Fun things to do with kids in and around Washington, D.C. in the winter months

Carousel on the National Mall

Throughout the year it is amazing to see how many different things there are to do with kids in the Washington D.C. region.

The top-rate museums and that National Zoo are a given, but did you know there are a number of other lesser-known fun things you can do and get the kids outside, even in the winter?

6 fun things to do with kids in and around Washington D.C. in the winter

1. See money get printed at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. This is one cool tour!

2. Take a spin on the historic Carousel located on the National Mall (there is a nominal fee and located very close to the Smithsonian museums - a great way to pair a few different activities). Bundle up!

3. Head over to Old Town Alexandria, especially if you have older kids. There are some neat little museums and the Torpedo Art Factory Center. Don't forget to stop for ice cream on King Street (Pop's is a favorite in our family).

4. Visit Mount Vernon. Open 365 days a year, the Colonial-themed Christmas trees and decorations throughout the property are beautiful. Aladdin the Camel will also arrive for his annual visit just before Thanksgiving and stays through early January. Year round you can also visit some the farm animals and take a hike through the wooded trails and see wild critters. We see a lot of squirrels, birds and other animals around the property each winter. There are often holiday-themed events on Mount Vernon's calendar as well.

 

5. See the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution at the National Archives. School-aged kids will love the ability to see what they are learning about in school.

6. Visit the U.S. Botanic Gardens. In a word, beautiful. Every year the USBG has a wonderful display, especially those who are fans of trains. Before or after your visit, you can see the Capitol Christmas Tree, as it is located very nearby.
 

Winter months can be a drag, and there are always activities, such as movies, bowling, and other norms, but living in the District area provides some unique opportunities for fun things to do in the winter months. In the near future, I'll be posting about specific holiday-themed events going on in the area.