JULY
Family Adventures in Washington, D.C. This July
As the summer sun blankets the nation’s capital, Washington, DC bursts with activities perfect for families looking to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a local parent or visiting the city, July offers a plethora of exciting opportunities to engage and entertain kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. Let’s dive into some of the best things to do in DC with your little ones this month!
1. National Mall Adventures The iconic National Mall isn’t just for history buffs—it’s a playground for kids too! Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Natural History, where dinosaurs and gemstones captivate young imaginations. Nearby, the National Air and Space Museum promises an out-of-this-world experience with its rockets and flight simulators. Don’t forget a picnic on the Mall’s grassy expanse, with views of the Washington Monument and Capitol Building.
2. Smithsonian’s National Zoo A perennial favorite, the Smithsonian National Zoo offers a wild adventure in the heart of DC. Meet giant pandas, playful otters, and majestic lions as you wander through beautifully landscaped exhibits. The Kids’ Farm is a hit with toddlers, where they can pet gentle farm animals and learn about rural life. Best of all, admission is free, making it a budget-friendly outing for families.
3. Splash Parks and Playgrounds July in DC means heat, and what better way to cool down than at one of the city’s splash parks? Yards Park and Canal Park are popular choices, offering interactive fountains and water features that guarantee hours of wet and wild fun. Meanwhile, playgrounds like Turtle Park and Clemyjontri Park cater to toddlers with safe, age-appropriate play structures.
4. Riverboat Rides Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a riverboat cruise along the Potomac River. Companies like Potomac Riverboat Company and DC Cruises offer family-friendly tours that highlight DC’s waterfront landmarks, including the Jefferson Memorial and Georgetown Waterfront. Some tours even feature narration geared towards younger audiences, adding an educational twist to your aquatic adventure.
5. Picnics and Outdoor Concerts Take advantage of DC’s beautiful summer weather by packing a picnic and heading to one of the city’s many parks. Meridian Hill Park’s cascading fountains and drum circles provide a lively backdrop, while Rock Creek Park offers serene trails and hidden waterfalls. Throughout July, catch free outdoor concerts at venues like the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage or the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden, where kids can dance and groove to live music under the stars.
6. Story Times and Workshops Libraries and museums across DC host engaging story times, workshops, and hands-on activities designed specifically for children. Check out the DC Public Library’s schedule for themed story hours and craft sessions, or visit the Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater for interactive performances that bring history and culture to life.
7. Fourth of July Festivities Celebrate Independence Day with a bang! DC hosts one of the country’s most spectacular July 4th celebrations, complete with a parade along Constitution Avenue and a dazzling fireworks display over the National Mall. Stake out a spot early, bring a blanket, and prepare to be awed by the patriotic fervor and stunning pyrotechnics.
Plan Your Perfect July in DC With so much to see and do, July in Washington, DC promises endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of the Smithsonian museums, splashing in cooling waters, or enjoying a picnic in the park, each experience adds to the tapestry of memories you’ll create with your little ones. Embrace the spirit of summer and discover why DC is not just a political hub, but also a playground waiting to be explored with wide-eyed wonder.
Pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready for a July in DC that your family will cherish for years to come!
SONGBIRD | KENNEDY CENTER: Washington, DC
Reservations are required | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
ISEKAI | BLOOMING PARALLEL WORLDS - ARTECHOUSE: Washington, DC
Tickets are required | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
NATIONAL ZOO: Washington, DC
Reservations are required | Admission is free | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
UNITED STATE BOTANIC GARDENS: Washington, DC
Reservations are not required | Admission is free | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
INTERNATIONAL SPY MUSEUM: Washington, DC
Tickets are required | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
BEST GEORGETOWN GUIDE: Washington, DC
Reserve a time for your family to explore the historical Georgetown neighborhood | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
ROCK CREEK PARK: Washington, DC
Explore the endless views in nature with the family | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
TOP RATED MUSEUMS: Washington, DC
Take advantage of fewer lines and busy museums | Free admission | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
LEESBURG ANIMAL PARK: Leesburg, VA
Reservations are required | Petting farm & farmers market | Admission is $17.00+ per person | Suitable for all ages | Learn more
BEYOND THE LIGHT AT ARTECHOUSE: Washington, DC
Must purchase tickets, free admission for ages under 4 | Recommended for all ages | Learn more
NATIONAL BUILDING MUSEUM: Washington, DC
Thursday - Monday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm | Must purchase tickets, free admission for ages under 3 | Recommended for all ages | Learn more
DISCOVER CENTER: Washington, DC
Monday - Saturday from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm and Sunday from 11:00 am - 6:00 pm | Must purchase tickets | Recommended for ages 4 + | Learn more
THE YARDS PARK LIGHTS: Washington, DC
Monday - Sunday from 7:00 am - 10:00 pm | Recommended for all ages | Learn more
FAMILY STORY: MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MEMORIAL LIBRARY, DC
Every Saturday from 11:00 am - 11:30 am | Recommended for ages 0 - 5 | Learn more
ART AND MOVEMENT: MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MEMORIAL LIBRARY, DC
Every Wednesday from 10:00 am - 10:30 am | Recommended for ages 0 - 5 | Learn more
SUNDAY PLAY DATE: MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MEMORIAL LIBRARY, DC
Every Sunday from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Recommended for ages 1 - 5 | Learn more
STEAM STORY TIME: AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, DC
Every Thursday from 10:30 am - 11:00 am | Recommended for ages 1 - 4 | Learn more
BABY JAM: AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, DC
Every Friday at 10:30 am | Recommended for ages 0-3 | Learn more
PLAYDATE: AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, DC
Every day except Tuesday from 9:30 am - 4:30 pm | Recommended for ages 0+ | Learn more
FLEA MARKET AT EASTERN MARKET, DC
Every Sunday until March 2025 from 9:00 - 4:30 pm | Recommended for all ages | Learn more
