The end of summer always comes way too fast, without enough time to mentally prepare for the school year ahead (parents included). But the school year can be filled with just as much fun as the summer!
We’ve found some of the most exciting back-to-school activities happening in D.C. this fall. Get ready to be amazed with these fun, educational, and awe-inspiring happenings in the city.
1. Travel 200 million years into the past with Dinos Alive
The only thing the kids will want to study is the astonishing force and features of 80 life-size dinosaurs and creatures. Stand in the shadows of these animated replicas and learn about the massive dinos that roamed the world!
Kids can even have a blast riding a dino! You’ll meet everything from a T-rex to the lesser known Pachycephalosaurus! Dinos Alive is only in D.C. through November, so don’t miss your chance to travel back in time!
Get your tickets here!Find Dinos Alive at the Rhode Island Center; 524 Rhode Island Ave NE, 20002-1231
2. Step into the mind of Van Gogh at this immersive art exhibit
While you’re at the Rhode Island Center, make sure to squeeze in a trip to the Van Gogh Immersive Experience. This can’t-miss showcase of highly celebrated art is a way to view Dutch genius, Vincent Van Gogh’s work in vivid detail.
The 360-degree digital show is the perfect intersection of art, cinema magic, and interactive experiences. Explore over 8 of Van Gogh’s works and walk through his “day in the life” with a VR simulation.
The out-of-this-world exhibit is the perfect break from a long week of school. Get your tickets here!
Find it at the Rhode Island Center; 524 Rhode Island Ave NE, 20002-1231
3. Take a weekend trip
The school year might indicate the end of summer, but summer doesn’t end until we say it does! Or actually until September 23, which begins astronomical fall. Escape the heat with a fun local trip you can plan on a whim. Spend the day sailing in Annapolis or enjoy some saltwater taffy on the boardwalk in Ocean City.
4. Make new friends at the Smithsonian National Zoo
There are over 360 species to meet at this D.C. zoo, which is always free to enter. Ogle at penguins and stand in the shadows of Henry, one of the zoo’s 11-ton elephants.
You can also catch birds in flight at the Bird House which reopened this summer after 6 years.
Find it at 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
5. Explore the National Mall, museums, and monuments
When was the last time you and the kiddos went to one of said places?
If you can’t remember, than it’s time to explore a new museum, like the Rubell Museum or maybe the Spy Museum. Us Washingtonians are all guilty of taking these attractions for granted, but it’s time to play tourist in this city!
Check out this guide for a list of the best and worst D.C. attractions according to fellow Washingtonians.