How to Spend 4 Days in Washington DC (with daily itinerary-Day 2)

Washington DC with Kids: Day 2 Itinerary (Our Perfect Day Exploring the Nation’s Capital)

Morning: Bagels, Cherry Blossoms & the Tidal Basin

We kicked off the morning with a quick stop at this local favorite bagel spot near our hotel in Dupont Circle. Heads up: it’s cash only, but the bagels and coffee are totally worth it. Then, because it was peak cherry blossom season, we headed straight to the Tidal Basin for family photos. The cherry blossoms make such a perfect backdrop — honestly, if you want that iconic Washington DC Instagram shot, this is the place.

One of the absolute highlights of our Day 2 in Washington DC was the family photoshoot during peak cherry blossom season. We booked our session with Kattari Yamay Photography (https://kattariyamay.photo/), who was fantastic from start to finish. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, creating the most breathtaking backdrop you could imagine. It was such a special moment capturing our family surrounded by these delicate pink and white flowers, making memories that will last a lifetime.

We organized this photoshoot with a couple of close friends, which made the experience even more fun and relaxed. We all piled into Ubers from the Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle hotel — a quick and easy ride that was perfect for avoiding parking hassles near the Tidal Basin. The convenience of Uber meant we could focus entirely on enjoying the moment without worrying about logistics or lugging gear around. Plus, the drivers were super friendly and helpful, adding to the overall great vibe of the day.

Once we arrived at the Tidal Basin, the scenery was absolutely stunning — the cherry blossoms framed iconic landmarks like the Jefferson Memorial in the distance, making the photos even more meaningful. Our photographer had such a great eye for capturing candid moments as well as beautiful posed shots. Whether it was the kids running around on their scooters or us standing quietly together by the reflecting pool, every picture felt like a snapshot of pure joy. If you’re visiting DC during cherry blossom season, I can’t recommend this photoshoot enough — it’s a must-do family experience that blends history, natural beauty, and priceless memories.

Plus, the Tidal Basin gives you easy access to a leisurely walk around several beautiful memorials. We snapped photos by the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and then walked over to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. Both spots have such rich history, and the kids actually loved the peaceful vibe around the water.

Late Morning: Scooting from World War II Memorial to Lincoln Memorial

One of the best parts? The kids brought their scooters — seriously, scooting along the National Mall was a blast. We started at the World War II Memorial, which is right by the Reflecting Pool, and zipped all the way down to the Lincoln Memorial. If you’re visiting the nation’s capital, the Lincoln Memorial is a must-see, and scooting made it way more fun for the little ones.

We grabbed those classic family photos in front of Abraham Lincoln and took a moment to chat about the rich history of this incredible site — it’s one of the top things to do in DC with kids, trust me.

Since public transportation options from there aren’t super kid-friendly, we caught an Uber back to the hotel for some much-needed naps.

Watch our day 2 itinerary here:

@simplekidshairsty

#creatorsearchinsights Washington DC with kids over Spring Break. PART 2 of my ultimate 4 day itinerary to Washington DC with kids #washingtondcwithkids #washingtondcitenerary

♬ original sound – SimpleKidsHairstyle

Afternoon: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (aka the Natural History Museum)

After naps, we headed over to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History — seriously, one of the most popular Smithsonian museums. The best part? It’s free and has no timed entry tickets, so you can just go at your own pace. We spent over an hour exploring all the interactive exhibits, and yes, the kids were all about the giant dinosaur skeletons and the Hope Diamond on the second floor.

It’s the perfect way to combine fun and learning, especially if you’re visiting with little ones who love animals, gems, and just cool stuff in general.

Dinner in Dupont Circle & Evening Treat

For dinner, we took the Metro back to Dupont Circle — easy access, which is why public transportation in Washington DC is the best way to get around downtown DC — and ate at Sette Osteria. The outdoor seating was great for the kids, and honestly, the Italian food was a nice change after a day of monuments and museums.

We capped the night with a visit to Larry’s Ice Cream, a neighborhood gem that became our go-to spot for an evening treat every night of the trip. If you’re anywhere near M Street or Wisconsin Avenue, it’s a perfect spot to stop by.

Quick Tips for Day 2:

• Scooters or bikes? Bring ‘em! They’re a game-changer on the National Mall between the Washington Monument, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

• The National Museum of African American History and the National Portrait Gallery are also right nearby and amazing if you want more Smithsonian Institution stops.

• If you’re interested in guided tours, the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court are great places to check out on Capitol Hill — just book ahead!

• Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery if you want a powerful, reflective experience about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the final resting place of so many heroes.

• If you have more time, day trips to Mount Vernon or the Washington National Cathedral give you even deeper dives into the history of George Washington and our nation’s heritage.

Honestly, Washington D.C. is such a great place for families to explore history while keeping it fun and easy. Between the National Archives, Library of Congress (the largest library in the country!), and free tours at the Smithsonian museums, you really can’t go wrong.

Plus, with so many iconic landmarks, from the Capitol Building to the Washington Monument and Lafayette Square, the city is packed with memories waiting to be made. Stay tuned for Day 3 — we’ll be checking out more hidden gems and the best observation decks for killer views!

You know, one thing I keep coming back to after this trip is just how important it is to take young kids traveling — especially to a place like Washington DC. It’s not just about the sightseeing or the famous landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial or the Washington Monument. It’s so much bigger than that.

Traveling with little ones opens up their world in ways that staying home never could. Even on this trip, I saw it happening — the wonder in their eyes when they first saw the reflecting pool, the questions they asked at the National Museum of American History, and the excitement running through the halls of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Those moments are priceless.

Kids absorb so much from these experiences. Being in a place with so much rich history — from George Washington’s legacy at Mount Vernon to the powerful stories at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum — helps them understand that history isn’t just something in books. It’s real, it’s living, and it shapes the world they’re growing up in. I want my kids to feel connected to that.

Plus, traveling teaches patience, flexibility, and curiosity. Navigating public transportation around downtown DC, walking between memorials like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and even just trying new foods at Eastern Market or Adams Morgan — these are lessons that go beyond any classroom. They learn about culture, kindness, and how to adapt to new situations.

I also think travel builds confidence. For a young child, crossing the Potomac River or climbing the steps at the Capitol Building is an achievement. It’s a story they carry with them — the time they saw the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery or stood in awe in front of the National Gallery of Art’s sculpture garden. These experiences make them feel capable and adventurous.

And honestly, traveling together as a family creates memories and bonds that last a lifetime. It’s about more than just seeing iconic landmarks or ticking off a 4-day itinerary. It’s about the laughs, the challenges, the little surprises along the way — like finding that perfect spot by the tidal basin or catching a glimpse of the White House from Lafayette Square. Those moments bring us closer.

Taking kids to free museums like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History or the National Museum of African American History means they get access to the best educational experiences without the pressure of commercialized attractions. It’s enriching and accessible, making it a great introduction to travel for families on any budget.

I know it’s not always easy — there’s packing, the logistics, the meltdowns — but the payoff? Totally worth it. Seeing their minds light up, hearing their questions, watching them connect dots about the world and its history — that’s what travel with kids is really about.

So if you’re thinking about whether or not to take your young kids on a trip like this, I say go for it. It’s one of the best gifts you can give them — an early window into the nation’s capital, its stories, and the world beyond your hometown. And trust me, it’s a great time for you too.