In Washington, D.C., you finally get a big payback for being a taxpayer! The most popular sights won't cost you a cent: there are over 70 free attractions in the city, including many world famous museums.

Definitely an educational family experience, there are a variety of hotels available that offer family specials, such as children stay free programs. And don't forget that you can enjoy Washington, D.C. by escorted tour: no hassles, no planning, just pure vacation!

Best Time to Visit

Any time of year is a good time to visit Washington, D.C., but if you're after good weather, spring and fall are considered best. Many people make a point of being in town for the blooming of the cherry blossoms in spring. Others brave the hot, humid weather for the Fourth of July, when a spectacular fireworks show bursts in air over the Washington Monument. It'll give you goose bumps, for sure! Of course, these popular times are also usually crowded times.

Getting Around

Forget driving. Parking is difficult, expensive, and navigation can be confusing. Taxis are best used only when absolutely necessary. They operate on a confusing zone system rather than a straightforward metered fare. They also add on a surcharge for each additional person, making them rather spendy for families.

Use the clean, safe, and efficient Metro subway when possible. Special family passes are available.

For sightseeing, buy a ticket for the Tourmobile, which shuffles you between the monuments, most of which are located on the 2-mile strip stretching from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. A ticket allows you to get on and off all day.

Smithsonian Complex

National Air and Space Museum
Awe-inspiring and definitely worth spending a day to see, this museum covers several city blocks and holds everything from the Wright Brothers' 1903 Flyer to Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis. It's the most popular attraction in D.C. and is said to be the most-visited museum in the entire world!

National Zoo
The giant panda is the big attraction here. The zoo is a nice break from indoor museums and is located in a pleasant residential section. Strollers can be rented.

National Gallery of Art, East Wing
The modern sculptures and paintings are displayed sparingly, allowing you to really take them in. Children enjoy the underground moving walkway between the East and West Wing - where the older art is located. Ask for the free self-guided tour brochure created especially for families.

National Museum of Natural History
In the Discovery Room on the second floor, children can handle various artifacts, including animal pelts and preserved specimens. And don't miss seeing the live inhabitants at the Insect Zoo.

National Aquarium
Though located adjacent to the Washington Monument, this attraction is easy to miss due to its location in the basement of the Department of Commerce Building. Over 1,200 specimens are on display, and a "touch tank" is stocked with hermit crabs, sea urchins and a host of creatures you'll want to get to know.

FBI Tour
Tours are given Monday through Friday. It's possible to make advance reservations through your congressional representative's office. Fascinating for all ages, this tour ends with an agent giving a noisy machine gun demonstration! Note that this building is located right around the corner from Ford's Theater, where Lincoln was shot.

White House
Write to your senator or congressman three or four months in advance to request VIP tickets, which entitle you to a guided tour in a small group. These tours are scheduled Tuesday through Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Should you miss out, tickets are available on the spot from 8 a.m. to noon at the Ellipse located directly behind the White House. These tours are escorted walk-throughs and run from 10 a.m. to noon the same days.