Family fun is the best kind of fun. When you’re in Prince George’s, there are so many options for that kind of delight. You and your youngest loved ones can explore the woods, puzzle your way out of faux-trouble, go old-school at a drive-in movie, and so much more. The best children’s activities give kids space to explore their world and themselves, and the region delivers those opportunities again and again.

 

Schedule these activities for your favorite pint-sized people:

 

  1. Kids will love exploring the Watkins Nature Center in Kettering. The space frequently hosts family-friendly activities and hikes, and even on days without an event, you can enjoy the permanent displays and access fantastic environmental education. From its Conservation Club for teens to its community campfires to its puppet shows for young learners, the center truly has something for all ages.

 

  1. Catch a film showing at the Drive-In Movies at Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie. Tickets are free, which makes the event extra family-friendly, though pre-registration is required. Gates open at 7 p.m., and the movies begin at dusk. The movies are often appropriate for children, like an October showing of Coco where costumes are encouraged. You’ll also find food trucks, games, and free snacks.

 

  1. Test your family's teamwork skills at Escapology in National Harbor, where you and your crew will have to solve puzzles and uncover clues to find your way out of an escape room. Each room has a different theme, so you can choose the adventure that will excite your kids most. Try the Lost City for archaeology lovers, Scooby-Doo and the Spooky Castle Adventure for fans of the show, or A Pirate’s Curse for seafaring friends.

 

  1. Have the kids harness their creativity at Artfest in College Park. Oblivion Art House runs the ticketed event every second Saturday afternoon, and all ages are welcome to explore their self-expression through art. You can participate in various art activities and showcase your talents. You can join in the creation of community murals, paint your own canvas, listen to music, look at other artists’ work, and much more.

 

  1. Play along the river at National Harbor. Kids will love riding the Spirit Park Carousel, looking out over the marina, playing in the sand at the Potomac River beach, and getting views from the top of The Capital Wheel. Keep an eye on the calendar, because the space often hosts musical performances, outdoor movies, and holiday celebrations.

 

  1. Strap on some skates and get gliding at Herbert W. Wells Ice Rink in College Park. The rink offers open skate four days a week, skate rentals, hockey leagues, figure skating teams, and skating lessons. You can also book private lessons and summer camp sessions. If you’re closer to Fort Washington, try the Tucker Road Ice Rink for many of the same offerings.

 

  1. Children and adults are welcomed with open arms at the Montpelier Arts Center in Laurel. The creative space works to inspire artists of all ages through printmaking, sculpture, painting, ceramics, and more. Kids can take classes in ceramics, comic book art, drawing, animation, and painting. 

 

  1. Play in the water all year long at Rollingcrest-Chillum Splash Pad. You’ll find spray features, waterslides, and shallow and deeper pools for all kinds of play. There are also lifeguards and lockers to keep you safe and comfortable. Sign the kids up for swim lessons to build comfort in the water and develop their strokes.


 

Get those children fed and fueled at some of these fantastic kid-friendly restaurants.