Beltway Bambinos

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

A quick and easy getaway to Madison, Virginia

Like many others, our family needed an escape from the four walls of our home that we had come to know so well over the year. The criteria for the trip since we were still in a pandemic was that we needed wide open and outdoor spaces to explore. We found a great airbnb in Madison, Virginia (which was under 2 hours from DC) located on 50+ acres, built in the 1800’s. It was a road trip measured by moments instead of mile markers; exactly what our family needed!

The home was the perfect combination of charm and comfort. The dog-friendly property had an indoor fireplace, outdoor fire pit, rooms with touches that reminded us of its rich history and space that had us dreaming of the future with extended family or friends staying in this home with us.

Aside from the acres upon acres to explore we also found hikes nearby as well as a great park; Hoover Ridge. There was a playground, walking trails, pond, driving range and dog park. In addition, they had a festive scavenger hunt throughout a trail and it looks like they organize several fun events similar to the hunt we experience, throughout the year. Near our airbnb was also an Amish Country Store and Petting Zoo called Yoder’s. They also had a playground and a petting zoo that our kids (and dog) liked. The animals range from pheasants and mandarin ducks to sheep and goats.

A 35 minute drive from Madison you can find yourself on the sprawling campus of The University of Virginia in Charlottesville. We walked around campus for awhile telling our kids stories about our college experiences {not at UVA} and discussing the designs of the campus done by Thomas Jefferson. Later we found ourselves watching our kids put on a play in the outdoor amphitheater. We grabbed a takeout lunch from a restaurant on East Main Street in Charlottesville. That street is permanently closed for cars which makes it nice to be able to casually stroll around.

After three nights it was time to head home. We took a roundabout way to get home because we wanted to drive along Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park and end up at Luray Caverns. The drive was amazing– we lucked out with there being snow which made it so magical. The views were incredible with several spots to pull over and there are also several hiking trails throughout. I highly recommend this relaxing and serene drive anytime of year! It takes about three hours to travel the entire length of the Park on a clear day without stopping to hike.

Luray Caverns is the largest cavern in the eastern United States. The cavern is generously adorned with speleothems such as columns, mud flows, stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and mirrored pools and was discovered in 1878. When you enter you will feel as if you are in an optical illusion as you see the reflection from the lake in the cavern.

Aside from going in the caverns Luray Caverns also has an outdoor garden maze which we did and had a blast trying to find or way through!

There is an outdoor Rope Adventure Park, Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Toy Town Junction, gem sluice, and the Shenandoah Heritage Village. We didn’t do the those listed above but you can easily spend a day here doing all they offer. Bring a picnic and sit by the large pond and feed ducks in between activities.

Direct links-
Bald Top Brewery: 1830 Thrift Rd, Madison, VA 22727
Hoover Ridge Park: 199 Primary School Dr, Madison, VA 22727
Yoder’s Country Market & Petting Zoo: 2105 S. Seminole Tr, Madison, VA 22727
The University of Virginia: 400 Emmet Street South, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Skyline Drive: 4 entry points
Luray Caverns: 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835

Additional local attractions-
Monticello
Montpelier
Madison Farmers Market

Spring break camps in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC

Maryland

Red Panda Art Studio– TBA
(5110 Ridgefield Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816)
Join a full session of sensory play and art activities related to the day’s theme. Join for one day or all week! Camp is for kids ages 3-8.

Brit-Am Soccer– April 6-10, 2020
(Next Level: 5420 Butler Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816)
This camp is great for every soccer player in Kindergarten-grade 6, experienced or beginner. Each day starts with a full camp activity which consists of energetic games to get them excited and ready for play. The players are then divided into groups, where they will work on their individual skills and play lots of fun small sided games. Each morning of camp will finish off with the World Cup Competition which is a small tournament with prizes for the winners. During the week we also hold mini competitions to find the “Best Dressed Soccer Uniform” and “Crazy Soccer Hat”. The afternoons are all about scoring goals with shooting games and small group and individual competitions. Campers play their favorite games such as power finesse, swedish fish and penalty shoot outs. After-care option is available.

My Gym– April 6-10 & April 13, 2020
(Bethesda & Potomac locations)
When school is off, My Gym camp is on! Drop your kids ages 3-9 off for three hours of cool and nonstop fun at My Gym including themed games, crafts, gymnastics, sports and snack! Potty Independent please.

Dance Exchange– April 6-10, 2020
(7117 Maple Ave Takoma Park, MD 20912)
Keep your young mover active during breaks as they explore dance in many forms—and create their own choreography. In these week-long camps, youth ages 6-10 move and make alongside Dance Exchange artists and guest artists to explore dance from tango to hip hop, classical to contemporary. Youth will explore what dance and creativity is and can do—both in the studio and out in the world. Camps end with youth blending what they learn into original choreography. 

KOA Multisport Camp– April 6-10, 2020
(4960 Boiling Brook Parkway North Bethesda, MD 20852)
Spring Break means school’s out, so lets’s play! Join Koa Sports for our Multisport Spring Break Camp at Koa HQ. This camp is for kids in PreK- grade 8 looking to be active and have fun while school is out for the week. They have access to outdoor fields at Jewish Day Upper School & swimming will take place at Kids First Swim School (under Koa HQ). This program does have limited registration, so sign up now to reserve your spot!

CREATE Arts Center– April 6-10 & April 13-17, 2020
(914 Silver Spring Ave Silver Spring, MD 20910)
Campers ages 6-12 spend each day working on a variety of art projects, including painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, and more! Flexible day-by-day registration is available as is before and after-care.

Badlands– April 6-10, 2020
(5200 Randolph Road, Rockville, MD 20852)
Due to popular demand, Badlands is launching their first ever Spring Break Camp. Join for five days of themed activities and learning. From Disney day to wacky hair day… EVERY day will be an adventure.

Imagination Stage– April 6-10, 2020
(4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, MD 20814)
Imagination Stage offers week-long Spring Break camps jam-packed with acting, dance, musical theatre, and creative drama for students in grades K-12 to enjoy during their days off of school.

MSA– April 6-10, 2020
(Hoover MS, 8810 Postoak Rd, Potomac, MD 20854)
Spring Break multi-sports and enrichment camp is designed by sports champions to help young athletes realize their optimal performance in their favorite sports. MSA offers a spectacular multi-sport & enrichment camp providing a well-rounded experience combining learning and fun, to build fond memories that will last a lifetime. Before and after-care available.

Dynamite Gymnastics– April 6-10 & April 13, 2020
(4956 Boiling Brook Pkwy, North Bethesda, MD 20852)
(16814 Oakmont Ave. Gaithersburg, MD 20877)
Need a safe, fun place for your kids to get their energy out? Never fear, Dynamite offers “School’s Out” day camps! Kids will enjoy a variety of activities including hours of gymnastics instruction, free play, arts and crafts, and games! 

Bolt Parkour– April 6-10 & April 13, 2020
(4950 Boiling Brook Pkwy. North Bethesda, MD 20852)
Need a place for your kids to get all that energy out during vacation and days off from school? Bring them to Bolt for an awesome camp experience including parkour instruction, races, games, and free play! Bolt offers day camp programs for kids and teens ages 6 and up.

The Agility Center– April 6-10 & April 13, 2020
(4990 Boiling Brook Pkwy. North Bethesda, MD 20852)
Need a safe, fun place for your kids to get their energy out? Never fear, send them to “school’s out” day camps! Kids will enjoy a variety of activities including hours of obstacle course, trampoline and tumbling instruction, practice/play time, arts and crafts, and games. Offering different options: full day, half day morning or afternoon, with or without lunch, and before and after care.

Glen Echo Aquarium– April 6-10, 2020
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD 20812)
The Glen Echo Park Aquarium (GEPA) offers spring break camps (single day) for children ages 4-7 and 8-12. These are 6 hour long camps that include exploring the outdoors, discovering the aquatic and terrestrial world, performing science experiments, and creating art and crafts to enhance learning.

Valley Mill– April 6-10 & April 13-17, 2020
(15101 Seneca Rd Germantown, MD 20874)
Valley Mill Camp offers a Spring Break Camp for children ages 5 to 14.
Weather permitting, they do their usual fun activities at camp: kayaking and canoeing, archery & air rifle, rock climbing, group games, playing in the creek, and hikes. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, campers check out indoor adventures. Transportation will be from pick up points in nearby Montgomery County and DC.

Silver Stars Gymnastics– April 6-18, 2020
(2701 Pittman Dr. Silver Spring, MD 20910)
(14201 Woodcliff Ct. Bowie, MD 20720)
Choose one day or all week, half day or full day. They offer three camps for kids 3.5-15 at both locations.

Adventure Theatre– April 6-10, 2020
(7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD 20812)
Send your kids to come play with Adventure Theatre MTC where they will have a full day of theatrical activities, afternoon snack.  You can choose one day or the full week.  Camp is for children in grades K-5.

The Children’s Art Studio– April 6-9, 2020
(Bethesda Elementary School: 7600 Arlington Rd Bethesda, MD 20814)
Over the course of each week, kids ages 5-10 will work on drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, and printing. Your child will have a blast and bring home beautiful, artwork made with a wide range of high-quality materials. Time will be spent each day playing outside, reading, quietly drawing and looking at illustrated books and art history monographs. The bulk of the day will be spent making art, however. Children will receive instructive lessons on technique and have time to work on open-ended projects, all in an upbeat, supportive environment.

Virginia

The St. James– April 6-10, 2020
(6805 Industrial Rd Springfield, VA 22151)
All sports, all day. From basketball and flag football to dance, gymnastics, swimming and lacrosse, these camps are designed for the ultimate sports enthusiast. They are offering 5 different camps! Experience a state of the art facility and expert instruction. Full day and half day options.

Tea with Mrs. B– April 6-10, 2020
(136 W Jefferson St. Falls Church, VA 22046)
They offer a one of a kind camp experience for kids ages 4-12. Daily activities include: high tea with healthy snacks, crafts and games, exercise at the local park, dance and dress up. They also always afford time for good-old fashioned play, too. By becoming part of the camp, your child will be entitled to an on-going skill building program, honing good manners, proper etiquette and social graces. Broaden your child’s experiences by giving them the gift of comportment while having fun.

Congressional Camp: An Adventure a Day– April 6-9, 2020
(3229 Sleepy Hollow Rd Falls Church, VA 22042)
–Vacation Club: Come join the fun with our Great Adventures team! Children in PreK – grade 2 will love hanging out with their friends and exploring everything our campus has to offer, including our playgrounds, computer labs, and creek walks. Each day, campers will do a fun art, science, or cooking project led by our creative staff who are known for developing a safe, nurturing environment.
–Spring Explorers: Do you enjoy taking adventurous field trips with friends? Each day, children in grade 1-9th grade will visit a different destination in the Greater D.C. area. Exciting trips in the past have included places like local parks, the National Air and Space Museum, putt-putt, Wolf Trap, and water parks, just to name a few. Come experience this spring edition of our popular travel camp programs!
–Colonials & Coasters: Join a 4 day, 3 night Spring Break trip! Campers in grads 3-9 will start by visiting the Williamsburg area to go to historic Williamsburg to explore how Colonial Americans lived and worked before starting the Coasters portion of our trip by spending a full day at Busch Gardens. The group will end its trip by traveling to Kings Dominion to tackling the many Coasters there.

Robot Works– April 6-10, 2020
(8992 Fern Park Drive, Burke, VA 22015)
Let’s build robots during Spring Break! Design, build, and program robots each day. Learn robot design, construction and programming using Mindstorms EV3 or the Arduino microcontroller, including mechanical structure, motors, gears, power, sensors, and much more. Before and after-care available.

Ever Wonder Camp– April 6-10, 2020 & April 13, 2020
(Mount Olivet United Methodist Church: 1500 North Glebe Road Arlington, VA)
Your children in PreK-grade 5 will jump into a time machine and travel back in time to “dig through the decades.”  In this awesome camp they’ll explore the science, technology, engineering, art and math behind the decades.  They’ll twist, shout, doo-wop and be-bop through the 1950’s, create the fashions of the hippies in the 1960’s, love the lava lamp through the 1970’s, “Phone home” in the 1980’s, make your own gadgets in the 1990’s and so much more! Before and after-care option available.
–Backyard Bash Camp on April 13 is the camp’s tradition to celebrate the last day of our school-year camps and this year it is going to be a backyard bash!
There will be a photo booth, a moonbounce, s’mores and play lots of minute to win it games.  This you do not want to miss!

Arts on the Horizon: Stories Come to Life: Under the Big Top– April 6-10, 2020
(1801 N. Quaker Ln. Alexandria, VA 22302)
Step right up and join the greatest show on Earth! Will you become a clown? Will you tame the lions? Maybe you’ll stand in the center as the ringleader! In this creative drama camp, you will use your actor tools (body, voice, and imagination) to bring the Circus to your town! Camp is for children ages 3-6.

Mason Community Arts Academy– April 6-10, 2020
(4260 Chain Bridge Rd Fairfax, VA 22030)
Taught by Acting for Young People faculty, young actors ages 5-12 will experience a variety of games, activities, and projects from our regular theater curriculum of acting, voice, and movement. Various workshops may include improvisation, musical theater, writing a short play – and much more! 

Browne Summer Camp– March 23-27, 2020
(5917 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, VA 22310)
Warmer weather is just around the corner! Campers in PreK- grade 6 will indulge in one week of fun with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities and field trips. Before and after-care options available.

Ashburn Ice House– April 6-10, 2020
(21595 Smith Switch Rd Ashburn, VA 20147)
Learn to Skate USA Camp. Perfect for beginners or intermediate skaters. Campers will enjoy a daily lesson, ice activities and time to practice their skills. Half and full-day options.

Encore Stage and Studio- April 6-10 & April 13-17, 2020
(4000 Lorcom Ln Arlington, VA 22207)
Journey with Encore as they explore the exciting music, movement, and madness of popular stories! Each day they focus on a new theme. Students in grade Kindergarten – 2nd grade will enjoy a day of theatre games, crafts, creative activities, and storytelling in a safe and supportive environment. Students in 3rd – 5th grade will work together to create a brand new play in just one camp day! Using their imaginations, students will develop the script and story, create the setting, and star in the show. This never before seen production will be performed at the end of the day for family and friends.

Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theatre: May The Force Be With You– April 6-10, 2020
(Heritage Presbyterian Church: 8503 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria VA 22308)
Join a galaxy far, far away as they bring the world of Star Wars to life through theatre games, crafts, and the creation of their own Star Wars play!  Channel your inner Princess Leia, Darth Vader, Rey or Yoda to bring to life the strong, dynamic characters of this galactic series.  Learn how to communicate with others, work as a team, develop story-telling skills, and expand your actor’s toolbox in this fun filled spring break experience.  K-8th Grades.  Camps are led by professional teaching artists experienced in working with kids and teens.

SkateQuest– April 6-10, 2020
(1800 Michael Faraday Ct., Reston, VA 20190)
For the child who can’t get enough of the ice. Camp includes ice skating lessons, ice painting, broom ball and an end of camp show. Ages 4.5-12. Friday is a half-day for all, before and after-care available Mon-Thur only.

Spring Break Camp at Dulles SportsPlex– April 6-10, 2020
(21610 Atlantic Blvd. Sterling, VA 20166)
Bring your child ages 4-13, to The Michael & Son Sportsplex At Dulles for a week of fun this spring break camp. If your child enjoys sports or wants to try new sports, this is the camp for you. Your child will have a week of fun, learning and playing sports that might include flag football, soccer, wiffleball, volleyball, basketball, kickball, team handball and others. Drop-in’s are welcome, half day and full day options are available.

Washington, DC

The Children’s Art Studio– April 13-17, 2020
(Capital Memorial Church: 3150 Chesapeake St NW
Washington, DC 20008)
Over the course of each week, kids ages 5-10 will work on drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, and printing. Your child will have a blast and bring home beautiful, artwork made with a wide range of high-quality materials. Time will be spent each day playing outside, reading, quietly drawing and looking at illustrated books and art history monographs. The bulk of the day will be spent making art, however. Children will receive instructive lessons on technique and have time to work on open-ended projects, all in an upbeat, supportive environment.

DC Way Soccer Camp– April 13-17, 2020
(Tyler Elementary School: 1001 G Street SE, 20003)
(RFK Fields: 401 Oklahoma Ave NE, 20002)
Spring into soccer with DC Way’s Spring Break Camp! DC Way’s camp provides players the opportunity to work on technical soccer skills as well as participate in fun games. The DC Way team leads energetic games that combine learning and fun! Your kid will get the most out of their spring break while developing both soccer and cognitive skills in just a few days! Half day, full day, before and after-care options!

HoopEd– March 23-27, 2020 & April 13-17, 2020
(Various locations)
Basketball and all sports camp for kids ages 5-13. After-care is available. 

Spring Safari Day Camp at The National Zoo– April 6-10 & April 13-17, 2020
(3001 Connecticut Ave, NW Washington, DC 20008)
Spring is in the air, but flowers aren’t the only things blooming. So are new programs at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo! This spring break, sign your child up for FONZ’s Spring Safari Day Camp! Each of the Spring Safari programs explores the lives, habitats and conservation of animals around the world. Week-long sessions include exciting hands-on activities, lessons, craft projects, science experiments and walks through the Zoo. There’s no better way to spend your spring break than with Friends of the National Zoo! Before and after-care option available.

Anna Banana Art– April 13-17, 2020
(3207 S Street, NW Washington, DC 20007)
Camp begins with an inspired art project  such as Monet or van Gogh. A break for snack, and weather permitting, we take it outside for some fresh air, blowing giant bubbles, running around and games at the Jelleff field across the street.  Back to the studio to complete projects or free choice with clay, drawing with pens, pencils or markers. Camp is for 4 -8 year olds and runs from 9:30am-12:30pm. 

The Theatre Lab– April 13-17, 2020
(733 8th Street NW. Washington, DC 20001)
Spring Break Camps, modeled on The Theatre Lab’s award-winning Summer Acting Camps for Kids, are perfect for children grades 1-6, who enjoy being creative and making new friends, and are designed to be fun for novices as well as kids who have already been bitten by the drama bug. Before and after-care option available.

Home Run Baseball Camp– April 13-17, 2020
(Friendship Park Recreation Center: 4500 Van Ness St NW, Washington, DC 20016)
Coach Julia Heimstra and an experienced co-ed staff will lead a high energy camp with the same format as the summer camp at AU Park in NW, Washington, DC. Full ground ball and fly ball square drill, over one hundred swings in batting practice, and two full games per day. Groups will be broken up by age and teams will be fair and games will be competitive. Full and half day options for kids ages 4-12.

Related Posts:
Summer camps for 2020

11 best places to ski and snowboard with kids near Washington, DC

There are several mountains you can get to locally in an hour and a few that you can plan a fun overnight trip to. This post is intended to inform you about skiing and snowboarding options with your Bambinos but you can assume most of these mountains are open in the summer; think hiking, zip lining, fishing, swimming and more!

(Photo: Massanutten Resort)

This winter ski and snowboard post is sponsored by Massanutten Resort. Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley; Massanutten is 121 miles from Washington, DC, less than a 2.5 hour drive, and has an elevation of 2,922 feet. With height like that, Massanutten possesses the highest vertical in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania and offers plenty of powder for winter enthusiasts. Massanutten is home to wide groomed trails, a dedicated learner’s area, terrain parks and night skiing. Skiers and riders who visit Massanutten have access to 70 skiable acres, including 14 runs serviced by 7 lifts. [Read more…]

Outdoor fun in and around Washington, DC

(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.

Safe Summer Fun: 11 Family-Focused Water Safety Tips + Williamsburg Great Wolf Lodge

Summertime is almost here and what better place to kick off your summer adventures by planning a family vacation to the beach, lake or a trip to the incredible Williamsburg Great Wolf Lodge? Summer is the perfect time to take your family to the waterpark resort, which was recently named by Trip Advisor as one of the Top 25 Hotels for Families in the United States! The resort features a massive indoor waterpark, as well as a bowling alley, mini golf course, outdoor ropes course, and a spa just for kids of all ages.

Great Wolf Lodge is a nationally recognized leader in water safety. Ellis & Associates, a renowned international organization focused on aquatic safety has recognized Great Wolf Lodge several years running with its top award for water safety. Since opening its first resort in 1997, Great Wolf Lodge has welcomed millions of families and accumulated a wealth of tips to help keep families safe around water.

May is National Water Safety Month, so there is no better time to share these tips with your family for a safe summer of fun!

  • Never swim alone. Always use the buddy system and be sure the area is well supervised by lifeguards before you or other family members enter the water.
  • Encourage your child to wear a life jacket. Many public pools and water parks provide life jackets for your use free of charge and it’s better to be on the safe side if your child is not a confident swimmer.
  • Never assume someone else is watching your child. Even with lifeguards nearby, you have the responsibility for your child. The best way to keep your child safe is to play right alongside them.
  • Stay hydrated. Swimming and playing takes a lot of energy, especially during the hot summer months. Drink plenty of water or sports drinks and rest in a cool location.
  • Forget the Bling. Before heading to the beach, pool or water park, avoid swimsuits that have ties, grommets or decorations that could get caught on something during water activities.
  • Skip the flip-flops. Look for sandals with a heel strap or a full-coverage slip-on water shoe that will stay in place both in and out of the water.
  • Too much sun is no fun. Be sure to limit your exposure during peak hours of 12pm-3pm and reapply waterproof/sweat proof sunscreen every 80 minutes.
  • Take a CPR course. Knowing these skills can be important in any environment. This is a skill we all can benefit from – on land and around water.
  • Read all of the signs before going on a waterslide, pool or attraction. Make sure your child meets the posted requirements. If you have questions about an attraction, ask an employee at the facility.
  • Plan ahead. As a family, decide on a meeting place to go to if anyone gets separated. Kids can take off in instant and crowded parks and beaches can make it difficult for little ones to find you.  Choose an easy-to-spot location that can be easily found by all family members.
  • If you see someone struggling in the water, call for help. Remember “Reach or Throw, Don’t Go!” Even professionally trained lifeguards don’t enter the water without having the proper flotation devices to keep themselves safe.

Related Link:
Local Splash Pads, Pools, Water Parks

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

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

Ultimate camp guide in and around Washington, DC for Summer 2018

An updated 2019 Summer Camp Guide can be found here.

This 2018 Summer camp guide is sponsored by Beauvoir Summer Camp.

Beauvoir Summer
(3500 Woodley Rd, NW, Washington, DC 20016 on the National Cathedral grounds)
Located on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Beauvoir Summer strives to create an inviting, collaborative and warm community for campers during the summer months. Beauvoir Summer offers camp programs open to Beauvoir and non-Beauvoir children ages 3 to 11 years old over four sessions that run a total of seven weeks.  Whether registering for one session or all summer, exciting activities include field trips, swimming lessons, outdoor adventure programs and specialty camps. Beauvoir Summer also offers a counselor-in-training program for students grades 6 to 12. Through a variety of offerings, Beauvoir Summer makes it easy for you to create a schedule that works best for your family, offering before and after camp care programs as well. Simply put, Beauvoir Summer can accommodate all of your summer camp needs!

Woodland Horse Center
(16301 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, MD. 20905)
Woodland Horse Center is the premier horseback riding center in Maryland and prides itself in offering the most spectacular Horseback Riding Summer Camp for horse-crazy kids from June 18-Aug 24. The 1-week Pony Pals Camp is for young riders ages 5-7. The 2-week Horsemanship Camp is for riders ages 8-16. All campers learn to ride correctly and confidently in twice daily riding lessons. Campers also learn comprehensive horsemanship skills which help them learn and love to care for the wonderful horses and ponies. Interactive, hands-on lessons outside of the ring include grooming, tacking, anatomy, health care, nutrition and more. Put the devices down, get outside and have a blast with the horses!!

Summer Safari Zoo Camp at The National Zoo
(3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008)
Each of the Summer Safari programs explores the lives, habitats, and conservation of animals around the world. Week-long sessions include exciting hands-on activities, lessons, craft projects, science experiments, and walks through the Zoo (but no direct contact with animals). Camp sessions are grouped into four grade levels: K-1, 2-3, 4-5, and 6-7.

Spy Camp at the Spy Museum
(800 F Street, NW Washington, DC  20004)
Another sneaky camp that sounds like so much fun and full of thrills! Somewhere deep inside the Museum an elite group of recruits is lurking in the shadows preparing to take on top secret missions. No one really knows who they are, or for that matter, what they’re really up to. Now it’s your children’s turn to join their ranks. Each day is filled with top secret briefings and activities that will put spy skills and street smarts to the test. Aspiring Spy recruits will hone their tradecraft, learn from real spies, and hit the streets to run training missions. Develop a disguise for cover, make and break codes, discover escape and evasion techniques, create and use spy gadgets, uncover the science behind spying—all of this and more awaits young recruits! Ages 10-13.

National Building Museum Summer Camp
(401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001)
One and two week sessions for campers entering 2nd-7th grade. Experience the world we build for ourselves in new ways and with hands-on activities and projects in one of our favorite buildings in DC! Attend one, two, or all of the unique sessions of, full-day summer camp at the National Building Museum. Campers will enjoy design challenges, exploring the Museum, and more!

Lowell School Camp
(1640 Kalmia Rd NW., Washington, DC. 20012)
Their respectful and caring atmosphere encourages campers, rising PreK-grade 9, to grow in self-awareness and confidence, while strengthening their cooperation and consideration for others. They have an expansive campus with fields, surrounded by towering trees, provides generous space for games, sports, exercise, and water play. Campers explore and investigate plant and animal life in a spring-fed stream, a tributary of nearby Rock Creek. The four-lane indoor pool, fully equipped technology center, three art workshops, library, and large gymnasium are also available to campers. 

Sidwell Summer
(3825 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016)
(5100 Edgemoor Lane Bethesda, MD 20814)
With an array of programs for campers and students Age 3 – Grade 12 throughout June,  July, and August, they have something for everyone. This camp has two locations to choose from with a variety of camps; day camp, sports camp and academic camp.

Bricks4Kidz
(1130 6th St. NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Camp kicks off the morning session by grouping up the kiddos by age (two age groups: 4-6 year olds and 7-12 year olds) then the fun begins. Campers work in pairs and build projects through Bricks 4 Kidz lesson plans and make creations of their own during super fun free play periods. The afternoon gets “challenging” as the campers enter “Challenge Island”, that provides unique challenge-based programs designed to foster critical and creative thinking skills, problem solving methodology, and core STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) principles in children.

Arts on the Horizon Summer Camps
(1100 Wythe Street, #26093  Alexandria, VA)
From superhero to construction, this arts inspired camp has a session that is sure to appeal to your child. They offer one week, half day sessions. Ages 3-6.

(Photo: Imagination Stage)

Theatre & Arts Camps:

Adventure Theatre Camps

Little Loft

The Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts

Meadowlark Guitar and Ukulele Camp

Red Panda Art Studio

McLean Project for the Arts (MAP)

Camp Arena Stage

Art in Motion via UpCycle/Local Motion

Takoma Groove Camp

Fit Kids Hit the Stage

Round House Theatre

Encore Stage and Studio

Imagination Stage

Lola’s Lab Camp

Levine Summer Music & Arts Day Camp

The Art League

Creative Youth

(Photo: Language Stars)


Language Camps:
CommuniKids

Language Stars

(Photo: Baseball Camp at Bethesda Big Train)

Other camps around the Washington, DC area:

(Photo: Calleva)

Need to sign-up for just one week of camp? Thanks to some locals parents, here’s a great list of drop-ins and places that will allow you to sign up a week at a time.

Bruce Murray Soccer Camp is in Potomac and has bus transportation
Humane Rescue Alliance for grades 2 & up
Bethesda YMCA tennis camp 
Woods Academy in Bethesda has a great summer science program
HomeRun Baseball Camp allows daily drop-ins and accepts kids ages 4-12
PPA offers soccer camps
Bethesda Soccer Club has tons of soccer camps
Sidwell Friends School summer camp
Washington Episcopal School summer camp
Calleva is an outdoor camp that has buses that pick up and drop off close-in and offer a variety of camp experiences
Brit-Am is a local soccer club that also has summer camps
Headfirst summer camp is very popular with various themes with two locations
Four Soccer at American University
Coach Sal Caccavale and his summer camps, they are all located in DC
Bach to Rock has a music camp in Bethesda
Landon camp is for boys and girls and provides bus transportation from a few neighborhoods

Yoga with Bambinos

“Take my child to yoga with me? Ohm my God!”  (See what I did there?! 😉 ) Others like the idea of exposing their little ones early, especially if that means instilling some yoga fundamentals into them. For me, finding a yoga class that I can bring my kids to means I can practice yoga and give my kids an opportunity to see me exercising which is important. Joining a yoga class with your child also gives them a chance to practice yoga and play around you while trying poses (even babies). And perhaps we’ll all go home a little more relaxed and zen. Here are some yoga studios that offer classes to parents and children together.

If you are also shopping around gyms here’s a few that offer childcare while you workout!

As always help us grow our lists; if you know of other great yoga studios and gyms to add to these lists please let us know.

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YoGirl Yoga
(3815 Village Park Dr, Chevy Chase, MD 20815)

Mother/Daughter Yoga as well as yoga for girls that empower them through yoga, meditation and self-awareness.
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