This post wraps up our Washington DC week. After the Resource Guide and Favorite Family Activities, practical strategies are necessary to maximize time in the Capitol without running your kids into the ground. I remember times growing up when the marathon days at the Smithsonian became boring—it was enough to keep me away from museums for a long while.

That’s not the effect we’re going for. So how do you visit multiple DC sights, but keep the family engaged?

Urban destinations are more enjoyable when cooler fall weather arrives and you can walk around comfortably for hours. One of our favorite autumn trips for kids at any age and stage is to visit Washington DC. With wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation, the city is easy to get around, clean, and there is always something interesting to do and learn for everyone.

We love to enrich our kid’s education by visiting the various museums around the city.

We just added the Lorien Hotel and Spa in Alexandria, Virginia to the Ciao Bambino portfolio. This hotel makes a great home-base for exploring the Washington DC area.

Planning a summer trip to Washington DC? Take advantage of the Smithsonian’s purpose to “diffuse knowledge.” The full and half-day (3hr) summer camps …