Visiting Washington, D.C. felt like stepping right into the pages of history. As the nation’s capital, it holds a rich tapestry of stories, sacrifices, and achievements that have shaped our country from its very beginning. From towering monuments to priceless documents, and museums filled with treasures from around the globe, D.C. is a place where the past comes alive and where every corner has something to teach. It's more than just a city—it's a living classroom of democracy, freedom, and progress.

For our family, this trip was surreal and unforgettable. Since our kids are homeschooled and online learners, we paused our usual lessons for the week and let Washington, D.C. become our teacher. From walking the halls of power to seeing national treasures up close, this journey was packed with hands-on learning, meaningful moments, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. A highlight? We got to see the President’s motorcade three times—an unexpected and thrilling surprise that added a dose of real-time excitement to our adventure. For those who live here, it might be just another day in the capital, but for these Texans experiencing D.C. for the first time, it was epic! The flashing lights, the speeding procession, the sheer energy of it all—it made everything feel a little more real, a little more monumental. It was one of those pinch-me moments that the kids (and let’s be honest, the adults too) won’t soon forget. . In the blog ahead, we’ll share the highlights of our time in D.C.—what we saw, what we felt, and what we learned together.

Here are 15 fun facts the kids thought were extra cool:

Washington, D.C. is not a state – it’s a special district called the District of Columbia, created to be the nation’s capital. When the United States was founded, the Constitution called for a federal district—a separate area that wasn't part of any state—to serve as the nation's capital. This was to make sure that no single state had too much power by hosting the capital.
1. Washington is named after George Washington, the first President of the United States.
2. Columbia was a poetic name for the United States back in the 1700s, inspired by Christopher Columbus. So "District of Columbia" literally means "Federal District of the United States."
3. So, Washington, D.C. = the city of Washington in the District of Columbia.
The White House has been the official home of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800.
Washington Monument is the world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk – it stands at 555 feet tall!
The city’s layout was designed by a French engineer named Pierre Charles L’Enfant.
Smithsonian museums are all free to visit! There are 17 in D.C. alone, including the Natural History and Air & Space Museums.
The U.S. Capitol Building is where Congress meets to make the country’s laws—and it has a huge dome that can be seen from all over the city.
The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world with over 170 million items!
Cherry blossoms bloom every spring and were a gift from Japan in 1912 as a symbol of friendship.
No skyscrapers allowed—D.C. has height restrictions on buildings so that no structure is taller than the Capitol.
You can ride the Metrorail, the city’s subway system, which helps millions of people get around each year.
There’s a National Zoo in D.C. that’s also part of the Smithsonian—home to giant pandas, elephants, lions, and more!
You can find the original copies of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights at the National Archives.
The Lincoln Memorial has 36 columns—one for each state in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death in 1865.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is carved from granite and shows him emerging from a “stone of hope,” taken from one of his famous speeches.

Itinerary

Day 1:

10:30am timed ticket: The Peoples House
12:30pm timed ticket: Washington Monument
We intended to walk the Basin and National Mall but Food Poisoning got the best of me (and for the next 36+ hours)

Day 2: RAINING & still puny but once Drew was off from work, he had time to explore with kids

National Museum of American History

Day 3:

With a big portion being under construction, Cherry Bloosoms gone and tired little people feet, we skipped Tidal Basin walk and hit the memorials near National Mall
WW2 Memorial
National Mall Walk & Monuments:

Lincoln Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Reflecting Pool

Lunch at Sweet Home Cafe at African American Museum
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
National Archives
7:15-10pm Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

Day 4:

National Zoo for pandas
Arlington National Cemetery/ Arlington National Cemetery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Day 5:

WH Visitor Center
11am White House Tour
Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill
US Capitol Tour by Congressman Brandon Gill’s office (private tour)
Library of Congress
Supreme Court- Outisde picture
Planned to visit Postal Museum but it started raining & was getting later
Bribery dessert at Milk & Honey, College Park

Day 6:

Visit Hydrocephalus Association headquarters in Bethesada, MD
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (Air & Space Museum, Chantilly, VA)

Breaking it down

The People’s House

One of our family favorites from the trip was The People’s House: A White House Experience! 🇺🇸 Created by the White House Historical Association and located just one block from the White House, this cutting-edge educational museum opened in September 2024 and completely blew us away. Spread across three floors and 33,000 square feet, the interactive exhibits bring the White House’s rich history to life in the most engaging way. The kids especially loved the full-scale replica of the Oval Office—Hawkins had a blast pretending to be president—and the immersive house exhibit filled with different rooms to explore, digitally open cabinets, learn of Presidential heirlooms, and fun surprises around every corner. From the large-scale White House model to the recreated Rose Garden, every detail made history feel exciting and real for all of us!

Washington Monument

We felt so lucky to score tickets to the top of the Washington Monument—seriously, they're not easy to come by! I happened to check the Group Tickets section randomly about two weeks before our trip and miraculously snagged the only five tickets available. Riding the elevator all the way to the top and stepping into the observation windows was such a surreal experience. The views of the National Mall, the Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial were absolutely breathtaking—and getting to share that moment with the kids made it even more special.

A few fun facts we learned:

The Washington Monument stands 555 feet tall, making it the world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk.
It was completed in 1884 after decades of construction delays, including a long pause during the Civil War.
The inside of the monument features commemorative stones donated by states, cities, and even foreign countries.
And get this—the aluminum capstone at the top was once the largest piece of aluminum in the world! It was such a cool blend of history, engineering, and epic views.

National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History was a hit for our resident history buffs, Drew and Hawkins. While a lot of the exhibits were a little over Emmie and Foster’s heads, they still had fun exploring the big spaces and catching glimpses of cool artifacts. Meanwhile, Drew and Hawkins could have spent all day there! From the original Star-Spangled Banner that inspired the national anthem, to Lincoln’s iconic top hat and Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, the museum is packed with treasures that tell the story of America’s past.

Some cool facts: The museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and opened in 1964. It houses over 1.8 million objects, spanning everything from politics and pop culture to science and technology. One of the most popular exhibits is the First Ladies' Inaugural Gown Collection, which showcases the evolution of fashion and history in one beautiful space. Even though some parts went over the twins’ heads, the museum sparked great conversations and curiosity—which is always a win in our book!

National Mall & Monuments

Walking the National Mall and visiting its iconic monuments was a surreal and humbling experience—there’s just something powerful about standing in the shadow of structures built to honor the people and ideals that shaped our nation. We walked miles taking it all in, surrounded by history and purpose at every turn. Seeing the monuments to Washington, Jefferson, and Lincoln in person was a reminder of the foundations of our democracy, and it gave us the chance to reflect and show our respect as a family.

The Lincoln Memorial, with its grand steps and towering statue, felt especially moving. It’s modeled after a Greek temple, with 36 columns representing the states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death. Inside, Lincoln’s statue stands 19 feet tall, with the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address carved into the walls. Standing there with the kids, we talked about the weight of Lincoln’s leadership during one of the most difficult times in U.S. history and the legacy of unity and equality he worked toward.

The Jefferson Memorial was another favorite. The circular, domed structure overlooks the Tidal Basin and honors Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. Inside, a bronze statue of Jefferson stands surrounded by inscriptions of his most influential words, a fitting tribute to his enduring role in shaping the country’s ideals.

And of course, the Washington Monument—which we got to experience from both the ground and the top—anchors the whole Mall with its stunning simplicity and significance. All together, the walk between these monuments wasn’t just scenic; it was deeply meaningful. We left with tired feet but full hearts, grateful for the opportunity to experience this living timeline of American history with our kids.

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, stretching over 2,000 feet between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, serves as a powerful visual and symbolic link between two of America’s most iconic tributes to leadership and unity. More than just a beautiful water feature, the pool holds deep historical significance—most notably as the site where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 March on Washington. As we stood at its edge, the stillness of the water created a moment of calm and reflection, perfectly framing the massive tribute to Lincoln’s legacy and reminding us of the nation’s ongoing pursuit of justice and equality.

The reflecting pools on the National Mall are intentionally designed to elevate the symbolism of the monuments they accompany. They invite visitors into a space of quiet contemplation and reverence, allowing the gravity of the history they represent to truly sink in. As we walked along the Mall, each pool we encountered seemed to deepen the emotional weight of the memorials nearby, offering us a place to pause, connect, and remember.

The Korean War Veterans Memorial is a powerful and somber tribute to those who served in the Korean War. Nineteen stainless steel soldier statues stand in formation, representing a squad on patrol, their expressions and stances capturing the tension and sacrifice of war. A reflective black granite wall bears images of support personnel and the haunting inscription: “Freedom Is Not Free.” Visiting this memorial is a moving experience that honors courage, service, and remembrance.

World War II Memorial

Visiting the World War II Memorial was an especially meaningful moment for me, as it’s a place deeply connected to someone very dear to my heart. The large oval fountain and pool serve as a centerpiece for remembering the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation, with the 56 granite pillars surrounding the fountain representing the unity of the U.S. states and territories during the war. The gentle flow of water brings serenity to the space, while also honoring the passage of time and the lives lost. For our family, this space held personal weight, especially thinking of my Papa, who passed away less than a year ago at 99 years old. Before he passed, he was the oldest living WWII veteran in Southern Oklahoma. Standing there, surrounded by such powerful symbols of sacrifice and service, brought his memory to the forefront. We found the Louisiana pillar, where he signed up for the Marines, and it felt like such a fitting tribute to a man who was not only a hero in the war but also a strong, steady pillar of our family.

Here are 5 meaningful WWII and WWII Memorial facts we learned:

World War II was the deadliest conflict in human history, involving over 30 countries and resulting in an estimated 70–85 million deaths worldwide.
The World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. was dedicated in 2004 to honor the 16 million Americans who served, including the more than 400,000 who gave their lives.
The memorial features 56 granite pillars representing the U.S. states and territories at the time of the war, symbolizing unity and the nationwide effort.
The Freedom Wall at the memorial holds 4,048 gold stars, each representing 100 American lives lost during WWII.
The memorial sits between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, emphasizing the link between past leadership, sacrifice, and American ideals.

Sweet Home Cafe

Sweet Home Café at the National Museum of African American History and Culture was an unforgettable dining experience. The menu, rich in history and flavor, takes you on a culinary journey through African American culture. We loved the cornbread, mac and cheese, sweet potatoes, and fried chicken—all bursting with authentic, comforting flavors. Each dish felt like a warm embrace, and it was the perfect complement to our exploration of such a meaningful museum. If you’re ever in D.C., this café is a must-visit for both the food and the cultural experience!

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History was a highlight of our trip, offering a captivating journey through the wonders of our planet. From the towering dinosaur fossils in the Hall of Dinosaurs to the sparkling Hope Diamond, there’s something for everyone. We were particularly amazed by the 45-foot-long blue whale model hanging from the ceiling in the Sant Ocean Hall and the 12,000-year-old human skeletons in the Hall of Human Origins. The museum's incredible collection of over 145 million specimens provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of life on Earth, and it's an experience that left us with a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

National Archives

Visiting the National Archives was an awe-inspiring experience for our family, especially since it was our first time seeing some of the most important documents in American history in person—the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights. Standing in the Rotunda and gazing at these fragile, original manuscripts, we couldn’t help but wonder: "Do they really have secret drop vaults in case of a threat or attack?" or "Are these the real documents? What’s the security like here?" While movies have fueled many of these thoughts, standing before the actual documents, it was hard not to feel the weight of history in the air.

The National Archives, home to over 13 billion records, houses these treasures in a state-of-the-art climate-controlled environment. The U.S. Constitution, which was signed in 1787, is the cornerstone of American law and government. The Declaration of Independence, drafted in 1776, set forth the 13 American colonies' decision to separate from Great Britain, and its bold statement of "unalienable Rights" became the foundation for American democracy. The Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791, ensures the individual freedoms we cherish today, with the first ten amendments to the Constitution securing fundamental rights like free speech and religion. Seeing these in person was a surreal moment, and it made us all reflect on the incredible vision of our Founding Fathers and the lasting impact of their work.

Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

The Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley offers a captivating 2.5-hour journey through the city's most iconic landmarks, beautifully illuminated under the night sky. Departing from either Union Station or the Washington Welcome Center, the tour provides a unique perspective on the nation's capital. Key stops include the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Additionally, the tour passes by notable sites such as the U.S. Capitol, White House, Jefferson Memorial, and the Washington Monument. Throughout the ride, knowledgeable guides share engaging stories and historical anecdotes, enhancing the experience with insights into the city's rich past.

National Zoo

Visiting the National Zoo was such a fun and memorable part of our D.C. adventure! I’ll admit I was a little nervous beforehand—everything I read said the pandas are most active early in the morning and that long lines are typical. But we lucked out! By the time we made it through traffic and walked to the panda exhibit, it was already 11 a.m.—and yet we walked right up and were treated to a show! The pandas were incredibly active, running, playing, and chomping down on endless bamboo. It was mesmerizing to watch. We also got to see the orangutan using the O-Line—an overhead network of wires that lets them move freely between buildings. Seeing one climb high above us in the open air was absolutely wild and so cool to witness in person!

Arlington Cementary

Our visit to Arlington National Cemetery was powerful and sobering—a place where the weight of history and sacrifice is deeply felt. With over 400,000 individuals buried there, the cemetery serves as the final resting place for veterans from every U.S. conflict, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Riding the trolley through the cemetery gave us a meaningful overview and helped us reach some of the most famous stops, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where we witnessed the impeccably precise Changing of the Guard ceremony. We also visited the gravesites of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, marked by the eternal flame. But what truly took our breath away were the thousands upon thousands of white headstones, perfectly aligned across the rolling hills. It’s one thing to know about the sacrifices made for our country, but it’s another to see them represented in such a visual, solemn way—it leaves an impression that stays with you.

One of our favorite moments was at Arlington House, once the home of Robert E. Lee and perched on a hilltop with stunning views of D.C. There, the kids completed their Junior Ranger books and took the pledge—earning another badge and a deeper appreciation for our nation’s history. The house itself tells a fascinating story about Lee, the Civil War, and how the land became a place to honor fallen soldiers. Walking through its rooms and reading the exhibits helped connect so many pieces of what we’ve been learning during our D.C. trip. Arlington is more than a cemetery—it’s a living tribute, a classroom without walls, and a reminder of the courage and cost that built the freedoms we enjoy.

White House Tour

Getting the chance to tour the White House was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience—one that left all of us a little awestruck. It felt surreal to walk through the same halls that presidents, world leaders, and historic figures have walked for centuries. You enter through the East Wing and follow a self-guided path through several public rooms on the State Floor, including the East Room, Green Room, Blue Room, Red Room, and the State Dining Room. While you don’t go upstairs to the family residence, just being inside the building that serves as both the home and workplace of the President of the United States is unforgettable.

We were all amazed by the ornate decor, the historic paintings and artifacts, and the grandeur of each room—especially knowing that countless monumental decisions have been made within those walls. Seeing the Secret Service stationed so casually, and noticing the intense security measures, reminded us how protected and important this space is. It’s not just a museum or a historical landmark—it’s still a fully functioning seat of executive power. The kids were blown away, and it gave them a whole new perspective on American history. As they put it, “Now we can say we walked around the White House”—a memory they’ll carry with them forever.

Tours are free but must be requested well in advance through a Member of Congress, and security is tight—you go through multiple checkpoints before stepping foot inside. Photos are now allowed in most areas, which was a bonus! The White House is one of the most iconic and recognizable buildings in the world, and to actually be inside it, not just looking at it from behind a gate, was nothing short of incredible.

US Capitol

Our visit to the U.S. Capitol was an unforgettable highlight of our time in Washington, D.C.—made even more special thanks to a private tour arranged through Congressman Brandon Gill’s office. We were lucky enough to venture down halls and into rooms that standard tours don’t typically access, getting a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse at where American history is continuously being made. The absolute highlight was stepping onto the House Chamber floor—where Presidents deliver the State of the Union, laws are debated and passed, and some of the country’s most defining decisions have occurred. It felt surreal to stand in the very space we’ve so often seen on television (which, surprisingly, looks much smaller in person!). One fascinating detail we noticed was a bullet hole in the ceiling, a sobering reminder of the 1954 attack by Puerto Rican nationalists that adds even more depth to the experience.

For most visitors, Capitol tours begin at the Capitol Visitor Center, located underground on the east side of the building. Standard 45-minute tours are led by professional guides and cover historic spaces like the Crypt, the Rotunda, and Statuary Hall. If you want to visit the House or Senate galleries, you’ll need to request passes from your Member of Congress ahead of time. While at the Visitor Center, you can also explore the Exhibition Hall, grab a snack, or shop for souvenirs. If you're planning a visit, reservations are highly recommended (especially during busy seasons), but walk-ins are welcome if you arrive early in the day—no later than 2:30 p.m.

The star marking the center of Washington, D.C. is located in the Capitol’s Crypt, directly beneath the Rotunda. This bronze compass rose, part of Pierre L’Enfant’s original city design, symbolizes the heart of the nation’s capital—though today it’s more symbolic than functional.

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress was one of the most awe-inspiring buildings we visited in D.C.—not just for its size or collection, but for the stunning architecture, art, and intricate detail around every corner. From the moment we stepped into the Thomas Jefferson Building, we were surrounded by grand marble staircases, colorful ceilings, mosaics, and murals that told the story of knowledge, history, and the pursuit of learning. It truly felt like stepping into a palace dedicated to books and ideas.

As the largest library in the world, the Library of Congress holds over 170 million items, including books, maps, photographs, films, and more. We marveled at the Main Reading Room from the overlook, imagining what it must be like to sit among scholars and researchers. Knowing that Thomas Jefferson donated his personal collection to help rebuild the library after it was burned in 1814 made the visit even more meaningful. This place isn't just a library—it's a beautiful, living tribute to the power of knowledge and the importance of preserving it for generations to come.

Hydrocephalus Association

While we were in the D.C. area, we made a special stop in Bethesda, Maryland, to visit the Hydrocephalus Association—an organization that holds deep personal meaning for our family. The Hydrocephalus Association is the leading nonprofit in the U.S. dedicated to hydrocephalus research, advocacy, and support for those living with the condition. They provide resources, community, and push for advancements in treatment and awareness.

Our connection to hydrocephalus is through Hawkins, who was diagnosed at just 3 months old. If you don’t know his story, he’s been through a lot. He’s had three brain surgeries, starting with his initial shunt placement, then another for shunt draining, and finally a revision. Thankfully, since his last surgery in March 2020, he’s had no complications and has continued to thrive with the same shunt. We don’t take that for granted—especially knowing that hydrocephalus is a lifelong condition with no cure, and shunt failures or complications are common.

Hydrocephalus affects over 1 million Americans, and it occurs when there’s an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which can cause increased pressure and damage. It can affect people of all ages, but it’s the most common reason for brain surgery in children. Visiting the association reminded us of how far we’ve come in Hawkins’ journey and how important continued research and support is for families like ours.

NBC sharing Hawkins’ story during his most recent brain surgeries (Feb & March 2020)

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

We opted to skip the National Air and Space Museum on the National Mall since much of it is under construction and instead made the drive out to the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center near Dulles—and it did not disappoint. The center is part of the Smithsonian Institution and is free to enter (though there’s a $15 parking fee), and it houses an absolutely jaw-dropping collection of aircraft and spacecraft in massive hangar-style exhibits.

The highlight for all of us was seeing the Space Shuttle Discovery up close—an awe-inspiring moment standing next to a vehicle that’s literally traveled to space and back 39 times. The museum also features the SR-71 Blackbird, the Enola Gay, and a Concorde, among other legendary aircraft. There’s something surreal about walking beneath the wings of machines that have shaped history, pushed boundaries, and in many ways, changed the world. Truly a must-see if you're in the area!

Noteworthy Cafeterias per word of mouth

US Capitol
USDA
Native American
African American

Transportation & Parking

During our time in the D.C. area, we took advantage of both the Metro system and SpotHero parking, and we were really glad to have both options! The Metro was super convenient for days when we wanted to avoid the hassle of traffic or finding parking downtown. It’s clean, reliable, and pretty easy to navigate once you get the hang of the color-coded lines. The kids thought riding the train was part of the adventure, and it dropped us off close to many of the big attractions on the National Mall.

On days we chose to drive into the city, SpotHero was a total lifesaver. It's an app that lets you reserve parking in advance, and we were able to find decent prices and guarantee a spot without circling blocks. It gave us the flexibility to drive when we needed to but without the usual stress of D.C. parking. Between the Metro and SpotHero, we were able to explore comfortably and on our own terms—win-win!

Where we stayed

Cherry Hill RV Park is one of our absolute favorite RV parks—it’s clean, safe, and incredibly well-maintained. The amenities are top-notch, including multiple pools, a splash pad, playgrounds, and a café with surprisingly good food. We love how close it is to Washington, D.C., with a super convenient shuttle service and helpful staff that make sightseeing easy. The family-friendly atmosphere and peaceful setting make it a perfect base after a busy day of adventures. Every time we stay here, it feels like a little retreat with big-city access.

Places we missed this trip

Bureau of Printing and Engraving
Holocaust Museum
Bible Museum
Postal Museum
US National Arboretum
Planet Word
Ford’s Theater National Historic Site
Olde Post Office Tower

Our week in Washington, D.C., has been nothing short of incredible—a time of learning, reflection, and awe. From standing in the shadow of towering monuments to walking through hallowed halls where history was made, we’ve experienced the rich tapestry of our nation’s past in a way no textbook could convey. It’s been a surreal journey, from witnessing the President’s motorcade to exploring the stories behind the Founding Fathers and the sacrifices made by those who have served our country. Taking a break from traditional schooling to immerse ourselves in the living history of D.C. has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our family. We leave with full hearts, a deeper understanding of our nation’s history, and memories we’ll carry with us for a lifetime.

Washington DC