Virginia is for Lovers is one of the most iconic advertising slogans in the world. We want to add to this because, as you’ll soon discover, Virginia is the perfect place for those who love summer, too. Our team at the Gardner School, with locations in Ashburn, Herndon, and Manassas, has curated a summer bucket list perfect for families with preschool-aged children. We hope you enjoy these nine local attractions as much as we do!
Herndon Community Center, Herndon
The Herndon Community Center and Herndon Parks and Recreation Department offer a myriad of summer activities to choose from. Children aged three and up are eligible for swim lessons, while older siblings can choose from performing arts, arts and crafts, tennis classes, and more. Families will enjoy Herndon’s many large summer events, like the Herndon Festival in June, the July 4th Celebration, and Farmers’ Market Fun Days—which all boast free admission!
Farmers Market, Manassas
Early risers are always welcome at Farmers Market Saturdays! Rise and shine to arrive for the 8:00 a.m. start time. Good weather days bring live music to entertain shoppers and foodies alike. Stroll through over 100 vendors as you introduce your preschooler to fresh produce, flowers, and special goodies. Or, head straight for your child’s favorite fruit to try a locally grown version!
Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon
At Frying Pan Farm Park, families can experience life on a rural community farm during the 1920s through the 1950s. Preschoolers will enjoy seeing horses, pigs, chickens, goats, turkeys, ducks, peacocks, and other animals common to farm life in the early 1900s. Take a ride on a 1920s carousel, enjoy a hayride, slide and climb on the playground, and even watch a cow-milking exhibition! Except for special events, admission is always free.
Magic Putting Place, Manassas
This miniature golf course in Herndon is magical. At the Magic Putting Place, families will enjoy courses that feature fountain ponds, a sawmill, and even a magic castle! There are two 18-hole courses complete with shade and beautiful flowering landscapes. After putting, stop by the 19th Hole Snack Bar for drinks, chips, and other tasty treats.
NOVA Wild, Vienna
Let your preschooler express their wild side at Northern Virginia’s only zoological park. Formerly known as the Reston Zoo, NOVA Wild is a revitalized local treasure. Children can learn about different animal species from around the world through fun and interactive opportunities. For a truly hands-on experience, book a personal encounter with the capybaras or kangaroos.
United States Botanic Garden, Washington, D.C.
Explore the Children’s Garden within the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory. Preschoolers can get their hands dirty—quite literally—in an outdoor space designed with them in mind. Here, they are invited to see what’s in bloom, touch and smell the plants, and water and dig with child-sized tools. Before you go, print out a plant passport to help you learn more about plant biology, including the parts we can eat! Admission is always free.
Volcano Islands Water Park, Sterling
Located approximately 20 minutes from Ashburn and Herndon, The Volcano Island Water Park is a cool place to spend a hot summer day. The park’s centerpiece is a huge water play structure with fountains, squirters, and a giant 500-gallon dumping bucket. Preschool-aged children will enjoy this shallow area and its smaller slide. The splash pad offers water cannons, sprinklers, and more. Adults are welcome to join in the fun, too!
Washington Nationals Baseball Game, Washington, D.C.
There’s no better place to enjoy America’s favorite pastime than in America’s capitol city. Take the family out to the ballgame and attend the Washington Nationals baseball game. This major league team, which calls National Park home, boasts a Jr. Nats Kids Club for children ages 4-12. When your preschooler gets the wiggles, visit the on-site park to climb, slide, and run the bases on a miniature field.
The Zone USA, Ashburn
Experience fun for the whole family and go bowling at The Zone USA. Parents love the affordable prices and delicious food, while children will enjoy the novelty of a black-light lane during cosmic bowling. Lean into the experience and have your preschooler wear white or neon colors to “glow” in the dark!
The Gardner School Supports Family Exploration
Any day can be a great day to learn something new, and summer marks the perfect time for having new adventures with your family. The Gardner School brings daily exploration to each child we teach. Contact us to learn more about our unique learning atmosphere and schedule a tour of one of our Northern Virginia locations.
