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Family-Friendly Things to Do in Alexandria with Kids

From hands-on museums to scenic parks, Alexandria, VA offers a wide range of family-friendly activities perfect for a day out with the kids. Whether you're looking for weekend plans or something fun to do during school breaks, there’s no shortage of exciting options. Explore these top things to do in Alexandria with kids to create unforgettable memories together.

Explore Museums and Educational Attractions

Alexandria is home to engaging museums that blend education and fun, making them ideal for curious young minds. Many offer interactive exhibits and programs tailored to children.

  • Children's Science Center Lab: Located nearby in Fairfax, this hands-on science center encourages kids to explore STEM topics through experiments and exhibits.
  • Torpedo Factory Art Center: While not a traditional children’s museum, families can watch artists at work and participate in occasional kid-friendly workshops.
  • Freedom House Museum: Older children and teens can learn important history at this small but powerful museum focused on Alexandria’s role in the slave trade.

Enjoy Outdoor Parks and Play Areas

When the weather is nice, pack a picnic and head outside. Alexandria’s abundance of parks and green spaces means families can enjoy the outdoors without venturing far.

  • Cameron Run Regional Park: Known for its splash pad and water park in summer, this spot also has a mini-golf course and batting cages for year-round fun.
  • Jones Point Park: Nestled along the Potomac River, this park features trails, playgrounds, and historical markers that add a learning twist to your visit.
  • Four Mile Run Park: A hidden gem with wide-open space, recreation areas, and a farmer’s market on select weekends.

Indoor Activities Perfect for All Weather

If the weather isn’t ideal, there are still plenty of family things to do in Alexandria today. Indoor play spaces and leisure centers offer engaging experiences to keep everyone entertained.

  • Scramble Indoor Play: A favorite for young children, this clean and modern play space offers climbing structures, learning zones, and a café for parents.
  • Chinquapin Recreation Center: Offers a pool and toddler-friendly swim times, plus fitness programs the whole family can enjoy.
  • Local libraries: Many branches host storytimes, craft sessions, and reading programs for various age groups.

Discover Tours and Local Attractions

For adventurous families, guided tours and local attractions provide a deeper look into Alexandria’s history and culture.

  • Old Town Walking Tours: These educational walks are a great way to introduce kids to historic landmarks and fun facts about Alexandria's past.
  • Mount Vernon Estate: Just outside the city, a visit to George Washington’s home offers gardens, animal barns, and engaging activities for children.
  • Potomac Riverboat Cruises: Seasonal ferry rides and cruises can add an exciting twist to your family day out.

Whether you're planning an afternoon adventure or full-day itinerary, there’s no shortage of family activities in Alexandria. From immersive learning experiences to outdoor fun, these family things to do in Alexandria today make it easy to keep kids engaged and entertained.

What others are saying

Jo
2, Sep
One Regular Size Drink
The theater and popcorn are the best
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Crystal
6, Sep
Two Hours in Active Entertainment Center with Socks for Two People
Let's me first start with the staff. Very friendly, knowledgeable, & courteous. The whole place was more than welcoming. They treated kids and adults with the utmost respect even when a little one was not respectful. My granddaughters like everything from the climbing to arcade. We will be back for more fun
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Sabrina
7, Sep
$36 for 2 people to bowl 2 hours + includes free shoe rental
One of the staff members was really disrespectful as I was using my voucher but afterwards when we finally got our lane our server wasn’t as helpful as I would expect it was like she was having a bad day or something but the guy who brought us our food he made our experience better then it was when we first arrived! He went out and above to make sure we had a good time and got everything we had ordered he was really helpful & had great customer service unlike some of his employees!
Lucky Strike: Up to 73% Off Bowling + Included Shoe Rentals
Cate
4, Sep
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Fun course with food and views! Easy check-in and they limit course load so you can move through easily. Holes are interesting enough (it's not beach golf!) and it was a relaxing place in Tysons to hang out. Parking across the street was free for 2 hours, which was perfect for one round and a round of drinks afterwards!
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