Best 3-Day Washington DC Family Itinerary

Over the course of three enriching days in Washington, DC, the itinerary provides a deep dive into the city's cultural, historical, and artistic highlights. Day 1 is centered in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, starting with a reflective visit to the Lincoln Memorial and moving through a series of historical and art-focused stops including the DAR National Headquarters, the U.S. Department of the Interior Museum, and the George Washington University Museum and Textile Museum. Lunch at GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar provides a fun break before continuing to the Renwick Gallery and the National Gallery of Art. The day winds down with stops at the Andrew W. Mellon Fountain, the Taras Shevchenko statue, some local shopping at Western Market, and dinner at the lively Founding Farmers.

 

Day 2 shifts to the Penn Quarter & Chinatown area and caters to both families and curious minds, starting with the interactive National Children's Museum and the engaging Planet Word. Midday brings excitement at two escape room experiences and a visit to the General Andrew Jackson Statue, with lunch at Arepa Zone in between. The afternoon includes a performance or tour at the Kennedy Center Opera House and souvenir shopping at Abe’s Gifts DC and I Love DC Gifts. Dinner at Matchbox wraps up the day with a cozy, modern American meal.

 

On Day 3, the focus turns to the National Mall and Capitol Hill. It begins with the serene US Capitol Grounds and Lower Senate Park, followed by a hearty brunch at Ted’s Bulletin. The rest of the day is packed with memorable stops including Escape Artist DC, the National Museum of the American Indian, and the iconic Air and Space Museum. A visit to the United States Botanic Garden and Eastern Market offer a relaxing close, ending the trip with dinner at the beloved Georgia Brown’s.