Happy New Year
January Family Fun in Washington, DC |
Visiting Washington, DC in January with toddlers and young kids? Don’t worry about winter chill — the city is packed with indoor (and mild outdoor) family adventures that make planning your trip simple and joyful. ❄️
Whether you’re looking for playful indoor spaces, iconic museums, theatrical experiences, or free community events, we’ve rounded up the best activities — all easy to pair with your Rent a Buggy gear rental!
Must‑See Seasonal Events (Limited Time in January):
Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! — National Theatre
A kid‑centered stage show based on the beloved animated series. Perfect for a mid‑day family outing. Washington DC
🎟️ Dates: Jan. 21–22
📍 National Theatre – Downtown DC
🔗 Tickets & info: National Theatre Washington DC
NSO Music for Young Audiences — Kennedy Center
Introduce little ones to live music with animals and stories! Washington DC
📅 Jan. 24–25
📍 John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
🔗 Show details: Kennedy Center Events Washington DC
Winter Skate Spectacular — National Building Museum
Indoor ice skating with flexible time slots. Great activity to burn energy indoors! Washington DC
📍 National Building Museum
🔗 Info & tickets: Building Museum Winter Skate Washington DC
Top Indoor Attractions Kids (and Parents) Love
Washington, DC has world‑class museums and interactive spaces — many perfect for little explorers.
Smithsonian & Interactive Favorites
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – Dinos, gems, oceans and more — huge space for toddlers and kids.
National Children's Museum – Designed for kids with engaging, playful exhibits.
Wegmans Wonderplace – Play area in the Smithsonian American History Museum perfect for preschoolers.
United States Botanic Garden – Wandering paths and plant displays that feel like an indoor nature walk.
Hands‑On and Playcenters
Magic Ground – Indoor play space ideal for toddlers and preschoolers.
Jolly Yolly Kids Bethesda – Fun indoor playground (great for rainy or cold days).
Recess Play Centers – Play and social time in Silver Spring.
The Little Towns – Highly rated learning play center for young families.
Hyper Kidz Alexandria & Scramble Alexandria – Indoor play zones just outside DC — perfect for a half‑day adventure.
Fun for Older Kids & Family Challenges
Beat The Bomb DC – Whimsical, colorful high‑energy escape‑room‑style challenge.
Museum of Illusions Washington DC – Visual puzzles and photos perfect for older kids and family fun.
(Tip: Not all attractions are suitable for toddlers — check age recommendations before booking.)
Unique One‑Off Experiences
Seasonal Exhibits & Free Community Days
Grab free‑or‑low‑cost experiences like seasonal exhibits at local museums or community days where kids get in without tickets. Old Town Trolley Tours
Free & Budget‑Friendly Options
Curated events for families — especially great with young children:
Library Storytimes and Workshops
Local public libraries in Arlington, Alexandria and beyond host weekly story times, crafts, and toddler‑friendly programming throughout January — check individual branch calendars near your stay. Washington Parent
First Saturday at National Gallery of Art
Early January activity with free family programs and art workshops. Kids Out and About DMV
Cold Weather Tips for Families
January in DC is typically cold and sometimes snowy, especially early in the month — so indoor plans are essential! The Washington Post
Pro Tips:
✔ Always carry a warm layer even indoors (museums can be cool).
✔ Check event reservation requirements (many timed‑entry exhibits require tickets).
✔ Rent a durable stroller with Rent a Buggy — perfect for navigating museums and indoor attractions with ease.
How Rent a Buggy Supports DC Families & Visitors
Lightweight strollers & wagons for exploring monuments, museums, and festivals.
Cribs & high chairs delivered to hotels or Airbnbs in Dupont, Capitol Hill, Georgetown, and more.
Car seats for families renting cars or taking day trips.
Local expertise: Based right here in Washington, DC — we know the best ways to keep family travel easy.
Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons to visit Washington, DC, and it’s full of activities for families with kids of all ages. Whether you’re painting pumpkins in Georgetown, strolling through the Arboretum, or enjoying a museum day, Rent a Buggy helps you travel light and stress-free.
👉 Reserve your stroller, crib, or car seat today and explore DC this fall with ease.
