1. Home
  2. Cities & Towns
  3. Washington, DC

Summer Family Fun - Things to Do with Kids in the Washington, DC Area

Summer Fun in Maryland and Virginia Too!

By Rachel Cooper, About.com Guide

Summer is a great time to give kids a chance to try different activities and learn something new. From outdoor recreation, to community events to visiting historical and cultural attractions, there are endless opportunities for fun in the Washington, DC area. Here are some suggestions of things to do with the whole family this summer.

11. Nature Centers

© Compassionate Eye Foundation
Spring is a great time to explore the outdoors and learn more about our environment. Visit a nature center and attend a naturalist guided event, enjoy hands-on activities examining nature exhibits or take a peaceful walk in the woods.

12. Visit a Zoo

© National Zoo
Visit a variety of animals, whether you spend a day at the National Zoo, or one of the regions smaller animal parks - Leesburg Animal Park, Reston Zoo and the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve.

13. Amusement Parks

© Six Flags
Kids love the rides, the excitement and entertainment at amusement parks. Learn about the theme parks that are closest to Washington, DC in Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania.

14. Arts and Crafts

© Tanya Constantine/Getty Images
Enroll your child in art classes. Shop at a local craft store and stock up on art supplies. Paint pictures in your back yard or have a kids craft party.

15. Miniature Golf

© Stockbyte/Getty Images
Miniature golf is a fun activity for the whole family. Find a variety of places in the Washington, DC area to practice your putting skills.

16. Indoor Play Centers

© Sharon Dominick/Getty Images
When it is hot or rainy outside, let the kids have fun and get some exercise in an air conditioned space. Bring along some friends and enjoy a few hours of indoor fun.

17. Libraries and Bookstores

© SW Productions/Getty Images
Keep your kids reading all summer long. Visit your local library or a book store. Attend story times and enroll in a summer reading program.

Explore Washington, DC

About.com Special Features

On the National Mall in Washington, DC

Take a look at the capital's best sight-seeing spot. More >

Oktoberfest in Phoenix

Find the best places to celebrate and join the festivities. More >

  1. Home
  2. Cities & Towns
  3. Washington, DC
  4. Families & Lifestyles
  5. Children's Activities
  6. Seasonal Family Fun
  7. Summer Family Fun - Things to Do with Kids in the Washington, DC Area>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.