This is one of the must see places when visiting DC. It's the best museum on the mall for kids small and large. Kids love the dinosaurs, mammals, and the new sea creatures exhibits. This museum can get very crowded, especially during holiday weekends. The food area is much improved recently. Like most places on the mall in DC, parking is a challenge.

It's a hike from DC, but if you are in Virginia it's a nice day trip. The museum is in an old historic building. You'll think you went back in time 100 years. All the exhibits are interactive and the entire museum is child proof so it's safe for even the young ones to roam around. There is no food on-site but you can leave and return throughout the day.

If you are looking for a place to have a bite to eat, but have toddlers or small kids with you, this is a great option. There is a supervised area where your kids can play while you watch them and eat in peace. The food isn't great but they have basic sandwiches, snacks, and coffee. There is a reading area for older kids.

As far as museums go, this isn't much of one. But it's actually a fantastic play area for kids from 2-6. The carpeted atrium is one of the largest indoor spaces in DC, and has hosted inaugural parties. There are lots of building blocks and stuff for kids to stack (and knock down) at one end of the atrium. There is also a separate room called the Building Zone with more building materials, dress up costumes, make believe house, books, and more. Everything is free but there can be a line to get into the Building Zone. Parking around the museum is limited. There is a small snack shop with drinks, cookies, and fruit.

Sure, Tysons Corner has shopping. It's one of the largest malls in the country. But it's also a great destination for toddlers. In the newest section by the movie theaters and next to the food court is an enclosed toddler play area with parent seating all around. It can get pretty crowded but it's a good destination on a rainy day, or when you need to get some shopping done. There are plenty of restaurants. Go straight to the top levels of the parking garage and take the walkway directly to the food court.