Discover the Real D.C. with Your Students

Washington, D.C., offers your student travelers a world of possibilities. Educational opportunities abound, and the city is known for its wealth of attractions that are free of charge. Students can embrace science and technology, marvel at world-class art, explore civil rights history and much more.

Embrace Science & Technology
At the newly opened National Law Enforcement Museum, students can participate in workshops, guided tours and self-guided experiences. In May 2019, the International Spy Museum will open the doors of its new permanent home, offering engaging and interactive programs for kids in a 140,000-square-foot space.

The wonders of the modern architecture are on full display at the National Building Museum, which features a professional education staff who can guide tours and lead programs that engage kids with the build environment.

When the National Museum of Natural History opens its newly renovated Fossil Hall on June 8, 2019, kids can see a T. rex and enjoy docent-led tours, discovery carts, and interactive workshops.

Marvel at World-Class Art
A guided tour of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, which does not charge admission, will challenge your students to investigate the country’s identity, history, and culture through fascinating art in a range of media.

The National Gallery of Art offers a variety of themed school tours for all ages, from American art to French art to mythology. The free museum also features in-depth workshops for high school students.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will open The REACH on September 7, 2019, boasting a Learning Lab with hands-on art experiences, social events and youth programs.

Explore Civil Rights History
The free-to-visit National Museum of African American History and Culture will inform students of essential civil rights history through stunning exhibits and rare artifacts.

Take a bite of the world-famous half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl. At this local civil rights history establishment, students can have a meal while learning about the civil rights struggle from a local D.C. historian. Walk a few blocks and review earlier history at the African American Civil War Memorial Museum.

For help designing multiday itineraries on these subjects, reach out to Lindsay Hill, Senior Manager, Tourism Sales, at lindsay@washington.org or 202.789.7088. To learn about all the nation’s capital has to offer for groups, visit Destination DC.

Content and photo courtesy of Destination DC.