There is so much to enjoy on the Hillwood Estate in DC's Forest Hills neighborhood.

The former estate of Marjorie Merriweather Post, the mansion and its unbelievable gardens make an outing that will be enjoyed by children and their parents.  The house maintains an incredible decorative art collection, including Faberge eggs, tapestries, and jewelry.  It's also fascinating to tour the house itself, which features a beauty salon and a community room for the staff that was required to run such a large household. 

The gardens are breathtaking, with highlights including a Russian dacha built-in 1969, a pet cemetery, and a Japanese-style garden.  It's lovely to walk the grounds and children will enjoy the winding paths, water features, and secret nooks. 

Visitors may bring food and non-alcoholic beverages for picnics, or purchase food, beverages, beer, and wine at the Hillwood Café. Picnic maps and complimentary picnic blankets are available in the Visitor Center.  Allow plenty of time here as you can easily occupy three hours in the museum and on the grounds. 

The estate also hosts family events including a Thursday morning Preschool Series that can be purchased as a series or individual session at member and nonmember prices, featuring a Gardens Alive! program during the month of May, and pajama party movie nights.  Tickets are required.  

The estate and grounds are closed on Mondays.

The Soapstone Valley Hiking Trail and the Western Ridge Trail of Rock Creek Park are both very closeby for some extra fresh air in a well-balanced and adventurous day. Additionally, Bread Furst is a great spot on the other end of the Soapstone Trail for delicious coffee and pastries, and a few minutes from there you will find the playground at Forest Hills Park. Less than five minutes in the other direction from Bread Furst, the Van Ness-UDC Metro station is conveniently located.