3-Day Family-Friendly Educational Itinerary in Washington, DC

Day 1: Explore National Mall

Washington, DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of fresh farm-to-table options at Founding Farmers, popular among locals and visitors alike.
Walk 10 minutes to the National Mall after breakfast.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Lincoln Memorial

Stand in awe at the Lincoln Memorial while reflecting on its significance in American history and admire the stunning views of the Reflecting Pool.
Walk 15 minutes along the Mall.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tour the National World War II Memorial

Explore the sprawling World War II Memorial, dedicated to the American people who served during the Second World War.
Continue walking for 5 minutes.
Free, 45 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at The Perk

Refuel with a casual lunch at The Perk Café located within the National Gallery of Art, offering sandwiches and salads.
Walk 5 minutes to the café.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the National Gallery of Art

Spend your afternoon exploring stunning art collections, including masterpieces by Van Gogh and Monet at the National Gallery of Art.
No navigation needed, as it's in the same building.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Smithsonian Institution Building (the Castle)

Learn about the various Smithsonian museums and plan your next days, while also enjoying the beautiful gardens surrounding the Castle.
A short 5-minute walk from the gallery.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Share a family meal at The Capital Grille, known for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list, located just a few blocks from the National Mall.
Walk 7 minutes.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Smithsonian Museums Day

Washington, DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café at the National Gallery

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast featuring pastries and fresh coffee at the café located in the National Gallery of Art East Building.
Walk 10 minutes to the Smithsonian museums.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

American Museum of Natural History

Discover fascinating exhibits including dinosaur skeletons and the Hope Diamond at the American Museum of Natural History.
A 5-minute walk from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the National Air and Space Museum

Learn about the history of aviation and space travel with hands-on exhibits, perfect for kids.
Short 10-minute walk next door.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the National Air and Space Museum Café

Enjoy lunch at the museum café, serving kid-friendly options like pizza and sandwiches.
Same location as the museum.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the National Museum of American History

Explore American history through artifacts like the original Star-Spangled Banner and pop culture exhibits.
Walk 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore the National Museum of African American History and Culture

Dive into America’s rich and complex history through interactive exhibits that engage the entire family.
A brief 10-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

Indulge in classic American cuisine at Old Ebbitt Grill, famous for its oysters and historical ambiance.
Walk 15 minutes from the museums.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Capitol Hill & National Zoo

Washington, DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Buzz Bakery

Start your day with sweet treats and breakfast sandwiches at Buzz Bakery, just a short drive from your accommodation.
Drive or take a quick taxi (15 minutes) to the zoo.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Zoo

Watch your kids' faces light up as they see the giant pandas and other wildlife at the National Zoo, a fun and educational experience.
Walking around the zoo.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Zoo's Mane Grill

Grab a quick bite at the Mane Grill inside the zoo, offering burgers and salads.
Same location as the zoo.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Capitol Hill

Walk the grounds of Capitol Hill and engage in a family-guided tour of the U.S. Capitol building.
Take a 15-minute Uber or nearby bus.
Free with prior booking for guided tour, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Library of Congress

Marvel at the stunning architecture and learn about the nation's literature at the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world.
A 10-minute walk from Capitol Hill.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Wrap Up at the Supreme Court

Conclude your educational journey by visiting the Supreme Court, where you can learn about the American legal system.
A short 5-minute walk.
Free, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Dinner at Georgia Brown's

End your trip with a delicious dinner featuring Southern comfort food at Georgia Brown's, just a short ride from the Capitol.
Take a 10-minute Uber.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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