A Washington Capitals game is one of the most exciting outings in Washington, DC. For kids, it can be a sensory whirlwind with all the action going on. Here is your complete playbook for attending a Capitals game and making it an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Best Days for a Washington Capitals Game With Kids
The best Capitals games to bring kids to are the ones that start with early puck drops or fall on promotional nights. The Capitals have a promotional calendar on their website that shares all the nights with special events.
Weeknight games are also recommended because they’re usually less crowded, making them a calmer choice for families. However, keep in mind the later finish time as it can potentially be an issue if there’s school or work the next day.
Kid Specific Events
- The Caps Kids Club is for children 12 years old and under. The annual membership includes an exclusive kit, monthly newsletters, discounted tickets and special event invites.
- Many theme nights include giveaways that kids would enjoy. Popular ones amongst families are Youth Hockey Night and Women in Hockey Night. A full schedule of theme nights can also be found on the promotional calendar.
- Slapshot, the Washington Capitals’ mascot, entertains the kids throughout the game and is available for pictures.
Ticket Information
The best way to purchase Washington Capitals tickets is through their website, but StubHub and Ticketmaster carry tickets as well.
For kids, games with a 6 p.m. or earlier start time are ideal because of the less rowdy crowd. Some family-friendly seating areas in the Capital One Arena include the lower bowl ends and the 200-level center sections. Lower bowl end seats put you right behind the goals, giving you a front-row view of every scoring play. The 200-level center sections provide a balanced look at the entire rink while still coming in at lower-bowl prices.
It’s important to avoid the seats behind the player benches or penalty boxes if anyone in the family is noise sensitive. The volume of players and fans in these areas tend to intensify quickly.
Transportation & Parking
The easiest option to reach the Capital One Arena is by the Metro. The Gallery Place Chinatown station exits right into the area.
Parking can be a little trickier than the Metro. To secure cheaper rates, pre-booking parking apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz offer options to purchase before game day. Visit the Capital One Arena Directions & Parking page for even more specific information.
Family Amenities
- Family Restrooms: Located near Sections 102, 115 and 228
- Nursing Rooms: Ask guests services if a nursing room is needed.
- Changing Tables: Available in most men’s and women’s restrooms
Food Options for a Washington Capitals Game With Kids
Classic kid-favorites at the Capital One Arena are hotdogs, popcorn, soft pretzels and fries. On the 100 and 200 levels, there are also pizza stands. Lines for these foods are usually the shortest 15-20 minutes before the game starts or during the last five minutes of the first period.
Other incredible food options that can be a fun splurge includes Ben’s Chili Bowl, Dolcezza Gelato and District Doughnut.
Washington Capitals Game With Kids: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best seat for a Washington Capitals game with kids?
Lower bowl end sections put you right behind the goals for an up-close view of every scoring play. The 200-level center sections offer a full view of the rink at a lower price point. Avoid seats near the player benches or penalty boxes if anyone in your family is noise-sensitive.
How do kids get to Capital One Arena?
Metro is the easiest option. The Gallery Place Chinatown station on the Red, Yellow, and Green lines exits directly into the arena complex. If driving, pre-book parking through SpotHero or ParkWhiz to secure better rates before game day.
What is the Caps Kids Club?
The Caps Kids Club is a membership program for children 12 and under that includes an exclusive kit, monthly newsletters, discounted tickets, and invitations to special events. Visit the Capitals website for current season membership details.
What food options are available for kids at Capital One Arena?
Kid-friendly staples include hot dogs, popcorn, soft pretzels, fries, and pizza on the 100 and 200 levels. For a fun splurge, Ben’s Chili Bowl, Dolcezza Gelato, and District Doughnut are all available inside the arena.
Is Capital One Arena good for young children?
Yes, with some planning. Weeknight games are typically less crowded and calmer for young kids. Family restrooms are near Sections 102, 115, and 228. Nursing rooms are available through Guest Services. If your child is sensitive to loud noise, choose seats away from the player benches and penalty boxes.
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Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
