Introduction
Spending a full week in Washington, DC, gives your family the ultimate opportunity to explore the city’s world-class museums at a comfortable pace. With seven days, you can experience a mix of history, science, art, and hands-on exhibits, plus enjoy some lesser-known hidden gems.
As a professional tour guide, I’ve designed this itinerary to ensure a balanced blend of structured exploration and free time. Whether your kids are fascinated by space, dinosaurs, spies, or American history, this seven-day adventure offers something exciting every day! Plus, I’ve included expense details to help you plan your budget. Let’s begin!
Key Points
Day 1: Iconic Smithsonian Museums
Morning – National Museum of Natural History (Free)
Why start here? The excitement of dinosaurs and sparkling gems makes for an engaging first stop.
Must-see exhibits:
- Hall of Fossils – Deep Time: Towering dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures.
- Hope Diamond: A world-famous, dazzling blue gem.
- Live Insect Zoo & Butterfly Pavilion: (Butterfly Pavilion is free on Tuesdays, otherwise $8 per person.)
Pro tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and let kids take turns leading the way.
Midday – National Air and Space Museum (Free)
Why visit? Real-life spacecraft and interactive flight experiences await!
Must-see exhibits:
- Apollo 11 Command Module: The capsule that went to the moon.
- Wright Brothers’ Flyer: The first successful airplane.
- Flight Simulators ($8 per ride): Fun for kids dreaming of flying!
Afternoon – National Museum of American History (Free)
Why visit? A treasure trove of pop culture, inventions, and historic artifacts.
Must-see exhibits:
- The Star-Spangled Banner: The flag that inspired the U.S. national anthem.
- Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers: A magical moment from The Wizard of Oz.
- America on the Move: Interactive transportation history.
Day 2: Interactive Fun & Indigenous Culture
Morning – Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian (Free)
Why visit? A beautifully designed museum exploring Indigenous cultures.
Must-see exhibits:
- Our Universes: Native storytelling and traditions.
- Mitsitam Café: A must-visit for Indigenous-inspired cuisine.
Midday – National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden (Free)
Why visit? A peaceful outdoor space filled with unique sculptures.
Must-see exhibits:
- Giant Typewriter Eraser: A quirky, oversized sculpture.
- Fountain area: A great spot to relax or cool off (seasonal).
Afternoon – International Spy Museum ($26.95 adults, $16.95 ages 7-12, free for under 6)
Why visit? An interactive experience where kids can play real spies!
Must-see exhibits:
- Undercover Missions: Assume a secret identity and complete spy tasks.
- Laser Maze Challenge: Test agility and quick thinking.
Day 3: Hands-On Exploration & Outdoor Adventures
Morning – National Building Museum ($10 adults, $7 ages 3-17)
Why visit? A museum that transforms architecture and design into playtime.
Must-see exhibits:
- Play Work Build: Giant foam blocks for young builders.
- Building Zone: A construction-themed play area for kids under 10.
Midday – The Wharf (Lunch & Exploration) (Varies by activity)
Why visit? A waterfront area with food, entertainment, and boat tours.
Must-do activities:
- Water Taxi Ride ($15 per ride): A unique way to see the city.
- Fresh seafood: Try the city’s famous crab cakes!
Afternoon – The National Zoo (Free, parking $30-$35 if driving)
Why visit? Home to giant pandas, elephants, and more!
Must-see exhibits:
- Giant Pandas: A must-see favorite!
- Amazonia Exhibit: Explore a rainforest environment indoors.
Day 4: Art & Cultural Exploration
Morning – Smithsonian’s Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (Free)
Why visit? A great introduction to modern and contemporary art.
Must-see exhibits:
- Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrors: A dazzling experience.
- Outdoor Sculpture Garden: Walk through interactive pieces.
Midday – National Museum of African American History and Culture (Free, but timed-entry tickets required)
Why visit? A powerful, engaging exploration of African American history.
Must-see exhibits:
- Sports Gallery: Celebrate legendary Black athletes.
- Interactive historical exhibits.
Afternoon – Planet Word Museum (Pay-what-you-wish, suggested donation $15)
Why visit? A unique museum dedicated to words, language, and storytelling.
Must-see exhibits:
- Whispering Willow Tree: A magical storytelling experience.
- Wordplay activities: Fun language-based interactive exhibits.
Day 5: History & Nature Walks
Morning – National Archives Museum (Free)
Why visit? See the nation’s founding documents up close.
Must-see exhibits:
- Declaration of Independence
- The U.S. Constitution
Afternoon – Tidal Basin Walk & Jefferson Memorial (Free)
Why visit? A scenic and peaceful way to explore DC.
Pro tip: Rent a paddleboat for added fun!
Day 6: Space & Aviation Adventure
Morning – Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (Air & Space Museum Annex, Virginia) (Free, parking $15)
Why visit? A massive aviation museum housing famous aircraft.
Must-see exhibits:
- Space Shuttle Discovery
- SR-71 Blackbird (Fastest jet ever built!)
Day 7: Choose Your Own Adventure
Options based on family interests:
- Library of Congress (Free): Stunning architecture and history.
- The Phillips Collection ($16 adults, free for 18 and under): America’s first modern art museum.
- Rock Creek Park Nature Center (Free): Outdoor adventure and planetarium shows.
Conclusion
Seven days in DC allows for an incredible, well-rounded adventure, blending major museums, interactive learning, and hidden gems. By pacing your trip well, you’ll ensure plenty of memorable moments while keeping kids engaged and parents stress-free!
Which museum experience was your family’s favorite?