Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
There is plenty here for young visitors, in particular the Insect Zoo featuring live
specimens of giant hissing cockroaches and large leaf-cutter ants, and the Dinosaur
Hall which contains a cast of a nest of dinosaur eggs and reconstructions of dinosaur
skeletons. The interactive Hall of Mammals features 274 taxidermy exhibits, and the
Discovery Room allows children (and adults!) to hold and touch objects such as cro-
codile heads and elephant tusks. The Live Butterfly Pavilion is home to species from
around the world.
Constitution Ave & 10th St, NW • Open 10am-5:30pm daily •
Closed Dec 25 •
www.mnh.si.edu
• Dis. access • Free
Google Map
9. SMITHSONIAN CAROUSEL
Located in front of the Arts and Industries Building at the Smithsonian is a delightful
authentic carousel with brilliantly painted hand-carved animals. It only operates in
good weather, but don't miss this bit of old-world fun if you have the chance. It also
makes a refreshing break for kids beginning to tire of the surrounding museums.
900 Jefferson Drive SW • Open 10am-5pm daily • Closed Dec 25 • Adm
Google Map
10. ROCK CREEK PARK NATURE CENTER
The short nature trail here is only 1mile (1.5 km) long (for further details see
Rock
Creek Park
)
, so it is easily negotiated by children. Many native species of animals can
be spotted en route, including foxes, raccoons and deer. There is also a small planet-
arium. A number of activities that appeal to children, including arts and crafts work-
shops, are scheduled throughout the year. On a sunny day, this is also a great place
to bring along a picnic lunch and enjoy one of the city's truly natural environments.
In other parts of the park, there are also tennis courts and horse-riding trails.
5200
Glover Rd NW • 202 895 6070 • Open 9am-5pm Wed-Sun • Free
Google Map
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