As the end of the school year quickly approaches, parents start to wonder how to keep the kids entertained during summer break. Perhaps you have a vacation booked in the city or are just planning to visit for the day, either way you’re in for a treat. In Washington DC, you can look forward to kid friendly activities all through the months of June, July and August. Take them to some historic areas, try out new cuisines or just let them run wild at some of the city’s lovely parks and green areas.
In DC, our schools finish the school year on the 16th of June, so prepare for the attractions to be a little busier after this date. Thankfully, there are so many things to do and see that you’re not restricted to busy attractions or long lines. Here are our top picks for spending those long summer days in the city:
Visit Planet Hollywood
One of the most exciting places in the city for kids to go is Planet Hollywood, as it takes them onto a movie set for a day. The Washington DC branch of this restaurant chain is located on Pennsylvania Avenue, which is ideally placed after a long day of sightseeing. Kids love checking out the props and lifelike models, with great food to go along with it. Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy the burgers and all American cuisine that they can experience here.
See the Animals at the National Zoo
A brand new panda cub has only just been placed on display at the National Zoo, so your kids could be among the first to see him. Bei Bei has only been viewable to the public in recent months and so far the reception is good. As a young panda, he has more spirit and gusto than his parents, who can be a little slower in the enclosure. He’s one of the few panda cubs in the United States, with close family relations all over the world. Michelle Obama and Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan picked the name for this little creature and the public have instantly fallen in love with him.
Go Behind the Scenes at a Tourist Attraction
Famous stately homes, like Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, will sometimes allow visitors a sneak peek behind the scenes. As little as two times a year, the staff at this attraction sell tickets to see more of the house than ever before. Regular tours don’t usually include a view of the upper floors of the house, but their behind the scenes tour does. This is a more in depth tour for lovers of history, but if this seems too long for your kids then you can always check out the shorter tour instead. It’s an interesting look back at the life of one of our nation’s greatest figures and it could even help them with future school projects!
One thing’s for sure if you visit DC this summer, you and your kids will have a whole load of fun! Check out as many attractions as possible and make this year’s vacation a one to remember.