Conquering DC With Kids: A Three-Day Itinerary

Morning:

• Fuel Up at Toastique (The Wharf)

Start your trip with fresh smoothies and fun toast creations. Parents, grab your much-needed coffee and get ready to conquer the capital!

• Monument Tour by Bike or Pedicab

See DC’s legendary landmarks in a fun way! Cruise from the Lincoln Memorial to the WWII Memorial (summer splash zone!) and MLK Jr. Memorial, ending with a quick family photo at the White House.

• Pro Tip: Rent from Capital Bikeshare with kids’ seats or book a guided pedicab tour so everyone enjoys the ride.

Lunch:

• Grab quick bites from National Mall food trucks or head to Mitsitam Café at the National Museum of the American Indian for native-inspired dishes that are both tasty and educational.

Afternoon:

• Smithsonian Museum of Natural History

FREE, fun, and full of wonder! Kids can:

• Marvel at towering dinosaurs

• Explore the Insect Zoo

• Play and learn in the hands-on Discovery Room

• Don’t miss a spin on the National Carousel, a classic Mall must-do!

Evening:

• Dinner at Hank’s Oyster Bar (The Wharf)

Seafood favorites for the grown-ups, comforting kid-friendly picks, and a relaxed waterfront vibe.

• Evening Stroll at The Wharf

Let the kids run, grab a scoop of ice cream, and enjoy live music or cozy firepits with views of the water. You may even catch a kid-friendly performance or a glowing sunset!

Morning to Midday:

• Ahoy, Matey! Georgetown Pirate Ship Cruise

Hop aboard the Boomerang Pirate Ship and set sail for adventure! Water cannons, treasure hunts, silly songs, and crew training make this 45-minute cruise a total hit with kids ages three through 10.

• Boards at the Georgetown Waterfront

• Book in advance

• Brunch at Farmers Fishers Bakers

Just steps from the dock, this riverfront spot has epic brunch spreads and treats the whole family will love.

Afternoon:

• Smithsonian’s National Zoo (FREE!)

Stroll past world-famous giant pandas, roaring lions in the Great Cats exhibit, the splashy Amazonia rainforest, and the adorable Kids’ Farm.

• Pro Tip: Start at the upper entrance and meander downhill for an easier route with strollers.

Evening:

• Dinner at Duke’s Counter

Located right across from the zoo, this casual eatery serves flavorful dishes kids can devour happily.

• Optional Chill-Out Time

Head back to your hotel or enjoy another cozy night around the firepits and fountains at The Wharf.

Morning:

• Grab a sweet start from District Doughnut at The Wharf or enjoy breakfast at your hotel.

• Visit Mount Vernon, George Washington’s Home

Take a short 30–40 minute drive to Mount Vernon, where history jumps off the page and into real life:

• Tour George Washington’s mansion

• Explore the Interactive Education Center with touchscreens and activities

• Visit the working farm with animals and demonstrations

• Walk to the scenic Potomac overlook and snap family pics among the gardens

Lunch:

• Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant

Old-world style comfort food served with charm. There’s even a kids’ menu!

Afternoon: Old Town Alexandria

• A short Uber or taxi ride from Mount Vernon lands you in one of America’s most charming towns.

Why you’ll love it:

• Steeped in history: Founded in 1749, this was George Washington’s hometown and a key colonial port.

Family highlights:

• Torpedo Factory Art Center: Walk through working artist studios and watch creativity in action.

• King Street Trolley: Free, fun, and a perfect way to cruise through town.

• Waterfront Park: Great views, sculptures, and space to play.

• Lyceum Museum: Compact, hands-on history spot kids will enjoy.

Shopping and treats:

• Quaint local shops offer everything from books and toys to decor and gourmet finds.

• Pop’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream: A perfect pit stop for something sweet.

Dinner:

• Virtue Feed & Grain

Cozy up in this converted feed house-turned-favorite family tavern. Hearty fare, cool history, and laid-back vibes.

Evening:

• Head back to DC for a low-key hotel evening. Swim, play a board game, or start planning your next visit!