Discover your family's story through interactive activities at the DAR Museum in Washington, D.C. Perfect for Brownies earning their badge, this hands-on experience makes history fun and memorable.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for children and families of all activity levels
Wildlife
History
The DAR Museum was established in 1890 and features one of the most comprehensive collections of American historical artifacts.
Conservation
The museum implements sustainable practices by conserving energy and promoting recycling during exhibits and events.
DAR Museum
Discover your family's story through interactive activities at the DAR Museum in Washington, D.C. Perfect for Brownies earning their badge, this hands-on experience makes history fun and memorable.
DAR Museum, located in Washington, District of Columbia, offers focused educational programs and museum experiences that connect visitors to family history and American life. The museum presents guided tours, youth badge programs, monthly online talks, and portable education rentals for schools and community groups. Featured offerings include the Brownie Girl Scout Badge program, the Junior Girl Scout Badge program, guided exploration of the period rooms, the Tuesday Talk lecture series, and Portable Education Program (PEP) rentals. These programs use storytelling, object-based learning, hands-on crafts, and role-play to engage learners of varying ages and backgrounds.
The Brownie Girl Scout Badge session invites families to explore ancestry, play storytelling games, create diaries, and build a simple family tree while earning the “My Family Story” badge. The Junior Girl Scout Badge program transports participants to 1913 to recreate a suffrage parade, craft a “Votes for Women” sash, and prepare brief speeches while working toward the “Playing the Past” badge. Guided Exploration of the Period Rooms offers tours of historically furnished rooms that illustrate domestic life across different eras. Tuesday Talk provides monthly online presentations focusing on the history of Black craftsmanship and regional artisans. Portable Education Program Rentals supply themed, hands-on curriculum stations covering currency and jobs; food and clothing; education and play; and household management. Each offering supports educational goals and group learning in a museum setting.
Programs are suitable for families, school groups, scouts, and community organizations; bookings and details are available through the museum's program listings, and seasonal special events.
Location
Washington, DC
Central museum in the capital
Programs Offered
5 main programs
Badge sessions, tours, talks, rentals
Monthly Talks
Tuesday Talk
Monthly online presentations
Portable Programs
PEP Rentals
Hands-on, themed education stations
Reserve guided tours, Girl Scout badge sessions, Tuesday Talk sign-ups, or Portable Education Program rentals to bring hands-on history to your group.
Bring a notebook or family photos
Document your family history and enhance storytelling with personal mementos.
Arrive early for a full experience
Getting there at the start of the day allows for a relaxed, unrushed visit.
Dress comfortably for hands-on activities
Wear clothes suitable for handling artifacts and participating in interactive games.
Ask about special programs or discounts
Check if there are birthday parties or group rates available for your visit.
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for exploring the museum and nearby historic areas comfortably.
Notebook and pen
Great for jotting down family stories and keeping track of activities.
Family photos or memorabilia
Enhances storytelling and personal connection to family history.
Light snacks and water
Stay energized and hydrated during your visit.