Written by Autumn Yates, Old Dominion for Young Virginians
Have you ever planned the perfect family outing to a park or hiking trail, only to look out your window and see a surprise thunderstorm rolling in? Sudden weather changes are a very real possibility here in Northern Virginia, so it’s always helpful to have an indoor backup plan that still gets your kids up and moving. For just $10 or less (including some free options), the following indoor play destinations offer fun, engaging ways to keep little ones entertained without breaking the bank.
Libraries
While known for their amazing selection of children’s books, many Northern Virginia library branches also offer free indoor recreation opportunities. For example, the massive Beatley Library in Alexandria has an entire, mural-adorned room designated for interactive play. The smaller Oakton Library offers bins of toys that can be checked out with a library card for in-building use. Don’t be afraid to library hop and see what branches in other towns and counties have to offer!
Nature Centers
Nature Centers are FREE indoor destinations that encourage playful, science-based exploration. In addition to live animal friends, the Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Annandale offers everything from a climbing structure and log tunnel to puzzles, toys, and costumes. The brand new nature center at Hal and Berni Hanson Regional Park in Aldie boasts interactive experiences and exhibits throughout its spacious interior. See how many Northern Virginia nature centers you and your family can find - there are quite a few!
Inflatable Fun
Visits to inflatable obstacle attractions can add up, but it’s still possible to score good deals. Although the standard fee at Sterling’s Monkey Joe’s is $13.99, children three and under are always $8.99, and on Tuesdays children four and under are just $5.00. Pump it Up Alexandria charges a $10.00 fee for all participants, but during Little Tikes Jump Time - when the space is open exclusively for ages 18 months to six years - that fee includes a juice box and snack. Adults are free at both locations.
Drop-in Play
Sometimes a unique drop-in play opportunity is the perfect way to turn a day around. Douglass Community Center in Leesburg offers a Bounce-N-Wiggle Drop-in class for ages 18 months to five years on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings for just $3.00 per child. Play N’ Learn, a playground store in Chantilly, offers two-hour drop-in visits at their large indoor showroom for $10.00 per child (the hours vary, so be sure to call ahead for schedule details and reservations).
A Perfect Pair
If you’re looking for multiple hours of indoor fun, give this engaging duo a try: start off at the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum, whose historic play areas include a general store, a barn, a one-room schoolhouse, and an old-fashioned kitchen. Admission is just $5.00 per adult, $3.00 per child (2-12), and free for children under two. Once your kids have worked up an appetite, head two miles down the road to Ridgetop Coffee & Tea. This café offers a fully enclosed play area that customers can enjoy while waiting for their tasty lunch orders.
Worth the Drive
Enjoy the scenic drive west on Route 7 to Winchester, home of the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum. Three indoor floors and an open-air rooftop are bursting with opportunities for whimsical, educational, and interactive play. Unique exhibits include an apple harvesting station, a bee-themed play area with an active hive, and much more. Tickets cost $9.00 per person for ages two and older, and visitors under age two are free.
Remember to bookmark this blog post to help save your sanity on cold and rainy days. Happy (indoor) exploring!