Fun Things To Do With Kids: Washington, DC

Top 10 Free Things to Do This 4th of July Weekend in Washington DC Metro and Baltimore

Happy Independence Day! There are so many fireworks shows in Washington, DC and Baltimore metro areas this weekend, all you have to do is take your pick. 

Here are 10 free and fun activities that you can do with your family this weekend. Yes, many of them are fireworks show, but many places also hold free concerts and/or street festivals during the day. Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!

FREE: A Signature Event at the White House Visitor Center - Washington, DC
Sunday, July 4: 9 am - 3 pm

Stop by the White House Visitor Center on 4th of July to experience what it would be like to be a signer of the Declaration of Independence for a day. Events for the day (9 am to 3 pm) include games, crafts and activities for kids. At 11 am and 2 pm, you can play a role as a delegate to the Continental Congress and represent your colony. Sign a giant sized copy of the Declaration of Independence with your quill pen, ring a Liberty Bell and receive a copy of the Declaration of Independence as a keepsake.

The White House Visitor Center at 1450 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, is between 14th and 15th Streets, Washington, DC (map it).

FREE: Concerts at Reston Town Center - Reston, VA
Saturday, July 3: 11 am - 11:45 am and 7:30 pm - 10 pm
Monday, July 5: 10:30 am - 11:15 am

Check out several free outdoor concerts going on at Reston Town Center this weekend. Sing along with award-winning children's musician Mister Don on Saturday at 11 am as a part of Reston Town Center's Family Fun Series. Enjoy motion songs, sing alongs and rhythm instruments at this fun event for your entire family. On Saturday evening starting at 7:30 pm, bring your lawn chair to the town center's pavilion and enjoy performance by swing/big band jazz Upper East Side Big Band. On Monday at 10:30 am, enjoy performance by Mr. Knick Knack.

Reston Town Center is located at 11900 Market St, Reston, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Smithsonian Folklife Festival - Washington, DC
Friday, July 2: 11 am - 9 pm
Saturday, July 3: 11 am - 8 pm
Sunday, July 4: 11 am - 5:30 pm
Monday, July 5: 11 am - 5:30 pm

Live entertainment, arts and crafts, festival food and more at this street festival. Learn about cultures from various parts of the world and taste food from Asia and Mexico. Free admissions.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival is held on the National Mall between the Smithsonian museums in Washington, DC (map it). Download festival map.

FREE: National Mall Independence Day Celebration - Washington, DC
Sunday, July 4: 9:10 pm - 9:27 pm

Enjoy fireworks at the National Mall in Washington, DC. Free admissions. Take public transportation because traffic will be jammed after the fireworks. It is best to view the fireworks at a distance from the launch site (Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool), such as Lincoln Memorial, National Mall between 14th Street and 3rd Street, U.S. Marine Corp War Memorial/Iwo Jima and Thomas Jefferson Memorial. More on directions to National Mall.

FREE: Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration - Baltimore, MD
Sunday, July 4: 2 pm - 10 pm

Enjoy live performances at Baltimore Inner Harbor by jazz band Lovecraft at 2 pm and the Naval Academy's Electric Brigade band at 4 pm. Fireworks show starts at 9:30 pm. See the show from Harbor East, Federal Hill, Fell's Point, Canton and beyond.

Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration is held at Baltimore Inner Harbor, Maryland (map it).

FREE: Frederick's 4th - Frederick, MD
Sunday, July 4: 12 - 9 pm

Live entertainment, chili cook-off competition, festival food, kids activities and fireworks display. Activities at Kids Zones start at 12:30 and end at 7:30 pm, and they include inflatable amusements, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, remote control cars, mural painting and scavenger hunt. Live entertainment starts at 12:45. Free admissions. Many of the Kids Zones activities are also free; activities that require fees are inflatable amusements ($10 unlimited play), pony rides ($4 per ride) and face painting ($5 to $10). 

Frederick's 4th is held at Baker Park, Frederick, Maryland (map it). Free parking decks are available on Church St, Court St, W. Patrick St and Carroll Creek. Parking is also available at Frederick High School for $4 to benefit Frederick High School Sports Boosters. More on parking and directions.

FREE: July 4th Celebration and Fireworks Show - Vienna, VA
Sunday, July 4: 11 am - 4:30 pm with fireworks at 9:15 pm

Check out classic cars, grab a bite to eat at chili cook-off, participate in arts and crafts, have fun with family games and enjoy live music performances. Fireworks start at 9:15 pm at Southside Park in Vienna, Virginia. Free admissions.

Celebration is held on Vienna Community Center grounds, located at 20 Cherry St, SE, Vienna, Virginia (map it). Download map of the festival.

FREE: Herndon 4th of July Celebration - Herndon, VA
Sunday, July 4: 5 pm - 10 pm

Games, relay races, arts and crafts, bounce houses, small rides, bingo, festival food and more. Fireworks start at 9:30 pm. Free admissions; small rides and bounce houses have a charge per use. Parking is available at Herndon Middle School and Herndon Community Center. 

Festival takes place at Herndon Community Center, located at 814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Independence Day Celebration - Rockville, MD
Sunday, July 4: 7 pm - 10 pm

Enjoy band performances starting at 7 pm at Montgomery College - Rockville campus. Fireworks show starts at 9:30 pm.

Montgomery College - Rockville campus is located at 51 Mannakee St, Rockville, Maryland (map it).

FREE: Fourth of July Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony - Annapolis, MD
Sunday, July 4: 9:30 am - 2 pm

Celebrate Independence Day at the home of Declaration of Independence signer William Paca. Naturalization ceremony starts at 9:30 am, then family events start at 10 am. Activities include tours of the Pacas' home, live musical performances, a Revolutionary War encampment, patriotic crafts for kids and signing the Declaration of Independence with a quill pen. Free admissions.

Fourth of July Celebration is held at William Paca House and Garden, 186 Prince George St, Annapolis, Maryland (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids This Weekend: June 25 - 27, 2010

It doesn't look like we'll be getting a break from the heat in the next few days. So for this weekend's top 10 fun things to do with kids, I've included a few indoor activities so you and your family can stay cool. If you go to some of the street festivals that are going on this weekend, remember to pack your hat and sunblock!

FREE: Friday Night Live! Herndon Rocks - Herndon, VA
Friday, June 24: 6:30 pm

Enjoy live performance by Kristen and The Noise this Friday night in Historic Downtown Herndon, Virginia. Don't forget your blanket or lawn chairs, but leave your pet at home. Get there early since seating is first-come, first-served. Food and beverage vendors are available on site. Free admissions.

Friday Night Live! concert is held at the Town Green, located behind the new Municipal Building at 777 Lynn St, Herndon, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Sounds of Summer - Lansdowne, VA
Friday, June 24: 7 pm - 10 pm

Go see rock band JunkFood at Lansdowne Resort in Virginia this Friday night. Bring a blanket for lawn seating (first-come, first-served). You can also purchase picnic basket snacks, special drinks, grilled foods, fresh salads and Loudoun County wines at the concert. Free admissions.

Sounds of Summer concert is held at Lansdowne Resort, located at 44050 Woodridge Parkway, Lansdowne, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Smithsonian Folklife Festival - Washington, DC
Festival is held daily from Thursday, June 24, to Monday, July 5. Hours this weekend:
Friday, June 25 - Sunday, June 27: 11 am - 5:30 pm with evening concerts from 5:30 pm to 8 pm.

Learn about cultural traditions from around the world at Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, DC. Enjoy live entertainment, check out arts, view cooking demonstrations and try traditional food from around the world. This weekend's special activities for kids include pinball painting, Japanese doll-making, kids' games from Mexico, Burmese ball sport of Chinlone, Thai calligraphy and tortilla making. See the complete schedule of events. Free admissions.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival is held at the National Mall in Washington, DC. Parking is limited, so it is best to take the Metro to Smithsonian station (Mall exit). Download festival map.

How I Became a Pirate at Imagination Stage - Bethesda, MD
Friday, June 24: 10:30 am
Saturday, June 25: 1:30 pm, 4 pm and 7 pm
Sunday, June 26: 1:30 pm and 4 pm 

Arr! Join the journey of Jeremy Jacob as he becomes a pirate in this spirited musical adventure. Recommended for kids ages 3 and up. Tickets range from $9.25 to $27, depending on seating area. Get your tickets online.

Imagination Stage is located at 4908 Auburn Ave, Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

Occoquan River Festival - Occoquan, VA
Saturday, June 26: 12 pm - 7 pm

View craft demonstrations, check out sidewalk sales, enjoy live music and say hello to costumed historical reenactors at Occoquan River Festival. There is also a petting zoo and pony rides for the kids. The festival also includes Taste of Occoquan with nine participating local restaurants.

Occoquan River Festival is held at the historic Town of Occoquan in Virginia (map it).

FREE: Grand Re-Opening Open House of the Story Tellers - Occoquan, VA
Saturday, June 26: 11 am - 5 pm

Join the Story Tellers for the grand re-opening open house of their boutique bokstore before you check out the Occoquan River Festival. Open house starts at 11 am and activities include a scavenger hunt, hourly prize giveaways and face painting. Refreshments are also available. Call 703-494-1994 for more information.

The Story Tellers is located at 304 Mill St, Occoquan, Virginia (map it).

Farmer Jason at Jammin' Java - Vienna, VA
Saturday, June 26: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Dance and sing along to country rock music by Farmer Jason at Jammin' Java in Vienna. Farmer Jason won Parents Choice Gold Award for Rockin' in the Forest with Farmer Jason and an Emmy for It's a Farmer Jason PBS video interstitial program. Tickets are $8 for those who are 12 months and older. Get your tickets online.

Jammin' Java is located at 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna, Virginia (map it).

Bob the Builder at Port Discovery Children's Museum - Baltimore, MD
Friday, June 25 and Saturday, June 26: 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday, June 27: 12 pm - 5 pm

Join the Bob the Builder and the rest of the Can-Do Crew at Port Discovery Children's Museum. Your kids can experiment with tools in Bob's building workshop, install new parts in Bob the Builder's mobile home, learn about water conservation and participate in other fun activities. Tickets are $12.95 for those 2 years and older, and free for kids under 2. Get your tickets online.

Port Discovery Children's Museum is located at 35 Market Place, Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

Glow-in-the-Dark Bowling at Strike Bethesda - Bethesda, MD
Friday, June 25 and Saturday, June 26: 11 am - 2 am
Sunday, June 27: 11 am - 11 pm
(No admittance for anyone under 21 years old after 9 pm)

Hit the lanes with your kids this weekend at Strike Bethesda. It's not just any bowling alley; your kids will have fun with the bright color bowling balls, glow-in-the-dark lanes, fun music, big screen video walls and yummy food. Recommended for kids ages 4 and up.

Strike Bethesda is located at 5353 Westbard Ave, Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

Sunday Fun Skate at Skate-N-Fun Zone - Manassas, VA
Sunday, June 27: 12 pm - 4 pm

Stay active and have fun with your kids at Skate-N-Fun Zone. From 12 to pm on Sunday, they have Sunday Fun Skate for families. Admissions are $6.50 per person and skate rentals are $4.25. You can also get the Fun Pak, which includes 4 admissions, 4 skate rentals and 20 game tokens for $37.99. 

Skate-N-Fun Zone is located at 7878 Sudley Rd, Manassas, Virginia (map it).

Top 5 Free Things to Do with Kids In Washington, DC, This Father's Day Weekend 2010

Happy Father's Day, dads! Check out these 5 free things to do with your kids in Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia this special weekend.

FREE: Father's Day Open House at Friendship Firehouse - Alexandria, VA
Friday, June 18: 10 am - 4 pm
Saturday, June 19: 10 am - 4 pm
Sunday, June 20: 1 pm - 4 pm

Go on a special tour of Friendship Firehouse Museum in Alexandria, Virginia, where every dad gets to be an honorary Chief of the Friendship Fire company Bucket Brigade. He and his kids get to ring the fire bell, receive a certificate and get a picture taken with the Friendship fire engine. Admission is free.

Friendship Firehouse is located at 107 S. Alfred St, Alexandria, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Herndon Rocks! Friday Night Live - Herndon, VA
Friday, June 18: 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm

This Friday night, bring your kids and lawn chairs to go see Dr. FU, a rock cover band. Admission is free.

Herndon Rocks! Friday Night Live is held at 777 Lynn Street, Herndon, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Become a Pilot: Family Day at National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center - Chantilly, VA
Saturday, June 19: 10 am - 3 pm

During Family Day this Saturday, you and your family can check out over 50 vintage, recreational, military and homebuilt aircraft; talk to pilots to learn more about skills needed to fly and test your piloting skills in flight simulators. The museum also has story time and hands-on activities for kids. Admission to the museum is free, but parking is $15 per car.

National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located at 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway Chantilly, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Festa Italiana - Washington, DC
Sunday, June 20: 11:30 am - 5:30 pm

Come join the 12th annual Italian street festival this Sunday in Washington, DC. This festival is presented by the Italian Cultural Society and the Holy Rosary Church. Enjoy live music, learn Italian folk dance, learn to cook Italian dishes in cooking lessons, eat delicious dishes created by Italian chefs, get free travel information for Molise, check out a display of famous Italian cars (Lamborghini, Ferrari and Maserati) and enter for a chance to win a trip for two to Italy. Activities for kids include arts, crafts, a magic show, a juggling lesson and performance by a family circus. See schedule of events. Admission is free.

Festa Italiana is held at 3rd and F Streets, NW, Washington, DC (map it).

FREE: Revels Sunfest - Silver Spring, MD
Sunday, June 20: 1 pm - 5 pm

Attend this multi-cultural performing arts festival to celebrate the Summer Solstice. Check out solstice celebrations from around the world, such as Bolivia, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Nepal, Peru, South Africa and West Africa. Parade, Raising the Sun ceremony, dance performances and arts and crafts for kids. Admission is free.

Revels Sunfest is held in downtown Silver Spring, on Ellsworth St, between Fenton Ave and Georgia Ave (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Washington, DC, This Weekend: June 12 - 13, 2010

I hope you and your family are enjoying this summer! I myself can't believe that it's June already - did we skip May? Well, we still have 12 weekends before Labor Day, so let's enjoy this summer. 

Check out top 10 fun things to do with kids in Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia this weekend: June 12 - 13, 2010.

Celebrate Fairfax! - Fairfax, VA
Saturday, June 12: 10 am - midnight
Sunday, June 13: 11 am - 7 pm

Carnival rides, vendor exhibits, festival food, family-friendly live entertainment and petting zoo. Admission fees per day are $12 for adults, $5 for kids 3 to 12 and free for kids under 3. Admission fees include free access to concerts, entertainment and exhibits. Tickets for carnival rides are sold separately for $25 per day.

Celebrate Fairfax! Festival is held at the Government Center, located at 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, Virginia (map it). Park at one of the designated parking lots for the festival and take a free shuttle bus from the parking lot. More on parking and directions to the festival.

FREE: Celebrate Mama - Washington, DC
Sunday, June 13: 10 am - 4 pm

Check out over 30 vendors that feature products and services for kids and families as well as family-friendly entertainment at Celebrate Mama. Free admissions and the first 300 guests get to be bring home a fun goody bag, also for free. They also have a charity raffle that benefits the March of Dimes. Performers include Little Maestro's at 11:30 am, the Singing Lizard at 12:30 pm and Barely Five Feet at 2 pm.

Celebrate Mama is held at University Yard on the George Washington University campus, located on 20th Street between G and H Streets, NW, Washington, DC (map it). Park on the street or take the Metro to Foggy Bottom Metro station.

FREE: Bethesda Artist Market - Bethesda, MD
Saturday, June 12: 10 am - 5 pm

Enjoy live entertainment and check out 25 local and regional artists showcase their fine arts and crafts and the Bethesda Artist Market. Free admissions. 

Bethesda Artist Market is held at Veterans Park, on Norfolk Avenue between Fairmont and St. Elmo Avenues in Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

Cherry Picking at Homestead Farm - Poolesville, MD
Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13: 9 am - 6 pm

Grab a bag and pick tart cherries at Homestead Farm. You can also check out their market, where they have picked produce, various preserves and their own honey. Your kids can also say hello to farm animals at the farm. On the weekends, they have a country kitchen that serves hot dogs and refreshments. Call 301-977-3761 to confirm availability before you go.

Homestead Farm is located at 15604 Sugarland Rd, Poolesville, Maryland (map it).

Giggles: "The girl who made the whole world laugh" - Washington, DC
Saturday, June 12: 10:30 am and 12:30 pm

Enjoy this live performance where you can follow Giggles, a little girl who was born without a voice, but with the ability to giggle. The story will teach your kids that being different is okay and family is what you make it. Call 202-633-3030 for tickets availability.

Giggles is playing at S. Dillon Ripley Center, Discovery Theater, 3rd Sublevel, 1100 Jefferson Drive, SW, Washington, DC (map it).

FREE: Good Vibes Peace Festival - Silver Spring, MD
Saturday, June 12: 10 am - 3 pm

Good Vibes Peace Festival is presented by Meditation Museum in Silver Spring, Maryland. Live music, henna and face painting, cooking for peace and dancing for peace are among the many activities at Good Vibes Peace Festival. Design kites to be sent to Haiti as tokens of remembrance. Free admissions.

The festival is held in the Pyramid Atlantic parking lot, next to Meditation Museum, located at 8236 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, Maryland (map it).

Leesburg Animal Park - Leesburg, VA
Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13: 10 am - 5 pm with craft show from 12 pm to 3 pm

Feed camels, nilgai antelopes, llamas, sheep, goat and other animals at Leesburg Animal Park. Say hello to gibbons, zebras, an African serval cat, peacocks and more animals. Your kid can also ride a pony and go on a wagon ride. This weekend, there is a special craft show at the animal park from 12 to 3 pm.

Admission fees are $9.95 for adults, $7.95 for kids ages 2 and older and free for kids under 2. See my review of Leesburg Animal Park.

Leesburg Animal Park is located at 19270 James Monroe Highway, Leesburg, Virginia (map it).

FREE: On Stage Concert Series - Gaithersburg, MD
Saturday, June 12, 2010: 7 pm

Enjoy a free performance by a local rock band, Big Sur, this Saturday as a part of On Stage Concert Series in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs and food for a fun picnic with your family.

Gaithersburg City Hall Concert Pavilion is located at 31 South Summit Ave, Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it). 

The Shushybyes - Vienna, VA
Saturday, June 12: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Your preschooler will love dancing to music that combines catchy rock, swing jazz, Latin, R&B and more. Admissions are $8 per person (12 months and older). Get your tickets online.

The Shushybyes' peformance is held at at Jammin' Java, located at 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Washingtonian Center Summer Concert - Gaithersburg, MD
Saturday, June 12: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Ride a pedal boat on Washingtonian Lake, grab an early dinner with your family at Washingtonian Center, then head to Lakefront Plaza, between Uncle Julio's and Joe's Crab Shack, to enjoy a free summer concert. This Saturday, DC Motors perform classic rock and oldies at the plaza.

Washingtonian Center is located at 9811 Washingtonian Blvd, Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it).

Rainy Day Activities in Washington, DC Metro Today, June 9, 2010

Where did the sun go this morning? No worries! You can still have fun with the kids on this rainy day. Here are several open play times in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia and Maryland that you can go to today.

At Play Cafe - Reston, VA
Open play time at At Play Cafe today is from 9:30 am to 7 pm. Fees: $8 for the first child and $6 for each additional sibling. Babies under 8 months are free. Read my review of At Play Cafe.

At Play Cafe is located at 2254B Hunters Woods Plaza, Reston, Virginia (map it).

The Family Room - Washington, DC
Open play time at the Family Room today is from 9 am to 6 pm. Fees: $10 for the first child and $5 for each additional sibling. If you stop by after 3 pm, fee is $5 per child. Call 202-640-1865 for more information.

The Family Room is located at 411 8th St SE, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC (map it).

FunFit Family Fitness - Rockville, MD
Open play time at FunFit Family Fitness today is from 10 am to 2 pm. Fees for members: $7 per child, $6 for each additional sibling and $15 per family maximum. Fees for non-members: $9 per child, $8 for each additional sibling and $20 per family maximum.

FunFit Family Fitness is located at 17511 Redland Rd , Rockville, Maryland (map it).

JW Tumbles - Arlington, VA
Open play time at JW Tumbles of Arlington today is from 9 am to 1 pm. Fees: $6 for members enrolled in a class, $8 for members not enrolled in a class and $10 for non-members. Call 703-531-1471 for more information.

JW Tumbles of Arlington is located at 2499 N. Harrison St, Arlington, Virginia (map it).

MoBu Kids - Falls Church, VA
Open play time at MoBu Kids today is from 12:30 pm to 5 pm. Call 703-241-PLAY for more information.

MoBu Kids is located at 442 South Washington St, Falls Church, Virginia (map it).

Pump It Up - Leesburg, VA
Pop in play time at Pump It Up today is from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. Fees: $10 per child. For kids ages 2 to 12. Call 703-443-1400 for more information.

Pump It Up is located at 73 Lawson Road SE, Leesburg, Virginia (map it).

Sport Bounce of Loudoun - Ashburn, VA
There are two open gym times at Sport Bounce of Loudoun today: from 10 am to 11:30 am (for kids 18 months to 6 years) and from 12 pm to 1:30 pm (for kids 18 months and older). Fees: $10 for the first child (2 and older), $8 for each additional sibling (2 and older), $6 for kids ages 18 to 24 months. Call 703-729-9522 for more information.

Sport Bounce of Loudoun is located at 44710 Cape Ct., Suite #116, Ashburn, Virginia (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Washington, DC, This Weekend: June 4 - 6, 2010

Does this weekend seem so short to you, or is it because we had a 3-day weekend last week? Anyway, happy weekend! Check out top 10 things to do with kids in Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia this weekend: June 4 - 6, 2010. 

FREE: Herndon Festival - Herndon, VA
Thursday, June 3: 6 pm - 10 pm
Friday, June 4: 5 pm - 11 pm
Saturday, June 5: 10 am - 11 pm
Sunday, June 6: 11 am - 6 pm

Check out live family-friendly entertainment, children's hands-on art activities, carnival rides, festival food and more fun activities to keep your kids entertained at Herndon Festival. Bike to the festival and get a valet service for free, or drive to either Worldgate Center or Herndon High School and take a free shuttle bus to the festival. Admissions are free, and carnival rides start at $1 per ticket or $15 per day on Thursday and Saturday for an all-day access to all rides.

Herndon Festival is held at downtown Herndon, Virginia. More on directions and see festival map.

Great Country Farms - Bluemont, VA
Open daily: 9 am - 6 pm

Play in a 5-acre farm play area, which includes four mazes, three 60-foot tube slides, 2,800-square-feet jumping pillow, rope swings and a tractor tire mountain. Other activities that your family can enjoy at the farms include 18-hole cow pie putt-putt course, farm animals, antique tractors and an imagination village. Admissions are $8 per person and free for kids ages 2 and younger.

Great Country Farms are located at 18780 Foggy Bottom Road  Bluemont, Virginia (map it).

Curious George, Let's Get Curious! at Port Discovery - Baltimore, MD
Friday, June 4: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Saturday, June 5: 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday, June 6: 12 pm - 5 pm

Curious George: Let's Get Curious! is a special exhibit at Port Discovery, a children's museum in Baltimore, Maryland. Have fun with this interactive adventure that are based on math, science and engineering. Admission fees are $12.95 per person and free for kids ages 2 and younger.

Port Discovery is located at 35 Market Place, Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

FREE: Planetarium at Rock Creek Park - Washington, DC
Saturday, June 5 - Sunday, June 6: 1 pm and 4 pm

Visit the only planetarium in the National Park System. There are two shows this weekend at the planetarium at Rock Creek Park. The 1 pm show (Spring Night Sky: When I Wish Upon a Star) is recommended for kids ages 5 and older, where they get to view the season's brightest stars, planets and constellations. The 4 pm show (Exploring the Universe) is recommended for kids ages 7 and older, where they get to explore the sun, moon, stars and planets. Admissions are free; get your tickets 30 minutes before the show starts.

The Nature Center/Planetarium at Rock Creek Park is located at 5200 Glover Road NW, Washington, DC (map it).

Things That Roll - Gaithersburg, MD
Saturday, June 5: 10 am - 12 pm

Your preschooler gets to take his or her scooter, Big Wheels, or anything else that can roll for a fun time at the Skate Park. Helmets are required! A limited supply of Big Wheels, scooters, helmets and safety gears are available, so it's best to bring your own equipment. Admissions are $3 per resident child, $5 per non-resident child and free for parents. No pre-registration is necessary, simply register at the gate. Call 301-258-6350, extension 168 for more information.

The Skate Park is located at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 S Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it).

Hullabaloo Band - Vienna, VA
Saturday, June 5: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Hullabaloo Band is an award-winning band that features farm-fresh, free-range, organic kid-folk music. Admissions are $8 per person and free for babies younger than 12 months old. Get your tickets online.

Hullabaloo Band's performance is held at Jammin' Java, located at 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna, Virginia (map it). 

Imagination Bethesda - Bethesda, MD
Saturday, June 5: 11 am - 4 pm

The 17th annual Imagination Bethesda is a fun street festival geared towards kids ages 12 and under. Activities and entertainment include face painting, hands-on creative activities, balloonists and family-friendly performers. 

The festival is held on Woodmont Avenue between Bethesda Avenue and Elm Street in downtown Bethesda, Maryland. More on directions and parking.

FREE: Occoquan Craft Show - Occoquan, VA
Saturday, June 5: 10 am - 6 pm
Sunday, June 6: 10 am - 5 pm

Get your holiday shopping done early! The Occoquan Craft Show features local merchants, crafters, food vendors and live entertainment. Admissions are free. 

The craft show is located in the historic Town of Occoquan, Virginia. Shuttle bus is available at designated parking lots for $4 per person or free for kids under the age of 12. More on directions and parking.

Virginia Renaissance Faire: Pirate Invasion - Spotsylvania, VA
Saturday, June 5 and Sunday, June 6: 10 am - 5 pm

Visit an English country village and meet nobles, merchants, artisans and the queen herself. Children's activities include arts and crafts, puppetry and interactive fairy tales. This weekend's theme is pirate invasion, where you get to meet pirates and privateers. Admissions are $8 per person and free for kids 5 and under.

Virginia Renaissance Festival is held at 5621 Courthouse Rd, Spotsylvania, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Love Your Body, Northern Virginia Yoga and Wellness Day - Reston, VA
Sunday, June 6: 10 am - 4 pm

Try a yoga class, learn about holistic wellness, sample drinks and snacks and get a massage. Kid yoga is scheduled from 12:20 pm to 12:40 pm and teen yoga is scheduled from 12:45 pm to 1:10 pm.

Northern Virginia Yoga and Wellness Day is held at Reston Town Center Pavilion, located at 11900 Market Street, Reston, Virginia (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Washington, DC, This Memorial Day Weekend: May 29 - 31, 2010

This weekend marks the start of summer for many families as well as a very important reminder to honor the men and women who have served our country. Here are fun activities that you can do with your kids this Memorial Day Weekend.

FREE: Monuments and Memorials - Washington, DC

Take the time to pay tribute to those who have served our country by visiting the various monuments and memorials in Washington, DC. Go early before it gets too hot and so you can find good parking spots if you prefer to drive. Start with Washington Monument, walk to National WWII Memorial, then pass the reflecting pool and keep going to Lincoln Memorial. On your walk back to Washington Monument, stop by Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

Washington Monument is located at 2 15st NW, Washington, DC‎ (map it).

FREE: Viva Vienna - Vienna, VA
Saturday, May 29 - Sunday, May 30: 10 am - 10 pm
Monday, May 31: 10 am - 6 pm

Go on fun amusement rides, check out retail vendors and grab a bite to eat from various food vendors at Viva Vienna. They also have a children's stage on Sunday and Monday from 1 pm to 4:45 pm. Admissions are free. See festival schedule.

Viva Vienna is held at 245 Maple Ave W, Vienna, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Hometown Holidays - Rockville, MD
Saturday, May 29 - Sunday, May 30: 1 pm - 10 pm
Monday, May 31: 9 am - 1 pm

Enjoy free live entertainment, arts, crafts and kids activities at Hometown Holidays in Rockville, Maryland. Fun activities for kids include moonbounces, a rock climbing wall, a swing ride, a spin ride and more. Kids activities are available on Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm to 10 pm.

Also check out kids' stage on Saturday at 2, 4 and 5:30 pm and on Sunday at 2, 4 and 6 pm. Monday's events include a band performance, a ceremony and a parade. Admissions to the event and live entertainment are free, but not all of the kids activities are free.

Hometown Holidays are held at Rockville Town Square in Rockville, Maryland (map it). See map of event.

Newseum - Washington, DC
Saturday, May 28 - Monday, May 31: 9 am - 5 pm

Visit this interactive museum in Washington, DC, where you can see the Berlin Wall Gallery, 9/11 Gallery, an Elvis exhibit, Presidential Pets exhibit and more. Your kids will have fun pretending to be a TV reporter, too.

Admission fees are $19.95 for adults, $17.95 for seniors (65+), $17.95 for military with a valid military ID, $17.95 for students with a valid student ID, $12.95 for kids 7 to 18 and free for kids 6 and younger. Get your tickets online to save 10% or download a coupon to save 25%. The 25% off offer is valid during Memorial Day weekend only.

Newseum is located at 555 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC (map it).

FREE for Military Personnel: WaterWorks at Kings Dominion - Doswell, VA
Sunday, May 29 - Monday, May 31: 12 pm

WaterWorks is a 20-acre waterpark at Kings Dominion. Check out tidal waves, rafting, giant waves, tubing, water slides and more. Private cabanas are also available for rent. Admissions are free with Kings Dominion park admission. Stay late and enjoy firework displays at 10 pm at the park.

Admission fees are $33.99 per person if you buy your tickets online. Kids 2 and under are free. Active duty and retired military personnel can get free admissions on Sunday, May 30th and Monday, May 31st. Just show a valid military ID or discharge papers.

Kings Dominion is located at 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, Virginia (map it).

Splash Down Waterpark - Manassas, VA
Sunday, May 29 - Monday, May 31: 11 am - 6 pm

Splash Down Waterpark is Northern's Virginia largest waterpark. At this 13-acre park, you'll find a lazy river, cannon ball slides, 4-story water slides, a lap pool and more. Admission fees are $14.95 for those 48" and taller, $10.95 for those under 48" and free for kids 2 and under. Get your tickets online.

Splash Down Waterpark is located at 7500 Ben Lomond Park Drive, Manassas, Virginia (map it).

Strawberry Festival - Delaplane, VA
Sunday, May 29 - Monday, May 31: 10 am - 5 pm

Take a drive to Strawberry Festival in Delaplane, Virginia, to enjoy music, crafts, field games for kids, hay rides, pony rides, a petting zoo, puppet shows and plenty of ripe strawberries, of course! Fees for 1 day passes: $20 per car or $10 per motorcycle. Bus with more than 15 passengers is $5 per person.

The Strawberry Festival is held at Sky Meadows State Park, located at 11012 Edmonds Lane, Delaplane, Virginia (map it).

Sunset Celebration at Mount Vernon - Mount Vernon, VA
Saturday, May 28 - Monday, May 31: 6 pm - 9 pm

Take evening tours and enjoy wine and desserts, 18th-century music, dancing, games and wagon rides. Say hello to Lady Washington and her granddaughter Nelly. Fees: $18 for adults, $12 for kids 6 to 11 and free for kids under 5. Get your tickets online.

George Washington's Mount Vernon is located at 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia (map it).

FREE: PBS National Memorial Concert - Washington, DC
Sunday, May 30: 8 pm - 9:30 pm

Free concert to the public on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol - no tickets are needed. Concert starts at 8 pm, but gates open at 5 pm. Taking public transportation is strongly recommended due to limited parking, street closings and high volume of traffic. You can take the Metro to Capitol South, Federal Center SW, or Union Station.

Access to concert is from Southwest area of the Capitol grounds. See map of the Capitol.

FREE: National Memorial Day Parade - Washington, DC
Monday, May 31: 2 pm

The National Memorial Day Parade is brought to you by the American Veterans Center. You can take the Metro to Archives/Navy Memorial, Smithsonian and Federal Triangle.

The parade will start at the corner of Constitution Avenue and 7th Street, NW. See parade route.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids This Weekend: May 15 - 16, 2010

I'm glad that the storm and hail went away, because we're ready for a sunny weekend! Check out top 10 fun things to do with kids this weekend in Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia: May 15 - 16, 2010.

FREE: Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival at Reston Town Center - Reston, VA
Saturday, May 15 and 16: 10 am - 6 pm

Experience art and enjoy live entertainment at the 19th Annual Northern Virginia Fine Art Festival, a street festival that's fun for the entire family. There is a special Children's Art Tent where kids get to discover and create wonderful arts, from contributing to a community mural to learning the science behind paint.

Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival is held at Reston Town Center. The Children's Art Tent is at the intersection of St. Francis Street and Town Square Street in Reston, Virginia (map it).

Mini Golf at Fairfax County Parks - Fairfax County, VA

Take your kids out for some mini golf fun - no $400 putter needed! Here are several Fairfax County parks that offer miniature golf: Oak-Marr Mini Golf, Burke Lake Park Mini Golf, Lucky Duck Miniature Golf Course at Accotink Lake Park and Jefferson Falls Mini Golf at Jefferson District Park. 

Fees vary by location, but they are typically between $4 and $6 per person.

Oak-Marr is located at 3200 Jermantown Rd in Oakton, Virginia (map it)
Burke Lake Park is located at 7315 Ox Road in Fairfax Station, Virginia (map it)
Accotink Lake Park is located at 7500 Accotink Park Rd in Springfield, Virginia (map it)
Jefferson District Park is located at 7900 Lee Highway in Falls Church, Virginia (map it)

FREE: Gaithersburg Book Festival - Gaithersburg, MD
Saturday, May 15: 10 am - 6 pm

Meet and greet kids' favorite authors, enjoy a story time and participate in fun workshops and an art project for kids at Gaithersburg Book Festival in Gaithersburg this Saturday. Storytelling is scheduled for 12:30 pm, art project is between 10 am and 1 pm as well as between 2pm and 4:30 pm and workshops are scheduled throughout the day. Free admissions and free parking.

Gaithersburg Book Festival is held at Gaithersburg City Hall Grounds located at 31 S. Summit Ave in Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it).

The Red Balloon at Adventure Theatre - Glen Echo, MD
Saturday, May 15: 11 am, 1:30 pm and 4 pm
Sunday, May 16: 11 am and 1:30 pm

Based on the 1956 film and book Le Ballon Rouge by Albert Lamorisse, this play is about a young boy who discovers a stray balloon and then wonders through the streets of Paris with the balloon. Both parents and kids will be delighted with this classic story. Recommended for kids ages 4 and up. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for kids ages 12 and under. Get your tickets online.

The Red Balloon is held at the Adventure Theatre in historic Glen Echo Park, located at 7300 MacArthur Blvd in Glen Echo (map it).

FREE: Family Activities & Storytime at National Museum of American Indian - Washington, DC
Saturday, May 15: 1 pm - 3:30 pm

Learn about the culture of American Indians through hands-on activities, such as beading, weaving, twining or creating a paper star quilt pattern from 1 to 3 pm. Storytimes are at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm.

National Museum of American Indian is located at Independence Avenue Southwest & 4th St SW in Washington, DC (map it).

The Great Zucchini Magic Show - Vienna, VA
Saturday, May 15: 10:30 am

See the Great Zucchini, Washington's magical preschool and kidergarten entertainer, performs a fun magic show at Jammin' Java in Vienna, Virginia. Your kid even gets to learn a magic trick! Tickets are $8 for everyone 12 months and older. Get your tickets online.

Jammin' Java is located at 227 Maple Ave E in Vienna, Virginia (map it).

Curious George: Let's Get Curious! at Port Discovery - Baltimore, MD
Saturday, May 15: 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday, May 16: 12 pm - 5 pm

Your kid will enjoy interactive math, science and engineering in his or her adventure with Curious George at Port Discovery. Tickets are $12.95 for adults, $12.95 for kids ages 2 to 12 and free for kids younger than 2. Get your tickets online.

Port Discovery is located at 35 Market Place in Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

FREE: Taste of Arlington - Arlington, VA
Sunday, May 16: 12 - 5 pm

Enjoy this lively street festival, where you and your family get to see live entertainment from local artists and fun kids' activities as well as sample delicious food from over 40 restaurants in Ballston area of Arlington, Virginia. Kids' activities include live entertainment and moon bounces. Free admissions, but tickets are required for food and drinks. Get your food tickets online.

Taste of Arlington is held on Wilson Blvd, in front of Ballston Common Mall in Arlington, Virginia (map it.

Open Gym Time at Jumping Jack Sports - Ashburn, VA
Saturday, May 15: 7 pm - 9 pm

Climb on cargo net, go through an inflatable obstacle course, traverse on a rock wall and other activities that will get your kids active through the whole time. Open gym time is for all ages, but kids 6 years and under must be supervised by parents. Fees are $10 for kids 2 years and older, $8 for siblings and $6 for kids ages 18 months to 2 years. Call 703-858-9901 for more information.

Jumping Jack Sports is located at 44710 Cape Court Suite 128 in Ashburn, Virginia (map it).

FREE: Kids Yoga on National Mall (DC Yoga Week) - Washington, DC
Saturday, May 15: 1 pm

Bring your yoga mat, snacks, drinks and your kid for a kids yoga session during DC Yoga Week by the Washington Monument. Free admissions.

Kids Yoga on National Mall takes at place at the northeast corner of the Washington Monument, near the intersection of 15th St. and Constitution Avenue in Washington, DC (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Washington, DC, Metro This Mother's Day Weekend: May 7 - 9, 2010

Happy Mother's Day, fellow moms!

I hope you get to pamper yourself and relax a little this weekend. When you're all done with your spa appointment, check out these fun things to do with your kids in Washington, DC, Baltimore and Northern Virginia this Mother's Day weekend. Or get your partner to take your kids out this weekend so you can extend your spa stay!

FREE - Friday Night Live - Herndon, VA
Friday, May 7: 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm

Enjoy this free concert with your family in Herndon, Virginia. It's a part of a summer concert series, with the season kicking off this Friday, May 7th, with 2U - The U2 Tribute Band. Free admissions. Call 703-481-6133 for more information. 

Friday Night Live! concert is held at 777 Lynn Street in Herndon, Virginia (map it).

Kids Night Out at JW Tumbles - Herndon, VA
Friday, May 7: 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Drop off your kids at JW Tumbles of Herndon for games, a mother's day craft, pizza party and a G-rated movie. For kids ages 3 to 7; kids must be potty trained. Fees: $25 for members, $30 for non-members, 2nd child is 20% off and 3rd child is free. Pre-register online or call 703-481-2990 for more information.

JW Tumbles of Herndon is located at 12950 Highland Crossing Drive, Upper Level in Herndon, Virginia (map it).

At Play Cafe - Reston, VA
Friday, May 7: 9:30 am - 7 pm
Saturday, May 8: 9:30 am - 7 pm
Sunday, May 9: 12 pm - 3 pm

Your kids will have fun playing in the supervised play area while you sip on a latte nearby. Oh yeah, they have free wireless Internet! Read review of At Play Cafe. Fees: $8 per child, $6 for sibilings.

By the way, here's a great Mother's Day present: give that special mom a monthly pass to At Play Cafe, available for 50% off from May 2nd to May 9th! The monthly pass normally costs $60, but you can get it for only $30 up until Mother's Day.

At Play Cafe is located at 2254B Hunters Woods Plaza in Reston, Virginia (map it).

FREE - Washingtonian Center Summer Concert - Gaithersburg, MD
Saturday, May 8: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Take a walk with your kids around the Washingtonian lake and enjoy the outdoor summer concert starting at 6:30 pm on Saturday, May 8th. This Saturday, 8 ohms, a funk and soul band from Annapolis, will be performing on the Lakefront Plaza (between Uncle Julio's and Joe's Crab Shack). Free.

Washingtonian Center is located at 9811 Washingtonian Boulevard in Gaithersburg, Maryland (map it).

FREE - Bethesda Fine Arts - Bethesda, MD
Saturday, May 8: 10 am - 6 pm
Sunday, May 9: 10 am - 5 pm

Check out and shop for fine arts and crafts from more than 140 artists at Bethesda Fine Arts. See various performances, from Junkyard Saints performing New Orleans-style party music to Georgetown Quintet.

Bethesda Fine Arts will be held at Bethesda's Woodmont Triangle: Del Ray, Auburn and Norfolk Avenues (map it).

Alex and the Kaleidoscope Band - Vienna, VA
Saturday, May 8: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Watch this award-winning kids' band perform at Jammin' Java in Vienna, Virginia. Alex and the Kaleidoscope Band performs energetic songs with a mix of original world music and inspiring lyrics. Admission fees: $10 for anyone over 12 months old. Get your tickets online.

Jammin' Java is located 227 Maple Ave E in Vienna, Virginia (map it).

Space Day at Maryland Science Center - Baltimore, MD
Saturday, May 8: 12 pm - 4 pm

Explore out of this world activities at Maryland Science Center this Saturday. Learn about rockets, our solar system, hands-on activities and giveaways. Meet space scientists and special guests from Goddard Space Flight Center, Space Telescope Institute, Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and model rocket clubs. Admission fees: $14.95 for adults, $11.95 for kids ages 3 to 12, $13.95 for seniors (60+), free for kids under 3 and free for members.

Maryland Science Center is located at 601 Light Street in Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

Mom Prom and Family Affair at Gaylord National - National Harbor, MD
Saturday, May 8: 7 pm - 10 pm

Take a mini vacation this Mother's Day weekend at Gaylor National Hotel for an extra special Mother's Day weekend. The hotel is hosting a dance party for the entire family on Saturday night. This special event includes special mother-son and father-daughter dance moments. Then go the Mother's Day reception from 8 to 9 am on Sunday morning. Book online.

Gaylord National is located at 201 Waterfront Street in National Harbor, Maryland (map it).

FREE for Moms - Tour Historic Houses - Alexandria, VA
Sunday, May 29: 1 - 5 pm

Free tours on Mother's Day for moms! Tour Gadsby's Tavern Museum, Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum and the Lee-Fendall House in Old Town Alexandria. Fees: free for moms, $5 for all other adults, $3 for kids ages 5 to 12 and free for kids under 5. Call 703-746-4242 for more information.

Gadsby's Museum and Tavern is located at 134 North Royal Street in Alexandria, Virginia (map it).
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is located at 105-107 South Fairfax Street in Alexandria,Virginia (map it).
Lee-Fendall House is located at 614 Oronoco Street in Alexandria, Virginia (map it).

FREE - Fiesta Asia Planet Family at the National Zoo - Washington, DC
Sunday, May 9: 1 pm - 3 pm

Enjoy eight different performances from various Asian cultures at the National Zoo's Lion/Tiger Hill Stage. Watch the lion dance, drumming and martial arts; learn the bamboo dance, the Bollywood dance, Okinawan drumming and the panda dance! Free admissions.

The National Zoo is located at 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW, in Washington, DC (map it).

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids This Weekend: April 30 - May 2, 2010

Hello, 90-degree weather! My family can't wait for this summery weekend to start. 

There are so many family-friendly things to do this weekend, it was really tough to pick just five things. So I decided to go for top ten things to do with kids instead.

Lucky for you, five out of the ten things listed are free!

1. FREE - KidFest - Silver Spring, MD
Sunday, May 2: 12 pm - 4 pm

A fun family event that includes games, activities, face painting, finger painting, live entertainment and clowns. Free admissions.

KidFest will be held at East County Community Center, located at 3310 Gateshead Manor Way in Silver Spring, Maryland (map it).

2. FREE - Celebrate Mama - Bethesda, MD
Saturday, May 1: 11 am - 4 pm

Check out great kid-friendly products and services at this street festival. Exhibiting vendors at Celebrate Mama will include Washington Family Magazine, My Gym of Potomac, Stroller Strides, Love Life Images, Certifikid and more. Free admissions, and the first 300 attendees get free goody bags!

Celebrate Mama will be held on Woodmont Ave, between Bethesda Ave and Elm St, in Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

3. FREE - Glen Echo Family Day Festival - Glen Echo, MD
Saturday, May 1: 11 am - 4 pm

Join the fun at Glen Echo Family Day Festival. Free activities include magic shows, face painting, t-ball extreme and more. This day is also the opening day for the carousel at the park. Free admissions, carousel ride is $1.25.

This festival will be held at Glen Echo Park, located at 7300 MacArthur Boulevard in Glen Echo, Maryland (map it).

4. The Laurie Berkner Band Birthday Party Concert - Baltimore, MD
Saturday, May 1: 2 pm - 3:25 pm

Bring your party hat! Sing along and dance to your favorite tunes with Laurie, Susie, Adam and Bob. Tickets start from $20 (lawn seats) to $50. Free for your kid if he/she sits on your lap. Get your tickets online.

The Laurie Berkner Band will be performing at Pier Six Pavilion, 731 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, Maryland (map it).

5. Science You Can Sing To Concert - Vienna, VA
Saturday, May 1: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Get ready to mix science and fun at Science You Can Sing To live concert, featuring songs from Swamp Stomp Boogie. USA Today rated Swamp Stomp Boogie as "well-produced and the songwriting is fun and quirky." Curiosity Zone will also have fun hands-on experiment labs at the concert. Tickets are $10 per person for anyone 12 months and older. Get your tickets online.

Science You Can Sing To will be held at Jammin' Java, located at 227 Maple Ave E in Vienna, Virginia (map it).

6. Dan Zanes and Friends - Bethesda, MD
Sunday, May 2: 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm

Join Grammy-award winners Dan Zanes and Friends as they perform spirited family songs at this special concert, featuring the WPAS Children of the Gospel Choir. Dan Zanes has been dubbed by People Magazine as the Crown Prince of contemporary kids music. Tickets are from $15 to $32. Get your tickets online.

Dan Zanes and Friends will be performing at Music Center at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, Maryland (map it).

7. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens - Vienna, VA
Friday, April 30 - Sunday, May 2: 10 am - 7:30 pm

Take a stroll at this beautiful park in Vienna, Virginia. Say hello to the birds and butterflies as you enjoy the many trees and flowers at the gardens, such as cherry trees, irises, peonis and native wildflowers. It also features walking trails, lakes and gazebos. Admissions are $5 for adults, $2.50 for seniors (55+), $2.50 for kids ages 7 to 17 and free for kids under 7.

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens are located at 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court in Vienna, Virginia (map it).

8. Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens - Mount Vernon, VA
Friday, April 30 - Sunday, May 2: 8 am - 5 pm

So many things to do at Mount Vernon! Take a walk in one (or all) of the four gardens, tour the Mansion han other buildings, and check out a four-acre working farm. Come on Friday, April 30th, and enjoy wagon rides for free from 10 am to 2 pm. You can find the wagon rides at the Pioneer Farmer site, a five-minute walk from the mansion.

National Treasure tours are also open daily at 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1 pm and 3 pm. This walking tour is an hour long, where you get to see the behind-the-scene areas of "National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets" movie.  

Admission tickets are $15 for adults, $14 for seniors (62+), $7 for kids ages 6 - 11 and free for kids under 6. Wagon rides on Friday are included in admissions. National Treasure Tours are $5 in addition to admission fees. Get your tickets online.

George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens are located at 200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia (map it).

9. FREE - Messy Art at At Play Cafe - Reston, VA
Friday, April 30: 4:30 pm
Saturday, May 1: 11 am

No need to clean up after messy painting at your house! Take your kids to At Play Cafe, an always-open play are for preschoolers, where they get to unleash their creativity with a fun art project. Free art supplies and admissions. Call 703-391-6131 for more information.

At Play Cafe is located at 2254B Hunters Woods Plaza in Reston, Virginia (map it).

10. FREE - Kidwell Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park - Herndon, VA
Friday, April 30 - Sunday, May 1: 9 am - 5 pm

Say hello to little piglets, lambs, calves and other baby animals at this fun farm. Other animals include turkeys, ducks, a peacock, horses, cows, sheep, goats, chickens and rabbits. Visit Kidwell Farm at 4 pm to see a cow milking demonstration in the barn - your kid may get a chance to milk the cow, too. After taking a walk around the farm, head over to the playground area, where they have two separate play sets - one for toddlers and another for big kids.

Kidwell Farm is located 2709 West Ox Road in Herndon, Virginia (map it).