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Location
Visitor tip
Start with the Dream Machine exhibit - it's consistently mentioned as a visitor favorite and highly engaging for keeping kids entertained throughout the visit.
Visitor tip
Plan your visit around special exhibits like 'The Pigeon Comes to Washington DC' (Jan-May 2026) or 'Curious George' (May-Sept 2026) to maximize the educational value and variety of hands-on activities available.
About National Children's Museum
Creative museum for arts, science & more. Reimagined kids' museum with exhibits & hands-on programs for science, technology, arts & more.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Children's Museum
- Highlights
- Dream Machine three-story climber, interactive STEAM exhibits, weather simulation, art activities
- Admission
- $18.95 adults and kids (1+), free under 1, free for members
- Hours
- Monday-Saturday 9:30am-4:30pm, Sunday 9:30am-4:30pm, closed Tuesdays
What visitors say
We had such a great time at the National Children’s Museum in DC! There were so many different activities for the kids to explore, and it kept both of my boys engaged the whole time. Their favorite part was the Dream Machine, it was…
3 stars for overall. But I’ll give this a 4 star for kids experience. because my kids were entertained for hours. The place is cool. But it’s actually small for the price you pay to get in. This is not a cheap experience by any means.…
The National Museum in Washington, D.C. is truly a dream destination for kids of all ages. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere is vibrant, colorful, and incredibly clean, setting the perfect stage for learning and fun. What…
From 1,599 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- The Dream Machine is a three-story climbing structure and slide that serves as a flagship attraction, noted as a major highlight by visitors
- The museum features a dedicated Placita Mágica exhibit created for the museum's 50th anniversary celebration
- The museum offers specialized exhibit areas for infants and toddlers called 'Little Dreamers' with cloud and flight-themed design, indicating intentional programming for the youngest visitors
Other Children's Museums in Washington
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