National Children’s Museum

We recently visited the National Children’s Museum in DC. The museum includes dozens of interactive exhibits and its perfect for kids of all ages!

There is a currently a Thomas the Train exhibit through May 15th. We could have spent hours in just that area! It featured life size characters to climb on and interact with, a train station, a giant train table, and more! The whole area was well planned and super educational in an age appropriate manner. My kids loved an area where they had to work together to load coal and water onto the train to make it run. 

There are several areas in the museum designed for ages 0-3, so even the youngest visitors will have fun! These areas include the “little dreamers” and “little movers” exhibits. I loved that there are TWO areas for little ones in separate locations in the museum – this allows you to continue to explore with your older kiddos while always having a spot nearby to let you little ones play as well!

The centerpiece of the museum is the “Dream Machine” a 3-story climber and slide. This area is recommended for ages 5+. Adults are welcome to accompany their children, but be aware it is tight! I went up with the twins (4). 100% do NOT send your young toddler up there alone – trust me! There is also a smaller slide in this area for younger kiddos to enjoy – all 3 of mine loved it!

There is SO much to do at this museum – my kids also loved the Paw Patrol rescue training room and the car races with adjustable ramps. My youngest loved the “Little Dreamers” area! Check out their website here for all the different exhibits they offer.

📍1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC
🚽 Bathrooms: yes, super clean family bathrooms
🅿️: we parked in the Ronald Reagan Building garage, $25 for the day
👩‍👧‍👦Solo w/ kids?: VERY busy, strongly suggest bringing another adult if you have multiple mobile little ones. 
🛒 Stroller friendly?: yes
⏰: Currently Open 9:30-4:30 Thurs-Sun. 
🍽: Museum Cafe coming soon, but there is a food court in the basement of the Reagan building where we ate. 
😷: masks required for ages 2+, very busy on a Friday morning