With a majority of students attending school virtually this Fall, many parents are looking for fun, educational and COVID-19 safe day trips to enjoy with their children. We have compiled 7 activities that range from venturing underground, walking in the shoes of a Union Army soldier and getting inspired by nature’s beauty.
Luray Caverns, VA
Driving Time from Metro D.C. - 1 hour 45 min
Image courtesy of Luray Caverns
With names like Dream Lake and Double Column, your kids will be fascinated to see what Luray Caverns has to offer and don’t worry, they won't be disappointed. The tour is friendly for all ages and even includes a stroller-friendly path.
Natural Bridge, VA
Driving Time from Metro D.C. - 3 hours
Image courtesy of Visit Shenendoh
No need to worry about crowds when visiting Virginia’s only drive-thru zoo. This 180-acre park is home to more than 1000 exotic animals from six different continents. There are multiple state parks and other fun activities to explore in Natural Bridge as well.
Stafford, VA
Driving Time from Metro D.C. - 45 min.
Image courtesy of Tour Stafford VA
Take the ultimate history lesson by taking a walk in the shoes of a Union Army soldier at the Stafford Civil War Park. This 41-acre park tells the story of the largest encampment of Union soldiers (135,000) anywhere during the scope of the Civil War. Historians consider it the Union’s “Valley Forge,” which marked a turning point before the upcoming Battle of Gettysburg.
Norfolk, VA
Driving Time from Metro D.C - 2 hours 45 min.
Image courtesy of Norfolk Botanical Garden
The garden is a 175-acre classroom! It has several award winning collections including Roses, Camellias, Crapemyrtles, Hostas, Hydrangeas and more. This is a great place to have your child work on their art or photography skills.
Alexandria, VA
Driving Time from Metro D.C - 15 min.
Photo courtesy of Visit Alexandria
Labeled as one of the largest and most successful visual-arts centers in the country, the Torpedo Factory has 84 working studios and six galleries. At one time, the building really was a torpedo factory, but has been renovated, and is visited by over 800,000 people each year. During your visit, you can meet some of the artists and watch them work. You can view different media being used: pottery, stained glass, photography, printmaking and more.
Williamsburg, VA
Driving Time from Metro D.C - 2 hours
Photo courtesy of Visit Williamsburg
Williamsburg is the world’s largest living history museum, boasting over forty sites and trades, four historic taverns, and two world-class art museums. There are events going on all year round and offers fun for all ages.
Chantilly, VA
Driving Time from Metro D.C - 30 min.
Photo courtesy of Google
This is the companion site to the National Air and Space Museum and has recently reopened.
The center is a great substitute to visit without having to go into D.C. It features the space shuttle Enterprise, and over 80 aircraft, including the Enola Gay and a stealth fighter, among other things.
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