Family Trip to our Nation’s Capital

We just spent an incredible weekend in our Nation’s Capital last October and it was the PERFECT place to take our kids as we continue our quest to world school.  Obviously, the history of our nation and discussing the branches of government was an huge part of our conversations, but we also enjoyed learning from the various free museums in D.C. 

If you are planning a trip to Washington, D.C., you won’t want to miss out on any of these free museums, especially within the Smithsonian Institution. Some of the most popular ones include the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of the American Indian, and the National Gallery of Art. You can also visit the National Portrait Gallery, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the National Postal Museum, etc.

While not museums, the city's monuments and memorials are also free to visit including: the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial. These museums and landmarks offer a fantastic and educational way to explore the history, culture, and art of the United States, all at no cost.  

Accommodations:

 Our family stayed at the Westin Washington DC Downtown which truly enhances our whole experience; we just love Marriott brand hotels! From the moment we walked into the newly renovated lobby, we were greeted by an inviting atmosphere, blending modern design with stylish décor. The space felt warm and welcoming, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. I especially loved “The Well,” a water refill station  that even offered soda water. 

Our suite was everything a family could ask for—spacious and thoughtfully designed. It featured a comfortable living area, a luxurious king-size bedroom, and an adjoining room for the kids with two queen beds. One of my favorite perks of having connecting rooms? Two bathrooms! This made getting ready in the mornings so much easier for our family. We were also welcomed with thoughtful gifts from the hotel, a small touch that made us feel so special and appreciated.  

The hotel’s newly updated gym was another standout feature. With state-of-the-art equipment and a bright, inviting space, it was the perfect spot to squeeze in a workout. 

Food was a highlight of our stay, too. Breakfast at "Root and Vine" was a treat, featuring fresh pastries, eggs, fruit, and—my personal favorite—avocado toast. We also enjoyed a delicious dinner there, which rounded out our experience beautifully.  

Everything about our stay at the Westin Washington DC Downtown was memorable. From the stylish, family-friendly accommodations to the thoughtful amenities and delicious dining options, this hotel truly exceeded our expectations. If you’re planning a trip to DC, I can’t recommend it enough! We’ll definitely be back.