Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is filled with countless historical attractions, such as the White House, the Capitol Building, Washington Monument, Arlington Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. When visiting the area with younger children, be sure to go to a few venues that they will appeal to them more -- while still learning educational and historical facts -- such as museums, parks and zoos.
Kids will enjoy visiting the National Zoo, which is open year-round except for Christmas day. The zoo has free admission and features over 2,000 animals in over 400 different species. Popular exhibits include animals, such as giant pandas, cheetahs, elephants, octopus, various primates and much more. Convenient amenities for visitors, such as restaurants, snack stands, gift shops and stroller rental are available throughout the park.
National Zoo
3001 Connecticut Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20008
202-633-4800
nationalzoo.si.edu
The National Aquarium, home to over 250 species of animals, is open year-round except Thanksgiving and Christmas day. The aquarium features unique animals, such as eels, piranhas, alligators and sharks, that kids are sure to enjoy seeing up close. The facility has numerous exhibits, galleries, tours, lectures and animal feedings for visitor entertainment.
National Aquarium
1401 Constitution Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20230
202-482-2826
nationalaquarium.org
Rock Creek Park is open year-round -- during daylight hours -- and features a planetarium, an amphitheater, nature center and numerous programs led by park rangers. Children's activities in the park include free summer camps to become junior ranger, hiking, crafts and animal shows.
Rock Creek Park
3545 Williamsburg Ln. NW
Washington, DC 20008
202-895-6070
nps.gov/rocr
Take your little sleuth for a visit to the International Spy Museum and partake in spy camps, workshops, mystery demonstrations, spy magic shows and a variety of spy-related exhibits and collections. The museum is open year-round except Thanksgiving and Christmas day and features several restaurants, gift shops and group tours.
International Spy Museum
800 F St. NW
Washington, DC 20004
202-393-7798
spymuseum.org
Kids of all ages will enjoy seeing Washington, D.C. by land and by sea on a unique tour with DC Ducks. Passengers will go on a 90-minute excursion around the city streets and then down the Potomac River in fully-restored WWII amphibious vehicle. Tours run from mid-March through October and all tours are fully narrated by the "quacking" captain as he entertains passengers with historical facts, corny jokes and funny stories.
DC Ducks Tours
Union Station
Washington, D.C. 20018
800-213-2474
dcducks.com
