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
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
Fairfax County Parks Authority
Other Things To Do For Free
Bull Run – Manassas National Battlefield
Discovery Theater in DC – $10 and under
Backyard Theater for Children (Strathmore) $8 and under
Suggested Websites: