Find out why Washington DC is one of BabyZone's Top 10 Family Travel Hot Spots:

If you're traveling to our nation's capital with little ones in tow, the first thing you need to do is make a plan. Do you have time for a weekend visit? Or are you looking for a one-day tour? Start by choosing a hotel that is suited for your visit. The Holiday Inn in Old Town is a good bed and great location. The hotel also provides free shuttle service to and from the Metro (subway).

If you are here for just a day, a great starting point is Union Station. You can begin your day with a 90-minute DC Ducks City and River Tour of some of the top attractions on land and by water. The kids will love the ride that takes you from land, right into the water. Some of the highlights of the tour are views of the Smithsonian Museums, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Jefferson Monument. The trick is to get to Union Station early. Tours start at 10AM, but it's first come, first served—and they sell out early. Consider having you and your spouse take turns standing in line while the other takes the kids window shopping or for a snack at the food court.

After your tour, head down to the Smithsonian Museums. Locals refer to this area as The Mall. There are many wonderful museums to choose from, so pick one or two museums for the day, and know what exhibits you are going to see. The Museum of Natural History is a great place to start, especially for parents with fans of animals and dinosaurs. There is also a discovery center in the museum for some hands-on activities.

If you've worked up a hunger, there is a food court (with kids meals available) on the lower level (be sure to save your leftover bread to feed the ducks later). Another great stop for the kids is the Lincoln Memorial. Although you passed it on your Ducks tour earlier, a trip to Washington DC isn't complete until you've climbed the steps and looked out over the city from the top. (There is an elevator available if your little one is napping in the stroller.)