Short answer: history, museums, food, and fun. Keep reading to discover why exploring the capital with your teens can be an exciting, educational, and unforgettable experience.
Know before you go. Our top Washington D.C travel tips
Travelling to D, C with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family and is one of the top family destinations in the USA. Did you know that Washington, D.C., isn’t a state or a city? It’s a federal district that was formed in 1790
There are so many things to do in the Federal District of Washington, and having information on the best place to stay, how to get around, which currency to use and more is extremely important. Below you will find some information for planning a hassle-free family vacation in Washington D.C, the capital of the United States of America.
Where to stay in Washington D.C with teenagers
Great vacations with teens start with some great vacation planning. When you are planning a trip to North America with teens you’ll never be short of options for your family accommodation in Washington DC
In the city, you find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to the National Capital Region.
For luxury family-friendly hotels in Washington DC, we recommend taking a look at The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center , Sofitel Washington Lafayette Square and The Dupont Circle Hotel
For more midprice and budget-friendly options in D.C., we recommend looking at Residence Inn by Marriott , Washington Plaza Hotel and Holiday Inn Express .
If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs for your teen travel holidays, we recommend using Hotels.com and Trip Advisor to find the best prices for your family vacation to Washington DC.
Washington apartment alternative for your stay
If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation when on your trip with teenagers in Washington, then an apartment is the best choice for you on your family vacation. There are so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options in the capital as well.
You can search VRBO for holiday apartments or if you’re looking for something a bit more fancy, maybe with an amazing view or a swimming pool, then The Plum Guide will help you find the perfect apartment for teens on your Washington trip with family.
Getting to Washington D.C
Washington is one of the best family destinations in North America for family travel with teens. The capital of the United States is connected by highways, long distant buses, trains and planes, all bringing people daily to the city. This makes Washington DC one of the easiest family travel destinations to get to in the USA.
You can fly into Washington Reagan National Airport a major airport that lies just 3 miles south of downtown Washington, D.C. on the Potomac River. American Airlines, Republic Airways, PSA Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta, United, JetBlue and WestJet all fly non-stop to Washington Ronald Reagan. Book your flights to Washington with Skyscanner.
If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip, you should consider getting a lounge pass with a Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass
You can book an airport transfer straight to your hotel door.
You can catch a train to Washington, Amtrak is the most popular and convenient way to travel to Washington DC by train. Acela Express is a high-speed train that connects Washington DC to Boston, New York City, and other cities in the Northeast. Book your train tickets with Omio.
DC can be reached directly from 67 cities and indirectly from anywhere across the USA. Flixbus tickets are available at great prices. Bus travel with teens in America can add so many wonderful experiences for teens on vacation. Book your bus tickets today with Flixbus
If you want to follow your own schedule and make trips out of the city, then car hire is a great option with teens in DC. Hiring a car allows you the freedom to stop and start where you like.
Maybe you want to make a trip cross-country? An RV is a great way to travel to the capital with teens.
How to get around the city
Washington DC has a well-developed public transportation system, which includes buses, subways, and trains. Here are some options for using public transportation during your holiday
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates the Metro, which is a subway system that connects DC with Maryland and Virginia. The Metro operates from 5:00 am to 11:30 pm on weekdays and from 7:00 am to 11:30 pm on weekends. You can purchase fare cards or use your contactless credit or debit card to pay for Metro rides. Bus:
The Metrobus is another option for public transportation in DC. There are several routes throughout the city, and you can use the same fare card as the Metro. The buses operate from early morning until late at night.
The DC Circulator is a bus system that operates on specific routes around the city. It costs $1 per ride, and there are several routes that cover popular tourist areas.
There are plenty of taxi companies operating in the D.C. area and ride-sharing apps like Lyft and Uber are very popular
Weather in Washington
Washington DC has a humid subtropical climate, which means it has hot and humid summers and mild winters. In Spring (March-May): The average temperature ranges from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) with occasional rainfall. InSummer (June – August): The average temperature ranges from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) with high humidity and occasional thunderstorms.
The Fall (September – November)brings average temperature ranges from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) with less humidity and occasional rainfall. Winter (December – February) average temperatures ranges from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C) with occasional snowfall/
Seasonal essentials for travel to Washington Dc
Winter scarf Small travel umbrella Base layers for warmth Gloves Winter jacket Waterproof shoes Sunscreen Sunglasses Water bottle Men’s & women’s sunhat Convertible pants Compact travel towel
Washington for international visitors
International travel to the capital requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance for sure in the USA. Medical care is not cheap and if you want good quality care it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance.
The official currency of The USA is the dollar. If you use your bank account from home, you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an internation rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about,
For International travellers, travel insurance is a must, get a quote through Insurance Masters and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses.
Do you need a visa to visit Washington? The country of The United States of America may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa.
Load a Revolut Travel Money card with US dollars for your visit and save on transaction fees
Make phone calls with an international sim card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone.
A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer.
Make sure you grab a VPN for your trip. VPN Proxy Master has plans available from one month to one year to help keep your data safe from hackers and malware while traveling.
Where can I go in DC if my teenager is ill?
There are several hospitals in Washington DC with emergency departments, including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital , MedStar Washington Hospital Center and the Children’s National Hospital.
Additionally, there are several urgent care clinics and 24-hour clinics in the area, such as CVS MinuteClinic, Urgent Care Center of Arlington , and MedStar PromptCare.
We cannot stress enough, please have MEDICAL INSURANCE for any holiday to the USA.
Travel accessories for teenagers
For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account in order to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories
Powerbank to keep phones going
Action camera
Foldable jewellery case for girls
Bluetooth travel speaker
Compression packing cubes for luggage
Lightweight day pack
Travel journal
Travel neck wallet
Wearable super soft travel blanket
Scarf with hidden pockets for money & cards
The Washington, DC Sightseeing Day Pass
Are you planning a family trip to Washington, DC and want to see all the major attractions without breaking the bank? Look no further than the Washington, DC Sightseeing Day Pass!
With this pass, you’ll have access to 15 incredible landmarks and monuments around the city, including the iconic Lincoln Memorial, the impressive National Museum of American History, and the awe-inspiring Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Plus, you’ll save big on admission fees compared to buying tickets separately.
This pass is perfect for families touring DC with kids. So don’t miss out on this incredible deal – grab your Washington, DC Sightseeing Day Pass today and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in the nation’s capital!
Things to do in Washington DC with teenagers
Travelling with teenagers can be a unique and rewarding experience. Teenagers often have their own interests and preferences when it comes to travel, making it important to plan a vacation that caters to their needs. In this article, you will find plenty of options to keep teenagers engaged and entertained while on vacation.
Arthouse Immersive Art Experience
Artechouse is an innovative art space in Washington DC that uses technology to create immersive, interactive exhibits. The space is dedicated to showcasing new forms of art that combine digital technology, science, and interactive experiences.
Teenagers would likely enjoy Artechouse because the exhibits offer a unique and engaging way to experience art. Many of the exhibits are interactive, allowing visitors to become a part of the art itself. This type of experience can be particularly appealing to teenagers, who are often drawn to interactive and immersive experiences.
Additionally, the use of technology in the exhibits can make them feel cutting-edge and exciting, which may be particularly appealing to tech-savvy teenagers. Grab your tickets today.
Smithsonian – best Museum in DC for teens
There are actually several Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. In fact, the Smithsonian Institution is a group of museums and research centres that cover a wide range of subjects, from art and history to science and technology. Some of the best Smithsonian museums for teenagers include:
National Air and Space Museum – This museum has a large collection of aircraft and spacecraft, including the Wright brothers’ plane and the Apollo 11 command module.
A family on holiday in Washington D.C
National Museum of American History – This museum showcases the history of the United States through exhibits on topics such as the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement.
National Museum of Natural History – This museum has exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to gems and minerals to live insects and animals.
National Museum of African American History and Culture – This museum tells the story of African American history and culture in the United States through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays.
National Portrait Gallery – This museum has a collection of portraits of important figures in American history, from presidents to celebrities.
Overall, in my experience, each museum offers a unique experience, so it’s worth considering your teenagers’ interests when deciding which museums to visit.
Play Laser Tag at ShadowLand Laser Adventures
Laser tag is a popular indoor game that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a fun and challenging activity that can be enjoyed in either competitive settings. In Laser tag, players you can play as part of a team or play by yourself and try to outsmart your opponents by tagging them with lasers. Laser Tag is a gentile no-contact version of paintball.
National Mall – Washington DC attractions for teenagers
The National Mall in Washington, DC is the ultimate destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a fun day out with family or friends. This expansive park stretches from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial and is home to iconic monuments , memorials, and museums.
Read more: 52 best things to do in Chicago with teenagers
Take a stroll through the gardens of the Smithsonian Castle, marvel at the Washington Monument’s towering obelisk, or pay your respects at the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial.
With plenty of green space for picnics and games, the National Mall is the perfect place to soak up some sunshine and experience the best of American history and culture.
International Spy Museum – Cool stuff in Washington DC
Being the capital of the USA and home to many foreign Embassies, the city has seen its fair share of spy activity in its long history. This interactive museum will be hot with the whole family, as well as learning about spies you will become and spy and try your hand at stealing secrets and code-breaking.
You will find stories from the American Revolution to 21st-century cyber warfare, you can see real artefacts from Cold War spies and more. This Museum is sure to be a hit.
Watching sports in DC
Washington, DC is a sports lover’s paradise with a range of professional teams to choose from. If you’re looking for ice hockey action, the Capitals are the team to watch, with their fast-paced and exciting games at the Capital One Arena.
Fun outdoor activities for teenagers in Washington DC
For basketball fans, the Wizards play at the same venue, offering up high-scoring and high-flying thrills. If you’re more into baseball, check out the Nationals at Nationals Park , where you can soak up some sun and enjoy a cold drink while watching America’s pastime.
For fans of the NFL, the Washington Commanders play at FedEx Field, while soccer fans can catch DC United matches at Audi Field. With top-notch facilities and passionate fans, these teams are sure to provide an unforgettable sporting experience.
The Capital Wheel
Much like many other cities, Washington DC has its own version of a big wheel for tourists. The Capital Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel that takes you on a thrilling ride high above the city.
The Capital Wheel is popular with teenagers in Washington D.C
It’s over 180 feet tall and has 42 fully enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas that can hold up to 8 people each. As you ascend to the top, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the National Mall, the Potomac River, and the surrounding area.
On a clear day, you can see up to 16 miles away! You can also see some of D.C.’s most iconic landmarks, like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Capitol Building. Grab your ticket to ride today.
Amusement Arcades
Amusement arcades offer a variety of entertainment options for teenagers as a great way to spend a few hours having fun. They can play the newest video games or indulge in some classic pinball machines of the past.
Best teen-friendly activities in Washington DC
Some of the more modern arcades will have Laser Tag, bumper cars and indoor mini golf as options. Arcades are popular because they offer things to do that are fun and affordable to do, most arcades have food and beverage options for you.
In Dc head to Penn Social which is a two-story location spanning a 10,000-square-foot space that offers a large collection of games. The Boardwalk Bar and Arcade feature a range of games from Iron Man Pinball to Big Buck Hunter and Pacman. A great family venue where parents can grab a drink while kids have some fun.
Museum of the Bible
Straight off the bat, this may not be for everyone, but for those who have an interest in the Christian faith, the Museum of the Bible may be interesting.
With 7 floors of interactive and informative displays, this museum tells the stories of Noah’s ark, the burning bush, Passover and more. You can see rare and fascinating artefacts spanning the history of the Christian faith. Book your entry tickets today .
Why not book a combo ticket with entry to both The Museum of the Bible + The African American Tour and save some money on entries
Scavenger Hunt
Are you looking for a fun and exciting activity to do with your teenage kids in Washington DC? Look no further than the Wacky Washington DC Scavenger Hunt! This adventure will take you and your family on a thrilling scavenger hunt throughout the city, exploring some of its most iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The Wacky Washington DC Scavenger Hunt covers all the must-see spots in DC, from the Washington Monument to the National Mall. The whole experience is designed to be kid-friendly and engaging, so your teens will have a blast every step of the way.
So if you’re looking for fun teenage things to do in Washington DC, book the Wacky Washington DC Scavenger Hunt now and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!
There are a number of different scavenger hints and exploration games you can do in DC. Why not try The National Mall Exploration Game , Scavenger Hunt Adventure by Operation City Quest and Washington DC Museums Scavenger Hunt
Epic Evening e-Scooter Tour
Looking for a fun and exciting way to explore Washington DC with your teens? Look no further than the Epic Evening e-Scooter Tour! This tour is the perfect way to see all the sights and sounds of the city in a unique and thrilling way.
Hop on an e-scooter and zoom around DC as you take in all the iconic landmarks and monuments. You’ll see the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and even the White House! The best part? This tour takes place in the evening, which means you’ll get to see all the monuments lit up in all their glory.
So why not book the Epic Evening e-Scooter Tour today and add some excitement to your list of things to do in Washington DC with your teens ?
Underground Donut Tour
Have you ever heard of a donut tour? Well, in Washington D.C. you can experience just that! This exciting tour takes you underground to some of the city’s most historic donut shops, where you’ll get to taste a variety of delicious donuts while learning about the rich history behind each one.
Washington DC tours for families with teenagers
Not only will you get to indulge in some of the best doughnuts in town, but you’ll also get to see parts of the city that are off the beaten path. This is a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones while learning about the rich history and culture of Washington D.C. So, what are you waiting for?
Book your tickets now and join the fun-filled Underground Donut Tour in Washington D.C. for an unforgettable family experience! insky
DC fun places for teenagers -Indoor Skydiving
Indoor skydiving is a new trend that is catching on with teenagers. It is a safe way to experience the thrill of skydiving and the feeling of free fall in a vertical wind tunnel. The powerful fans create an upward flow of air that allows you to float in mid-air, just like you would during a real skydive. This makes it a fun and challenging activity that is perfect for teenagers who want to try something new and exciting. The indoor skydiving facility in the capital will have packages that include training, gear rental, and multiple flights. You can find out more information at IFLY indoor Skydiving
Family fun adventures on a Segway Tour
How do you make the best vacations for teenagers? Segway! There is nothing more fun than zipping around a city on a Segway and for teens, this has to be one of the best things to do in DC with teens. A Segway tour is a great opportunity to have fun and learn about the city.
Fun outdoor activities for teenagers in Washington DC
Segway tours are for the whole family, you will be given instructions and a short amount of practise time before you set off on your adventures in Washington DC and see the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Monument with teenagers. Book your Segway tour today. idrc
Indoor Rock Climbing
Indoor rock climbing can be found in most major cities, and many offer classes to teach beginners the basics of wall climbing or free climbing for more advanced. Once you have learned the basics, you can start exploring different routes on the wall.
Washington DC sports and recreation for teenagers
Indoor rock climbing is a great experience for teens looking for something to do in Washington DC when it’s raining. Movement Crystal City has a number of inverted slopes, bouldering walls and cave arches.
The staff will show you how to tie our knots and encouraged you to successfully make it to the top of the climbing walls.
Hop on hop off bus
The hop on hop off bus is always popular with family travellers. A sightseeing bus tour in the city is a great way to give you an overview of the city.
The bus route takes you to all the Washington attractions, so you can see everything from the White House, the Washington Monument, and the National Mall.
This tour bus allows you to get out and visit all the top attractions and hop back on the next bus when it appears. Book your tickets today.
Why not book a combo ticket with entry to both The Museum of the Bible + The Hop on Hop off bus tour and save some money on entries
Mini Golf
Mini golf is a classic family-friendly activity that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. It offers a fun and engaging way to spend time outdoors and can be a great bonding experience for families and teenagers on vacation.
The Mini golf courses in Dc feature creative and challenging holes that require skill and strategy, making it an entertaining and rewarding activity for everyone involved. There is no shortage of choice for mini golf, you can head to East Potomac Mini Golf, Swingers Crazy Golf or The Pottery .
Walking Tours in Washington
A walking tour can be a fantastic way for families to explore a new city or destination while on vacation. A walking tour allows families to immerse themselves in the local culture and history of a place, providing a fun and educational experience for both kids and adults
Some of the best walking tours in the capital include:
Dc History of Slavery tour
White House Secrets and Scandals
Arlington National Cemetery
Comedy walking tour
Ghost tour
Ghost story tours are a popular tourist attraction in many parts of the world. They are usually conducted by a guide who tells stories in an engaging manner about the ghosts and legends of the area.
The tour guides often dress up in period costumes to add to the atmosphere. The tours usually take place at night, when it is dark and spooky to set the atmosphere, Teens love these sorts of tours as they put an interesting spin on the history of the location
In Washington, you can go on the Ghosts of DC Walking Tour , The Ghosts of Georgetown Walking Tour and DC Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures
Read more: 10 best city breaks for families in the USA with teenagers
Things to do in Washington with teenage girls – High Tea
High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and of course, tea. For mothers and daughters, it’s a cherished ritual that often brings them closer together.
If you’re looking for something to do in Washington with teenage girls, then you should experience high tea firsthand, there are plenty of places to go. But be warned – it can be quite addictive! Once you’ve had a taste of those delicious treats, you’ll likely want to indulge again and again.
You will find the best High Tea, Afternoon teas in Washington at St Regis, King Bird at the Watergate Hotel and The Tavern at the Henley Park
Washington Monument
The Washington Monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in Washington, DC. It was designed by Robert Mills in 1836 and took over 36 years to complete due to lack of funding and the Civil War.
Exploring the city and seeing the sites is always fun for teens
The obelisk shape was chosen to reflect the ancient Egyptian architecture that George Washington admired. Visitors can take an elevator or climb the stairs to the top for breathtaking views of the city, including the National Mall, the White House, and the Lincoln Memorial.
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is a majestic monument in Washington, D.C. that honours Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. It features a giant statue of Lincoln sitting in contemplation, surrounded by 36 columns representing the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death.
Visiting historic sites in D.C
The walls of the memorial are inscribed with some of Lincoln’s most famous speeches, including the Gettysburg Address. Visitors can also take in panoramic views of the National Mall, the Washington Monument, and the Capitol Building.
The memorial serves as a symbol of Lincoln’s leadership and the unity he sought to achieve during his presidency. The two best times to visit are early morning before the crowds so that you get Lincoln sitting above you, and then return for floodlight at night . They’re very different and magical experiences you will not forget. LTG
Jefferson Memorial
The Jefferson Memorial is a beautiful and historic monument located in Washington D.C., dedicated to one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. It’s situated on the banks of the Tidal Basin and is one of the most popular attractions in the city.
The monument was designed by John Russell Pope and was completed in 1943, in honor of the 200th anniversary of Thomas Jefferson’s birth. The centrepiece of the memorial is a bronze statue of Jefferson, which stands 19 feet tall and weighs over five tons. He is depicted with a contemplative expression, holding a book in his hand.
The Jefferson Memorial is not only a stunning work of architecture and art, but it’s also a symbol of the values that Thomas Jefferson stood for. It’s a place where visitors can reflect on the importance of freedom, democracy, and the pursuit of happiness
The most Instagrammable shots in Washington
The best family vacations for teens always incorporate something they love. Social media is important and teenagers can use Instagram to stay connected with friends, share their interests, and express themselves creatively. We recommend visiting Blagden Alley, The Friendship Archway in Chinatown and The Lincoln Memorial for the best Instagram shots in DC for teens
Professional photoshoot
As our kids get older, we spend less and less time with them making family travel memories. One excellent way to capture some of these important family vacations with teenagers moments is to hire a professional photographer for a few hours to make some lifelong memories for you on your family vacation with teens. The photographer will supply everything, your family just needs to provide the smiles for your Washington with teenagers photoshoot. Book an unforgettable family travel memory today and secure your family travel photo shoot.
Annual events in Washington DC that teens will love
Washington DC is a city with a lot of exciting events and activities that can appeal to teenagers. Here are some annual events that are particularly popular with teens
National Cherry Blossom Festiva
