Beltway Bambinos

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

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    • 13 kid-worthy podcasts
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    • Inspiration for dinner @ home
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    • Live Streaming Shows for Kids
    • Virtual weekday adventures
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    • Indoor options!
    • Even more indoor spaces
    • Theater and musical productions
    • Badlands
    • ZavaZone
    • Busy Bees
    • Not your typical kid gym
    • Nook
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    • Fall classes {virtual & in-person}
    • Boo drive thru at the Zoo
    • Fall festivals, farms, orchards and events
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    • Winter bucket list
    • Ski and snowboard with kids
    • Cut-your-own tree farms
    • Holiday tea
    • Outdoor ice rinks
    • Holiday light displays, outdoor markets and celebrations
    • Camps, classes & parent groups
    • Holiday shows, ballets and concerts
    • Survive Daylight Savings
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    • Spring break camps
    • Easter, eggs and hunts
    • Mother’s Day
    • Memorial Day weekend in 2018
    • Tax day steals and deals
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    • Summer bucket list
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    • Live summer music
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    • Your favorite classes have gone virtual
    • School is out, these camps are in
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Family fun pancake battle fundraiser supporting Generation Hope

October 7, 2019


On Sunday,November 17, 2019 {NEW DATE} head to Nationals Park for a festive afternoon celebrating education, family, and delicious food for a family-friendly fundraiser supporting Generation Hope! Enjoy pancake masterpieces from the region’s leading “education celebrities,” a full brunch and mimosa bar, activities for kids, lawn games, the festivities of Nats Park, and a silent auction—all while supporting the life-changing work of Generation Hope. This is a family-friendly event, and children 5 and under are FREE!

Generation Hope surrounds motivated teen parents and their children with the mentors, emotional support, and financial resources that they need to thrive in college and kindergarten, thereby driving a two-generation solution to poverty.

  • WHEN: Sunday, November 17, 2019 from 11:00am – 1:30pm {NEW DATE}
  • WHERE: National’s Park: 1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003
  • WHY: A fundraiser to support Generation Hope, a DC nonprofit that surrounds motivated teen parents and their children with the mentors, emotional support, and financial resources that they need to thrive in college and kindergarten, thereby driving a two-generation solution to poverty. 
  • BUY TICKETS, starting at $20
  • MORE INFORMATION

With excitement the following local education champions will be joining the fun as pancake team chefs: 

  • Rushern L. Baker III, Former Prince George’s County Executive
  • Dr. DeRionne Pollard, President of Montgomery College 
  • Hans Riemer, Councilmember At-Large, Montgomery County

Look forward to seeing you there!

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Filed Under: Sponsored Post Tagged: DC, fundraiser, generation hope, nationals park, pancake battle, Washington

Where to spend Martin Luther King Day with kids in Washington, DC

January 18, 2019

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’” There are plenty of places open and needing assistance on Monday to serve those less fortunate and other places open to remember King. Here is our list of volunteer opportunities that aren’t necessarily MLK related but welcome you any time. We’ve got some events and opportunities you can share with your child to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. below. 

In case you are in need of mid-winter break camp or MLK Day camp, check the list of engaging camps here. 

What is Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Why is it a “Day of Service?” explained from the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Legislation signed in 1983 marked the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a federal holiday. In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with leading this effort. Each year, on the third Monday in January, the MLK Day of Service is observed as a “day on, not a day off.” MLK Day of Service is intended to empower individuals, strengthen communities, bridge barriers, create solutions to social problems, and move us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.”

Monday, January 21, 2019:

8:00am-9:00am: Wreath laying service at MLK Monument

9:30am-11:30am: MLK Day of Service at Tregaron Conservancy

10:00am:MLK Day of Service at Anacostia Park 

10:00am-6:00pm: MLK Dare to Dream at The American Visionary Art Museum
A celebration in honor of one history‘s greatest visionaries. Join us for special performances by DewMore Baltimore, Chin-Yer Wright, Kondwani Fidel, Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women, and Keur Khaleyi African Dance Company. Plus, enjoy birthday cake, a hands-on art workshop, and more at this FREE, fun-filled day! See our latest exhibition “PARENTING: An Art without a Manual” with FREE admission all day.

11:00am: 2019 Peace Walk

12:00pm: 38th Annual Martin Luther King Jr., Parade

3:00pm: Dr. MLK Jr Tribute & Celebration at Strathmore
Montgomery County celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King’s life through dramatic readings, music, and dance performances. This will be the first time in many years the holiday falls on his actual birthday, making this program particularly significant, with very special entertainment including a choral performance by the civil rights iconic Carlton Reese Memorial Unity Choir from Birmingham, Alabama. A visual art display from students interpreting what their dreams are for the future will also be presented. Free tickets are required for this event, and will be distributed onsite the day of the performance (Monday, January 15) starting at 2:30pm. All patrons must be in line to receive tickets, and one ticket will be distributed per person. The line will form in the Music Center foyer, starting near the café. Patrons may enter on the 3rd floor near the skybridge. Tickets are for general admission seating, which will begin at 3pm. Come early for the best seating.

6:00pm: Let Freedom Ring! at Kennedy Center

Events happening all weekend long: 

Various MLK volunteer opportunities can be found here

Visit the Martin Luther King Memorial

Join Rock Creek Conservancy
There are volunteer events in your neighborhood as well as other locations throughout Washington, DC, and Montgomery County, MD. Schedule below-

I Have a Dream weekend at Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy through hands-on educational activities exploring African-American history and heritage during Port Discovery’s “I Have a Dream Weekend.” Join in a variety of interactive programs designed to educate, inspire and help children of all ages to understand the impact Martin Luther King, Jr. made on America and the world throughout the weekend.

DC Libraries have celebrations all weekend long

Saturday & Sunday: Portrait Story Days: MLK

Saturday & Sunday: MLK Painting for Peace Freestyle Sessions at Art Jamz

Montgomery County MLK Day of Service: ALL FULL. Keep in mind for next year

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Filed Under: Holiday Options, Winter Tagged: DC, I have a dream, January 21, maryland, MLK birthday, MLK Jr, Service, Washington

Thanksgiving in and around Washington, DC

November 20, 2018

Thanksgiving

  • Season’s Greenings at the United States Botanic Garden –This year, take a train ride across America as the annual holiday show Season’s Greenings showcases train stations! Plant-based recreations of iconic train stations from across the United States will be represented in the train room. Explore classic stations like New York City’s Grand Central Terminal, St. Louis’ Union Station, and many more. Thousands of blooms will be on display throughout the Conservatory, including a showcase of heirloom and newly developed poinsettia varieties. Our collection of D.C. landmarks made from plant materials will return to fill the Garden Court, this year including a botanical version of Washington, D.C.’s Union Station. Celebrate the holidays and America’s railroad history. 
  • Volunteer with your family
  • ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas at the Gaylord National Resort- ICE! is a signature holiday attraction open Nov. 16-Jan. 1. Watch Charlie Brown rediscover the meaning of Christmas as the beloved story unfolds through two million pounds of ice sculptures and displays. Cirque Dreams Unwrapped will entertain your family in the Atrium, get festive at the Christmas Village which allows you to decorate gingerbread houses, ice skate, enjoy milk and cookies with Mrs. Claus and more. 
  • Mount Vernon by candlelight- Join Mount Vernon’s residents and visitors for a festive evening. The experience begins in the Ford Orientation Center, where you can enjoy the sounds of the holiday season and view spectacular Christmas trees highlighting the lives of the Washingtons. After the tour concludes, continue the experience by visiting the Greenhouse and participating in 18th-century dancing, just as the Washingtons might have done during the holidays. Enjoy cookies while sipping warm cider, listening to fireside caroling, and paying a visit to Aladdin the Christmas camel. The evening will conclude with live music in the Education Center Lobby and an opportunity to visit the Education Center exhibits and The Shops.
  • Go to a movie: Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2, Grinch 2, The Nutcracker and the 4 Realms, Mowgli

Need last minute Thanksgiving decor? Check out Caravan Shoppe for downloadable (send to a local print shop) interactive decorations! Pictured below

Friday and beyond
#OptOutside with REI
REI thinks spending time outdoors is more important that shopping! They pay their employees to #OptOutside on Friday and invite you to join.

  • Zoo Lights at The National Zoo opens Friday
  • Downtown Frederick Partnership in celebrating their 16th annual Frosty on Friday. Help spread holiday cheer with a full day of early and late shopping hours, carriage and trolley rides, caroling & , and fun seasonal activities.
  • Reston Town Center Holiday Parade & The Reston community kicks off the holiday season with a full day celebration including a holiday parade, visits with Santa, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and more on Friday.
  • Plenty of volunteer opportunities
  • ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas at the Gaylord National Resort ICE! is a signature holiday attraction open Nov. 16-Jan. 1. Watch Charlie Brown rediscover the meaning of Christmas as the beloved story unfolds through two million pounds of ice sculptures and displays. Cirque Dreams Unwrapped will entertain your family in the Atrium, get festive at the Christmas Village which allows you to decorate gingerbread houses, ice skate, enjoy milk and cookies with Mrs. Claus and more. 
  • Mount Vernon by candlelight- Join Mount Vernon’s residents and visitors for a festive evening. The experience begins in the Ford Orientation Center, where you can enjoy the sounds of the holiday season and view spectacular Christmas trees highlighting the lives of the Washingtons. After the tour concludes, continue the experience by visiting the Greenhouse and participating in 18th-century dancing, just as the Washingtons might have done during the holidays. Enjoy cookies while sipping warm cider, listening to fireside caroling, and paying a visit to Aladdin the Christmas camel. The evening will conclude with live music in the Education Center Lobby and an opportunity to visit the Education Center exhibits and The Shops.
  • Maryland Christmas Show at the Frederick Fairgrounds –Nothing brings back the yuletide spirit quite like the Maryland Christmas Show. For the 34th season visitors from near and far will discover the joys of shopping at Maryland’s premier Christmas event. The Maryland Christmas Show, located in historic Frederick City, brings together many fine artisans and merchants to make your holiday shopping an enjoyable event. Two weekend event; November 16, 17 & 18 November 23, 24 & 25
  • Cut Your Own Christmas Tree with this great list from Trip Savvy
  • Downtown Holiday Market– The 14th Annual Downtown Holiday Market is located on the F Street sidewalk in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum & National Portrait Gallery between 7th & 9th Streets, NW. Bringing a unique and festive shopping “village” to the heart of Downtown DC, the market features more than 150 regional artisans, crafters and boutique businesses of ethnically produced goods. Hundreds of diverse gift items, such as jewelry, pottery, paintings, and textiles will be offered by 60 exhibitors each day.
  • Washington Capitals take on Detroit on Friday for a 4:00pm face-off
  • NSO Pops: Walt Disney Animation Studios—A Decade in Concert at The Kennedy Center. Scenes from Frozen, Moana, Zootopia & more with LIVE music. Friday-Sunday

Related Posts:

Ice skating, holiday light displays and more outdoor fun

Holiday shows, ballets and concerts

Holiday tea

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Filed Under: Fall, Holiday Options, Weekend Picks Tagged: Black Friday, DC, holiday, thanksgiving, thanksgiving weekend, Washington

A family-friendly Labor Day in Washington, DC

August 29, 2018

64th Annual Greenbelt Parade and Festival takes place Aug. 31 – Sept. 3

The Washington Nats are hosting the Brewers Labor Day weekend and have fun promotions happening.

Labor Day Art Show at Glen Echo

Saturday

Lake Ann Jazz Festival

Sunday

National Symphony Orchestra: Labor Day Capitol Concert

Monday

Herndon Labor Day Festival 

Kensington, Maryland 51st Annual Parade and Festival

Old Towne Gaithersburg Parade

Don’t miss:
The National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party Series, Fun House which closes September 3
18th Library of Congress National Book Festival at the Washington Convention Center on September 1
Splashing around

Day & overnight trips:

Day or overnight trips to the beach or a state park

In Shenandoah National Park, hike from waterfall to waterfall, climb the rocky Old Rag Mountain, go biking or take a guided horseback ride. If you need to cool off, head over to Shenandoah River Outfitters and go rafting, tubing or kayaking on the shady river. 75 miles from downtown D.C. at its northernmost point; see all park entrances here.

Take a step back in time in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.  Although West Virginia is a small state, it’s packed with history and beautiful scenery. Kids will have fun visiting this National Historical Park. Visit Harpers Ferry for the Civil War history and re-enactors. Hike one of the many trails in the area for a spectacular view of three states—West Virginia, Virginia and Maryland—at once. Amtrak provides one train from Union Station to Harpers Ferry per day but it’s a short at about 67 miles from D.C. Harpers Ferry Adventure Center can get your hooked up with kayaks, tubes and more if you’re feeling adventurous.

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Filed Under: Holiday Options, Weekend Picks Tagged: baseball, day trip, DC, Festivals, Labor Day, labor day 2018, Nats, overnight trip, parades, Washington

Outdoor fun in and around Washington, DC

July 26, 2018

(Photo: United States Botanic Garden)

Washington, DC

National Arboretum
Explore the 446 acres with 9.5 miles of winding roadways, the famous Capitol columns, nature walks, season specific displays and the Washington Youth Garden. 

United States Botanic Garden and Children’s Garden
Admission to the U.S. Botanic Garden is free.The Conservatory and National Garden are open every day of the year from 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM, and the National Garden has extended evening hours staying open until 7 p.m. from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Bartholdi Park is open every day of the year from dawn till dusk. Explore the outdoor Children’s Garden in the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory where kids can grow their imaginations while checking out a variety of colorful garden plants. The Children’s Garden gives kids a chance to get hands-on in a garden where they can explore and use gardening tools and watering cans.

Franciscan Monastery.
Walk around the gardens or even take a garden tour on Saturdays and admire the incredible architecture.

Smithsonian National Zoo
Always free of charge and open 364 days a year, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex. Founded in 1889, the Zoo sits on 163 acres in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Rock Creek Park and is home to more than 1,500 animals across 300 different species.

Rock Creek Park
An oasis in the city. Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation’s capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, and thousands of years of human history. Find many things to do here. 

Washington National Cathedral
Explore Bishop’s Garden, go on a scavenger hunt, play at Beauvoir Playground and more fun for kids can be found here.

Yards Park
The Yards Park, a premier waterfront destination, provides green space and water features for all to enjoy the outdoors along the Anacostia River. This award-winning park is an ideal place for recreation, special events, and festivals throughout the year. See schedule of events for more fun throughout the year. Head on to the water with the help of Ballpark Boathouse. 

Smithsonian National Zoo
Always free of charge and open 364 days a year, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex. Founded in 1889, the Zoo sits on 163 acres in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Rock Creek Park and is home to more than 1,500 animals across 300 different species.

Nationals Park
Nationals Park is located in Southeast Washington, south of the Capitol, along the fast-developing Capitol Riverfront adjacent to the Navy Yard and home to the Washington Nationals. The new park not only redefines modern sports facility architecture but also serves as the catalyst and cornerstone of a new mixed-use Capitol Riverfront in our nation’s capital. Tour the ball park April-November.

The Wharf DC
Newly opened and has lots to do, eat, see and play!

Rock Creek Park Horse Center
This horse center is truly a gem in our nation’s capital.  Deep in the woods of Rock Creek Park, you can find peace in the company of horses and those who love them. They offer boarding, camps, lessons and trail rides for equestrians at all skill levels.

(Photo: Audubon Naturalist Society)

Maryland

Lake Needwood
Enjoy the beautiful 75-acre Lake Needwood in rental kayaks, rowboats, canoes or pedal boats, or on a tour of the lake aboard the Needwood Queenduring the summer season. They have beach areas you can lay your towels out and bring your sand toys. Fishing is permitted at both lakes in Rock Creek Regional Park: Lake Needwood and Lake Frank (just 10 minutes away).Visit the Boat House for boat rentals and boating permits; fishing equipment, including bamboo fishing poles, hooks, bobbers, bait and bottled water for sale. The new accessible/ADA compliant dock and launch system makes it possible for people with limited mobility to launch both canoes and kayaks.

Dinosaur Park
Saturdays of each month, 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Garden and play area open daily, sunrise to sunset. (Located near Climb Zone)

Capital Crescent Trail
The Capital Crescent Trail (CCT) is a shared use off-road trail from Georgetown, D.C. to Silver Spring, MD, suitable for walkers, joggers, bikers, and rollerbladers. 

Audubon Naturalist Society
Weekend Walk in the Woods: Join a Master Naturalists on the first Saturday of each month from 9-10am for a nature hike around Woodend Sanctuary. Each hike will have a unique and engaging natural history theme. Programs are appropriate for members of all ages. Programs are free but require registration. REGISTER HERE

Nature Backpacks: Visit the Naturalist Shop to check out a themed backpack (ID required) that will have tools and activities you and your family can use to explore nature at Woodend Sanctuary. Photo above shows my Bambinos journaling and creating art from the materials from the backpack we checked out. 

Pirate Adventures on the Cheasapeake
See our review and read about the fun we had here.

Brookside Gardens
Brookside Gardens is Montgomery County’s incomparable, award-winning 50-acre public display garden situated within Wheaton Regional Park. Included in the gardens are several distinct areas: Aquatic Garden, Azalea Garden, Butterfly Garden, Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Style Garden, Trial Garden, Rain Garden, and the Woodland Walk. Admission to the gardens is free. Wings of Fancy is a live butterfly and caterpillar exhibit. 

Cabin John Regional Park
A very shaded, large park with an “older” area and a “younger” area. Many climbing structures, cars or trains to sit in, slides, play houses, and swings. They have a ride-on train that takes you through the woods and runs every 30 minutes in the summer. 

Hiking Trails and Great Falls
Billy Goat Trail is an Epic Trail Trilogy: There are three sections that make up the Billy Goat Trail: A, B, and C. You can access all three of them off the towpath between Great Falls Tavern and Carderock (Anglers is between section A and B). All three combined are approximately 8 miles. Section A is a technical and strenuous hike. Section B is challenging, and Section C is an easier hike. All three have beautiful scenery and views of the Potomac River- and spotty cell service.
Great Falls: At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. The Patowmack Canal offers a glimpse into the early history of this country.  Great Falls Park has many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from the Nation’s Capital.
Junior Ranger Program for Kids: Children 5 and up are invited to participate in the Junior Ranger Program. The program is an exciting experience for those wanting to explore the park. There are two booklets, grouped by age, which can be signed out at the Visitor Center desk. Most Junior Rangers complete the booklet in one to two hours, but may take as much time as they wish to finish. Children who complete the booklet earn a Junior Ranger Badge to honor their accomplishments.

Watkins Regional Park
This park has playgrounds, trails, picnic areas, a Nature Center, the Chesapeake Carousel, Old Maryland Farm, the Watkins Regional Park miniature train and much more.

Wheaton Regional Park
Amazing and enormous park! Your family can spend all day playing and picnicking here. New playground with three slides each a different height. There are climbing structures, swings and a sand pit. They have an old fashioned carousel and a train ride that goes through the park every half hour in the summer. The train goes through a tunnel and over a small bridge.

(Photo by Stefanie Harrington: Pirate Adventures on the Cheasapeake)

Virginia

Netherlands Carillon
The 50 bells of the Netherlands Carillon hang in an open steel tower, a symbol of Dutch regard for American aid during and after World War II. The carillon’s peaceful setting, with its floral libraries and sculpted lions, is the perfect place to listen to the music of the bells. The grounds of the Netherlands Carillon offer sweeping views of Washington, DC. In temperate weather the grassy slope and large shade trees form a perfect picnic spot. A computer plays automated concerts on the carillon each day at noon and 6 pm. A guest artist plays a live concert on the carillon each Saturday in June, July, and August from 6 pm to 8 pm. Special holiday concerts take place on Memorial Day and Labor Day from 2 pm to 4 pm. To request a ranger program about the Netherlands Carillon please call 703-235-1530.

Frying Pan Farm
Frying Pan preserves and interprets farm life of the 1920s to 1950s. See events here.

Roer’s ZooFari
Hop on board and take a narrated tour through a free roaming safari. Feed and learn about animals such as zebra, bison, watsui, buffalo, deer, llamas and many more. Enjoy feeding and petting sheep, goats, rabbits, and many more barnyard favorites! Bottle feed baby goats! You can even feed some of our exotic animals like a giraffe, camels, and more! All feed options are available for purchase at the admission booth and at the gift shop. Walk into our special free flight aviary and let the adventure begin! You can feed these gentle, colorful birds as they land on your feed stick.

Leesburg Animal Park
The Leesburg Animal Park is a family-owned and operated business that opened in March of 2000. The Park has many animal residents that you can meet, pet and feed. Enter the “Contact Area” to roam around with farm animals such as goats, sheep and llamas. Jump onto a Wagon Ride, take a Pony Ride or join a Live Animal Show! We offer an up-close animal experience that you won’t get at a larger zoo.

Gravelly Point
Gravelly Point is an area within the National Park Service’s George Washington Memorial Parkway in Arlington. It is located on the west side of the Potomac River, north of Roaches Run and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The paved Mount Vernon Trail travels through the area. Airplanes fly right overhead passing over Gravelly Point while approaching the airport– like literally over your head! It’s a perfect spot for a picnic.

Burke Lake Park
Newly renovated playgrounds and a train, carousel, ice cream parlor, nature trails, a lake, fishing, boating, and soccer fields. Burke Lake Park has something for everyone tucked away in its 888 acres. Whether it’s riding on the miniature train or carousel, picnicking, testing your skills on the mini-golf or disc golf courses, indulging in a scoop of ice cream, taking in the sights from the tour boat, fishing, biking, boating, camping, or taking a walk around the 4.7 mile lake trail, Burke Lake is the perfect place to start you next family tradition. With so much to do you won’t want to leave and thanks to our campgrounds you can feel free to spend the whole weekend with us or even the week! When you visit you can also take advantage of the many family-friendly classes, camps, and special events. 

King Street Trolley
Discover a convenient, environmentally friendly and fun way to get around Old Town Alexandria. The King Street Trolley transports riders between the King Street Metrorail Station and the Potomac River waterfront. The trolley runs daily every 15 minutes. With many stops for hopping on and off to explore the shops, restaurants and attractions found along Alexandria’s historic main street. Trolley runs all day, beginning at 10am.

Clemyjontri Park
The park features a unique playground where children of all abilities can play side-by-side. It is a playground where every child is welcome. This park is a place where children who use wheelchairs, walkers or braces, or who have sensory or developmental disabilities, can have a parallel playground experience of fun and exploration. This is by far the largest playground we have gone to and there is even a carousel. 

Need an adult getaway? Try the W&OD (Washington & Old Dominion)Trail. Bike Arlington lays out a 2-day ride for you to hit breweries along the way.

Other Related Posts:

Beach and State Parks

Orchards in our area for you to pick-your-own seasonal fruit year round can be found here.

Watch free, outdoor movies in the summer!

Splish, splash, cool off and practice those strokes at these waterparks, pools and splash pads.

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Filed Under: Outdoor Play Tagged: DC, explore, maryland, outdoor fun, outside, virginia, Washington

Best ice cream in Washington, DC

June 28, 2018

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream in Washington, DC! It doesn’t have to be summer for me to grab a scoop (or two). But with the weather we are having, all of us need a place to head to for a quick cool off which also involves a treat. There’s nothing like a good scoop of ice cream or an ice cold popsicle.

But first let me introduce you to FrutaPOP. They are a small-batch, hand-crafted ice pop company, specializing in natural fruit and juice ice pops, coffee ice pops and alcohol infused ice pops. FrutaPOP is the first of it’s kind to contain healthy, natural ingredients without any added sugars. All of the alcohol-infused ice pops, also known as “POPTAILS” contain 5% ABV or less. You can order in quantities of 12, 24, 36 & 48. Think Mimosa and Sangria Poptails and Fruit & Juice pops (non-alcoholic) for your next pool party! Use code: BELTWAYBAMBINOS for 15% your order; perfect for a summer bbq or sitting poolside. 

Did you know Maryland has nine dairy farms that offer fresh, delicious on-farm ice cream? Together, they make up the “Maryland’s Best Ice Cream Trail.” Visit each creamery and get a trail passport stamped to be named Maryland’s Ice Cream Trail Blazer! Sounds like a delicious summer bucket-list item.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream

THE. BEST. (#notanad) Always a line, definitely worth waiting in, enough said, go and get some scoops, report back. 

The Baked Bear

Homemade cookies from original recipes and hand-scooped on site, cookies are made with the highest quality ingredients and baked fresh from scratch every day. Baked Bear craft ice cream is made with the highest quality ingredients around and is a step above the traditional, using an all-natural mix made only with rBGH-free cream, pure cane sugar and natural stabilizers. 

Trickling Springs Creamery

An old-fashioned dairy store serving ice cream, milk shakes, milk and cookies at Eastern Market. Do you want to take some ice cream home with you after hanging out at Union Market?  No problem. They have 3 full freezer doors stocked with Trickling Springs FarmFriend ice creams, Trickling Springs Organic ice creams, and Little Baby’s ice cream.

Ice Cream Jubilee

I found out about ICJ because of the mouth-watering Instagram photos everyone posts and then I realized you can order from UberEats! The best flavors come from the best ingredients.  They use only all-natural cream and milk from a local creamery, just 50 miles from our scoop shop in Washington, DC.  and are proud about the small-batch technique – just a few gallons at a time – allows to create the highest-quality product and the freshest flavors.

Millie’s

Brought to you by the owners of Surfside, Jetties, etc. Walk up to an outdoor ice-cream stand (attached to the take-out hut) and grab delicious scoops.

Class 520

The very first Thai-inspired ice cream establishment opening in the state of Maryland. Handcrafted rolls made with no preservatives or stabilizers, so you know it’s fresh.

Broad Branch Market

A market that has most everything you need at a higher price but you feel like you live in Mayfield when you walk in. They have a freezer of about 8 flavors to get a scoop and a freezer of novelties. 

Nicecream Factory

Handcrafted ice cream is their passion. They start our process by combining fresh milk and local ingredients from nearby farms. Using a freezing agent, liquid nitrogen, then freeze the ice cream on the spot in front of guests, creating the freshest handcrafted cup of ice cream you can get.

Larry’s Ice Cream

This family business, open since 1985, is well-known for the owner’s surly demeanor and delicious, homemade ice cream. With classic flavors like cookie dough and unique flavors like Key West chocolate, there’s something for everyone here.  

Thomas Sweet

This extensive sweets shop is complete with homemade fudge and chocolates, freshly baked pastries and paninis—in addition to ice cream. The specialty here is the one-of-a-kind ‘blend ins’ with homemade ice cream. It’s not a place for the indecisive as they have a chalkboard full of flavors like peanut butter chip, vanilla cherry and our favorite, coffee Oreo. Keep in mind that the kiddie-sized cup is very large—about 2 scoops of ice cream.

The Dairy Godmother

This summer, you’ll find some exciting new additions at this custard shop. Stick with what you know and get Wisconsin-style frozen custard in vanilla or chocolate every day, or try the flavor of the day. Tollhouse cookie and toasted almond are both on the schedule; see all the upcoming flavors of the day here. They’ll also be offering Exotic Ice Pops this summer along with Frozen Custard Cake and Puppy Pops—a treat for your dog!

Moorenko’s Ice Cream

This ice cream brand, which is sold around the NE corridor, is made right here in D.C.! They even have a small shop where you can go for freshly made, hand-crafted ice cream. They’ve got the classic flavors as well as some unique flavors like Guinness, Rice Pudding and Cotton Candy Gummy Bear.

Captain Cookie and the Milkman

What started as a food truck serving milk and cookies and ice cream sandwiches, now has 3 food trucks you can see schedule locations here. For those of us who can’t make it to a truck stop, there is an actual location. They also deliver!

Jetties

Serving Gifford’s ice cream, Jetties is not just an ice cream shop, but also well-known for delicious sandwiches and salads. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch and a scoop for dessert, with the option of adding toppings like sprinkles and crushed Oreos to your cone.

Sfoglina 

Italian Soft Serve Gelato: Your Choice of Tahitian Vanilla & or Strawberry Sorbetto. Sounds boring but I promise you will want to go back the next day for another!

Oldies but Goodies:

Dolcezza Gelato

Dolci Gelati

Pitango Gelato

Godiva

Ben & Jerry’s

YogiBerry

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(Photo: Pleasant Pops)

And for those who enjoy a nice, cold popsicle we didn’t forget you–

Pleasant Pops

All original recipes made with fresh ingredients. Flavors rotate constantly as they run out. To name a few; Can also be found at various Farmer’s Markets and Food Trucks, check site.

Whim Pop

Whim Pop integrates flavors of the world on a healthy, fresh and cool environment by creating unique delicacies in a variety of exotic flavors and presentations. Whim Pop is your answer for that unexplained desired of something unique and guilt free! Can also be found at various Farmer’s Markets, check site.

FrutaPop

A small-batch, hand-crafted ice pop company, specializing in natural fruit and juice ice pops, coffee ice pops and alcohol infused ice pops. FrutaPOP is the first of it’s kind to contain healthy, natural ingredients without any added sugars. All of the alcohol-infused ice pops, also known as “POPTAILS” contain 5% ABV or less. You can order in quantities of 12, 24, 36 & 48. Order online and use code: BELTWAYBAMBINOS for 15% your order!!!

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Filed Under: Food, Summer Tagged: cool off, DC, ice cream, popsicle, summer, treat, Washington

Birthday party ideas for older kids in and around Washington, DC

May 7, 2018

I love planning our Bambinos birthday parties but as our son has gotten older, his requests have gotten more precise and less intense. I do appreciate his taste for not having a big, blown out celebration and our bank account also thanks his simple request. He wants to play a baseball game with his friends at a local park (again)– which is how he celebrated turning 5. After applying for the permit at the park, I decided to create a new birthday post in preparation of his future parties as well as for all of you with an older crew who have outgrown some of the ideas on previous birthday posts we’ve created (see bottom of this post). 

Invicta Sports Club Archery Party

American Parkour

ZavaZone: Trampoline & Indoor Adventure Park

Shawdowland Laser

Bach to Rock
Rock Birthday Party (Ages 7+)

Karaoke Birthday Party (Ages 6+)
Rock City Birthday Party (Ages 4 – 6)
DJ Birthday Party (Ages 10+)

Game Truck of Northern Virginia

Rockville Sportsplex
Choose from Small Field Package (soccer or dodgeball),Inflatables, Court (basketball, soccer, dodgeball or hockey) or Field

Washington Nationals game or local baseball game: Bethesda Big Train, Potomac Nationals, Bowie Baysox

Go Kart Track
You must be 54′ to drive by yourself.

iFly Loudoun

Tea with Mrs. B
Or a tea party at one of these fancy hotels

Monster Mini Golf

Pinstripes
Head straight to the bowling lanes for an upscale take on a favorite American pastime and host your party lane-side, or choose one of our customizable private reception rooms accommodating groups of 20 to 240. Packages can include bowling, bocce, or a make-your-own pizza class.

A Game of Rooms
Age minimum 12 years old

The Escape Lounge

The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring Friends School
Teens and adults alike will have a great time ziplining and climbing through the trees!

Other related links:

Birthday party ideas, venues & entertainers in and around Washington, DC

My Gym birthday party

More Indoor Options that may host parties

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Filed Under: Birthday Tagged: birthday, DC, indoor, maryland, older, outdoor, party, virginia, Washington

Recurring Weekday Adventures in and around Washington, DC

April 22, 2018

This will hopefully be one of the posts you save, earmark, print, forward to friends, give to nannies and grandparents because it provides you will a list of places that have a recurring event each week (well, most of them). It also highlights the lack of afternoon activities happening. So if you know of any or have a favorite go-to afternoon spot, please share with us! The end of the post provides you with ongoing events that occur on more than one day of the week at specific places.

Monday-

9:30am: Rise + Rhyme at Busboys & Poets
Rise + Rhyme is a weekly morning storytelling and performance series for children ages 5 and under with the goals of teaching children to engage with their community, learn to love performing and become rising artivists! $5 per child.
Locations in Brookland, Hyattsville & Takoma

9:30am: Harambe at Bloombars
Think of it as your little one’s first opportunity to express his or her voice (into a microphone), dance, play a drum or percussion instrument, shout, or sing-along to songs that build character, confidence and community.

10:00am-11:30am: Toddler Art Time at New Community ArtSpace + Story time
Children and their accompanying adult are encouraged to come to our ongoing kids drop in classes and create age-appropriate art projects. Rachel Dickerson will set up materials for safe, fun, and creative projects. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty in.  Siblings are welcome. $10/child drop in fee. Sign up for our 11 class package and get one class free.  Supply donations welcomed.

10:30am AND 11:00am: Storytime at The National Postal Museum
The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum invites adults and young children (ages 2-3) to discover the world around them together at weekly Story Time. Children will build important developmental and social skills through books, activities, songs, and self-guided gallery exploration. Explore themes, such as shapes, colors, and sizes, in a relaxed setting at your neighborhood museum. Feel free to bring snacks and enjoy the space after the program!

10:30am-11:00am: Songs and stories at Politics and Prose
Come sing-along to your favorite songs for free. Grab a treat in the cafe afterwards or hang out reading books.

Tuesday-

10:00am: Tudor Tots
Keep your toddler active in mind and body and learning about the world around us in these weekly sessions featuring songs, stories, crafts, and movement, all tailored to growing Tots. Each week highlights a different theme. Parents/caregivers remain with children. $5 per class

10:00am: Museum of Natural History’s Butterfly Pavilion
Every Tuesday at 10:00am you can get into the magnificent butterfly pavilion for free! Make sure and get a free ticket by the entrance. We visited this last month and were amazed by how many butterflies were flying around, some even landing on a shoulder. Look closely and you could spot a frog under some trees.

10:00am AND 11:30am: Shadow Puppets at Bloombars
This shadow puppet stage show will feature a variety of characters and menagerie of traditional and original songs. It explores themes that center around the seasons, the environment, as well as learning components of music.

10:30am AND 11:30am: Little Builder’s Storytime at the National Building Museum
Join us on the first Tuesday of each month for an interactive read-aloud in the Building Zone’s book nook. After the story, participate in a corresponding hands on activity to continue the fun! Free with admission to the Building Zone. Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

Wednesday-

10:00am: Story Time at Hirshhorn

10:00am-11:00am: Story Time in the ReSource Room for Pre-Schoolers and Adults at National Archives
Join us for story time designed for 3-5 year olds and accompanying adults. Typically the 3rd Wednesday of the month.

10:00am-11:00am: Little Treasures at Bloombars
Artist in Bloom Resident Tamika Love Jones presents Little Treasures, an educational and interactive journey for babies and children (under age 3) that explores a special box of little treasures. Each treasure that is picked from the box will lead tots and parents to sing their favorite songs, read fun stories and explore their bodies through exciting movement. The theme of Little treasures is self-love and teaching the tots that they, too, are little treasures!

10:30am AND 1:30pm: Children’s Program at US Botanic Garden
Each month has a different theme for ages 3-5. ***Program booked for May, calendar not updated to show if this will continue through summer.

10:30am: Storytime at The Park at City Center
Join CityCenterDC and DCPL for Kids Corner! Librarians from the DC Public Library will lead a 30-40 minute FREE story time full of books, songs, rhymes and fingerplays! Story time is a great way to introduce your child to language skills in a positive and fun, outdoor environment. May 10 – September 27

5:30pm: Samba Baby at Bloombars
Join Zezeh Brazil (Sao Paolo), former carnaval queen, radio personality and dance instructor extraordinaire for child & family samba dance lessons. It’s never too early to learn the infectious dance of the world’s 5th largest country. Samba Kids is the perfect introduction to movement and rhythm, not to mention Portuguese. The classes starts with yoga followed by a dance class to the sound of Brazilian carnival music for kids.

Thursday-

10:00am: Fish Tales Story Hour at DOEE’s Aquatic Resources Education Center
Join staff biologists monthly for free nature-based stories, crafts, and songs for 2-5 year olds and their parents/guardians! Register online  Typically the first Thursday of the month.

10:30am: Live Music with Boogie Babes at Eastern Market
The Boogie Babes program brings interactive musical performances for young children and their caregivers each week to area neighborhoods. The events, typically 45 minutes in length, provide a wonderful way to expose children to different musical instruments and styles while also raising funds for and awareness of DC Diaper Bank’s work and mission. $6 per child

10:30am: Live Kids Shows at Jammin Java

10:30am: Preschool Series at Hillwood Estate
Experience the wonder of Hillwood with your preschooler! Explore a new mansion room each week of this three-part series through make believe, art projects, and imaginative play. Each class is limited to 10 children ages 2 to 5, each with one accompanying adult. $10 per class

10:30am-11:30am: Parent & Child Program: Snugglers at the US Botanic Garden
Do you have a tiny treasure in a snuggly? Looking for ways to get out of the house and learn? Join us each Thursday for a 45-minute guided tour of the Conservatory. Each week will be a different exploration. This program is designed for parents and care providers who have a tiny one in a snuggly. Please note: You are welcome to arrive with a stroller, however due to our narrow paths and the nature of this program, we cannot support strollers or older siblings during the actual program.

Friday-

10:00am-12:00pm: Open Play at Little Loft Art Studio
Open play in the Sensory Room for 2-5 year olds and their caregivers. Sand table, rice table, light table, and a new interactive art project each week. No preregistration necessary. $12/visit, half price for siblings

10:30am: Story Time at Library of Congress
For six months, from March through August, the Library’s Young Readers Center will host story time on the last Friday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in the Thomas Jefferson Building, located at 10 First St. S.E., Washington, D.C. Tickets are not required for this event, which is free and open to the public.

10:30am: Live Kids Shows at Jammin Java

1:00pm-6:00pm: Open Studio at National Portrait Gallery
Join us on Friday afternoons for some creative fun! Check out a Portrait Discovery Kit to explore the museum. You may also explore a different art material each week as it relates to portraiture. Education Center, Room E151.

 

Events on Multiple Days of the Week-

Tudor Tots (Currently Monday & Tuesdays)

Preschool Series at Hillwood Estate (Currently Wednesday & Thursdays)

Tinkergarten

Smithsonian National Zoo Classes

Open Gym at Silver Stars Gymnastics

Toddler Time at SkyZone

The Puppet Co Main Stage & Tiny Tot Performances

My Gym Classes

Fit4Mom Classes at Union Market– Currently Tuesday & Thursdays at 9:30am
Stroller Strides is a total fitness program that moms can do with their babies. It includes power walking and intervals of strength and body toning exercises using exercise tubing, the stroller and the environment. Taught by certified and specially trained fitness instructors, it is a great workout for any level of exerciser. Stroller Strides instructors weave songs and activities into the routine designed to entertain and engage baby, while moms are led through a series of exercises specific to her role as mom.

Pinstripes Kid’s Bowling
Join us every weekday morning from 10 am to 12 pm for Kids Club Bowling. Kids bowl for $3 per hour with a $3 shoe rental and parents bowl free! Please limit four kids (12 & under) per adult.

DC Library

Story time at National Portrait Gallery– 2:00pm-2:30pm Tuesday-Friday
Story time in our Explore! space immerses you in tales of artists, presidents, inventors, athletes, and more! Before or after story time, enjoy our family space where you can play and learn about portraiture. All ages welcome. No reservation required.

Story time at National Air & Space Museum (Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center)

Story time at National Air & Space Museum (Downtown Mall)

Fall Classes in and around Washington, DC

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Filed Under: Weekday Adventures Tagged: classes, DC, events, Washington, Weekday

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