Beltway Bambinos

(re) discover Washington DC through the eyes of your children

Not your typical kid gym

Need a place to escape the heat (or cold in the winter) and head indoors? Here are a couple of places that are sure to make your child happy and get some exercise when it’s too hot to be outside in the afternoon (or too cold in the winter). Most of these unique spaces offer camps, classes and birthday parties in addition to providing a space for your Bambinos to move. 

(Photo: Badlands)
Badlands Playspace– 5200 Randolph Rd. Rockville, MD 20852
Read about our fun there!

Scramble Indoor Play– 5412 Eisenhower Ave Alexandria, VA 22304
Scramble is the first European-style play center in Alexandria. Scramble offers incredible indoor play every day of the week, birthday parties Fri-Sun and a full program of summer camps for Elementary-age children this summer.

Elemeno– 709 8th St SE Washington, DC 20003
Formerly known as SkillZone. Parent coworking, SkillZone indoor play, early childhood STEM, family social events, kid-free time & private parties.

Magic Ground– 3100 14th St Northwest 3rd Level Washington, DC
See original review here.

Laugh Out Loud Stations Mega Fun Center– 6250 Greenbelt Rd. Greenbelt, MD 20770
CRAZY FUN Rides and AMAZING attractions all in one place to develop LOL Stations as the Best Indoor Theme Park and Birthday Party Place in the Washington metropolitan area, where the entire family can play together!! LaserTag, Challenge Course, Tumbler, Bumper Cars, Ball Blaster, Bouncers, 4-Level Playground, Himalaya, and much more!! Purchase a package or pay for single games.

Hyper Kidz!- 9309 Snowden River Parkway Columbia, MD 21046
Themed zones for kids ages 0-13. Other attractions include an interactive LED dance floor, laser light show, interactive screen games, bubble machine, glow-in-the-dark play, a concession stand, souvenir stand, and giant lite brite boards. Hyper Kidz encourages healthy and active social play.

(Photo: Nook)
Nook–  Nook Mosaic:Coming Summer 2018 & Nook Ballston Quarter:Coming Fall 2018
Nook is a play and learning space for the young, modern family. Not just a children’s play space, Nook is a blended play, work, and learning experience for the entire family.

Climb Zone-13200 Mid Atlantic Boulevard Suite 130 Laurel, MD 20708
Indoor rock climbing with individual walls, each with a theme. There are a few bounce houses, an area for kids 3 and under to play in, video games and a small cafe. Ages 2-5 are $12, 6 years and older $25. You can stay as long as you’d like. Outside food is permitted. You can have a birthday party here too. Put your harness on and climb aboard your favorite art whether it be Mt. Rushmore or the Alice in Wonderland themed wall, you’ll have a great time.

ZAVAZONE– 45685 Oakbrook Ct #110, Sterling, VA 20166 & 40 Southlawn Court Rockville, MD 20850
ZAVAZONE is an Indoor Adventure Park: a unique space dedicated to active fun for people from ages 5 to 105.  ZAVAZONE brings together ninja courses, ropes courses, trampolines, climbing challenges, zip lines, and more under ONE soaring roof.  It delivers a heart-pumping multi-action experience like no other.  Every visit to ZAVAZONE grants access to ALL of these exhilarating challenges, so you’re always free to create your very own active adventure. The state-of-the-art equipment is overseen by highly trained ZAVAZONE coaches who ensure safety while inspiring guests to make the leap or try a bold new move. All ZAVAZONE activities are included with admission.

Animated Child– 5167 Waterway Drive Montclair, VA 22025
Animated Child is an innovative enrichment center that encourages a child’s natural curiosity, independence and creativity. We engage children in every element of intelligence to highlight their unique way of learning. By exploring in which way a child is smart versus how smart they are, children are empowered to recognize ability within themselves. Great for ages 2-12. Open exploration times, enrichment classes, summer camps and birthday parties are available.

Sprout at Saffron – 3260 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201
The ultimate new business concept that combines your productivity (coworking), relaxation, fitness or yoga with your kids playing and learning.  Moms, dads and caregivers can catch up on work or relax in the cafe, take a fitness or yoga class while your kids are taken care of in a holistic and educational environment.  Classes vary from supervised open gym, music, ballerina classes and more! Classes are also offered for kids or adults.

Busy Bees– 11 Wisconsin Circle Bethesda, MD & 6110 D Arlington Blvd. Falls Church, VA 22044
An indoor play space where everything moves, spins or flies just for kids under 48″. $15 (or a pass) will get your kiddos inside, come and go as you please. Open 9-5 everyday. Complimentary coffee, tea and wifi. They also through amazing birthday parties.

Don’t forget these indoor spaces as well:

My Gym–5110 Ridgefield Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816
Kidville– 4825 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814
Gymboree– Various Locations

Kidville Bethesda keeps Bambinos wanting to go back for more {and more}

Kidville Bethesda offers award-winning gym, art, dance, music, preschool classes and summer camp for children aged newborn – five years old. Their customizable birthday parties are a blast for 1-8 years old and they even offer haircuts for kids of all ages. I brought my first child here for his first few haircuts; it was the perfect environment for an apprehensive first-timer. Kidville also allows you to try a trial class before committing to a series of classes, click here for more info. They are conveniently located in downtown Bethesda, sandwiched in between coffee shops and delicious restaurants at 4825 Bethesda Ave.

My three year old sampled a few classes and has left her wanting to go back at any dull moment we have. She loved the Big Muscle Workout and the Kidville Gymnasts classes. She was able to get acclimated with all of the colorful, fun equipment and meet other classmates before the class started. The classes began with a warm-up, followed by some strength and skills obstacles. She was constantly moving and had a smile on her face the whole time {you can watch your child from various windows} or leave to get that cup of joe if your child is old enough for one of their “drop-off” classes. The teachers are up-beat, get to know your child, professional and energetic.

You can browse their website by age to see the lengthy list of classes appropriate for your Bambinos. When you sign up for classes you also gain entry to the Playspace, which is like open gym time and typically has at least an hour window of time each day of the week if not more. Click here for a schedule of classes.

Snow Day presented by Arts on the Horizon + 4 ticket GIVEAWAY!!!


What: Snow Day presented by Arts on the Horizon

When: December 1-16 2017

Where: The Lab Theatre at Convergence (1819 N. Quaker Ln. Alexandria, VA 22302)

More shows at Atlas Performing Arts Center (1333 H St, NE Washington, DC 20002) December 17-19; 27-30, 2017 For information on tickets, click here.


One cold December morning, a young girl named Skip wakes up to find the entire neighborhood covered in a thick, dazzling blanket of white snow. A playful (if not a little mischievous) winter elf takes her on an adventure – showing her just how magical snow can be! Join Skip as she experiences all the excitement, joy, and wonder of her very first snow day. This nonverbal production features live music and lots of wintertime fun, just in time for the holiday season. Written and Directed by Rex Daugherty. 

Who: Best for children ages 2 – 6 and their families

Tickets are $9 and can be purchased here.

GIVEAWAY– 4 pack tickers to the December 9th at 11:30am showing. Like our Facebook page and Instagram page then comment on both sites with SNOW DAY for your chance to win, tag a friend for another chance to win! Winner announced Monday, Dec. 4.

Holiday shows, ballets and concerts in and around Washington, DC

Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker at Warner Theatre: Nov. 30-Dec. 24, 2017
DC’s perennial favorite! This celebrated production is set in historic Georgetown with George Washington and King George III among other historical figures. Join us again with family and friends or start a new holiday tradition with your loved ones. NEW! Super Value Performances: Wednesday December 6th at 7PM, Tuesday December 12th at 7PM, and Wednesday December 13th at 7PM. No seat higher than $53 (excluding suite seats)! (plus applicable service fee).

 

Offerings from The Washington National Cathedral

Messiah- G. F. Handel: Dec. 2 & 3, 2017
A beloved Christmas favorite featuring the Cathedral Choir.

Cathedral Choral Society: Joy of Christmas: Dec. 16 & 17, 2017
Celebrate the warm spirit of the season in a majestic setting. A well-loved Washington, D.C. holiday tradition, this concert includes Christmas favorites and a festive carol sing-along. The program will feature a newly commissioned carol by popular British composer Paul Mealor.

 

          (Photo: Washingtonian at Kennedy Center)

Offerings from The Kennedy Center

National Symphony Orchestra: A Holiday Pops! featuring Megan Hilty Dec. 7, 2017 at 7:00pm and Dec. 8, 2017 at 8:00pm
The National Symphony Orchestra, in collaboration with the USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore, is proud to present a free concert in honor of all service members and their families to celebrate the holiday season.

Merry TubaChristmas!: Dec. 11, 2017 at 6:00pm
This year marks the 44th anniversary of MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS!, founded by Harvey Phillips, in which hundreds of tuba, sousaphone, and euphonium players from around Washington, D.C., play traditional Christmas music. FREE performance through Millennium Stage

Washington National Opera: The Little Prince, a Holiday Family Opera:Dec. 14-17, 2017
All the joy and wonder of the classic illustrated storybook comes back to WNO! On his tiny home planet, a young boy begins a quest across the cosmos to find new companionship. Featuring a tuneful score by Oscar winner Rachel Portman, the opera also showcases the Domingo-Cafritz Young Artists and WNO Children’s Chorus.

National Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 14-17, 2017
Join the NSO, gifted singers, and a heavenly chorus for this holiday tradition! Experience all of the hope, redemption, and grace of Handel’s cherished Messiah in the festively decorated Concert Hall.

The Choral Arts Society of Washington presents: A Family Christmas: Dec. 16, 2017 at 1:00pm
The young and the young at heart will revel in the joy of the season as holiday favorites ring throughout the Concert Hall.

Christmas with Choral Arts: Dec. 17-24, 2017
Choral Arts celebrates the joys of the season in a delightful program of popular holiday standards and seasonal Christmas classics.

Messiah Sing-Along: Dec. 23, 2017 at 6:00pm
The Kennedy Center’s free Messiah Sing-Along, a family and community tradition since 1971, returns to the Concert Hall on Saturday evening, December 23, at 6 p.m. Ticket distribution begins at 4:30 p.m. in the Hall of Nations.

 

Offerings from Strathmore

Strathmore Children’s Chorus: Peace, Paz, Shalom: Dec. 10, 2017 at 4:00pm
Strathmore Children’s Chorus explores the idea that hearing and honoring diverse voices will help make peace in our world. This concert features music and texts from a wide range of perspectives, and shines a light on how song and story are powerful tools for creating peace and compassion. 

The Hip Hop Nutcracker: Dec. 12-13, 2017
This holiday mash-up for the whole family is back by popular demand! The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score through explosive hip-hop choreography. A dozen all-star dancers, an on-stage DJ, and an electric violinist bring the traditional Nutcracker story to life in contemporary New York City.

A Candlelight Christmas: Dec. 15, 2017 at 8:00pm
It’s not Christmas without The Washington Chorus! Featuring brass, organ, sing-alongs, and the magnificent candlelight processional, A Candlelight Christmas includes audience favorites such as The Dream Isaiah Saw, Hallelujah Chorus, and more.

Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 16 & 17, 2017
No holiday celebration is complete without a performance of Handel’s uplifting oratorio Messiah, a work that has delighted and inspired audiences worldwide since its premiere in 1741. The perennial favorite features such timeless highlights as “And the Glory of the Lord” and the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Messiah will once again infuse audiences with its beauty in a performance by the acclaimed National Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorale and world-class soloists, led by conductor Stan Engebretson.

 

More shows in and around Washington, DC at various locations:

Frosty the Snowman at Adventure Theatre: Nov. 17-Dec. 31, 2017
Do you want to build a snow man? How about watching him spring to life in front of you for one day of adventures before he melts away? In this merry wintertime romp, chock-full of chuckles and comic antics, Frosty dances into the hearts of kids and adults alike- even the heart of one near-sighted cop- through his uproarious antics.

The Nutcracker on Strings Nov. 24-Dec. 31, 2017 & Tiny Tots: Nutcracker Fantasy Dec. 12-31, 2017 at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre: Nov. 28-Dec. 31, 2017
Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Originally conceived by Michael Baron, this music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Dickens’s Yuletide classic. Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returns to play Ebenezer Scrooge. This annual production has been a Washington tradition for more than 35 years. Recommended for ages 5 and older.

Seasons of Light at Discovery Theatre: Dec. 1-21, 2017
Join in the annual celebration of seasonal holidays from around the world. The history and customs of Diwali (Devali), Chanukah, Las Posadas, Ramadan, Sankta Lucia Day, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice make for an amazing interactive event that bridges communities and cultures. Back for its 19th season, this signature Discovery Theater show sells out early, so get your tickets now!

Snow Day presented by Arts on the Horizon:Dec. 1-16, 2017
One cold December morning, a young girl named Skip wakes up to find the entire neighborhood covered in a thick, dazzling blanket of white snow. A playful (if not a little mischievous) winter elf takes her on an adventure – showing her just how magical snow can be! Join Skip as she experiences all the excitement, joy, and wonder of her very first snow day. This nonverbal production features live music and lots of wintertime fun, just in time for the holiday season. Best for ages 2-6.

Hansel & Gretel at Synetic Theatre: Dec. 1-23, 2017
During the bustle of holiday crowds, Gretel tries to keep her brother, Hansel, out of trouble while their unengaged babysitter leaves Gretel to fend for them both. As Hansel embarks on his own wonder-filled exploration of his everyday surroundings, he and his sister fall into a magical realm that takes them far away from home. In this wordless production, the well-beloved Grimm fairy tale embraces the fantastical through the eyes of those who see the world through a different lens.

Madeline’s Christmas presented by Creative Cauldron: Dec. 1-23, 2017
She’s Back!!  After a sold out run at the Cauldron in 2014, we welcome back everyone’s favorite precocious little Parisian.  “In an old house in Paris, covered in vines, lived 12 little girls in two straight lines.”  And with that familiar phrase, author, illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans sets in motion the adventures of the brave and resourceful Madeline! In this musical adaptation, Madeline’s schoolmates and tutor are all sick in bed on Christmas Eve, unable to go home to be with their families.  So, it’s Madeline to the rescue!  And with the help of a magical rug merchant she takes her friends on a Christmas journey they will never forget.                                                      

Holiday Sing-A-Long at Wolf Trap: Dec. 2, 2017 at 4:00pm
Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap’s 2017 Holiday Sing-A-Long! This musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with local choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area. Wolf Trap will be participating in Toys for Tots by collecting new, unwrapped toys at the entrance to the Filene Center before the Sing-A-Long. Donations are voluntary and not required. Admission is free and no tickets are necessary. Parking is free but limited so please plan on arriving early. Bring a candle and join the tradition of exiting the Filene Center with a candlelight processional during the last verse of “Silent Night.” There will also be a ‘Jing-A-Long’ during the singing of Jingle Bells so remember to bring a bell and your holiday cheer!

Maryland Youth Ballet presents Mini-Nutcracker: Dec. 9 & 10, 2017
SOLD OUT

The Christmas Revels: A French-Canadian Celebration of the Winter Solstice: Dec. 6-17, 2017

12th Annual Holiday Sing-A-Long at Atlas Performing Arts Center: Dec. 10, 2017 at 4:30pm & 7:00pm
Capital City Symphony, Congressional Chorus, and American Youth Chorus perform a variety of holiday favorites in this perennially loved performance that is fun for the entire family. Audience members are encouraged to join in the singing of classics like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Continue the celebration after the concert with complimentary cookies and good cheer in our Kogod Lobby.

Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Atlas Performing Arts Center: Dec. 15-30, 2017
 This fun, family-friendly performance will have you stomping your feet and clapping your hands to energetic beats from Step Afrika! and special guest, DJ Frosty the Snowman. Over the last six years, this internationally-renowned percussive dance company has created a contemporary holiday tradition at the Atlas, featuring friendly, furry characters, pre-show instrument-making workshops, photo ops, and even a dance party. Why celebrate the holidays sitting still when you can step with Step Afrika! Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is suited to adults and kids age four and up. Join us in the lobby 30 minutes before show time to decorate your own musical instrument so you can make music with Step Afrika! during the performance.

Your guide to getting outdoors this holiday season in and around Washington, DC

Get outdoors and enjoy the chill of the air while sipping a good cup of joe and hot cocoa for the Bambino(s). Here are some festive places to visit all while being outside.

holiday-pollinationstation2

(Photo: Seasons Greenings at The U.S. Botanic Gardens)

 

Outdoor Ice Rinks: 

HolidayFunCanal Park Ice Rink– 202 M Street, SE Washington, DC 20003

Tyson’s Corner Center Ice Rink– 1961 Chain Bridge Rd., McLean, VA 22102

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink– National Mall at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW

Washington Harbour Ice Rink– 3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007                                                                                      (Photo: DesignMom.com)

Silver Spring Veteran’s Plaza Ice Rink– 8523 Fenton St., Silver Spring, MD 20910

Rockville Town Square Ice Rink– 131 Gibbs St., Rockville, MD 20850

Pentagon Row– 1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202

christmas_white_house_11
(Photo: Funzug)

Outdoor Festivities:

National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse– The National Mall
The National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is the beginning of three weeks of celebration in holiday music in the nation’s capital. Musical groups from Washington D.C. and across the country provide holiday entertainment to the countless visitors for a one of a kind holiday experience set against the backdrop of the National Christmas Tree. Nov. 30-Jan.1

Christmas at Mount Vernon– 3200 Mt Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mt Vernon, VA 22121
The holidays are full of delight at George Washington’s estate. Join for candlelight tours of the Mansion, a dazzling display of fireworks set to Christmas music, dancing, fire-side caroling, Aladdin the Christmas camel, and so much more! Nov. 24-Jan. 6.

Holidays on the Harbor– 165 Waterfront St. National Harbor, MD 20745
Watch holiday movies on Saturdays at 2:00pm. Be sure and warm up inside the Gaylord Resort, see the hanging tree and Christmas Village and then bundle up to check out ICE!. Get your tickets in advance though.

Holly Trolley Fest at National Capital Trolley Museum– 1313 Bonifant Rd Colesville, MD 20905
Celebrate the season with toy trains and Santa aboard the streetcars from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 2-3, 9-10, 16-17 and 23

Seasons Greenings at The U.S. Botanic Gardens– 100 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20001
Season’s Greenings opens on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23- Jan. 1. The best times to visit Season’s Greenings are weekdays early in December or on select Tuesday and Thursday evenings in December when the Conservatory is open until 8 p.m. with live seasonal music. Aside from these extended holiday hours, the Conservatory is open every day of the year, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., free of charge.

40th Annual Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple– 9900 Stoneybrook Dr Kensington, MD 20895
As one of the D.C. area’s great community traditions, the Festival features free performances nightly in the comfortable, state-of-the-art theater located in the Visitors’ Center while the Temple grounds glow with 650,000 lights. Begins Nov. 30 and lasts through Dec. 31 from 10:00am-10:00pm.

Zoo Lights at The National Zoo– 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
Join the thousands of visitors who make ZooLights a part of their annual holiday tradition. ZooLights includes live music performances, tasty winter treats, and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. More than 500,000 environmentally-friendly LED lights transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland. New this year will be a Glow Zone in addition to dazzling light shows set to music, snow-less tubing, trackless train and ride the carousel! Nov. 24-Jan. 1 (exception: Dec. 24, 25 and 31) hours are 5:00pm-9:00pm.

Amazing Farm Fun at Ticonderoga- 26469 Ticonderoga Road, Chantilly, Va 20152
Festival of Lights Hayride & Walk Nights 5:00pm-9:30pm.  The new seasonal addition offers a warm inviting family atmosphere to plan a full evening of amazing fun. Visitors will be able to take a hayride or walk to view this nighttime adventure and enjoy some hot chocolate with S’mores around a bonfire(Weather permitting), Drinks warm and cold, snacks, and marshmallows or  S’more kits will be available and sold at the Farm Market. Proceeds fund preservation and development of the Botanic Garden. Hayrides will be 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Walk will be 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Hayrides time slots must be Pre-Purchased Tickets on line. Please arrive for hayrides 15 minutes in advance. Walk will be the option of Pre-Purchase or walk in. Walk in’s are welcome and will be placed in the next available start time. Rain or Snow. Under Age 2 free.

Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens– 1800 Glenallan Ave Wheaton, MD 20902
Step into a magical winter wonderland illuminated with more than one million dazzling colorful lights shaped into hand-crafted, original art forms of flowers, animals and other natural elements. Stroll from garden to garden enjoying twinkling tree forms, fountains, sparkling snowflakes overhead and more. Nov. 24-Jan.1 (closed Dec. 24 & 25) Hours and prices vary by night.

Bulls Run Festival of Lights- 7700 Bull Run Dr Centreville, VA 20121
Experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car; turn out your headlights and just follow the magical glow. After viewing the lights, bring your family and friends to the holiday village to enjoy rides, refreshments, and of course, photos with Santa Claus. The festival happens annually at Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Virginia. Nov. 22-Jan.7 hours and prices vary depending on the day.

Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens– 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct Vienna, VA 22182
Bring the family to enjoy the magical Winter Walk of lights in Vienna, Virginia. The garden is transformed into a half-mile, animated walk of lights. Revisit perennial favorites such as the Lakeside Lights, the Fountain of Lights, and the Holiday Nature Walk – and look for new displays each year. Put on your walking shoes and bring the family to experience a Northern Virginia festive tradition. Round out your visit by roasting marshmallows, and sipping on hot beverages by the fire. (Available for purchase at Light Refreshments). Nov. 10-Jan. 7 from 5:30pm-10:00pm.

Festival of Lights at Watkins Regional Park– 301 Watkins Park Drive (Route 193) Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Bring a little twinkle to your holidays. Don’t miss this spectacular holiday drive-through event featuring more than one million twinkling lights! This year’s Festival features fun new displays. Nov. 24- Jan. 1 from 5-9:30pm. $10 car/van, free on Christmas.

Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park– 11950 Clopper Rd., Gaithersburg, MD.20878
The wondrous display of lights at Seneca Creek State Park will be open nightly Nov. 24 through Dec. 31. (closed on Dec. 25). The 3.5 mile drive through the enchanted setting of Seneca Creek State Park takes you past more than 380 illuminated displays and 65 animated vignettes that light up the night. Themed areas include Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Victorian Village, the North Pole, and much more.