A long weekend in the DC area is a great opportunity to enjoy family time. The best family-friendly experiences for Labor Day include everything from outdoor music festivals and car shows to a family meal after a baseball game at Nationals Park. DC offers some great options for your family to enjoy Labor Day weekend this year.
Before the weekend ends go hear live music at DC JazzFest located in the heart of the nation’s capital or explore the Potomac River on a paddleboard. The whole family can enjoy Labor Day with a trip to one of the many Smithsonian Museums.
In this guide we’ve rounded up the best things for families to do for Labor Day this year. Whether it’s an outdoor adventure or family meal, the DC area offers a great variety of activities to enjoy Labor Day weekend.
Experience DC JazzFest
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Blending heritage, history, culture and music, DC JazzFest is the place to be this Labor Day weekend in the heart of the nation’s capital. Taking place Aug. 27–31, this beloved festival has been a cultural cornerstone in the DC community for more than two decades, celebrating all things jazz with performances from Grammy-winning legends and rising stars alike. The family-friendly event features lively shows across music venues in all four quadrants of the city.
The primary event — DC JazzFest at The Wharf — offers an animated urban experience at the Wharf and offers an exclusive location for a full festival experience. Tickets start at as little as $25. Featuring a scenic outdoor stage, the Wharf is the festival’s central hub. This year’s unique theme features a tribute to Jazz icons such as Duke Ellington and John Coltrane, Women in Jazz and Global Jazz Fusion showcasing artists who blend jazz with world music. Special programs will be held including masterclasses and workshops led by top jazz musicians, youth and family events featuring interactive jazz performances for all ages and late-night jam sessions showcasing unscripted performances where musicians improvise together.
Hours: Aug. 27-31, 2025
Location: 1001 7th St. SW, Washington DC
Phone: (855) 332-7767
Know before you go
- Admission & Tickets
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- You do not need a ticket to listen to performances from the Wharf Street promenade. To access the performances on District Pier or Transit Pier, Union Stage or Arena Stage, a ticket is required. Three ticket options are offered including general admission, VIP passes and multi-day passes. Tickets start from $25 and can be purchased on their website.
- Parking Info
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- Plan for lots of vehicular traffic and limited parking at The Wharf. Instead of driving, ride the Metro to Waterfront Station and walk one block to The Wharf, or ride Metro to L’Enfant Plaza and connect to The Wharf on the free Southwest Shuttle or consider taking Bikeshare.
- If you can’t avoid driving, plan to park in one of their three underground parking garages that are open around the clock. Or, utilize one of the nearby off-site parking garages (view PDF map), including Ace Parking at L’Enfant Plaza (420 10th St SW), L’Enfant East Parking Garage (840 D St SW), or the 1100 4th St SW Garage.
- Music at DC JazzFest® at The Wharf starts at noon Aug. 30 and Aug. 31. The Wharf is open early and you are encouraged to arrive earlier and experience the shops, restaurants, local vendors and entertainment at The District Wharf, DC’s premier waterfront destination. Be sure to include Arena Stage on the list just steps away with performances in the Kogod and Meet the Artist conversations in the Grand Lobby.
Review Highlight: “What a fantastic event for Labor Day weekend this year, with the perfect location and amazing performers,” shares Yen L, Yelp reviews.
Watch some MLB baseball at Nationals Park
There’s no place better to showcase your team spirit and have some family bonding than a baseball game. The Washington Nationals host the Tampa Bay Rays and Miami Marlins from Friday to Wednesday. Celebrate the holiday cheering on the Nationals and experience exciting MLB action.
Nationals Park is located on the bustling Capitol Riverfront, one of the District’s fastest-growing areas. Easily accessible from the Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro stop on the Green Line, the neighborhood provides many dining options for before and after the game. Buy tickets now and get to see the National’s new City Connects Jerseys for 2025 and watch the GEICO Presidents Race which takes place during the fourth inning of every game, featuring oversized likenesses of George Washington, Tom Jefferson, Abe Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt.
Location: 1500 South Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 675-6287
Review Highlight: “What a ballpark! Loved the layout and how there were gems to be found across all levels. The in-game entertainment is fantastic, especially the host; she was a delight! The racing presidents [were] definitely a highlight and the nods to the surrounding area was a nice touch,” shares Nick Armes, Google Reviews.
Visit a Smithsonian Museum or Zoo
The museum capital of the world offers a great variety of museums and experiences to explore that are also free of charge. With over 15 museums and a Zoo, there is no shortage of options from the Smithsonian Institution to visit. Interactive exhibits, unique kid programs and collections of historical artifacts offer something for the whole family.
From the Air and Space Museum to the National Museum of the American Indian, the Smithsonian Institution offers a variety of unique world-class museums. Don’t forget about the Smithsonian National Zoo, where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of wildlife with unique exhibits, themed animal attractions and special kid-friendly events.
Location: the Smithsonian museums and zoo are located throughout the DC area
- Museum of Natural History: 10th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily
Phone: (202) 633-1000 - Museum of American History: 1300 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily
Phone: (202) 633-1000 - Air and Space Museum: 6th Street and Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC
Hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily
Phone: (202) 633-2214 - American Indian Museum: 4th Street and Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC
Hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily
Phone: (202) 633-1000 - National Zoo: 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, DC
Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. March 15-Sept. 14; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 15-March 14
Phone: (202) 633-2614
*More information and museum options can be found on their website
Review highlight: “Super clean and organized. My kids, teen to toddler were totally excited about the exhibits,” shares Deborah Barlow Taylor, Google reviews.
Experience paddling the Potomac River
The many waterfronts in and around the District offer a wide variety of outdoor water activities for the whole family to enjoy, including kayak, paddleboarding and boat tours. One great option is Key Bridge Boathouse, where you can paddleboard or boat past the Georgetown Waterfront, Roosevelt Island, the Lincoln Memorial and under the beautiful Key Bridge. You can also kayak and board your way upriver to the C&O Canal for a relaxing day of tranquility.
Key Bridge Boathouse offers classes and tours for every age so you can level up your skills while enjoying a unique view of the DC area. Discover DC from the water from your choice of transportation including kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, rowboats and sailboats. All available to reserve online.
Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily
Location: 3500 Water St. NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 337-9642
Review Highlight: “Great experience renting two single kayaks with a friend here. The online reservation process was easy and straightforward, and checking in was fast. It was a superb experience from start to finish and a beautiful day to spend on the river. Loved seeing all of the birds and wildlife too,” says Cas B, Google Reviews.
Experience a carshow
Car enthusiasts of all ages are welcome at the annual Labor Day car show produced by the City of Fairfax and the Clifton Lions Club. The family-friendly show is free of charge and showcases everything including antiques, classics, foreign, customs, street rods, muscle cars, trucks, motorcycles and more.
The mission of the show is to raise money for local charitable service organizations. It’s an open event with vehicles of any type welcome to participate. Over 250 show cars from 24 different manufacturers participated in last year’s event and over 5,000 spectators enjoyed all the sights, sounds and food.
Hours: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 1
Location: The show is held in the heart of Fairfax City along University Drive between Sager and Armstrong Streets and the adjacent parking lots, adjacent to Fire Station 3, 4081 University Drive.
Review Highlight: “It’s a great time to see so many spectators here just looking at all the cars and the kids just having a great time,” says Jeff Greenfield, FOX 5 News video.
Enjoy a family meal
A long weekend is the perfect time to enjoy a family meal at one of DC’s many great restaurants. Whether it’s an excellent brunch at Founding Farmers or Ted’s Bulletin or an affordable dinner at Joia, DC has plenty of options to make it a great Labor Day weekend.
- Founding Farmers: From breakfast to brunch, lunch to dinner, their patios are open and ready to welcome you. Whether you’re soaking up sunshine or sipping under the stars, they have the perfect outdoor spot for your next meal.
Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 8:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 8:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
Location: 1924 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 822-8783
- Ted’s Bulletin: Your local neighborhood spot with something for everyone where you can savor “The Every Day.” Ted’s features a diverse menu of reimagined American classics with all-day breakfast and satisfying portions in an inviting atmosphere. Enjoy made-from-scratch favorites like french toast, chicken and waffles, steaks, burgers and indulgent desserts.
Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Location: 1005 First St. NE, Suite 3, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 793-6700
- Joia: One of Washington Post’s Food Critic’s favorite spots right now is serving up a minimalist, affordable menu of delicious smash burgers, fries and purple ube soft-serve ice cream.
Hours: 11 a.m.-9 pm. Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday; closed Monday
Location: 3213 Mount Pleasant St. NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 999-8195
Review highlight: “One of the great things about Washington is the ability to pretty much eat your way around the world without boarding a plane,” shares Tom Sietsema, The Washington Post.
Experience the DC Festival of Magic
The fifth annual Festival of Magic is bringing together the finest magicians from around the world for an electrifying showcase of mind-blowing illusions, jaw-dropping sleight of hand and side-splitting comedy. Whether you’re a lifelong magic fan or a curious newcomer, the DC Festival of Magic promises a weekend of astonishment, laughter and pure entertainment for the whole family — all in the heart of the nation’s capital.
A collaboration between the historic Capital Hilton and renowned mentalist and magician Brian Curry, this festival transforms Labor Day weekend into a celebration of wonder, illusion and unforgettable performances. Booking a stay in the heart of magic at the Capital Hilton will also provide luxury accommodations, exclusive festival perks and the convenience of being right where the magic happens.
Location: 1001 16th St. NW Washington, DC
Know before you go
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Admission & Tickets
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- Scheduling for each performance can be found online along with individual ticket purchase. Once you arrive, follow signs to the show and you’ll see the host standing outside the performance area. If you purchased tickets online, the name you used to buy the tickets will be on the host’s guest list.
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- Tickets are limited so early purchase is recommended.
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Parking Info
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- Valet is available at the hotel. Parking garages and street parking are limited, but available.
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- The closest Metro Stations are McPherson Square Station (Orange, Silver Blue) and Farragut North (Red)
Review Highlight: “Amazing and spectacular weekend. Can’t wait for next year’s,” says Max Erdrich, Facebook Reviews
Explore DC with an Old Town Trolley
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, an Old Town Trolley Tour is the perfect way to visit all the Washington, DC, attractions and historic sites in one weekend. You can hop on and off at your leisure so you can experience the activities and sights that interest you and your family the most. Whether you’re just breezing through or enjoying an extended stay, they’ve got several options to choose from to help you maximize your time in DC.
The finest, most highly-trained and knowledgeable guides will lead you and your family on an adventure like none other. Offering exclusive authorization to historic sites like the Arlington National Cemetery will make it an unique, unforgettable experience. Their easy-to-use interactive map will help you maximize your Washington, DC, Tour experience with helpful information on the best shopping, entertainment and restaurants in the area.
Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily
Location: You may start your Old Town Trolley Tour at any of their convenient stops. Click on Map and Stops to see a list of their stops with information about the attractions and points of interest at each stop.
Phone: (844) 356-2603
Know before you go
- Admission & tickets
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- Old Town Trolley tours offer a variety of tour options with prices starting as low as $19.50 for the Arlington National Cemetery Tour. Tickets can be purchased online through their website or at on-site sales depots.
- Tour route and times
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- In total, the day tour route is approximately one hour and 30 minutes long. Old Town Trolley Tours of DC operates the city’s largest fleet of sightseeing vehicles and this allows them to pick up and drop off more frequently than any other trolley company. The frequency of the trolleys depends on the time of the year, as well as traffic and weather conditions.
- You may start your Old Town Trolley Tour at any of their convenient stops. Click on Map and Stops to see a list of their stops with information about the attractions and points of interest at each stop.
Review Highlight: “Your old town trolley tour is amazing! My friend and I are both 25 year students and the trolley was our favorite activity during our week in DC. Definitely fun for all ages! All of our trolley drivers were great, but Super Dave was really Super,” says J.S, Old Town Trolley website reviews.
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