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5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Washington DC

Viewed by 429 travelers

Day 1: National Landmarks

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Start your family adventure with a hearty breakfast at Founding Farmers, where kids will love the pancakes and adults can indulge in farm-to-table delights.
Located just a 10-minute metro ride from the National Mall.
USD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Mall

Stroll along the National Mall, visiting the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol building - iconic landmarks every family should explore.
Walk around the Mall; it's very accessible.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Museum Café

Enjoy a quick and casual lunch at the National Gallery of Art's café, providing a lovely mix of sandwiches and salads.
Right within the National Gallery.
USD 50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the National Air and Space Museum

Delight in the wonders of flight and space with interactive exhibits that will fascinate both kids and adults alike.
Just a short walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the National Museum of American History

Continue exploring with the treasures of American history including Barbie’s Dream House and the original Star-Spangled Banner.
Easily accessible by foot from the Air and Space Museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

Cap off your day with a delicious seafood dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill, known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
About a 15-minute walk or a short Metro ride.
USD 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Smithsonian Segway Tour

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Start with a delightful organic breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien where you can enjoy baked goods and healthy options.
Located nearby, walk for 5 minutes.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Smithsonian Segway Tour

Enjoy a guided Segway tour of the National Mall, with the wind in your hair as you glide through the monuments and museums.
Meet at the Segway office, about 10 minutes walk.
USD 180, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History Café

Refuel at the museum's café, offering a range of kid-friendly meals and fun snacks.
Café is located within the museum.
USD 60, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the National Museum of Natural History

Witness the fascinating exhibits of dinosaurs, jewels, and ancient cultures, which are sure to enthrall the whole family.
Walk to the museum, just next door.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit the National Zoo

Spend the afternoon enjoying the wildlife at the National Zoo, where the pandas are a must-see for kids.
Take the Metro from the museum to Woodley Park stations.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Enjoy a sophisticated dinner but still family-friendly at The Capital Grille, offering a diverse menu great for all ages.
A short Metro ride or cab drive will take you there.
USD 150, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Interactive Learning

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Silver Diner

Fuel up with a classic American diner breakfast, including hearty options and delicious pancakes – perfect for a family.
A quick Metro ride will take you there.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the National Children's Museum

Engage with hands-on exhibits and interactive activities that make learning fun for the whole family at the National Children's Museum.
Return by Metro to the National Mall area.
USD 80, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the National Museum of American History Café

Dig into some delightful sandwiches and salads at the Museum Café that is perfect for families on the go.
Within walking distance of the National Children's Museum.
USD 50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the National Gallery of Art

Discover the beautiful artworks and iconic exhibitions, with fun and educational activities designed for kids.
Walk across the street from the café.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the International Spy Museum

Your family will love the spy-themed exhibits and interactive experiences at the International Spy Museum.
Head south via Metro to get there quickly.
USD 120, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rocket Pie

Unwind with a relaxed pizza dinner at Rocket Pie, where everyone can choose their favourite toppings for a custom pizza experience.
A short drive via ride service or Metro.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultures and Exhibits

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Plume

Enjoy an elegant breakfast with a family-friendly menu at Plume, known for its beautifully prepared dishes.
Walk to this luxury venue; it's about 15 minutes from the hotel.
USD 100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

Foster understanding and compassion as you explore the sobering exhibits at this museum, which provides guided family-friendly tours.
Head to the museum via rented bikes or on foot.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Top of the Hill Restaurant

Take in the views while enjoying a bite at Top of the Hill Restaurant, where lunch options cater to all ages.
A short walk away from the museum.
USD 70, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the National Museum of African American History and Culture

Immerse the family in rich African American history through exhibits that educate and inspire at this must-see destination.
Step out and walk to the museum, it’s nearby.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Visit the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Relax as a family while enjoying the beautiful sculptures and fountains in the Sculpture Garden, a refreshing space to unwind.
Walk back to the National Gallery.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at District Taco

Finish off your day with some tasty tacos from District Taco, perfect for a casual family dinner.
A quick ride or a pleasant walk.
USD 60, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: History and Nature

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Smith

Delight in a family-style breakfast at The Smith with plenty of options that everyone will love.
Within walking distance from your hotel.
USD 80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the National Mall by Bike

Rent bikes and cycle around the National Mall to see all the sights you've loved and perhaps some you missed!
Bike rentals are available nearby.
USD 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch with a picnic at the Tidal Basin

Pack a picnic lunch or pick up sandwiches and enjoy a relaxed meal by the scenic Tidal Basin.
Easy access by bike or foot from the Mall.
USD 40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Take in the powerful and inspiring Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, reflecting on its significance and history.
Bike over to the memorial, it's nearby.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore East Potomac Park

Spend the afternoon enjoying the ample green spaces and recreational activities at East Potomac Park.
A short bike ride from the Memorial.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Lincoln's Waffle Shop

Treat the family to a late afternoon meal at Lincoln's Waffle Shop, a classic diner known for its delicious waffles and hearty meals.
Return to downtown DC for a quick ride.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
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