Day Trips from Washington DC
← All Washington DC day tripsDay Trips from Washington DC: Family Activities & Kid-Friendly Fun
The best family-friendly activities and kid-approved destinations within driving distance of Washington DC, DC. Zoos, amusement parks, interactive museums, and outdoor fun the whole family will enjoy. Drive times, ratings, and budget estimates included.
12 family activities near Washington DC
Penguin Coast
Baltimore, MD 21211
Just 1 hr 8 min from Washington DC, rated 4.8 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
National Aquarium
Baltimore, MD 21202
Just 58 min from Washington DC, rated 4.6 stars by 33,235 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Adventure Aquarium
Camden, NJ 08103
Just 2 hrs 33 min from Washington DC, rated 4.6 stars by 19,196 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Plumpton Park Zoo
1416 Telegraph Rd, Rising Sun
Just 1 hr 43 min from Washington DC, rated 4.5 stars by 2,406 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Glen Echo Park Aquarium
Glen Echo, MD 20812
Just 20 min from Washington DC, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Dutch Wonderland® Family Amusement Park
Lancaster, PA 17602
Just 2 hrs 18 min from Washington DC, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Trimper Rides of Ocean City
Ocean City, MD 21842
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Washington DC, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Off Limitz Adventure Park
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Just 39 min from Washington DC, rated 4.3 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
The Funplex
Mt Laurel Township, NJ 08054
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Washington DC, rated 4.3 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Dinosaur Land
White Post, VA 22663
Just 1 hr 21 min from Washington DC, rated 4.3 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Adventure Park USA
Monrovia, MD 21770
Just 60 min from Washington DC, rated 4.1 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Super, Awesome & Amazing
Springfield, VA 22151
Just 25 min from Washington DC, rated 4.0 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Activities Day Trips from Washington DC
What are the best family activities near Washington DC, DC?
The best family activities near Washington DC include zoos, children's museums, amusement parks, state parks with easy trails, and interactive science centers. Check the cards above for top-rated spots with real drive times.
What are cheap things to do with kids near Washington DC?
State parks, nature preserves, and many community attractions near Washington DC are free or under $15 per person. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. Check the budget estimates on each card above.
Are there indoor family activities near Washington DC for rainy days?
Yes. Children's museums, aquariums, indoor water parks, and science centers near Washington DC are all great rainy-day options. Look for "Family" tagged destinations above.
How far should I drive for a family day trip from Washington DC?
For families with young kids, 1-2 hours is the sweet spot. Longer drives (2-3 hours) work well with older kids and are worth it for standout destinations like major zoos or amusement parks.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me