Five Fun Day Trips (Northern VA)

Getting tired of repeating the same activities all summer long? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with a list of five fun day trips in NOVA (Northern Virginia) for you to consider adding to your calendar.

1. Great Falls Park and the Potomac Heritage Trail

Chase waterfalls, hike along beautiful Mather Gorge, and play on land once surveyed by George Washington at Great Falls Park, part of the US National Park system. The Potomac Heritage Trail follows the banks of the river, linking several parks with nice hiking, including Scotts Run, Difficult Run, Riverbend Park, and Seneca Park.

*Note: there is a $10 entrance fee that must be paid prior to entering the park. For more info, click here!

2. Smithsonian Air and Space Center

For aviation lovers, the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum is a must. Continue to explore the history of air and space travel at the Smithsonian’s Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia. The museum houses highlights of the Smithsonian collection too large for the DC location, including a Space Shuttle, Concorde, Blackhawk, and other stars of aviation.

*Note: Admission to the museum is FREE; however, there is a $15 parking fee applicable to each vehicle. For more info, click here!

3. Harpers Ferry

A visit to this quaint, historic community, at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, is like stepping into the past.  Stroll the picturesque streets, visit exhibits and museums, or hike the trails and battlefields. We recommend water shoes and swimsuits because there are several safe points on the river where children (accompanied by their parents) can enter the water for a refreshing swim. Also, it’s a great idea to pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic at one of the towns many picnic tables / open spaces.

4. Clemyjontri Park

Clemyjontri Park features a unique playground where children of all abilities can play side-by-side. It is a playground where every child is welcome. This park is a place where children who use wheelchairs, walkers or braces, or who have sensory or developmental disabilities, can have a parallel playground experience of fun and exploration. For more information, click here!

5. Great Country Farms

At Great Country Farms, you’ll find much more than pick your own fields and the Farmer Market. Whether you’re young, old, or just not tellin’, there’s something for the kid in all of us, including: rides on the cow train, giant mazes, a pumpkin jumping pillow, goats, a fishing pond, and much, much more! For more info, click here!