Ah, summer. The perfect time to be outside, enjoy the sun, and have a more flexible schedule. As a school community that values family time, leisure, and living life to its fullest, we offer the following inspiration for unique family fun in Northern Virginia! Most of them work best for ages 2-14.
1. Yards Park (Navy Yard)The water feature in Yards Park is worth the trek downtown! A huge wading pool (with a waterfall!) and plenty of green space and seating nearby make it an enjoyable afternoon for all. There are a ton of great food options close by (including a waterfront pizza shop). With plenty of trails along the river if you’re looking to stretch your legs, it would be a great place to bring bikes!
Cost: Free!
2. Great Country Farm (Bluemont, VA)In Bluemont, VA, Great Country Farm is a beautiful place to bring a picnic and stay all day. There are playgrounds (for all ages!) including a couple of massive jumping blobs, the chance to see and interact with farm animals, cow pie putt putt, and a fishing pond. Ample shady areas and seating for picnics abound!
Cost: $10 for kids; $12 for 18 and older (Children 2 and under are free!)
3. Chessie’s Big Backyard (Alexandria, VA)One blogger dubbed this park her “favorite place to take kids in Northern Virginia” and if you visit, you’ll see why! Completely free, there is a nature trail, playgrounds, and an epic splash park. While you’re out that way, take a pit stop in beautiful Old Town Alexandria. The waterfront promenade makes for a lovely walk, and there’s plenty of food and ice cream stops.
Cost: Free (except for the carousel, which is $3)
4. Frying Pan Farm Park (Herndon, VA)An old classic for a reason, Frying Pan Farm Park is a great option for summer! Lots of parking, free admission, and adorable farm animals—what more could you want?! Visit their website for special events!
Cost: Free
5. Clemyjontri Park (McLean, VA)Another playground makes the list because this one is nearly two acres and wheelchair accessible. There is even a maze!
Cost: Free
6. Museums galore!We live mere miles from the Smithsonian museums! The National Zoo is bound to be a popular option, and there are so many more great museums downtown, perfect for mega-hot or super rainy days. The National Building Museum and the National Children’s Museum are better for a younger set, while the National Museum of Natural History is a hit for kids of all ages. My advice: Take the Metro! It adds a bunch of fun to the adventure and saves you the hassle of finding parking.
Cost: Free (unless you Metro!)