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Washington DC faves from out 2019 trip and where we plan to go in 2029
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items I'm still adding to the list, which is by no means everything you SHOULD see in DC, just what we managed to squeeze in in 3 days. Younger Child wanted to see the Newseum before it permanently closed in 1999. Most of these are Affiliate links
Ok, we didn't get her in 2019 as a family but I included the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History because both kids were there on their 8th grade class trip to Washington DC and LOVED it!
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
It's difficult to imagine the sheer size of these monuments and memorials! So many are free and within walking distance of each other. It's easy to make a walking loop around the National Mall and take in so many in just a day!
Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC
Another totally free activity in Washington DC! Timed tickets are needed but are easy to obtain. IF you can fit it in your itinerary, it's worth the time. Plan on 2-3 hours for the average visit, more if you're in to all things ari and space!
National Air and Space Museum
Free timed tickets are available on the museum's website. Hands down one of the most moving, emotional places I've every visited. We spent twice as long as we planned, didn't see everything and would absolutely go again. If you are every in DC, y...
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Washington DC
Central to most of our trip to Washington DC. It's very walkable, and when we were there in December 2019, not very crowded. There are so many things to see and do that are within sight of the Mall, it just makes sense to take it all in!
The National Mall
Plan on 2-3 hours here, unless you are a huge American History fan - then, you might need more time. Did you know they have over 3 MILLION artifacts?
American History Museum
Ok, another one we didn't see as a family but (again) it was one the 8th grade class trip both kid were on. Plan on 1-2 hours here
Ford's Theatre
I'm not sure how to tell you about this one. You just have to see it. It's an emotional and beautiful memorial. There was an amazing NPS Volunteer who share so many facts and stories with us. I'd always wanted to see this specific Memorial and was ...
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
I may need to start a new list called "Places my kids have been to in DC that I haven't!" - Another of the 8th grade trip stops. They both loved it and came home with the same photos!
Washington National Cathedral
The National WWII Memorial is special to me because my Grandpa was injured in WWII and lost nearly all function of his right arm and hand. The symbolism here is beautiful. We happened to visit on an event day with music and speeches.
National World War II Memorial, Washington DC
The Korean War Veterans Memorial is almost otherworldly - you almost expect the statues to move and call out to you. You really do need to view it from all sides.
Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington DC
When we visited, there were some renovations being done. We could go in and walk around but some areas were blocked off. Would love to go and see it again.
Jefferson Memorial, Washington DC
Absolutely massive and so beautifully done, the Memorial was one of our favorites. So many parents talking with their children about Dr King, not just walking by as we saw with others. Interesting fact: The Memorial, located just southwest of the N...
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Washington DC
I'm pretty sure we got lost in this one! Get the map from the NPS (Don't worry - they're free) and make sure you see all of it!
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Washington DC
We were in DC in December - no Cherry Blossoms for us! But, even on a chilly day, the view was beautiful. Its was nice to step back and see the Monuments and Memorials as part of a whole after seeing them individually. Not all of them of course, but...
Tidal Basin
I thought I would hate it but Union Station was great! Shopping, food and actual trains! Union Station is also a DC Metro stop, which is how we got around DC.
Union Station, Washington DC
Museum Fatigue is real. We didn't allow for nearly enough time and had to make a mad dash to see a few specific pieces that were on our do not miss lists.
Smithsonian American Art Museum
One of our first DC stops. Such a fun place - we even designed out own stamps! Another amazing FREE thing to do in DC
National Postal Museum
Unique round building with central courtyard and sculpture garden with a focus on 20th century art and artist. It was cold and wet day - this was the perfect place to dry off and enjoy something that wasn't on our original to do list - We're glad we...
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
We stayed her and loved it! The staff were friendly, helpful, and funny. It's pet friendly, too. Located close to Union Station, making transportation a breeze. Would definitely stay with them again.
Kimpton George Hotel
I'll be honest, I was a little worried about getting around in Washington DC. Having never been a regular user of public transportation, I was a little overwhelmed. But, the employees were very nice. A gentleman helped us pick our best route on our f...
WMATA