Guide to Visiting Washington DC - From museums to food, here are some tips and ideas for visiting 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, wonderful free museums, art galleries, and global cuisine. It is a place that definitely lends itself to multiple visits. I have lived in the suburbs of DC my whole life, and love that there is always a new museum exhibit, or attraction to put on my to-do list. 

With all the free activities, it’s easy to become overwhelmed when planning a weekend getaway or family vacation to Washington DC. In this guide you will find ideas and general advice for some of the best things to do in DC along with 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. We hope this guide with tips, things to do, and a few Washington DC family-friendly hotels will help you to plan a great visit to the Nation’s Capital! Keep in mind that some attractions may be requiring timed-entry passes; 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.  

*The information on this page was updated November, 2024 
Please note: *This post contains affiliate links; if you purchase something familyTravelsUSA may receive a small commission. As always, opinions are my own. 
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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, where you will find  features like self-guided walking tours and information about many historic sites. I love the level of  details the app provides you  about the sites along with other ideas for places to see around town.
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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 recently added a SmarTrip card to my Apple Wallet, making it super easy to use and add funds from my phone.  
Explore our 3-Day Washington DC Itinerary
Smithsonian Museum Information 
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.  Even though the Smithsonian Castle is temporarily closed, the Virtual Visitor Center can be used to get a better overall sense of the museums and exhibits. I would suggest that you allow at least half a day in any given museum.  ​​
Here are some thoughts on DC's museums:

​1. The most popular museums (also the most crowded) are the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History.  Remember that many of the museums have entrances on two sides, and one may be less crowded than the other. In October 2022, the National Air and Space Museum reopened with 8 new galleries; other gallery openings will be phased in over the next few years. Currently free-timed entry passes are required and should be reserved in advance. 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. Enjoy authentic regional food at the Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe at The National Museum of the American Indian. Menu items include regional specialties like Indian Tacos and fry bread.  The main dishes are somewhat pricey, but there are many side dish and appetizer choices that will give you a true taste of Native American food. The Sweet Home Café at the National Museum of African American History and Culture offers visitors a dining experience focused on African American culture and traditions (see below for entrance pass tips).  ​
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.  

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. Upstairs, visitors can purchase a timed-entry ticket for a stroll through the Butterfly Pavilion. Currently, admission to the Butterfly Pavilion is free on Tuesdays.
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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. 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. 
Happening Now!  Really BIG Money at the National Museum of American History. 
6. Another popular museum that requires free-timed tickets is the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visitors can 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.  If you can, get passes in advance.

7. DC is home to world-class art museums, including the wonderful National Gallery of Art. Other favorites include the Renwick Gallery, and the 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.
National Museum of the American Indian
National Museum of the American Indian
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. 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 on the Tidal Basin Tour,” they offer other 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 are humorous while providing exciting historical tidbits and stories.  Some of the tours use the “pay-what-you-like” system, so you can name your own price based on your experience.  Reservations are required, and you can make them online.

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.   
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Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall
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.

FDR Memorial in Washington, DC
World War II Memorial
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 in the summertime 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 must be requested through a Member of Congress following specific guidelines and at least 21 days in advance. Find out more by reading  How Can I Tour the White House in Washington, DC?
  • Visit Planet Word Museum. It's hard to describe this recent addition to the DC museum scene, but after visiting I have to say it was 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. Reserve tickets on-line. 
  • Hop on the metro from the National Mall and head to the National Zoo. The giant pandas have returned and expect to be on public display in late January, 2025! In the meantime, there are hundreds of different species that live at the zoo.  Admission is free but they do charge a parking fee if you choose to drive. As of November, 2024 entry passes were still required and can be obtained online;  walk in passes are free, car passes cost $30. 
  • From the National Zoo, take a 20 minute walk to the beautiful Washington National Cathedral.  They have an Explorer Pack for families to check out on a first-come, first-served basis that can be used as part of a general sightseeing tour. Bring binoculars to help spot the carved Darth Vader on the northwest tower. 
  • Plan to wait in line if you want to see the 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.
Don't miss seeing the DC Cherry Blossoms in the spring!
Cherry Blossoms on the Tidal Basin
  • 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. If you can, try to 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. 
  • 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. There are some free same-day tickets available, but they are first-come, first-served.  You can reserve tickets online for a small fee.  
  • ​​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.  When you are done, head over to the Library of Congress, where you can 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.
Take the free, one hour tour inside the Library of Congress Jefferson Building.
Jefferson Building, Library of Congress
  • ​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 Mall between 21st and 22nd and Constitution Avenue. It’s a great spot for some unique family photos!
  • Another favorite museum is the National Geographic Museum. Over the years we've seen a Terra Cotta Warrior exhibition, along with an exhibit focusing on archaeology and Indiana Jones. It's always worth checking their web site to see what's happening. The museum is currently closed for renovations, and we can't wait to visit once it reopens to the public. 
  • 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 a good stop if you are visiting the U.S. Capitol. The U.S. National Arboretum is a hidden gem about a 15 minute drive from the Capitol (with plenty of free parking). Besides the colorful garden collections and lots of open space, don't miss the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum located near the Visitor Center. Read more about why we think the U.S. National Arboretum is worth a visit. 

​Attractions Better Suited for Older Kids:
  • The International Spy Museum: A fun place to visit with teens, the Spy Museum reopened its doors in a larger state of the art building in L'Enfant Plaza. We recently visited and really enjoyed some of the new immersive activities and special exhibits. The museum store by itself is worth a visit.  The new location is 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
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International Spy Museum
Food Around the City
If you are spending the day at any of the Smithsonian Museums on the National Mall, your food choices are somewhat limited. The Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe and the Eat at America’s Table Cafe (inside the National Museum of American History) are probably your best bets if you want a quick lunch inside of one of the museums.  The Courtyard Café is a great spot for a break if you are visiting the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Other options around town include:
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Hill Country BBQ
  • ​A short walk up 7th Street near Constitution Avenue:  Hill Country BBQ, 410 7th Street, N.W. The perfect place to go for BBQ if you are near the National Archives or the National Gallery of Art. Nearby Carmine’s Italian Restaurant is known for large portions and family-style dining. 
  • Chinatown: There are plenty of places to sit down for some authentic local flavors, but will all the recent dining changes in the city, it's best to check online for the latest reviews.
  • 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 large 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, and Dukes. It's close to the Foggy Bottom metro. ​
  • ​Other spots in Northwest DC:  There are plenty of restaurants close to the Capital One Arena,. Locals and visitors alike love the breakfast at Ted’s Bulletin on 14th Street, and the history behind the half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street.  Stop by Mélange on K Street to try The National, a chicken sandwich Ethopian style. They also have an interesting milkshake menu. 
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Mélange
  • Close to Ford's Theatre District: Hard Rock Cafe, around 9th and E Streets, is always a fun place for kids. 
  • Georgetown: Take a quick cab ride over to Georgetown, where you will find over 100 restaurants, with everything from Pizzaria Paradiso  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.  

Accommodations
​When it comes to accommodations in any location, I always recommend reading the latest reviews on a site like Tripadvisor or Expedia.  In all our travels as a family, I have found many wonderful places based on traveler reviews  and current information.  When visiting DC there is also the option to stay in nearby Arlington, Alexandria, or Tysons Corner, Virginia.  All are close to or provide shuttle service to a nearby Metrorail station, and the Metro in DC is very user friendly. Here's a few hotel suggestions to start your search, ranked well in the family-friendly category, so check them out and see if they meet your criteria.  If your kids are like mine, no matter what famous sights they see, it’s all about the pool at the end of the day! Be sure to ask how much the daily parking fee will be if you are driving to Washington, DC. 
  • 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. 
  • 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. 
  • Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center: If you are looking for something outside of the city, yet accessible by Metro, consider the Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center. This hotel is adjacent to Tysons Corner Center (shopping mall) with easy access by Metro from Dulles Airport and to Washington, DC. 
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We would love to hear how your trip went, so feel free to post any comments or reviews on our blog page. Enjoy your visit!


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