Fun and learning in Newton’s Alley at the Maryland Science Center
Monday – Join National Park Service Rangers at the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site for the weekly Reading Ranger series. Geared toward children under 5 and their caregivers, the sessions include a fun and educational story time as well as a craft activity. Start time is 10:30am, and admission is free. The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House is located at 1318 Vermont Avenue NW.
Tuesday – Let little ones jump the morning away during Toddler Time at SkyZone. The trampoline park has locations in Columbia, Gaithersburg, and Manassas, and they all offer the special sessions for ages 5 and under from 9:30-11am on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Admission is $5.
Wednesday – Take your baby to see a movie. Well, really take yourself to see the movie, but feel comfortable bringing your baby along at a Crybaby Matinee. The Angelika Pop-Up at Union Market hosts the weekly series so moms with tiny ones can relax and enjoy a flick without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. This week’s screening of When Marine was There starts at 12pm, and admission is $8. If your babes are older, take them to see a movie on the really big screen. There are always several IMAX films playing at the Natural History Museum’s Johnson IMAX Theater and the Air & Space Museum’s Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater. Tickets are $9/adults, $7.50/youth. Be sure to check schedules for showtimes. And, of course, plan for some time before or after to explore the museums, too.
Thursday – Make your way up to Baltimore to visit the Maryland Science Center to explore a variety of cool hands-on exhibits, play in the Kids Room, check out the new Science & Main exhibit, and so much more. Hours are 10am – 5pm. Admission is $20.95/adults, $16.95/ages 3+, free for 2 and under. (I suggest checking out their membership options — if your family of 4 goes just twice in a year, it’s worth it. Plus, there’s reciprocity with other museums around the country.)
Friday – Join the National Portrait Gallery for some creative fun at an Open Studio Friday session. All ages are welcome to explore a different art medium each week with all kinds of neat projects. Drop in anytime from 1-6pm. Go earlier or stay after to explore the museum’s collections, too! Museum hours are 11:30am – 7pm. Admission is free. Read more about the Penn Quarter gallery in this KFDC post.
