#Things to do in Washington DC

[inboundremblog]

Best Things to Do in Washington, DC, with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities

Credit: Image by Tomasz Zielonka | Unsplash

Top 5 Must-Try Things to Do in Washington, DC, with Kids

Washington, DC, is so much more than the capital of the United States; it has a lot of history and fun and is a perfect destination for families with kids. It may surprise parents that there are many fun things for children to do in the capital. Here are five must-try things to do in Washington, DC, with kids, ranging from museums to outdoor experiences.

1. Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

One of the best things to do with kids in Washington, DC, is visiting the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. This museum is one of the many things that families should not miss out on. It showcases some of the most recognizable relics of aviators' history, such as the Wright Brothers' Flyer and the Apollo Mission Module.

Children will not want to leave the "How Things Fly" gallery, which is designed as an entertaining way to engage children with scientific principles of flight. If you are a little older, the museum has exciting opportunities to fly a spacecraft or a jet through the flight simulators.

It also has an IMAX theater where families can watch interesting movies about space and the natural world. Taking in an oldie-but-goodie at the cinema is the best—or the cheapest—way to do it: Admission is free!

It is suggested that children visit the places ahead of time without crowds; the walking tour helps them navigate the National Mall when they get tired and need to jump freely, taking in fresh air.

2. Explore the National Zoo

Another family attraction in DC worth mentioning is the Smithsonian National Zoo. One of the world's largest and most famous conservation organizations, this zoo hosts 2,700 animals from 396 species.

Kids would particularly love this zoo because the giant panda village is a frequent stopover. The Kids' Farm lets children get up close to tractors and interact with animals on the farm, while the Amazonia will give families the much-needed feel of the rainforest involving sloths and piranhas.

When you want to spend most of the day outside, the National Zoo is a suitable venue since the entrance fee is free. Remember to bring some food and drinks with you since the zoo is expensive and requires a lot of walking. It is essential to read the information on the map before visiting so that tourists can assess the time they will spend sightseeing.

3. Take a Ride on the DC Circulator to Explore Monuments

Visiting famous monuments in DC is also mandatory when traveling with the kids, and taking the Circulator bus is fun for everybody. This cost-effective guided shuttle tour covers all main attractions, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

Children will see the Statue of Freedom at the Lincoln Memorial and study more about Civil Rights through the quotes found at the monument for Martin Luther King Jr.

The National Mall route is incredibly comfortable for families because the stops are planned near numerous attractions. Carry comfortable shoes, especially for moving around between stops, and carry food for a mini picnic at any open Mall area.

4. Discover the International Spy Museum

If one wishes to get some thrill, no one can beat the International Spy Museum. The programs and most of this museum's exhibits are based on performing secret missions and using authentic spy equipment. One of the museum's main focus activities is Operation Spy, where the children must become secret spies and complete different tasks.

Even children will find it very interesting and informational, from button cameras to disguise kits and other spy tools that are exhibited there.

Kids between 7 years and above will enjoy games such as code-solving and functioning as spies for this museum. Tickets may not be free, but the only way to avoid long queues is to prepare in advance and book this ticket online.

5. Enjoy Outdoor Fun at the National Arboretum

National Arboretum is excellent for families who wish to spend their time away from the noise and crowds of the city staying in a vast territory. Spread across dozens of acres and accessible via a car or public transportation, this place is perfect for a family picnic.

There are designated walking paths, beautiful gardens, and photographed spots like the Capitol Columns. The Children's Garden offers an opportunity to learn about plants and gardening, mainly through direct experience.

They are entirely suitable for children's play while allowing them to tour the region's natural landscape, as in the case of the arboretum. Events like visiting the beautiful cherry blossoms or learning to plant one's garden during the right season add value.

This means there are so many things to see; therefore, you should plan your trip and the areas you wish to take your kids to so they won't get too bored.

Tips for Visiting Washington, DC, with Kids

When planning a family trip to Washington, DC, keeping the kids comfortable and engaged is essential. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience:

Choose Public Transportation

Washington, DC, is best navigated using the Metro and DC Circulator buses. These are cost-effective and convenient ways to hop between the city’s numerous attractions.

Pack Snacks and Water

Kids need regular snacks and hydration, especially when walking around and exploring all day. Pack light, healthy snacks like fruits, granola bars, and water bottles to keep their energy up without needing frequent stops.

Plan for Breaks

Sightseeing can be exhausting for young children. Plan your itinerary with plenty of short breaks at parks, cafes, or even resting spots near major landmarks where they can relax.

Visit Kid-Friendly Attractions

DC has numerous great attractions for kids, including the National Zoo, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and the National Air and Space Museum. These places are not only educational but also very engaging for young minds.

Stay Nearby

Consider booking accommodation close to the areas with the most attractions you plan to visit. This reduces transit time and gives you a quick fallback option for naps or unexpected needs.

It also helps to remain as close to the National Mall as possible to minimize traveling time.

That is why a family interested in spending their vacation enjoying and exploring exciting and entertaining activities will have ample substance in Washington, DC.

There's fun from the Smithsonian Museum complex, with hundreds of exhibits and collections, down to the rolling greens of the National Arboretum. These five must-do activities guarantee kids and parents the best time and learning fun in one of the greatest cities on earth.

Check our website at https://dcmetrocondos.com/washington-dc-things-to-do/ for more on the area.

Discover different things to do in Washington, DC with kids! Check out our guide to family-friendly attractions, events, and outdoor activities.

[graysengross]

Must-See Sights and Activities in Washington DC

Washington DC isn't just the political heart of the United States; it's a vibrant city brimming with culture, history, and countless activities. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the capital offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or outdoor enthusiast, Washington DC has something special for you.

Exploring the Historical Monuments

No visit to Washington DC is complete without touring its iconic monuments and memorials. The National Mall is a good starting point, where you can witness the grandeur of the Lincoln Memorial and the poignant World War II Memorial. Each monument tells a story, not just of the individuals they commemorate but of the nation's journey.

Discovering the Museums

Washington DC is home to the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. The Smithsonian offers a plethora of knowledge across its multiple branches, from the history of aviation at the National Air and Space Museum to the cultural exhibits at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

The Vibrant Arts Scene

The city's arts scene is as dynamic as its history. The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts hosts a wide range of performances, showcasing everything from ballet to jazz. Meanwhile, smaller galleries like the Phillips Collection offer a more intimate artistic experience with works from famous impressionists and modern artists.

Outdoor Activities and Green Spaces

Amidst the urban landscape, Washington DC boasts beautiful green spaces, providing a breath of fresh air. Rock Creek Park, one of the oldest national parks in the U.S., offers miles of trails, picnic areas, and even a planetarium. For a more structured outdoor experience, the United States Botanic Garden displays an impressive collection of plants and flowers in meticulously designed settings.

Culinary Delights and International Cuisine

Washington DC's food scene is a reflection of its diverse population. From high-end restaurants serving global cuisines to local eateries offering American classics, the city caters to all taste buds. Don't miss the chance to try some local blue crab, a staple in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Engaging in Political Discourse

As the nation's capital, Washington DC is the perfect place to engage with American politics. Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol, where you can learn about the legislative process and maybe even witness a live Congress session. For those interested in the judicial branch, visiting the Supreme Court offers insights into the legal backbone of the country.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

The city's calendar is packed with events and festivals throughout the year. One of the highlights is the National Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, where you can see the city transformed by blooming cherry trees. Other events, like the Fourth of July celebrations and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, offer unique experiences that are quintessentially Washington DC.

Conclusion

Things to do in Washington DC are as diverse and numerous as the city's residents. Whether you're looking to dive into the rich tapestry of America's history, engage with the arts, explore beautiful landscapes, or savor international flavors, Washington DC offers a rich palette of activities and sights. Plan your visit well, and you'll find that the nation's capital is a place of both monumental events and everyday pleasures, perfect for any traveler looking to enrich their experience.

[tripnomadic]

Discovering the Nation’s Capital: Washington, D.C.

Explore Things to Do in Washington DC iconic landmarks like the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and Smithsonian museums. Stroll through the National Mall, enjoy vibrant neighborhoods like Georgetown, savor diverse cuisine, and immerse in culture at the Kennedy Center. Don’t miss the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and the rich history throughout the year.

[thornescratch]

Delighted that the Caps decided to devote a highlight in the Carly1K vid to Rasmus Sandin sheepishly calling John Carlson to admit he got lost on the way to their community event together and is now headed towards Baltimore, and Carlson just laughing at him.

[mastersprogram]

Beetlejuice DC/pre broadway picture, Beej Wearing The Guide Hat ‼️

Found here thanks to @/beetlebitties2 Twitter!

[kaleidoscopiccc]

me when its a very big, very fraught, simple but its not, its a very big undertaking

[bpfile03-exe]

Trip Planning

So, I'm currently planning my trip to DC and I've heard many say it's a fun place to travel. I've exhausted tiktok and I can't seem to find much to do. I know that's a lie too, since places like DC thrive in the fall. Something about squeezing the life out of the last few good weather days makes the northeast amazing during the time.

I'm looking for all types of things to do, I take all suggestions. What I'd mostly love to do though:

Spas

Dinner (Non Italian)

Mini Golf/Arcade

Shopping (Clothing, Makeup, etc)

Afro Nightlife

Bookstores

I will note that my trip is in October, so if there are any Halloween themed things happening that would be so fun. I'm a very meticulous planner and always need some sort of base itinerary when I travel, hence the asking. I honestly can't wait to go. Thanks in advance!

-britt britt 🩷

[girlinthebrightbluejeans]

We made it! (Former) Washington Coliseum on the 60th anniversary of The Beatles first U.S. concert!

[cyarskaren52]

[mydarlingdahlia]

Beeg monument

[insectsinsects]

zoo day!!!!!

[sixty-silver-wishes]

🤔🤔🤔

Florida, ground-zero for book-banning and censorship, continues to fumble the point of books and reading with its recent decision to include Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice in a list of recommended books for reading about ‘American Pride.” The Department of Education’s inclusion of Austen’s 1813 novel comes with no explanation, excuse, or apparently abashedness.

[travelling-bird]

There is a lot to do and discover in the beautiful Washington state. Check out this travel guide to Washington to make the most of your trip.

[luveline]

i lowkey need to see stripper!reader and spencer again

for you gorgeous ♡ fem

cw adult themes

Hotch and Spencer draw attention at the strip club for the same reason but in varied fonts. They're both reminiscent of your regulars, Hotch the picture of a businessman with a wife to forget and steam to blow, and Spencer the silent sweetheart, pretty but too shy to talk to normal girls. 

He doesn't need a normal girl when he has you. 

You're glad for your cover up clothes as you lean against the dressing room door. One of the bouncers peers at you from the corner of his eye. 

"Trouble?" he asks. 

"Not sure. Probably not." You wave until Agent Hotchner notices you. To your delight, he raises his hand politely. 

You step around the bouncer and bypass the stage to the lighter area of the club where they stand in wait. "Hello. I could've met you outside." 

"Would you?" Agent Hotchner asks. 

You don't need him to explain. It's not the most professional thing, loitering in a club like this. You follow them out of the club and onto the street, cold even in your sweatpants as the wind rails. Spencer lets you squeeze his fingers in greeting, but that's all. 

"It's nice to see you again, Agent Hotchner," you say honestly, giving him a smile. 

He doesn't return the pleasantry, but Spencer swears he's softer than he looks so you choose to run with it as Agent Hotchner says, "We need information on one of your patrons." 

"Tennis Lawley," Spencer adds. 

"Tennis," you repeat. "I thought my pseudonym was bad."

Spencer gives you a quick look. I'd laugh if I weren't at work, it says. "We think he's involved in a string of killings in Washington DC. What do you know about him?" 

It's not an exaggeration to say you've played therapist for Tennis and a ton of guys just like him. Being a stripper, an exotic dancer, whatever anyone wants to call it (though Spencer usually just calls it your work) has pros and cons. You've felt it to be heavier on the con side, but this is a big plus, being able to assist someone you care about with something important. It makes you feel useful for once, like you're more than the froth of the city. "Ask me anything," you say, hiding your cheek from the cold with a deft hand. 

Spencer and Agent Hotchner ask you all sorts of questions, personal to their suspect and less so, and for the most part you're able to answer them. You can tell from the look on Hotchner's face that he's both surprised and extremely satisfied by your knowing, and he emphasises his thankfulness with a touch to your upper arm before he says goodbye. "Your help is invaluable, Y/N, thank you." 

Spencer, your sweetheart, stays for a more thorough farewell. 

"Have you eaten yet today?" he asks, the hand you'd squeezed earlier leaping for yours. "You look tired." 

"It's getting close to midnight, Spence. I'm alright. You and Agent Hotchner should head home and rest yourselves…" You bring your hand to his cheek but think better of yourself, pushing your arm over his shoulder instead for a hug. His own arms contract around you immediately. "I miss you lately, where have you been?" 

"Everywhere. I miss you too," he says. Despite the months of knowing one another, and the many states he's seen you in, you know without looking that Spencer is blushing profusely. 

You kiss his cheek as your heels return to safe ground. "Come and see me again soon, okay? And bring your rich friends. The older one, Rossi, is he really a millionaire? A divorced one?" 

"Yes, he is," Spencer says with a laugh, his voice climbing higher, "but I don't think he's looking for another wife right now, sorry." 

"Maybe Agent Hotchner–" 

"Stop calling him that." 

You look Spencer straight in the eye, nearly caught off guard by how sweet and soft they meld at your touch where your hands linger in his. 

You often think that you and Spencer aren't meant to be. Your life, whether willing or unwilling, by choice or design, is entirely focused around your body, and Spencer's world revolves around his mind. You know that what you do for work isn't anything to be ashamed of, but you have the same doubts as anyone else. You know what people think of you. You wouldn't blame Spencer for thinking the same things. And you wouldn't expect him to want to be with you in any aspect that wasn't physical. 

But when he holds your hands in his like this, as though they're made of something delicate, something he wants to map every detail or by fingertip alone, you wish things were different. 

You clear your throat. "I really do miss you when you're away," you confess. 

"I'm sorry." 

"Don't be." Your hands miss his the millisecond you pull them away. "I guess I shouldn't keep you. Your boss will be wondering where you are." 

"Are you okay?" 

You can't even pretend it's a strange question; you're acting strange. "I'm fine, Dr. Reid. My nice new boss knows I know the feds, and all the girls are jealous of me when you guys come to visit. They think I'm on your payroll." 

Spencer quirks a puzzled frown, brows pulled together tightly. "You're harder to read than most people. Have I ever told you that?" 

"I guess it's 'cos I spend so much time pretending I'm a different person," you say, smiling to prompt him into smiling back. 

"Maybe." He pulls his bag from where it rests against his hip and opens it, rummaging through the contents with a confused murmur until he pulls out the shape he'd been looking for. "Here. Don't go to bed hungry, okay?" 

Spencer puts a protein bar in your hand. 

He steals a quick hug and leaves not long after that, crossing the dark parking lot to the mass of the dark SUV he arrives in. With one hand, you clutch the protein bar until it takes a new shape, and with the other you blow two sweet kisses, a cheesy, gaudy gesture that never fails to make your favourite special Agent blush. 

[alienpossession]

Family Mission: The Backyard

"If you know what's best for you, you'll stay there and listen to me carefully. Again, you did not see me get inside his body so this might look like a silly air gun but I can promise you that you'l regret making any single move,"

Fearing for my life, I obviously followed my stepfather order, or whatever creature that reign over my stepfather's body. After all, the way my big bro just suddenly lose his consciousness mid-way playing game after my stepfather pointed and then shot the invisible air gun to him is enough to convince me that he's not playing around.

"Okay, now, since you've been seated comfortably, let me explain to you. I crash landed on your backyard earlier this morning and your father was making the whole thing difficult for me as he somehow spotted and snapped the pictures of me and my kind and even made some call to Washington DC, so we are compromised as we know it. Luckily, because he photographed us, we became aware of his.....awareness, if that's the word, and I decided to pay him a visit. He's physically here, but everything about him is.....me now. I'm in charge of his body and my fella is also in charge of your older brother. He's processing the whole thing now, hence the lost of consciousness, but he'll be fine....fine as in fine like me. Now, I know and your older brother know about your little alien wet dream sequence you wrote in your diary that you stupidly left in the study room for everyone to see. Your father, stepfather is obviously embarassed. Me on the other hand, well, I love all the fucked up sequences you came out with based on the memory reading I did, so here's what I offered you, collaborate with me to harbor my kind from the incoming investigator and you can live your dream with us, or you can try to run and I will definitely stuff someone from my kind inside of you. Up to you,"

"I....I will help you.....daddy,"

"Okay, stop. Don't be weird. You called me sir usually, so stick with that. And please, a boner? Are you kidding me?"

"Uhh...ohhh...okay sir. Sorry for making you uncomfortable,"

"Okay then, son, let's wake your brother up and clean up the mess in the backyard. Then, what do you think if we workout to the gym nearby?"

"Sounds like a solid plan....sir,"

As the three of them walked to the backyard to start cleaning the scene and take out the remaining aliens from the spaceship, the father said

"By the way, we also held 5 prisoners within our ship. They're criminals, the infected ones from our kind, maybe we can just expose them to the investigator, planting their dead form inside the spaceship? After all, not like our kind just visited Earth for the first time so our data probably already exist in your government's database,"

"Your lead, sir. You know what's best,"

"See, Griffin, be like your brother. More obedient and has more excitement about extraterrestrial life. If only you are like him, you'll not be braindead and taken over by now,"

"Stop making the nerd hard, dad,"

"Hahahahaha, I love the chemical reaction from this whole dynamic. The surge of anger and disgust that I instantly repressed and turned into excitement upon seeing him getting a boner when I talked like his dad but then twisted it into the most unhinged shit no normal human would ever say.....yeah, you should try it sometimes, Grif,"

With his cheek flushed in embarassment, Jerry meekly walk besides his possessed brother all the while looking at his father muscular back and ass that look just so perfect this morning. Maybe the alien inside make him look at his dad with different shades, but well, it's a welcomed change

[gghostwriter]

[Requests are closed]

Hi, you can call me Pau. I’m in my 20s and a self proclaimed spencer reid writer and a closeted aaron hotchner girl. My askbox is always open for questions and yapping.

Disclaimer: All one shots and requests are written in fem!reader but my two series are fem!oc

Most recent fic: Intruder’s Heist ↳ The inner musings of the amazing Mr Chewie, the good and the bad

One shots

Angst

Death of a Love Affair [sad] ↳ The three times you understood and the final time you couldn’t. Still Alive for My Lover [happy] ↳ The four times Spencer brushes with death and the fifth time he’s reborn to find his way back to you Dead Man Walking [sad] ↳ The three times memories of his broken promises plagued Spencer’s mind and the final time he’s faced with the consequences Poison Me, I'm Fine [sad] ↳ Your choice of poison was Spencer Reid. Who knew he would kill you and set you free in the process Knots of Yearning ↳ Spencer lies by omission or in which Spencer acts like he doesn’t know how to tie a tie just to get you to do it for him A Series of Happenstance ↳ The three times Spencer loathed to see you and the one time he pleaded to Three's a Sideshow ↳ Spencer misses an important date and ends up paying the consequences

Fluff

You’re the Risk, I’ll Take it ↳ The three times Spencer followed advice and the one time he didn't. Language of Devotion ↳ You caught Spencer learning a new skill—your native language One Single Thread of Gold ↳ The 3 times Penelope tries to solve a Spencer Reid riddle and the 1 time she (and the team) meet the reason behind all the changes. Camaraderie ↳ Spencer and some unwanted guests catch you singing at a bad time Wanted: A Gentleman ↳ Your lovely group of friends, Penelope, JJ, and Emily, set you up with your perfect match If You Love Me Right ↳ Emily asks an all important question regarding the next step of your relationship with Spencer Whispered Truths ↳ Your weekly reading club with boyfriend, Spencer Reid, has never been as sweet and life-changing as this night Lips of a Gentleman ↳ A spontaneous museum date alters your relationship with Spencer for the better The Language of Flowers ↳ Spencer prepares a personalized gift for his first date with you Level-One Intruder ↳ Spencer apprehends an unexpected but adorable trespasser Time Gave No Compass, Were There Clues? ↳ The three times fate brings you to cross paths with a certain handsome stranger and the one time he purposely crosses with yours Intruder’s Heist ↳ The inner musings of the amazing Mr Chewie, the good and the bad

Comfort

Deepest Fear ↳ Spencer wakes from a nightmare and you comfort him Out of Sunshine ↳ Having forgotten your dinner date, Spencer comforts his usually sunshine girlfriend Have Your Cake ↳ Spencer notices a change in you that he tries to address Time is a Fickle Thing ↳ Spencer realizes how important it is to occupy the present and be active in the little things

Mini Series

A Series of Happenstance [1] ↳ Spencer Reid x House!Daughter!Reader One Single Thread of Gold [1] [2] ↳ Spencer Reid x Fashion!Reader

Series

Entangled Strings of Fate - Fem!OC x Spencer [ongoing] Caltech, Pasadena - Cleo considers herself a woman of logic With an IQ of 158 and an eidetic memory, how could she not. But meeting Spencer, the boy genius to hers, had her believing in intangible theories like the invisible string and the fates itself. Now, if only he would notice the depth of her feelings. Trope - Friends to Lovers; Eventual Romance Last update - Sept 26 [chapter 8] ; Next update - tba

Yours Truly, Romeo - Fem!OC x Spencer [finished] Washington, DC - A string of grizzly murders and obsessive love letters causes Olivia and Spencer’s paths to intertwine. With a serial killer proclaiming his undying devotion to her and the thick tension surrounding her and her agent turned bodyguard, Olivia’s life is writing out like a contemporary love story that she, as a successful writer, could see herself publishing. Trope - Strangers to Lovers, Mystery, Romance

Requests.

💗 fluff || 💥 angst || 💧hurt/comfort

Hallucinate 💗 ↳ Spencer gets in one accident and thinks you are more than a friend. He believes you're his wife. Blackout 💗 ↳ Spencer finds you passed out on the bathroom floor Phantasmagoria 💗 ↳ Due to an injury, you mistakenly believe Spencer's your husband Birds of a Feather 💗 ↳ Spencer catches you drawing him and he shyly poses for it Bundle of Nerves 💗 ↳ You pass out during work hours and Spencer worriedly rushes to see you Ice Princess 💗 ↳ You take down an unsub and the team finds out a truth about you Sentencing 💗💧 ↳ Spencer (and team) support you during a court hearing His 💗💥 ↳ You visit Spencer in prison and he reacts to the lewd remarks thrown your way Cherished 💗 ↳ Spencer arrives home to a very sweet surprise Down Under 💗 ↳ Spencer questions your colorful vocabulary and it's meaning Cocoa Powder 💗 ↳ While Spencer is in prison, you discover a secret Eden 💗 💥 ↳ Spencer worries for his roommate [based on 'Eden' by Hozier] Curveball 💗 ↳ Spencer proposes in the middle of chasing an unsub Special Diet 💗 ↳ You, a certified wine connoisseur, say no to a glass of wine and in which the team reacts to Rewriting History 💗 💥 ↳ Spencer takes you as his date to his high school reunion In the Ether 💗 ↳ You and Spencer frolic in the countryside fields Lightweight 💗 ↳ Spencer introduces you, a professional wrestler, to his found family