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25 Things to Do with Preschoolers in DC Before They Turn 5

Wegmans Wonderplace. Photo courtesy of National Museum of American History
Wegmans Wonderplace. Photo courtesy of National Museum of American History
4/21/19 - By Christine Mooney

Parents have just a few short years before their little ones head to kindergarten. These years are marked by rapid growth and development, so, while the days are long, moms and dads know the time speeds by, and so they’re more than happy to spend precious quality time with their kiddos. That means heading to play spaces, enjoying kid-friendly museums (many with free admission!), getting outside, and everything else our nation’s capital and surrounding areas have to offer.

For more can't-miss DC family fun, check out 100 Things to Do in DC with Kids Before They Grow Up.

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DC Museums to Visit with Preschoolers

1. National Museum of American History

Explore everyday American life at Wegmans Wonderplace at the National Museum of American History. This exhibit is specially designed for kids aged 6 and under.

2. National Museum of Natural History

Get up close to insects and butterflies at the National Museum of Natural History.

3. National Museum of the American Indian

Introduce them to other cultures with a trip to imagiNATIONS Activity Center at the National Museum of the American Indian.

4. National Air and Space Museum 

Explore the science of flight at the How Things Fly exhibit at the National Air and Space Museum on the Mall.


​Play-Work-Build at the National Building Museum. Photo by Anne McDonough

5. National Building Museum

Head to the National Building Museum for a chance to construct with blocks and other kid-friendly building materials at the ongoing Play, Work, Build exhibit.

6. National Postal Museum

Head on over to the National Postal Museum and teach little ones that snail mail doesn't equal boring.

7. National Gallery of Art

Cultivate an early appreciation of art, and watch your kids’ eyes light up on the moving walkway at the entrance of the new East Building at the National Gallery of Art.

8. National Children's Museum 

9. KID Museum

Have a little engineer on your hands? Head to KID Museum on the weekends for a chance to participate in Open Explore activities. 

10. B&O Railroad Museum

Outdoor Things To Do Near DC with Preschoolers

11. US Botanical Garden

Go au naturel at the children’s garden in the US Botanical Garden.

12.  National Zoo

Check out the animals at the National Zoo. Little ones will love the Kids Farm.

13. Ride a Carousel

14. Clemyjontri Park

For children of all abilities, a trip to Clemyjontri Park is a must.

More Things To Do Near DC with Preschoolers

Sign up for a mommy and me class and learn and play together.