* * *
Special Entertainment & Programs
Mini Trains, Carousels, Mini Golf, & a Ferris Wheel
* * *
PLAY IN THE SPRAYS
Fountain play in Georgetown
Kids can run through fountains and splash around at many of them around the area. Several are within the DC, MD, & VA Departments of Parks and Recreation, but some of the best are built right into the urban landscape, making the concrete jungle a cool place to hang out during the hottest months. Dates are TBD at some, but look for updates soon!
Georgetown Waterfront Park, right next to Washington Harbour, has a fountain with arcing sprays that makes for a fun, refreshing way to cool off on a hot, summer day. The rest of the park’s pretty green space along the Potomac is a nice, relaxing place to hang out, too. And it’s location nearby M Street & Wiconsin Ave lined with food and shopping options makes it a destination for an all-day outing. Read more about Georgetown Waterfront Park in this KFDC post.
Canal Park in the Navy Yard is great for kids of varying ages with both a gentle, shallow fountain that is ideal for really little ones to enjoy, plus a bigger fountain with lots of sprays for more enthusiastic play where the ice rink is in the winter. Read more about Canal Park in this KFDC post.
The Wharf in Southwest DC has a nice in-ground fountain that usually opens before other nearby fountains and stay open longer. Kids can run through water shooting up from jets, play in mist spraying up in the center, and ride on waterproof rocking horses within all of it, all with the beautiful waterfront area as a backdrop. Read more about The Wharf in this KFDC post.
DC DPR Spray Parks will open will be open for on weekends from 10am – 6pm starting Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday, May 23 through June 22, then open daily starting June 23. They close for the season on a rolling basis starting late August, and some emain open until late September. Be sure to view the list, as open days vary by location. See all of the locations throughout the city on this map on the DPR website.
The Yards in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood is a favorite for water play in the city, with two levels featuring Dancing Fountains up top and the Canal Basin and Waterfall below, plus a great scenic location on the Anacostia River in the Navy Yard. Grassy areas for hanging out and lots of nearby eateries make it a perfect place to spend a summer day. The water features usually turn on for the season around Memorial Day Weekend. Note there has been confusion about playing in the large Canal Basin, so use your best judgement when you go, and be sure children are supervised at all times.
Lyon Village Park, Hayes Park, Virginia Highlands Park, Drew Park, and Mosaic Park, some of the area’s most popular spray parks, can be found in Arlington along with Penrose Square, which has an in-ground interactive fountain. Open Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. Hours vary by park, so be sure to view the websites.
Our Special Harbor at the Franconia Family Recreation Area in Alexandria gets raves for its Chesapeake-Bay themed sprayground complete with a spraying osprey nest, Chessie the sea serpent, misting sunflowers, and a lighthouse. Open weekends May 23 – June 19, then daily June 20 – August 23, then only weekends again through September 7. Be sure to check the wbesite for hours, as they var by day.
Potomac Yard Park, among the many city of Alexandria parks, has an interactive in-ground fountain that kids can play in — along with a couple of playgrounds and many other recreational features. Even better, you can plan to do some shopping at the nearby Target and other big stores while you’re out that way. Open daily 10am – 9pm daily from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day, then 10am – 8pm through mid-October.
There is now a splash pad at The Boro in Tysons on the upper promenade. It’s open daily, 9am – 9pm.
There’s an in-ground fountain on Capitol Hill at the C Street Plaza right across from Eastern Market. On most weekday afternoons during summer, there’s a small crowd of little ones playing in the gentle sprays.
OUTDOOR POOL SEASON
DC outdoor public pools open Memorial day Weekend
Nothing says summer like swimming under the sun. There are plenty of public pools in the area where you can jump in for free or a small admission fee, plus a few other options for a nice pool day.
DC outdoor public pools will open on Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday, May 23. They’ll operate on a weekend-only schedule (Saturday & Sunday) through June 21. Starting Monday, June 22, all outdoor pools will operate on individual summer schedules, six days a week. They close for the season on a rolling basis beginning August 2, with the last outdoor pools closing on Labor Day, September 7. Days and hours vary from pool to pool so be sure to check schedules before you go.
For outdoor swimming beyond the city, Montgomery County outdoor public pools will open weekends May 23 – June 12, then daily June 19 – August 23, then weekends again August 29 – September 7. See the MoCo Department of Recreation website for locations and hours. Summer pool passes are available for purchase.
In Northern Virginia, there are several waterparks (see below) in Arlington with outdoor pools and much more for guests to enjoy, and the city of Alexandria has three outdoor public pools: Memorial Pool at Charles Houston Rec Center should be open May 23 – August 21, and Old Town Pool and Warwick Pool are open May 23 – September 7. Hours vary by day, so be sure to view details for all of them.
Swimply, a service that started a few years ago, lets you search for private pools to rent. You can find pools at residences all over and pay to use them by the hour. I know several people wh have used it and had great experiences!
Hotel Pass: Some DC hotels offer day (or evening) passes for adults and kids to their outdoor pools. [Note that rates might vary by day at some hotels.]
* Hyatt House at The Wharf starts at $35/adult, $35/child.
* Omni Shoreham in Woodley Park starts at $50/adult, $25/child.
* Hotel Zena in Downtown DC starts at $50/adult, $25/child.
* The Westin Georgetown starts at $25/adult, $10/child.
* Bethesda Marriott starts $20/person or $69/family (3 people).
* The Bethesdan Hotel starts at $50/adult, 25/child
* Wyndham Garden Manassas starts at $20/adult, $10/child.
BEACHES
Beach day at Cape Henlopen State Park
Summer and beach trips go hand-in-hand, so why not hit one with the kids? There are a bunch of places where you can get a good dose of sand and surf that are within day trip distance from DC.
Flag Ponds Nature Park in Calvert County, has a large sandy beach for playing and nice mellow waters for swimming. It’s also a great spot for fossil hunting — look for shark teeth and other prehistoric remnants along the shores while you’re there, too. Hours are 9am – 6pm on weekdays and 9am – 8pm weekends from Memorial to Labor Day (days/hours are reduced the rest of the year). Admission is $5/vehicle in-county residents, $20/vehicle non residents. Be sure to read more about Flag Ponds for tips and get a glimpse here and here.
Calvert Cliffs State Park, also in Calvert County, is known as a fossil hunting locale — as its cliffs erode, prehistoric remains of marine life are revealed — but it’s even better for beach fun, swimming, and hiking. To access the beach, you have to hike a couple of miles through woods (and there are even more trails if you’re up for it), but the walk is worth it for a dose of quintessential summer fun. Open daily sunrise – sunset, and admission is $5/vehicle in-state residents, $7/vehicle out-of-state. Read more about Calvert Cliffs in this KFDC post.
Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis offers striking views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge along with loads of beach fun. At nearly 800 acres, it’s a big park with lots of recreational opportunities — swimming, picnicking, fishing, crabbing, hiking, and more. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there are lifeguards on duty. And snack food and beach and picnic supplies are available. Hours are 7am – sunset. From May 1 through September, admission is $5/person weekends, $4/person weekdays.
The Purse Area within the Nanjemoy Wildlife Management Area in Charles County, MD, is best if your main purpose is fossil hunting — it’s a great place to go for it — and you want to get in some “beach” time, too. The beach is narrow, and you’re on a river, but you still get to enjoy sand and water. Wear swimsuits, bring a picnic, and be sure to check the tide table (read this post for details) so you can make the most of your time there. Open sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.
Mayo Beach Park in Anne Arundel County, MD, is open for swimming in summer to enjoy some sand and surf. Passes to access the beach park on weekends must be reserved in advance. Be aware of other beach rules like no grills or dogs allowed. Open Memorial Day – Labor Day on Friday 4-7pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am – 7pm.
Greenbrier State Park, just over an hour’s drive from DC in Boonsboro, MD, has a beach area on a man-made freshwater lake, where visitors can swim, paddle, boat, and fish. Swimming is only allowed from May through September in designated areas when swim ropes are in place, with lifeguards there Memorial Day to Labor Day, 11am – 6pm. Admission is $3/person weekdays, $5/person weekends.
Lake Anna State Park in Spotsylvania, VA, is popular for weekend-long trips, but also good as a day trip destination, being less than two hours’ drive from DC. It’s especially great with little ones from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day, since it’s very organized with a designated beach/swim area, lifeguards, a bathhouse for changing and restrooms, and a snack bar.
Cape Henlopen State Park is a little over two hours from DC in Lewes, DE, but definitely doable as a day trip if you leave early, especially on a weekday when there is less traffic. We’ve done this and have had a fantastic day at the beach — packed up the car with a cooler and beach gear, got on the road early, and we were on the beach by 10:30am. Enjoyed dinner outdoors and ice cream in town before heading back, arrived home at 9:15pm. Totally worth the time in the car. Open daily, 8am – sunset, and admission is $20/vehicle out of state. Get a glimpse here.
They may not all be beaches, but this round-up of swim spots has a bunch more recommendations for places to take a dip around DC within day trip distance.
WATERPARKS
Make splash at Soak City in Kings Dominion
Giant water slides, wave pools, waterfalls, sprays and splash pads…this is the stuff kids’ summer dreams are made of. There are some great water parks around the area offering many of these attractions, just about all of them opening Memorial Day weekend for limited hours, until they open daily a few weeks later. Here’s a quick list — visit the websites for more details.
* Ocean Dunes Waterpark at Upton Hill in Arlington, VA
* Great Waves at Cameron Run in Alexandria, VA
* The Water Park at Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg, MD
* The Water Mine in Reston, VA
* Atlantis Water Park at Bull Run in Centreville, VA
* Pirate’s Cove Waterpark in Lorton, VA
* Volcano Island Waterpark in Sterling, VA
* Splash Down Water Park in Manassas, VA
* Chesapeake Beach Water Park in Chesapeake Beach, MD
* Soak City Water Park at Kings Dominion in Doswell, VA
* Water Country USA at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, VA
* Harpers Ferry Waterpark in Harpers Ferry, WV
BIG SCREEN UNDER THE STARS
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the drive-in movie
Outdoor movies have become a DC summer tradition over the years with films al fresco in several neighborhoods. Even better, many of them are FREE! (*Before you make plans to enjoy any of the series, be sure to check schedules, as some movies may not be appropriate for children.)
National Harbor’s Movies on the Potomac series is back through the September 27. Every Sunday (family night) at 6pm and Thursday (date night) at 7pm, guests can see a free film on the big outdoor Plaza Screen right on the waterfront. Pack your chairs, grab food to go from one of the many eateries, and meet at the Plaza’s big screen for a FREE evening of fun and entertainment.
Catch a flick on the big screen from the comfort of your car at the Union Market Drive-In Series, occurring monthly on Fridays through October 9, with mostly family-friendly films. Get there as early as 6pm and have a bite to eat in the Market or bring food back to your car. Film start times vary, so be sure to check on that. Admission is $20/car, free for walk-ins. Advance purchase is recommended.
CiNOMAtic, the NoMa BID’s outdoor movie series at Alethia Tanner Park is screening “Adventure Awaits” themed films Wednesdays at sunset through June 24.
Adams Morgan Movie Nights is back with free movies on Tuesday evenings from May 21 – June 25 with a great mix of films. The program runs 8-11pm at Marie Reed Recreation Center’s soccer field (18th & California St, NW). Restaurants in the neighborhood will be offering special takeout meals that attendees can bring to the field.
Sunset Cinema at The Wharf presents free movies on Transit Pier on Wednesday evenings, May 27 – September 2, starting at 7pm. There is a mix of action movies, rom-coms, blockbusters, and classics, so be sure to check the schedule to see what’s playing.
At the Navy Memorial Plaza (7th & Pennsylvania Ave NW) catch Movies on the Memorial on Thursday evenings, June 11, June 18, and June 26. The series of Navy-themed films pays tribute to our rich maritime heritage. Look for the line-up soon.
Cinematery takes place monthly at Congressional Cemetery on Capitol Hill. Dates for this year’s series are still TBA, so check back!
Enjoy Films in the Park in the Mosaic District will show movies in Strawberry Park every Thursday, 7-9pm, from June 18 to August 20.
Films at the Stone hosts monthly screenings of family-friendly movies at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial – June 19, July 17, and August 21.
The Columbia Pike Movie Nights series is returning. Enjoy free movies on July 11 and 25 at Arlington Mill Community Center and July 18 and August 1 at Penrose Square . The first showing will actually be the FIFA Quarterfinal and te oter three are family-friendly films.
The Library of Congress will host its 9th annual Summer Movies on the Lawn on Thursday evenings from July 9 – August 6 Films will begin at sundown on the southeast lawn of the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building.
The Bethesda Outdoor Movies series will begin its 21st year soon. Three screenings will be held at 9pm at Woodmont Triangle at the corner of Norfolk & Auburn Aves. on July 25, July 31, and August 7.
SUMMER CONCERTS
Enjoy a summer concert by the river at Yards Park
Free music in the fresh air has become a staple of the season, and there are opportunities to enjoy just about every genre regularly at outdoor venues all around the DC-Metro.
The Bethesda Friday Summer Concerts will run Fridays, 6-8pm, through September 19. Enjoy music, food, and fun at the corner of Norfolk & St. Elmo Avenues.
Jazz in the Garden, the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden’s free concert series, is back. Experience live music amid art at every Friday from 6–8:30pm starting May 22 — and there will be weekly shows through August 1. Spread out a blanket, pack a picnic dinner or purchase food and drinks there, and enjoy the sounds of a variety of jazz artists. Note: Adult drinks are available from the pavilion; BYO alcohol is not permitted. Tickets will be through lottery, which take places the week before each concert, Monday 10am – Friday 12pm.
The U.S. Air Force Band’s Summer Concert Series brings outdoor concerts to National Harbor, the U.S. Capitol, or the Air Force Memorial on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7pm starting May 30.
Rock the Dock at The Wharf on Transit Pier every Wednesday evening at 7pm from May 29 – September 4. R&B, Americana, Motown, Jazz, Reggae, Go-go, Country, and your favorite pop covers will be among the sounds you can hear, all for free. There’s much more to enjoy on the Southwest Waterfront — read about it here.
Enjoy music in Northern Virginia parks! The Fairfax County Park Authority presents their Summer Entertainment Series, a summer-long calendar of family-friendly shows, and concerts in local parks. Bring a picnic dinner, blankets, and lawn chairs to enjoy the best local and regional entertainers. There are many shows throughout the summer — the schedule is TBA soon!
Founders Row in Falls Church is bringing back Founders Groove, its free concert series on Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm, June 4 – August 13 with performances from regional acts across pop, country, reggae, jazz and more.
Glen Echo Park’s 2026 Summer Concerts Series presents free live music in the historic Bumper Car Pavilion on Thursdays at 7:30pm from June 11 through August 20 featuring a variety of local bands and musical genres, from country to reggae, swing to Latin jazz, African to Cajun and blues.
The Yards Friday Night Concert Series will be back for the 14th season from June 12 – July 31, on Friday evenings. The series will feature performances by popular local artists with cold beverages and food available for purchase, lots of grassy space for hanging out, and the water features for kids to play in nearby to make it a bigger family evening out.
Rockville Town Square presents the Summer on the Square concert series. Enjoy live music on Fridays 6:30-8pm, May 29 – September 11.
Enjoy music Live from the Lawn at Strathmore on Wednesday evenings from July 1 – August 12. (They also have Cool Concerts for Kids on select Thursdays!)
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Celebrate the start of summer at the Smithsonian’s Solstice Saturday
Several stand-out events are anticipated around the area this time of year, celebrating everything from music to art & culture to neighborhoods to food. There are also a few smaller happenings to plan for in advance.
From May 23-25, ViVa! Vienna!, a family and community oriented celebration of Memorial Day and the greater Vienna Community spirit, will have amusement rides, food, crafts, vendors, and live entertainment.
There may not be any World Cup matches in DC, but the spirit of the tournament will be here. The FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone will be on the National Mall through the run of the global event from June 11 – July 19. Along with viewing live matches, there will be interative exhibits, music, food, and soccer programming. This will all take place on the Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets.
Join the annual Juneteenth celebration at Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro, MD on June 13, 12-5pm. Enjoy food, music, the arts, and a wide range of activities for all ages while learning about the history of the African American people, their culture, and achievements. Admission is free.
On June 13, get a close look at some of the most exciting aircraft at the Innovations in Flight Outdoor Aviation Day. The event takes place at the Steven C. Udvar-Hazy Center, the Chantilly arm of the National Air & Space Museum. View over 50 unique aircraft that fly in for the day and be on display outside the museum. You can even go into some of the cockpits and cabins and talk with pilots. Admission is free, but tickets are required.
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race will sail into The Wharf from June 17-22, bringing a multi-day waterfront event that will feature a fleet of 10 ocean racing yachts, public tours of the yachts, educational programming and celebratory events along the Washington Channel.
The Smithsonian’s annual Solstice Saturday on June 19-20 celebration marks the first Saturday and official start of summer by staying open late and hosting parties, special programs, performances, and more. All of the National Mall museums will have extended hours, and the National Zoo will have free, fun-filled immersive scientific experiences.
Celebrate Capital Pride during the month of June, especially June 20-21 at the annual parade and festival that culminates a week of gay pride events around the city. The Saturday parade is always a spectacular extravaganza of ornate floats, street performers, music and dancing, glitter and beads, and plenty of reveling. Sunday’s family-friendly festival, on Pennsylvania Avenue from 3rd to 7th Streets NW, features several stages of live entertainment, hundreds of exhibitors, and activities for all ages. It’s all a fun and fabulous opportunity to show support for the LGBTAQ community and join the celebration.
Attend one of the biggest summer barbeques around June 27-28 as the National Capital Barbeque Battle returns to pit some of the nation’s best barbequers against each other as they compete for big prizes. The reward for attendees: Samples from all the entrants (plus, more food), live music, cooking demos, kids’ fun, and more.
This year, the National Air & Space Museum completes a massive renovation that began in 2018 with the opening of the final seven galleries, four of which will open on July 1.
Independence Day in DC is a pretty big deal, the city being the nation’s capital and all, so the annual July 4th celebrations are significant, especially this 250th year. It starts with then A Capitol Fourth concert at the U.S. Capitol on July 3, the National Independence Day Parade down Constitution Avenue on July 4th, and fireworks over the National Mall as the grand finale.
The lotus and water lilies in full bloom at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens are such a ravishing sight it calls for a celebration. Along with the spectacular display of flowers, the annual Lotus & Water Lily Festival offers more ways to appreciate the flowers and park. Dates or this year are TBA. View scenes from a previous bloom here.
Otakon, a weekend-long convention a celebration of Asian pop culture and its fandom — think anime, mange, video games, etc. — takes place July 31 – August 2 at the Washington Convention Center. There are tons of fun opportunities for all ages.
County fair season in the region starts in early August and goes through late September. Dates are still TBA for many, but it always starts with the Howard County Fair in early August, followed by the Montgomery County Fair, Prince William County Fair, the Arlington County Fair, Prince George’s County Fair , and the Anne Arundel County Fair in September.
It might run well into fall, but it starts August 29, so the Maryland Renaissance Festival counts among the summer fun. Plus, if you’ve been reading KFDC while then you know it’s one of my favorite annual events. (More confirmation on that here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.) Many people have caught on to how fun it is in the last couple of yeasr, and tickets often sell out weeks in advance, so be sure to snag yours ealy if you hope to go. I also shared these Ren Fest tips a few years ago, and they’ll be very helpful again.
The National Book Festival, one of the most anticipated annual events in DC, takes place on August 22! Book enthusiasts, young and old, come from all over for the day of reading-related activities. Works by more than 70 authors, poets, and illustrators will be showcased, and the creators themselves will be at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center for special appearances. See the website for more details. Admission is free.
250th COMMEMORATIONS
A showcase of special objects at the National Museum of American History
As America reaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, there are all kinds of special programs, events, and exhibits this summer to commemorate the milestone.
At the United States Botanic Garden, celebrate the botanical beauty of America with “America’s State Flowers: An America250 Celebration!” that opened on April 10 and will be on display through October 12, showcasing the official flowers for all U.S. states and territories.
The National Museum of the United States Army recently opened a new augmented reality as parts of its celebrations of America’s 250th. “American Revolution: The Augmented Exhibition,” is a family-friendly experience that drops users into 360-degree realistic recreations of key historical moments that helped forge American democracy 250 years ago.
The Milken Center for the Advancement of the American Dream is featuring several exhibitions in celebration of 250. Particularly interesting to young visitors is “The Spirit of 2076,” which examines how the American Dream will evolve and inspire the next generations of Americans.
The National Museum of American History is celebrating 250 with a bold, immersive exhibition exploring the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. “In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness,” showcases 250 objects ranging from the 1700s to the present day, tracing how Americans have pursued the promises of our nation’s founding — often against the odds or facing opposition, but always with the conviction that achieving them was possible.
The Smithsonian Castle will temporarily reopen June 2 – July 26 to present the exhibition “American Aspirations,” which brings together for the first time some of the Smithsonian’s most treasured objects to commemorate the America’s 250th.
The National Archives will be hosting the Spirit of Independence Festival, a multi-day event taking place June 4-6 in front of the museum on Constitution Avenue to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The National Gallery of Art is hosting a Block Party for its monthly First Saturday program on June 6, 10am – 4pm, to celebrate 250 years of American art and creativity. Join the free event for hands-on activities, including many especialy for kids, special talks, a public art project, live performances, refreshments, and more throughout the museum’s campus.
The June Family Day at the Library of Congress is themed 250 Years of American Fashion. Taking place June 13, 10:30am -3:30pm, the day will be filled with fun activities, including a chance to create designs drawing inspiration from the Library’s collections, chances to meet experts, and an author talk with Carlotta Walls LaNier, the youngest of the Little Rock Nine.
The National Museum of Natural History will open a new exhibition, “From These Lands: Sharing Our Natural and Cultural Heritage” on June 18. Visitors are invited to celebrate and reflect on the nation’s rich natural and cultural heritage through more than 600 specimens and cultural objects—many rare and never-before-exhibited—from across all 50 states, DC, and five U.S. territories.
From June 25- July 10, the National Mall will become grounds of the biggest state fair in the country. The Great American State Fair will feature all 50 states and U.S. territories, plus federal agencies showcasing their food, culture, and pride.
One of the opening exhibits at the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration opening June 26 will be “Red, White & Blue: Photographs of the United States”. The collection of images from National Geographic Explorers and photographers presents the United States’ history, culture, and complexities through the colorful lens of the U.S. flag.
The Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, DC, will take place August 22-23. The first‑ever NTT INDYCAR SERIES race on the National Mall is a free, two-day motorsports event will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with world‑class racing set against the backdrop of some of America’s most historic landmarks, including the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol.
SEASONAL EXHIBITS
Delight in the fairy houses at Annmarie Sculpture Garden
Extraordinary installations, lovely annual exhibits, and kids’ programs during the school break are some of the special experiences at our museums and galleries to take take advantage of over the summer.
The Butterfly Experience (formerly Wings of Fancy) is back at Brookside Gardens through September 7. Numerous species of live butterflies and caterpillars from North America, Costa Rica, Africa, and Asia will not just be on display, but flitting about the park’s Conservatory filled with plants and flowers — and it’s such a delight! Admission is $15.99/age 13+, $10.99/age 3-13, free/2 & under. Get a glimpse at what to expect in this KFDC post and this one about a couple of our past visits there.
The National Children’s Museum will welcome the Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! exhibit to its Visiting Exhibit Hall. Young learners can engage in hands-on math, science, and engineering activities modeled after Curious George’s many adventures! Visit it May 23 – September 6.
Annmarie Sculpture Garden is enchanting any time of year, but it’s especially so in the summer when the fairy and gnome houses are on display. The adorable collection of little whimsical abodes for spritely creatures are just fantastic to view and find throughout the grounds. Created by all ages, individuals and groups, each one has a different theme, but together they are a brilliant showcase of imagination and craftiness. Read more about it and view scenes from a past exhibit here and here.
During the warm months, little ones can flex their green thumbs in the outdoor Children’s Garden at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Renovated a few years ago, the adorable outdoor area features dirt to dig in, plants to tend to, and a cute play structure to romp in. The rest of the USBG is great to explore, too!
Not necessarily seasonal exhibits, but the (re)opening of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration is one of the more exciting launches of the summer — and it will be full of all kinds of cool exhibits! After several years’ renovations, the newly designed space will open on June 26.
The Playground, the National Building Museum’s big summer installation will be open from July 3 – August 30, transforming the Great Hall into a sculptural landscape that doesn’t just welcome, but encourages, visitors to play!
SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT & PROGRAMS
You can’t beat the lovely outdoor setting of Wolf Trap’s Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods
From super cheap movies in local theaters where you can stay cool on hot days to live theatre at fun places to programs running through the season, there are some great ways to keep kiddos entertained all summer long.
CityCenterDC and The Washington Ballet will present live performances in The Plaza at CityCenter. See them for free May 29-30, 6:30pm-7:30pm. Seating is first-come, first-served.
Throughout summer on select dates from May 18 – August 2, Montgomery Parks is hosting Parks Playhouse Junior, an enterainment series for kids featuring live puppet shows, sing-alongs, and music lessons by performers that will keep kids moving and grooving, engaged, and informed.
The Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse is back and offering fun films for kids for $1.75 every Wednesday from June 6 – August 6. Check the schedule to see what’s playing at a theater near you.
The Regal Summer Movie Express presents flicks for kids Monday – Thursday at 11am from June 1 through August 13. Admission is just $1! Be sure to check the website for the film schedule and theater locations, as it doesn’t run at all theaters every week — this year’s program details should be available soon!
The National Portrait Gallery hosts Portrait Gallery Kids on most Mondays, 11:30am – 12:30pm. Children and families are invited to join museum educators to will look at art, do hands-on activities, listen to music, and participate in story time. Each session will explore a new topic and use different materials. Admission is free.
National Harbor hosts a free Kids Day on the Plaza every Tuesday June through August at 10:30am at the waterfront plaza stage. Enjoy summer sunshine and cool river breezes along with a rotation of family-friendly activities. Details to be shared soon.
The popular Imagination Stage in Bethesda is presenting Pete the Cat: A Live Rock Musical from June 17 – July 26.
And at the beloved Adventure Theatre in Glen Echo Park catch performances of Sleeping Beauty: The Time Traveler from June 18 – August 24.
Capital Book Fest – Held on the third Thursday each month, 10am – 5pm, through November 20. this beloved pop-up bookstore offers thousands of gently used books, CDs, DVDs, and vinyl, all priced at $7 or less. Presented in partnership with Carpe Librum, proceeds benefit Turning the Page, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting public schools, families, and the community to enhance education.
From June 20 through August 13, Wolf Trap presents the fantastic Children’s Theater-in-the-Woods, over 70 family-friendly performances at 10am Tuesdays through Saturdays. Amidst 117 rolling wooded acres in Vienna, VA, and nestled in a shady grove, the stage is set for lively adventures in music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and theater. All of the productions are recommended for children between Kindergarten and 6th grade, though I think kids even younger can enjoy them, too (mine did!). Read a KFDC review of the series from a past summer (it’s an old one, but still relevant!)
Starting June 24, Fairfax County Park Authority will presentArts in the Parks, a free children’s entertainment series on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 10am. Locations vary — catch shows at several Fairfax County parks. See the schedule here.
Experience a real-life night at the museum at a Smithsonian Sleepover. On several dates throughout summer at the National Museums of Natural History and American History, kids and parents can explore exhibits after dark, participate in games and challenges, and enjoy an overnight in a favorite DC place. Follow the link for pricing and more details.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, with locations in NoMa, Loudoun, and Woodbridge, welcomes families to Kids Camp, a movie series that is inexpensive ($5) and benefits local charities, to boot. Summe schedule still TBA.
Strathmore is hosting Cool Concerts for Kids on Thursdays July 9, July 16, and July 23 at 7pm.
A few big shows at local theatres this summer: CrazySexyCool–A TLC Musical at Arena Stage, Beetlejuice and The Notebook at National Theatre, for littles Elmo’s Got the Moves at Capitol One Hall, and Othello at Harman Hall.
See what regularly occurring museum programs for kids are happening this summer!
MINI TRAINS, MINI GOLF, CAROUSELS, & A FERRIS WHEEL!
Go for spin on the National Mall!
These extra delights bring even more fun to several parks and a few other spots around the area that are already great outdoor places to hang with the kids.
The Smithsonian Carousel recently reopened after being closed for three years for renovations and preservation efforts (and very much missed). If you’re visiting museums or planning to be on the Mall, stop by for a whirl! Open daily 10am – 5pm, and rides are 6.
Watkins Regional Park opened its Antique Carousel, Mini Golf , and Miniature Train on a limited schedule in early May, but come Memorial Day weekend, they can be enjoyed for extended hours almost every day of the week. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10am – 7pm; Sundays 12–5 pm, closed Mondays except May 26 (Memorial Day), July 4 (closes at 4pm) & September 1 (Labor Day). This along with all of the other fun features — Nature Center, Old Maryland Farm, and Wizard of Oz Playground! Read more about it all here.
Cabin John Regional Park opened its Miniature Train in April and will run on weekends through October, 9:30am – 4:3pm. Rides are $4. Plan to spend time at the wonderful Cabin John playground, too — read more about it here.
The Miniature Train and Ovid Hazen Wells Carousel at Wheaton Regional Park started taking guests for spins in early April and will be open through the summer. After Memorial Day, it’s open Thursday – Sunday, but hours vary, so be sure to check the website. Rides are $4. Plan to stay and play at the super fun Wheaton playground — read more about it here.
At Glen Echo Park, the beautiful historic Dentzel Carousel is celebrating its 104th season! Plan to go for a spin before or after a show at Adventure Theatre or The Puppet Co. From May through August 31, it’s open Wednesday – Friday 10am – 2pm, and Saturday and Sunday 11am – 5pm. Tickets are $2/ride, $5/all-day pass.
The Clemyjontri carousel in McLean, VA, will be offering rides weekends only through July 17, then daily June 18 through August 23. Cost is $4/weekdays, $5/weekends & holidays. Read more about Clemyjontri here.
National Harbor offers a couple of ways to go for a spin. Kind of like a London Eye of the U.S., The Capital Wheel is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of DC. The 42-gondola ride (all closed and climate-controlled with room for 8) soars 180 feet above the Potomac River waterfront, offering vistas of the White House and Capitol, the National Mall, Arlington Cemetery, and more amazing sites. Ticket prices are $17.50/age 13+, $13.50/12 & under. For an on-ground whirl, The Carousel features a herd of whimsical creatures and the sparkling Potomac as a backdrop. It’s $7/ rider, and they can ride an unlimited number of times. Read about both rides and more National Harbor fun here.
Burke Lake Park’s Mini Train, Carousel, and Mini Golf are open weekends through June 11, then daily through Labor Day. The train 11am – 5:45pm, the carousel 11am -5:30pm, and mini golf 11am – 8pm (last play 7pm). The park is free to access for Fairfax county residents. For non-county residents, the park is free on weekdays and has a $10 entrance fee on weekends/holidays for a car or large capacity van. Carousel rides are $4-5, train rides are $5-6, mini golf is $7-9. See more about the park here.
Play Mini Golf in the District at East Potomac Park. (Fun fact: It’s on the National Register of Historic Places listed as the oldest continually operating miniature golf course in the country!) Open Saturday and Sunday, 10am – 8pm. Admission is $6/kids and seniors, $7/adults. Read more about hanging out at East Potomac Park’s Hains Point. (FYI: You can also play FootGolf there!)
Tee up at several NoVa Parks that have mini golf courses. At Cameron Run, Upton Hill, Pohick Bay, and Algonkian Regional Parks all welcome guests to putt around. Cost is $6/age 12 & under, $8/13+. Check websites for hours at each park.
Lee District Family Rec Area in Alexandria offers rides on its Chesapeake Bay-themed carousel. Open daily June 24 – August 19 . Cost is $4 per ride on Fridays, $5 per ride weekends & holidays.
Play mini golf with a view at Perch Putt. The sky-high village green is situated on the 11th floor terrace of the Capital One Center in Tysons. Along with 18 holes to tee up, a retro Greyhound and double decker bus have been converted into food trucks serve up seasonal street food. Plus, there are giant chess boards, bocce ball, fire pits, live music, and more fun. Open daily through October 30, though hours vary by day. Mini golf is $17/person, and kids 6 & under are fee.
SUMMER SPORTS
Enjoy a summer day at the ballpark
Some of the season’s best action takes place in ballparks, stadiums, and arenas thanks to our local sports teams. Here’s where you can join the fan clubs.
There may not be opportunities to see it live in DC, but one o the biggest sports events this summer is the World Cup from June 11 – July 19. But you can still share in the excitement of it all with other futbol fans at watch parties all around the area. See a round-up of kid-friendly spots to view the ation.
A day at Nationals Park is all it takes to understand why baseball is America’s favorite pastime. Our family always enjoys catching a Nats game on a nice summer (or spring) day (or evening), anyway. The excitement extends well beyond the diamond with games and activities in the park, a playground for kids, the Racing Presidents, fun in the stands, and more. Before you go, check out these tips on doing a Nats game without breaking the bank. And I highly recommend the Jr. Nationals Kids Club for children 12 and under. Just $20 gets them membership, which includes Nats swag, plus a coupon book with all kinds of offers and discounts.
Whether or not you’ve got a little soccer fan in your fam, DC United matches are fun experiences for all ages, and Audi Field is a great venue for watching them. Plus, since games only last 90 minutes, they’re not too long if young spectators get antsy.
Women’s pro soccer team, Washington Spirit, also play their matches at Audi Field — and they are always very exciting to watch!
Can’t stand the heat? Head to the CareFirst Arena in Southeast DC to see the Washington Mystics (w)hoop it up on the basketball court.
Swing up to Charm City to see the Baltimore Orioles play. Camden Yards is a beautiful ballpark, and there is so much more to do in Baltimore to make a longer day (or maybe even a weekend) of it — read about all of it here.
The Breeze, DC’s Ultimate Frisbee pro team, plays at Catholic University’s Carlini Field. It’s fast-paced, fun to watch, and there’s a welcoming family vibe — plus, kids 8 and under get in free!
Every summer, the Mubadala Citi DC Open Tennis Tournament serves up exciting competition along with other fun activities for fans of all ages. See some of the sport’s top players in action and enj9oy the thrills on and off the court at Rock Creek Park Tennis Center July 25 – August 2.
If the Nats or O’s aren’t in town, or you want to see baseball on a smaller but still fun scale, you’ve got several great options around the area. Take ’em out to the minors to see the Chesapeake Baysox, Fredericksburg Nationals, or Southern Maryland Blue Crabs play. Summer collegiate team Bethesda Big Train is also very popular for non-majors baseball action.
SEASONAL EXPERIENCES
Paddle your way around DC
Some particularly cool activities and offerings are only possible this time of year. Sure, you can say that’s most of this guide, but these experiences that fall into the “other” category shouldn’t be missed.
On Thursday evenings and some Saturdays during late spring and summer, the Anacostia Watershed Society hosts their free Discovery Series, which include boat tours, paddle tours, and wetland walks at a few local parks. Bladensburg Waterfront Park, Anacostia Park, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, and Diamond Teague Park are locations for these jaunts.
For other adventures on the water, a bunch of places around the area rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and stand up paddleboards. Fletcher’s Boathouse is a popular place to go and has a great riverside area to hang out and picnic when you’re off the water. Key Bridge Boathouse is a good launching point. You can also row from Ballpark Boathouse near Yards Park. This post has a whole round-up of even more places to go with the flow on local waterways.
Pick your own produce at local farms. While it starts in the spring with strawberries, it carries on through summer with even more delicious fruits — blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, plus veggies and more produce you can gather yourself. Find out where you can PYO around the DC area.
Join Anacostia Riverkeeper and Earth Conservation Corps on Friday evenings 5-8pm from June 21 – September 5 for Friday Night Fishing, their catch and release fishing program at the dock at Diamond Teague Park (located next to Yards Park). Rods, reels, bait, and instruction are free. No sign up is required.
Enjoy some fun in the trees navigating the best ropes courses in an aerial forest around! The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring is open in spring and fall, too, but summer is a great time to go when the kids are off school and weekdays are options too. Read about some of our experiences there here and here. And see some other area places where you can play in the trees.
Aaaaaar, mateys! As the weather warms up and cruising conditions become more comfortable, pirate voyages are offered on local waters. In DC, take a Family Treasure Hunt Cruise on the Boomerang Pirate Ship. Head out to Annapolis for Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake. Or go for a jaunt with Urban Pirates in Baltimore.
Some of the most spectacular flower blooms occur during the summer. View a whole park bursting with pink, white, and peach-hued lotus flowers and water lilies. Fields upon fields of sunflowers are sure to brighten any day. Stop and smell the roses at a favorite National Mall spot. Get details on all of them in this post about our bloom town.
Get rolling in Southeast! The Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion, the only skating pavilion within a national park, will officially welcome skaters daily from 9am – 5pm starting Memorial Day through Labor Day. Even better, both admission and skate rentals are FREE! (You can still BYO skates and roll around the rest of the year.) And along with skating, Anacostia Park offers all kinds of recreation, including large fields for sports and running around, tennis, fishing, basketball, biking, running, and three playgrounds. Read more about the park in this KFDC post.
CRAB FEASTS
One of the best treats of the season
Crab feasting easily is one of the best activities during summer in Maryland and neighboring areas (this is where I get non-DC-centric because I have to give credit where it’s due). Here are some suggestions for places to get ’em, though the “best” is always a subject for debate.
* Cantler’s is an Annapolis institution for many.
* Mike’s Crab House in Riva has a great tiki area if there’s a table wait.
* The Point in Arnold, MD, has become one of our favorite crabby spots.
* Enjoy great crabs and an awesome beach area at Kentmorr.
* The Jetty on Kent Narrows offers crabs, scenic views, and a fun beachy vibe.
* Skipper’s Pier in Deale has a waterfront location and Chesapeake views.
* Stay close to the city at Quarterdeck in Arlington.
* Eat crabs in the ‘burbs at Bethesda Crab House.
* Make it a day trip to Waterman’s in Rock Hall, MD.
* Pick up your own at The Fish Market at The Wharf. Buy them already steamed or get them while they’re still alive to cook at home.
KFDC TIPS FOR SUMMER
Plan a getaway to the woods
A few more random recommendations to consider with summer fun:
* If you’re looking for an easy getaway from DC, here are some ideas for places within driving distance.
* Add some extra fun to outdoor recreation with lawn games — always good to have some on hand.
* Look for discounts on tickets to sporting events and concerts (or for availability if events are sold out).
* TodayTix is also worth checking for deals on theatre tickets.
* Must have gear for summer: Sunscreen, mosquito repellant, water bottles, hats, easily portable cooler.
Have I left out anything really good? If you think so, let me know in the comments below!
transforms the Great Hall into a sculptural landscape that doesn’t just welcome, but encourages, visitors to play.
