In Washington DC, it's not a question of where to take the kids, but how to narrow down the choices. It's filled with opportunities to learn about history, nature, science or just have fun. Many top attractions are within walking distance of each other, and public transportation makes getting around affordable and convenient.
Better known as the National Zoo, this popular Washington site is free and open every day of the year except Christmas. It's home to 2,000 animals from 400 species, with 20 percent on the threatened or endangered species list. Kids can see their favorite stuffed animals in the flesh, such as the Giant Pandas or bears and tigers. The Kids Farm features barnyard denizens such as cows, pigs, goats and donkeys. From April to October, the animal exhibits are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from November through March. Parking is limited, so visitors are encouraged to take the Metro.
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
3001 Connecticut Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20008
202-633-4800
nationalzoo.si.edu
The National Aquarium houses 250 species with 1,500 specimens. Kids can view sharks, piranhas, alligators and other creatures of the deep up close and personal. The collection includes not just freshwater and marine fish but reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Open every day with the exception of Christmas and Thanksgiving, daily feedings and aquarist talks occur daily at 2 p.m. The National Aquarium is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admissions at 4:30 p.m. The basic tour takes approximately 45 minutes.
National Aquarium
Commerce Building
14th and Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20230
202-482-2825
nationalaquarium.org
There's so much for kids to see at the 19 national museums. Kid-friendly exhibits abound, including the Discovery Theater, with live performances, and the IMAX Theater at the National Museum of American History. If the kids like dinosaurs, visit the mounted skeleton exhibit. If outer space sparks interest, there's the Einstein Planetarium. It's safe to assume that the Smithsonian holds a subject of interest for every child. All museums open daily except Christmas, with free admission. Opening and closing times vary with each museum.
Smithsonian
SI Building,
Washington, DC 20013
202-633-1000
si.edu
