We love visiting at least one Smithsonian when we are in DC, and this is definitely a favorite! Our almost four year old daughter loves the dinosaurs and all of the beautiful gems. Even when it is crowded it is fun. The giant elephant in the main entrance is also a big hit. It's amazing to see so many exhibits for free. Definitely check it out!

We enjoyed a free visit thanks to the ASTC Passport program and our science center membership from home. Our almost four year old daughter LOVED the dinosaur area on the first floor, especially where she could uncover fossils! Another highlight was the kids area on the third floor...lots of activities for the younger visitors. This was a fun addition to our visit to the Inner Harbor.

This aquarium is outstanding! Even though it is pricey, you definitely get your money's worth. Our almost four year old daughter absolutely loved it! Seeing the volunteer scuba divers feed the rays was definitely the highlight! The way the aquarium is set up leads you through many different areas and allows you to see MANY different life forms. Incredible! Allow several hours to thoroughly enjoy your experience. Definitely worth adding to a trip to Baltimore!

We toured the White House with our almost four year old daughter during the holidays. What an amazing experience! Seeing all of the beautiful decorations while learning so much about US history. It was fabulous! After the hour long tour we walked around outside, took many photos (photos are not allowed inside), and saw the national tree. This is definitely a must on a trip to DC!

We rode the ferry from Anacortes to Orcas Island (and then back again). We left Anacortes on a Sunday in July. We arrived around 11:30 and had to wait until the 4:00 ferry. Luckily, we had packed some snacks. There is a small snack shack and a little cafe for buying food during the wait. There is also a cute little beach to play on. Unfortunately, there is very little shade...so be prepared to be warm during your wait!

The ferry ride is about an hour long and is gorgeous. Our three year old daughter loved being inside and outside, watching the water and other boats. It was quite fun.

Coming back, we left Orcas Island on a Thursday. We had a couple hour wait before the ferry left, but luckily there are several little shops and restaurants to keep you occupied, and there is a lot of shade to keep you cool. We really enjoyed our time at the ferry landing. And on the ferry ride back to Anacortes we saw a whale! Very exciting!

The ferry ride was a highlight of our trip to Orcas Island.