Washington DC Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Washington DC
This weekend itinerary for Washington DC is designed for local families with children aged 3-12, offering a mix of iconic free museums and festive paid attractions. We've focused on activities that are genuinely engaging for kids, provide value, and fit a budget-conscious approach. Expect playful learning, immersive experiences, and plenty of opportunities to create lasting family memories, with options for both indoor and outdoor fun to adapt to any weather.
Friday Evening - Festive Fun & Indoor Wonders
Friday, January 2Museum Play Labs
Dive into hands-on learning at the National Museum of American History's Spark!
Lab for kids aged 6-12, where they can invent and experiment. For younger children (under 6), the Wegmans Wonderplace offers an early-learning play space with tactile activities. Both areas foster creativity and curiosity in a stimulating environment.
Spark!Lab is perfect for older kids to build and test inventions, while Wonderplace offers sensory play for toddlers and preschoolers. Restrooms and stroller access are available throughout the museum. This activity is free and great for winding down after school before an evening activity. Allocate 1-1.5 hours.
The museum is located on the National Mall. Limited street parking is available, but public transportation via Metro (Federal Triangle or Smithsonian stations) is recommended and stroller-friendly. Alternatively, a short walk or rideshare from other downtown locations.
Ice Skating Spectacular
Experience the Winter Skate Spectacular, an indoor ice-skating rink set within the magnificent Great Hall of the National Building Museum.
This festive activity offers an exciting way to enjoy the winter season, with dedicated evening sessions.
Kids (and adults) will love gliding on the ice in such an impressive setting. Skate rentals are available. It's a fantastic indoor option for active fun, especially if the weather is chilly. Restrooms are on-site. Toddler Time sessions are also available earlier in the day on Fridays (11:00 AM - 11:45 AM) if preferred for very young children.
The National Building Museum is easily accessible by Metro (Judiciary Square station on the Red Line). Limited metered street parking and paid garages are nearby. Stroller parking is usually available at the entrance.
Saturday - Interactive Discoveries & Holiday Lights
Saturday, January 3Children's Museum Fun
Spend the morning at the National Children's Museum, a unique blend of a science center and children's museum.
With extended holiday hours until 5 PM, kids can explore STEAM-focused exhibits, climb the three-story 'Dream Machine,' and engage in creative play in various interactive zones designed for children under twelve.
This museum is perfect for energetic kids aged 3-12, offering endless opportunities for hands-on exploration and imaginative play. 'Little Dreamers' area is specifically for infants and toddlers. Restrooms and family facilities are readily available. Advanced timed-entry tickets are strongly recommended.
Located in Woodrow Wilson Plaza, the museum is easily accessible via Metro (Federal Triangle or Metro Center stations). Several paid parking garages are within walking distance. Stroller access is excellent throughout the museum.
L'Enfant Plaza Lunch
Enjoy a casual, family-friendly lunch at L'Enfant Plaza, conveniently located near the National Children's Museum and the International Spy Museum.
The plaza offers various quick-service and sit-down options suitable for diverse tastes and budgets, with ample space for families.
A great spot for a relaxed lunch break, with choices ranging from deli sandwiches to international cuisine. Many options have kid-friendly menus and seating. Restrooms are available within the plaza facilities. Budget-friendly dining options can be easily found.
L'Enfant Plaza is a major Metro hub (Green, Yellow, Blue, Orange, Silver lines) and easily walkable from nearby attractions. Parking garages are available, but public transport is often easiest.
Spy Museum Mission
Embark on an 'Undercover Mission' at the International Spy Museum, where families can test their spy skills through RFID-enabled interactive challenges.
Explore one of the largest collections of international espionage artifacts, learning about spies and intelligence operations that shaped history.
This museum is highly interactive and engaging for older kids (ages 7-12 will particularly enjoy the mission aspect) and adults. It's an immersive experience with gadgets, weapons, and cameras. Restrooms and a gift shop are on-site. Allow 2-3 hours for a full visit.
The museum is a short walk from L'Enfant Plaza Metro station and is close to the National Mall and The Wharf. Paid parking is available in the L'Enfant Plaza garage. Stroller access is good throughout the museum.
ZooLights Finale
Conclude your day with the magical ZooLights, powered by Pepco, at the Smithsonian's National Zoo.
This is the last night of the event, transforming the zoo into a winter wonderland with environmentally friendly LED lights, glowing animal lanterns, live music, and festive treats.
Kids will be captivated by the dazzling light displays and illuminated animal sculptures. It's a popular holiday tradition, so expect crowds. Dress warmly! Restrooms and food vendors are available throughout the event. Timed passes are required.
The National Zoo is accessible via Metro (Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan or Cleveland Park stations). Limited paid parking is available at the zoo but fills up quickly; public transport or rideshares are strongly advised for this event.
Sunday - Relaxed Explorations & Creative Play
Sunday, January 4Dino-Mite Garden Trains
Visit the U.
S. Botanic Garden for 'Season's Greenings: Dino-Mite!,' a free holiday exhibit featuring plant-based sculptures of dinosaurs like T. rex and Triceratops, surrounded by plants from their era. The outdoor display includes G-gauge model trains weaving through this prehistoric plant world. This is the last day of the exhibit.
Kids fascinated by dinosaurs and trains will love this unique botanical display. It's a wonderful, educational, and free indoor/outdoor activity for all ages, particularly captivating for younger children. Restrooms are available. Check for any live holiday music or food vendors that might be present on the final day.
Located adjacent to the U.S. Capitol, the garden is a short walk from Capitol South (Blue/Orange/Silver lines) or Federal Center SW (Blue/Orange/Silver lines) Metro stations. Limited metered parking may be found, but public transport is recommended.
Folger Frost Fair
Step back in time at the Folger Frost Fair, a month-long winter festival inspired by historic London frost fairs, offering holiday music, decorations, walk-up tours, seek-and-find games, and craft stations.
This is the final day of the event.
This free event offers engaging activities for families, including interactive games and creative crafts, appealing to children's imaginations. It's a great opportunity for cultural immersion in a festive atmosphere. Restrooms are available. Allow 1-2 hours for exploration.
The Folger Shakespeare Library is located near the Capitol and Library of Congress. Capitol South Metro station (Blue/Orange/Silver lines) is the closest. Street parking is very limited; public transport or rideshares are advisable.
Puppet Show Magic
Enjoy a delightful performance of 'Peter Rabbit' by Pumpernickel Puppets as part of the Vacation Week Palooza at Puppet Showplace Theater.
This modern adaptation of Beatrix Potter's classic tale features large hand puppets, live voices, and audience participation. This is the final day of the show.
This performance of 'Frosty The Snow Man' is recommended for ages 4+. It's a charming way to wind down the weekend with a classic winter story, presented with theatrical magic and puppetry. The Puppet Co. is known for its family-friendly shows. Restrooms are available at Glen Echo Park. Run time is approximately 60 minutes.
Glen Echo Park has free parking. It's accessible by car or by MetroBus (routes 29, 30) from the Friendship Heights Metro station (Red Line), though a car is generally easiest with kids.
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