This summer, Twizzlers is sending ten bloggers across the country to visit some great American landmarks as part of their Twizzlers Landmark Summer promotion. As each blogger completes their leg of the journey, we hope to encourage you to take your own road trips by giving you ideas on how to enjoy these landmark vacations with your own kids. Our first stop is our nation’s capital, Washington DC.
I am a firm believer that every family should visit Washington DC. I didn’t visit our nation’s capital for the first time until I was 22 years old, and my time there made me realize how more interesting history class would have been if I had made the journey about a decade earlier. If you are thinking about visiting Washington DC with kids and want to know the top things to see, museums you can’t miss, and hotels that cater to families, look no further.
MUST SEE MONUMENTS
How many historical speeches, rallies, and moments have been captured by film in front of the Lincoln Memorial? Why not add your kids making goofy faces for the camera to that list of iconic moments? Fun and games aside, this is monument honors one of our nation’s greatest presidents and having school aged children complete the Junior Ranger program while at this monument will help them learn about the man, his life, and his presidency.
Washington Monument: There is so much more to the Washington Monument that staring at it across the National Mall. A ride inside a special elevator to the observation deck at the top of the monument which offers some amazing DC views. Trekaroo Superoo fernswife warns that “by ten in the morning, most of the tickets are already spoken for, so plan to stop by and reserve your slot early in the morning. Tickets are free, but there is usually a long line waiting ahead of you to get in, so make sure to allot plenty of time to see the memorial.” The monument is another spot for your kids to learn while earning another coveted Junior Ranger badge.
Read about more great DC monuments your family should visit.
MUSEUMS YOUR FAMILY WON”T WANT TO MISS
National Air and Space Museum: Kids that love airplanes, rockets, or just have dreams of their own moments in the sky will love this free museum. Viewing the Wright Brother’s first plane in the same museum as modern airplanes and rockets definitely puts great perspective on 107 years of flight. Be sure to stop in the gift shop to check out the freeze dried astronaut food.
National Museum of Natural History: This massive Smithsonian museum houses galleries filled with dinosaurs, mammals, oceania, gemstones (Hope Diamond anyone?), and much, much more. Its easy to spend all day here, and the summer crowds can be a bit overwhelming, so plan your time here accordingly.
National Museum of American History: Dorothy’s ruby slippers. Oscar the Grouch. Kermit the Frog. Abe Lincoln’s stovepipe hat. What do all the icons have in common? They all call this museum housing important bits of Americana home. While some of the pop culture references in the museum may go over the head of some of the younger visitors, little ones will appreciate the hands-on Invention at Play section.
Read reviews of several other great Washington DC museums.
OTHER FUN STOPS IN DC
The White House: It is the most famous residence in America and has been home to presidential families since the early 1800s, so you why take your family to see how where the first family lives? Lines can be long for tours offered to the general public but Trekaroo Superoo, jennstec, offers some great advice- book a congressional visit through your local congressman’s office.
“Be sure to call WELL in advance to get this type of tour. They have limited availability and book quickly. They are free. When we arrived that morning (one hour early), we saw a ridiculously long line to the White House entrance. I asked a Park Ranger if this was the line for the Congressional tour. She said no, our entrance was literally AT the entrance. So we walked past this “public tour” line (which was about 2 hours long) and right into the White House. This tour is exclusive, so it is appropriate to dress up in your “Sunday best.””
This FREE zoo is the most popular DC attraction with Trekaroo members. Over 50 families have shared their zoo tips and experiences, and the majority give it 5 brilliantly orange stars. Strollers are recommend for exploring this 163 acre zoo with young children- you don’t want tots to poop out before you get a chance to see the pandas! Pack your own water and snacks because refreshments inside the zoo aren’t cheap and be sure to bring some money for parking, its one aspect of the zoo that is not free.
WHERE TO REST YOUR WEARY HEADS
There are several lodging options in DC, but not all are kid friendly. Here are some of Trekaroo family’s picks for top kid-friendly hotels in Washington DC:
Grand Hyatt at Metro Center: If you are looking for convenience, the Grand Hyatt is your hotel. The metro stops at the hotel so taking advantage of DC’s great public transportation system is a breeze. This large hotel (over 800 rooms) also features several restaurants and a service which will deliver baby gear and supplies right to your room, allowing you to travel light.
Hotel Palomar Washington DC: This boutique hotel located in Dupont Circle offers special touches that are sure make your stay memorable. Prizes out of a treasure chest upon check-in, afternoon popsicles, and milk and cookies delivered to your room are just some of the special touches that go a long way in the eyes of a child. Parents will love the luxury accommodations and multiple suite options which all them some alone time after the kids go to bed.
Read more reviews of kid friendly lodging in Washington DC.
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Sharlene Earnshaw (aka doubleadventure) is Blogger-in-chief for Trekaroo and the blogger behind Double the Adventure.
Travel with kids to: CA | CO | DC | FL | HI | IL | MA | NC | NY | OR | PA | TN | TX | VA | WA
One of the great things about living in the US is that we are such a heterogeneous society. I love that we live in a country where so many people from different ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds can live together in peace. When raising our children, it is important to make sure that they not only value their cultural background, but that they learn about and appreciate other cultures as well. I am always excited to expose my children to a new culture, whether it be through food, a museum exhibit, or personal interaction. Lydie, one of our Trekaroo Superoos , put together some fantastic lists
- Cross cultural experiences for kids in Los Angeles,
- Cross cultural experiences for kids in Washington DC
- Cross cultural experiences for kids in San Francisco
- Cross cultural experiences for kids in Pennsylvania
- Cross cultural experiences for kids in Texas
- Cross cultural experiences for kids in New York City.
Amish in Pennsylvnia - Photo by: flickr/Bob Jagendorf
Today I would like to spotlight an experience from each of the lists with the hope that you will follow the links to see what other great ideas Lydie has listed. Lets get started with LA!
In Los Angeles attend the Los Angeles Greek Festival. Lydie says: “The Greek Festival is held every year in September and you will have to check the calendar for the exact date. It is a wonderful opportunity to discover the Greek culture and food without having to endure a long flight. There are lots of activities for children to enjoy as well as a separate play area where they can have fun.” Want to see what else is on the list? Check out Los Angeles Cross Cultural Experiences for Kids.
In Washington DC don’t miss the Freer & Sackler Galleries. Lydie says “This is the place to go to embrace Asian culture in Washington DC. Do not miss the ImaginAsia events held on a regular basis. They will help children understand the Asian culture by participating in projects and activities.” Want to see what else is on the list? Check out Washington DC Cross Cultural Experiences for Kids.
In San Francisco be sure to visit the Contemporary Jewish Museum. Lydie says “This is actually one of my favorite museums in San Francisco. They have wonderful temporary exhibitions that will make you fall in love with the Jewish culture.” Want to see what else is on the list? Check out San Francisco Cross Cultural Experiences for Kids.
In Texas take the time to see The Women’s Museum, an Institiute for the Future. Lydie says “The exhibition ‘Freedom’s Sisters’ is running till July 4, 2010 will showcase the stories of Harriett Tubman, Rosa Parks and many more. Young girls of any race will feel empowered by their visit.” Want to see what else is on the list? Check out Texas Cross Cultural Experiences for Kids.
No visit to New York City is complete without seeing the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Lydie says “Ellis Island was the last step for European immigrants and the last wait before entering the United States in quest for a better life. By visiting this museum, children will have a better understanding of what Irish, British, Polish, German, French and others endured in the quest for a better life.” Want to see what else is on the list? Check out New York City Cross Cultural Experiences for Kids.
In Pennsylvania visit Amish Village. Lydie says: “You will get an insider’s view on how the Amish work and live. You will see the blacksmith shop, a central shop in the Amish culture, the livestock, the smokehouse, the village store etc and you will leave with a better understanding of their culture.” Want to see what else is on the list? Check out Pennsylvania Cross Cultural Experiences for Kids.
We hope these lists will inspire your family to explore a different culture. Now lets see where these bloggers and Trekaroo friends have been exploring lately…
Let’s see where the spotlight shines this week!
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Do you have an outing that you would like to spotlight this week? Perhaps its a post about a vacation you just took or a day trip that you think our readers should know about. Or maybe its a post about the vacation you are currently planning and going to book through Trekaroo! Spotlight your posts here by following the instructions here and filling out the Mr. Linky Form below.
Sharlene Earnshaw (aka doubleadventure) is Blogger-in-chief for Trekaroo – a review site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids and the woman behind Double the Adventure.
Travel with kids to: CA | CO | DC | FL | HI | IL | MA | NC | NY | PA | TN | TX | VA | WA
With Thanksgiving marking the start of the holidays, did you think that we folks at Trekaroo would be kicking back and working on our holiday travels? As the Obamas get ready to light up the Christmas tree in DC on Thursday, we’re lighting up DC on the Trekaroo map today!
Capitol Fun for Families. Credit: Flickr/ac1982
Why DC? Well, I always remember the first time that I came here with my parents and younger sister. I didn’t get to meet the President, but being inside the White House and Capitol Hill was like having my history class come to life. I remember being totally bummed because we kept getting lost in our search for the Supreme Court. Although, DC proper is only about 8 miles wide, the region stretches into the outer edges of Maryland and Virginia. With over 100 activities for kids of all ages to enjoy, Trekaroo brings you the District of Columbia – unplugged for kids.
So, what have we got?
- Over 100 Activities for kids in the Washington DC Metro Area
- Over 150 hotels in and around Washington DC that are waiting to be rated by families like you.
Here’s a summary of what the Trekaroo community’s is saying:
- Best Activiites for Kids in Washington DC – voted by parents
- Top Kid-friendly Hotels in Washington DC - voted by parents
Great lists created by the Trekaroo community:
- The Best Kid-friendly Hiking Trails in DC – HikingAlong
- Indoor Places for Toddlers Around Washington DC – SuburbanDaddy
- 8 Things (Under $5) to Do in Washington DC with Toddlers – Two Kids and A Map
- Fun Washington, D.C. Activities that get Kids Fired Up - Sujatha
- Day Trips with Kids From Washington DC – teachmama
- Must See Attractions in DC with Preteens and Teens – musingsfromme
- What to do with Tweens in Washington D.C. – MsTwixt
All of these lists have been contributed by DC area mom bloggers for our Trekaroo KidsMobile stop in DC today. KidsMobile is making a virtual tour of the US with local bloggers jumping on and off.
A special shout-out goes to Max’s Mom, jenc17, carolr, momof4girls, katy, and girlymama for their love of Washington DC and helping us build up DC’s content from the ground-up for this launch. Without them or my com padres at Trekaroo, we’d only be covering the Bay Area. Thank you, thank you, thank you times a million.
See you at a monument,
Esther Lee (thelees3) – CEO
P.S. To kick-off the new year, we’ve got a full line-up of new states to launch including Colorado, Utah, and North Carolina. If you’d like to help us get any of these states or your local area ready for lift-off, please email us at editor@trekaroo.com.
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Esther Lee is a contributing author on Trekaroo – a reviews site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids.
Travel with kids to: CA | FL | HI | MA | NY | PA | TX | VA and now IL and WA and DC
Washington D.C. holds a special place in the hearts and imaginations of both young and old. The city spills over with historical adventures and political fervor. The international nature of the city offers exciting opportunities for discovering new food and fun that your kid’s have never experienced before. Beyond the numerous options for enjoyment, the greatness of this destination is that many of the activities are free! Multiply that by the number of people in your family and it’s now Fabulously Free.
To help you navigate the many choices any visiting family faces in Washington D.C., we’ve compiled a list of hot spots based on what the Trekaroo community’s been saying.
#1 Place to take Kids: Leave the political zoo for some real monkey business at the National Zoo
Captivated by pandas. Credit: Flickr/wwworks
Washington D.C.’s most popular attractions among Trekaroo families, the National Zoo is also the best value in the capital with no charge for admission. The zoo is easily accessible by the metro, which will add to the adventure for the kids and avoid expensive parking fees. At the zoo you’ll be captivated by the two most prominent residents: gorillas and pandas. If reptiles are more your child’s animal of choice, then don’t miss the komodo dragons.
Best Museum - Prehistoric Imagining at the National Museum of Natural History
While the National Zoo is a great place to get your fill of the animal kingdom, there’s nothing quite like the colossal dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural History. You don’t have to be an aspiring paleontologist to appreciate the Museum of Natural History. The museum is much more than dinosaur fossils. You just may find your T-rex obsessed five year old finding a new interest in the deep water world found in the new Global Ocean Systems undersea exhibit.
Best View in Town - Soar into the DC sky at the Washington Monument
Any visit to the nation’s capital must include a tour through the monuments. Washington D.C.’s most prominent and possibly the most interesting for youngsters is the Washington Monument, which takes you nearly 500 feet in the air for a spectacular view of the city. The lines can be long, so arrive early or purchase tickets in advance for a small fee. While you’re there, don’t forget to walk by the nearby reflecting pond en route to Lincoln’s Memorial.
Best Neighborhood – Take a trip across the river to Old Town Alexandria, VA
One of the most interesting neighborhoods in the D.C. metro area is Old Town Alexandria. With its classic colonial architecture and abundance of unique shops and restaurants, although many of the eateries are on the pricey side. If packing a lunch is an option, sit down for a bite at one of Alexandria’s beautiful parks and enjoy the atmosphere (and the play structures). The history is not just in the edifices; the past 250 years of the area are well documented in museums scattered throughout the town. For a truly local appeal, visit the Saturday Farmer’s Market that take place every week in the morning.
Outdoor Hotspot – For a journey beyond the usual, visit Theodore Roosevelt Island
Theodore Roosevelt Island is a fitting tribute to one of the United States’ most nature-friendly presidents. Sitting in the middle of the Potomac, the island is traversed by 2.5 miles of walking trails. There is a variety of wildlife to see, such as box turtles, squirrels and snakes. The island isn’t filled with historical placards, but in the island’s center is a monument to Teddy Roosevelt. Being off the radar of most Washington D.C. visitors, the island is one of the few monuments without monumental crowds.
Hiking Heaven – Rock Creek Park is a gem
Rock Creek ranks among the best of inner city parks. There are all kinds of ways to take in the outdoor air through walking, biking, boating, or even a gallop on the back of a horse. Beyond the natural beauty and fun of Rock Creek Park, there is some human-made activity as well. The Nature Center has an area geared towards kids with many hands-on activities. After discovering the Earthly realm, stop by the planetarium for intriguing exhibits for all levels of star gazers. A great break for kids from the museum route.
Let's Play Ball. Credit: Flickr/fredosan
Favorite Sporting Event - A Washington Nationals game
Nothing says USA like Baseball. So why not catch America’s dearest sport in the Nation’s Capital? A Washington Nationals game makes for a fun day at the park, filled with hot dogs and foul balls. Sundays are a special day at the Nationals’ stadium where kids can get player’s signatures and run the bases after the game. They may even get to meet Screech the Eagle, the Nationals’ mascot.
Which Hotels came up at the top?
Top Kid-friendly Hotels in Washington DC – voted by parents
Other Resources for Washington DC:
- All 100 Activities for kids in the Washington DC Metro Area
- Kid-friendly hotels in and around Washington DC
- The Best Kid-friendly Hiking Trails in DC – HikingAlong
- Indoor Places for Toddlers Around Washington DC – SuburbanDaddy
- 8 Things (Under $5) to Do in Washington DC with Toddlers – Two Kids and A Map
- Fun Washington, D.C. Activities that get Kids Fired Up - Sujatha
- Day Trips with Kids From Washington DC – teachmama
- Must See Attractions in DC with Preteens and Teens – musingsfromme
- What to do with Tweens in Washington D.C. – MsTwixt
Stephen Wanta is a contributing writer for Trekaroo – a reviews site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids.
Travel with kids to: CA | FL | HI | MA | NY | PA | TX | VA and now IL and WA
Washington DC is a destination that families love because of it’s amazing free museums and famous buildings. When visiting with kids, what are the best hotels to stay at? You could choose to stay just outside the downtown area near a metro stop or stay in within walking distance to The Mall, White House and other major attractions. With young kids, you might want to stay close enough to take afternoon breaks. Trekaroo families have voted their favorite hotels for 2009. Here are the winners:
# 1 Top Family-Friendly Hotel with Great Kid Perks: Hotel Palomar
Hotel Palomar welcomes your child with special treats – from fun packs to popsicles in the afternoon to milk and cookies in the evening. Trekaroo families also loved the Wine and Wii hour and the simple but clean pool. With a variety of rooms to choose from, you could pick a suite to have some privacy from the kids. The in-house restaurant is excellent. The Palomar is also located within walking distance to all of Washington DC’s major attractions. Their Discover the District Package offers families executive accommodation that will fit up to a family of 5 plus little perks like Kids Eat Dinner Free at the Urbana Restaurant plus a free in-room movie with popcorn. Rooms start at $239/night.
Read the full reviews from families on the Hotel Palomar | Check for Deals and Availability
#2 Great Service and Excellent Location: Grand Hyatt Washington DC (Center)
The location of the Grand Hyatt cannot be beat with a metro stop right in the lobby and within a short 10 minute walk to the Mall and other major attractions. It’s wonderful location makes it possible for families to take a break in the middle of the day and to get to attractions with minimal hassle. Trekaroo families found the staff very attentive. The wide range of choices for breakfast is also a big hit. The nicely appointed rooms make for a comfortable stay. Rates start at $166/night
Read the full reviews from families on Grand Hyatt Washington DC (Center) | Check for Availability
#3: Best Hotel with Free Parking: Hawthorn Suites Alexandria
If you’re driving and don’t want to spend a ton on parking, consider staying away from downtown Washington DC in Alexandria at the Hawthorne Suites. This hotel offers free parking along with their suite rooms complete with a full kitchenette. A hotel shuttle takes guests to the nearest metro stop so you can avoid driving downtown if you wish. This hotel even has a pool with life guard on duty. Within a few miles, you can explore charming Old Town Alexandria. Rates start at $109/night
Read the full reviews on Hawthorne Suites in Alexandria | Check Availability
Which Activities came up at the top?
Best Activities for Kids in Washington DC – voted by parents
Other Resources for Washington DC:
- All 100 Activities for kids in the Washington DC Metro Area
- Kid-friendly hotels in and around Washington DC
- The Best Kid-friendly Hiking Trails in DC – HikingAlong
- Indoor Places for Toddlers Around Washington DC – SuburbanDaddy
- 8 Things (Under $5) to Do in Washington DC with Toddlers – Two Kids and A Map
- Fun Washington, D.C. Activities that get Kids Fired Up - Sujatha
- Day Trips with Kids From Washington DC – teachmama
- Must See Attractions in DC with Preteens and Teens – musingsfromme
- What to do with Tweens in Washington D.C. – MsTwixt
LiLing Pang is a contributing author on Trekaroo – a reviews site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids.
Travel with kids to: CA | FL | HI | MA | NY | PA | TX | VA and now IL and WA
