As an in-home family and newborn photographer who lives in Georgetown and enjoys the quality of life in the Washington, D.C. area, I’m frequently asked to share my favorite restaurants, sights, museums, and more.
Whether you’re traveling to the area for the first time or you’re a fellow local who loves exploring the DMV area, I hope this list of family-friendly D.C. attractions helps you plan some unforgettable memories with your children!
Georgetown Restaurants
- La Bonne Vache: A delicious go-to for French-inspired food. Bonus: no reservations are needed!
- Martin’s Tavern: Known as the place where John F. Kennedy proposed marriage to Jackie, this restaurant is full of history and good food.
- Baked & Wired: Stop here for the BEST cupcakes; the seasonal Smurfette (lemon and blueberry) is my favorite!
Washington, D.C. Area Sightseeing
- Tudor Place: This Georgetown landmark preserves the stories of six generations of descendants of Martha Washington as well as the enslaved and free people who worked there for nearly two centuries. Your family can tour the house and explore the beautiful gardens on your own.
- Dumbarton Oaks: Enjoy viewing Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art here. Your children will enjoy running around the amazing gardens!
- The Washington National Cathedral and Bishop’s Garden: These two tourist spots are worth seeing and exploring! I love visiting the gift shop and grabbing a bite to eat and a coffee on the grounds at Open City Cafe.
- Fun Facts: I attended weekly chapel at the Cathedral when I was in elementary school, and my husband, Mark, proposed to me outside of the Cathedral in an area where you can see the whole city!
- Roosevelt Island: If you’re in the mood for a hike, visit this 88.5-acre island and national memorial, which is located in the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. During the Civil War, this island was used as a training camp for the United States Colored Troops.
- Lincoln Memorial: Visit at sunrise to be amongst the crowds and see the amazing view – this is a must-do!
Washington, D.C. Kid-Friendly Museums
While there’s no shortage of popular museums in Washington, D.C., that you can visit with your kids, a few of my favorites are lesser known and are quite enjoyable for young families!
Seasonal Attractions in the Washington, D.C. Area
If you’re on the hunt for family-friendly fun in the spring, summer, or fall, consider picnicking at Gravelly Point and watching the airplanes land while you enjoy time together!
Another fun summertime activity for families is visiting the Yards Park Fountain. Come for the splash-friendly water and stay for the ample green space!
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The Washington, D.C. area is packed with family-friendly adventures. I hope this list has you brainstorming fun opportunities to spend time together exploring this historic area we’re blessed to call home!
