, The Stars We Do Not See Australian Indigenous Art.

Other favorites include the Renwick Gallery, and the outdoor National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden (home to a winter ice rink). Note that the outdoor Sculpture Garden at the Hirshhorn is currently closed for renovations. Find more details as you take a walk through some of DC’s fabulous art museums.

​​8. Be sure to check in at the museum information desk, as each museum can offer helpful tips and/or guides for enhancing your visit.

Walking Tours of the National Mall

While there are many neighborhoods in DC to explore, the area around the National Mall, which is bordered by the Lincoln Memorial on one end and the U.S. Capitol on the other, is the best place to begin your tourist activities.

The beauty of the National Mall is that you can stroll along at your leisure, and there is plenty of open space for kids to run. The National Park app offers a self-guided National Mall Half-Day Tour where you can read details at each stop.

A fun way to get oriented and a must for any visit to DC is to take a walking tour of all the monuments and memorials. Tripadvisor, one of my favorite go-to travel review websites, has several highly recommended walking tours, most which include the main monuments, such as the Lincoln, Jefferson and FDR Memorials. 

Another option to keep everyone entertained while walking is DC by Foot. In addition to the National Mall and Memorials tours, they offer specialty tours where you can visit sites related to Lincoln’s assassination or you can learn about the spirits and ghosts that haunt the streets of Georgetown. 

The guides often use humor to share historical tidbits and stories. Reservations are required, and you can make them online. Don’t have time for a guided tour? Purchase one of the self-guided audio tours to take at your leisure.

Traveling with teens or just want to try something different? Consider the Underground Donut Tour! No, you don’t really go underground, but it’s a fun way to take in a little history while enjoying delicious donuts at several downtown DC locations not far from the National Mall.   ​

If you don’t really feel like walking all over town, there are several tour companies that offer bus tours, both during the day and at night. Tours after dark will give you a different perspective on the city. Visit the National Mall and Memorial Parks website or social media accounts for more details and updates on ranger-led tours.

Other Cool Attractions for all Ages

As I mentioned earlier, DC has so many tourist attractions in addition to all the museums and historic sites, so I have narrowed this list down to a smaller group of other activities (just keep in mind that DC is a popular city to visit from spring through summer and attractions can get very crowded so head out early in the day if you can).

We’ve enjoyed many of these attractions over the years; note that some still have limited hours or may be temporarily closed.

  • Take a Stroll by the White House. Head to Lafayette Square for a view of the White House. Public tours inside must be requested through a Member of Congress following specific guidelines and at least 21 days in advance.
  • Read How Can I Tour the White House in Washington, DC? Or consider a visit to The People’s House: A White House Experience.
  • Reserve tickets in advance if going to the top of the Washington Monument is on your list. In the alternative, head to the observation deck in the Old Post Office Tower (12th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue). Unfortunately, the Old Post Office Tower is temporarily closed and the National Park Service is no longer managing the site.
  • Visit Planet Word Museum (reserve tickets on-line). It’s hard to describe this newer addition to the DC museum scene, but it’s very engaging with a variety of interactive and voice activated exhibits. Don’t miss the cool Library exhibit! Currently open every day except Tuesdays, with a suggested donation admission policy.
  • Hop on the metro from the National Mall and head to the National Zoo. The giant pandas have returned, so take a walk on the Asia Trail to catch a glimpse of Bao Li and Qing Bao, and look for the red pandas while you are there. Admission to the zoo is free but they do charge a parking fee if you choose to drive.
  • As of January 2026, entry passes to the National Zoo were still required and can be obtained online; walk-in passes are free, car passes cost $30 online or $40 if purchased on the same day in person. 
  • From the National Zoo, take a 20 minute walk to the beautiful Washington National Cathedral. Bring binoculars to get a closer look as you stroll the grounds; you will need them to spot the carved Darth Vader on the northwest tower. Families can check out an Explorer Pack on a first-come, first-served basis that can be used as part of a general sightseeing tour.
  • Take a free tour of the U.S. Capitol Building, including the 580,000 square foot underground Visitor’s Center. Passes are required and tours should be scheduled in advance, either on your own or through a Representatives or Senator from your state. It is free to enter the Capitol Visitor Center.
  • Then head over to the Library of Congress to tour the Jefferson Building. You will be surprised at the beauty found inside the building. Reserve time-entry tickets in advance, or you can risk trying the morning of your visit. The Library of Congress is currently closed on Sundays and Mondays.
  • Plan to wait in line if you want to see historic documents like the original Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights at the National Archives. Arrive as early as possible. Reservations are not required, but timed entry tickets may be reserved up to 90 days in advance.
  • Walk along the Tidal Basin and see the iconic cherry blossoms in the spring. While it’s harder and harder to predict the spring weather and blossom period, seeing the cherry blossoms in full bloom should be on your DC bucket list.
  • If you are lucky enough to be in town when they are blooming, head out in the early morning before the big crowds. Read more and find our tips for visiting during DC’s Cherry Blossom festival.
  • Tour Arlington National Cemetery. Hop on the Metro or walk across the Memorial Bridge after visiting the Lincoln Memorial. Visit the Welcome Center to pick up maps and other information.
  • While at Arlington National Cemetery, view the Changing of the Guard, which happens at least every hour (more in the warmer months). You can also visit the grave site of John F. Kennedy, one of two US presidents buried at Arlington.
  • The tram tour at Arlington National Cemetery makes it easier to visit other parts of the cemetery and learn more history. The tram offers the option to hop on and off in several locations.    
  • Visit the site of President Lincoln’s assassination, Ford’s Theatre. The museum takes about 30-45 minutes and includes real artifacts such as the clothing Lincoln was wearing the night he was shot.
  • You can also listen to a National Park Ranger talk while sitting in the Ford’s Theatre, or visit the Petersen House across the street, where Lincoln was taken after he was shot. Free same-day tickets for Ford’s Theatre are first-come, first-served. You can reserve tickets online for a small fee.  
  • Take the Bureau of Engraving and Printing Tour: Learn all about U.S. paper currency production during a 45 minute tour. Reserve free, timed-entry tickets online, and well in advance during the busy spring and summer months.
  • ​​​For those who love the water, visit the Key Bridge Boathouse, where you can rent kayaks and paddleboards and view the city from the Potomac River.  They also offer classes and guided kayak tours. 
  • Sports enthusiasts can take in a baseball game at Nationals Park, or just enjoy a guided tour of the stadium. The stadium can be reached via Metro. The nearby DC Wharf offers a variety of restaurants and outdoor space along the waterfront.   
  • If you have kids who love to build or are fascinated with architecture, the National Building Museum is a good place to visit. It is a private institution that charges an entrance fee but always has fun hands-on activities for young builders and future architects.  
  • Visit the larger-than-life Einstein Memorial, on the grounds of the National Academy of Sciences, which is just off the National Mall between 21st and 22nd and Constitution Avenue. It’s a great spot for some unique family photos!
  • We can’t wait to visit the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration when it opens to the public in summer 2026. Over the years we’ve seen a Terra Cotta Warrior exhibition, along with an exhibit focusing on archaeology and Indiana Jones at the original National Geographic Museum.
  • Stroll Through a Garden. If you need a break from the city streets, pop into one of DC’s amazing gardens. The Enid A. A. Haupt Garden next to the Smithsonian Castle complex is a perfect place to visit while exploring the National Mall. 
  • The U.S. Botanic Garden has special exhibits throughout the year, including their popular holiday Season’s Greenings. It’s an easy stop if you are visiting the U.S. Capitol. Be sure to walk over to the nearby Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens. Frédéric Bartholdi, who created the Statue of Liberty, also created the fountain.
  • The U.S. National Arboretum is a hidden gem about a 15-minute drive from the Capitol (with free parking in several lots). Besides the colorful garden collections and lots of open space, don’t miss the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum located near the Visitor Center.
  • Many visitors to Washington DC also take time to visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon. There is a lot to see and do, so check online to help with planning. Learn how to travel to Mount Vernon from DC via a boat tour here.

Attractions Better Suited for Older Kids:

  • The International Spy Museum: A fun place to visit with teens, the Spy Museum reopened its doors several years back in a larger state of the art building in L’Enfant Plaza. We love all the immersive activities and special exhibits. The museum store by itself is worth a visit, with the new location easy to reach from the L’Enfant Plaza Metro station.  ​
  • The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum: As expected, this museum is best for older kids with some knowledge and understanding of the Holocaust. The main exhibition consists of three floors of artifacts and photographs, which span the years 1933 through 1945. Free timed-entry tickets are still required to see the permanent exhibition. 
  • Read After the Smithsonian: 6 More DC Museums Worth a Visit

Eating Around Washington DC

If you are spending the day at any of the Smithsonian Museums on the National Mall, there are a few options within the museums. The Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe (with an updated menu and new chef at the National Museum of the American Indian) and Eat at America’s Table Cafe (at the National Museum of American History) are options for a quick lunch inside of one of the museums without a ticket.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is home to the Sweet Home Café (reserve a Dine & Shop pass for entry if you aren’t already in the museum). The Courtyard Café is a great spot for a break if you are visiting the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

We recently walked past the spacious Cascade Café in the National Gallery of Art, which offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Here’s some other options around town:

  • ​A short walk up 7th Street near Constitution Avenue:  Carmine’s Italian Restaurant is known for large portions and family-style dining. Reserve a table at nearby Oyamel for a lively Mexican food experience, or try China Chilcano, both delicious and a part of the José Andrés Group of restaurants. 
  • On the National Mall near the Air and Space Museum, Bar Americano opened a kiosk serving limited breakfast items, coffee, pizza, and wine. Hours vary, not open every day. I’m excited to check out the new kiosks and menus rolling out on the National Mall for summer 2026.
  • The food trucks around the National Mall can be hit or miss, and often visitors complain about overpaying for a mediocre meal. It’s probably best to check a site like YELP for the latest reviews. 
  • ​Other spots in Northwest DC:  There are a number of restaurants close to the National Portrait Gallery. Enjoy a festive breakfast or lunch at Urban Roast, known for their shared plates and Instagram-worthy decorations throughout the year (best to make a reservation).
  • Locals and visitors alike love the breakfast or dinner at Ted’s Bulletin on 14th Street, and the history behind the half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street. Make a reservation for lunch or dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill near the White House. Founding Farmers has several DC locations, you’ll want to make a reservation there as well.
  • GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar offers a variety of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, while Astro Doughnuts and Fried Chicken serves breakfast and their popular doughnuts until 11:30 a.m., when they start serving their famous fried chicken. 
  • Other choices include the Capital Burger, or Pret a Manger for something quick. DC Vegan, closer to the Dupont Circle Metro, is a popular spot we have enjoyed for lunch. Western Market, close to the Foggy Bottom Metro, is an upscale eatery with delicious choices. 
  • Capitol Hill:  Check out the Good Stuff Eatery close to the U.S. Capitol for burgers or We,The Pizza.
  • Near the National Zoo: Duke’s Counter, just across the street from the National Zoo, offers burgers, sandwiches, and a kids menu. For pizza, 2 Amys is another popular spot closer to the National Cathedral. 
  • Historic Food Markets: For a different perspective, visit one of the historic markets in DC.  Head to Eastern Market on any weekend, when street vendors fill the area surrounding the market. Inside be sure to stop at Bowers Fancy Dairy Products to pick up some cheese!  
  • Across town, we’ve eaten at Union Market on several occasions, and were overwhelmed (in a good way) by so many food choices. I was also pleasantly surprised by the parking lot just outside the market.
  • Western Market, named for the historic market built in 1802, is a modern food hall with popular DC favorites like Andy’s Pizza, Roaming Rooster, Dukes, and the cute Maman cafe. It’s easily walkable from the Foggy Bottom metro.  ​
  • Georgetown: Take a quick cab ride over to Georgetown, where you will find over 100 restaurants, with everything from the classic Filomena Ristorante to the famous Georgetown Cupcake.
  • Baked and Wired is another popular dessert spot, with a huge selection of treats. Call Your Mother Deli is great for bagels (call ahead if you can), and Farmers Fishers Bakers offers a large menu with dining on the Georgetown waterfront. 
two photos, one with coffee and pastries and the other with a breakfast board filled with food

Accommodations In and Around Washington DC

​You can start your search here, browsing popular hotels in the family-friendly category. Look for hotels with amenities like free breakfast or proximity to the Metro. Always pay attention to the latest reviews on any hotel booking site. Consider options in nearby Arlington or Alexandria, Virginia, many which are close to a Metrorail station.

Be sure to ask how much the daily parking fee will be if you are driving to Washington, DC. The Silver Line Metro extension to Dulles Airport provides car-free access to downtown DC.

  • Want to be close to the Metro? Consider the Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf, which offers easy access to the L’Enfant Plaza Metro and has a pool. Nearby at The Wharf are several other hotels and restaurants along the Potomac River. 
  • Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill: Find the Hyatt Regency close to the US Capitol and an easy walk to the National Mall. 
  • Residence Inn Washington, DC/National Mall: This pet-friendly hotel offers free breakfast and a pool, with family-friendly hotel suites. 
  • Washington Plaza Hotel: This quieter hotel on Thomas Circle had some great reviews for value, along with a clean, street-level pool. 
  • Royal Sonesta Washington DC Dupont Circle: Located near the Dupont Circle metro, with an outdoor heated pool, and lots of nearby food choices, including Pizzeria Paradiso.
  • Motto by Hilton: If you are looking for a basic room mostly for sleeping, then consider Motto by Hilton. Rooms are compact and no-frills. We’ve had pleasant stays twice at the Motto in Philadelphia. 
  • Hotel Hive is another popular micro-hotel that offers compact rooms and a rooftop bar, not far from the Foggy Bottom metro. One thing we have noticed when staying in micro-hotels is that the bathroom doors might not offer as much privacy as traditional bathrooms (think frosted doors or barn-type doors that don’t quite close all the way). 
  • ​​Hampton Inn Washington DC White House: Great location near Metro station, offers complimentary breakfast and has an indoor pool.  
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton, Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge is located just across the Potomac River, a short trip from Georgetown and DC via car or Metro. This hotel offers pet friendly rooms and fully equipped kitchens. ​
  • Another option just outside of DC, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Alexandria Old Town is conveniently just across the street from the King Street Metro Station (take the Yellow Line train into DC to L’Enfant Plaza, where you can transfer to other lines). There is also a free shuttle to the Old Town Alexandria Waterfront area, with access to restaurants and shops.

We would love to hear how your trip went, so feel free to post any comments on our blog page. Enjoy your visit!