We’re not kiddin’ around when it comes to having fun in town. From major attractions like the Smithsonian to hidden gems like Continues Arcade, there’s something in NOVA for children of all ages.
You’ll have no trouble entertaining the youngsters with this list of 20 kid-friendly activities around the 703.
All about the arts
Museum of Contemporary Modern Art Arlington | Spend a day walking around nine gallery spaces and the lawn to see different types of art + changing exhibits — bonus: On Sundays, now through June 15, there will be free family outdoor events. Kids will remember standing in front of a piece of artwork and taking in all of the details.
KidCreate Studio, Alexandria + Fairfax | Create work that belongs front and center on the fridge at this kids-only studio. Kids will remember meeting other artists their age, creating seasonal works, and painting their favorite cartoon characters.
Art House 7, Arlington | Those ages 2+ can tap into their inner artist and explore all mediums, from ceramics and painting to fiber arts and photography. Kids will remember taking a multi-week class or workshop that inspires a new passion.
Grab your favorite picnic blanket and snacks before heading out to these scenic areas around Northern Virginia.
Photo by @travelswithnano
Great outdoors
Bon Air Park, Arlington | The whole family can enjoy this 24-acre park that features playgrounds, a stream + a memorial rose garden with more than 120 varieties of roses. Kids will remember having a picnic and enjoying a walk around the area.
Old Town Square, Fairfax | Take in local history with a modern feel with the Pergola + McCandlish Memorial Garden, the cascading water feature, and the splash pad when its open. Kids will remember being with family during city events like Rock the Block and the Fall Festival.
Waterfront Park, Alexandria | Take a stroll on the walking trails, see the public art, or pack supplies for a picnic. Kids will remember boat watching right from the docks.
Educational activities
Smithsonian Insitution, Washington, D.C. | You might want to mark off a whole day or weekend to explore over 15 different museums + the zoo with the family. Kids will remember diving into American and natural history, learning about air and space discoveries, and seeing works of art.
Children’s Science Center Lab, Fairfax | Family memberships available | On the weekends, kids can explore science in four galleries filled with hands-on activities and experiments during two-hour windows. Kids will remember operating the robotic arm.
Nova Wild, Fairfax County | Family memberships available | 30 acres make up Northern Virginia’s only zoological park + features over 200 animals, from lemurs to the American Bison. Kids will remember learning about the conservation efforts of this zoo while enjoying the drive-thru safari.
Indoor adventures
Lego Discovery Center, Washington, D.C. | Get inspired to build your own worlds with 12 different zones + construction sessions for first-time builders — bonus: First Wednesdays of every month are Sensory Friendly Mornings. Kids will remember building a custom companion to join them on the adventure.
Continues Arcade, Alexandra | Once this spot has its grand opening, all ages can enjoy fun from the 1970s to now with the help of 50 original arcade cabinets, Skee Ball, claw machines + pinball machines. Kids will remember using tokens to start up a game of Mortal Kombat.
Scramble Indoor Play, Alexandria | Visit this indoor play area that offers curated physical + cognitive play based on age ranges and abilities. Kids will remember playing pretend in the different worlds, from a fairy tale castle to The Great Wall of China.
Thrill-seeking fun
Climb UPton, Arlington | Get your adrenaline pumping at this 90-element vertical adventure that’s open every March through November. Kids will remember tackling the three different levels via zip lines.
Great Waves Waterpark, Alexandria | Open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, this is sure to be a splash with your kiddos as they take on the wave pool + seven slides. Kids will remember soaking up the sun on the splash pads and floating in a tube.
Scramble Parkour, Arlington | From the free-form zone and friendly-competitive parallel courses to the Jollyheap Blocks for cognitive play, this gym has it all for kiddos, teens + accompanying adults. Kids will remember doing flips and scaling crosswalls.
Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park, Fairfax County | Fly through the trees during a zipline or rope-course adventure or even try an outdoor escape room. Kids will remember channeling their inner monkey to climb rope obstacles + walking across treetop bridges.
Sensory-friendly playgrounds
Potomac Yard Park, Alexandria | With two separate play areas, kiddos of all abilities can enjoy sensory-friendly equipment + outdoor play. Kids will remember running through the fountains and playing with the sound-play devices or mazes.
Clemyjontri Park, Fairfax County | Opened as Virginia’s first park for children of all abilities, this spot includes a carousel, trackless train rides, a wheelchair-accessible Liberty Swing + a playground that offers different types of play, including quiet fun. Kids will remember the Rainbow Room and maze.
Drew Park, Arlington | This park has a partially-enclosed splash pad, is wheel chair accessible + offers sensory-friendly equipment. Kids will remember controlling the water speeds on warm summer days.
Chessie’s Big Backyard, Alexandria | Follow Chessie’s Trail, which spans 2,160 ft + offers a sound garden, spinning rocks, and more for all senses. Kids will remember climbing in the tree house and playing on the rubber floors of the playground.
Be prepared
Shop some of our favorite kid-friendly essentials to keep the whole family happy, hydrated, and ready to make memories.
- Owala Kids Insulated Stainless Steel Tumbler | This tumbler has a spill-resistant straw (yes, that’s a thing) and is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- Bentgo Kids Five-Compartment Lunch Box | Pack snacks for kids in a popular Bentgo box that’s BPA-free and dishwasher safe.
- Nintendo Switch | You just can’t beat a handheld gaming device for keepings kids quiet, happy, and entertained during car rides around town.
- Hap Tim Travel Backpack | Keep everything in a backpack that’s got good padding on the straps, plenty of compartments, a wide mouth opening, and a rain-resistant exterior.
- Kids sketch pad | Kids can sketch, take notes, and feel connected to your adventures with a sketchbook meant to inspire creativity.
- Disposable cameras | Kids will have a ton of fun + stay entertained by taking their own pictures of what they see during your adventures.
- KeepGoing Travel First Aid Kit for Kids | Be prepared for minor scrapes or bruises that could slow your day down — this kit contains 60 pieces of essential first aid supplies.
- Sunscreen stick | Have a portable sunscreen stick handy for outdoor adventures.
