Raising kids in DC does not have to cost a fortune. Some of the best things to do with your children here are free, and many of them are open all year. This guide is organized by season, so you can always find an easy idea for the weekend.
Everything below comes from official sources like the Smithsonian, the National Park Service and the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. Hours and events change, so each section points to the official page to check before you head out.
Free all year long
- Smithsonian museums. The Smithsonian says admission is free at all of its museums in the DC area. Four locations need free entry passes or tickets, including the National Zoo and the Air and Space Museum, so reserve ahead on the Smithsonian visit page.
- National Zoo. Admission is free, and every visitor needs a free Entry Pass. Parking is extra: $30 if bought in advance and $40 on the day, according to the Zoo’s pass page. The Metro is a great way to skip that cost. See our double stroller Metro tips.
- National Gallery of Art. The Gallery says admission is always free, with no passes or tickets for the galleries and exhibitions. Its family page lists programs for children and adults, and it has a hands-on play space called Playtime in the East Building atrium (check the calendar for times).
- Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. The National Park Service says no entrance pass is required, and it is open year round, closed only a few days each year. Check the NPS fees page.
- DC Public Library. Story times, baby playtime, book clubs and free computer classes are on the library’s events page. See also our library programs post.
- Your own neighborhood playground. DPR’s playgrounds are free to use. Our ward guide helps you find one.
Spring
- Cherry blossoms. The National Park Service tracks the bloom on its Bloom Watch page. Peak bloom means 70 percent of the Yoshino cherry blossoms are open, and the date changes every year with the weather.
- More ideas in our spring activities post and 5 things to do in DC in the spring.
Summer
- Swimming. DPR says admission to its pools is free to DC residents. You need a free membership by creating a DPR account, and a photo ID is required for indoor pools. Non-residents pay. See DPR’s admission and fees page and outdoor pools page for the season schedule.
- Splash pads. See free splash pads in DC and the spray park list in our playground directory.
- More: free family activities in DC during summer, outdoor movie nights and farmers markets with kids.
Fall
- Autumn is a lovely time for a walk. The NPS says Kenilworth is still a great place to visit after the lotus and water lily season ends, and our Rock Creek Park trails post has easy paths.
- Browse our fall festival guide for pumpkin patches and corn mazes (some have a cost).
Winter
- Cold days are perfect for the Smithsonian museums, the National Gallery of Art and the library. Our quiet indoor activities post and rainy day activities have more ideas.
- Bundle up for winter birding at Kenilworth, which the NPS says is open year round.
- See winter holiday events. Some, like ice skating, may cost money, so check first.
More free ideas from Moms of Action
Keep exploring
Sources: Smithsonian (si.edu), Smithsonian’s National Zoo, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service (Kenilworth and Cherry Blossom Bloom Watch), DC Public Library and DC DPR. Free offers and passes can change, so always check the official page before you go.
Elizabeth Redd, the Publisher of this website, grew up in a small town called Newhall, West Virginia, before moving to Washington, DC, in 1964. She worked in Prince George's County Public School System in Maryland for 40 years, opened a wig shop, made clothes, and participated in fashion shows during the '70s and '80s. She worked part-time as a caterer for a couple of years. Hand dancing has been one of her passions. She has also worked in Internet marketing for the last ten years. She also has a passion for learning new things.
She has learned that success is measured not so much by the position one has reached in life but by the obstacles one has overcome while trying to succeed. One thing is for sure: she is living her best life.
