All of the Smithsonian museums offer wonderful ways to keep kids engaged, whether it’s special exhibits, hands-on stations, or kid-friendly areas. But there are definitely two standouts when it comes to visiting with children: the National Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of American History.
Even though the American History Museum is one of the most visited spots on the National Mall, my kids never get tired of it. In fact, it’s the one they ask to go back to again and again!
We’ve visited the National Museum of American History at least half a dozen times, and every visit brings something new. From interactive exhibits to iconic artifacts, here are my kids’ absolute favorites inside the museum.
1) Wegman's Wonderplace at American History Museum
This is truly amazing! It feels like a real museum (because it is!) with paintings and artifacts behind child-safe glass and at their eye level. It is created for ages 0-6 and is perfect for babies and toddlers! Complete with bathrooms and a nursing room in the back and a gate with volunteers keeping kids inside. My favorite feature has to be the amazing kid-sized replica of Julia Childs’ Kitchen!
Free: Open Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Hours subject to change. For ages 0-6.
2) Places of Invovation
Highly recommend “Places of Innovation” where you travel to the Bronx to learn DJing, Silicon Valley to make your own icon on an old Mac and other spots around the country. More in this Instagram Reel here!
3) America on the Move
This exhibit on the Main Level in the East Wing is a wonderful place to explore! Toddlers will love going inside the huge train and subway cars. Elementary Kids will love the variety of vehicles and Teens will enjoy the retro vans and even a (gasp!) Plymouth Voyager van!
4) Bonus: Spark!Lab has re-opened!
From their website: "Draper Spark!Lab is open in a limited capacity on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Visit https://americanhistory.si.edu/visit for hours and more information."
Spark!Lab is a maker-creator space with tons of hands-on activities and experiments. Located right next to Wegman's Wonderplace for ages 6-12.
Visiting with out of town guests? I have a blog post with all my tips and below are my favorite hotels for families:
(I am affiliate for Booking and VRBO and these are affiliate links below)
- Residence Inn Washington DC/Capitol - Our Top Pick for a Family-Friendly D.C. Hotel with Spacious Family Suites
- Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf - The Most Convenient Family-Friendly Hotel in Washington, D.C.
- Willard Hotel - My pick for top luxury hotel with that Washington, DC feel!
- VRBO has some great DC vacation rentals with fabulous recommendations. I really recommend their customer service.
And full write ups at this blog post 12 Best DC Family Friendly Hotels from Washington Local.
And check out 19 more amazing Museums for Kids in DC!
