Free & Cheap in DC

This isn’t a complete list, but a place to start, based off of my personal experiences and that of one of my amazing fellow deal-hunting mommies. I’ve also included the recommendation of my go-to 100% love love love, totally addicted blog, Kid-Friendly DC. It is heavy on the actual DC locales, but it includes destinations in the surrounding areas.  Many of the places on here I’ve visited and you can find my reviews of them under the DC/NoVA adventures tab.

Thanks for stopping by

and PS: if you have something you think should be on the list please let me know!

Library programs & summer reading programs

Fairfax County Libraries hosts a myriad of programs for all ages & hosts a summer reading program for all ages, even when children can’t read.  The coupon book awarded usually has lots of great coupons for area activities, treats & play places.

Barnes & Noble, Chuck E Cheese, Scholastic & TD Bank all have free summer reading programs with prize incentives.

Metro

Kids age 5 and under ride free

Movies – all shows rated G or PG, morning showtimes

Cinemark has a $1/ticket (Centreville, Fairfax Corner) Summer Movie Clubhouse

Regal has a $1/ticket Summer Movie Express

* Get there early to get tickets & seats!

Other movie options

Dealflicks is another website for finding movie ticket/snack bundle deals.

National Harbor Movies on Sunday Nights

Starlight Cinema (August) in Centreville

Mosaic District Fun

Movies on the Square in Rockville

Monuments & Museums in D.C.

Always free, always educational

Music

concerts at libraries & through the area – check your county’s website or go to one on the National Mall

Pentagon Row, Rockville, US Air Force Band on the Capitol Steps, Burke Lake, Lake Accotink, Yards Park and National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden,

Parks / Playgrounds / Spraygrounds / Pools

NOVA Outdoors

Fairfax County Parks Authority

Other Things To Do For Free

River Farm in Alexandria

Fort Washington – Maryland

Bull Run – Manassas National Battlefield

National Cathedral with Kids

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

Discovery Theater in DC – $10 and under

Twilight Tattoo at Fort Myer

Backyard Theater for Children (Strathmore) $8 and under

Suggested Websites:

Fairfax Family Fun

Our Kids

Certifikid

Groupon

Living Social

KidFriendly DC