You don’t need major funds to have major fun in Northern Virginia; just look at these free activities.
We promise these free things to do are more than just an aimless walk in the park. Instead, we’re making sure you get well-researched, unique suggestions worth the trip.
History
Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, Fairfax | Visit the museum that was built in 1873 and once served as Fairfax Elementary School. While you’re in the area, take a free self-guided walking tour to explore the rest of historic Old Town Fairfax.
Historic Vienna, Vienna | Historic Vienna is home to a variety of free historical activities, including the Little Library Museum — the town’s first public library.
Frying Pan Farm Park, Fairfax | While special events will run you some money, you can explore the store, walking paths, and barns for free. Pro tip: If you go in the afternoon, stick around to watch the cow milking at 4 p.m.
You get a shrimp salad, the kiddo gets a free meal.
Photo via @surfsidedc
Eat
Hard Times Cafe, Alexandria | Bring the kiddos in on Sundays from 5 to 8 p.m. for a free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entree. Bonus: All diners get $3 off between 3 and 6 p.m.
Inca Social, Vienna + Arlington | Kids ages 12 and under eat free all day long on Mondays at both locations.
Surfside, DC | After 5 p.m. on Mondays, get a free kids meal with the purchase of one adult entree.
VSDC Monthly Potluck, Arlington | Want to try something new? Join the Veg Society of DC’s free monthly vegan potluck — just make sure to bring a dish without animal products or byproducts.
Arts
Torpedo Factory Art Center, Alexandria | Explore three floors of working artist studios that are completely open to the public — in fact, the center is home to the largest number of publicly accessible art studios in the US. Pro tip: It’s free to peruse, but bring money if you’d like to take art home with you.
Library classes, Locations vary | Check out your local library branch for free event offerings, such as the weekly Fiber Friday or the upcoming Coffee and Crafts events at Pohick Regional Library.
Workhouse Arts Center, Lorton | Access to the galleries — including the three primary galleries, McGuireWoods, Vulcan, and Muse — is free. Stop by to see artwork by local, regional, and national artists.
Meridian Hill Park is a popular spot for picnickers when the weather is nice.
Photo via the NPS
Outdoors
Meridian Hill Park, DC | This popular park is open until 12 a.m. during the summer, making it the perfect spot to pack dinner and plan a date night sans cash.
King Street trolley, Alexandria | Hop on the trolley any day of the week to take a free ride between the King Street Metrorail Station and City Hall. The trolley runs every 15 minutes + makes multiple stops in Old Town Alexandria.
Huntley Meadows Park, Alexandria | Combine the Cedar, Deer, and Heron trails to create an under two-mile hike at this local park with no admission fee for individuals or families. Head to our hiking guide for more trails around NOVA.
Learn about unique inventions like the Breadcrumber, created by Joseph Lee, at the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum.
Photo via National Inventors Hall of Fame
Edu
Smithsonian, DC | Sure, this is an obvious one, but that doesn’t make it any less fantastic. All 17 Smithsonian museums and zoos in DC offer free admission — like the National Air and Space Museum, National History Museum, and National Zoo.
National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum, Alexandria | Explore the gallery of 600+ inductees, climb inside old Ford Mustang models, learn about the power of trademarks, and listen to interviews with women leaders in STEM, among other exhibits.
Northern Virginia Community College, Locations vary | NOVA community college offers three different types of free college classes to Virginia residents ages 60 and older.
Bonus: Keep an eye on our events calendar to find free, one-off events happening around NOVA each week.
