When families ask, “What can we do around Fairfax with kids?” Washington Parent has answers. Whether your family prefers outdoor adventures, hands-on science or simply a fun spot to enjoy a meal together, Fairfax offers plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained.
The next time you’re looking for an outing close to home, consider one of these local favorites and make new family memories right in the heart of Northern Virginia. Here’s a curated list of 10 places that balance fun, learning and easy logistics. Each spot offers something unique for younger children yet engages parents too. (Pro tip: always double-check hours or event calendars before heading out.)
Van Dyck Park
Van Dyck Park is one of Fairfax City’s most beloved green oases, spanning about 36 acres of open fields, wooded areas and established trails. The park includes playgrounds, a skate park, tennis and basketball courts, picnic pavilions and lighted sports facilities. Great for an afternoon when kids want to run, swing, climb or just explore. Community master‐plan efforts are in place to add a multi-age playground, expanded trail links and a skate plaza in coming years, making it a destination that will only get better.
- Address: 3720 Blenheim Blvd., Fairfax, VA
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Phone: (703) 385-7858
Fun Land & Tailgaters
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Ideal for a rainy afternoon or when kids need to burn off energy indoors, Fun Land combines arcade games, climbing walls, laser tag, go-karts and more. The integrated Tailgaters restaurant means you can turn your visit into a full family meal outing. Their go-kart track, laser tag arenas and climbing “Clip n Climb” features appeal to older kids, while younger ones can enjoy arcade games and safer attractions. They often run special deals and combos.
- Address: 5111 Westfields Blvd., Centreville, VA
- Hours: Noon-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (703) 817-2488
Jolly Yolly Kids Indoor Playground
A bright, lively indoor gym and playground ideal for toddlers through early elementary ages, Jolly Yolly offers soft play zones, slides, ball pits and obstacle courses. It’s especially good when the weather is lousy or you just want a casual, low-stakes play session without travelling far. Expect a cheerful, parent-friendly space with snacks, seating and drop-in access.
- Address: 11001 Main St., Suite D, Fairfax, VA
- Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; and 4-7 p.m. Monday
- Phone: (703) 259-1166
Hidden Oaks Nature Center
Hidden Oaks introduces kids to local ecology with walking trails, live animals (e.g. turtles, snakes, owls) and interpretive exhibits. Seasonal programs include nature camps, guided hikes and family nature nights. Because it’s tucked into a quiet neighborhood, it offers a peaceful retreat from city noise. The nature trails are easy enough for young children, yet rewarding for curious young minds.
- Address: 7701 Royce St., Annandale, VA
- Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday-Friday; noon-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
- Phone: (703) 941-1065
Bonds Escape Room
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If your family loves puzzles, thrills and collaborative fun, Bonds Escape Room in Fairfax is a perfect choice. With multiple immersive rooms ranging from haunted feasts to sci-fi missions, you’ll race the clock, crack codes and solve mysteries together. It’s a favorite for tweens, teens, families and even birthday parties or team-building events. Each themed experience encourages teamwork, creativity and quick thinking, making it an unforgettable way to spend an afternoon together.
- Address: 3949 University Drive, Fairfax, VA
- Hours: Noon-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-midnight Friday; and 10 a.m.midnight Saturday-Sunday.
- Phone: (703) 270-0377
Fountainhead Regional Park
Nestled along the Occoquan Reservoir, Fountainhead offers paddling, fishing, hiking and picnicking. Families can rent kayaks, canoes or paddleboards and explore calm waters together. It’s especially fun in summer: float in gentle water, fish from designated piers or hike wooded loops. Lifeguards are not always on duty, so supervision is key.
- Address: 10875 Hampton Road, Fairfax Station, VA
- Hours: 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m. daily
- Phone: (703) 250-9124
Children’s Science Center Lab
This hands-on science museum encourages kids to experiment, build and tinker. Exhibits often focus on engineering, physics, biology and maker-type activities. Because exhibits change periodically, check their calendar for special events or exhibits. It’s a great indoor complement to more physical outdoor options.
- Address: 11948L Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, VA (Located in Fair Oaks Mall)
- Hours: 10 a.m.-noon; 1-3 p.m.; 3:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
- Phone: (703) 648-3130
Eakin Community Park & Accotink Trail
A pleasant neighborhood spot, Eakin offers playgrounds, open fields, picnic areas and access to the Accotink Trail for walking or biking with kids. It’s low-key and convenient. Combine a playground visit with a trail walk and bring a picnic lunch.
- Address: 8515 Tobin Road, Annandale, VA
- Hours: 7 a.m.-6 p.m. daily
- Phone: (703) 324-8732
Fairfax Museum & Visitor Center
For a quieter day, the museum offers exhibits on local history and culture, ideal for older children who enjoy stories and artifacts. It pairs well with a stroll through Old Town Fairfax, where you can combine food, shopping and historic exploration in one outing.
- Address: 10209 Main St., Fairfax, VA
- Hours: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday-Sunday
- Phone: (703) 385-8414
Bowlero / Bowl America Fairfax
Bowlero’s Fairfax location, formerly Bowl America, is a family favorite for classic fun with a modern twist. Families can bowl across 40 polished lanes, play arcade and prize games, and grab snacks from the full-service menu while watching sports on big screens. It’s great for rainy days, parties or casual nights out when everyone wants something easy and entertaining. With upbeat music, friendly staff and kid-friendly options, it’s an effortless way to keep the whole family smiling.
- Address: 9699 Lee Highway, Fairfax, VA
- Hours: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 4 p.m.-midnight Friday; 10 a.m.-midnight Saturday; and noon-11 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (571) 328-7125
