Greetings from the Thompsons!
Hey there, friends and fellow travel enthusiasts! We’re the Thompsons: that’s me, Jake, and our little bundle of energy, Lily, who’s just hit the 20-month mark. This holiday season, we took on an adventure of a lifetime – exploring the festive wonders of Washington DC, a city that holds a special place in our hearts, particularly as it’s home to Jake’s parents. We want to share the magic of our journey, especially how some nifty toddler travel gear made our experience a whole lot smoother.
The First Couple of Days: A World of Lights and History
Brookside Gardens & Garden of Lights:
Imagine a place where night turns into a glowing fairy tale – that’s Brookside Gardens during the holidays. Walking through this illuminated paradise with Lily was nothing short of magical. It’s a toddler’s dream with interactive displays and snacks galore. A cozy carrier for Lily and her snuggly warm boots were our best friends here, keeping her comfortable as we strolled under the stars.
The Willard Center:
Next, we stepped into the historic charm of The Willard Center, decked out in its holiday best. It was like walking into a storybook with its festive decorations. Lily enjoyed the children’s activities, especially the story time. We really appreciated the thoughtful touches for little ones, like high chairs and a handy changing room.
Days Three and Four: Lights, Action, and Festive Fun
CityCenterDC Lights:
CityCenterDC was a sight to behold with its spectacular light displays creating a festive buzz. We had a blast ice skating and browsing the holiday windows. Lily was all smiles, and we found some amazing family-friendly spots to eat. It’s a must-visit for anyone with kids in tow.
National Harbor Lights and Fireworks:
Our evening at National Harbor was a showcase of lights and fireworks that left us all in awe, especially Lily. Her giggles and wide-eyed wonder were contagious. We maneuvered through the crowds with ease, thanks to our trusty compact stroller, keeping her entertained with her favorite toys.
Day Five: Home Away From Home
Airbnb and DC Cleaning Service:
Our Airbnb stay was a highlight, offering us the comforts of home while on the road with a toddler. A huge shout-out to the Washington DC Cleaning Service – they were lifesavers, ensuring our space stayed neat and stress-free. The travel crib and pack-and-play we brought along made Lily’s sleep times as cozy as they are at home.
Wrapping Up Our DC Adventure
Looking back, the joy of watching Lily experience the holiday magic in DC was unforgettable. Our travel gear, especially the stroller and carrier, along with the fantastic DC Cleaning Service, made our journey enjoyable and hassle-free.
We’re always on the lookout for new tips and adventures, so feel free to share your experiences or suggest where we should head next!
Little Extras:
Throughout our travels, we learned the importance of having the right gear for the right activity. A lightweight stroller is a godsend in busy spots, and comfy, warm outfits are essential for those chilly outdoor events. We’ve added some of our favorite photos and videos to give you a taste of our holiday adventures. Also, check out our tags for the cool spots and vendors that made our trip so special.
Can’t wait to hear from you all about your travel stories and tips! Let’s keep the adventure going!