Heading to a Wizards game with your family is more than just cheering on the home team — it’s a full evening of fun, energy and memories in the making. From the roar of the crowd to high-flying dunks, the experience at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, delivers something for every age. Bring your game face, order some peanuts and nachos, and let the excitement of live basketball become your next family outing.
Before you go: Planning and tickets
If you’re gearing up for a Wizards game with your family, a little prep makes a big difference:
- Tickets: Scout the schedule and opt for a Family Pack game, which includes bundled tickets plus food like hot dogs and drinks. Keep an eye on the Wizards’ promotions page, as they often run theme nights, giveaways or special offers tied to heritage nights or kids’ nights.
- Seating: Don’t forget that with kiddos, seating matters. Choose a section that balances a good view and convenience to restrooms or exits.
- Policies: Check bag policies and what you’re allowed to bring; arena rules vary.
- Parking: Arrive early to beat traffic, find parking and soak in the pregame atmosphere without rushing.
Getting to (and around) Capital One Arena
The Wizards play at Capital One Arena, located at 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC. The arena is directly connected to the Metro’s Gallery Place Chinatown station, making public transit one of the easiest options. If driving, budget extra time for downtown traffic and reserve a parking spot in a garage nearby. Once there, walkable access to surrounding neighborhoods is good, so the family can take a little stroll before or after the game. Inside, note that all alcohol sales end at the start of the fourth quarter during Wizards games, which helps keep the vibe more family-friendly late in the game. Also, check accessible entrances and elevator access if your family is using strollers or has mobility needs.
What to pack — and what to leave behind
You’ll want to balance packing essentials with staying light. Bring noise protection (earplugs or kid headphones), especially for toddlers or sensitive ears as NBA games can get loud. Packing an empty water bottle to fill after the security check, wipes, hand sanitizer and a lightweight jacket for fluctuating indoor temperatures is wise. Don’t forget tickets, ID, a power bank and maybe a quiet entertainment item (a small book or low-noise toy) for slower stretches. Confirming the arena’s bag and security policy is a must before arriving. Oversized bags or banned items can cause delays.
At the game: Pacing, restrooms and breaks
Kids may not last the full game without breaks, so map out restrooms and family rest areas ahead of time. Plan to stretch legs or grab snacks during quarter breaks and halftime. Concession stands are plentiful, but lines get long, so consider visiting stands a bit early or using mobile ordering if available. Be flexible with seating as you may need to rotate watchers or take turns walking around the concourse. When the in-arena entertainment (dancers, music, contests) kicks in, it’s often a highlight for younger fans to keep them engaged. Finally, plan your exit strategy: leaving a few minutes before the final buzzer can help avoid the crowd rush.
Kid and family perks
The Wizards lean into family engagement. Their Kids Club and Cradle Club programs offer perks such as welcome kits, kids’ events and promotional items. For select games, the Family Pack includes bundled tickets plus food, which is great value for groups. Keep an eye on theme nights, heritage promotions and giveaways, many of which are tailored to children and families. These extras transform a game from just basketball to an event your family will remember.
Nearby restaurants — great pre- or post-game picks
Here are some family-friendly dining options within walking distance of the arena. Use them for pregame fueling or a postgame cool down.
Clyde’s of Gallery Place
A casual American classic with a menu strong on crowd pleasers like burgers, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. The ambiance is lively but not overwhelming, and the staff are used to handling game crowds.
- Address: 707 7th St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 11:30 a.m.-1 a.m. Monday-Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Sunday
- Phone: (202) 347-3700
Shake Shack
If you want something fast, familiar and kid-friendly, Shake Shack is a solid fallback. Burgers, shakes, fries are things most kids will eat, and the ordering is quick, which helps when hunger strikes close to game time.
- Address: 800 F St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Thursday; 10:30 a.m.–midnight Friday-Saturday; 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (202) 800-9930
Jaleo
A bit more adventurous, Jaleo offers Spanish tapas and small plates that the family can share. It’s festive, flavorful and fun when your group wants to sample a variety.
- Address: 480 7th St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday and Sunday; 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday
- Phone: (202) 628-7949
Mi Vida
Right across from the arena, Mi Vida offers a mod-Mexican dining experience with options that appeal to both kids and adults. Tacos, quesadillas, and shareable dishes make it flexible for varying appetites.
- Address: 575 7th St. NW, Washington, DC
Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
Phone: (202) 516-5470
Inside the arena: upgraded food options
The arena itself now offers expanded and improved food selections to keep fans happy without stepping out. Some new or upgraded vendors include:
- PhoWheels (Vietnamese street food, banh mi, egg rolls)
- Kong Dog (hand-dipped corn dogs, popcorn chicken)
- Astro Doughnuts (fried chicken + doughnut combinations, classic doughnuts)
- Little Hot Chicken (Nashville hot chicken, wings, loaded mac & cheese)
- Fuku (spicy chicken tenders, sandwiches)
- Tonari (Japanese-Italian fusion pizzas)
These help reduce the need to leave and re-enter or fight the traffic for a meal.
Taking your family to a Wizards game can be a memorable night with the right preparation. Smart ticket choices, a transit plan, built-in breaks and nearby dining backups make things smoother. Use reliable sources such as the Wizards’ site, arena FAQs, local dining guides to stay updated on game promos, restaurant hours or food vendors. Go in flexibly, aim to make memories, and enjoy the energy of cheering together under the lights.
