On the Map: A Kids’ Guide to Washington D.C.
Thinking about a family vacation to Washington D. C.? We asked siblings Eva (age 13), Sam (age 10), and Sarah (age 7) from Houston, Texas, to share a bit about their recent trip to our nation’s capital. Check out what they have to say about their time in Washington D. C. and a few of their favorite photos to help you think through a future family trip to the capital.
When did you go to Washington D. C.?
Eva: We went with our grandparents in July, and it was very hot! The trip was a Christmas gift. On Christmas morning (2018), our grandparents gave each of us a small rolling suitcase as a gift and inside of each was a different print out of something we would get to visit on the trip, like the White House, the Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial. So on Christmas morning, they said, “Surprise! We are taking you to Washington D. C. next summer!” I was very excited.
Sarah: Me, too! I was really excited!
How long were in you D. C.? Was that enough time, or did you wish you could stay longer?
Eva: We were in D.C. for five days, and we were exhausted from all the walking. So five days was just about right.
Sam: I was ready to come home!
Sarah: I wished I had more time to explore.
What were you most looking forward to about D. C.?
Eva: I had learned about the White House in school, and I was most looking forward to seeing it in person.
Sam: The White House.
Sarah: The White House.
What were your three favorite places to visit?
Eva: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the Museum of the Bible, and the Capitol.
Sam: I really liked the Jefferson Memorial because it was quiet and peaceful and not very crowded. I also liked the Bible Museum.
Sarah: I liked the National Museum of American History because it was fun to see the ruby slippers and the first American flag. I also loved touring the Capitol and the Bible Museum.
Where were your favorite places to eat?
Eva: We ate breakfast at our hotel every day, and one night we had dinner at a fancy Italian place!
Sam: Hard Rock Cafe. I got the onion rings.
Sarah: Hard Rock Cafe. I got the mac ‘n cheese!
If you could go back to Washington D. C., what would you like to do that you didn’t get to do on this trip?
Eva: The Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Sarah: I would go back to the Capitol.
If you’ve been to Washington D. C., what are some of your favorite places to visit and things to do? Share in the comments below!