The Joy Troupe NOVA Family Guide
Northern Virginia Family Fun
If you’ve got a kid who likes to run up the slide, take them to Windmill Hill to have a go at the climbing hill. In fact, climbers, clamberers, and shinniers of all descriptions will love this playground. The climbing hill separates the enclosed playground into two areas- one suitable for toddlers, and one meant for pre-K and up.
Read MoreThe play equipment in this park is not gathered together into a single playground area, but scattered on either side of the Holmes Run Trail throughout the park. This is either a totally brilliant idea or a totally awful idea, depending on how likely your kid is to dart out in front of oncoming cyclists when they get bored and want to move on to the next piece of equipment.
Read More110 S. Union Street, Alexandria VA 22314 – (703) 683-1756
Open: Thurs-Sat 11-5, Sunday 12:30-5, closed Mon-Wed
From a cupcake-making party to homemade pizza or something less traditional like hummus and falafal, I will work with you and your child to plan a fabulous party.
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If you haven’t visited Tarleton Park lately, it’s time for another look. The park’s previous, safe if a bit seedy, play equipment has been demolished. In its place is a fully enclosed off-leash exercise area for dogs, and a brand new, train themed, play area has been installed nearby. New walking paths connect the park with the Holmes Run Trail and with the street. The playground has a rubber surface and is in partial shade, depending on the time of day.
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Although mostly green space and picnic area, this park does have a preschool age playground tucked into one corner. The playground surface is mulch. The play area is enclosed, and there are benches for the adults. No restrooms, not shaded, and the parking is on street.
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Head over to Lee District Park for a hike! Once you’ve tired of getting your stroll on, you’ll have five different play areas to choose from for the kids to enjoy while you wind down with a drink and a snack. Parts of the nature trail are definitely for the more intrepid strollers among us, but you’ll find a perfect “Pooh Sticks” bridge, lots of attractive views, and some good opportunities to teach your kid how to follow trail blazes.
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Playground is not shaded. It is fairly near the parking lot but not the street. Ample off-street parking and portolets. Playground surface is mulch, and there are benches and picnic tables nearby. Lots of open space for kids to run in.
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Parkhurst Park
5820 20th Rd. N.
Arlington, VA 22205
If you’ve never been to a Music Together Class, you should definitely take advantage of the next opportunity for a preview class. If you’re thinking your baby is too young, think again- the room was wall-to-wall babies and they were all having fun! The youngest were firmly in the “pre-mobile” camp. My little guy got excited as soon as we walked in and the music was playing in the background. By the time the ukelele came out, he was beside himself. He played with egg shakers, learned a new word (ribbit), danced, and made friends with the other babies.
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Enjoy the breeze off the water and take in the view while you stroll, walk, bike, or jog the Mount Vernon Trail. This 18 mile system of parks, trails, and scenic routes goes from Rosslyn to Mount Vernon. You can access the trail at a number of locations along its route, all with parking. There are also restroom facilities and (in season) water fountains at various points, as well as picnic areas, scenic overlooks, and historical markers.
Read MoreThings are moving right along. All the equipment is installed and the concrete is poured. Looks like they are ready to start putting down the rubber surface. Have you visited …
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