Fun Free Activities for Kids in January 2024: 27 Free Things To Do in DC with Kids

Young kids can enjoy free weekly play dates at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Photo by Kelly Verdeck, via Flickr. (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Young kids can enjoy free weekly play dates at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Photo by Kelly Verdeck, via Flickr. (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
12/29/23 - By Jennifer Swope

Everyone knows Washington, DC has so many free offerings, but did you know the depth of the free activities available? They extend well beyond the National Mall.

The holidays are over, and we know you might not want to spend one more dollar. The good news is that we live in an area rich in free museums, activities, and events. Many of those free museums have weekly storytimes and activity centers catered towards children.

There are also free theater productions this month, including the Wheaton Family Theatre Series and Saturday Morning Live! at the National Theatre. GALA Theatre is hosting a Three Kings Day celebration, too. And there are plenty of First Day Hikes and MLK Day events.

Check out our Guide to Free Things To Do in DC with Kids for more free family fun. Plus, we are always adding free events to our events calendar.

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Places featured in this article:


Smithsonian Natural History Museum

National Museum of African American History & Culture

The R.I.S.E Center to Anacostia Park

National Museum of the American Indian National Mall

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden