Happy Independence Day holiday weekend, Route 1! Plenty of things to do this weekend with the kids along the Route 1 corridor, including: Crafternoon in Greenbelt, Storytime in Mount Rainier, Indoor Splash at Rollingcrest (little kids section’s been updated), Fireworks at Bladensburg Waterfront Park, Great Zucchini in DC and more! Enjoy & Happy 4th of July! And GO USWNT!
This Weekend Guide made possible by:
***Curious about where to watch Fourth of July fireworks and festivities? Check out Route One Fun’s Independence Day Fun post here!
Friday
Badlands Toddler Time (Ages 5 and under)
It’s toddler time! Get ready for some riveting fun at this 30,000 square foot nature-inspired play space. Highlights for toddlers include a dance party and storytime. Parents can play along or relax in the onsite cafe. TGIF!
When: 10am-2pm
Where: Badlands, Rockville
Cost: $12.50+, see admission rates here
Storytime PopUp! @ The Waterhole
Storytime tucked inside a delicious juice bar in Mount Rainier! Curious? Check out our post about Storytime here. While in Mt. Rainier, why not fill out your morning with a visit to the nearby Nature Center (also free!). Storytime best for ages 0-3. Nature Center good for all ages.
When: 10am
Where: The Waterhole, 4004 34th St, Mt Rainier
Cost: Free (Heads-up: Waterhole’s menu is delish, highly recommend indulging!)
Indoor Splash Pool (All Ages)
Check out the recently updated little kids area at this great splash pad! Water slides, water games, multiple swim areas, and jacuzzi for adults. It’s a perfect place for water play on a rainy day or when it’s too hot to be outdoors. Enjoy!
When: 12-9pm
Where: Rollingcrest Chillum Splash Pool, Chillum
Cost: $5-$6, age 2 and under free
Forklift First Fridays: Rock the ‘Lift (All Ages)
We love this monthly summer event that features live music, local art, and funky food trucks. Face painting, strolling magician, and treats for kids. Our time at Community Forklift’s First Fridays here!
When: 6-8pm
Where: Community Forklift, Edmonston
Cost: Free!, But you can support your local artists and businesses by purchasing their wares and tipping the band.
X-treme Teens: Boxing Demonstration (Ages 13-17)
Curious about this sport? Learn boxing basics like footwork, stance, head movement, and punching styles. No sparring so don’t be nervous – we’re all beginners here!
When: 7-10pm
Where: Glenn Dale Community Center, Glenn Dale
Cost: Free! w/ youth MNCPPC ID
Saturday
Dinosaur Park Open House (All Ages)
We think you’re going to dig (get it?!) this event. Work alongside paleontologists and discover an ancient world. Search for new fossils in Prince George’s County! Check out the exhibit, too!
When: 12-4pm
Where: Dinosaur Park, Laurel
Cost: Free!
Crafternoon: Make a Planet (Ages 5-12)
An afternoon of crafting at the library. This time kids’ll be making a planet from papier mache. Take it home and start your own orbit! Parents, participate in this workshop if you’d like.
When: 1-2pm
Where: Greenbelt Library, Greenbelt
Cost: Free!
Afternoon Aviators (Ages 6+)
There’s always a new STEAM-based hands on activity at this aviation destination. No need to make plans in advance, see how your Saturday goes then stop by and explore an aviation themed topic. Check out the museum when you’re done!
When: 2-4pm
Where: College Park Aviation Museum, College Park
Cost: $5, includes museum admission
Bladensburg Fireworks Celebration (All Ages)
Missed the fireworks on the 4th? Take 2! Go to this waterfront park, enjoy moon bounces, face painting, pony rides, video gaming truck and more. Plenty of carnival style and ethnic foods for sale and of course, the finale fireworks display!
When: 6-9:30pm
Where: Bladensburg Waterfront Park, Bladensburg
Cost: Free!, food and activities for fee
Sunday
The Great Zucchini Kids Show (All Ages)
What do you get when you mix a preschool teacher with magic? An interactive magic show where every child is guaranteed to laugh! This entertainer has it all – experience, gentle nature and wacky faces. Busy? Likely yes, get there early!
When: 10:30-11:30am (doors open at 10am)
Where: Capitol Cider House, Washington, DC
Cost: Free!, food and drink for purchase
Women’s World Cup Final Today!
Community Art Drop-in (All Ages)
If you want to fly a kite, first you’ve got to make one! Let this instructor lead you through a kite crafting workshop. Reserve your spot in advance. Two start times, 1pm or 2pm. All materials provided. Limited seats available on a walk-up basis.
When: 1-4pm
Where: Greenbelt Community Center, Greenbelt
Cost: Free!
Sunday Boat Tour (All Ages)
Board a pontoon boat for a leisurely cruise on the picturesque Patuxent River. Prepare for engagement with animals in their natural habitat. It’s a ride you won’t soon forget!
When: 2-3pm
Where: Patuxent River Park, Upper Marlboro
Cost: Free!
Family Movie On The Potomac (All Ages)
Watch Mary Poppins Returns on the jumbo screen. Pack up your chairs, grab food to go and bring your umbrellas (or hope the rain stays clear). You’ve got plans tonight!
When: 6-8pm
Where: Plaza, National Harbor, Fort Washington
Cost: Free!
*** WEEKEND GUIDES RESUME JULY 25th. ***
In the meantime, we’ll be posting events and activities to
Route One Fun’s Facebook & Instagram pages so follow them both to stay in the loop!
Anya says
Thank you for helping us plan wonderful family outings on weekends!
routeonefunlady says
Awe! Thank you for taking the time to comment and share your kind words, Anya! We’re so glad you’re enjoying all the local activities!