Washington, DC, is one of my favorite destinations for families traveling with teens. From historical landmarks to modern attractions, the nation’s capital has something everyone in your family will love.
Whether your teen is into history, science, art, or adventure, here’s a list of activities that will keep them engaged and entertained. My kids love them, so I’m sure yours will too!
Explore the Smithsonian Museums
D.C. is home to the world-renowned Smithsonian Institution, which includes 17 museums. The National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History are must-visits, offering interactive exhibits that capture the imagination.
My boys also love the National Museum of African American History and Culture, as well as the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of the American Indian.
Take a Twilight Monument Tour
Experience the Washington, D.C. monuments and memorials in a whole new light—literally.
A twilight tour offers a unique perspective on landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, with the added bonus of cooler evening temperatures, essential in the summer months when the heat and humidity can be oppressive.
Check out our favorite tours:
- Washington DC Night-Time City Tour
- Washington DC Small-Group Evening City Tour
- LED Lights Magic Night-Time Guided Tour with Photo Stops & Snack
Take Photos Around Town
Nothing captures the fun or gives your teen better photos for their social media account than a photo shoot around the nation’s capital. Find a D.C. photographer and book a mini-session or longer shoot to see even more of the city with a local.
Not ready to book yet? Sign up for a Flytographer account and get a $25 credit added to your account to use once you are ready to capture your travel memories.
Visit the International Spy Museum
Teens (and 007 fans) with a sense of adventure will love the International Spy Museum. They can learn about the history of espionage, try their hand at undercover missions, and explore gadgets used by spies throughout history.
Paddle on the Potomac River
For adventurous families, rent a kayak or paddle board and explore the Potomac River. It’s a fun way to see the city from a different vantage point while getting some exercise.
We love to paddle around Theodore Roosevelt Island, which has enough calm waters for even younger siblings to enjoy.
Tour the U.S. Capitol
A visit to the U.S. Capitol is a must for anyone interested in American government. Guided tours offer insights into the legislative process and the chance to see where history is made.
NOTE: Try to book tickets in advance, especially during school holidays so that you are 100% sure you can be on a tour.
Remember that tours can be cancelled if the political calendar calls for it.
Want to learn how to get tickets to the Capital, White House, Pentagon and more? Check out our DC with Kids guide on Amazon.com.
Stroll through Georgetown
Georgetown offers a mix of shopping, dining, and historic charm. Teens will enjoy browsing the shops along M Street and up Wisconsin, or taking in the scenic views along the waterfront (ice skating down by the water in winter!).
If you need a treat, pop into Georgetown Cupcakes for one of their seasonal offerings or Cafe Georgetown for a coffee and baklava.
Kids getting ready to apply to college will want to make sure they walk up to Georgetown University to take a student tour and wander the campus. It’s easy to get to from M Street.
Want a tour? Check out this cruise and walking tour that takes you along the Potomac River and through Georgetown.
Discover the National Zoo
Part of the Smithsonian, the National Zoo is a great place for animal lovers. Highlights include the giant pandas and the newly renovated bird house.
Younger siblings will want to ride the historic carousel, so make sure you grab tickets for the whole family.
Go on a Food Tour
DC is a foodie’s paradise, and a food tour is a great way to sample the city’s diverse culinary scene. From gourmet donuts to international cuisine, there’s something even your picky eater will love.
Here’s a few of our favorite D.C. food tours:
- U Street Food & History Guided Walking Tour
- Washington DC Delicious Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
- Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour & Neighborhood Walk
Visit the National Archives
Teens with an interest in history will appreciate seeing the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights at the National Archives. The interactive exhibits help bring history to life, which is way better than a textbook.
Bike the National Mall
Rent bikes and explore the National Mall at your own pace. It’s an easy way to see the monuments and memorials, and there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the views.
You can borrow a city bike through Capital Bikeshare (stations throughout the city), rent a bike from a local shop, or join a bike tour of the Mall.
Catch a Show at the Kennedy Center
The Kennedy Center offers a variety of performances that teens might enjoy, from Broadway shows to concerts.
Check the schedule ahead of time to see what’s on during your visit.
Take a Day Trip to Mount Vernon
Just a short drive from D.C., Mount Vernon offers a glimpse into the life of George Washington. The estate includes a mansion, gardens, and a museum with interactive exhibits that will drive home what your kids learned in their U.S. History class.
Explore the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
For teens interested in modern art, the Hirshhorn Museum is a favorite. The outdoor sculpture garden is perfect for families with teens and younger kids, with large-scale works that invite interaction.
Visit Ford’s Theatre
History buffs will appreciate a visit to Ford’s Theatre, where President Lincoln was assassinated. The site includes a museum with artifacts from the Civil War era and the Petersen House, where Lincoln died.
There are also performances still held at the theatre, including the annual “A Christmas Carole” performance.
Whether your teen is a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an adrenaline junkie, Washington, DC, offers a wide range of activities that are sure to make your trip memorable. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s no shortage of things to do in the nation’s capital.
