Washington, DC with a Toddler While Pregnant: Relaxing Things to Do + Where to Stay
- D Siesta House
- 4 minutes ago
- 5 min read
By D Siesta House www.dsiesta.com
If you’re planning a family vacation in Washington, DC with a toddler—and maybe even expecting baby #2—you’re in the right place.
We spent four months living in DC while I was in my first and second trimester, navigating pregnancy with a toddler. And you know what? It was one of the most low-stress, toddler-friendly travel experiences we’ve had. Yes, really!
We arrived just in time for Cherry Blossom season, and it was breathtaking. Petals floated down like snowflakes, and we took daily walks along the Tidal Basin surrounded by soft pink blooms and quiet water views. Even after the blossoms faded, spring in DC was still magical—lush green parks, blooming gardens, and sunny museum days became part of our slow, peaceful routine.
With free museums, beautiful green spaces, and easy public transportation, DC gave us a calm, flexible rhythm that worked for our whole family — bump included.
Here’s everything we did, loved, and would recommend if you’re planning a low-stress family trip to DC with a baby, toddler, or while pregnant.
Here’s what made our time in DC magical, even with a growing bump and a wiggly toddler:
👣 Where to Go in Washington, DC with a Toddler
🌿 National Mall
The National Mall isn’t just for monuments and museums — it became our everyday sanctuary. We’d walk in the early morning before the crowds, soaking in the peacefulness, watching squirrels, and letting our toddler stretch his legs. Sometimes we would bring a bubble maker and others we would bring a ball to play around with.
Open 24/7
Restrooms are located at several major museums and monuments
🧸 Wegmans Wonderplace at the National Museum of American History
Hands down, one of the best indoor toddler play spaces in DC. It’s interactive, safe, and designed for children under 6. Bonus: I could sit comfortably and rest while my toddler played for over an hour.
🕘 Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily
💰 Cost: Free
🚼 Family bathrooms and elevators available
More information available here.
📬 National Postal Museum
This underrated DC museum was quiet, spacious, and toddler gold. Between the vintage mail trucks and colorful stamps, it felt like a giant playroom. And it’s rarely crowded — a huge win for overstimulated kiddos and pregnant parents.
🕘 Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. daily
💰 Cost: Free
📍 Located next to Union Station (easy Metro access + elevators)
More information available here
🌎 ImagiNations Activity Center – National Museum of the American Indian
Our toddler LOVED this one. So many interactive exhibits and cultural experiences made just for kids. Plus, comfy seating and cool air for this pregnant mama.
🕘 Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Closed Mondays)
💰 Cost: Free
🛗 Elevators and stroller-friendly paths throughout
More information available here
🌱 U.S. Botanic Garden
One of the most peaceful places in Washington, DC for families. Lush pathways, water features, and a dedicated Children's Garden meant everyone could relax, play, and recharge.
🕘 Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily
💰 Cost: Free
🌳 Outdoor garden open seasonally
More information available here
🚇 Using the DC Metro with a Stroller (It’s Easier Than You Think)
I was honestly nervous at first — but using the DC Metro with a toddler and a stroller was surprisingly smooth. Here's why:
Every station has elevators, and signage is clear (though occasionally you have to walk around the block to find the entrance).
Metro cars have priority seating and space near the doors — perfect for strollers.
Kids under 5 ride free with a paying adult.
The SmarTrip card makes paying and transferring super simple — just tap and go.
Stations are clean, safe, and well-lit (we always felt comfortable).
🎯 Parent Tip: Download the “DC Metro and Bus” app to check elevator status in real time. We planned routes around stations with working elevators!
More information on using the DC Metro here.
🏨 Where to Stay in DC with Kids (All Walking Distance!)
This post contains affiliate links to Expedia. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend trusted platforms we’ve personally used for our own family travels.
Family-friendly and super close to all the museums. The rooms are quiet and spacious — and it's one of the best places to stay in DC for families without needing a car.
A great option for longer stays with kitchenettes and breakfast included. Plus, beautiful walks by the water.
🏡 Family-Friendly Airbnb in Capitol Hill
Stay near Lincoln Park — it's quiet, walkable, and close to toddler playgrounds, the Botanic Garden, and the Capitol. A great choice for families looking for relaxing neighborhoods.
🧳 Must-Have Toddler Travel Gear We Used Daily
This gear made our time in DC easier, cooler, and more manageable — especially while I was pregnant:
Portable blackout curtains – for mid-day naps in rentals
Compact travel stroller – lightweight and Metro-friendly
Stroller fan – DC gets humid!
Ergobaby carrier – lifesaver for crowded places or when my toddler refused the stroller
Foldable travel high chair – helpful for dining in
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products we’ve personally used and loved while traveling as a family.
💡 Real-Life Tips for a Stress-Free Family Trip in DC
Stick to one activity per day. With pregnancy and a toddler, anything more is overkill.
Plan early mornings. Museums are quietest before 10 a.m., and toddlers are most cheerful then.
Use Metro elevators and stay central. Walking distance is your best friend.
Don’t skip nap time. Build downtime into every day — everyone wins.
Why DC Was the Perfect Family Vacation with a Toddler (and a Baby on the Way)
Our four months in Washington, DC turned out to be the exact kind of relaxing family adventure we needed — even while navigating toddler tantrums and first-trimester nausea. The city gave us calm, curiosity, and space to move at our own rhythm.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying for a few months, DC with kids can absolutely be a low-stress, memory-filled trip — even if you’re pregnant and parenting a toddler at the same time.
👉 Want more ideas for slow, relaxing family travel? Visit www.dsiesta.com for travel guides, printable planners, and tips on how to vacation calmly with kids.
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