Spring Break has begun in the DC area, so you may be in need of some extra reminders of all the great activities there are to do around the area to keep your kids entertained over the next few weeks — depending on when they’re off from school. And if some of this sounds familiar (including this intro), that’s because a version of this post has been published in many previous years, but it’s been updated to reflect what’s going on now.
Many of the ideas here are already on the blog, but sometimes a little guidance for what’s best at certain times helps. Among these recommendations are special and seasonal activities, exhibits and shows that are currently running, iconic spots in DC, easy day trips out of the city, and outings that take advantage of the great spring weather.
And, of course, the rest of the blog is full of suggestions if you want even more options. So, whether you’re enjoying a staycation or visiting from out of town, you should have no problem keeping the kids (and yourself!) happy during the week off — or on, depending how you look at it. Happy Spring Break!
Tulips galore at Burnside Farm’s Festival of Spring
Bloom Town
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Varies by locale
Admission: Varies by locale
There are more big blooms to enjoy around the DC area besides the cherry blossoms, a couple of them literally coming now. Burnside Farms’ Festival of Spring showcasing 150 varieties of tulips has begun. Bluebells are starting to blanket the grounds around the area, and azaleas will begin to bloom, too. And the best places to see them are fab for more than just the flowers. This post has details on where to go for those and other big blooms coming up.
Cherry Blossom Fun
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Through April 14
Admission: Varies by activity
You can catch the tail end of the big bloom at the Tidal Basin, and even past the peak the National Cherry Blossom Festival presents all kinds of fun and enriching activities through its run, some on a daily basis. Catch some cultural performances (be sure to check the schedule), view Petal Porches around the area, and see some trees in bloom at a few locales around the area. On weekends, there are bigger, signature Cherry Blossom Festival events, like the Blossom Kite Festival, Bloomaroo, Cherry Blossom Parade, and Petalpalooza. This post rounds up those that are particularly great for families.
Egg-Cellent Outings
Where: Around the area
When: Through mid-April
Admission:; Varies by event
Egg hunts, bunny visits, and more seasonal activities are happening all around the area. There are also attractions beyond bunnies and candy-filled eggs for your whole gang. This post has a round-up of all the Easter fun happening around the area over the coming weeks.
Catch a Nats Game
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Starting April 1
Admission: Varies
Baseball season has begun, and there will be plenty of home games to catch over the next few weeks, including some midday on weekdays that make for a perfect outing with kids. Check the schedule here and look for special promos here. And be sure to view my tips for spending less on a day at the ballpark before you go!
Solar Eclipse
Where: Air & Space & National Mall, DC
When: April 6 & 8
Admission: Free
If your Spring Break is at the same time as the solar eclipse, there will be some fun activities for it in DC! On April 6, the Air & Space Museum is hosting a special Family Day to get ready for the event. And on April 8, the day the eclipse will occur, there will be a Solar Eclipse Festival on the National Mall from 4th – 12th Streets with all kinds of activity stations for all ages.
Show Time
Where: Theatres around the DC area
When: Varies by show
Admission: Varies by show
Keep the kids entertained with some live entertainment! There are several shows to see on local stages over the next few weeks: Junie B. Jones, The Musicalat Adventure Theatre, Cinderella: A Salsa Fairytaleand Inside Out & Backwards at Imagination Stage, Little Shop of Horrors at Ford’s Theatre, Peter Pan at National Theatre in April, Alice in Wonderland at The Puppet Co. in mid-April.
Go with the Flow
Where: Waterways around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies
Row, row, row your boat or kayak or canoe! Paddle season has begun as several places have started offering boat rentals. Boating in DC has several locations in the District and a few NoVa Parks offer it, too. This post about places to go with the flow has more details.
Spring Break in the Trees
Where: Several around the DC area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Starts at $45/adult, $16/child
Many of the local climbing and ropes courses have opened for the season and have extra weekday availability now. You can see a round-up of them here — and while it mentions fall climbing, they are all open in spring and summer, too! The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring is a KFDC fave, offering a thrilling aerial forest adventure — it will be open on weekdays through April 1 for kids who have Spring Break during that time (and hopefully they’ll announce dates for DC students’ Spring Break in mid-April). If you want to do something special, active, challenging, and super fun, I highly recommend this adventure in the trees. See more about some of our experiences at the park here and here.
Take t(w)eens to Glenstone Museum
Off the Beaten Museum Path
Where: Around DC
When: Hours vary by museum
Admission: Varies by museum
If you don’t veer from the well trodden path of the National Mall now and then, you could miss out on some amazing museum exhibits and experiences. A few are listed here, but there are many more! Check out this round-up of some these places in DC that may not be on your museum radar — but should be.
Museums Beyond DC
Where: Museums in MD & VA
When: Hours vary by museum
Admission: Varies by museum
While DC is known for its legion of museums, there are even more beyond the District lines that are great to explore with kids. Explore Air & Space in Chantilly and aviation in College Park, see dinos and more cool science in Baltimore, This pot has a round-up of museums in Maryland and Northern Virginia to add to your family’s activity mix.
An Art Tour for the T(w)een Scene
Where: Glenstone Museum | Potomac, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
This one is for the T(w)een Scene, as Glenstone requires visitors to be at least 12 years old. The indoor/outdoor modern art museum sprawling gloriously over 300 acres in Potomac showcases modern works inside a gallery and outside around the beautiful grounds. Take advantage of the Guaranteed Entry program, which admits students and one accompanying adult without having to reserve tickets. Be sure to note that they don’t allow children under 12 at all, but it’s a wonderful place to visit with tweens and teens!
Revolutions: Art from the Hirshhorn Collection, 1860-1960
Where: Hirshhorn Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
The Hirshhorn is celebrating its 50th anniversary with this exhibition that showcases works for the museum’s permanent collection over a hundred year period. It’s wonderfully curated with paintings, sculptures and more pieces from both classic and contemporary artists. Pick up a “Your Turn” guide to the exhibit that includes fun prompts and a scavenger hunt element especially for kids. And be sure to check the schedule for Storytime sessions and more artsy fun for kids. and
Mission: Fun (& 007 Vehicles!)
Where: International Spy Museum | L’Enfant Plaza, DC
When: Daily, 9am – 8pm
Admission: $36/age 13+, $28/7-12, free/6 & under
Explore the intriguing world of espionage at the Spy Museum! Exhibits are engaging for both kids and adults, with state-of-the-art multimedia installations and loads of cool interactives. Discover tricks of the trade, view gadgets used to keep secrets and disguises to hide identities, learn about some of the most famous spies and their missions, and much more. Through April, see the Bond in Motion exhibit featuring iconic vehicles featured inJames Bond films! It’s a thrilling day out for all! KFDC Tip: You can save on tickets by purchasing in advance…the earlier you buy, the more you save.
ISEKAI: Blooming Parallel Worlds
Where: ARTECHOUSE | Southwest DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $20-25/adult, $17/age 4-15, $72/family 4-pack (look for discount)
Spring at ARTECHOUSE is a celebration of the cherry blossoms, and this year ISEKAI: Blooming Parallel Worlds explores multiple universes of blossoms, inspired by the Isekai genre of Anime. Floor to ceiling projections, plus interactive elements make this one beautiful, engaging, and fun to experience.
Mind Tricks & More Fun
Where: Museum of Illusions | CityCenter DC
When: Sun–Thurs, 10am – 8pm | Fri & Sat, 10am – 9pm
Admission: $23.95/age 13+, $18.95/age 5-12
If you’re looking for something unique and fun to do indoors, consider the new(ish) Museum of Illusions. All of the exhibits and installations are interactive in some way, whether you’re staring at pictures to watch them “move,” standing within an exhibit to feel its effects, solving some kind of puzzle, or placing yourself just so to create an illusional scene. This post has more about it with a glimpse of what you’ll experience there.
Fairies in the Garden
Where: Annmarie Sculpture Garden | Lusby, MD
When: Starting April 5
Admission: $5 suggested donation
Guaranteed to delight, the annual exhibit of fairy and gnome houses at Annmarie Sculpture Garden begins in April. This year more than 100 homes for spritely creatures will be displayed throughout the grounds. Viewing them (and more art) as you walk along a trail through the woods is a wonderful adventure for all ages. Plan for play time in the adorable Fairy Lolly, and stop in the Arts Center for more creative works. Read more about and get a glimpse of it all here and here. (FYI – Annmarie is fantastic anytime, fairy houses or not!)
What’s the Word
Where: Planet Word | Downtown DC
When: Wednesday – Monday, 10am – 5pm (until 6pm Sat & Sun)
Admission: Free
The museum all about language is full of fun and interesting exhibits, most of them interactive. There are elements that all ages will love, though tweens and older will get the most out of it, having more grammar lessons under their belts and generally better comprehension. Our whole family loves it! Admission is free, but you need to book tickets in advance. Right now, there are some available for dates over the break. And a limited number of day-of, walk-up passes are available on the half-hour.
An O-So-Cool Adventure
Where: Mansion on O Street | Dupont Circle
When: Daily, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Starts at $30
Locate secret doors, see outrageously fabulous themed rooms, and browse a trove of secondhand treasures on a tour of one of the coolest spots in DC: The Mansion on O Street. The Dupont Circle landmark is a mansion, museum, secondhand store, and hotel all in one — and visitors are welcome to explore it all. (And April 8-9, they are hosting special Easter Treasure Hunts – $50.) Admission can add up, so Spring Break is a great time to go if you’re looking for something special to do. Plus, it’s a unique adventure in a truly stunning space.
Visit the Capitol , outdoors and inside
Visit the U.S. Capitol
Where: U.S. Capitol Building | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Daily, 8:30am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free
Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol! You might be able to get on a guided tour day of, but it’s always recommended to book in advance. A tour lasts about an hour, and includes a short film, walks through the The Rotunda and National Statuary Hall, and a peek into the Old Congress Chamber. Before you go, be sure to read these guidelines on what you can and can’t bring with you. And if you can’t get on a tour inside, it’s still nice to walk around the grounds .
Tour the Memorials
Where: National Mall & Tidal Basin, DC
When: Ongoing
Admission: Free
Be a tourist in your hometown (unless you’re visiting, then just be a tourist). Take the opportunity to visit the many memorials on the Mall and around the Tidal Basin. Not only are the structures themselves marvel-worthy, there’s a lot to be gleaned from them, too. Learn about some of our country’s presidents and leaders — George, Abe, Tom, FDR, & MLK — from displays, park rangers, and in the Visitors Centers. And walk or bike among them all to add some exercise (and extra fun) to the venture!
A Local & National Treasure
Where: Library of Congress | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Explore the largest library in the world and one of DC’s most iconic attractions. The Library of Congress is a trove of knowledge, art, history, and culture — and the public is welcome to enjoy it all, and for free! Walk-ins are sometimes welcome, but it’s best to reserve free tickets in advance.
A Monumental Experience
Where: Washington Monument | National Mall, DC
When: Daily, 9am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The Washington Monument is super fun to tour — you can go up inside to check out interesting exhibits and take in DC views. Advance reservation tickets for the next day are available online for a nominal processing fee. Same-day, free tickets are also be available on a first-come, first-served basis daily starting at 8:30am at the Washington Monument Lodge, located on 15th Street NW, between Madison Drive NW and Jefferson Drive SW. Get a peek of the experience from the inside here.
Abe’s Last Days
Where: Ford’s Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Daily, 9am – 4:30pm
Admission: Free – $3
Ford’s isn’t just a place to catch live entertainment. The site of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination highlights its historic significance through exhibits about the president, the circumstances surrounding his assassination, and that fateful night at the theatre. The National Historic Site features a museum, theatre walk-throughs and a presentation, and guests are welcome to explore it all. Best for about ages 8 and up. Reserve tickets online in advance for $3 or get them at the Box Office for free.
Time for a Tour
Where: Old Post Office Tower | Downtown DC
When: Daily, 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free
One of our back pocket places to take out-of-town guests for impressive views of the city! See DC from a new vantage point at the Old Post Office Tower. Located within the Waldorf Astoria at 12th & Pennsylvania, NW, it’s free to visit and go up to the observation deck of one of the tallest structures in DC. This post has info for visiting — be sure to read it for details on accessing the entrance.
A Bird’s Eye View
Where: Observation Deck at CEB Tower | Rosslyn, VA
When: Daily, but hours vary
Admission: Free
Gaze out of floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a new perspective of DC. The 30+ story high space in Rosslyn offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic vistas. Read more about it here, but note that not all of the exhibits and immersive experiences are still there. However, the spectacular views and the thrill of being up that high make it worth going. This was only open to Arlington residents for awhile, but they’re once again welcoming the general public. And even better now, admission is FREE!
Outside In
Where: US Botanic Garden | Capitol Area, DC
When: Daily, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
The U.S. Botanic Garden Explore the different plant collections as you walk amid woodland flora, desert areas, and tropical rainforest (one of the the most stunning spaces in DC). It’s especially nice to visit on foul weather days, because it kind of feels like pulling a fast one on the weather gods. Plan on a stroll through the lovely National Garden outside, too. Read more about the USBG here and here.
On the Bluebell Trail at Bull Run Regional Park
Take a Hike
Where: Around the area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale
It’s a great time of year to spend some time on the trail as the weather warms up and color returns to the landscape. See flowers in bloom, tramp in places with scenic views, hike and explore history at interesting locales, and enjoy a day of active fun. This post has a a bunch of recommendations for good walks in the woods with the kids. KFDC Tip: Hike among the bluebells at Bull Run Regional Park or Riverbend. It’s also a good time to take advantage of lesser crowds on weekdays at places that usually draw them, like Great Falls, Scott’s Run, Roosevelt Island, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Patapsco Valley State Park.
Beachy Keen: Sand, Surf, & Fossils
Where: Around the area
When: Daily
Admission: Varies by beach
Many of us associate Spring Break with beach trips, so why not hit the shore with the kids? There are several places within day trip-distance from DC that are nice for sand and surf. Even if the weather is cool, you can still picnic, play, maybe fossil hunt, and enjoy beachy vibes. Head out to Calvert Cliffs State Park or Flag Ponds Nature Park (note limited days at FPNP). Or go east to Sandy Point State Park. Play paleontologist and look for prehistoric fragments along the Potomac at the Purse Area in Charles County, MD (one of our very favorite outings in the area). You can also make a bigger trip out to Westmoreland State Park, about a two-hour drive away in Montross, VA, where you can hike, beach, fossil hunt, and even do some camping.
Ride On
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Free
The weather during spring is usually perfect for biking, and with kids off from school, you can all get in some good cycling time together. Explore memorials and Smithsonian gardens as you ride on the National Mall. Bike along the Anacostia and make some fun stops on the way. Two-wheel it on fun trails in Virginia and Maryland. There are a bunch of great routes to ride around the area, and this post will help you find one perfect for your crew to pedal.
Grounds for Play
Where: Playgrounds around the DMV
When: Daily
Admission: Free
Let the kiddos burn some energy and get some fresh air at one of many awesome area playgrounds. Beauvoir, Clemyjontri, Watkins Regional Park, Hains Point, Cabin John Regional Park, Wheaton Regional Park, plus loads of DC Parks and Rec locations are great places to swing, climb, run, slide, romp, and even more!
Roam a Garden
Where: Around the area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale
With flowers blooming and landscapes bursting with color, a visit to a garden is a fantastic outing, especially when there’s often more to do than just look at plants and flowers. Explore and play at the National Arboretum, plan for an afternoon visit to the fairytale-esque Dumbarton Oaks (be sure to note limited days/hours), wander around Green Spring Gardens on a scavenger hunt, enjoy the array of flora at Brookside, venture out to the gorgeous Meadowlark Botanical Garden, or relish in the peace at the Franciscan Monastery in Brookland. Plus, the Enid A. Haupt Garden, Mary Livingston Ripley Garden, Pollinator Garden, and more small Smithsonian gardens are all open to visitors and fun to explore on the National Mall.
Art al Fresco
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies
Enjoy the outdoors and get an art fix at the same time. The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden on the National Mall features large-scale sculptures (Hirshhorn is closed for construction). The Kreeger Museum in the Foxhall/Palisades has an outdoors area with lots of cool works. Tour the lovely Annmarie Sculpture Garden in Calvert County and enjoy more art experiences there. Glenstone, mentioned above, features unique art in the most beautiful outdoor setting. You can also see works all over the city on a DC Murals Tour.
Stroll the cute streets of Old Town
Hang Out in Old Town
Where: Alexandria, VA
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by activity
I’m not sure it can be called a day trip destination because it’s so close to DC, but you can make a really fun day of it in Old Town Alexandria. Visit the Torpedo Factory, where you can see all kinds of art, meet some of the artists, and pop into the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. Wander around the waterfront and take a tour of the Tall Ship Providence moored there right now. Browse the shops along King Street and maybe even do a consignment shop tour. Check out the Apothecary Museum and National Inventors Hall of Fame in that area, too — more info about both here.
Charm City, Hon
Where: Baltimore, MD
When: Daily
Admission: Varies by locale
Baltimore has so many fantastic attractions that are great to visit with kids, and it’s just a 45-minute drive away. Play the day away at Port Discovery. Explore the exhibits and loads of hands-on activities at the Maryland Science Center. See some of the quirkiest, coolest art around at the American Visionary Art Museum. Get an eyeful of the underwater world at the National Aquarium. Get a history lesson and stroll the grounds at Fort McHenry. Tour the historic ships moored at the Inner Harbor. Learn about Baltimore’s early business days at the Museum of Industry. The KFDC Guide to Exploring Baltimore with Kids has info for all of these adventures, plus dining recs and more to explore!
Explore Another Capital City
Where: Annapolis, MD
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by activity
Annapolis, Maryland’s capital, is as beautiful as it is fun, and you can easily make a day or longer trip of it there. Stroll around town and take in views the Chesapeake, visit the grounds of the Naval Academy, enjoy some outdoor recreation at Quiet Waters Park, and of course, plan to feast on crabs. It’s all an easy drive out Rt. 50 from DC.
Maritime Explorations
Where: Calvert Marine Museum | Calvert County, MD
When: Daily, 10am – 5pm
Admission: $9/adult, $4/ages 5-12, free/4 & under
Head out to Calvert County to explore the heritage and history of the Chesapeake Bay. The array of interesting exhibits at the Calvert Marine Museum includes display cases full of fossils and artifacts, plus live fish and other creatures. Reserve tickets in advance here. (PS: Pair this with a visit to Annmarie Sculpture Garden for a longer visit, even an overnight.)
Hiking & History
Where: Harpers Ferry
When: Ongoing
Admission: Free ($10 if you park in lot)
Get some fresh air and exercise as you enjoy spring weather and historic sites. Harpers Ferry is an easy day trip or quick getaway destination from DC, and spring is a great time to go. For more about a visit there, see this KFDC post.
Go Underground
Where: Luray Caverns
When: Ongoing, 9am – 7pm
Admission: $32/adults, $16/ages 6-12, 5 and under free
Behold the spectacular underground world of stalagmites, stalactites, and other amazing limestone formations in the massive cave system at Luray. Afterward, make your way through the Garden Maze or check out vintage rides in the Carriage and Caravan Museum. Admission does not include attractions beyond the cavern. KFDC Tip: Be sure to make a pit stop before going into the caverns, because it can be a long walk out to a restroom, and once you’re out, you may not be able to go back in.
Tramp & Camp
Where: Shenandoah National Park
When: Ongoing
Admission: $30/vehicle, campsites are extra & vary
Whether you go for a day or even several, Shenandoah National Park is a boon for outdoor recreation close to DC. If you can only swing a day, find some good trails to hike or even ride along Skyline Drive and take in the beautiful vistas from the car. If you can stay overnight, it’s a great place for a camping experience with kids. Either way, enjoy being immersed in nature and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings!
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Extra KFDC Tips
* For more suggestions to relish in the sublime spring weather, check out The Best Places in the DC Area to Spend a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids.
* If you’re looking specifically for rainy day activities, see over 100 ideas in The Great Indoors list.
* For active pursuits inside, see the round-up of Indoor Action.
* See what special museum programs are taking place during this time.
* If you’re considering a last minute Spring Break getaway, here are some ideas for easy trips from DC.
* Check for deals and discounts on TodayTix, Goldstar, and CertifiKID.
Artomatic is back! Maybe not ideal for tiny kids but lots of fun for elementary age and up. 2100 M St NW through April 28. Free.
Thanks for the heads-up!
Thank YOU for this awesome and comprehensive resource. I have told kid-free colleagues to check it out because you find so much good stuff.
🙂