Add some tree top fun and adventure to your Spring Break week!
Monday – Get out and enjoy the sunshine at Great Falls Park, which boasts some of the most majestic nature in the area. Whether you opt for the Maryland or Virginia side, you really can’t go wrong. Take in spectacular views of the falls and rapids from several overlooks, hike easy trails along the river or through the woods, and stop in the Visitor Center — there’s one on each side — to learn more about the area’s history and wildlife. For more places to get a dose of nature, see this post about local walks in the woods.
Tuesday – Take your spring breakers to the Adventure Park at Sandy Spring to play in the trees. Kids as young as 5 years old can experience fun and challenges on the ropes courses and ziplines in the park’s aerial adventure forest, the largest in North America. Ages 5-6 with an accompanying adult have access to two of the easier courses. Older kids can do even more. Hours are 10am – 8pm, and admission is $12/ages 5-6, $47/ages 7-11, $56/ages 12 and older. Read more about this adventure here and here.
And if you’re looking for fun with little ones (or a cheaper option), take advantage of The Beauvoir School’s Spring Break. Their fantastic playground right in the shadow of the National Cathedral, welcomes the public when class is not in session. Open all day. Admission is free.
Wednesday – See high-flying thrills at the Big Apple Circus! A special spring break schedule, plus a discount for KFDC readers, makes this week a great time to go under the Big Top at National Harbor. Showtimes are 12pm & 4pm (they vary other days), and tickets start at $20 with the discount.
Thursday – Think Charm City, hon! Zip up I-95 for some fun in our sister city, where there are lots of great places to spend a day off, with something for all ages and interests. Play the day away at Port Discovery. Explore the exhibits and loads of hands-on activities at the Maryland Science Center. See some of the quirkiest, coolest art around at the American Visionary Art Museum. Get an eyeful of the underwater world at the National Aquarium. Tour the historic ships moored at the Inner Harbor. Or learn about Baltimore’s early business days at the Museum of Industry.
Friday – Learn about the final hours of Abraham Lincoln’s life, the circumstances surrounding his assassination, and the aftermath of the tragedy at Ford’s Theatre. The National Historic Site features a museum, plus a theatre walk-throughs and a presentation. (Unfortunately, Peterson House, where Lincoln died, is closed for renovations until June.) Hours are 9am – 4:30pm. Timed entry tickets are free at the Box Office, or you can reserve them in advance online for $3.
Bonus Recs
Since it’s Spring Break for many local students, I know parents may be looking for extra things to do. Here are some recommendations:
* Experience a Cherry Blossom Dream at ARTECHOUSE.
* Catch a show — see the line-up of spring entertainment .
* Get Q?rius at the National Museum of Natural History
* Celebrate Easter a little early.
* Check out loads of ideas for Everyday Play around DC.
* Go on a last minute getaway to the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay, a family-friendly resort within easy driving distance to DC.
