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Playdate NoVA 🌻 Getting your family plans ready…

Little adventures.
Close to home.

Find somewhere the kids can play this weekend.

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Ages 0 to 10, always

Everything we list is for kids ages 0 to 10.

Free or low cost

We highlight free and budget friendly picks.

Curated by real NoVA parents

Local notes on drive time, bathrooms, parking, and age fit.

Rainy day ready

Find indoor fun when the weather does not cooperate.

Save good ideas

Keep favorite places and events ready for later.

Kid friendly places in Fairfax County

Fairfax County is where Playdate NoVA has the deepest mix of indoor play, destination parks, library programs, farms, arcades, and birthday venues.

  • Me Land Chantilly, Me Land, Chantilly, VA. Large indoor playground in Chantilly with slides, climbing, toddler play zones, and parent seating. $12.99 to $19.99, stroller friendly Official source
  • Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA. A paid 95-acre botanical garden walk with paved paths, lakes, seasonal plants, Visitor Center restrooms, and two free first-come wheelchairs. Outdoor toys, outside food, and pets are not allowed inside the fenced garden. $5 to $9, stroller friendly Official source
  • Clemyjontri Park, Clemyjontri Park, McLean, VA. Large accessible playground with wide paths, year round restrooms, and a strong mixed-age setup. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Frying Pan Farm Park, Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA. Free farm park outing with animals, paths, and easy parking; paid only for select programs or rides. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Our Special Harbor and Chessie's Big Backyard, Franconia Park, Alexandria, VA. Start at the free accessible spray park, then walk over to Chessie's Big Backyard for dry playground time before getting back in the car. The map documents a permanent year round restroom, and picnic tables are available under two pavilions. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Workhouse Arts Center, Workhouse Arts Center, Lorton, VA. A free historic art-campus visit with galleries, artist studios, public restrooms, accessible single-level buildings, and generally free parking. A hands-on child class is not a standing daily activity and needs its own current program listing. Free general admission, stroller friendly Official source
  • Super, Awesome & Amazing, The St. James, Springfield, VA. A large active destination with separate tickets for the Active Entertainment Center, weekend indoor waterpark, Sunday Tot Time, and arcade. Choose the attraction before paying. $18 to $30 Official source
  • Scramble Falls Church, Scramble Falls Church, Falls Church, VA. Indoor playground with separate infant, toddler, kid, and big kid areas, plus climbing, parent seating, and an onsite cafe. $5 to $27, stroller friendly Official source
  • Jolly Yolly Kids, Jolly Yolly Kids, Fairfax, VA. Bright indoor gym and play space with age level equipment, daily cleaning notes, and birthday party options. $11.95 to $18.95, stroller friendly Official source
  • Play Street Museum Fairfax, Play Street Museum Fairfax, Fairfax, VA. Small-format children's museum with pretend-play exhibits, reservation sessions, and birthday party options. $18 Official source
  • Romp n' Roll Fairfax, Romp n' Roll Fairfax, Fairfax, VA. Classes and Open Playtime for children from 3 months through 5 years, with parent participation based on the child's age and the selected class. Memberships from $129 monthly Official source
  • City of Fairfax Regional Library with Kids, City of Fairfax Regional Library, Fairfax, VA. A free indoor backup with children's books, multilingual collections, internet stations, and a covered 199-space garage. Storytimes and other programs appear as dated events with their own age, time, registration, and room limits. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Van Dyck Park, Van Dyck Park, Fairfax, VA. A free 36 acre City of Fairfax park with a playground, paved trail, basketball, pickleball, tennis, volleyball, a skate park, gardens, picnic tables, benches, pavilions, a Throne restroom, and onsite parking. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Reston Farmers Market, Lake Anne Plaza, Reston, VA. A Saturday food shopping stop at Lake Anne Plaza. Musicians and community groups can appear, but a child activity is not guaranteed. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Burke Farmers Market, VRE parking lot, Burke, VA. A practical Saturday grocery stop with rotating food vendors. The official page does not promise a weekly child activity. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Lorton Farmers Market, VRE parking lot, Lorton, VA. A Sunday food shopping stop with rotating vendors. The official page does not promise a weekly child activity. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Dave & Buster's Fairfax, Dave & Buster's, Fairfax, VA. An older-kid arcade and restaurant option inside Fair Oaks Mall. Set the Power Card amount before arrival, and ask for a current birthday quote because package prices vary. Power Card amount varies Official source
  • Monster Mini Golf Chantilly, Monster Mini Golf, Chantilly, VA. Glow mini golf, arcade games, laser tag, and mini bowling for older kids who need an indoor activity. $12 to $33 Official source
  • Fun Land of Fairfax, Fun Land of Fairfax, Centreville, VA. An indoor older-kid outing with arcade games, go-karts, laser tag, a ropes course, and climbing. Check height rules before promising a specific attraction. $10 attractions · $43.99 online day pass Official source
  • Escapology Fairfax, Escapology Fairfax Corner, Fairfax, VA. A private 60-minute escape-room outing for puzzle-loving older kids. Kids Mode is designed for ages 7 to 14, and families should allow about 90 minutes for arrival, the game, and the wrap-up. Price varies by room, group, and time Official source
  • Muse Paintbar Fairfax, Muse Paintbar Mosaic District, Fairfax, VA. A guided painting studio in Mosaic District with public kids and family sessions plus private birthday packages. Check the exact class age and start time before booking. Public classes vary · Kids parties from $50 per painter Official source
  • Kidcreate Studio Fairfax Station, Kidcreate Studio Fairfax Station, Fairfax Station, VA. A hands-on art studio with classes, workshops, camps, and private parties. The official program ages vary, so choose the exact offering for the youngest child and register before driving over. Paid classes · Free trial available Official source
  • TCG Village, TCG Village, Chantilly, VA. Pokemon focused trading card shop with events, trades, collectibles, and older kid hobby browsing. Paid products and events Official source
  • Burke Lake Park, Burke Lake Park, Fairfax Station, VA. Large destination park with playgrounds, seasonal rides, a lake trail, and 100 wooded campsites for tents or small RVs. Free park entry, stroller friendly Official source
  • Lake Fairfax Park, Lake Fairfax Park, Reston, VA. Free playground, trails, and picnic areas with tent and RV camping, plus the paid Water Mine in summer. Free park entry, stroller friendly Official source
  • Bull Run Regional Park Camping, Bull Run Regional Park, Centreville, VA. Family camping with electric, water, or full hookup sites plus rustic cabins. Choose the hookup before comparing price; Atlantis Waterpark requires separate admission. $34+ campsites · $90+ cabins Official source
  • Pohick Bay Regional Park Camping, Pohick Bay Regional Park, Lorton, VA. Shaded tent, electric, water, and full-hookup camping with trails and selected camper programs. Pirate's Cove, boating, and mini golf cost extra. $37+ campsites · cabins extra Official source
  • Cox Farms Fall Festival, Cox Farms, Centreville, VA. A daytime fall farm outing with animals, hayrides, giant slides, rope swings, straw tunnels, and a fenced play area for younger children. $15 to $30 Official source
  • Mason District Park, Mason District Park, Annandale, VA. A free Annandale park with a playground, tot lot, permanent restroom, fields, natural area, hiking trail, tennis courts, and summer children's entertainment. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole, Lake Fairfax Park, Reston, VA. Full family water park with toddler areas, a lazy river, larger slides, an interactive water playground, and enough variety for siblings at different ages. $14.25 to $22, stroller friendly Official source
  • Frying Pan Farm Park Birthday Packages, Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA. Outdoor farm party with a shelter tent, games, and staff activities for up to 25 total guests. Families provide food, setup, and cleanup. $300 to $400, stroller friendly Official source
  • Launch Herndon Birthday Parties, Launch Herndon, Herndon, VA. Indoor party packages for 10 guests. The action packages include a private room, pizza, drinks, a host, and place settings; the lower priced laser tag package uses reserved tables. Grip socks and added guest prices vary by package. From $394 Official source
  • Water Mine FUNbrella Party Rentals, The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole, Reston, VA. Shaded water park party rental with five picnic tables for 10 to 25 people. Every guest also needs a Water Mine admission ticket. From $110 plus admission, stroller friendly Official source
  • Clemyjontri Shelter and Canopy Rentals, Clemyjontri Park, McLean, VA. Accessible playground party with a reserved canopy or shelter, picnic tables, year round restrooms, and free playground admission. Grills and inflatables are not allowed. From $110, stroller friendly Official source
  • Play Street Museum Fairfax Parties, Play Street Museum Fairfax, Fairfax, VA. Pretend play party with semi private and private choices. Private parties include up to 20 children and staff handles the final cleanup. From $350 Official source
  • Me Land Chantilly Birthday Parties, Me Land Chantilly, Chantilly, VA. Shared playground time followed by a private room with pizza, drinks, supplies, a host, setup, and cleanup. Extra child fees apply. From $319, stroller friendly Official source
  • Scramble Falls Church Birthday Parties, Scramble Falls Church, Falls Church, VA. Indoor play party with food, a coordinator, and favors. The room package is private, while the table package uses reserved seating. From $450, stroller friendly Official source
  • Monster Mini Golf Chantilly Birthday Parties, Monster Mini Golf Chantilly, Chantilly, VA. Glow mini golf and arcade packages include a private room, setup, service, and cleanup. Standard parties use a 90 minute room. The weekend VIM package runs two hours for 25 guests. Food and extra attractions cost more. From $275 Official source
  • Kidcreate Studio Fairfax Station Birthday Parties, Kidcreate Studio Fairfax Station, Fairfax Station, VA. Private in-studio art party with a dedicated party leader and art instructor, private studio use, a chosen project, all materials, setup, and cleanup. Every guest takes home the finished project. The official page does not publish a package price. Custom quote, stroller friendly Official source
  • Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, Fairfax, VA. A City of Fairfax event and rental venue with three flexible rooms, bathrooms, parking, and Van Dyck Park next door. Use it for a scheduled class, public event, or reserved private party, not as open play. Program or rental price varies Official source
  • Playdate Cafe, Thomas Jefferson Library, Falls Church, VA. Playdate cafe is our regular weekly time for kids and adults to enjoy free-play and socialize in an informal setting - blocks, cars, puppets, music... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • My Gym, Burke Centre Library, Burke, VA. Develop your child's large motor skills with physical exercise and games. Age 1-3 years with adult. NEW! Tickets for both the 10:30AM and 11:15AM s... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Playdate Cafe, Martha Washington Library, Alexandria, VA. Come and chat with other parents while the kids play together. If you have questions about the appropriate age for a program, its content, or ac... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Playdate Cafe (ages 0-6), Great Falls Library, Great Falls, VA. Enjoy free-play and socializing in a casual setting. Light refreshments provided. Ages 0 - 6 with adult. Registration encouraged, but not required.... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, Reston Regional Library, Reston, VA. Enjoy books, songs, rhymes and movement activities while building language and pre-literacy skills. Ages 3-5 with adult. Registration preferred but... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Sensory-Friendly Storytime with ITC, City of Fairfax Regional Library, Fairfax, VA. A welcoming space! Our friends from the Infant and Toddler Connection will join us for a Sensory-friendly Storytime full of books, songs, and rhyme... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • My Gym: Siblings, Burke Centre Library, Burke, VA. Develop your child's large motor skills with physical exercise and games. Age 1-5 years with adult. NEW! Tickets for both the 10:30AM and 11:15AM s... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Frying Pan Farm at Chantilly Library, Chantilly Regional Library, Chantilly, VA. Frying Pan Farm Park is coming to you! Meet an animal friend, make a craft, and learn more about our farm's history & residents. For students in gr... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Kids Writing Club, Great Falls Library, Great Falls, VA. Are you an aspiring author? Meet a local author! Learn how to get a creative writing project started in an encouraging environment. Ages 8 - 12 yea... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Paws 2 Read 2 - Willey, John Marshall Library, Alexandria, VA. "If you love dogs and want to enjoy some reading time, bring your favorite book or pick one from the library and read it aloud to Willey. Reading s... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • STEAM Team - American Spirit and Invention - Morse Code, Burke Centre Library, Burke, VA. Come celebrate American Spirit: Innovation and Invention. We will learn about great American inventors, like Samuel Morse, the inventor of Morse co... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Saturday Morning Storytime, City of Fairfax Regional Library, Fairfax, VA. Storytime for all ages! Read, sing, learn and have fun at the library. This program is designed for kids ages birth to 5. Space is limited to 25 ch... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Saturday Stories, Richard Byrd Library, Springfield, VA. Join us in the children's area for a storytime designed for families with children ages birth to five. No registration required. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Paws 2 Read 2 -Willey, John Marshall Library, Alexandria, VA. "If you love dogs and want to enjoy some reading time, bring your favorite book or pick one from the library and read it aloud to Willey. Reading s... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Early Pages - Get Ready to Read!, City of Fairfax Regional Library, Fairfax, VA. Stay after Saturday Family Storytime or join us at 11am to play and learn your letters! This get-ready-to-read open house will inspire your little... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Paws 2 Read 2 - Willey, John Marshall Library, Alexandria, VA. "If you love dogs and want to enjoy some reading time, bring your favorite book or pick one from the library and read it aloud to Willey. Reading s... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Storytime Yoga at Herndon Library, Herndon Fortnightly Library, Herndon, VA. Kids and parents share together in a fun-filled story and yoga adventure using your body and mind to find new poses and calming activities. Plea... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Paws 2 Read 2 - Willey, John Marshall Library, Alexandria, VA. "If you love dogs and want to enjoy some reading time, bring your favorite book or pick one from the library and read it aloud to Willey. Reading s... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Frida's Flower Crowns: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Chantilly Regional Library, Chantilly, VA. Join us to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a colorful flower crown inspired by the artist Frida Kahlo! Create your own beautiful DIY flower... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Paws to Read with Lucy, Thomas Jefferson Library, Falls Church, VA. Read aloud to Lucy, a trained therapy dog. Bring your own book or choose a book from the library. Walk-ins welcome. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Robotics with RISE!, Herndon Fortnightly Library, Herndon, VA. Learn about building robots with students from the award-winning RISE Foundation with Capitol Robotics. For Ages 8-12 with adult. No younger siblin... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Youth Yarn Craft Club, Pohick Regional Library, Burke, VA. Create & connect for ages 7-12! Unstructured crafting time to meet friends who enjoy yarn crafting. Bring what you are currently working on! New to... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Halloween Fun Scavenger Hunt, Herndon Fortnightly Library, Herndon, VA. Stop by the information desk for a Halloween Themed Scavenger Hunt! Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Steps, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA. Are you looking for ways to help your new baby learn, grow, and socialize? Then come join us for early literacy activities, sing alongs, and rhymes... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Bouncing Babies, Pohick Regional Library, Burke, VA. Songs, rhymes, stories and activities for baby and you. Birth-11 months with adult. Limit 12 babies with parent on a first come, first serve bas... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Little Bookworms, City of Fairfax Regional Library, Fairfax, VA. Enjoy a PJ Library story time. Each month you will learn about a Jewish holiday or value, do some crafts and have a good time. Everyone is welcome... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, Lorton Library, Lorton, VA. Storytime for Ages 3-5 years Join us for stories, songs, movement and early literacy fun! Registration Registration required for all Preschool Chil... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, Thomas Jefferson Library, Falls Church, VA. Storytime for preschoolers who love stories! Enjoy hand-picked stories, games, and songs. Get engaged with great books, and practice early literacy... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Cliffhanger Book Club, Martha Washington Library, Alexandria, VA. This read-aloud event invites book club attendees to cast their vote for one of two books presented. The winner will be read aloud to the club, who... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Outside Family Storytime, Martha Washington Library, Alexandria, VA. Join us outside the library for stories and fun. Bring a blanket, chair or yoga mat to sit on. We will meet on the south side of the library. Come... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Early Bird Baby Lapsit Storytime, Great Falls Library, Great Falls, VA. 10:15 - 10:45 am Early Bird Storytime 10:45 - 11:15 am Play Time (for both groups) 11:15 - 11:45 am Late Worm Storytime Bond with your child throug... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby & Me Storytime at Herndon Library, Herndon Fortnightly Library, Herndon, VA. Lapsit for babies in arms with songs, bouncing rhymes, a story and more. Babies will remain in parent's arm during the program. Ages birth to 15... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Family Yoga, Reston Regional Library, Reston, VA. Come and enjoy yoga at Reston Regional Library! Learn about yoga poses and breathing techniques all while listening to stories and songs and playin... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • It's Toddler Time!, Sherwood Regional Library, Alexandria, VA. Start your day with stories, music, and movement designed for toddlers. For ages 18-35 months with parent. Registration is required due to limit... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, Oakton Library, Oakton, VA. Interactive stories, songs, and action rhymes. For ages 3-5 with a parent. No registration or tickets required. Doors close when room capacity i... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Toddler Storytime, Thomas Jefferson Library, Falls Church, VA. Thomas Jefferson Library's ultra-fun storytime for toddlers! Each storytime will feature singing, dancing, rhyming, and storytelling fun. This even... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Toddler Storytime, Lorton Library, Lorton, VA. Storytime for Ages 18-36 months Interactive Storytime with books, songs and movement for toddlers. Registration Registration required for all Toddl... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Toddler Storytime, Burke Centre Library, Burke, VA. Build your child's early literacy skills with stories, songs, and rhymes followed by playtime to develop their social skills. Ages 18-36 months wit... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Toddler Storytime, Centreville Regional Library, Centreville, VA. Enjoy stories, songs, and fingerplays perfect for children ages 2 to 3 years old with adult. No registration. Space is limited. Please arrive early... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Tots and Twos!, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA. Enjoy an early literacy Storytime geared towards toddlers, with stories, songs and fingerplays. Build an early literacy foundation while enjoying t... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Wonderful Ones Storytime, Pohick Regional Library, Burke, VA. Enjoy stories, songs and rhymes with an early literacy foundation geared towards ages 12-24 months. Participation is limited to 15 one-year olds wi... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Late Worm Baby Lapsit Storytime, Great Falls Library, Great Falls, VA. 10:15 - 10:45 am Early Bird Storytime 10:45 - 11:15 am Play Time (for both groups) 11:15 - 11:45 am Late Worm Storytime Bond with your child throug... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Wee Bilingual Korean-English Storytime, Chantilly Regional Library, Chantilly, VA. Join us for songs, fingerplays, dances, and stories in both Korean and English. For families with children ages 2 to 5 years. **Please register eac... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Read to Jackson, Great Falls Library, Great Falls, VA. Read to Jackson the therapy dog! Bring your own book or choose one from the library. Ages 4-12. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Pajama Storytime, Lorton Library, Lorton, VA. Storytime for Ages 0-5 years Join us in the evening for stories, songs, movement to wind down from the day. Feel free to come in your pajamas! Regi... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Lap-Sit Storytime, Chantilly Regional Library, Chantilly, VA. Join Ms. Sailaja for a fun early literacy Baby Lap-Sit Storytime. We will share books, songs and body movement that encourages interaction between... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Lap Sit, Dolley Madison Library, McLean, VA. Join us for rhymes, songs, stories and activities for you and your baby. Build an early literacy foundation while enjoying time together in your la... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Storytime, Centreville Regional Library, Centreville, VA. Join us for Baby Storytime! We will share songs, rhymes, giggles and favorite books while building an early literacy foundation. Diverse representa... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Storytime, Burke Centre Library, Burke, VA. Connect with your baby through songs, lapsit bounces, and stories. Build an early literacy foundation while enjoying time together in your lap, fol... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Fire Safety Storytime, Oakton Library, Oakton, VA. Come to Oakton library and learn about fire prevention and safety month with fun and educational activities. This program is for children ages 3-5,... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, John Marshall Library, Alexandria, VA. Enjoy stories, songs, and rhymes for ages 3-5 years with Adult. Registration encouraged, walk-ins welcome! Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA. Join us for stories, songs, movement and activities to build early literacy skills for preschoolers. This program is designed to give children tool... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, Richard Byrd Library, Springfield, VA. Join us for stories, songs, rhymes, and activities for preschoolers. Have fun together while building early literacy skills and school-readiness. A... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Sensory Connection Storytime at Herndon Library, Herndon Fortnightly Library, Herndon, VA. An interactive and educational program for babies and toddlers in a sensory-friendly environment. Includes interactive stories, songs, sensory play... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Storytime, Martha Washington Library, Alexandria, VA. Pre-school Stories, songs, and fun! Please just register the child/s. Age 18 months - 5 with adult. If you have questions about the appropriate age... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Tales for Twos, Pohick Regional Library, Burke, VA. Enjoy stories, songs and rhymes with an early literacy foundation geared towards two-year olds. Participation is limited to 15 two-year olds with a... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Toddler Storytime, Reston Regional Library, Reston, VA. Join us for Early Literacy story time with stories, songs, and finger plays. Ages 18 months - 2 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Rhyme Time, Reston Regional Library, Reston, VA. Come join Reston Youth Services staff for an afternoon of stories, rhymes, songs, and fun! Ages 0-18 months with an adult. Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Storytime, Sherwood Regional Library, Alexandria, VA. Welcome to our afternoon Baby Storytime for babies with parents! Build community through stories, music, and playtime. For ages 0-18 months with... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Canine Z Activities & Author Visit, Richard Byrd Library, Springfield, VA. Start spooky season with a book about zombie dogs that takes place here in Springfield! Author Linda Peterson will share her book Canine Z with act... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Spectacular Spooky Craft, Chantilly Regional Library, Chantilly, VA. Ready for a creative adventure? Weave a spooktacular craft in time for Halloween. For students in grades 4 to 6. Space is limited. Please only regi... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Green Kids Club: Environmental STEAM, Oakton Library, Oakton, VA. Green Kids Club focuses on spreading the word about environmental issues relating to people and animals through books, storytelling, and hands-on a... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby & Me Storytime, Richard Byrd Library, Springfield, VA. Join us for songs, stories, rhymes, and activities for you and your baby ages birth to 17 months. Build an early literacy foundation while enjoying... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Lapsit Storytime, Thomas Jefferson Library, Falls Church, VA. Bond with your baby through songs, movement, and storytelling! Baby Lapsit Storytime is designed for the youngest learners - bounce along to fun so... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Baby Rhyme Time, Martha Washington Library, Alexandria, VA. This lapsit story and song time is for the youngest patrons and their parents. Age birth - 17 months with adult. Please register children only.... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Bilingual (Spanish-English) Storytime, City of Fairfax Regional Library, Fairfax, VA. Hola amigos! Hi Friends! Do you enjoy singing and dancing to silly songs and listening to stories in Spanish and English? Ages 0 to 5 ¿Te en... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, Centreville Regional Library, Centreville, VA. Enjoy stories, songs, and fingerplays perfect for children ages 3 to 5 years old with adult. No registration. Space is limited. Please arrive 15 mi... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Preschool Storytime, Sherwood Regional Library, Alexandria, VA. Join us for stories, songs, movement, and early literacy fun for preschoolers! For ages 3-5 with parent. Registration is required. Siblings are... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Toddlers & Twos Storytime at Herndon Library, Herndon Fortnightly Library, Herndon, VA. Enjoy an early literacy storytime geared towards toddlers, with stories, songs and fingerplays. Ages 16-36 months with adult. No registration. Spac... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Tots and Tales (ages 18 months - 3 years), Great Falls Library, Great Falls, VA. Enjoy stories, songs and rhymes for the first 30 minutes and then socialize for the last 30 minutes. Ages 18 months - 3 years old with adult. Regis... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Chess Club, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA. Are you a seasoned chess player? Is this your first time playing? No matter your experience level, come play chess with us! Simply drop in, no regi... Free, stroller friendly Official source
  • Family Fun Fridays, Riverbend Park, Great Falls, VA. (All Ages) Come stay and play at our Nature Center on select Fridays of every month. Spend time together as a family reading books, making crafts, playing games, exploring natural objects with a microscope, doing puzzles, digging in the sandbox and many more play opportunities. Enjoy a short presentation or read-aloud story by a naturalist every hour. Each month the space will transform into a different theme and activities will be refreshed so there will always be something new to discover. A s $4.99 Official source
  • Kilimanjaro Climb: Family Quest, McLean Community Center, McLean, VA. Become a STEAM Team during the Family Engagement event, Kilimanjaro Climb on Believe It or Not Island! Families will learn about Mount Kilimanjaro's five unique climate zones and discover how plants, animals and temperatures change with ele Free Official source
  • Super Snakes, Burke Lake Park, Fairfax Station, VA. (5-Adult) Join a naturalist to meet live snakes and learn why snakes are important. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. $9.00 Official source
  • Animal Tea Party, Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA. (4-7 yrs.) Join us for a cozy tea party on the farm. Bring your favorite stuffed animal, help us decorate for the party and read a story. We will enjoy drinks and cookies in a special environmentally friendly tea set and meet one of our animals. Sign up for sessions starting at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. $12.00 Official source
  • Critter Catch, Lake Accotink, Springfield, VA. (2-7 yrs.) Join a naturalist to discover the various wildlife that can be found in the lake. Search for tadpoles, insects, and frogs to catch and release, while also learning about what makes each creature special. Bring old shoes that can get wet and muddy. $12.00 Official source
  • Are You Going to Eat That?, Lake Accotink, Springfield, VA. (10-Adult) Enjoy a naturalist-led hike and identify plants that are safe to eat and which ones to avoid. Participants will learn how plants were used in rope making and folk remedies with connections to Eastern Woodland Indians. Foraging in Fairfax County Parks is prohibited. $9.00 Official source
  • Skeleton Science, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Annandale, VA. (5-11 yrs.) Learn why skeletons aren't scary, but are essential to your everyday life. Make a glow-in-the-dark skeleton craft to take home. Sign up for 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. $10.00 Official source
  • Exploring Exoplanets: Unveiling New Worlds, Observatory Park at Turner Farm, Great Falls, VA. Discover planets orbiting distant stars and learn how scientists find them by watching stars flicker or wobble. Explore what these worlds are made of, whether they could support life and what recent discoveries reveal. The program meets in the Roll-Top Observatory, rain or shine. Ages 8 and older. $13.00 Official source
  • UPDATE: Event is SOLD OUT - Campfire Saturdays - Stargazing, Lake Fairfax, Reston, VA. (3-Adult) Enjoy an evening in the woods and learn about the constellations, their stories and other night-sky features. Our naturalist will identify the stars and will have some telescopes to use. The program concludes with a campfire. S'mores ingredients provided. All participants, including accompanying adults, must register and pay for the program. $12.00 Official source
  • All About Owls Campfire, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Chantilly, VA. (4-Adult) Barred owls inhabit our stream valley parks. Learn to identify these owls from other native owls while enjoying the campfire. Toast marshmallows over the embers. Canceled in case of inclement weather. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $12.00 Official source
  • Movie at the Mill - 'Frankenstein', Colvin Run Mill, Great Falls, VA. (10-Adult) Watch an outdoor screening of "Frankenstein" (1931) at the 19th century gristmill. Bring your own blanket or low lawn chair. Refreshments and concessions will be available for purchase. The Miller's House Exhibit will be open for self-guided tours at 6 p.m. and will close at the start of the film. The film will start at sunset - 7 p.m. $12.00 Official source
  • McLean Artfest, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA. Join us to celebrate the arts in our community! McLean Artfest, formerly MPAartfest, continues its annual tradition, now produced by the McLean Community Center with McLean Project for the Arts as our visual art partner. Located at McLean C Free Official source
  • Fall Festival Scramble (Tee time start), Pinecrest Golf Course, Alexandria, VA. (7 yrs. +) Join us for a fun festive wrap-up event to end your 2026 golf season. Two players will team together to play a 9-hole scramble tournament and compete for prizes in their respective division. Three Divisions: adults 18 and up, adult/junior 7-12 and adult/junior 13-17. Prizes for first, second and third place in all divisions and closest to the pin. Lunch and prizes following tournament. Limited to first 24 teams. Rain date: Oct. 18. Registration opens 45 days prior to event. Registrati $110.00 to Per team, lunch and carts included Official source
  • Foraging for Wild Edibles, Burke Lake Park, Fairfax Station, VA. (9-Adult) With every season there are different blooms, leaves, roots, seeds and mushrooms that you can identify and eat. Learn how to eat from the forest safely and ethically as you join a Naturalist on a walk by the Lake. Please be aware that foraging is prohibited in Fairfax County parks. This class will focus on how to safely identify various edible plants, as well as their uses. No plants will be picked during the course of the class. $20.00 Official source
  • Native Tree Discovery Walk, Colvin Run Mill, Great Falls, VA. (7-Adult) Discover our native trees, how they helped people of the past and how we use them in the modern day. Learn how to use the iNaturalist app to identify things you find along the way. Each walk will feature a different theme and may include different trees, seasonal features like fruit and flowers and a variety of uses. $9.00 Official source
  • Backyard Bird Buffet, Hidden Pond Nature Center, Springfield, VA. (6-Adult) Create a welcoming space for birds and watch who shows up! Learn how feeders, food, and native plants can support local wildlife, then take part in making native seed balls to grow plants that birds love. $12.00 Official source
  • Forgotten Treasure - The American Chestnut, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Chantilly, VA. (6-Adult) Delve into the history of the American Chestnut and learn about efforts to revitalize what was once an iconic North American tree. Enjoy a fire while cooking and sampling chestnuts from an American Chestnut relative. Program is held at the Woodland Stewardship Education Center. All participants, including accompanying adults, must register and pay for the program. $9.00 Official source
  • Leave it to Beavers, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Chantilly, VA. (4-Adult) Look for signs of beavers at the park with a guided tour around their aquatic habitat. Get hands-on with beaver related activities. Investigate the elements of the beaver world and hope to get a glimpse of these elusive aquatic mammals. $9.00 Official source
  • New Astronomy: NextGen Electronic Telescopes, Observatory Park at Turner Farm, Great Falls, VA. Discover how electronically assisted astronomy combines telescopes with sensors and imaging technology to reveal the night sky. Explore examples of this emerging field with Analemma Society volunteers. The program meets in the Roll-Top Observatory, rain or shine. Ages 8 and older. $13.00 Official source
  • Little Hands on the Farm, Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA. (2-3 yrs.) Join us to learn about a different element of farm life each week. Classes held during the same week will cover repeat topics. Other activities can include story time, crafts and small farm chores. One adult must attend with each child. Please limit one parent to attend with each child. $12.00 Official source
  • Open Game Nights at OFC, The Old Firehouse, McLean, VA. Come enjoy table tennis, bridge, mah-jongg, arcade games, a sensory lab and more at the Old Firehouse. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Please Note: Drop-In Games will not be held on Fairfax County Government ho Free Official source
  • From Eye-Rolls To Heart-To-Hearts: Connecting With Your Child & Teen Through Effective Communication, McLean Community Center, McLean, VA. MONTHLY COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CHAT SERIESIn Partnership with the Safe Community Coalition Join us for these free information sessions that are designed specifically for parents and parents to gain professional insights, share experienc Free Official source
  • Farmyard Chatter, Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA. (6-Adult) Animals make a lot of noise, but what are they really saying? Come meet our farm animals, learn how they chat, and record your own sounds to take home. Bringing a mobile phone or other device that can record audio is recommended. All participants, including accompanying adults, must register and pay for the program. $10.00 Official source
  • All About Owls Campfire, Lake Accotink, Springfield, VA. (4-Adult) Barred owls inhabit our stream valley parks. Learn to identify these owls from other native owls while enjoying the campfire. Toast marshmallows over the embers. Canceled in case of inclement weather. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $12.00 Official source
  • OFC Ignite, The Old Firehouse, McLean, VA. McLean 5K Relax and Recover Saturday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring the whole family to OFC Ignite, the newly reimagined monthly family play experience at OFC! Drop in to enjoy ping pong, board games, arcade games, refreshments, the Sensory Free Official source
  • Animal Tea Party, Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA. (4-7 yrs.) Join us for a cozy tea party on the farm. Bring your favorite stuffed animal, help us decorate for the party and read a story. We will enjoy drinks and cookies in a special environmentally friendly tea set and meet one of our animals. Sign up for sessions starting at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. $12.00 Official source
  • Fairfax City Fall Festival, Downtown Fairfax, Fairfax, VA. Free downtown festival with 400+ arts and crafts vendors, children's activities, multiple stages, food, and free open houses. Free admission; children's rides and activities cost extra Official source
  • Fall Wildflowers ID Sketch Hike, Huntley Meadows, Alexandria, VA. (10-Adult) Turtlehead, jewelweed, seed box, cardinal flowers; come see our beautiful fall wetland flowers. Discover how they live and how to draw them. $18.00 Official source
  • Introduction to Astronomy, Observatory Park at Turner Farm, Great Falls, VA. Explore the fundamentals of astronomy, from planets and stars to the objects and phenomena that fill our universe. A classroom discussion is followed by telescope viewing, weather permitting. The program meets in the Roll-Top Observatory, rain or shine. Ages 8 and older. $13.00 Official source
  • Boardwalk Astronomy, Huntley Meadows, Alexandria, VA. (8-Adult) Join a park naturalist as they take you on a tour of constellations, comets and other current events happening in the skies above. Children must be accompanied by adult also registered in the program. $14.00 Official source
  • Nature Charms, Burke Lake Park, Fairfax Station, VA. (9-Adult) Join a naturalist to learn how to preserve nature by creating resin pendants encapsulating small natural specimens. Discover how to responsibly select natural materials, while also learning how to use resin to make your own natural charm. No living wildlife will be affected in the making of the charms. All materials will be provided. $15.00 Official source
  • The Civil War at Sully, Sully Historic Site, Chantilly, VA. (6-Adult) Discover more about the turbulent history and importance of Sully and Fairfax County during the Civil War. Tour the historic site and learn about the different figures who experienced the war at Sully. Hear about Maria Barlow, who encountered and dealt with troops on both sides. Gain a better understanding of the effects the war had on Fairfax County and why it matters today. This program links to the VA250 and the Fairfax250 commemoration. $10.00 Official source
  • Hip Hop Day Dance Camp, McLean Community Center, McLean, VA. Step into the spotlight at our Popstar/Hip Hop Day Dance Camp! Perfect for beginners, this fun-filled camp is designed for kids who love music, movement and performing like stars. Campers will learn basic hip hop and pop choreography while Free Official source
  • Touch a Truck, McLean Community Center, McLean, VA. Monday, Oct. 12 9-10 a.m. (Quiet Hour) 10 a.m.- Noon McLean Community Center Parking Lot Free Admission Join us for the event that gives children of all ages the chance to see, touch, and explore some of their favorite vehicles! Worried abo Free Official source
  • The Strange Shape of Sundials, Observatory Park at Turner Farm, Great Falls, VA. Explore the history and variety of sundials, then make your own paper sundial. The program begins in the Roll-Top Observatory classroom and is followed by telescope viewing of the sun. Instruction is provided by Analemma Society volunteers. Ages 8 and older. $13.00 Official source
  • Making Ice and Ice Cream at Walney, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Chantilly, VA. (4-Adult) Crank ice cream as you discover how ice was harvested and stored in this 19th century farm. Try using ice tongs. All participants, including accompanying adults, must register and pay for the program. $9.00 Official source
  • Youth Knife Skills, McLean Community Center, McLean, VA. Empower your child to help with the cooking by learning real knife skills that will stay with them as long as they cook. Kids will learn special techniques for cutting onions, carrots, peppers and other fruits and vegetables. They will lear Free Official source
  • Open Game Nights at OFC, The Old Firehouse, McLean, VA. Come enjoy table tennis, bridge, mah-jongg, arcade games, a sensory lab and more at the Old Firehouse. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Please Note: Drop-In Games will not be held on Fairfax County Government ho Free Official source
  • Animal Feeding, Hidden Pond Nature Center, Springfield, VA. (3-Adult) It's dinner time at the nature center and worms and insects are on the menu. Help our naturalist care for and feed the nature center's animals. $9.00 Official source
  • Planet Adventure Night, Observatory Park at Turner Farm, Great Falls, VA. Tour the planets and moons visible in the current night sky, then explore through telescopes, weather permitting. No astronomy experience is needed. The program meets in the Roll-Top Observatory, rain or shine. Children must be accompanied by an adult who is also registered. Ages 6 and older. $13.00 Official source
  • Vienna Halloween Parade, Maple Avenue, Vienna, VA. Evening family parade on Maple Avenue with floats and entertainment, held rain or shine. Free public parade; confirm parking and route details Official source
  • Reston Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, Reston Town Center, Reston, VA. Reston Town Center holiday parade and tree lighting with Santa, holiday activities, and festive performances. Free public parade and tree lighting; confirm parking and route details Official source

Indoor play or a no cost outing?

Parents sometimes use free play to mean child led or open play, even when a venue charges admission. Use the Fairfax indoor playground comparison for open play spaces, prices, socks, waivers, and time limits. Use the free Fairfax outings page when the main experience must have no required admission.

Summer camp planning

The 2026 Fairfax summer camp guide compares Park Authority camps, Camp Fairfax, FCPS enrichment, City of Fairfax programs, and therapeutic preschool camp by age, dates, price, registration opening, and care hours.

Museums children can actually use

The Fairfax museum guide compares hands on science, pretend play, aircraft, local history, a working mill, and historic sites by age fit, cost, hours, parking, and visit length.

Mosaic District with kids

The Mosaic District family guide separates the daily playground, seasonal splash pad, current child events, paid art and movie stops, parking rules, food, and bathroom uncertainty.

Old Town Fairfax with kids

The Old Town Fairfax family guide pairs Old Town Square with the nearby library, then explains the splash pad, current events, parking, bathrooms, food, and museum backup.