Washington D.C.: A City Guide to Kid-Friendly Activities

When you think of Washington D.C., you might think of your fourth-grade field trip, but for families with young kiddos, it’s actually filled with monumental family fun. We gathered up some of our favorite spots in the Capital city and its surrounding areas that make time together one of the history books! 

Washington D.C.

• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: Dinosaur skeletons, a giant elephant, and a Discovery Room designed just for kids — this is a free, air-conditioned lifesaver. Wide hallways make it stroller-friendly, and there’s always something new to see for curious eyes.
• Yards Park (Navy Yard): The splash fountains and wading pool here are toddler gold. Parents can grab a coffee or lunch from nearby spots and relax while kids splash to their hearts’ content. Perfect for warm-weather mornings or afternoons.
• National Children's Museum: A perfect mix of play and learning, with hands-on exhibits that keep toddlers busy while sneaking in a little STEM fun. From climbing structures to bubble play and interactive light displays, there’s something for every curious kiddo. It’s bright, modern, and the kind of place where parents can get in on the fun!
• Smithsonian National Zoo: A toddler-friendly gem where little ones can see elephants, lions, and the famous giant pandas up close — and it’s totally free! Wide stroller-friendly paths make it easy to explore, and the Kids’ Farm is always a hit. It’s the perfect spot to spend a morning outdoors before naptime.
• Ice Cream Jubilee (Navy Yard): Unique flavors for parents (hello, Thai Iced Tea) and sprinkle-covered scoops for toddlers. A perfect follow-up to Yards Park playtime.
• Georgetown Waterfront Park: Interactive splash fountains, shaded picnic spots, and wide-open paths for scooters and strollers. Bonus: plenty of family-friendly restaurants nearby for an easy lunch or dinner.
• We, The Pizza (Capitol Hill): Pizza by the slice = zero waiting time for hangry toddlers. They’ll love watching pies get tossed in the air, while parents appreciate the quick service and outdoor seating.
• The Coupe (Columbia Heights): A coffee shop that actually welcomes families. The Coupe is spacious, stroller-accessible, and serves everything from lattes to pancakes. Toddlers love their all-day breakfast options, and parents appreciate the strong coffee.
• Beauvoir Playground (NW DC): One of the best playgrounds in the city — think giant slides, tunnels, and climbing structures, all in a safe, enclosed space. It’s on the grounds of the National Cathedral School and is open to the public on weekends only. 
  • Mom Tip: This playground is located on top of a steep hill so wear sneakers and be prepared for a hike!
• Union Square: A D.C. gem that’s perfect for a family outing – you can easily spend a whole wake window here (bonus: you’ll only park once). Grab coffee from one of the many coffee shops, stroll local shops like Three Littles (beautifully curated kids’ toys and gifts), and end with lunch (or dessert) in the food hall. 
  • Mom Tip: Monitor the events calendar for some family-friendly events like Toddler Storytime.
    

Virginia

• Alexandria Waterfront Park: Wide open space to run, watch boats drift by, and plenty of room for scooters and strollers. There are often public art installations to explore, and it’s the perfect spot to let toddlers burn off 
  • Mom Tip: Alexandria is super stroller-friendly, but Old Town’s cobblestone streets can be a little bumpy — if you’re heading there, lock the front wheels for a more comfortable ride!
• Misha’s Coffeehouse (Alexandria): This cozy spot has strong coffee (a must for parents) and fresh-baked pastries. It’s stroller-friendly, and since it’s right off King Street, it’s perfect for grabbing a latte before a walk to the waterfront.
• Cheesetique (Del Ray): Comfort food with a twist! Their gooey mac-and-cheese is toddler heaven, and parents can enjoy wine and more grown-up cheesy dishes. The Del Ray location especially has a neighborhood, kid-welcoming vibe.
• Gustavos (Del Ray): A cozy neighborhood spot serving up authentic Latin American comfort food in a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu has plenty of toddler-approved bites (think rice, beans, and cheesy pupusas), while parents can savor fresh flavors. It’s the kind of place where kids are part of the scene, not an afterthought.
• Armory Tot Lot (Alexandria): A small, fenced-in playground right in the heart of Old Town. Perfect for toddlers who don’t need huge structures, just a safe space to climb and slide. The kiddos love the freedom to run freely and parents appreciate that it’s walking distance from coffee shops and lunch spots.
• Bugsy’s Pizza Restaurant & Sports Bar (Alexandria): A long-time Old Town favorite. Bugsy’s is casual, quick, and filled with kid-friendly menu options like pizza and pasta. The relaxed vibe makes it easy for families with toddlers who can’t sit still for long.
• Potomac Yard Park (Alexandria): This is the toddler dream playground in Alexandria. It’s huge, with separate areas for littles and big kids, water features in summer, and plenty of benches for parents. If you’re looking to tire them out — this is your spot.
• Lost Boy Cider (Alexandria): Yes, cider! Lost Boy is incredibly family-friendly, with a bright, open taproom and plenty of non-alcoholic options too. Parents can sip while toddlers munch on snacks and explore the laid-back atmosphere.
• The Crossing Clarendon (Arlington): A fun, walkable hub with family-friendly restaurants, open courtyards, and plenty of space for strollers. It’s a great spot to grab a bite, let toddlers wiggle around outdoors, and enjoy the lively community vibe. Perfect for an last minute outing where parents can relax and kids stay entertained.
• The Dairy Godmother (Alexandria): A must-visit for sweet loving families, that serves up irresistible rich frozen custard. The menu often includes fun seasonal flavors plus dairy-free options, making it easy to please everyone.

Maryland

• National Capital Trolley Museum (Silver Spring, MD): Train-obsessed toddler? This spot is a dream. Short trolley rides through the woods, exhibits they can touch, and just enough walking to tire them out before naptime.
• Denizens Brewing Co. (Silver Spring, MD): Denizens has a spacious beer garden that’s super family-friendly. Parents enjoy craft brews while toddlers dig into kid-friendly eats and run around on the patio. Weekends often bring food trucks and a relaxed community vibe.
• Cabin John Regional Park (Bethesda, MD): If you’re up for a short drive, this park is the spot for toddlers. The Adventure Playground has slides, climbing structures, and sand, while the mini train ride around the park is always a hit.
• Bethesda Row: A lively, walkable spot with plenty of family-friendly dining, wide sidewalks, and shops that welcome little ones in tow. Parents can grab coffee or a bite while toddlers enjoy people-watching and open-air play spaces. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and charm!.