indoor

The Ultimate Guide to Indoor Fun for Kids in and around Washington, D.C.

August 30, 2024

Washington, D.C. is not only the political heart of the United States but also a city bursting with vibrant cultural, educational, and recreational activities—many of which are perfect for families! If you’re looking to escape the weather or simply enjoy some indoor fun, D.C. has plenty to offer. From world-class museums and creative play spaces to indoor sports and interactive exhibits, here’s your comprehensive guide to all the best indoor places to take kids in Washington, D.C.

Museums with Kid-Friendly Exhibits

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Explore the wonders of the natural world at this iconic museum. Kids will love the Dinosaur Hall, featuring life-sized skeletons, and the Hall of Mammals, where they can see their favorite animals up close. Don’t miss the Butterfly Pavilion, where they can walk among free-flying butterflies.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Perfect for young aviators and astronauts, this museum offers interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and a planetarium. Children can learn about the history of flight, explore space through virtual reality experiences, and even touch a real moon rock!
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Step back in time to explore America’s past. Highlights include the Spark!Lab, a hands-on invention space where kids can become inventors, and the Draper Spark!Lab, which encourages creativity and innovation.
International Spy Museum
For little detectives, the Spy Museum is a thrilling experience. Kids can learn about espionage, test their skills in interactive spy challenges, and see real-life spy gadgets.
National Children’s Museum
A blend of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) exhibits, this museum is designed specifically for young minds. Interactive exhibits like the Dream Machine and the Innovation Sandbox encourage learning through play.
National Geographic Museum
This museum offers rotating exhibits that often feature stunning photography, interactive displays, and hands-on activities. Kids can learn about wildlife, space, and world cultures.
United States Botanic Garden
While primarily known for its outdoor gardens, the Conservatory offers a warm, humid escape with lush greenery, a children’s garden, and educational exhibits about plant life. It’s a fantastic spot for kids to learn about nature while staying indoors.
National Gallery of Art – East Building
While not specifically for children, the East Building’s modern art collection is vibrant and colorful, making it accessible for younger viewers. They also offer family workshops and programs to help kids engage with art creatively. Kids will also love the lit-up moving walkway.
The National Postal Museum
A Smithsonian Institution that is under visited will keep your child busy, especially the older ones. There are many hands-on exhibits as well as replica mail cars and mail carrying planes hanging from the ceiling. Visitors can create their own stamp designs, sort through the Museum’s collection and create their own stamp collection based on the topics that interest them at touchscreen tables and kids can pretend they are mail-clerks and try to toss packages into their proper bin. Union Station is located next door so you can take the Metro (red line or stop by Union Station to admire the architecture or grab lunch.
Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Located in the heart of the Nation’s Capital, the BEP’s Washington, DC Tour & Visitor Center is a great place to learn all about U.S. paper currency. You can see millions of dollars bring printed as you walk along the gallery overlooking the production floor. The free 40-minute experience includes an introductory film and gallery tour of the production process. The visitor center includes exhibits and currency products for sale.
The National Capital Trolley Museum
This museum is not very large but will have the attention of those train enthusiasts in your family. Summer is the perfect time to go as they have family programs throughout; storytelling, crafts and videos featuring trolley cartoons. They have a model train, a working trolley kids can take rides on (rides are unlimited with paid ticket), silent films displaying trolley life, and a large area full of old street cars.
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Choose your own adventure with a day full of play, exploration, and family-friendly fun at Port Discovery. Featuring hands-on experiences, interactive exhibits, and entertaining programs all designed to spark imaginations and help children and adults connect, discover, and learn through play.
U.S Capitol Tour
The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tours begin every 10 minutes until 3:20 p.m. All tours are led by our professional tour guides and visit the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall.

Indoor Play Spaces and Activity Centers

Be With Me Playseum
A unique children’s play museum where kids can role-play in different themed rooms, from a grocery store to a dentist’s office. The Playseum encourages imaginative play and is designed for children up to age 9.
Scramble
An indoor play facility in Alexandria, Virginia, Scramble offers a massive play structure, a mini-soccer field, and even a separate toddler zone. This European-style play space is designed to encourage active, imaginative play.
Magic Ground
A unique children’s entertainment center and indoor playground design to create a fun, educational, and memorable experience for both children and their parents. Urban parents and children will find a place to spend valuable family time, play safely, eat healthy, and also relax while your children play and participate in activities especially designed to stimulate their development.

Creative Spaces and Art Activities

Red Panda Art Studio
They offer classes, camps and day-off workshops designed to engage children’s creativity, enhance their imagination, and explore their artistic abilities – with an overall focus on having fun and collaborating with peers. They provide different activities and materials to keep them engaged and interested, and allow more time to explore in depth when desired.
The Loft Collective
An art studio for children and families, located in Takoma Park, MD, just at the edge of Washington DC. They offer classes that focus on making as a conduit for making meaning and making connections. With an eye on public art and a diverse group of artists, they choose projects and stories that explore the power of art to amplify voices, shift mindsets, and impact change.
District Dabble Lab
District DabbleLab is a space that seeks to inspire imagination, develop skills, spark curiosity, and promote creativity.
All Fired Up
Another fantastic pottery painting studio, All Fired Up offers a variety of ceramic pieces to paint, from figurines to plates. They also host workshops and birthday parties.
Kids Create Art Studio
This art studio offers a range of art classes and workshops for kids, including painting, drawing, and sculpture. It’s a great way to nurture creativity in a structured environment.
ArtJamz
An art playdate or a time to go get messy. Each child gets their own canvas to paint and keep, an easel, smock, and unlimited access to a huge selection of art materials. Glitter, stencils, palettes, and other materials are sure to excite and inspire any young artist. Parents can get their own easel and canvas or grab a drink at the bar and hang out in the artists lounge while the kiddos unleash their inner artists. Multiple locations in the DMV.

Indoor Sports and Recreation

Lucky Strike Bowling
This upscale bowling alley located in Chinatown is perfect for a family outing. They offer kid-friendly lanes, bumpers, and even lightweight balls for younger children.
Pinstripes Bowling
The Georgetown & Bethesda locations offers a unique variety of entertainment and events every day of the week. Enjoy our made-from-scratch Italian-American cuisine during Saturday & Sunday Brunch with the family, happy hour after work, or a night of bowling and bocce.
Swingers Putt-Putt
Swingers Dupont Circle takes crazy golf from the 1920’s British seaside, Tanqueray infused plus-fours, adds DC’s best street food, banging beats and sticks it in Dupont Circle. Game on…
Beat the Bomb
Beat the Bomb players pull on hazmat suits, helmets, and face shields and move through a series of high-tech rooms while cracking codes and navigating laser mazes. If you don’t succeed, you get blasted! Children must be at least 8 years old to participate, and kids 10 and up can play on their own.
My Gym Potomac
Whether you’re looking for a fantastic Parent and Me program or high-energy classes for big kids – you’ve come to the right place! The Guest Experience includes Unlimited Classes and Open Gym sessions for one week!
Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park
Another trampoline park that offers fun for all ages. Sky Zone has toddler time during the week, Sky Jam (16 and older) and they offer birthday parties.
Woodrow Wilson Aquatic Center
An amazing aquatic center in Tenleytown that offers an Olympic size indoor lap pool and kiddie pool that is open year round, seven days a week. Kiddie pool includes basketball hoops, a wade in area and buckets that dump water. Free to DC residents.
Five Iron Golf
A mix of indoor golf and entertainment. State-of-the-art simulators and world-class instruction meet premium events and amenities plus delectable food and cocktail menus. Five Iron is fostering a dynamic, engaging, and fun atmosphere for golf enthusiasts and party-goers alike. They also offer children’s birthday parties.
DC Improv Comedy Club – Family Shows
While most shows are for adults, DC Improv occasionally hosts family-friendly comedy shows and improv workshops, which can be a fun and unique indoor experience for older kids.
The Escape Game
9 escape rooms for all skill levels.
ZavaZone
This indoor adventure park, located just outside D.C., offers trampolines, climbing walls, zip lines, and ropes courses. It’s an ideal spot for energetic kids looking to burn off some energy.
Monster Mini Golf
Monster Mini Golf is an exciting indoor monster themed glow in the dark 18 hole miniature golf course that offers a host of fun activities at every turn. This is not your average mini golf course! Whether you’re visiting for the first time, or the hundredth, you feel the excitement and adventure of playing mini golf among a scary but cool monster décor with custom and animated props at every turn.
Shadowland Laser Tag
An indoor laser tag facility featuring a large, multi-level arena filled with glowing walls, fog, music, and special effects that create an immersive gaming environment. The venue is designed to resemble a futuristic labyrinth with plenty of nooks, crannies, and hiding spots, making it an ideal setting for strategy-based play.
HyperKidz
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. Various locations in the DMV.
Laugh Out Loud Stations Mega Fun Center
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.
Silver Stars Gymnastics
Offering classes, birthday parties and open gym (you do not have to be enrolled in classes).
Climb Zone
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. 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.
Play N’ Learn: The Playground Superstore
Spend up to 2 hours at Play N’ Learn’s indoor playground in Columbia, MD. Your children are welcome to come play on swing sets, basketball goals, trampolines, air hockey and foosball tables in the 6,000 sq ft facility. The facility, which features safe rubber flooring throughout, is best suited to entertain ages 2-8. However, they do have baby swings to accommodate the little guys.

Science and Discovery Centers

KID Museum
Located in Bethesda, Maryland, KID Museum offers hands-on activities focused on science, technology, and creativity. Kids can engage in maker activities, robotics, and other STEM-related workshops.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – Q?rius
A unique discovery room designed for older kids and teens, Q?rius offers a hands-on learning environment where kids can touch real fossils, use microscopes, and explore various scientific fields.
Planet Word
This unique museum dedicated to language and words offers interactive exhibits that are perfect for older kids and teens. They can participate in word games, explore the history of languages, and even record their own stories.
Maryland Science Center
In addition to all of the great hands-on science exhibits MSC has a Kids Room designed for children ages 0-8. Highlights include large water play area, undersea world with periscope and submarine theme and pneumatic messaging system, streetscape, and giant pinscreen. The museum also has an IMAX and Planetarium.
imagiNATIONS Activity Center at The National Museum of the American Indian
The interactive, family-friendly imagiNATIONS Activity Center provides young visitors a lively space with a wide variety of learning experiences. The cultural and scientific knowledge of Indigenous peoples reflects a tradition driven by innovation that is both unique and universal. Today many of their innovations and inventions are part of daily life for millions worldwide. Visitors to the center may explore some of these ingenious adaptations through a variety of play-based interactives.
Wegman’s Wonderplace at The National Museum of American History
Wegmans Wonderplace is the first exhibition on the National Mall designed for children 0 to 6. This 1,700-square-foot interactive space provides the youngest historians with age-appropriate activities and experiences.
Glen Echo Park Aquarium
The Glen Echo Park Aquarium is a Chesapeake Bay Discovery Center in historic Glen Echo Park. Their mission is to promote awareness of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed through education, in order to encourage stewardship and conservation. The Aquarium features live animal exhibits, static and interactive displays, activities, a live touch tank, a giant sand pit, a submarine, and a pirate ship in a tree, all designed to help our visitors learn about our nation’s largest estuary!

Family Friendly Theaters

Nature Centers with Indoor Exhibits

Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium
This center features exhibits about the local wildlife and history of Rock Creek Park, as well as a small planetarium offering shows on the weekends.
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Visitor Center
While the aquatic gardens are primarily an outdoor attraction, the visitor center offers educational displays and activities for kids to learn about wetland ecosystems.
Smithsonian’s National Zoo – Small Mammal House and Reptile Discovery Center
While the zoo is an outdoor experience, don’t miss the indoor exhibits like the Small Mammal House and the Reptile Discovery Center, which provide close-up views of fascinating creatures.

Ice rinks and roller rinks in and around Washington, DC

January 8, 2022

Outdoor ice skating rinks

Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District– Downtown Columbia, MD
The Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District is back for the 2021 – 2022 season! There will be plenty of celebrations and themed events throughout the season, as well as music and pop-up food and beverage. You will have a 75-minute skate period beginning when you enter the rink.

Pentagon Row– 1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202
October 25 – mid-March
Reservations are required to skate. Reservations are open two weeks in advance. They also offer skating lessons to children and adults.

Canal Park Ice Rink– 202 M Street, SE Washington, DC 20003
November – February and open on holidays

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink– National Mall at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20408
Skating fees are for two 45-minute sessions. November 19, 2021–March 6, 2022, weather permitting. You can purchase single tickets, seasons passes and they offer skating lessons.

Silver Spring Veteran’s Plaza Ice Rink– 8523 Fenton St., Silver Spring, MD 20910
October 29 – mid-March
This season reservations are required to skate at the rink. Reservations are open two weeks in advance. They offer group and private skating lessons.

Rockville Town Square Ice Rink– 131 Gibbs St., Rockville, MD 20850
Mid-October – mid-March
This season reservations are required to skate at the rink. Reservations are open two weeks in advance. They offer several options to learn to skate- whether you are an aspiring hockey player, beginning figure skater, an adult wishing to get reacquainted with the ice, or anything in between, they have an option for you.

Wharf Ice Rink– 960 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
November 26 – late February and open on holidays
This year, The Wharf Ice Rink has gone ALL CAPS. Check out the Washington Capitals décor and ice resurfacer, and join fellow hockey fans on the ice for Rock The Rink skate event on January 15. The Rock The Rink skate event features a DJ, Caps gear giveaways, and a visit from Slapshot. During the event, they’ll also broadcast the Capitals’ away game on a jumbotron near the ice and fans wearing Capitals gear receive $5 off admission to The Wharf Ice Rink. Also, join for a free, friendly game of curling every Wednesday evening in January! The Canadian game marries hockey and shuffleboard for a low-pressure evening on the ice—no skates needed! Want to play? Preregister for your desired gametime on Eventbrite. Games begin at 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm every Wednesday through January.

Washington Harbour Ice Rink– 3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Reserve your tickets here.

Gaylord National Ice Rink– 201 Waterfront Street National Harbor, MD 20745
Tickets must be purchased in advance online. No on-site box office. Unlimited same-day skating and skates.

Indoor ice rinks

Cabin John Ice Rink– 10610 Westlake Dr Rockville, MD 20852
Open year-round with three rinks (NHL, Olympic, and Studio), public skate sessions, lessons provided, camps, three party rooms available to rent, a pro shop with skating equipment, apparel, and skate sharpening and repair services.

Wheaton Ice Arena– 11717 Orebaugh Ave, Wheaton, MD 20902
NHL-size skating rink, public skate sessions, camps, lessons provided, two party rooms to rent, a snack bar /vending machines with refreshments and snacks. Pro Shop with skates, hockey equipment, apparel, skate sharpening, and repair services.

Fort Dupont Ice Arena– 3779 Ely Place SE Washington, DC 20019
They have a program which offers opportunities for kids from 5-18 interested in hockey, figure skating, synchronized skating and speed skating.

MedStar Capitals Iceplex– Ballston, VA
Practice rink of our Washington Capitals! You can public skate, take lessons, adults can take part in a pick-up game of hockey, kids can take hockey lessons, have a birthday party and attend camps.

Indoor roller rinks

Lanham Skate– Lanham, MD
Family fun nights, arcade games, lessons, STEM field trips, birthday parties, school break days and more!

Laurel Roller Skating Center– Laurel, MD
Birthday parties, lessons, family nights and more!

Temple Hills– Temple Hills, MD
Family skate nights, glow nights, arcade, STEM field trips, birthday parties and more!

Skate Zone– Crofton, MD
Lessons, birthday parties, STEM field trips, event calendar and more!

Cavalier Family Skating– Stafford, VA
Birthday parties, speed team, arcade and indoor play zone, lessons and more!

Skate-N-Fun Zone– Mannassass, VA
Laser tag, arcade, indoor play zone, themed nights, STEM field trips and more!

Outdoor roller rink

Anacostia Park– SE, DC
Skate rentals are free at this outdoor rink! And on summer weekends you can dance to DJ music as you enjoy this open air roller rink. This is the one and only roller skating rink in the National Park Service but is only open for a short season. Skate rentals will return Memorial Day to Labor Day 2022.

5 Plant and Garden Stores in Washington, DC

February 18, 2021

I have always had a love for gardening but the pandemic has brought to light my obsession of growing indoor plants. Keeping my orchids long after they’ve blossomed and shed that final bloom has paid off. I have found the secret to the exotic plants re-blooming {I’m currently looking at three orchids that have flowered twice since March}. Finding enough but not too much natural light, being careful of your heat sources and understanding how much to water them are a few simple tricks to being successful with your plants.

My next purchase will be a swiss cheese plant, string-of-pearls and a philodendron pink princess! It is not a cheap hobby but one that sure does bring me JOY {and a morsel of healthier air}! I’ve linked 5 of my favorite DC plant stores that not only have amazing plants but also extremely helpful employees that are sure to get you off to a good start whether you already have a green thumb or perhaps aim to have one soon.

American Plant: 5258 River Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816 & 7405 River Road Bethesda, MD 20817

Capital City Hydroponics: 821 Upshur St NW, Washington, DC 20011

Gingko Gardens: 911 11th St SE, Washington, DC 20003

Little Leaf: 1401 S St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Rewild: 1924 8th St NW Suite #100, Washington, DC 20001 & 3270 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Winter camps and classes for kids in Washington, DC

November 14, 2019

Thanksgiving camps:

Nov. 25-27: Red Panda Art Camp
Extended workshops are designed for ages 3.5 to 10. Workshops run from 9:00am to 12:30pm, with an option to extend until 2:00pm. During these days off of school camp, art will be on! Join for a full day of sensory play and art exploration.

Nov. 25-27: HoopEd
Throughout the school year, HoopEd offers special, one to five-day sports camps for children, ages 5-13, who are out of school due to Federal holidays, parent-teacher conferences, professional development days and winter/spring break. Camps are held in the gyms and playgrounds of local area schools between the hours of 9:00am and 3:00pm with after care available until 5:30pm.

Nov. 27: Thanksgiving Break Ultimate Sports Camps at the St. James
Campers will get to experience all that The St. James has to offer, from basketball and rock climbing, to ice skating and splashing in our Waterpark. Campers should wear athletic clothes and sneakers, and pack a swimsuit and towel for the pool. Lunch is included in this 9am – 4pm session for 7-15 year olds

Nov. 27 & Nov. 29: Squash on Fire
School may be on break but Squash is always in session! Camps include drills, matchplay, strategy and fitness. Open to juniors between the ages of 9-18. Don’t miss the opportunity for your champion in the making to train with our world-renown coaches and to keep their squash skills sharp!

Winter camps:

Dec. 23 – Jan. 3: HoopEd Sports Camp

Dec. 23 – Dec. 31: Dynamite Gymnastics

Dec. 23 – 27 & Dec. 30 – Jan. 3: Anna Banana Art Camp

Dec. 27 & Dec. 30 :Red Panda Art Studio

Dec. 23 – Dec. 31: My Gym Bethesda & My Gym Potomac

Dec. 23 – Jan.1: Gymnastics Camp at Silver Stars

Dec. 23 – Jan. 2: CREATE Arts Center

Dec. 26 – Dec. 31: KID Museum Day Camp

Dec. 26 – Dec. 30: Badlands Winter Camp

Dec. 26 – Dec. 31: Capitol Language Service

Dec. 30, Jan. 2 & 3: Squash on Fire

Winter classes:

Adventure Theatre: Musical theatre classes (technically Spring Semester) for grades K-5

Anna Banana Arts & Crafts: Art classes for 2-8 year olds

Edlavitch DCJCC: Offers child & caregiver classes as well as afternoon classes and camps

Imagination Stage: Theme-based classes for children ages 1 – 18

Just For Kids: A variety of sports classes for ages 2.5 – 9 years old

Montgomery County Recreation Department: An enormous variety of classes for all ages (don’t have to be a Montgomery Co resident to enroll)

My Gym Bethesda & My Gym Potomac: Winter sports, dance, ninja and mixed-sibling classes for kids ages 3 months – 10 years old

Red Panda Art Studio: Morning and after-school classes for ages 2-8

Silver Stars Gymnastics: Classes for children ages 18 months and up

Smithsonian National Zoo: Preschool and homeschool classes for children ages 6-10

Super Soccer Stars: Soccer for kids 12 months to 6 years old

Synetic Theater: Each Saturday morning class will have a theme/focus for kids grades K-12. All the games and activities will be geared around this theme.

Tinkergarten: Outdoor classes for kids 6 months-8 years old, refer to a previous post we wrote for more insight

Quick Feet: Soccer for 2-7 year olds in DC, MD and VA

Parent groups:
Group for first and second time Moms PACE
Returning to work after maternity leave through Mindful Return
New Mom’s group at Lemon Tree
Meet-up Monday’s with Petite DC
A school for toddlers and parents/caregivers at Intown Playgroup

Indoor gyms:
My Gym Bethesda
Busy Bees
Magic Ground
Badlands
Gymboree
Kidville
Not your typical gym

34+ ways to survive Daylight Savings in and around Washington, DC

October 30, 2019

Most of us dread that date in Fall that creeps up and turns our strict routine into havoc; Daylight Savings. For parents, it’s a few months where our time spent outdoors comes to a halt and we wonder how to occupy the remainder of the evening (that used to be so sunny) with our children. And contrary to popular belief, the answer is not an earlier bedtime. Let’s be honest, you can only put on an afternoon movie so many times. Here are a few ideas I’ve compiled from readers as well as my own DST adventures to help you get out of the house with your Bambino(s) this Fall & Winter. Don’t forget to check out our Indoor Fun Guide for even more options!

Ideas for fun outside of your home:

1. Go for a dip at Wilson, Marie Reed or any of DC indoor swimming pools or sign up for swimming lessons at an indoor pool.

2. Bloombars has evening classes, events and performances.

3. Drop by a pet store to observe the animals and maybe see some dogs getting groomed.

4. DC Library holds late afternoon family programs and events. Reserve a room at a public library and have a play date with friends. DC Library is open until 9pm Mon-Thur.

5. Isn’t Target obvious?! (Try not to buy everything).

6. Grab a lane and try for a strike at Pinstripes or Bowlero. Dinner is served alongside bowling. Locations in Georgetown, Rockville & Bethesda.

7. Walk around Union Market, dining and shopping. Politics & Prose is now located here which is a bonus– get lost in a book or two.

8. Hotel lobbies can be fascinating, especially around the holidays. Plus, they have bathrooms and heat.

9. Get creative at Treehouse Atelier, Red Panda Art Studio, District Dabble Lab, Little Loft Art, Anna Banana or All Fired Up.

10. Child’s Play and Politics and Prose can be great places for your kids to check out new toys and books. Child’s Play has many toys out and welcome kids to play with them. Again, try not to buy everything =)

11. Go out to dinner at one of these DC restaurants that offer entertainment for kiddos.

12. Speaking of dinner, there are so many restaurants that offer KIDS EAT FREE throughout the week and weekend.

13. Grab a flashlight and go on an adventure walk. Bonus if you have time to create a scavenger hunt and if not check out these.

14. Check the bus route and take a random ride. All DC Circulator rides are $1. Metro is also a fun option!

15. Fairmont Hotel has a piano and a pretty garden, is fairly tolerant of children climbing up and down the stairs and enjoying the lobby’s holiday decorations.

16. Kennedy Center Millennium Stage has free, daily shows that begin at 6:00pm. Catch the show or just part of it, explore and walk the long foyer and look at the mirrors, ramps, etc. Be sure to take a look at the new addition; REACH. Go outside onto the terrace and watch the cars on the bridge or boats on the water.

17. Lace up those skates and go ice skate! (will update to 2019 soon)

18. Enroll in a winter class (will update to 2019 soon) or playgroup.

19. Dare I say, grocery shop….but my kids love making lists and my youngest loves pushing the cart while I pick up everything she knocks over with said cart. Bonus if you know of a store with a fun kid-car or kid-cart (Giant grocery stores are all I can think of).

20. Go see a movie! Splurge for some popcorn and a late bedtime.

21. Drop into a Pearachute class or event without committing to an entire session.

22. Happy Hour doesn’t have to wait until 5pm….Early dinner or apps (see #11 & #12).

23. Head to a Mall; head to the Apple store, food court or movie theatre. This Mall has a great family area. Chevy Chase Pavilion is a 3-story mall that will keep little kids attention with flashy lights and escalators and even has an underground tunnel that will take you across Wisconsin Ave. to more stores. Of course Tyson’s Corner is the mecca for shoppers but a trek for most of us.

24. Drop-in and play at Lemon Tree on Mondays-Thursdays from 1-5pm!
Register in advance for Open Play.

25. One of these indoor spaces is a great option but check their hours.

Ideas for fun in your home in case you can’t escape:

1. Bake or cook something with your Bambino(s). Get some ideas from Bistro Petite, Tiny Chefs and Together We Cook while you’re looking, sign your Bambino up for a cooking class.

2. Get bath paints or crayons and let your child get artsy and messy in the bath– bonus they can get clean while having fun. Bath bombs are also a hit especially these with surprises inside!

3. Buy this slime kit so you have it on hand! Make your own play doh or slime. While you’re at it, create a sensory box.

4. Arts and crafts can provide endless fun and messes (put your OCD tendencies aside). This is a great starter box that has plenty of supplies.

5. Put on a play, get out that old camcorder and record them– your iPhone will suffice too.

6. Download some educational apps on your device and set a timer.

7. Have your child help organize/fold socks when you’re doing laundry. My littlest loves to “wash” dishes; fill the sing with plenty of soap and give them a sponge or brush and have them wash those dishes that may have piled up.

8. Make a fort, add pillows and blankets and watch a movie, grab a flashlight and/or read stories.

9. Playdates help the time go by, (unless the kids don’t play together) and in that case you’d rather be doing one of the above mentioned activities.

Review of MOCO Movement Kids in Motion Class

May 1, 2019

Stefanie Harrington a local Mom of three, a personal friend and incredibly talented maternity, birth, newborn and family photographer recently visited MOCO Movement with her toddler and joined the Kids in Motion class.

This month, my daughter and I felt lucky to participate in the Kids in Motion class at the MOCO Movement Center located at 5268A Nicholson Lane, Rockville, MD. I wasn’t familiar with MOCO Movement Center so, in a nutshell, it offers engaging movement classes for children ages 6 months to 12 years, along with occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy by licensed therapists. They offer world class therapy services in a fully inclusive environment, alongside a sibling or peer taking a sports or movement class.

When we walked in, we found lots of books and toys at the entrance, which were a fun distraction for my two-year-old as we took off our shoes and socks (adults may leave their socks on). Ms. Taffany, one of the enthusiastic class instructors, welcomed us into the large gym space, where we could start with some free play. The other kids seem to attend class regularly so they were familiar with the space and already happily playing with toys, sliding or jumping on the trampolines, while we settled in.

After free play, the kids followed along as Ms. Taffany led them through songs and different movements that were fun and age appropriate for the group. The instructors were really great about gently encouraging kids to participate – my daughter was a little unsure of herself while she explored, but Ms. Taffany quickly engaged her by showing her a small slide. My daughter also really enjoyed the music toys and the bubble dance at the end of class – so much so that she didn’t want to go home when the class was over… I was finally able to convince her to leave with me as the next class was starting by promising her that we would be back! Luckily there are several classes and times to choose from.

Classes offered at MOCO Movement:

MOCO Motion (Ages 3-12)
Participants use strength and balance on giant obstacle courses designed with over-sized blocks, tightrope-style lines, trampoline and suspension equipment to find novel and innovative ways to strengthen their bodies and push their limits. Trained instructors tailor classes to each child and help them acquire foundational skills such as jumping, skipping, climbing and running necessary to safely participate in a wide variety of physical activities in their daily lives.

Sports Fundamentals (Ages 3-12)
Prepping your child to get on the right track with a variety of sports. Each class focuses on the fundamental movement skills of each sport.

Move & Groove (Under age 5)
Music and movement class designed to encourage a child’s natural musical abilities in a safe, fun and supportive environment while exercising. Classes are divided into a class for children under two years of age and children ages two to five years old. Children, along with a parent or guardian, will be encouraged to sing, dance, climb on oversized blocks, roll down inclined mats, shake shakers, bang drums and toss scarves around. Instruments provided including castanets, triangles, guitar, boomwhackers, electric guitars, a drum kit, keyboard and many more.

Kids in Motion (Ages 6 months-5 years)
Children and caregivers participate in early learning and preschool activities while having fun in our obstacle course inspired gym. From circle time to the big adventure, our weekly themes incorporate movement, toy exploration and learning. Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers participate in strength and balance activates to acquire functional skills such as crawling, walking, jumping and climbing and dancing.

Sporty Tots (Ages 2-5)
A movement class that focuses on foundational sports skills for toddlers. Introduction to ball skills (throwing, catching, kicking..), stick handling within context of baseball, basketball, and soccer.

Port Discovery Children’s Museum + GIVEAWAY

November 25, 2018

Port Discovery Children’s Museum has updated their event listings and we’ve got the highlights for you:

Salute the Troops – Free admission/discounts going on through January 1
Gingerbrick Decorating – Saturday, December 1 & Saturday, December 8
Dollar (or Less) Day – Sunday, December 9
Birthday Extravaganza Weekend (celebrating their 20^th year of play) – Saturday, December 15 & Sunday, December 16
Winter Break Fun – December 22 – January 1
Noontime New Year – December 31
And a pretty special event that they’ll be announcing soon – taking place on January 1!

December 2018: Featured Exhibits:

The Adventures of MR. POTATO HEAD Exhibit
Open Now – through January 21, 2018
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children younger than two are admitted for free.

Have an out-of-this world silly adventure with MR. POTATO HEAD® when you explore The Adventures of MR. POTATO HEAD® exhibit, at Port Discovery September 22, 2018 through January 21, 2019! Travel the globe and have fun learning on a jungle safari, an archeological dig, under the sea and outer space. Crawl through a jungle cave, dig for treasure, go scuba diving, and command a space station as you think about all you can be and do! The Adventures of MR. POTATO HEAD® exhibit was created by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with Hasbro. MR. POTATO HEAD® is a registered trademark of Hasbro, Inc. and is used with permission. © 2018 Hasbro. All rights reserved. The national exhibit tour is sponsored by the Northwestern Mutual Foundation, with additional support provided by Debra Altshul-Stark and Brian Stark, and the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. Locally sponsored by M&T Bank.

Special Offers:

Salute the Troops
November 1, 2018 – January 1, 2019
Free admission for active duty, veterans and retired military*

As part of the Salute the Troops Program, active duty, veterans and retired military receive free admission to Port Discovery Children’s Museum beginning November 11, 2018 through January 1, 2019. Guests of service members will receive $2.00 off general admission. Simply present valid military or veterans ID to take advantage of this offer.*
*Present valid Military ID, Veterans ID, State Driver’s License with Veterans Designation or Discharge Papers (photocopies acceptable) to redeem offer. One free admission per transaction. No other discounts, offers or passes may be applied within the same transaction.

Thrifty Tuesdays & Thursdays
Admission is $10 on select Tuesday and Thursday afternoons
Visit for less! Visit Port Discovery on Tuesday and Thursdays from 1-4PM for just $10. That’s more than $5 off each general admission ticket! Enjoy hands-on, interactive exhibits and educational programs that spark imagination and learning in a place custom made for kids! (Promotion valid October 2, 2018 through Thursday, December 20, 2018) Excluded dates include: 11/6/18.

December 2018: Featured Events & Programs:

Month-Long Birthday Celebration
Throughout December
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free

December marks Port Discovery’s 20^th birthday. We’ve filled the month with fun, learning and lots of special events for visitors, members and groups to enjoy, including month-long birthday celebrations where children and caregivers can sign our giant birthday card, join in on fun birthday-themed activities (including painting giant cakes and photobooths), and more. We also will host a fun-filled Birthday Extravaganza weekend on Saturday, December 15 & Sunday, December 16, along with a party to remember on our actual birthday, Saturday, December 29^th.

Healthy First Saturday & Gingerbrick Decorating
Saturday, December 1 | 10 AM – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Get the wiggles out as you learn about healthy activities and habits for your little one – and your entire family! Dance, sing and get active with Faza Fam Family Jam. Learn about science at our STEM Station, and help Port Discovery kick-off birthday celebrations in birthday-themed Pop-Up Art stations and Mother Goose on the Loose® programs. Plus, join in a fun holiday tradition as you decorate gingerbricks with the fantastic chefs from McCormick! Use icing, candy and more to decorate gingerbricks that will be used to create our custom, kid-made Port Discovery gingerbread house! Don’t forget to get in on our birthday fun, too – leave us a birthday message, take silly photos and more to help us celebrate 20 years of play!

Super Sundays
Sundays in December| December 2, 8, 16, 23, 30| 10 AM – 4 PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Enjoy a family adventure before the weekend is over! Sundays are terrific days to play – and to explore Port Discovery’s indoor magic designed just for kids. Explore movement and music together as you bop along to Tiny Tots Music Time. Join in interactive story times, and work together to create art or science projects during Pop-Up Art or at STEM Stations. Plus, build early literacy skills for infants and toddlers in Mother Goose on the Loose®. Don’t forget to get in on our birthday fun, too – leave us a birthday message, take silly photos and more to help us celebrate 20 years of play!

Infant & Toddler Time
Wednesdays in December| December 5, 12, 19, 26 | 10 AM – 4 PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Looking for fun, educational programs for your infant, toddler, pre-schooler or kindergartener? Join Port Discovery for Infant & Toddler Time on Wednesdays, when drop-in programming is designed especially for children ages birth to six! Join in interactive story times, explore rhythm and music together during our fun and interactive Tiny Tots Music Time and introduce children to early literacy skills through Mother Goose on the Loose®. Wednesdays at Port Discovery are also limited to groups with children under the age of six, making for a great day of play and learning for your little ones.

Fantastic Fridays
Fridays in December | December 7, 14, 21 & 28 | 10 AM – 4 PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Fridays are for fun and learning – and infants, toddlers, and older children rule the day at Port Discovery. Visit Port Discovery on any Friday for drop-in programs designed to build imaginations, spark curiosity, and literacy and language skills through play. Explore movement and music together as you sing and dance along during our lively Tiny Tots Music Time. Introduce children to early literacy skills during Mother Goose on the Loose(R. Plus take part in our signature Circle Time, get active while taking part in our Backyard Games Circuit, and create simple art projects as a family!

Gingerbrick Decorating
Saturday, December 8 | 10 AM – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Gingerbread houses, gum drops, icing…WAHOO! Join Port Discovery and the wonderful chefs from McCormick to decorate gingerbricks with tasty treats (we won’t tell if you eat one or two…or ten)! Watch as your creating becomes part of a GIANT gingerbread house that will be on display throughout the holiday season. Add to your holiday tradition with other fun and play inside the Museum – get your face painted, make DIY party hats, try out yoga for kids, and dance, sing and get the wiggles out with The Kindersinger’s Snowy Days are Coming program. Don’t forget to get in on our birthday fun, too – leave us a birthday message, take silly photos and more to help us celebrate 20 years of play!

Dollar (or Less) Day
Sunday, December 9 | Noon – 5 PM

Join us for a day of play for just $1! On Sunday, December 9, admission to Port Discovery will be just $1!* as Port Discovery participates in Baltimore’s Annual Dollar (or less) Days. This is a fantastic chance to explore the Museum and see what learning through play is all about. Please keep in mind that this day will be a busy one – please be prepared for possible lines to enter the Museum and heavier than usual traffic inside the Museum. *No other discounts, offers or passes may be applied within the same transaction. Tickets while using this discount must be purchased at the Box Office in person and cannot be applied to past purchases or online orders.

Birthday Extravaganza
Saturday, December 15 | 10 AM – 5PM Sunday, December 16 | Noon – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Who doesn’t love a birthday party?! Decorate life-sized birthday cakes (we’re talking BIG CAKES!), make DIY party hats, take part in our photo booth, and help us celebrate 20 years of play with fun, laughter and excitement! Our birthday extravaganza will take place throughout the day on Saturday, December 15 and Sunday, December 16. Can’t make it for our party? We’ll also be doing a bit of celebrating on December 29^th when we officially turn the big 2-0!

$2 Family Fun Night | Friday, December 21 | 4 – 8 PM
Admission $2 for individuals ages two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

$2 Family Fun Night is back!! Play, learn and explore for just $2 – and finish out 2018 with F-U-N! Adventure through the fantastic MR. POTATO HEAD® exhibit, try out science tricks that teach you about science in the coolest way ever, and enjoy books, art, animals and more! Don’t forget to get in on our birthday fun, too – leave us a birthday message, take silly photos and more to help us celebrate 20 years of play! Join us for $2 Family Fun Night on Friday, December 21 from 4-8PM. Don’t miss it!

Winter Break Fun
Saturday, December 22 – January 1
Monday – Saturday – 10 AM – 5PM | Sundays – Noon – 5PM
Closed Monday, December 24 & Tuesday, December 25
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Oh what fun it is to…Play! Especially over Winter Break! Keep those “I’m bored” comments to a minimum as you enjoy an indoor (and warm!) winter wonderland filled with festive performances and fun programs for the whole family. There’s tons to see, do and explore every day – from special science performances from Eric Energy to interactive play workshops, dancing and singing with the Kindersinger, pop-up science and STEM activities, family art projects and so much more that we can’t possibly list it all here! Check out our Winter Break Fun schedule of activities on our website for details on activities taking place each day!

Birthday, Birthday, Birthday!
Saturday, December 29 | 10AM – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Hip, hip, HOORAY! 20 Years of Play! Grab your kids, friends, neighbors…and anyone you know – and join us for a party to remember! Decorate GIANT (we’re talking big!!) birthday cakes. Create birthday cupcakes. Make birthday art. Take selfies and silly photos in our photobooth. And…of course…enjoy special activities like Eric Energy’s Freeze Show (how cool?!), a scooting rink (scooting has never been so fun), an interactive theater performance from our favorite puppet family, The Hornswoggles, and, finally….a birthday party show where we’ll sing, dance and celebrate together. Don’t miss out on this special day – after all, we couldn’t possibly celebrate our big 2-0 without you!

Noontime New Year
Monday, December 31 | 10AM – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Out with the old, in with the new! Celebrate the wonderful memories, fun and adventures of 2018 – and the magical new things to come in 2019 – at the best New Year’s celebration for kids in Baltimore! Revelers small and tall are invited to join in festive celebrations to ring in 2019. Featuring a noontime countdown, juice and cookie toast, indoor dance party, special performances from Eric Energy, The Kolonder’s, The Kindersinger, a fairy dancer and more – PLUS plenty of New Years’ themed fun, this event will also be a great opportunity to explore Port Discovery’s much-loved exhibits ahead of the wonderful transformations planned for 2019. Check out our Noontime New Year’s schedule of activities on our website for more details on activities you’ll enjoy!

December 2018: Recurring Drop-In Programs

Mess Zone & Clay Play in the BGE Studio Workshop
Open daily during operating hours
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Practice painting, printmaking, clay sculpting and more as you spark your child’s imagination through fun, hands-on art projects in the BGE Studio Workshop! Enter the Mess Zone as we work together to paint and create art. Or get your hands dirty digging and playing during our Clay Play activity. Not crazy about getting messy? That’s okay! We’ll have other activities to enjoy as well.

Circle Time
Weekdays during operating hours 11:30 AM | Check event calendar for weekend times
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children younger than two are admitted for free.

Bring your little ones to Port Discovery’s interactive Circle Time with a changing variety of songs, stories, and fun! Watch your child’s imagination come to life as they get involved in the story and dance and sing along! Plus explore three floors of interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to teach children through play during your visit.

Tiny Tots Music Time
Wednesdays at 11:30 am, Fridays at 11:30 am, 12:15 pm Sundays at 2:30 pm, 3:15 pm, and 4:00 pm
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Explore music and movement through play, laughter and lots of fun! This lively interactive music experience (formerly known as Jingle Jangle Music Time) teaches infants and young toddlers basic rhythm through singing, clapping, and shaking shakers. Birth to age 3 with a parent or caregiver.

Mother Goose on the Loose®
Wednesdays at 10:30 am Fridays at 10:30 am, Sundays at 1:30 pm
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Mother Goose is on the Loose at Port Discovery! Reciting nursery rhymes with puppets, flannel board characters, book illustrations, songs, and musical instruments in this joyful setting helps children develop early literacy skills through play. Birth to age 3 with a parent or caregiver.

GIVEAWAY: Win a 4-6 pack of tickets to Port Discovery – (valid through 12/30/18) by commenting on Facebook & Instagram with the name of your favorite children’s museum.

December Hours

Tuesdays – Fridays: 10 AM – 4PM | Saturdays: 10AM – 5PM | Sundays: Noon – 5PM

Winter Break Hours

Saturday, December 22 – January 1
Monday – Saturday – 10 AM – 5PM | Sundays – Noon – 5PM
Closed Monday, December 24 & Tuesday, December 25

Related Posts:
Top 11: Bambinos in Baltimore

Even more indoor spaces your Bambinos will love

September 10, 2018

Whether it’s the rain, heat or snow, families are always in need of some more indoor options. In addition to our Indoor Fun Guide, we’ve found even more fun places to pass along to you. After you’ve covered the entertainment, treat yourself to a meal and feed your kids for FREE.

Go bowling.

Bowlmor Bethesda, now called Bowlero
White Oak Duckpin Lanes
Bowl America
Lucky Strike