It’s summer travel season, which means it’s also family travel season. Whether heading out on a long overdue trip to the beach or just taking a quick flight to grandma’s house, a seamless, tantrum-free airport experience is what most parents are after. Thankfully, now that concessions options are more accessible than ever, including kid-approved dining and family-friendly shopping, passing the pre-boarding time with kids has never been easier.
The Smithsonian Museum Store (National Hall) is a must for families flying out of Reagan National. The boutique offers an array of souvenirs from the number one museum complex in the world. That includes things for the kiddos like astronaut ice cream, stuffed dinos, and educational toys.
Burgers and hot dogs are usually a hit amongst the small set, and we offer several options. Smashburger (Gates C23-C34) is great for made-to-order burgers and tots; Ben’s Chili Bowl (National Hall), features their iconic chili that can go on beef, turkey, and even veggie dogs; and Five Guys (Gates D34-D45) is a perennial favorite among diehard burger fans. Bonus: All three stops also offer frosty and fresh milkshakes as well.
If you’re searching for a seafood experience, Legal Sea Foods (National Hall) also has you covered with its Kids Menu, offering burgers, chicken fingers, or even kid-friendly fish & chips.
Need to stock up on distractions for the plane? Head to Ink by Hudson (National Hall) for children’s books, a unique selection of toys, and snacks like trail mix. For snacks and drinks, head to CNBC News (National Hall). In search of plain milk? Parents can pick some up–plus their coffee–at Starbucks (National Hall and Gates B10-B22). Washingtonian News and Hudson News (National Hall) also stock plenty of games, stuffed animals, and other kid-friendly in-flight distractions. You’ll find a selection of diapers, wipes, and children’s OTC medicine at most newsstands.
For more kid-friendly fun at the airport, try:
● &pizza - If your kids prefer pizza over burgers. (Gates D35-D45)
● AMERICA! – Toys and games that celebrate the USA (National Hall)
● Chick-fil-A - For the chicken lovers in the family (National Hall)
● Dunkin’ - Coffee for you, donuts for the kids. (National Hall, Gates A1-A9, Gates C23-C34, and Gates D35-D45)
● InMotion - If you forgot an iPad and want to give the kids a movie treat in-flight. (National Hall and Gates E46-E59)
● Vineyard Vines - For last-minute bathing suits and other warm-weather vacation essentials. (National Hall)