Family Staycation Ideas Around Washington, DC

christadiserio said:  When it's nice outside, pack up a blanket, a picnic basket, and a soccer ball to head on over to the National Mall. There's nothing more electrifying than sitting with your family on the beautiful Mall, people watching and seeing the historic landmarks around you. Over lunch, talk to the kids about all the history our nation's capital holds and then have a little family fun kicking a soccer ball around on the green grass. On a nice afternoon, you'll catch others doing the same!

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  While the history might sound boring to some kids, the Smithsonian National Museum of American History makes this trip through America's history fun! Here you'll get to see the Star-Spangled Banner (the flag that inspired the national anthem), the original ruby red slippers that Dorothy wore in the Wizard of Oz, Julia Child's Kitchen (and a smaller version for kids to play in), Abraham Lincoln's top hat, & so much more. Make sure to ask staff about the kids' programs of the day & visit the Spark!Lab, where kids become inventors. This museum's a must-visit for all, so don't miss out!

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  What's more entertaining than seeing millions of dollars being printed right before your eyes? The answer is not much, so go take a tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. This 40-minute tour will teach you and the family everything you need to know about U.S. paper currency. You'll actually get to see how the money is printed, stacked, cut and then examined for any defects. Your kids will be impressed! To book your tour, contact your local U.S. senator or representative.

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  You could take a week to view all of the natural wonders in this natural history museum that houses the Hope Diamond, a room with live butterflies, and even a live coral reef. The museum's collection of gigantic dinosaur skeletons, human remains, fossils, meteorites and more is nothing short of impressive.

christadiserio said:  Has your family dreamed of meeting former presidents, first ladies, and A-list celebrities? A visit Madame Tussaud's is the closest you'll get until that dream becomes reality - so live it out here. At this famous wax museum, you'll get to meet Barack Obama, George Washington, Nancy Reagan, Taylor Swift, Marvin Gaye and so many others. Your kids will have a blast taking selfies with all of these realistic-looking wax figures, joking and fooling all of their friends!

Cost: $20 (adults) and $16 (ages 3-12)

christadiserio said:  Has your kid ever wondered what it's like to be a spy? Then your family must visit the International Spy Museum, where your child will get to feel like a real-life spy for the day. They will get to experience the journey of all spies through real spies'' journeys, adopt a cover identity, attend spy school, and learn about the intelligence challenges of today. Your family will love all the interactive experiences here!

Ages: 7+

Cost: $20.95 (adults) and $14.95 (ages 7-11)

christadiserio said:  The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum houses thousands of the most noteworthy objects in air and space history. While your kids may have already learned about the Wright Flyer in school, they'll actually get to see it (and other historic objects) in person at this museum. Think objects, such as those from Apollo 13, famous spacesuits, special engines and others. All families will enjoy the 22 exhibitions, science demonstrations, a jet simulator, story time and so much more.

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  Learning about the history of journalism couldn't be more interesting or interactive here at the Newseum. Your family will get to see front pages of newspapers on that given day from around the world, learn about American news icons, like Gloria Steinman, see a large piece of the Berlin Wall and experience an incredibly moving news gallery from September, 11, 2001. Additionally, kids will even get to explore a satellite truck used for live broadcasts and practice being a reporter - microphone, teleprompter and all!

Cost: $24.95 (Adults) and $14.95 (youth 7-18)

christadiserio said:  Put on your construction hats as you enter the National Building Museum and explore this incredible museum about architecture, design, engineering, construction and urban planning. Not to mention, the museum itself, is just captivating. Kids will have the opportunity learn exactly what it takes for an engineer to construct such a beautiful building by building an arch using blocks or build a LEGO wall and play with construction trucks in the Building Zone.

christadiserio said:  As one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America, the U.S. Botanic Garden is rich with history, tradition and beauty. You and the kids will thoroughly enjoy learning about rare and endangered plants, everyday plants and beautiful new blooms. Kids even have the opportunity of exploring this new world of plants through the Children's Garden, where they can play with gardening tools and can gently handle plants in bloom. This is the perfect outing for kids who are curious about nature!

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  The National Postal Museum is a gem - you need to make sure you don't overlook this museum because it's one the whole family will enjoy. First thing's first - print out this scavenger hunt to put a new spin on a museum visit for your kids. Secondly, your family will be amazed by the history of the United States Postal System, as they learn all about stamp collecting, how letters make it from point A to point B, and how this system affects lives everywhere. Your children can even experience what it's like being a postal worker!

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  What if a superior ice skating experience could be combined with some of the best views of the nation's capital and wrapped up in a pretty red bow? That's exactly what you'll find at The Watergate Hotel's "winter wonderland," where guests and local will be wow-ed by the rooftop synthetic ice rink setting with spectacular 360-degree views of the city. Adults can also enjoy some winter cocktails and kids will love the hot chocolate.

Cost: $10/child (ages 5-12) & $20/adult

Opens mid-November

Lisa R said:  Opened in 1908 is one of the earliest and greatest railroad stations in the United States. Today the historically and architecturally significant building serves as a transit hub for Washington, D.C. and indoor shopping center. The restored building is a marvel any day of the year, however kids particularly love visiting during the holidays when a large model train exhibit can be found in the main hall. Be sure to check the Union Station events page to find out the dates for special displays and seasonal store events to get the most out of your visit.

Age: All

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  If you and your family are the outdoorsy type, then a hike around Roosevelt Island will suit your fancy. This uncomplicated two-mile loop is perfect for kids and will have some brief history signs throughout. Everyone will be close to nature along these forest-y trails. You'll also love views of Georgetown, overall D.C. and all of the people in canoes along the water. Finally, at the end of the trail, you'll meet the Theodore Roosevelt Monument - the very man whose legacy is honored by this incredible island.

Pro tip: Download a trail map before you embark on your journey.

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  Escape the action of the city and go on a hike with the family at Rock Creek Park. This 1,754 acre park is complete with beautiful trees, wild animals, and is somewhere where you'll experience pure bliss. After the hike, you and the kids can explore the Nature Center, where you'll learn about the many plants an animals living within the park, and visit the Planetarium. Last but not least, you can even get a stamp for your National Park Passport here and go on a fun Discovery Hunt. Exploring has never been so fun.

Cost: Free

Erin P. said:  Set in a prime location, blocks from the Potomac River waterfront is Sprinkles Cupcakes. This nationally famous bakery attracts some star-studded guests and meet and greets once in a while. Check out their Facebook event's page for more information, as well enjoy one the best desserts in DC anytime you want to treat the family.

christadiserio said:  The best part about the Georgetown Waterfront is the view to across the Potomac River, where you'll get to see the beautiful Kennedy Center. And why not have fun in such a stunning space? The Waterfront has an arching splash fountain that the kids will love. At night, the fountain is illuminated by lights & is quite the scene. If your feeling more adventurous than the splash fountain, there are several boathouses you can rent canoes & kayaks from to use on the Potomac River. While there are several nearby restaurants, think about packing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the Waterfront.

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  Known as one of the oldest zoos in the United States, the Smithsonian National Zoo is one that everyone should visit at least once in their life. This favorite local zoo sits on 163 acres in the heart of the city and houses thousands of animals from across 300 species. From the pandas to the large cats, you'll have several exhibits to choose from.

christadiserio said:  See all of the important landmarks in D.C. by land AND boat on a D.C. Duck Boat Tour! Whether you're a local or visiting the city, this is something everyone should do at least once. The kids will be thrilled taking a ride on this amphibious boat/vehicle and will enjoy seeing everything from the White House to all of many of the memorials. The tours are 90-minutes, so you'll get to see a lot in the perfect amount of time and the kids won't get too impatient.

Cost: $43 for adults and $33 for kids (0-12)

christadiserio said:  Splish splash with family at The Yards Park - a unique riverfront spot and ideal place for family recreation. Be sure to bring your swimsuits because your kids will love all of the water features. And if the weather is extra nice, pack a picnic, because there's plenty of green space to lay down a blanket and enjoy some grub. One more thing: don't second-guess bringing your furry family members because there's a dog park, too.

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  The United States Capitol is one of the most symbolically & historically important buildings in the United States of America. Additionally, it's one of the most architecturally intricate buildings that will fascinate you and the kids. As home to our nation's lawmakers, this is an important tour to take with your kids, as one day they'll remember this trip when they're sitting in their U.S. Government class or running for office themselves. Tours can be booked through the Capitol Visitor Center or by calling your senator or congressman. Specialty tours are also available.

Admission: Free

christadiserio said:  Rollingcrest-Chillum Splash Pool is complete with water slides, sprays, family pool, lap pool and more. While there are water options for everyone to partake in, we recommend the splash pool for younger kids that don't need the thrill of super high slides. Their thrill will be in a more kid-friendly area and they'll thoroughly enjoy their day here!

christadiserio said:  While Great Waves Waterpark is a full-blown Waterpark, it’s perfect for older and tiny kids to have a great time. The older kids will enjoy speed slides and an enormous wave pool, and the tiny tots can run around Minnow Bay. This area boasts a splash pad with many water features (dump buckets, water tables, twisted pipes), a waterfall and much more like batting cages, wave pool, food and cabanas. It’s the perfect place to cool off in the summer heat, especially at reasonable daily rates.

Cost: $8.25-$15.75

Memorial Day - Labor Day

christadiserio said:  Scramble calls themselves "the ULTIMATE indoor play space for kids" and they hit the nail on the head. This indoor play space is perfect for kids of all ages - from infants to older kids that are ready to take on a sporting match. Between the sensory stimulation for infants and the ball courts or role play zones, where kids can work in the race car shop or coffee shop, kids are guaranteed a great time. Be sure to bring socks, as everyone must have them on at all times.

Cost: $5 crawlers & tummies, $10 ages 2+ (weekdays ) & $10 crawlers & tummies, $20 ages 2+ (weekends)

Ages: Infant-10 years old

christadiserio said:  Our Special Harbor, an interactive and imaginative Chesapeake Bay-themed spray park, will impress everyone in the family. This sprayground boasts a spraying osprey nest, Chessie the sea serpent, & a misting lighthouse and sunflower. There is also a beach area that's not as busy with softer bubblers and water tables. Oh, and we can't forget the computerized water maze and dumping crab basket!

Note: All children 15 years & younger must wear aquatic shoes or sandals with a backstrap. Adults may wear flip flops instead of aquatic shoes and babies are exempt from wearing shoes.

Cost: Free

May 26-June 16; June 18-September 3

christadiserio said:  Wheaton Regional Park is a children's dream playground outside of the busy city! Children of all ages will love the playgrounds suitable for younger and older kids, various nature hikes, fishing ponds, children's gardens with tropical plants, carousel, little train and so much more. There are also picnic tables and grassy areas, so be sure to bring a blanket to eat on. Some visitors have said that you might even spot flying squirrels after sunset - whoa! As if this isn't good enough, parents have even commented on how clean the bathrooms are here. Now that's a relief!

Cost: Free

Lisa R said:  Come discover the history of street cars and how they helped build the communities where they were established at this museum full of educational displays and real, full-sized street cars from around the world. Kids love that admission here includes unlimited rides through the woods surrounding the museum on real, working trolleys. Be sure to check the museum calendar to find out about special events, like Holly TrolleyFest when you can catch Santa riding the rails.

Age: All

Cost: $10 adults, $8 kids 2-17 and seniors. Free for kids under 2 yrs.

christadiserio said:  The 800-acre Great Falls Park is an absolute stunner! If you love hiking and the outdoors, round up the family, bicycles, a picnic lunch and head on over to Great Falls Park. Take a scenic hike to one of the clifftops with dramatic views, check out the museum exhibits with hands-on activities for kids, or take a bike ride along the tow path and boardwalk over the river. While this is a hiker's paradise, there are hiking paths good for people of all ages and experience. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and a camera.

Cost: $10/vehicle or $5/person on foot or bike

christadiserio said:  Bring your kids out to Frying Pan Farm Park to let them experience what farm life was like in the 1920s to 1950s. This park offers the perfect combination of nature and cultural activities that your kids will enjoy. As part of the park, Kidwell Farm, demonstrates a working farm from this time period and houses many animals, like cows and horses that the kids will love seeing. Additionally, they have a covered picnic area for a nice lunch, grass fields, playgrounds, and an old country store with games and snacks. This is such a unique experience for all.

Cost: Free

christadiserio said:  The National Aquarium has more than 20,000 animals in their incredible habitats. You and the kids will get to see everything from a 500-pound green sea turtle to various sharks. While you're there, you'll even get to discover Living Seashore, an exhibit that allows you to touch stingrays, moon jellies and other animals. You won't regret your visits to one of the top aquariums in the U.S.!

Cost: $24.95/child (ages 3-11) & $39.95/adult

Lisa R said:  Take a trip back in time with a scenic railway tour through the Monocacy Valley. The 1hr 20 min trip in 1920s passenger cars or open flatcars take visitors along tracks originally built in 1872 takes visitors past turn of the century buildings and a 100 year old lime kiln. Seasonal train rides include an Easter train, Santa train, Teddy Bear Train, Super Hero Train, steam trains, Civil War reenactments and more.

Age: All

Cost: Starting at $12/adults, $10/child. Kids 2 and under ride free in parent's lap.

christadiserio said:  Westmoreland Berry Farm prides themselves on the highest quality fruit they grow, which really reflects in the A+ u-pick experience they provide for families. The fields are absolutely beautiful and all customers will have stunning views of the areas along the Rappahannock River. Everyone will have quite the experience picking fruit, like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, black raspberries and peaches! Oh, and it gets better - the entire family will get a kick out of meeting some of the farm's loving and energetic goats.

Strawberry, blueberry, raspberry & blackberry picking

christadiserio said:  Right outside the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains is Great Country Farms - a 400-acre working farm that offers an amazing u-pick experience. First, containers are provided for all customers and then they are taking on a wagon to and from the fields. Once they get to the fields, they'll get to pick from a variety of seasonal crops, such as strawberries, cherries, plums, peaches, raspberries and more.

Blackberry, raspberry & strawberry picking