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Things to Do in Washington, DC with Kids
Washington, DC is one of the best cities in the country for kids, and so much of it is free: dinosaurs and gems at the Smithsonian, real spacecraft, pandas at the zoo and monuments to climb. This guide is organized by area, with parent tips from our local guides and free picks flagged.
Our Historic Donut Tour mixes great donuts with DC history, and families tell us it's a fun way to keep kids interested in the city.
By the Underground Donut Tour team · Updated November 2026
At a glance
- Free favorites: The Smithsonian museums, the National Zoo, the National Mall and monuments, the US Botanic Garden, the Yards Park splash area
- Rainy day picks: National Museum of Natural History, National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History
- Sweet treat: Our Washington, DC donut tour welcomes kids 2 and up, with kids' tickets from $65
Kid-friendly things to do in Washington, DC, by neighborhood
The National Mall
Lincoln Memorial and the monuments
FreeClimb the steps and walk the Reflecting Pool.
Parent tip: The Mall is bigger than it looks. Pick two museums a day and use a scooter or bikeshare between them.
Neighborhoods
The Yards Park
FreeA riverside park with a splash area in summer.
Georgetown Waterfront Park
FreeFountains and river views.
Sweet treats and kid-friendly eats
Underground Donut Tour (kids' tickets from $65, ages 2 and up). Our Historic Donut Tour walks DC with stops for local donuts and stories about the city's past and present. Guides set the pace around your group, which makes it easy with kids.
Taste Washington, DC's best donuts on one walk
Kids 2 and up are welcome. Guides set an easy pace for little legs.
Parent tip: Let us know about allergies or dietary needs when you book, and download our free Kids' Activity Book for the trip.
What families say about our Washington, DC tours
"Fun tour for kids and adults with tons of interesting historical facts, information about the city, and delicious donuts!"
Sheetal E., TripAdvisor, June 2026
"Our 8 year old came with us and we saw parts of DC we've never experienced. Great family activity for kids that like food."
Sarah S., TripAdvisor, March 2026
"Definitely one of my kids favorite parts of our time in DC."
hopkinton2, TripAdvisor, February 2026
All 5-star guest reviews.
Exploring on your own? Our Best Donut Shops in Washington, DC guide lists the city's best donut shops by neighborhood, and Best Holiday Donuts in Washington, DC covers the festive specials.
Sample days
Day 1: Donuts and dinosaurs
- Morning: Historic Donut Tour.
- National Museum of Natural History.
- Picnic on the Mall.
- Lincoln Memorial at sunset.
Day 2: Space and history
- Air and Space Museum with timed passes.
- Lunch.
- Museum of American History.
- US Botanic Garden.
Day 3: Animals and the river
- National Zoo.
- Lunch.
- The Yards Park or Georgetown waterfront.
- Dinner by the river.
Washington, DC with kids by season
Holidays
- National Christmas Tree: a giant tree near the White House, plus state trees.
- ZooLights at the National Zoo: a lights display on winter evenings.
- US Botanic Garden holiday show: model trains and holiday plants.
- For seasonal treats, see Best Holiday Donuts in Washington, DC.
The rest of the year
- Spring: cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin.
- Summer: hot and busy. Plan museums midday and splash parks in the afternoon.
- Fall: great walking weather on the Mall.
- Winter: fewer crowds and holiday lights.
Washington, DC with kids FAQ
Is the DC donut tour good for kids?
Yes. Kids 2 and up are welcome, guides keep the history fun, and kids' tickets start at $65.
What are free things to do in Washington, DC with kids?
The Smithsonian museums, the National Zoo, the monuments, the US Botanic Garden and the Yards Park.
Do you need passes for the Smithsonian?
Most museums are walk-in, but some, like Air and Space, need free timed passes. Check before you go.
What's a good rainy-day plan?
Natural History, Air and Space or the Museum of American History.