Headed to the nation’s capital this summer with the family? Here are six great family-friendly things to do on your next trip to D.C.
National Zoo
You can’t go wrong with a visit to the National Zoo. More than 400 different species of animals keep the kids entertained all day long, but you’ll find it’s the panda exhibit that draws the most ooh-ing and ahh-ing from the little ones. The best part? This Smithsonian attraction is free to visit.
Discovery Theater
Another Smithsonian spot, the Discovery Theater offers live performances for families. You and the kids can take in the arts with dancers, mimes, musicians and storytellers taking the stage every day. Performances are held on the National Mall and throughout the city.
National Air and Space Museum
The National Air and Space Museum offers the world’s largest collection of air and spacecraft. Take in a show at the IMAX theater or planetarium and wander the dozens of larger-than-life exhibits showcasing the country’s aerial history. Just outside of D.C., you can visit the museum’s sister location, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, where the Discovery Space Shuttle has been on display since early 2013.
National Children’s Museum
Opened in December 2012, the National Children’s Museum offers fun exhibits for toddlers and the three-and-over crowd. The three-and-under section offers creative and interactive ways for children to learn through play, and a healthy dose of Sesame Street-themed offerings keep the tots entertained. For little ones over the age of three, the Our World section focuses on developing a child’s curiosity for the world around us by focusing on world cultures, maps and communities. In spring 2014, an outdoor experience will add to the family-friendly fun at the National Children’s Museum.
Glen Echo Park
Maryland’s Glen Echo Park is run by the National Park Service, but it isn’t exactly what you’d expect from a National Park. This Maryland park focuses on the creative arts and culture. Kids can take dance classes, learn about music or even take a Claymation workshop, and the entire family will enjoy a ride on the park’s iconic carousel.
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