Milkshakes have come a long way from their classic diner days. Today, they’re taller, wilder and topped with everything from cupcakes to full-sized cookies. In this roundup, we’re highlighting six over-the-top, family-friendly milkshake spots across DC, Maryland and Virginia. To ensure these picks are kid-approved and worth the trip, we gathered information from trusted sources including Eater DC, Yelp, Reddit and business websites. Each location was chosen for its fun atmosphere, creative presentation and all-ages accessibility, so get your camera (and your sweet tooth) ready.
The Yard Milkshake Bar (National Harbor, MD)
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At National Harbor’s waterfront location, The Yard Milkshake Bar delivers epic shakes topped with cookies, candy and even doughnuts. Kids and adults love choosing from 24 flavors and 60 toppings, plus vegan and gluten-free options, then watching the staff build their towers of whipped cream and sweets. The festive atmosphere and Instagram-ready creations make it a hit for family outings.
Address: 185 Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, MD
Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
Phone: (251) 948-0121
Website: https://theyardmilkshakebar.com/national-harbor-menu
Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar (Old Town Alexandria, VA)
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Crazy Mason in Old Town serves colossal shakes in mason jars topped with brownies, candy bars, cookies or waffles. Its artistic, “crazy creation” approach earns fame, and parents appreciate portions made for sharing so siblings can sample various outrageous flavors.
Address: 716 King St., Alexandria, VA
Hours: 5-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 5-10 p.m. Friday; 12:30-10 p.m. Saturday; 12:30-9 p.m. Sunday
Website: https://thecrazymason.com/
Ted’s Bulletin (DC and Arlington)
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While known for diner-style meals, Ted’s Bulletin also offers nonalcoholic and kid-safe boozy shakes. Think milkshakes crowned with scones or Oreos and whipped cream — without compromising on classic flavors. Its bright, family-friendly diner atmosphere fits perfectly for parents and little ones.
Address: 1005 First St. NE, Suite 3, Washington, DC
Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
Phone: (202) 793-6700
Website: https://tedsbulletin.com/
Good Stuff Eatery (Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Crystal City)
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Best known for its toasted marshmallow shake, Good Stuff Eatery balances nostalgia with quality. Rich shakes arrive topped with marshmallows or strawberries, and kids love the playful flavors while grown-ups appreciate the nostalgic-casual vibe.
Address: 303 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC
Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
Phone: (202) 543-8222
Website: https://goodstuffeatery.com/
Ben’s Chili Bowl (U Street, DC)
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A DC institution, Ben’s Chili Bowl is beloved for its half-smoke hot dogs — and its thick, creamy shakes in classic flavors like chocolate, strawberry or Oreo. Topped with whipped cream and cherries, the shakes are a crowd-pleasing finale in a family-friendly casual venue.
Address: 1213 U St. NW, Washington, DC
Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday and Sunday; 11 a.m.-4 a.m. Friday-Saturday
Phone: (202) 667-0909
Website: https://benschilibowl.com/
Captain Cookie and the Milkman (Foggy Bottom/GWU, DC)
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Part bakery, part milkshake bar, this spot offers rich milkshakes paired with signature ice cream cookie sandwiches. Its kid-friendly setting near campus makes it a convenient treat stop for families exploring museums or the National Mall.
Address: 2040 I St. NW, Washington, DC
Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
Phone: (202) 795-9184
Website: https://captaincookiedc.com/
From mason jar marvels in Alexandria to nostalgic diner-style shakes in DC, these six DMV spots serve up milkshakes that are part dessert, part experience and totally Instagram-worthy. Whether you’re after fruity marshmallow creations or classic cookies-and-cream towers, these family-friendly destinations deliver smiles and sweet memories.
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