We’re channeling our inner Miley Cyrus with this one: It’s the climb.
More specifically, we want to highlight Sportrock Climbing Centers. Founded in 1994, there’s a wealth of options for those looking for a challenge or a new weeknight routine at its three NOVA locations. With beginner classes, summer camps, kids’ offerings, and social evenings all on the calendar, anyone can find their spot on the wall.
Asked
Asked
Where in NOVA do you go to feel like you’ve left town?
Let us know your favorite spot in the area that makes you feel like you’ve traveled somewhere else.
BTS Trivia | 5 p.m. | Courthouse Library, Arlington | Free | Where’s NOVA’s BTS ARMY at? Show off your fandom + standom with questions about the beloved K-Pop group and their music.
Tuesday, June 10
“Rosslyn LIVE: Mentalist” | 6-8 p.m. | Gateway Park, Arlington | $12+ | Experience the art of illusion as Kourosh Taie takes you on a magical journey of comedy, magic, and mentalism.
Wednesday, June 11
City of Alexandria Community Cookout | 6-7:30 p.m. | Patrick Henry Recreation Center, Alexandria | Free | Meet your neighbors, grab a bite, and build community with free games + activities to boot.
Thursday, June 12
Garden Tour & Tea | 1 p.m. | Green Spring Gardens Location, Alexandria | $42 | Experts will guide you through the blooming gardens and give historical insights — with traditional British afternoon tea to follow.
Friday, June 13
Miami Marlins vs. Washington Nationals | Friday, June 13-Sunday, June 15 | Times vary | Nationals Park | $17+ | Catch a Nats game this weekend with a performance by Nelly on Friday, dogs welcome on Saturday, and shirt giveaways on Sunday.
What’s your favorite beer? If it’s Coors, you’re not alone. Data shows that it’s the most popular beer in Virginia. (Visual Capitalist)
Trending
In case you missed it, Taylor Swift bought back the rights to all of her music. If you’re looking to celebrate, there’s a Taylor Swift Music Tribute taking over Reston Metro Plaza on Friday, July 4.
Mansion Monday
A red-brick Colonial with thoughtful touches in every corner of its 6,000+ sqft. That’s what awaits at this new listing in Alexandria’s North Ridge neighborhood. Wooden floors and marble counters combine for a timeless feel, with a home gym, spacious outdoor entertaining area, full bar, and bright interiors all coming together in one unique NOVA home.
Travel
Sorry, your Costco membership won’t get you past TSA. You’ll have to get your REAL ID in Virginia like the rest of us. But pick us up a rotisserie chicken if you’re already making a Costco run. (WHAS11)
Listen
Turn up the tunes — Spotify shared its predictions for 2025’s song of the summer, including tracks by Lorde, Lady Gaga, and Morgan Wallen. If you’d like to add some local flair to your playlist, we recommend catching some NOVA artists at a free summer concert series.
Bookmark this guide to have an adventure with the kiddos in your life (including some child-like fun for yourself). | Photo by @photo.by.rey
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.
All about the arts
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.
Educational activities
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.
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.
Sensory-friendly playgrounds
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.
The perfect athleisure tennis dress, available in summer colors like pink sorbet, iconic black, and heated red. Our favorite part: A built-in medium-support shelf bra and built-in shorts with a pocket.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.