Best Things to Do in Washington, DC with Kids (Indoor + Outdoor Guide)

Looking for the best things to do with kids in Washington, DC for spring break or any time of year? The DC metro area is packed with family-friendly attractions, indoor play spaces, museums, and outdoor adventures perfect for toddlers, kids, and tweens. Whether you're planning a full vacation or just a day trip, this guide covers the top kid-friendly activities in Washington, DC and Northern Virginia, including indoor play options for rainy days.

See the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, DC (Best Family Viewing Spots)

One of Washington DC’s most magical experiences is the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The National Mall and Tidal Basin burst into color as thousands of cherry trees bloom, attracting visitors from around the world. Families can stroll along the waterfront, take photos under the pink and white canopy, and enjoy picnics while soaking in the beauty. This year, the blossoms are expected to peak March 29 – April 1.

Tip: Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds—especially if you're visiting with younger kids.

Outside DC, many local parks in Northern Virginia such as Potomac Park and Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, also feature cherry trees in bloom, offering quieter spots to appreciate spring’s arrival.

Visit Smithsonian Museums with Kids (Free Indoor Activities in DC)

No trip to the DC/NoVa area is complete without a visit to the iconic Smithsonian museums. The National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History are favorites, offering interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Kids can marvel at dinosaur skeletons, touch moon rocks, and learn about aviation history.

And make sure to carve out some time for the National Zoo, where you can see pandas, elephants, and other fascinating animals in a beautifully landscaped setting.

Best of all, Smithsonian museums are free, making them one of the top budget-friendly family activities in Washington, DC.

Outdoor Adventures in Northern Virginia

When the weather is pleasant, Northern Virginia is brimming with outdoor fun. Great Falls Park is a breathtaking destination for families, featuring scenic overlooks and easy hiking trails. The cascading waterfalls and rock formations make for a memorable experience. This is a great option if you're searching for outdoor family activities near Washington, DC that combine nature and light adventure.

Indoor Play for Kids Near Washington, DC (Perfect for Rainy Days & Year-Round Fun)

If your children need to burn off some energy, then of course we recommend a visit to Scramble! Scramble is one of the top-rated indoor playgrounds near Washington, DC, designed for kids, toddlers, and tweens looking for active, screen-free fun. With locations in Alexandria, Falls Church, and Shirlington, our indoor play centers offer safe, clean fun for kids of all ages. 

Scramble has something for everyone in the family. For younger children, our Alexandria and Falls Church locations are the perfect place to play, explore, and burn off energy.

Looking for things to do with older kids near DC? Scramble Parkour is the perfect way to keep tweens active and engaged. Our Shirlington location is just minutes from downtown Washington, making it an easy and convenient outing. Parking is simple, with ample space available in the adjacent garage and is always free for Scramble Parkour guests. While you’re there, don’t miss the Union Street Café. Its menu is especially worth exploring, so be sure to take a look ahead of your visit and plan your meal!

Hidden Gems in Northern Virginia for Families

Northern Virginia boasts unique attractions beyond the mainstream. Visit the Children’s Science Center Lab in Fairfax for hands-on experiments and STEM fun. This is a great option for indoor educational activities for kids near DC.

Families can also enjoy historic sites like George Washington’s estate at Mount Vernon, where kids can participate in interactive tours and activities. If your family loves trains, don’t miss the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, which offers kid-friendly exhibits and model train displays.

Family-Friendly Restaurants & Places to Explore Near DC

After a busy day of adventures, unwind at one of the area’s family-friendly restaurants. Outside Scramble Parkour, the Village at Shirlington has a movie theater, several cute shops, and great places to eat. The Mosaic District in Fairfax offers a variety of dining options plus a playful outdoor area where children can roam. Old Town Alexandria is another great spot, with charming streets, waterfront views, and plenty of ice cream shops to end your day on a sweet note.

Whether you're visiting for spring break or just looking for things to do with kids near Washington, DC this weekend, the DMV/Northern Virginia area offers endless options for family fun. From free museums and outdoor adventures to indoor playgrounds like Scramble, there’s something for every age, interest, and season.

FAQ: Things to Do in Washington, DC with Kids

What are the best things to do in Washington, DC with kids?
The best things to do in Washington, DC with kids include visiting Smithsonian museums, exploring the National Zoo, seeing the cherry blossoms, and enjoying indoor play spaces like Scramble in Northern Virginia for active, family-friendly fun year-round.

What are the best indoor activities for kids near Washington, DC?
The best indoor activities for kids near Washington, DC include museums, science centers, and indoor playgrounds like Scramble, where kids can climb, play, and stay active in a safe, climate-controlled environment regardless of weather.

Where can kids burn energy indoors near DC?
Kids can burn energy indoors near DC at places like Scramble, which offers large indoor play structures, activity gyms, and parkour spaces designed for toddlers, kids, and tweens to stay active and engaged.

Are there things to do with toddlers in Northern Virginia?
Yes, Northern Virginia offers many toddler-friendly activities, including parks, interactive museums, and indoor play spaces like Scramble’s Alexandria and Falls Church locations, which are specifically designed for children ages 0–8.

What are fun things to do with tweens near Washington, DC?
Fun things for tweens near Washington, DC include outdoor spots like Great Falls Park, interactive museums, and high-energy indoor activities like parkour at Scramble Shirlington.

What can families do near DC on a rainy day?
On rainy days near DC, families can visit museums, indoor play centers, and cafes. Scramble is a top option, offering indoor play, parkour, and family-friendly dining all in one place.