Washington

Washington, D.C. is a fantastic city for families, and there’s so much to see and do, especially with little ones in tow. Here’s a fun and engaging 2-day itinerary that balances sightseeing with kid-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Exploring the National Mall

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Founding Farmers. They have a great kids' menu and delicious pancakes that your little ones will love!
• National Air and Space Museum: After breakfast, head to the National Air and Space Museum. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike! The exhibits are fascinating, and there are plenty of interactive displays. Don’t miss the “How Things Fly” area where your girls can engage with hands-on activities.

Lunch:

• Grab a quick lunch at the museum café or pack a picnic to enjoy on the National Mall. There are plenty of grassy spots where the kids can run around a bit!

Afternoon:

• National Museum of Natural History: After lunch, stroll over to the National Museum of Natural History. The dinosaur exhibits and the Hope Diamond are sure to captivate your daughters. Plus, there’s a butterfly pavilion (seasonal) that’s magical for little ones!
• Smithsonian Gardens: If the weather is nice, take a leisurely walk through the Smithsonian Gardens. The Enid A. Haupt Garden is particularly lovely and has plenty of space for the kids to explore.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to Old Ebbitt Grill for a family-friendly dinner. They have a great atmosphere and a menu that caters to all tastes.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll to see the Lincoln Memorial and the Reflecting Pool. The monuments are beautifully lit at night, and it’s a peaceful way to end your day.

Day 2: Fun and Learning

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day at The Smith in Penn Quarter. They have a fantastic breakfast menu, and the atmosphere is vibrant!
• National Zoo: After breakfast, head to the Smithsonian National Zoo. It’s free and has a wonderful variety of animals. The giant pandas are a must-see, and there are plenty of exhibits that will keep your kids entertained.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at the zoo’s Café or pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the zoo’s lovely green spaces.

Afternoon:

• U.S. Botanic Garden: After the zoo, take a short trip to the U.S. Botanic Garden. The conservatory is like stepping into a magical world of plants, and the outdoor gardens are perfect for little explorers.
• Capitol Hill: If time allows, take a stroll around the Capitol Building. The grounds are beautiful, and there’s plenty of space for the kids to run around.

Evening:

• Dinner: For your last dinner in D.C., consider Carmine’s in the Penn Quarter. It’s family-style Italian, so you can order big plates to share, which is perfect for kids!
• Ice Cream Treat: End your trip with a sweet treat at Georgetown Cupcake or Thomas Sweet for some delicious ice cream or cupcakes. It’s a fun way to wrap up your D.C. adventure!

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider using the Metro for easy travel around the city. It’s convenient and can be an adventure in itself for the kids!
• Stroller: If your little ones get tired, a stroller can be a lifesaver, especially for the longer walks around the National Mall.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Washington, D.C. with your family! Enjoy every moment! 🌟