Travel to Washington:

With a mix of historical and educational destinations all within a small area, Washington, D.C., offers a wonderful travel experience for families. One of the additional perks of family travel to Washington is that many of the museums, monuments and attractions are open to the public without an admission charge. This can result in significant savings for large families or those on a budget. There are also some interesting sites outside the traditional tourist destinations.
Family-Friendly Hotel in Washington
The Hotel Harrington is an inexpensive family hotel in the heart of the city, within easy walking distance to major attractions. Although you'll have to deal with a few less amenities, such as a pool or gym, the hotel offers huge family rooms and suites at low prices. Before you set out each morning, check out the hotel restaurant's hot breakfast buffet, which costs less than many of the other area eateries. Hotel Harrington 436 11th St. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20004 202-628-8140
Getting Around in Washington
Old Town Trolley Tours operates a "hop on/hop off" trolley service that offers a great way to get around the city. It's a fun, inexpensive way to see the sites, and kids love riding the old-fashioned trolley cars. The trolley drivers also offer sightseeing narratives, each adding their own personal twist or style. Old Town Trolley Tours Corner of 10th & E St. N.W. Washington, D.C. 202-832-9800
Family Dining
Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant offers a great selection of micro-brew beers and an extensive menu for all ages. Although it can get a bit crowded and noisy, it's still an inviting place to eat. If you want to escape some of the noise, ask for a table in the dining room rather than a booth or high-top table in the bar area. Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant 900 F St. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20004 202-783-5454
International Spy Museum
The exhibits are full of spy gear, movie props and information about covert activity during the Cold War, including a primer on how to spot "dead drop" locations used by spies to exchange information. There is even a car from a James Bond movie and great exhibits on WWII intelligence methods. The museum offers several special experiences for kids, including spy slumber parties and spy-themed day camps. International Spy Museum 800 F St. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20004 202-393-7798
The Old Post Office Building
The Old Post Office Building doesn't sound too exciting, but it offers great architecture and stunning views of the city. There is a food court on the main level and an elevator that transports you to the top of the bell tower. Make a point of visiting on Thursday evenings when the Washington Ringing Society practices ringing the bells. Take the Orange Loop on the Old Town Trolley for easy access. The Old Post Office Building 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. S.W. Washington, D.C. 20004 202-289-4224
Washington National Cathedral
Washington National Cathedral is the sixth largest cathedral in the world and the second largest in America. Climb the stairs or take the elevator to the top of the spires for panoramic views of the surrounding city. Guided tours offer access into the underground crypt and help keep kids interested with stories such as why there is a grotesque in the image of Darth Vader. If you're using the Old Town Trolley, the cathedral is on the Green Loop. Washington National Cathedral 3101 Wisconsin Ave. N.W. Washington, D.C. 202-537-6200 nationalcathedral.org

References & Resources
Official Tourism Website of Washington, D.C.
About the Author
Jeff O'Kelley has been a freelance writer and photographer for 10 years. His work, which is primarily focused on food, travel and entertainment, has graced websites and publications such as CNN, TripAdvisor and "Go Far" magazine. He holds associate's degrees in art and telecommunications from St. Petersburg College in Florida.