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United States Washington DC

Why You Should Add DC’s National Children’s Museum to Your Itinerary!

National Children's Museum

When I mapped out our 4 day Washington, DC Itinerary, the National Children’s Museum was no where on my radar.  Boy…am I glad we veered away from our original plan and made the decision to visit the National Children’s Museum.  In a word, it was amazing!  Honestly, it was exactly what my kids needed to experience to help break up the monotony of visiting museums and monuments.  It gave them an opportunity to let off some steam and be kids.

The National Children’s Museum sparks curiosity in STEAM for children ages 12 and under.  STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities help develop soft skills (creativity, problem-solving, collaboration), increase engagement and motivation, and help personalize learning experiences for children.  The activities help capture their interest in fun, engaging, and innovative ways.

Pro-Tip:  Sensory backpacks are available to borrow at no cost.  They include noise-reduction headphones as well as fidgets to help ease sensory stimulation.  There is also a quiet room on-site.

Exhibits at the National Children's Museum

Dream Machine

The centerpiece of the museum is the Dream Machine, a massive three-story climber and slide designed for kids 5 and up.  The Dream Machine is a futuristic play space consisting of space-like orbs, climbing nets, and a fun, twisty slide.  The Dream Machine is wheelchair accessible at multiple points.

The Dream Machine Source: Nationalchildrensmuseum.org

The play structure, inspired by clouds, encourages kids to slide, crawl, climb, and explore the structure.  It encourages them to use their imagination while testing their balance, strength and agility.  Children learn problem solving, risk management, planning, motor fitness and spatial and directional awareness all while having fun!

Little Dreamers

This zone was designed for children 0-3.  Little ones can take flight in this cloud and aviation themed area.  Kiddos can engage in sight and sound exploration and develop gross and fine motor skills.  They work on discovering light and shadow, using their imagination, exploring their senses and testing their limitations. 

Innovation Sandbox exhibit at the National Children's Museum

Innovation Sandbox

Our oldest couldn’t get enough of this interactive exhibit!  In this super fun weather inspired interactive exhibit, kids have the opportunity to shoot bolts of lightning, make it rain, create clouds, and more in this technology forward space.  How is this possible, you might ask?  With a little magic, green screen technology and the simple wave of the hand!

Kids learn cause and effect, decision making, and how their actions are connected to others and the world.

Art + Tech

This fun, interactive space is presented by Nickelodeon.  Kids can join SpongeBob SquarePants and the PAW Patrol Crew and learn about building, design, aerodynamics, probability, and light and shadow.

Oh…and of course, there’s slime!  Don’t worry, it’s amazingly mess free!  The Slime Fun House allows visitors to explore and experience the iconic green gook without getting messing.

In the PAW Patrol Rescue Training section, kids can fight art-fully represented “fires” with Marshall, join Rubble in constructing buildings and create flying machines with the one and only Skye

Data Science Alley

This section, presented by Amazon, is designed for kids 5 to 12.  Data Science Alley features a super fun, playful scatter plot where visitors use a magnetic disk to track how high they can jump.

Our kids favorite part was a Pom Pom Poll which is a playful twist on the classic pneumatic-tube system.  The drop a pom pom into a tube and watch it travel up to the ceiling before dropping to the ground.

Little Movers

This is another space designed with littles in mind.  Kids 0-3 can enjoy this free-movement play space that encourages kids to build gross and fine motor skills.

The Engineering Games + Play Exhibit at the National Children's Museum Source: Nationalchildrensmuseum.org

Engineering Games + Play

Another one of our favorite parts of the National Children’s Museum was the Engineering Games + Play section.  Here, kids could design, build, and race vehicles down an adjustable track.  

There are also several sports themed STEAM activities like shooting a basketball with a wind machine, scoring a homerun, and more.

Tinkers Studio

The creative hub of the National Children’s Museum is presented by Microsoft.  In the space, kids are encouraged to design, create, build, and play based off the of the skills they have acquired in the museum.  

Plan Your Visit the National Children's Museum

The museum is open every day except Tuesdays from 9:30 until 4:30.  It is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

The cost of admission is $15.95 per person for ages 1 and older.  

Children under 1 are free.

The National Children’s Museum is located at:

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20004

The National Children’s Museum is located at the exit of the Federal Triangle Metro Station or 3 blocks from Metro Center.  

Nearby bus routes include 30N, 30S, 32, 33, 34, 36, D6, and P6.

If you’re arriving by car, parking is limited.  The are parking garages nearby that offer paid parking.

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United States Washington DC

The New and Improved Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Exploring the Planets Gallery at National Air and Space Museum

Did you know that the National Air and Space Museum is one of the most popular museums in the world?  The museum is so large that its collection is actually housed in two locations one in Chantilly, Virginia and the other in Washington, DC.  In this post, we’ll be discussing the DC location.

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum has undergone a massive overhaul and re-opened their doors in October of 2022.  Eight newly renovated galleries are now open.  The remaining galleries are expected to be unveiled in 2025.  The new exhibits invite visitors to explore air and space in new, interactive, and exciting ways.  We can’t wait to visit again once the museum is completely open to see what this masterpiece evolves into!  It is definitely a must-see if you’re in the Washington, DC area.

History of the National Air and Space Museum

The Air and Space Museum was established in 1946.  It opened its main building on the National Mall in 1976.  In 2018, the museum had 6.2 million visitors, making it the 5th most visited museum in the world, and the second most visited in the United States.  The museum includes iconic pieces such as the Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia, the Friendship 7 capsule, Lindbergh’s the Spirit of St. Louis, and the Wright brothers’ Wright Flyer.

In March of 2022, the museum closed for six months for renovations and to make way for the future three-story Jeff Bezos Learning Center. 

The Eight Brand New Exhibits Featured at the National Air and Space Museum

The Wright Brothers & The Invention of the Aerial Age

Wilbur and Orville Wright, the invertors of the airplane, completely opened up the world to the masses and helped changed the course of history.

The Wright Brothers & the Invention of the Aerial Age introduces visitors to the Wright Brothers and outlines their achievements and how they accomplished them.  The highlight of the gallery is the 1903 Wright Flyer.  There are other relics that belonged to the brothers including a stopwatch, the 1900 Wright Glider, and other full-scale models.

1903 Wright Flyer designed by Wilbur and Orville Wright

Early Flight

Between the Wright Brothers first flight in 1903 and the outbreak of World War I in 1914, the airplane evolved into an extraordinary machine that would help shape the future.  This exhibit uses artifacts such as the Lilienthal Glider, the 1909 Wright Military Flyer and other displays to show how humans continued to push the boundaries of air travel and how aircraft evolved over time. 

America by Air

An aerial view of the America by Air Exhibit at the National Air and Space Museum

The America by Air exhibit follows the journey of commercial aviation in the United States.  The exhibit shows how the federal government helped shape the airline industry, showcases the evolution in technology and outlines how the flying experience has changed over the decades.  

Our kids favorite part of the exhibit was getting to step inside actual airplanes and see how they’ve changed.

One World Connected

The One World Connected exhibit shows how humans have taken to the skies and stars, launched satellites,  changed the way we communicate, and became a global society.  The exhibit features an array of satellites and tools that have opened the doors for human connection.   

The exhibit shows how we use satellite technology for things beyond communicating with people on the other side of the planet and with astronauts.  It also shows how we use satellites to listen to music, watch television, track animals, monitor the ozone, view changes in our landscapes, and for wildlife conservation.

One World Connected exhibit at Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum

Destination Moon

Destination Moon Exhibit at the National Air and Space Museum

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Air and Space Museum without an exhibit about the moon.  This exhibit celebrates America’s journey to the moon by sharing the technologies that made Neil Armstrong’s 1969 lunar landing possible.

The exhibit features iconic objects like Neil Armstrong’s Apollo spacesuit, the Gemini VII Capsule, Apollo 11 Command Command Module, and so much more.

This was probably our favorite exhibit in the museum because it included so many iconic pieces and offered a glimpse into the lives on astronauts.

Kenneth C. Griffin Exploring the Planets Gallery

This exhibit is awesome!  It is vibrant, colorful, interactive, and totally kid-friendly!  The exhibit highlights all of the planets that circle our sun and demonstrates how exploring these far-off places helps us better understand our home planet.  

It features many cool artifacts such as a stardust capsule, Mars Rover Curiosity, Mars Pathfinder and random things like Spock’s ears from Star Trek.

Exploring the Planets Gallery at National Air and Space Museum

Thomas W. Haas We All Fly

The We All Fly exhibit demonstrates how aviation has impacted our society as a whole.  It explores general aviation, sport aviation, and careers available in the aviation world.  It includes several planes and helicopters including a Lear Jet 23, Aviation Specialties Unlimited Challenger III and Cirrus SR22.

Nation of Speed

This exhibit was a bit unexpected, considering it’s an Air and Space Museum.  The Nation of Speed is centered around human ingenuity and American’s desire to become the fasted on the land, sea, air and space.  It features iconic vehicles such as Mario Andretti’s Indy 500 winning race car, a 1906 motorcycle, Evel Knievel memorabilia, and more.

Plan Your Visit to the National Air and Space Museum

Location of the DC Museum

6th Street and Independence Ave SW
Washington, DC 20560
Please Note: The only public entrance is on Independence Ave

Hours

10:00 am to 5:30 pm
Open every day except December 25

Reserve at Timed Entry Pass
  • Free timed-entry passes are required for all visitors, regardless of age
  • Up to six free timed-entry passes can be booked for your visit.
  • If you are reserving for a group of 10 or more, you’ll need to book via the group reservations page.
  • Passes are released in six-week blocks.  
  • A limited number of same-day passes are released online every morning at 8:30 am.
  • Prepare to wait outside for your timed-entry.  Plan accordingly for the weather as you will not be allowed in the museum prior to your timed-entry.

What is There to do Nearby?

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United States Washington DC

11 Must-See Abraham Lincoln Sites in Washington, DC

Lincoln Memorial- Washington, DC

In this article, we’ll explore Lincoln Sites in Washington, DC.  It is at these eleven sites where visitors can learn, connect, further understand, and celebrate the legacy of our nation’s sixteenth President, Abraham Lincoln

Lincoln will forever be known as one of the most remarkable leaders our country has ever seen.  So, it’s no surprise that there are nods to his presidency sprinkled throughout the nation’s capital.  These Lincoln Sites in Washington are a must-see for not only Lincoln fans, but also fans of American history.  Oh…and don’t forget your top hat!

Lincoln Sites in Washington, DC

New York Avenue Presbyterian Church

Less than 1/2 a mile away from the White House you’ll find New York Avenue Presbyterian Church.  The Lincoln family worshipped here from the time he took office until his death in 1865.  

When the Lincoln’s attended the church, it was brand new.  The Colonial Revival style church had the tallest steeple in the city.  The steeple was severely damaged in a storm.  Mary Harlan Lincoln, the widow of president’s son Robert, paid to have the steeple rebuilt.

The original structure was demolished in 1951, and replaced with a similar structure.  Outside of the church, you can still see the president’s hitching post.  The bells for the new church were a gift from Mary Lincoln Isham, one of Lincoln’s granddaughters.

Inside, you’ll find the family pew, a Lincoln stained glass window, an early emancipation document, and other memorabilia.  

White House

After Lincoln’s inauguration on March 4, 1861, the Lincoln family lived on the second floor of the White House.  

By the time the Lincoln’s moved into the residence, the home needed to undergo renovations. Congress approved $20,000 for the home to be revamped. The First Lady purchased new carpets, draperies, wallpaper, furnishings, china, books, and modernized the plumbing, heating, and lighting.  It was a massive, and costly, undertaking.  She exceeded the budget by nearly 30%.

The State Dining Room is where Lewis and Clark planned out their expedition of west. Since 1809, it has served as a dining room for as many as 140 guests. It features an infamous painting of Lincoln

When the Lincoln’s lived in the White House, there was an open door policy for the public. American citizens were able to come and go from the home, as they pleased.  People would crowd the hallways and camp outside of his office.  A wall was built to divide the public and private parts of the White House to give the Lincoln family more privacy. Finally, the White House felt more like a family home.

Lincoln’s oldest son, Robert, was away at Harvard College, but his younger sons, Willie and Tad, lived in the White House. They were allowed to roam freely around the home, causing all kinds of mischief.

Willie died, in the house, of typhoid fever in 1862 at the age of 11.  His funeral services took place in the Green Room.  

Lincoln's Cottage

The Lincoln Cottage

Following the death of Willie Lincoln, the Lincoln family spent the summers of 1862 – 1864 in a cottage a couple of blocks away from the White House.  It is here, at the Soldiers Home, where Mary Lincoln finally found some solace.  The tranquil surrounding offered cooler breezes, a relief from the White House protocol, and a place for the family to reflect and heal.

 

The Gothic-Revival style home was built in 1842 for banker George W. Riggs.  The cottage was purchased by the Government in 1851 as a home for veteran soldiers.

Here, Lincoln made some of his most monumental decisions that changed the shape of our nation.  He also wrote the Emancipation Proclamation here.

Abraham Lincoln visited the Cottage for the last time on April 13, 1865, the day before he was shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford’s Theater.

Ford's Theater

Presidential Balcony at Ford's Theater

One of the most iconic Lincoln sites in Washington, DC is Ford’s Theater, the site where the president was assassinated by actor and Confederate-sympathizer, John Wilkes Booth.

On the evening of April 14, 1865, just 5 days after General Lee’s surrender in the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln visited Ford’s Theatre to watch the play, Our American Cousin.

Booth was desperate to aid the Confederacy, so he helped devise a plan to kid nap the President, Vice President, and Secretary of State.  The plan later evolved to murdering these heads of state.

Booth snuck into the Presidential Balcony and shot Lincoln in the head.  Afterwards, he dropped his Deringer pistol and leapt from the balcony onto the stage before fleeing the theater.

After the Lincoln was shot, the family sent for Dr. Gurley, the preacher from New York Avenue Presbyterian Church.  He spent most of his visit trying to console Mary Lincoln.  When the President finally passed, it was Dr. Gurley who broke the news to Tad Lincoln.

Mary Lincoln gifted Dr. Gurley Lincoln’s top hat.  The hat is now on display at the National Museum of American History.

This National Historic Site is composed of four parts:  the Museum, Ford’s Theatre (where Lincoln was shot), the Petersen House (where Lincoln died), the museum, and the Aftermath Exhibits.  We suggest visiting all four locations, as together, they chronicle the story of Lincoln from when he was sworn in as President until the days following his death.

Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial was built to honor the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Alongside Ford’s Theater, this is one of the most popular Lincoln sites in Washington, DC.  

Although plans for the memorial began shortly after Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, the monument took more than 50 years for it to be constructed and open to the public.  Construction was slowed by World War I and the memorial didn’t open until 1922.

The Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial has been the backdrop for many key points in American history.  Martin Luther King, Jr.’s I Have a Dream speech took place on the monuments steps.   The memorial was also the site of the Inaugural Celebration for America’s first black President of the United States, Barack Obama.

National Portrait Gallery

In Lincoln’s day, this building served as the U.S. Patent Office.  Fun fact:  Lincoln himself submitted a patent for a device to lift boats over shoals.

During the Civil War, the building served as a hospital where nurses such as Clara Barton and poet Walt Whitman aided the sick and wounded.

In 1865, more than 4,000 guests flocked to the building’s Great Hall  for Abraham Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Ball.

Today, the building houses the National Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian American Art Museum.  The Portrait Gallery collection holds portraits of all of the former U.S. Presidents, including Lincoln.  The last photograph taken of Lincoln is also housed here.

National Museum of American History

The Smithsonian has a wonderful collection of Lincoln’s personal belongings, many of which are housed at the National Museum of American History.  One of their most prized possessions is the top hat Lincoln was wearing when he was assassinated.  

The National Museum of American history is also where you’ll find Lincoln’s office suit, shawl, pocket watch, a wedge he used to split wood while living in Illinois, the flag from his funeral train, casts of his face and hands, several pieces linked to the conspirators that plotted to kill him, and much more.

The top hat Abraham Lincoln was wearing when he was assassinated- National Museum of American History

National Museum of Health and Medicine

This lesser-known museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, including the bullet that too Lincoln’s life and fragments from his skull.  The bullet was found 2/3 of the way into his brain, severing a major vein.  

This collection focuses on the the medical treatment he received at the Petersen House, following the fateful incident.

Fort Stevens

Fort Stephens was erected to defend Washington, DC.  It was the site of the only battle to take place within the capital.  According to many accounts, Lincoln rode out to the fort, while it was under attack, and was briefly under enemy fire.  It is believe that this is only the second time in US History where the sitting president came under enemy fire during a war (James Madison was the first during the war of 1812). 

There is a marker memorializing Lincoln’s visit to the fort. 

Library of Congress

Lincoln Portrait- Library of Congress

The World’s Largest Library, the Library of Congress, holds many important relics from Lincoln’s time.  These include a handwritten draft of the bill to abolish slavery, his first and second inaugural addresses, the two earliest known copies of the Gettysburg Address, and more.  The Library also houses a letter of condolences written to Mary Todd Lincoln by Queen Victoria following the assassination.

The Lincoln Papers were gifted by Robert Todd Lincoln, Lincoln’s oldest son.  He asked that the papers remain sealed until twenty-one years after Robert Lincoln’s death.  The papers were officially opened to the public in 1947.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is the largest urban park in Capitol Hill.  The park, maintained by the National Park Service, served as the site of the Lincoln Hospital during the Civil War.    During it’s time, it was the largest hospital in the area.

After the Civil War, like most hospitals, it was taken down.  In 1867, Congress authorized the grounds to be called Lincoln Square as the first memorial to the former president.  This is the first public site to bear Lincoln’s name.

The park features two important sculptures:  the Emancipation Memorial and the Mary McLeod Bethune Memorial.

The first was created by Thomas Ball in 1876.  It was one of the first memorial in Washington to honor the late president.  The monument depicts Abraham Lincoln holding a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation and freeing a male slave.  The statue was funded with wages of free slaves.

The second, is a bronze statue honoring the educator and activity Mary McLeod Bethune.  Bethune was a humanitarian who fought for equal rights for women and people of color.  She strongly believed that education was the key to closing the gap between whites and people of color.  She opened a private school in Daytona Beach, Florida that would later be renamed the Bethune-Cookman University.

Suggested Itinerary

Start your morning at Lincoln’s Waffle Shop, a local restaurant known for their pancakes and waffles.  The restaurant is located right next to the Petersen House and Ford’s Theater.

After you’ve had a diner-style breakfast, take a tour of Ford’s Theater.  This National Historic Site is composed of four parts:  the Museum, the Theatre (where Lincoln was shot), the Petersen House (where Lincoln died), the museum, and the Aftermath Exhibits.  These sites have exhibits that tell the story of Lincoln’s presidency, his assassination, and the legacy Lincoln left.

Next, stop by the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church, where the Lincoln’s often attended.  Afterwards, head to The White House to check where the family once called home.

Ford's Theatre

Stop by Lincoln, a super trendy restaurant for a bite of lunch.  After lunch, head to the National Portrait Gallery to examine the portraits of our country’s presidents.  Then, rest your feet by taking the Metro from Metro Center to Capitol South Station.  Up next, visit the Library of Congress to see their impressive collection of Lincoln memorabilia including a letter written to Mary Lincoln from Queen Victoria of England.

Hop back on the Metro at Capitol South Station and take it to the Smithsonian Station.  Spend the later afternoon visiting the National Museum of American History.

Wrap up your day by strolling down the National Mall towards the Lincoln Memorial.

While this itinerary may not include all of the sites listed above, it does include the ones that are easily accessible to visitors who are walking or using the Metro.  If you have access to a car while in Washington, DC, the other sites will be easy for you to visit.  

If you do have access to a car, we suggest visiting the sites in the following order:  Lincoln Park, President Lincoln’s Cottage, Fort Stevens, National Museum of Health and Medicine.  You can also visit the sites in reverse order, starting at the National Museum of Health and Medicine in Maryland and making your way back toward DC.

Even better, you can always catch an Uber so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of finding a Metro Station!

Map courtesy of Google

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National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States Washington DC

The 25 Magical National Parks in Washington DC

The Lincoln Memorial

Believe it or not, there are an impressive 25 National Parks in Washington DC!  While we haven’t been to all of them yet, we have managed to hit quite a few.  Besides… this way we’ll always have a reason to come back to the nation’s capital. 

In this article, we’ll cover all 25 of the National Park Sites (sites managed by the National Park Service).  Washington, DC is one of my favorite places to visit in the entire world.  As a huge history nerd, I love seeing all of these historical sites firsthand.  All of the National Parks in Washington DC are free, which makes them even easier to enjoy.

The National Mall and Memorial Park contains a handful of America’s most recognized landmarks.  It is filled with many statues, memorials, and museums- including the Smithsonian Museums and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.

The National Mall stretches from the U.S. Capitol to the Washington Monument.  This hub of DC is the perfect place to stroll and reflect about our country’s past.  Many of the monuments form a big cross in the center of DC.  The apex is the Washington Monument and the tip of the cross is the Lincoln Memorial.

Things to Know Before You Visit the National Parks in Washington DC

Entrance Fees- One of the best things about these National Park Sites is that they are FREE!  The goal of these sites, including the Smithsonian Museums, is to have them be accessible to everyone so they are free to visit.

Come Prepared- Many of DC’s best attractions are outdoors.  Be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated.  There are water bottle refill stations located throughout the National Mall. 

White House Tour- Scheduling a White House Tour  requires some advanced planning, as well.  You’ll have to reach out to your Congressperson to help you arrange a tour.

US Capitol Building- You can also reach out to your Congressperson to get a tour of the Capitol Building.

Washington Monument
Dude...they actually let US inside the White House!

Tickets- Some of the attractions require that you get a free timed-entry pass in order to visit.  These include The National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Air and Space Museum, the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, Library of Congress, Bureau of Printing and Engraving, and the Washington Monument. Be sure to research this before your trip as some other sites may require this as well.

Plan Accordingly- You’ll do a TON of walking while in DC.  During our long weekend there we walked about 25 miles- and that’s with us using the Metro regularly.  It’s easy to do, especially when you’re walking the National Mall and popping in and out of museums.  Wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, take plenty of breaks, and do yourself a favor and don’t try to cram too much into your trip.  Check out our itinerary for our long weekend to see what managed to see and do on our most recent trip.

National Parks in Washington DC

1. Belmont Paul Women's Equality National Monument

This was once home to the National Women’s Party for more than 90 years. It was here that Alice Paul and the National Women’s Party strategized and planned their campaigns to advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment and equality for women.  The Belmont Paul Women’s Equality National Monument commemorates the struggle for women’s rights.  

It was designated as a National Monument by President Barack Obama in 2016.

2. Carter G. Woodson National Historic Site

Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson was a distinguished black author, editor, publisher, and historian.  He is remembered for his role in establishing Black History Month.  Woodson worked tirelessly to teach the American public about the role of African Americans in American History and fought to include African American History in school curriculums.  

At the Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site, visitors can take a ranger-led interpretive tour of his historic home and get an in-depth look at Woodson’s life.  The tours last for 45 minutes and are held on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.  Reservations are recommended.

3. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

The C&O Canal was once used to ship goods such as coal, lumber, grain, and crops to communities along the Potomac.  Construction of the canal started in 1828.  Over the course of 22 years, 35,00 workers dug the canal, built aqueducts, culverts, and locks.

 Today, the park is 184 miles of adventure!  Today it is a popular spot for boating, hiking, and biking.

4. Constitution Gardens

Constitution Gardens is a park located within the boundaries of the National Mall.  The land that became the Constitution Gardens was originally submerged by the Potomac River and was dredged at the start of the 20th century by the Army Corps of Engineers. In 1986, President Ronald Reagan formally declared the park a “living legacy tribute” to the United States Constitution.  

The garden has a small pond which contains a memorial to the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence.  The park was created as a tribute to the American Revolution and its 200-year legacy.  

Ford's Theatre- the site the the Lincoln assassination

5. Ford's Theater

On April 14, 1865, America was brought to its knees when its beloved leader, President Abraham Lincoln was shot by actor John Wilkes Booth at Ford’s Theater.  

Visitors can enter to the theater to learn about the events leading up to the President’s death, catch a glimpse of the President’s Box, listen to a park ranger tell the story of what happened that fateful evening, and follow JWB’s escape route down a back alley.  

After Lincoln was shot, he was taken across the street to the Petersen House where he was tended to by doctors until he took his last breath.  The house was also acquired by the NPS and is open to visitors.

The museum has a collection of over 3,000 artifacts related to the assassination of the president that enhance the experience.  

6. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, affectionally known as FDR, led the nation through both the Great Depression and World War II.  He is credited with being one of the most influential presidents our nation has seen.  It is said that he has done more to change the American society and politics than any of his predecessors, with the exception of Abraham Lincoln.  

He served an unprecedented four terms where he unleased policies such as the New Deal and enhanced the powers of the president to include chief legislator.  The memorial chronicles his four terms through a series of quotes and bronze work.  

7. Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Frederick Douglass escaped from slavery as a young man to become one of the leaders of the abolitionist movement. He fought for equal rights for African Americans and served in many government positions including US Minister to Haiti and US Marshal for the District of Columbia.

His legacy is preserved at Cedar Hill, where he spent the last 17 years of his life.  Reservations are recommended for the ranger-led guided tour of his home.

8. George Washington Memorial Parkway

Known as the G.W. Parkway, the George Washington Memorial Parkway is a 25 mile long parkway that leads from Mount Vernon (home of George Washington) to McLean Virginia.  It is located almost entirely in Virginia however, a portion of the parkway passes over Columbia Island within the District of Colubmia.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

9. Korean War Veterans Memorial

Located on the National Mall near the Lincoln Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial is dedicated to honor the men and women who served in the Korean Conflict.  

The Lincoln Memorial

10. Lincoln Memorial

This  massive statue of Honest Abe is quite impressive.  Be sure to take a moment, sit on the steps, and reflect on our country’s history and legends.  Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States.  He held office during the Civil War and is noted for emancipating enslaved people in the south.  Just days after the Civil War Ended, he was assassinated in 1865.  Check out our article:  10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Lincoln Memorial

11. Lyndon Gaines Johnson Memorial Grove on the Potomac

The Lyndon Baines Johnson (LBJ) Memorial Grove is located just off the George Washington Memorial Parkway on the banks of the Potomac River.  At the heart of the grove is a massive 19-foot monolith made of Texas Granite mined from LBJ’s home state of Texas.  Dotting the landscape around the memorial are dogwoods, azaleas, and rhododendrons. 

12. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

The MLK Jr. Memorial was dedicated in 2011 near the spot where the famous activist gave his “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.  The memorial is a granite 30 foot sculpture of MLK Jr. with his arms crossed symbolizing a “stone of hope”.  There is also a wall inscribed with quotes from some of his most memorable speeches.

13. Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site

Mary Mcleod  Bethune, the child of former slaves, was born in 1875.  She grew to be one of the most influential African Americans in the mid-20th century.   She believed that a formal education would be pivotal in the empowerment of African American women.  In 1904, she started a school for impoverished black girls in Daytona Beach, Florida.  This school would grow to become Bethune-Cookman University.

Amazingly, she would be appointed director of the Office of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.  This appointment made her the first African-American woman to head a federal agency.

Today, you can tour the home that she lived in during the 1940s.  The tour features a video talking about her life and work.

14. National Capital Parks

National Capital Parks-East is a collection of 13 park sites, parkways, and statuary covering 8,000 acres of parklands from Capitol Hill to the nearby Maryland suburbs. 

The National Capital Parks include:

Anacostia Park
Baltimore-Washington Parkway
Capitol Hill Parks
Civil War Defenses of Washington – Fort Circle Parks
Fort Dupont Park
Fort Foote Park
Fort Washington Park
Greenbelt Park
Harmony Hall
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
Langston Golf Course
Oxon Cove Park/Oxon Hill Farm
Piscataway Park
Potomac Heritage Trail
Sewall Belmont House and Museum
Shepherd Parkway

15. National Mall & Memorial Parks

The National Mall is one home to some of the most iconic structures in America.  It stretches for two miles from the steps of the US Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial.  Some of the most famous museums in the US line the original mall including the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Museum of the American Indian, and more.

16. Pennsylvania Avenue

This unique site preserves locations related to the creation of Federal City, Presidential Inaugurations, and historically significant events.  It is not uncommon to find protestors demonstrating along the avenue.

The White House

17. President's Park (White House)

The White House is located within what is known as President’s Park.  This park encompasses open spaces, monuments, statues, and the White House.

Tours of the White House must be scheduled in advance by contacting your local Congressperson.  Requests can be submitted up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance.  

We strongly suggest visiting the White House Visitor’s Center, even if you aren’t touring the White House.  The Visitor Center has over 100 historical artifacts, interactive displays, and other relics that offer insight into the life of the presidents.

18. Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park stretches for more than 10 miles from the Potomac River, along Rock Creek, to the border of Maryland.   The park is popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.  The Nature Center features the only planetarium in the National Park Service.  

19. Theodore Roosevelt Island

Theodore Roosevelt was the 26th President of the United States.  Many consider him to the the grandfather of the National Park System.  He was dedicated to conservation and is known for protecting sites such as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park, Montezuma Castle, Lewis & Clark Caverns, and more!

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

20. Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States, chief author of the Declaration of Independence and responsible for the Louisiana Purchase.  His memorial offers a statue of Jefferson along with several marble panels engraved with some of his most memorable quotes.

21. Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Located in the National Mall near the Lincoln Memorial, is one of the most popular war memorials in DC.  The Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial features a 246 long slab of black granite engraved with all of those who died or went missing in action during the Vietnam War.   

22. Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is at the heart of the National Mall.  The giant obelisk was erected to honor our country’s first president, George Washington.  Interesting, construction was stopped for a 30 year period due to a lack of funds and the Civil War.  There’s a noticeable color change where the work was resumed.

There is an elevator that you can take up to the observation level 500 feet up the obelisk.  Tickets are $1 each and are required for everyone 2 and up.  The tickets can be extremely hard to come by and must be booked up to 90 days in advance at www.recreation.gov

23. Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail

In 1781, General Rochambeau’s French arm joined George Washington’s Continental Army to fight the British in Yorktown, Virginia.  This park follows the trail to the victory at Yorktown which led to American independence.

The trail is popular for hiking, biking, and paddling.  

24. World War I Memorial

This memorial opened in 2021 and honors the 4.7 million American that served during World War I including the 116,516 who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The memorial is located along Pennsylvania Avenue across from the White House Visitor Center.  It features a sculpture known as “A Soldier’s Journey”

World War II Memorial

25. World War II Memorial

One of my favorite memorials, and once of the most ornate, is the World War II Memorial.  It is located in the National Mall between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.  the memorial is dedicated to the 16 million men and women who served in the US Military and those who supported the war effort at home.

The memorial includes a field of stars honoring those who passed away in the war and those listed as missing in action.  There are two semi-circles of pillar denoting the states and territories.

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United States Washington DC

Our 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary: Kid-Tested & Mom-Approved

The White House

DC is one of my favorite places in the world, so when I sat down to create our 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary, I knew exactly where I wanted to take the kids.  Before this trip, I had spent about 3 weeks exploring DC on my own, over the years.  I’ve spent hours perusing the incredible masterpieces in the countless art museums in the District, visited almost every single memorial and monument, and seen pretty much everything I’ve wanted to see.  

Because of this, I had a pretty good idea of what we would do on our first family trip to Washington DC.  I wanted to include their interests with places that are important to our nation’s history.  I also wanted to sprinkle in a few things that I hadn’t done yet.

The kids interests include:

  • Art
  • Space
  • Dinosaurs
The Lincoln Memorial

Additionally, I wanted to squeeze in something Ashley enjoys (reading) with one of my interests, history.

Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History

Planning for our 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary

Step One: The Hotel

On my past trips to DC, I have stayed in Arlington, Virginia and Alexandria, Virginia.  Both are just outside of the District of Columbia.  These are popular choices with travelers because the hotels are cheaper and they nearby the District.  If you’re arriving by car, both cities offer an easy drive into the District.  If you’re arriving by plane and will be using the Metro, the Orange Line and Silver Line both service Arlington and the Yellow Line and Blue Line service Alexandria.

Since we were traveling with young kids, I wanted to find a hotel that was near the National Mall, that way we could run back to the hotel quickly if someone needed a nap or if we needed to access the hotel during the middle of the day.  I’m glad we did this because we actually found ourselves going back to the hotel twice.

To find our hotel, I hopped on Google Maps and looked to see what was near the National Mall.  I found a Hyatt Place that was between the National Mall and The District Wharf.  The Mall is where you’ll find many of the monuments and museums and The Wharf has a ton of restaurants, shops, and bars.  To top it off, it was a couple of blocks away from two different Metro stops on the Orange, Blue, and Silver lines, which were the ones we would be predominately be using.  The location couldn’t have been more perfect!

Step Two: Mapping Out our 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary

Washington Monument

Once we booked our hotel, I jotted down a list of places I wanted to visit on our trip.  The list included places that would interest all of the kids.  When traveling with kids, it’s important to keep your itineraries to a minimum.  I planned on visiting about 4 things a day- knowing that we’d be doing a ton of walking (even with us using the Metro), that we’d be skipping our usual nap, and not wanting to over do it.  Overdoing it would only lead to meltdowns and tantrums- by not only the kids, but also by us grown ups.

After figuring out where we would be visiting, I hopped on Google Maps again to cluster places that were close together.  This helped cut down on unnecessary walking- since we’d already be walking around so much.

Step Three: Getting Around

On this trip, we were arriving by airplane and weren’t going to rent a car.  Honestly, you don’t need a car in Washington, DC.  It’s so easy to get around using the Metro or on foot.  In my experience, it’s actually easier to use the Metro or walk than it is to deal with finding parking in many places in DC.

I did lots of research on the DC Metro, since it’s been about a decade since my last trip to Washington, DC.  There are several different options for paying your fares.

DC Metro

Originally, I planned on purchasing a 3 day Unlimited Pass and a 1 Day Unlimited Pass to cover all 4 days.  Kids 5 and up need a Metro pass, which meant the boys would ride for free.

All of this went out the window, however when I purchased our passes.  The great thing about the DC Metro is that each of them is manned by employees that are happy to help you get the most bang for your buck.  There is Metro station within the airport, so as soon as we got off the plane, we headed to the Metro to catch a ride to the hotel.  

As I approached the machine to get our passes, an employee offered to help.  He asked me what our plan was, and I told him I was going to buy us the unlimited passes.  He explained to me that this was a waste of money and suggested I load some money onto a card instead and reload it as needed.  We got 2 cards, loaded $20 on each and it was plenty for us to get around all weekend- even with us using the Metro several times a day.

1-, 3-, and 7-Day Unlimited Pass

  • Pass is activated the first time SmarTrip is tapped at a fare gate or bus farebox
  • Pass expires at the end of the last consecutive operating day
  • No time restrictions
  • Cost of passes:  1 Day $13, 3 Day $28, 7 Day $58

Pre-Loaded Card

Another option is to get a Metro card, put some money on it and reload it as necessary.

The cost to ride the Metro is based on service, ride length, day, and time you ride. 

  • Peak Fare: $2.25 – $6.00
  • Off-Peak Fare: $2 – $3.85
  • Weekend Metro one-way fare: $2 flat fee
  • Late Night Flat Fee (M-F after 9:30): $2

 

How to Purchase SmarTrip Pass

Finalizing our 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary

Once we figured out our lodging, our transportation, what we wanted to see, and the logistics, it was time to finalize our 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary.  I’m kind of old school so I wrote it all down on paper, but I also typed it in as a note on my phone so I could refer to it.  Going into the trip, I knew that the 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary would have to be fluid because there was a good chance we wouldn’t be able to see and do everything I wanted to.

Several places in DC required timed ticket reservations, so I planned those for 10 and 4 each day to give us ample time in between reservations to do other things.

Day One

The Plan

  • Lincoln Memorial
  • Korean War Memorial
  • MLK Monument
  • WWII Memorial
  • Washington Monument
  • Constitution Garden
  • Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial

We arrived at DC in the early afternoon, checked in to our hotel, stowed away our luggage and headed to the National Mall.  The concierge suggested that we walk, rather than take the Metro.  I should have stuck to my gut and taken the Metro because we totally got lost and walked about 2.5 miles out of the way.  My wife was hot, irritable, and tired from a long day of travel so, our afternoon didn’t go as planned.  Rather than doing the monuments and memorials, we ducked into a museum instead.

The desk Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence on-National American History Museum

The National American History Museum was a great introduction to our nation’s capital.  It’s filled with relics from American history and American culture.  We were able to give the kids some insight on some of the places we’d be visiting while in town.

What We Actually Did

Day Two

The Plan

Dude...they actually let US inside the White House!

What We Actually Did

We woke up early and had breakfast at our hotel before hopping on the Metro over to The White House.  We made a pitstop in the White House Visitor’s Center, which I’m so glad we did.  It gave an insight as to what life is like inside the White House. It was a super impressive exhibit and well worth a visit!

While we waited for our 10 AM tour of the White House to start, we saw the Benjamin Franklin and Alexander Hamilton statues and walked to the park to see the southside of the White House.  It was a nice way to kill time before our tour began.

The White House tour was remarkable.  It was so cool being able to step inside the White House and see all of the relics from our nation’s history.  It’s something everyone should do at least once.

Pro-Tip: The best views of the White House are from the South Lawn. Take 15th Street, pass the US Treasury Building, walk along E Street to the back of the White House.

Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History

Next, we took the Metro to the National Museum of Natural History, where we had lunch and then spent a couple of hours exploring the collections.  It’s very different visiting the museum with kids, it was fun to see it through their eyes.  We spent a lot of time checking out the dinosaur fossils in the Bone Hall and the Hall of Fossils.  We also spent quite a bit of time gazing at the gems and space rocks.

In the past, I’ve concentrated more on the gems and the Egyptian artifacts, so it was interesting to see how that changed when visiting with kids.

Lastly, we had 4:00 reservations to see the Library of Congress– the World’ Largest Library!  Ashley is a huge reader, so I wanted to include something should we enjoy.  My goodness, the library is stunning!  Dare I say it was even more ornate than the White House?  We visited the Young Readers Center, perused the special exhibits and even got to check out Thomas Jefferson’s personal library collection.  Next time, I’d love to get into the Reading Room!

Day Three

The Plan

What We Actually Did

We started our morning off with a tour of Ford’s Theater.  Our pass covered the Ford’s Theater Museum, the theater itself, The Petersen House, and the Aftermath Exhibits.  We spent probably two hours learning all about the life and death of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States.  Part of the presentation was a lengthy (probably 45 minutes to an hour) Park Ranger talk.

Needless to say, it was emotionally exhausting and kind of boring of the kids.  While we were at lunch at the nearby Hard Rock, we discussed changing up our original plan to visit the National Portrait Gallery.  When we got off the Metro, we saw the National Children’s Museum and decided that would be a better fit for the kids after a heavy morning.  This turned out to be one of the best things we did the entire trip!

The Kids at Ford's Theater

The National Children’s Museum is a STEAM inspired play space where kids can learn about the world around them through hands on activities.  They had an absolute blast playing in the super futuristic play space!  They also got to race cars down ramps, express themselves artistically, combine science and sports, and build with massive blocks.  They enjoyed this much more than they would have enjoyed the National Portrait Gallery.  It gave them a chance to get some energy out and decompress from such an emotionally exhausting morning retracing Abraham Lincoln’s last steps.

Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum

The weekend that we visited was the grand re-opening of the National Air and Space Museum.  We had a timed entry ticket for 4:00.  Even with only 40% of the museum open, it was still incredibly massive and impressive.  There were lots of hands-on elements to the exhibit that allowed the kids to fully immerse themselves in the experience.  Our middle kiddo is super into space so this was right up his alley!

We got to see the Wright Brother’s glider, go inside an airplane, see space rovers, antique sports cars, and much more.  It will be interesting to see the remaining exhibits once the museum is completely opened.  

Lastly, we headed to Chinatown to meet some friends for dinner.  After dinner, we walked back to our hotel, rather than take the Metro, so we could see the monuments lit up at night.

Day Four

The Plan

Our plan for day four was to get up and go to the Lincoln Memorial, since we missed it on day one.  The plan was to eat breakfast, hop on the Metro to see it, head back to the hotel, get our stuff, get back on the Metro and head to the airport.  While it was totally feasible time wise, since we had a 2 o’clock flight, we opted to stay at the hotel instead.  

Even though we used the Metro a majority of the time, we still managed to walk about 25 miles.  Adding on the Lincoln Memorial would add on about another 1.5 miles of walking to our day.  We stayed at the hotel until check out time, 11:00, and took the Metro one last time to the airport.

 

The Mineral Rainbow- Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History

Our 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary- Condensed

Day One

Day Two

Day Three

Day Four

  • National Mall/Lincoln Memorial
  • Depart DC

Reflecting on our 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary

While we didn’t get to see everything we planned on seeing, we got to see and experience so much during our time in the nation’s capital.  I’m extremely glad we decided to swap out the National Portrait Gallery  for the National Children’s Museum.  It ended up being the kids favorite memory of the trip!

I’m glad our itinerary was loose and not concrete.  The last-minute changes we made to our itinerary were great additions!  The White House Visitor’s Center, the National Museum of American History and National Children’s Museum were not on our original itinerary, yet they ended up being some of the most memorable places!

 Had we not gotten lost on the first day, we would have been able to see the Lincoln Memorial and several other monuments and memorials during the National Mall.  Although it’s disappointing we didn’t get to see those, we did make it to the National Museum of American History, which was probably more enjoyable for the kids, anyway.  We’ll catch the monuments and memorials when they are a little older.

All in all, it was a great trip.  Despite having spend nearly 25 days exploring the city, there is still so much I’d love to see.  Looks like we’ll have to make a return trip when the kids are older!

FAQ About DC

Is 4 Days Washington, DC enough?

Honestly, Washington, DC has a ton to offer.  When planning a trip to DC, you want at least 3 full days…and even then, you won’t be able to see everything you want to. 

Our itinerary takes into account our young kids- we could have squeezed in more sites, but wanted to be mindful of their limitations.

What is the cheapest month to visit Washington, DC?

February is the most affordable month to visit Washington, DC.  At this time the hotel rates drop down and the crowds tend to die down.  Be sure to pack lots of layers though, it tends to be cold during this month!

What months are the worst time to visit DC?

DC is absolutely insane in the summers, and it’s also ridiculously hot.  The general rule of thumb is to avoid DC during early spring through the end of summer.  

It also gets busy during Presidential Inaugurations and the holidays.

Do you need a car in DC?

I’ve experienced DC both with a car and without.  Honestly, it’s much easier to forget the rental car and just use the Metro.  That way, you don’t have to deal with finding parking.  The Metro is very user-friendly.

What part of Washington, DC should I stay in?

The best areas to stay in Washington DC are Downtown DC/National Mall, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Penn Quarter, Foggy Bottom, Logan Circle, Adams Morgan, and Woodley Park.  These areas are popular for tourists, include lots of attractions and amenities, and are serviced by the Metro.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider staying just outside of DC in Alexandria or Arlington.  The Metro services both towns.

Save a Pin and Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, be sure to save Our 4 Day Washington DC, Itinerary.   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC, be sure to check out Guide to the National mall and our list of 15 Must See Places in Washington, DC.  You can also learn how to visit the White House.

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Categories
Hotel Review United States Washington DC

A Review of the Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall

On our recent trip to Washington, DC, we stayed at the Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall.  This hotel is perfectly located between the National Mall and The Wharf, which features restaurants, shops, parks, piers, docks and marinas, and live music venues.  It’s a great spot to relax after taking in all of the sights and sounds of Washington, DC.

In this post, we’ll analyze the pros and cons of the Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall and share our honest feedback.  We were not compensated for this post.

Accommodation Options at Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall

The Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall features 214 cozy, comfortable and sleek bedrooms.  The rooms offer luxury pillowtop mattresses, modern media and work centers, a 42″ tv, a sofa/sleeper sofa, and a luxurious bathroom.  The room options include:

  • King Bed One Bedroom Suite with Sofa Bed– a 770 to 880 square foot suite featuring a separate bedroom and living area, floor to ceiling windows, and a king sized bed.
  • King Bed Specialty Room with Sofa Bed– 550 square foot room with a separate sleeping and living area, floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Jefferson Memorial.
  • King Bed High Floor (With Sofa Bed)- A high floor spacious guest room with a separate sleeping and living area, one king bed and a sleeper sofa.
  • Two Queen Beds High Floor  with Sofa Bed– A high floor spacious guest room with separate sleeping and living areas includes 2 queen beds and a sofa sleeper.
  • King Bed with Sofa Bed- A spacious room featuring a separate sleeping and living area, a king bed and a sofa sleeper.
  • Two Queen Beds with a Sofa Bed- A spacious room featuring separate sleeping and living areas, two queen beds, and a sleeper sofa.
  • Accessible King/Roll-in Shower with Sofa Bed- ADA-compliant guest room with one king bed and roll in shower.
  • Accessible King Bed/Tub with Sofa Bed-  ADA-compliant guest room with one king bed and accessible bathtub with hand rails.
  • Accessible Two Queen Beds/Roll-in Shower with Sofa Bed- ADA-compliant guest room with two queen beds and roll in shower.
  • Accessible Two Queen Beds/Tub with Sofa Bed-  ADA-compliant guest room with two queen beds and accessible bathtub with hand rails.

Check In/ Check Out at the Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall

The main entrance to the hotel is on the street level.  To check in, take the elevator to the first floor to the crisp, clean, comfortable lobby area.  The lobby offers plenty of seating and several computer stations which are great for printing off boarding passes and tickets for the area museums.

The staff is helpful, informative, and friendly.  Don’t be afraid to ask them any questions you may have about the area!

There is also a digital-check in option which is super convenient and easy to use.

Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall Amenities

Amenities at the hotel include:

  • Free breakfast buffet
  • Free internet
  • Fitness center
  • Saltwater outdoor pool
  • Pet-Friendly
  •  Meeting facilities
  • All-day dining options
  • Rooftop bar
  • Digital Check-in
  • Business services
  • Laundry
  • Concierge

Dining at the Hotel

Attached to the main lobby you’ll find a restaurant and full-service bar.  The restaurant boasts an all you can eat breakfast along with a limited lunch and dinner menu.  The breakfast food was fairly good but to be 100% honest, we were extremely disappointed in the lunch and dinner options.  

The food was frozen, hastily prepared and was poor quality.  Considering the pricing, we were expecting much better quality. More details in the “Honest Review” section, below.

Our Honest Review

For our stay, we booked the  Two Queen Beds with Sofa Bed room.  The room was spacious and featured separate living and sleeping areas.  There was plenty of storage space, and the room was clean and cozy.  It was the perfect size for our family of five.  We slept in one bed, the twins took the other queen and our daughter slept on the pull out couch.

We stayed in the room for a total of 3 nights.  The hotel was relatively quiet, especially considering it’s attached to a fire station and located directly off the highway.  Although we could hear sirens throughout the day and night, they weren’t loud enough to keep us up at night.  We weren’t able to hear the highway traffic at all.

We started each morning with breakfast in the lobby restaurant.  The food was adequate, but nothing to write home about.  The breakfast morning changed a little each morning.  Each of us was able to find something that we liked each day, which is a huge plus when traveling with kids.  Each morning there was a selection of fruit, pastries, and yogurt.

On the first night, we had dinner at the hotel.  To sum it up, it was horrible.  We ordered a burger, two personal size pizzas (that were frozen), an order of parmesan fries, and two drinks and it cost us just over $100.  The food was bland and plated fresh out of the microwave- which was extremely apparent considering it was at our table in about 10 minutes flat.  We were really disappointed in our meal- so much so that we wouldn’t order lunch or dinner there again.

We simply used the hotel as a place to rest our heads and store our belongings.  It was perfectly located between The Wharf (where you’ll find restaurants and shops) and the National Mall (where you’ll find many monuments and the Smithsonian museums).  There were two metro stops (Federal Center SW and L’Enfant) within walking distance.  It honestly was the perfect location. Both stops are on the Orange, Blue and Silver lines.  L’Enfant also serves the Yellow and Green Lines.  Because of this, with our itinerary, we didn’t have to transfer to any other lines when we hopped on the metro.

The neighborhood was safe, especially during the day. We felt very comfortable walking from the hotel to the National mall.  I also ventured off to The Wharf one night to pick us up on dinner.  There was plenty of other people walking in that directions, so I felt extremely safe.  I was a little nervous about walking around at night.

If you’re looking for a clean, comfortable hotel within walking distance to the metro and popular attractions, than this is a wonderful option for you.  We would definitely recommend the Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall.

Walking Distance to Popular Attractions

Transportation to the Hotel

The hotel is located at 400 E Street SW, Washington, D.C., United States, 20024.  If you’re arriving by a car, there is a parking garage on the property.  There is an additional cost to use the parking garage.

If you’ll be using the Metro, the hotel is easily accessed via the Orange Line, Blue Line or Silver Line.  You can use either the Federal Center SW or L’Enfant Metro stops.  They are about equal distances from the hotel.  We used the L’Enfant stop

Ready to Start Planning?

Honestly, there’s nothing like a trip to Washington, DC.  It is the perfect destination for families.  If a museum or monument isn’t holding your kids attention, there’s always another one you can check out- and it’ll most likely be free!

If you’d like a little guidance for your itinerary, see our 4 Day Itinerary.  It was designed with young kids in mind and hits a lot of the most popular sights in Washington, DC such as:

The White House
National Museum of American History
National Air & Space Museum
Ford’s Theater
Lincoln Memorial
Washington Monument
National Children’s Museum

and so much more!

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National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States Washington DC

Visiting the White House- How to Get a White House Tour and What to Expect

Visiting the White House is the opportunity of a lifetime. The White House tour is one of my most memorable experiences from all of my trips to Washington, DC. It requires a bit of planning to schedule a tour of the White House. Trust me when I say that it is well worth the effort!

How to Schedule a Tour of the White House

The National Park Service no longer schedules tours of the White House. Instead, in order to secure a public tour, you must reach out to a Member of Congress (find your representative here). Requests must be made at least 21 days in advance, and up to three months out. We suggest submitting your request as early as possible since a limited number of spaces are available.

Tours are typically available from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM Tuesdays through Saturdays excluding federal holidays. The tours are free of charge.

At this time, embassies are not scheduling tours for international visitors.  

White House Tour Boarding Pass

After contacting your Congressperson, you’ll receive an email letting you know whether or not there are any White House tours available during your visit to Washington, DC. You will receive an email 2-3 weeks before your requested dates indicating whether or not the date is available.

If there are time slots available during your visit, you are assigned a specific day and time for your White House tour. Weirdly, when we requested our tour we received an email telling us there were no tours available. A couple of days later, I received a second email confirming our visit. At this time, I submitted our social security numbers and full names to the White House.

Once we received clearance, we received a “Boarding Pass” that we had to present to the Secret Service Agents, along with our IDs.

Required Documentation

In order to gain access to the White House, you’ll need to bring a copy of the letter of approval (a digital copy is okay) and a government-issued photo ID.  Acceptable forms of identification include driver’s license, passport, military ID.

The White House

Items Prohibited on the White House Tour

  • Aerosol sprays
  • Ammunition
  • Bags of any kind (including backpacks, purses, diaper bags, fanny packs, etc).
  • Cameras with detachable lenses
  • Weapons of any kid
  • Fireworks
  • Flags
  • E-cigarettes, lighters, matches, tobacco products, drugs
  • Foods and drinks
  • Liquids of any kind
  • Monopods & Tripods
  • Signs
  • Strollers
  • Tablets
  • Toy weapons
  • Video Cameras
  • Pointed objects
  • Any item determined to be a potential safety hazard

There are no storage facilities available during the White House tour.  There are also no restrooms available for public use.  We suggest using the restroom at the White House Visitor Center prior to your tour.

So... what can you bring...?

Honestly, you should plan on bringing as little as possible.  We brought our boarding pass, IDs, a credit card, a camera, a metro card, and an inhaler.  

Visitors will have to pass through strict security prior to entering the White House.  You’ll need to present your boarding pass, and ID cards (twice).

The State Dining Room is where Lewis and Clark planned out their expedition of west. Since 1809, it has served as a dining room for as many as 140 guests. It features an infamous painting of Lincoln
  • Baby carriers worn on the body
  • Baby wipes
  • Breast pumps
  • Cell phones
  • Compact cameras with lenses less than 3 inches
  • Diapers
  • Umbrellas without metal tips
  • Wallets
  • Necessary medications

Remember, there is no storage available at the White House for guests.  If your hotel is nearby, we suggest leaving your belongings in your room.  If your hotel is far away, you can get a locker at Union Station.  The lockers are located near Gate A and are available from 6 am until 10 pm.  You’ll need a photo ID to get a locker.  The cost is $3-6 per hour depending on the size of your bag.

Arriving for the White House Tour

Parking around the White House is limited, so we strongly suggest using public transportation. The White House is easily accessible via the metro.

The closest metro stations are Federal Triangle (Blue/Orange lines), Metro Center (Blue/Orange/Silver/Red lines), and McPherson Square (Blue/Orange/Silver lines).

If arriving via rideshare, use the White House Visitor Center as the drop-off address. The White House Visitor Center is located at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW.

The White House Tour entrance is located in Sherman Park at 15th Street NW and Alexander Hamilton Place NW.  We suggest stopping by the White House Visitor Center prior to your tour to use the restroom since there are no restrooms available for public use at the White House.

The State Dining Room is where Lewis and Clark planned out their expedition of west. Since 1809, it has served as a dining room for as many as 140 guests. It features an infamous painting of Lincoln

Know Before You Go

  • Tours are self-guided and last about 45 minutes.
  • Dress for the weather– you’ll need to wait outside until your tour beings.
  • Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Late arrivals may be turned away.
  • A National Park Ranger will help ensure you’re lined up with the proper group and will have Junior Ranger booklets available.
  • All guests must be previous registered via the RSVP link provided by the White House (via email).
  • No flash photography or videography is permitted (there will be Secret Service agents in every room)
  • Although the tour is self-guided, the Secret Service Agents can be a wealth of knowledge about the items found in each room.
What was once a laundry room is now the White House Library. The room is often used for televised interviews.

What Rooms Will I See on the White House Tour?

Dude...they actually let US inside the White House!

Prior to our trip I did a lot of research on what rooms we’d be able to see during our White House Tour.  Every website I checked listed the Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, the State Dining Room and a view of the White House Rose Garden.

Much to my surprise, we actually got to see additional rooms!  One our tour, we toured both the State Floor and the Ground Floor.  We saw the movie theater, library, the East Room, Vermeil Room, China Room, State Dining Room, Green Room, Blue Room, and Red Room.

The White House tour was interesting.   Walking into the White House, I expected it to be just as opulent as  the Biltmore House and palaces such as the Tower of London and Versailles in Europe.  I was rather surprised to find that the rooms were much less stately.  The vibe felt a little more like going to visit your grandparents house, rather than the head of a country’s home.

That being said, it was really cool being able to marvel at the historical artifacts that decorate the White House.  We got to see Shikler’s portrait of JFK along with other portraits of past presidents, first ladies, and influential Americans like Benjamin Franklin.  It was very cool walking through the halls of the White House and retracing the footsteps of our nation’s leaders.

Secret Service agents are posted in each of the rooms.  Although the tour is self-guided, the Secret Service agents are a wealth of knowledge and will happily tell you about the history of the rooms and even give you the background information the art (and even artists!) and decor in each room.  Don’t be afraid to ask them questions- these ladies and gents are much more approachable than the guards at Buckingham Palace. 

Having the privilege of taking a tour of the White House is a once in a lifetime opportunity.  It is definitely something every American should do at least once in their lifetime!

This room gets its name from the large collection of vermeil (gilded silver) dating back to the 1700s. This ladies waiting room features portrait of six First Ladies.

What is There to do Nearby?

FAQ About the White House Tour

Can you visit the White House as a toursit?

Yes! You do not need an invitation for the White House tour.  You do, however, need to request a tour via a Member of Congress. 

Who is allowed to take a White House tour?

All U.S. citizens 18 years and older are able to request a tour of the White House.  Visitors 18 and older need to present a valid, government-issued ID.  At the time of publication, only American citizens are able to visit the White House.

Are kids allowed in the White House?

Yes!  This is a great place for kids to experience.  When we visited our twins were 4 and our daughter was 8.  This is a great way for kids to develop background knowledge for things they’ll learn in school!

Fun Fact:  While we were in the White House, we had to remind one of the boys not to touch anything.  In response, he made a face at Ashley behind her back. One of the Secret Service Agents laughed and said, “Man, you should have seen the face he gave you.”

Is there a dress code for the White House?

There is no set dress code for the White House.  Since we were visiting multiple places on the day of our tour of the White House, we wore jeans.

Visitors should plan on waiting in a line outside of the White House, prior to their tour, and should plan to dress for the weather outside.

How long does the White House Tour take?

Since the White House tour is unguided, you can take as much time as you need to see everything.  Most people spend about 30 – 45 minutes.

Can you take photos in the White House?

Photography is permitted so long as it does not interfere with other guests tour experience.  Phones and cameras with lenses no longer than 3 inches are allowed inside the White House.

Can I meet the President on the White House tour?

No, tours are limited to the East Wing.  The West Wing, and the Oval Office, are reserved for VIPs or guests of the President.

Save Our Info on Scoring a White House Tour

For future reference, be sure to save our post on getting a tour of the White House!   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC, check out our 4 day itinerary and our list of 15 Must See Places in Washington, DC.  

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

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National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States Washington DC

Don’t Skip the Impressive White House Visitor Center!

Theodore Roosevelt informational panel in the White House Visitor Center

One of the biggest surprises we encountered in DC was the White House Visitor Center. This must-see attraction is often overlooked- in fact, I missed it on my first 4 trips to the capital city! The White House Visitor exhibit area features nearly 100 historical artifacts, archival footage, interactive displays, informational panels, videos, and photos from the most famous house in the United States of America. There is even a large-scale model of the White House and tactile exhibits that kids will love!

Unlike the White House which requires that you book a tour in advance, the White House Visitor Center is open to anyone. The White House Visitor Center is operated by the National Park Service and is free and open to the public. It provides an insight into what life in the White House is like for the First Families through artifacts. These relics include Franklin D. Roosevelt’s desk, Abraham Lincoln’s china, copies of the First Lady’s date books, and photos of visits from royal families around the globe.

The theater space features a film called “The White House: Reflections from Within” which recounts personal stories from Presidents, First Ladies, and First Families. We suggest watching this 14-minute video first, even though the theater is located at the back of the center.

Even if you aren’t able to get a tour of the inside of the White House, we suggest checking out the Visitor Center. If you are lucky enough to snag a White House Tour, be sure to stop by the Visitor Center first to use their facilities as there are no restrooms available for public use at the White House.

Large Scale Model of the White House

Visiting to the White House Visitor Center

The White House Visitor Center is located at:
1450 Pennsylvania Ave. NW

 Admission to the White House Visitor Center is free.

The center is open Tuesday- Saturday from 7:30 am until 4 pm except for Federal Holidays.

 Visitors are required to pass through TSA-style airport security to enter the exhibit space.

Parking near the White House Visitor Center is limited as many of the street parking is limited to federal employees and bus parking.  We suggest taking the Metro to access the Visitor Center.  The nearest metro stations are Metro Center (Blue/Orange/Silver/Red lines) and Federal Triangle (Blue/Orange/Silver lines).  Both are about a 7-minute walk from the station to the White House Visitor Center.

Important Information

The follow is not permitted inside the White House Visitor Center:

  • Pets (except service animals)
  • Weapons of any kid
  • Glass Containers
  • Food
  • Beverages (except for white in clear plastic containers and baby formula)
  • Suitcases, duffel bags or bookbags larger than 18″x16″x8″
  • Any objects that may threaten public safety and security
A copy of First Lady Betty Ford's planner from when she hosted Queen Elizabeth II for a State Dinner

What is There to do Nearby?

China and stemware used during the Lincoln presidency

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National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States Washington DC

The Impressive Lincoln Memorial: 10 Things You Didn’t Know

The Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial was built to honor the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln.  The memorial is located on the western end of the National Mall in Washington, DC.  Each year, more than seven million people visit the Lincoln Memorial.  The structure is one of the most recognizable memorials in the world, and is known for being a beacon of hope and inspiration. 

Although plans for the memorial began shortly after Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, the monument took more than 50 years for it to be constructed and open to the public.  Construction was slowed by World War I and the memorial didn’t open until 1922.

The memorial is modeled after the Parthenon, a Greek Doric temple.  Architect Henry Bacon stated, “a memorial to the man who defended the democracy should be modeled after a structure from the birthplace of democracy.”  Other symbols in the monument represent the union, peace, justice, freedom, and other ideals important to Lincoln.

 The Lincoln Memorial has been the backdrop for many key points in American history.  Martin Luther King, Jr.’s I Have a Dream speech took place on the monuments steps.   The memorial was also the site of the Inaugural Celebration for America’s first black President of the United States, Barack Obama.

The monument is maintained by the National Park Service.  It was one of the first monuments to be included in the National Register of Historic Places.

10 Things You Didn't Know About the Lincoln Memorial

  • John Russell Pope originally planned for the Lincoln Memorial to modeled after the Egyptian pyramids, rather than the Greek temple style we see today.  He also proposed a traditional Mayan temple or a Mesopotamian ziggurat made up of 8 layers, each one smaller than the next, with Lincoln on top.  
  • Lincoln’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln, attended the dedication.   He was Lincoln’s only surviving son and was 78 years old at the time.
  • Although Lincoln was known as the Great Emancipator, the dedication ceremony was segregated.   
  • The Reflection Pool is actually part of the Lincoln Memorial.  The pool, tucked between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, is formally known as the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. 
  • The 36 columns that make up the memorial symbolize the 36 states that were in the Union during Lincoln’s lifetime.  
  • Even the building materials are symbolic.  The materials were brought in from Colorado, Indiana, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia to help portray the unity of the nation.   
  • The memorial includes two of Lincoln’s most famous speeches.  Both the Gettysburg Address and the second Inaugural Address are engraved into the wall on either side of Lincoln’s statue.  
  • There are also two murals inside that commemorate Lincoln’s ideals and core principles.  The murals depict freedom, liberty, immorality, justice, law, unity, fraternity, and charity.
  • An inscription etched into the steps of the Lincoln Memorial marks where Martin Luther King, Jr. stood to give his I Have a Dream speech.
  • Lincoln was interested in furthering the study of sign language.  He signed the charter for Gallaudet University, a school for the deaf, to be constructed.  A nod to this can be seen on the massive sculpture of Lincoln inside of the memorial.  His hands seem to be signing the letters A and L.

Visiting the Lincoln Memorial

The memorial is open 24 hours, 365 days a year.  

Physical Address:
2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW
Washington, DC 20002

Nearest Metro Stations:
Foggy Bottom (23rd St.& I St.NW) & Smithsonian (12th St. & Independence Ave.)

What is there to do Nearby?

The Lincoln Memorial is located in the heart of historical row known as the National Mall.    Nearby you’ll find:

  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • Vietnam Women’s Memorial
  • Korean War Veterans Memorial
  • Constitution Gardens
  • World War II Memorial
  • Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial 
  • Washington Monument
  • Smithsonian Museums
  • US Botanic Gardens
  • United States Capitol
  • The White House

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National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States Washington DC

Ford’s Theatre: Where Lincoln’s Remarkable Legacy Lives On

Ford's Theatre- the site the the Lincoln assassination

Ford’s Theatre is the scene of one of the most tragic events in American history; the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.  This National Historic Site is composed of four parts:  the Museum, the Theatre (where Lincoln was shot), the Petersen House (where Lincoln died), the museum, and the Aftermath Exhibits.  These sites have exhibits that tell the story of Lincoln’s presidency, his assassination, and the legacy Lincoln left.

History of Ford's Theatre

Ford’s Theatre was originally the home of the First Baptist Church of Washington.  John T. Ford bought the building after the congregation built a new church.  Ford renovated the space into the theatre which he called “Ford’s Athenaeum”.  

The site is most known for being the location of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination.  Following the death of Lincoln, the US Government paid Ford $88,000 for the theatre.  The building was taken over by the US military.  The War Department used the first floor to store records, the Library of the Surgeon General’s Office was on the second floor, and the Army Medical Museum was housed on the third floor.  

In 1893, the front section of the building collapsed killing 22 people and injuring another 68.  The building was repaired and became the Record and Pension Office.  

On Lincoln’s 123rd birthday, February 12, 1932, the building was transferred over to the National Park Service.  The National Park Service has worked tirelessly to restore the theatre and create a memorial to the nation’s 16th president.  

The Kids at Ford's Theater

Lincoln's Assassination

On the evening of April 14, 1865, just 5 days after General Lee’s surrender in the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln visited Ford’s Theatre to watch the play, Our American Cousin.

The play starred a famous actor, John Wilkes Booth, a Confederate sympathizer.  Booth was desperate to aid the dying Confederacy so he devised a plan to kidnap the President, Vice President, and Secretary of State.  The plan later evolved into murdering these heads of state.

Since Booth was such a notable actor, he had free access to the entire theatre- including the Presidential Box.  During the performance, John Wilkes Booth, snuck into the Presidential Box and shot Lincoln in the head.  Afterwards, he dropped his Deringer pistol and leapt from the balcony on to the stage before fleeing the theatre.

The.44 caliber pistol, used to assassinate one of the nation’s most beloved presidents, is on display in the museum.

Ford's Theatre Today

This National Historic Site is composed of four parts:  the Museum, Ford’s Theatre (where Lincoln was shot), the Petersen House (where Lincoln died), the museum, and the Aftermath Exhibits.  Both the theatre and the Petersen House are National Historic sites.  We suggest visiting all four of the locations below to get the full-experience.  Together, these 4 locations chronicle the story of Lincoln from when he swore in as President to the days after his death.  

The Museum

The museum features an impressive collection that follows Abraham Lincoln from the beginning of his presidency to his assassination.  Through historical relics, visitors learn about his life in the White House, his role in the Civil War and his meetings with the abolitionist, Frederick Douglass.  

The museum also introduces visitors to John Wilkes Booth. The exhibit explores Booth’s relationship with Lincoln, the root of his hatred toward the 16th president, and the group of people who conspired to decimate the US government.

The museum tour is self-guided.  A visit to the museum takes about 30 minutes.

The Historic Ford's Theatre

The historic theatre is the scene of one of the most tragic events in American history; the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.  The theatre looks very much like it did on that fateful evening.  The President’s Box adorns an American flag and a portrait of President George Washington, just as it did in 1865.  

The interior of the President’s Box is closed to the public to protect it from damage.

The theatre tour is self guided.  A visit to the theatre takes about 30 minutes.  There is a ranger on-site to answer any questions you may have.

The Petersen House

After Lincoln was shot, he was carried out of the theatre to the boarding house across the street. A crowd of people gathered outside as the doctor worked to save Lincoln’s life. Lincoln was surrounded by his wife, Mary, and several government officials.

The doctor gave hourly updates on the president’s condition.  His final update came at 7:22 a.m. on April 15, 1865; the nation’s 16th president had died.

The Aftermath Exhibits

This was my favorite part of the museum complex.  The Aftermath Exhibits transport you to a Washington street the morning after Lincoln’s assassination.  The exhibits tell the story of the crowds that gather to mourn the president, the funeral train back to Springfield, Illinois, and the 12-day hunt for John Wilkes Booth.  The exhibit also covers John Wilkes Booth’s capture in Virginia, his trial, and the fate of Booth and his conspirators.

Naturally, the exhibits also cover the impact of Lincoln’s life and death on the American people.  

Pro-Tip:  If you are visiting during the summer months, be sure to pack plenty of water.  Summers in DC are extremely hot (and this is coming from a Florida girl) and you can easily get dehydrated.  You may need to wait in line to access these sites and there is very little shade.

If you’re pressed for time, we suggest visiting the Historic Theatre and the Aftermath Museum.  

If you have a little more time, we suggest taking the Metro to the Smithsonian Station and walking west down the National Mall to the Lincoln Memorial.

Visiting Ford's Theatre

Address: 
511 10th St. NW
Washington, DC 20004

Metro Stops:  Metro Center and Gallery Place/Chinatown

Parking: There is a parking garage located directly next to the theatre.

What is There to do Nearby?

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