featured events
all events
national STEM day
On November 8, we’re opening our doors for a free day of discovery brought to you by Topsoe.
all exhibits
recommended ages: all ages
the first five: resources for parents on early developmental milestones
A four-part resource series designed in collaboration with DC Public Schools’ Early Stages, where early learning experts share information on key childhood development milestones for children ages 0 to 5, offering parents a chance to learn, ask questions, and meet one another.
little dreamersrecommended ages: 0-5
tinker tots
Weekly on Thursdays. Familiar programs from our Tinkering Corner are scaled down to meet the needs of early learners.
little dreamersrecommended ages: 0-3
curiosity + cocktails 2025
Jump into our world of wonder and join us for Curiosity + Cocktails—a special after-hours event that not only invites you to explore the Museum but also invites you to be a kid again.
hours
We are open! DC's favorite place to play remains operational during standard hours.
monday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
tuesday: closed
wednesday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
thursday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
friday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
saturday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
sunday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
location
National Children's Museum is located at:
woodrow wilson plaza
1300 pennsylvania ave nw
washington, dc 20004
admission
adults: $18.95 per person
children 1 and older: $18.95 per person
children under 1: free
members: free
featured exhibits
explore exhibits
visiting exhibit hall
Explore the current and upcoming exhibits traveling to our Visiting Exhibit Hall:
thomas & friends: explore the rails!
current: september 20 - january 4, 2026
Step onto the Island of Sodor and join the team of Thomas & Friends in this interactive exhibit.
current: september 20 - january 4, 2026
the pigeon comes to washington dc: a mo willems exhibit
upcoming: january 27 - may 10, 2026
Enter into the imagination, whimsy, and humor of Mo Willems with friends Elephant, Piggie, Knuffle Bunny, and The Pigeon, the wily city bird best known for his antics in Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!
upcoming: january 27 - may 10, 2026
membership
Enjoy benefits like unlimited admission to the Museum, exclusive members-only hours and events, exhibit previews, and more!
50 years of play
learn moreIn 2024, we commemorated our 50th Anniversary. You can keep the celebration going with the following special initiatives and exhibits that honor the legacy of the Museum.
the stories project
This initiative brings together memories from our community and mementos from our institutional records to celebrate and preserve our legacy.
placita mágica
A special 50th anniversary exhibit that pays homage to the Capital Children’s Museum.
floor 1recommended ages: 3-12
dreamers fund
Be a part of the Museum's next 50 years by giving to the Dreamers Fund. Every gift makes a difference and has an impact on allowing future generations access to hands-on learning though play!
Our family absolutely loves playing at National Children's Museum!
Our children are almost 2.5 years apart but both of them find plenty of fun and there is always something new for them to explore. It's a wonderful mix of physical activity, learning, arts & crafts, and tech.
angie c
This museum has been a sanity saver for our family.
We bought a membership and often go multiple times a week. The staff are truly fantastic—they know our daughter by name.
mary ellen w.
My 4-year-old absolutely loves this place!
He would go everyday if we let him.
kim b.
ways to play
birthday parties
Make your child’s dream come true! Plan their next birthday party at National Children’s Museum for a day full of fun for everyone.
field trips
Playful STEAM experiences that spark curiosity and develop 21st-century skills. Choose between school year and summer field trips.
groups
Gather your group for an unforgettable experience, making it easier than ever to explore and learn together! Enjoy a 10% discount on Museum admission.
