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Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary in Washington D.C.

Viewed by 116 travelers

Day 1: Exploring National Mall

Washington D.C., USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Start your day at Founding Farmers, known for its delicious, farm-fresh breakfast offerings that the whole family will love.
Take a quick drive or use the Metro to reach the restaurant located in Foggy Bottom.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

After breakfast, head to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum for an immersive experience in aviation and space exploration.
Walk to the museum located just minutes away on the National Mall.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Castle Café

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Castle Café situated near the Smithsonian Castle, which offers a family-friendly menu.
Stroll over to the café, conveniently located on the National Mall.
USD50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Tour the National Museum of Natural History

Your next stop is the National Museum of Natural History where you can admire the Hope Diamond and friendly dinosaur exhibits.
Walk a short distance to the museum.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Spend some relaxation time at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, where kids can run around and enjoy art installations.
Stroll over to the Sculpture Garden.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

Conclude your day with a classic DC dining experience at Old Ebbitt Grill, famous for its oysters and American cuisine.
Take a short taxi ride to the restaurant in Downtown D.C.
USD120, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: History and Monuments

Washington D.C., USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Red Hen

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at The Red Hen, known for its fresh ingredients and rustic charm.
Drive or take the Metro to the restaurant located in the NoMa neighborhood.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Lincoln Memorial

Start your monument tour at the iconic Lincoln Memorial, where the famous statue of Abe Lincoln provides perfect photo opportunities.
Ride the Metro to Foggy Bottom and walk to the memorial.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Just a short walk away, pay your respects at the poignant Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Walk to the memorial which is nearby.
Free, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Visit the World War II Memorial

Continue your memorial tour by visiting the beautiful WWII Memorial, a great place for photos and reflection.
It’s a short stroll from the Vietnam Memorial.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Hamilton

Savor delicious American fare for lunch at The Hamilton, conveniently located a short distance away.
Take a brief taxi ride to The Hamilton.
USD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tour the Capital Building

After lunch, take a guided tour of the majestic Capitol Building, capturing the essence of American government.
Use the Metro to get to Capitol South.
Free with reservation, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Smith

Wrap up the day with dinner at The Smith, known for its vibrant atmosphere and an extensive menu suitable for the whole family.
A short Metro ride away from Capitol Hill.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Washington D.C., USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Duck Tavern

Indulge in breakfast at Blue Duck Tavern, offering seasonal dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients.
Take a car service or metro to the West End neighborhood.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture

A must-visit, this museum beautifully addresses the impact of African American culture and history in the U.S.
Head back to the National Mall and walk to the museum.
Free (timed tickets required), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sweet Home Café

Located in the museum, Sweet Home Café offers a delicious menu inspired by African American cuisines.
Enjoy the convenience of lunch right inside the museum.
USD60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Tour the United States Botanic Garden

After lunch, explore the lush beauty of the United States Botanic Garden, where kids can learn about plant diversity.
Walk over to the garden, just nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Enjoy a Family Bike Ride on the National Mall

Rent bicycles and enjoy a leisure ride along the National Mall, taking in the sights at your own pace.
Head to a local rental shop or use the Capital Bikeshare program.
USD40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Paradiso

Cap the night off with a casual dinner at Pizzeria Paradiso and enjoy some of the best pizzas in D.C.
Head out to Dupont Circle for this family-friendly eatery.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Fun and Relaxation

Washington D.C., USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lazy Mike Café

Start the final day with a relaxed breakfast at the Lazy Mike Café, featuring delightful options for kids and adults alike.
Drive or take the Metro to this cozy café in Adams Morgan.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Discover the National Zoo

Excite the kids with a day at the National Zoo, home to giant pandas and a variety of other animals.
Take a short ride to the zoo in Woodland Park.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Coyote Ugly

Head to Coyote Ugly for a family-friendly lunch where you can enjoy American classics and vibrant atmosphere.
It's a short cab ride from the zoo.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visits Craig's List Water Sports

Have a fun afternoon filled with water sports including kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding at the Tidal Basin.
Head down to the Tidal Basin by taxi.
USD80 (includes rental fees), 2 hours

4:30PM

Ice Cream at Thomas Sweet

Treat the family with a sweet afternoon snack of homemade ice cream at Thomas Sweet nearby.
Best to walk or take a short taxi.
USD30, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Dinner at Ben's Chili Bowl

Conclude your trip with a classic D.C. experience at Ben’s Chili Bowl, famous for its chili dogs and unique dishes.
Take a short Uber to the restaurant.
USD50, 1 hour
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