Curator’s statement
I love exploring DC with my two toddlers, but some activities, restaurants and experiences are better suited for families traveling with younger kids than others. Luckily, DC is a very walkable, stroller-friendly city with lots to do both outdoors and indoors... including many free activities so you don't feel like you're wasting money if your toddler is ready to move on to the next thing. DC also has a variety of cuisines and dining options, so whether you (or should I say, your toddler) prefer an upscale food hall, local fast-casual hot spot or a trendy restaurant, you'll find plenty of restaurants to choose from.
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Things to do in Washington DC
Best Museums for Toddlers
Planet Word
Planet Word is a surprisingly fun museum experience for kids of all ages, even little ones who are just starting to learn to express themselves.
National Children's Museum
A great option for an air-conditioned indoor play area.
Artechouse
An interactive 3D art exhibit that absolutely mesmerizes adults and kids alike.
Natural History Museum
This is for animal and plant-loving kiddos. The Butterfly Pavilion is a highlight.
National Air + Space Museum
Are still undergoing some renovations, but it's an impressive spot and easy to navigate with a stroller.
Best Outdoor Activities for Toddlers
Walk around the monuments. DC has so much green space around the National Mall to run around and explore. Adults can enjoy visiting and reading about different monuments while your little one has room to roam.
Catch an outdoor concert at the Wharf or Navy Yard. You'll find live music most nights of the week during the summer. It's great (free) entertainment!
Walk through Georgetown. The streets are so quaint, there are plenty of spots to stop for coffee and food, and there's a fun little playground called Volta Street Playground with picnic tables where you can eat your bagels from Call Your Mother.
DC Walking Museum of Transportation is an outdoor walking path with life-size elements of transportation. A dream walk for a bus-loving toddler!
Places to eat & drink in Washington DC
When it comes to meals, your most enjoyable experience will either be at delicious fast-casual restaurants or nicer restaurants that are extra accommodating to families.
Breakfast
Call Your Mother (Georgetown/Capitol Hill/Dupont Circle) for the best bagels in DC.
Slipstream (multiple locations)
Emissary (Dupont Circle) for delicious lattes and healthy breakfast options.
St. Anselm (NoMa) for everything, but especially the biscuits.
Lunch
Yellow (Georgetown) for coffee and the chicken shawarma pita.
Colada Shop (the Wharf) for the Cubano sandwich.
Compliments Only (Dupont Circle) for fresh, filling subs.
Dinner
Union Market (NoMa) for the diversity of cuisines and relaxed vibe.
Osteria Morini (Navy Yard) for the brown butter gnocchi overlooking the water.
Andy's Pizza (multiple locations) for wood-fired pizza.
Emmy Squared (Navy Yard/Shaw) for Detroit-style square pizza.
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Travel Advisor
Anna Tretter
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 3 Alcohol-Free Days in Napa Valley.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Washington DC.