Washington, D.C., is a perennial family travel favorite, and for good reason — the history, culture and sheer number of things to do make a trip to the nation’s capital a nearly obligatory American pilgrimage.
But at the same time, the traffic and vast size of the “DMV” (District-Maryland-Virginia) — as it’s often called — can seem daunting to those tackling it with kids. Here are the top ways to make the most of a trip to D.C. and ensure a memorable experience for all ages.
Stay at The Wharf
When it comes to traveling with children, accessibility is key, whether your clients are searching for a great place to eat, a friendly lobby to take a load off or a changing station for a cranky baby.
The Wharf D.C. serves as a vibrant launching pad for families exploring the city’s many family-friendly activities. Its southeast location on the Potomac River and proximity to public transportation make it an accessible and walkable hub, and its scenic promenades and amenities set the stage for an unforgettable visit to the capital. There are more than 80 restaurants and shops in the neighborhood, as well as a variety of hotels, including InterContinental Washington D.C. — The Wharf. The elegant and modern property has a rooftop pool that my son loved, and many of the guestrooms overlook the Potomac and the bustling walkway below.
Use the Free Southwest Shuttle to Access Smithsonian Museums
When it’s time to head out to, say, the National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of African American History and Culture, clients can swap a rental car for the Southwest Shuttle. This free, public and ADA-compliant bus (which means big enough to load on a double stroller) carries travelers from The Wharf to the National Mall from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every weekday, making it easy for little feet to pound the pavement in search of arts and culture.
Captain Your Own Vessel on the Potomac
Seeing D.C. from the water is a truly incredible enterprise that any child will appreciate. But travelers don’t need a boat license to take to the Potomac. Instead, head to the Wharf Navy Yard and rent a GoBoat (drivers must be 21 or older), an electric vessel that can accommodate up to eight passengers. After a brief tutorial, clients can putter at 3 to 4 knots along one of the most famous rivers in the world. With my husband as captain at the helm, we tooled around on the water for an hour with friends — and my then 8-year-old said it was one of the highlights of our trip.
Channel 007 at the International Spy Museum
Blending the shadowy intrigue of covert operations with the boundless creativity of storytelling is D.C.’s International Spy Museum, an absolute must for parents of children ages 7 to 18. Families are introduced to the world of secret stealing and they also get to play a role in an interactive story that moves them through the five-story building. My son raved about seeing a Trabant, the quintessential Cold War car, and learned how to identify propaganda. It’s as much fun for kids as it is adults, all of whom will likely leave reconsidering an assignment with the Central Intelligence Agency.
Play the Country's Oldest Miniature Golf Course
D.C. has loads of historic sites, but one of the quirkiest and perhaps most kid-friendly is the Miniature Golf Course at East Potomac Golf Links, the oldest continuously operating miniature golf course in the nation. Built in 1931, it’s famous for its tiny replica obstacles that depict the Capitol, Mount Vernon and the White House. After a much-needed rehabilitation last year, the course reopened in fall 2024. Because it’s such a delicate course, visitors do need to book a tee time, and there’s a $15 fee for play.
Pose With Historical Figures
You can’t go to D.C. and not take children to see its famous monuments. Make sure clients wear their sneakers and take the shuttle to the National Mall. Morning is the best time to go, as the crowds are thinner and the air is cooler. Heading west, visitors can take their time exploring the Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial and Lincoln Memorial.
Catch an Open-Air Concert
Every Wednesday from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Wharf’s Transit Pier hosts free outdoor concerts — the perfect space to let kids boogie without the fear of any eye rolls. In fact, the series is so laid-back, dogs are equally as welcome. Every concert begins at 7 p.m., but it’s important to note that bench seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where to Eat
There is no shortage of great dining options in D.C., but clients staying in the Wharf area will do well to check out Mi Vida, a lively Mexican restaurant from culinary director and co-owner Roberto Santibanez (of chef/New York’s Fonda restaurants fame). While there is no kids' menu, the offerings are vast and the staff is eager to assist, be it with a simple plate of beans, rice and a taco or a full platter of enchiladas suizas (corn tortillas usually stuffed with chicken and topped with a creamy green sauce), depending on how adventurous the family's younger eaters are. If the crew needs more incentive, consider that The Wharf has not only a Kilwins ice cream shop, but also a Ben & Jerry’s and a Pitango gelato outlet.
