Beltway Bambinos

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

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

Family Fun at The National Gallery of Art

All weekend long events

Pumpkin Chunkin at Great Country Farms 9:00am-5:00pm both Saturday & Sunday
Bring your leftover jack-o-lantern to our smashin’ stations and let it fly! The Silo Drop and the Zip Wire Sploosh let you do the smashin’ yourself or bring your pumpkin to the Pumpkin Drop Zone and add it to our upside down “fireworks display” as the pumpkins are dropped from a 40ft lift. You will be sure to love giving your pumpkin one final ride. What happens to all those smashed pumpkins?… the pigs and cows love to eat them and we compost the rest.

Tricks & Treats Show at Capital City Circus 7:00pm on Saturday & 4:00pm on Sunday
See the impressive Capital City Circus show. Take advantage of two chances to watch Capitol City Circus School staff take the stage for a performance that will be Out of This World! The Saturday show also includes a family-friendly celebration of fall, plus a chance to sample Cap City Circus’s class offerings! See details below.

Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure! at the Kennedy Center through Sunday

She Persisted at Adventure Theatre through Sunday

Friday

5:30pm-7:30pm: Candy Sushi Making at Red Panda Art Studio
Halloween Candy Overload? No problem! Transform your candy into something new by making candy sushi. This is also a great opportunity to run off extra energy in our play space during movement games! This workshop includes pizza dinner.

Saturday

9:00am: Free Morning Yoga at The Yards
The Yards, D.C.’s ultimate neighborhood to live, shop, dine, and relax, is inviting guests to kick off their day with a rejuvenating outdoor yoga class in partnership with LUMA, a premier Yoga and wellness studio coming soon to the neighborhood. Beginners and seasoned yogis alike are invited to grab their mats and water bottles and head over to The Yards Park and enjoy a free, guided class led by yoga and meditation instructor, Calm with Carlyn. Attendees will have the chance to become a founding LUMA member as well as a chance to win a surprise giveaway to lucky yogis, so make sure you come to the event ready to win!

10:00am-3:00pm: Family Fun at The National Gallery of Art
Spend the morning immersed in art. Begin at 10am for Storytime, followed by Sketching Lab, Kids Play Space and Drop-in Art Making.

10:30am-3:00pm: Open Studio Art Making at Hirshhorn
Discover fresh opportunities for artistic expression every weekend in November at Open Studio! Delve into the creative world of artist Mark Bradford and his masterpiece Pickett’s Charge, as we explore his use of color, texture, and materials. Collaborate in the creation of a large-scale artwork inspired by Bradford’s process, or craft your own mixed-media piece to take home. Each week will introduce new ideas and creative challenges! This week, kids will explore telling a story through mixed media (combining materials such as paper, rope, images, to create a visual narrative)! 

2:00pm-6:00pm: Adams Morgan Porchfest
With over 100 bands, this event will showcase some of DC’s best local musical talent featuring nearly every musical genre, including classic rock, funk, go-go, hip-hop, reggae, blue grass, classical, and pop. Twenty-five porches, business patios, parks, and the closed 18th Street will become stages for the day, drawing music-lovers from around the region into the tree-lined streets and small businesses of Adams Morgan.

4:00pm-7:00pm: Día de los Muertos at The Wharf
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with your family and friends at The Wharf. Sip on Modelo while you discover beautifully decorated altars honoring loved ones, listen to live music by the Latin Celtic band La Unica, and light up the night during the community lantern procession. The family-friendly afternoon will include free activities for the kids including face painting, sugar skull decorating, and more. Don’t forget to dress the part by wearing colorful colors, skulls, and flowers!

5:00pm-8:30pm: El Día de los Muertos at National Portrait Gallery
Join us for our annual celebration of el Día de los Muertos—one of the National Portrait Gallery’s biggest events of the year—with live music, Mexican folk-dance performances, workshops, and a variety of activities for all ages. Create calaveras and papel picado to decorate the community altar, get your face painted to look like la Catrina, and more! Take the celebration to the streets as you witness the live video mapping projection by artists MasPaz and Guache. The artists will create their work live from the Martin Luther King Jr. Library, projected onto the G and 9th street façade.

Looking ahead:

Día de los Muertos at The Kennedy Center: November 4 at 7:30pm
Celebrate the Mexican holiday, el día de los muertos, the day of the dead, with a concert dedicated to music by Mexican composers, conducted by NOW’s Artistic Director Alejandro Hernandez-Valdez, a native of Guadalajara, Mexico.

SIX at National Theatre : November 12–December 1 
From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

This weekend has much to offer those wanting to celebrate fall and Halloween! It is the final weekend of apple picking at Great Country Farms, pair it with the corn maze and fall harvest festival.

Saturday

10:00am-3:00pm: Kreeger Museum Open House
Join this family-friendly celebration of art, music, and architecture! This event is free and open to all with live jazz music and art-making activities. Food trucks will be selling refreshments for purchase. Entrance to the Museum will be free of charge and our permanent collection will be on view. Free parking is available at The Field School, located next door at 2301 Foxhall Road NW. Picnic blankets are welcome in the Sculpture Garden. Click link about to see schedule of events.

10:00am-12:00pm: Trick or Treat at Tudor Place
Wear your Halloween costume and search for treats (not tricks) in every corner of the garden. Enjoy crafts, activities and period games amid lovely autumn plant life. This outdoor event will take place rain or shine.

10:00am-3:00pm: Air & Scare at Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Join us for our annual Halloween event at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to explore the spooky side of air and space. This year, the event will take place both inside and outside at the Museum.

11:30am-3:00pm: Dia de Los Muertos at Smithsonian American Art Museum
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with the Smithsonian American Art Museum! Bring the whole family to see exciting live performances, including traditional Mexican folk dance by Corazon Folklorico, a mariachi performance by Mariachi Aguila DC, and a showcase of different Latin American music genres and dances with Sol y Rumba. Attendees ages 12 and younger can enjoy face painting throughout the day, while visitors of all ages can participate in hands-on craft activities. Round out the day by exploring the museum’s collection with our Día de los Muertos-themed scavenger hunt.

11:30am AND 1:00pm: Family Workshop: Something Wicked: Supernatural Shakespeare at Folger Shakespeare Library
Get spooky with Shakespeare’s ghosts and witches. Join the Folger on fun escapades as we explore the play’s hurly-burly elements! Costumes not required but welcomed!

12:30pm-3:00pm: Little Goblins Parade
All boys and ghouls are invited for the 13th edition of this beloved Halloween celebration! Parade from Ross Elementary down 17th Street, trick or treating at the stores along the way, and finish at Stead Park for a Halloween party! There will be music, candy, photo ops, games, giveaways, and more. Costumes encouraged. Free! RSVP to link above.

1:00pm-4:00pm: Glen Echo Fall Frolic
Join for some Halloween fun at Glen Echo Park! Activities include decorating a Trick-or-Treat bag and other crafts, a festive fall photo-op (say that 10 times!), a costume contest (will you win for “Most Spooky,” “Most Creative,” or “Best Group?”), and Trick-or-Treating at our resident art studios and galleries. We focus on the arts-y & crafts-y more than the scary, but we love to see all the costumes – even the scary ones!

1:00pm-4:00pm: Fall Festival & Bluegrass Jamboree
The event will be held in Dupont Circle Park. The Fall Festival & Bluegrass Jamboree will feature live bluegrass by Shannon Leigh and the Good Bygones, a pumpkin patch where participants can decorate their pumpkins, games such as cornhole in the grassy areas of the Circle, and a costume contest for pets, kids, and adults with prizes.

2:00pm-6:00pm: Trick or Treat at Mount Vernon
Celebrate Halloween with 18th-century entertainment and activities. Collect candy in your special Mount Vernon treat bag around the historic grounds. Watch Halloween-themed Punch & Judy shows at 3pm & 4:30pm. See an 18th-century bake oven demonstration with Half Crown Bakehouse on the 12-acre field. Sample a rusk (twice-baked bread pieces) with chocolate cream from a recipe dating back to the 1760s and using American Heritage Chocolate. And more!

Sunday

10:00am-5:00pm: Día de los Muertos at National Museum of the American Indian
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a time for commemorating our ancestors. Rather than a period of mourning, it is an occasion for celebrating with family—both living and dead—and honoring the cycle of life.

10:00am-2:00pm: Van Ness Spooktacular
Everyone’s favorite kid-friendly Halloween event is returning to Forest Hills Playground this year. Parents and kids of all ages are invited to dress in their favorite costumes and gather at Forest Hills Playground for spooky-inspired activities followed by Trick or Treating at small businesses along Connecticut Ave in Wakefield, Forest Hills and Van Ness from 12:30pm-2pm.

12:00pm-3:00pm: Halloween at the Harbor
Enjoy trick-or-treating, a pumpkin carving competition, pet pawrade and more. This family-friendly party is sure to be a wicked good time!

2:00pm AND 4:00pm: NSO Family Concert: Halloween Spooktacular
An annual tradition! The Concert Hall transforms into a ghostly sight when ghoulishly attired National Symphony Orchestra musicians celebrate Halloween with fa-boo-lous new works and spooky old classics.

2:00pm: 28th Annual Del Ray Halloween Parade
One of Del Ray’s favorite traditions takes place along Mount Vernon Avenue, beginning at E. Bellefonte Avenue. Children, pets, and decorated strollers are invited to march and show off their costumes! This parade ends with live music and an award presentation at the Mount Vernon Rec Center field. This hometown favorite event is a must-see!

Theatre

Winnie the Pooh at Imagination Stage through Oct. 27

Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure! at the Kennedy Center through Nov. 3

She Persisted at Adventure Theatre through Nov. 3

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

Looking for exciting things to do in Washington, DC this weekend? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the nation’s capital is packed with events for everyone. From cultural festivals to live music, outdoor markets, and family-friendly activities, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Get ready to explore the best of what DC has to offer, and make the most of your weekend with this post including can’t-miss happenings around the city!

Colonial Market & Fair at Mount Vernon

All weekend

Move over pandas there’s a new tiger in town- Daniel Tiger! Based on the award-winning PBS KIDS television series Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, created by Fred Rogers Productions, the exhibit immerses young learners in the adventures of 4-year-old Daniel Tiger as he learns about recognizing and communicating his emotions. The exhibit at The National Children’s Museum includes hands-on activities that foster young learners’ understanding of their feelings and how to express themselves through collaboration, creativity, and interactive play. Plan your visit to experience Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit, on display in the Visiting Exhibit Hall from September 14, 2024 to January 5, 2025.

Maryland Renaissance Festival is in full swing with turkey legs and jousting. The festival offers plenty of family-friendly activities, including interactive shows, games, and rides designed for younger visitors. There are puppet shows, storytelling, and even medieval carnival games like archery and axe throwing. The festival features a wide variety of performances, including jousting tournaments, live theater, musical acts, comedy shows, and dance performances. Many of the entertainers interact with the audience, and you’ll find plenty of costumed characters roaming the grounds, adding to the festive atmosphere. The festival boasts a large marketplace featuring more than 140 artisans selling handmade goods, including jewelry, clothing, leather goods, pottery, swords, and other medieval-themed items. It’s a great place to pick up unique, one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Don’t forget to wear a costume!

Washington Ukranian Festival takes place on the grounds of St. Andrews Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring. A portion of the proceeds is for humanitarian aid to Ukraine. On Saturday evening plan to be entertained by a live concert with artists from Ukraine and Canada. In addition a Ukrainian Dance troupe will entertain for two days. Enjoy Ukrainian artists and dancers, crafts, children’s activities, delicious Ukrainian food, and a Kozak beer garden.

Hecho en México at National Museum of the American Indian
Hecho en México (Made in Mexico) refers to the official classification that identifies products that are uniquely made in Mexico. Mexican artisans, including Pedro Ortega Lozano, known for his work in papel picado; Óscar Becerra-Mora, who creates alebrije sculptures; and Cilau Valadez, who specializes in the Huichol art of yarn painting all join us to demonstrate their creative practices.

22nd Annual Alexandria Old Town Art Festival takes place in John Carlyle Square. Alexandria is recognized as one of the country’s premier artistic hubs. All artwork is juried, which provides a higher level of quality, diversity and creativity of art on display, exemplifying the gifted artists in regions from all over the country. The show is rated as one of the top 100 art shows in Sunshine Artist Magazine.

Friday

6:30pm-10:00pm: Drive-in Movie at Union Market: Star Wars: The Force Awakens 
The Drive-In at Union Market is back for the 12th season! It’s the perfect blend of movies and munchies with amazing concessions. From street food to Michelin-starred fine dining, experience it all at Union Market District. Bring your chairs and blankets for a cozy picnic-style setup in front of The Market. No tickets are needed to watch on Neal Place. See you there!

Saturday

9:00am-5:00pm: Colonial Market & Fair at Mount Vernon
Step back in time at Colonial Market & Fair, featuring food and wares made by colonial artisans. Take in the sights and sounds of the marketplace on Mount Vernon’s 12-acre field. Chat with colonial artisans selling traditional handcrafted food and wares. Hear live music from the colonial era. Play 18th-century games on the bowling green. Watch as expert artisans demonstrate period crafting techniques.

9:30am-11:30am: Teddy Bear Clinic at National Museum of Health and Medicine
Bring your favorite stuffed friend and explore the Teddy Bear Clinic at the National Museum of Health and Medicine with activities and crafts designed to highlight the body, physical fitness, and healthy habits. This family program is recommended for children in PreK-2nd grade.

10:00am-4:00pm: Artisans Market at Blackrock Center for the Arts
Featuring local crafts, art, and handmade goods. This festive outdoor event is a celebration of local creativity and craftsmanship, providing an opportunity for community members to explore and support talented artisans from the region. Later that evening, BlackRock will host the Opening Reception for Colores: A Survey of Latine Art. The exhibition celebrates Latine artistry, highlighting the diverse voices and perspectives from across the community. The reception will offer a chance to meet the artists, view their stunning works, and enjoy live entertainment, setting the tone for a season of cultural appreciation and artistic excellence. 

10:30am-3:30pm: Family Day at Library of Congress: Hispanic Heritage Month
Make your own book inspired by Latin American cartoneras and meet staff from the Library’s Hispanic Division. Each Family Day includes a creative activity, connections to Library of Congress collections, a chance to talk to staff experts, and a guide to using Library resources at home.

11:00am-5:00pm: Celebrate Petworth
Celebrate Petworth is a free neighborhood festival organized by and for the residents of Petworth—celebrating the creativity, diversity, culture, and people of Petworth and its surrounding neighborhoods.

11:30am-4:00pm: Holiday Stamps Family Festival at the National Postal Museum
The winter holidays have come to the Museum early this year! Come and meet Guest Artist Katie Kirk in person while we celebrate the new 2024 Christmas stamps issued by the Postal Service. There will be crafts, games, and all sorts of winter holiday family fun. Registration is not required. Prior to the start of the Holiday Stamps Family Festival, the National Postal Museum will host the First Day of Issue ceremonies for the two 2024 Christmas stamps.

Sunday

9:00am-5:00pm: Colonial Market & Fair at Mount Vernon
Step back in time at Colonial Market & Fair, featuring food and wares made by colonial artisans. Take in the sights and sounds of the marketplace on Mount Vernon’s 12-acre field. Chat with colonial artisans selling traditional handcrafted food and wares. Hear live music from the colonial era. Play 18th-century games on the bowling green. Watch as expert artisans demonstrate period crafting techniques.

Save the Date
September 21 and 22: Mo @ the NSO
With the help of the National Symphony Orchestra and all-star guests, New York Times best-selling author/illustrator Mo Willems introduces fun musical ideas, explores big emotions, and invites viewers to listen, play, and create in this world premiere concert for families.

September 21 from 10am-3pm: Homecoming at President Lincoln’s Cottage
Enjoy the grounds as the Lincolns did with a full day of family fun at Homecoming! During the Civil War, the Lincoln family called the Cottage home. Tad Lincoln spent three summers of his childhood exploring the grounds of the Soldiers’ Home as well as the rooms of the Cottage. Here he played with friends, soldiers, animals, as well as his own family. You can expect arts & crafts, storytelling, pony rides & a petting zoo, enjoy a picnic from food trucks, music and more.

September 21 from 12pm-7pm: H Street Festival
H Street Festival is one of the most anticipated and highly attended single day festivals in Washington D.C.  The festival is 12 blocks long and has 15 staging areas that are diversely themed and programmed to target the different segments of audiences.  The staging areas feature music of different genres, dance, youth based performances, interactive children’s program, fashion, heritage arts, poetry and many more.

September 27-28: Art All Night
With activations in all 8 wards, there is more to explore than ever before. Join your favorite artists and local businesses and discover new ones as we come together to celebrate the District of Columbia. Scroll down to explore each neighborhood’s activation!

September 28-29: Fiesta DC
This two-day extravaganza transforms Washington, DC into a global fiesta celebrating latino cultures. Savor authentic and diverse Latin American cuisine, lose yourself in the infectious rhythms of live music and dance performances, and explore a marketplace brimming with handcrafted artisan creations. Fiesta DC is a celebration for all ages, offering engaging activities and fostering a spirit of community and cultural exchange.

October 7 from 11am-4pm: Chuseok Family Festival
Celebrate Chuseok, Korean Thanksgiving Day, with NMAA! Learn about both past and current traditions of one of the biggest holidays in South Korea. Take pictures in traditional Korean clothing known as hanbok and view a charye table display, which is a traditional feast prepared for a family’s ancestors. Enjoy special performances, food talks, programming from local community groups, and more! This event is co-presented by the Korean Cultural Center of Washington, DC, and Onjium.

Recent Posts
Ultimate Guide to Indoor Fun
Neighborhood Guides

Sunflower Fields to Visit Near Washington, DC

Summer in Washington, DC, brings an array of outdoor activities, but one of the most stunning ways to soak up the season’s beauty is by visiting sunflower fields. Sunflower fields around Washington, DC, offer a perfect summer outing for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to bask in the beauty of these cheerful blooms. Each spot provides its own unique experience, from expansive fields to interactive farm fun. So grab your camera, pack a picnic, and head out to enjoy the sunflower magic this summer. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s your guide to the best sunflower spots around Washington, DC this summer.

1. McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area

Located just about 30 miles west of DC, the McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area in Poolesville, Maryland, is a must-visit for sunflower enthusiasts. Each summer, the fields are transformed into a sea of bright yellow sunflowers, stretching as far as the eye can see. The area is known for its expansive sunflower fields, which are a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike. The sunflowers typically bloom from mid-July through early August, so plan your visit accordingly to catch them at their peak.

2. Butler’s Orchard

A bit closer to the city, Butler’s Orchard in Germantown, Maryland, offers a charming sunflower experience. This family-owned farm has been growing sunflowers for several years and opens its fields to the public during peak bloom. In addition to sunflowers, Butler’s Orchard hosts various family-friendly activities throughout the summer, including farm tours and pick-your-own produce events. The sunflower fields are usually open from late July through August, making it a great spot for a summer day trip.

3. The Sunflower Farm at Great Country Farms

For a more interactive experience, head to Great Country Farms in Bluemont, Virginia. Known for its agricultural adventures, this farm features a beautiful sunflower field that typically opens in late July. The farm offers various activities like hayrides, a petting zoo, and pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, making it a fun destination for the whole family.

4. Fields of Sunflowers at Burnside Farms

Located in Nokesville, Virginia, Burnside Farms is renowned for its impressive sunflower displays. Their sunflower festival, usually held in late July through August, is a highlight of the season. The farm hosts a variety of sunflowers, including different colors and sizes, providing a diverse and picturesque experience. With additional activities like a maze and food vendors, it’s a great spot for a day out with the family.

5. Historic Whitehall Farm

A bit of a hidden gem, Historic Whitehall Farm in Clinton, Maryland, offers a more tranquil sunflower experience. This smaller farm opens its fields to visitors during peak bloom, typically in late July. It’s an excellent spot for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature, away from the hustle and bustle.

Tips:

  • Check their website or social media for visiting hours and sunflower bloom updates.
  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds on weekends.
  • It’s a good idea to bring cash or check for entrance fees, as some smaller farms don’t accept cards.
  • Bring your camera for some memorable family photos.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as there’s a lot of ground to cover.
  • Pack some snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring.
  • Arrive early to make the most of your visit and enjoy a less crowded experience.
  • Bring sun protection and stay hydrated as you explore the fields.

A Few Farms Further Away to Consider:
Gold Petal Farms: A picture-perfect flower field season opens with 100% pick-your-own flower fields! 7 acres of flowers to explore and select from with beautiful flower vistas to take unique and beautiful portraits along with a wealth of nature photography opportunities.
The Sunflower Garden
Misty Meadow Farm Creamery: Reader recommended with animals, ice cream and activities!
Emily’s Produce: You-pick fields, ice cream, market and more, happens to be on the way to the beach!
Clear Meadow Farms
Rocky Point Creamery: Ice cream + sunflowers. The even better part is 100% of proceeds from the sunflowers go to St. Jude.

Related Posts:
Best Ice Cream in and around Washington, DC
Indoor/Outdoor summer toys
Water toys that are a summer must have!
Summer bucket list
Device free road trips and flights
Pick your own fruits and vegetables

9 Indoor & Outdoor Waterparks Near Washington, DC for Families

As the summer sun reaches its peak, families in and around Washington, DC are on the lookout for thrilling indoor and outdoor adventures to beat the heat. Fortunately, the region boasts a variety of fantastic waterparks that promise excitement and refreshment for all ages. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding slides, lazy river relaxation, or splash zones for little ones, these outdoor waterparks have something for everyone. Let’s dive in! Here’s a guide to 9 indoor and outdoor waterparks near DC where families can splash, slide, and have a blast!

Great Wolf Lodge– Williamsburg

1. Great Wolf Lodge (Williamsburg, VA)

Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg is a favorite for families with its extensive indoor water park featuring water slides, wave pools, and interactive play areas like Fort Mackenzie. The resort also offers themed rooms, dining options, and additional attractions like mini-golf and a ropes course. This is a win-win because you can pair this trip with learning the history of Williamsburg. In addition, 15 minutes away is Busch Gardens Theme Park.

2. Volcano Island Waterpark (Sterling, VA)

Just a short drive from DC in Sterling, Volcano Island Waterpark is part of the Algonkian Regional Park, offering an exciting mix of water attractions. From the towering slides to the interactive splash zones and lazy river, there’s no shortage of ways to stay cool and have fun. The park’s Hawaiian theme adds to the adventure, making it a memorable destination for families seeking a tropical escape close to home.

3. Indoor & Outdoor Water Park at Massanutten (Massanutten, VA)

Massanutten Resort offers a smaller but enjoyable indoor water park experience separate from its larger outdoor park. It includes water slides, a lazy river, and play areas suitable for younger children. Highlights include the FlowRider, tube slides, a lazy river, and a children’s play area. At the outdoor waterpark experience the thrill of riding one of the brand-new water slides – MASS Mayhem, Peak Plunge, or Valley Vortex. Race your friends and family down the 296-feet mat racer or just relax in the wave pool as three foot waves keep you cool all day long. The resort also offers skiing, golf, and other activities depending on the season.

4. Atlantis Waterpark (Centreville, VA)

Located within the Bull Run Regional Park, Atlantis Waterpark is another fantastic option for families seeking aquatic thrills. The park features a variety of slides catering to different levels of adrenaline, along with a large play structure and splash zones designed for younger children. The expansive wave pool and lazy river offer relaxation amidst the excitement, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all visitors.

5. North Arundel Aquatic Center (Glen Burnie, MD)

Located just a short drive from DC in Alexandria, Great Waves Waterpark is a summer paradise offering an array of attractions. Thrill-seekers can brave the massive water slides like the Paradise Plunge, while families can enjoy the giant wave pool or relax on the lazy river. The Little Waves Bay provides a safe and fun area for younger children, making Great Waves a perfect destination for families with kids of all ages.

6. SplashDown Waterpark (Manassas, VA)

For those willing to venture a bit further southwest of DC, SplashDown Waterpark in Manassas awaits with its exciting lineup of water adventures. From the exhilarating slides and splash pads to the lazy river and play areas, SplashDown offers plenty of ways to cool off and have a blast under the sun. It’s an ideal spot for a day trip with the family, complete with picnic areas for a relaxing lunch break.

7. Ocean Dunes Waterpark (Arlington, VA)

Nestled within Upton Hill Regional Park in Arlington, Ocean Dunes Waterpark is a local favorite known for its thrilling slides and expansive swimming pool. The Pirate’s Cove splash area is perfect for younger children, while older kids and adults can brave the high-speed slides and enjoy the poolside lounging areas. The park also features mini-golf and batting cages for added entertainment beyond the water.

8. Kalahari Resorts (Pocono Mountains, PA)

Kalahari Resorts in the Pocono Mountains is known for its massive indoor water park, boasting thrilling rides like the FlowRider surfing simulator, the Anaconda water roller coaster, and the adventurous Zimbabwe Zipper. The resort also offers spa services, dining options, and family-friendly accommodations.

9. Great Wolf Lodge (Pocono Mountains, PA)

Another Great Wolf Lodge location, the Pocono Mountains resort features an expansive indoor water park with signature attractions like the Howlin’ Tornado funnel ride, Slap Tail Pond wave pool, and Fort Mackenzie interactive play structure. The lodge also offers themed rooms, dining options, and activities for all ages.

SplashDown Waterpark

Tips for Your Visit:

  • Check Operating Hours: Make sure to verify the waterpark’s operating hours and any special events before planning your trip.
  • Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and swimwear are essential for a day under the sun. Consider bringing snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Safety First: Always supervise children in waterpark areas and follow all posted safety guidelines to ensure a fun and safe experience for everyone.

With these top outdoor waterparks near Washington, DC, your family is sure to make a splash this summer. Whether you’re sliding down thrilling water rides or soaking up the sun by the poolside, these destinations offer the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for a memorable day or weekend out. So, grab your towels and swimsuits, and get ready to dive into a world of aquatic fun right in your backyard!

Send your kids to Camp KidJam this summer

Camp KidJam is for rising 2nd- 5th graders created to encourage growth for kids in
their relationship with God and one another. Camp KidJam is excited to partner with
National Community Church for a unique Day Camp Experience. We’re bringing all of
the creative, engaging elements of CKJ to DC in July!

There will be compelling Bible stories, impactful small groups, fun track activities,
crazy team cheers, and of course, unforgettable games.

Learn more here!

Dates: July 25-28, 2023

Time: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: National Community Church, 700 M Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

Cost: $250.00 per person

Includes: Programming, activities, supplies, and t-shirt
Does Not Include: Meals and transportation

DC Family Weekend Fun Guide

Playing all weekend long: Hadestown at the National Theatre
It is an incredible show!!

Friday
5:00pm-7:00pm: Poster Making at The Loft Collective
Bring your positive messages and a spirit of inclusivity and joy to support and celebrate Takoma Park’s LGBTQ+ community! Community events will take place on Sunday, June 11, 10a-2p (more info on Takoma Pride Day here). Poster making is a family event is open to all ages. This event is FREE, but please register so that we know how many to expect.

Saturday

9:30am AND 11:00am: Saturday Morning Live! at The National: VIORE: An Adaptation Story by Regan Linton
Once upon a time, the letters V, I, O, R, and E were living their best lives – happy, active, and joyful. But one day, things began to change and the letters transformed. It’s an engaging story of adaptation and how we can all change and grow to become happy, active, and joyful in a whole new way. 

10:00am-1:00pm: Art Cart at Hirshhorn
Make some noise for a sound inspired Art Cart. Join us at this week’s Art Cart to investigate and play with sound. Then, make your own sound inspired collage. Find the Art Cart on the Third Level and pick up noise-making materials.

11:00am-2:00pm: Pride at Bark in Boro Park
All are welcome, especially those without a pet at home! Looking for a new leash on life?  Paw by Paw Dog Training will host two hour-long training workshops from 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM and 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.  Pre-register to participate here. Bone Appetit! A dog (& human!) treat bar will serve pastries, coffee and puppuccinos from Bluestone Lane, as well as milk bones, chews and treats. Get your furry friend glammed with live tag engraving on-site. Need some puppy therapy? Wolf Trap Animal Rescue will bring a group of puppies to snuggle as they share more about animal rescue & adoption.  A kids’ craft and activation area will be set up for little ones to enjoy throughout the festivities.

2:00pm-9:00pm: Pride on the Pier
The Washington Blade in partnership with LURe DC and The Wharf are excited to announce the 4th Annual Pride on the Pier celebration during DC Pride in June 2023. Pride on the Pier extends the city’s annual celebration of LGBTQ visibility to the bustling Southwest waterfront with an exciting array of activities and entertainment. The District Pier will offer a DJ, dancing and other entertainment. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase for those 21 and older.

3:00pm-7:30pm: Pride Parade
Celebrate with the LGBTQ+ community and its allies at the historic Capital Pride Parade! This beloved tradition honors our history and acknowledges the evolution of the LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in Washington, DC, while respecting the origins and importance of taking to the streets in the fight for equality. Be prepared to experience one of the largest Pride Parades to ever take place in the Nation’s Capital.

7:00pm: Youth Soccer Night at the Spirit Game
Versus Angel City

Sunday

11:00am-2:00pm: Takoma Pride Day
Celebrating LGBTQ+ community during Takoma Pride Day. This year’s theme is Protect Trans Rights. With significant legislation across the country attacking the trans community, the intention is to send messages of equality, acceptance, and action. 

12:00pm-10:00pm: Pride Festival
Join the LGBTQ+ community on America’s Mainstreet, historic Pennsylvania Avenue, for the Capital Pride Festival. Enjoy a full day of entertainment on three stages, food, drink, and advocacy with over 300 exhibitors. The Festival is the largest annual event in the national capital region and continues to be free to the public.

More posts:
Overnight trips for the family
Beach and State park
Day destinations (less than 2 hours away)
Trails, marshes & gardens
Outdoor fun
15 ways to get outdoors
Adult getaways

logo design courtesy of New Leaf Design