Where to Play on the Weekdays: December 16-20

Monday: Head to the big train station to check out the little trains. Union Station’s annual Holiday Train Show is back in the Main Hall, featuring 3 G-Scale LGB Steam Locomotives running on 200 feet of track, a mountain landscape with 40 new structures, 25 trucks and vintage cars, 100 trees along with people, even dogs and cats. After (or before), grab a bite to eat or pop over to the Postal Museum next door.

Tuesday: Climb inside a life-sized snow globe at Google’s Winter Wonderlab. A holiday season treat at Westfield Annapolis Mall, it’s one of multiple entertainment zones that feature games, music, and videos. Inside the snow globe, kids and parents can create a personalized slow-motion video they can share with friends or relatives. Free and open during mall hours.

Wednesday: See Drumming with Dishes: Holiday Edition, an interactive play geared toward children ages 1-5. Presented by Arts on the Horizon, performances take place a few days this week at the Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street NE. Showtime is 10:30am. Tickets are $8.

Thursday: Bundle up and hit the trail. Great Falls is a great place to hike and enjoy the outdoors any time of the year. Whether you opt for the Maryland or Virginia side of the park along a breathtaking stretch of the Potomac, you’re guaranteed some of the best vistas in the area. Be sure to stop in the Visitor Center where you can learn about the history and nature of the area. Hours are 7am – dark. The Visitor Centers are open from 10am – 4pm. Admission is $5/vehicle.

Friday: Venture up to Baltimore for a Family Fun Friday at Port Discovery. Along with many levels full of awesome hands-on exhibits, there are special things to take advantage of, including literacy programs, storytime, music sessions, and painting. Opens at 9:30am. Admission is $13.95 for ages 2 and up, though if you go after 4pm, you can enjoy a Target $2 Family Fun Night until 8pm!