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9-Day Family Friendly Road Trip in Washington DC

Viewed by 307 travelers

Day 1: Explore the Capital

Washington DC, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring farm-to-table dishes in a family-friendly environment.
Located at 1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW, just a short drive from your hotel.
USD30, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the National Mall

Stroll through the iconic National Mall and take in the stunning views of monuments like the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.
Parking available nearby or consider using the DC Circulator bus.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The American Grill

Enjoy delicious American cuisine and kid-friendly options just steps away from the mall.
Within walking distance from the National Mall.
USD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Discover fascinating exhibits about the natural world, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Both in proximity to lunch location and well-signposted.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pi Pizzeria

Wrap up your day with delicious deep-dish pizza that the whole family will love.
Located at 910 R St NW, accessible via car or rideshare.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: History and Discovery

Washington DC, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Old Ebbitt Grill

Indulge in a classic D.C. breakfast in a historic setting.
Located at 675 15th St NW, a short drive from your hotel.
USD45, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the National Archives

See the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, something the whole family can appreciate.
Located near the National Mall.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Wharf

This vibrant waterfront area offers a variety of family-friendly dining options.
A short drive or a 20-min walk from the National Archives.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the National Air and Space Museum

A must-see! Kids and parents can explore the wonders of flight and space.
A short distance from your lunch spot.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Jaleo

Savor delicious Spanish tapas in a fun and family-friendly atmosphere.
Located at 480 7th St NW, easy parking available.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature and Fun

Washington DC, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Busboys and Poets

Enjoy a diverse menu with healthy options in a cozy setting.
Check out the location at 2021 14th St NW in U Street Corridor.
USD50, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the National Zoo

Spend the morning at the National Zoo, famous for its giant pandas and engaging exhibits.
Accessible by public transport or car, offering ample parking.
Free, 3.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Capital Grille

Experience a sophisticated dining experience with excellent options for kids.
Located in the Penn Quarter, a short drive from the zoo.
USD90, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the National Gallery of Art

Immerse your family in the world of art with a children-friendly atmosphere.
Near the National Mall, easy to find.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Burger

Indulge in gourmet burgers perfect for little ones and adults alike.
Conveniently located in the same area.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Experience

Arlington, VA, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Silver Diner

Get your day started with a classic diner breakfast full of options for every palate.
Located at 5 Army Navy Dr, in Arlington.
USD40, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Arlington National Cemetery

Honor the past by visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and further memorials.
Just a 10-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Continental

Take in American cuisine and stylish vibes in this family-friendly restaurant.
Located near the cemetery.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial

Snap iconic pictures of the famous flag-raising statue of the Marines.
A quick drive from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Clarendon

Enjoy shopping and outdoor playgrounds for kids - perfect for winding down.
Short drive from the memorial.
Free to explore, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Tuscarora Mill

End your day with outstanding American fare in a charming restaurant.
Nearby in Arlington, accessible via car.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Historic Alexandria

Alexandria, VA, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Town Restaurant

Known for their scrumptious pancakes and breakfast classics.
Located along King St, right in Old Town Alexandria.
USD45, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Old Town Alexandria

Stroll through cobblestone streets full of boutiques, cafes, and historical sites.
Walking distance from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fish Market

Enjoy fresh seafood in a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for families.
A short walk from Old Town.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center

Engage with local artists and see unique works being created.
At the waterfront, nearby lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Landini Brothers

Dine at this Italian restaurant known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Located in Old Town, convenient for your evening plans.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Monuments and More

National Mall, DC, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Hamilton

Fuel up for a busy day with a variety of breakfast options in the heart of D.C.
A short drive or walk from your accommodation.
USD50, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Lincoln Memorial

The ultimate spot for a family photo and to reflect on history.
Located at the western end of the National Mall.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Smith

Enjoy a delicious meal with a lively ambiance that welcomes families.
Located nearby, just a quick drive.
USD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the World War II Memorial

Reflect on the sacrifices made during the war in this stunning memorial.
A short walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

See the inspiring statue and learn about MLK’s impactful legacy.
Nearby the WW2 Memorial.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Savor an exquisite dining experience with choices for every member of the family.
Conveniently located near the memorials.
USD90, 2 hours
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Day 7: Day at Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, VA, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Mt. Vernon Inn Restaurant

Dine at this charming restaurant before exploring George Washington's estate.
Located within the Mount Vernon estate.
USD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore George Washington's Mount Vernon

Take a tour of the estate, the museum, and the beautiful gardens.
Already in Mount Vernon, just walk around.
USD28 for adults; USD14 for kids, 3.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant

Enjoy lunch with more colonial-style fare suitable for all ages.
Settle back into the restaurant conveniently located on the estate.
USD60, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Potomac River

Take a relaxing stroll along the historic Potomac River to wind down your visit.
Walking distance from the estate.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Gadsby's Tavern

Experience an 18th-century tavern with a family-friendly menu in Alexandria.
A short drive to Old Town after your Mount Vernon visit.
USD75, 2 hours
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Day 8: Day Trip to Baltimore

Baltimore, MD, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Miss Shirley's Cafe

Gather for a brilliantly creative breakfast in a family-friendly atmosphere.
A quick drive from Washington, DC - about 1 hour.
USD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the National Aquarium

Enjoy a day filled with fascinating aquatic life—a must-see for the kids!
Located at 501 E Pratt St in Baltimore.
USD40 for adults; USD30 for kids, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Phillips Seafood

Family-style dining with tasty seafood options.
Located nearby, just a short drive.
USD80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Baltimore Inner Harbor

Stretch your legs along the waterfront and enjoy fun activities for families.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Wrap up your Baltimore trip with a delightful meal suitable for the whole family.
Located at the Inner Harbor.
USD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Final Day Reflections

Washington DC, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Blackbird Coffee

Enjoy coffee and pastries in this cozy cafe to reflect on your trip.
Located near your accommodation.
USD25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the National Landscape Arboretum

Explore beautiful gardens and nature trails, a peaceful concluding day.
A 15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Arboretum Café

Relax with light snacks and meals, perfect after your botanical explorations.
Located on-site.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Free Time at the Park

Spend your afternoon at a local park, allowing the kids to play and run freely.
Driving distance from the Arboretum.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Occidental

Indulge in an elegant meal reflecting on your amazing trip through D.C.
Located near the White House.
USD120, 2 hours
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