Washington, D.C.
Those who live near our nation’s capital can take it for granted. Yes, it comes with some of the worst traffic and highest prices in the country. But it is one of those trips that every kid should experience.
A visit to D.C. is best for the 8-12 crowd who will really feel the impact of its importance and see the founding documents and artifacts that have molded our nation’s history.
A visit to the National Archives will leave the whole family in awe as you view the original U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Magna Carta.
Every child will love the National Museum of Natural History where they can view Egyptian mummies, dinosaur fossils, and lots of other kid favorites.
And what kid doesn’t love airplanes and spaceships? A visit to the National Air and Space Museum will allow them to glimpse original planes, walk through a rocket and see all things space-related – and they can stop by the gift shop to grab some freeze-dried astronaut ice cream or a replica space shuttle.
Families will also enjoy a walk down the National Mall where all of these museums are located in close proximity, a visit to any of the food trucks, or a ride on the Smithsonian’s famous carousel.
In addition to the main museums on the National Mall, older kids may enjoy a tour of the U.S. Mint to see how our currency is made, the National Children’s Museum, or the super-cool National Spy Museum.
In our nation’s capital, with all of its monuments and history, parents and kids alike will have no problem finding plenty to keep them busy and engaged.