Rainy Saturday? Empty afternoon? Gaithersburg has more family-friendly options than you might think, from indoor climbing walls to a museum that doubles as a science lesson. This list covers nine spots that work for different ages, budgets and energy levels, some built for hands-on family time, others perfect for giving your kids room to explore on their own.
Key Takeaways
- The big picture: Gaithersburg is full of great family activities both inside and outside.
- The details: While some activities encourage family bonding, others let your kids have independence in a safe space.
- The more you know: Gaithersburg’s oak-tree logo represents the famed Forest Oak, a roughly 300-year-old landmark that fell during a storm in 1997.
Gaithersburg Community Museum
An ode to local history and community appreciation, the Gaithersburg Community Museum houses some of the early steam engines that brought business to the area as well as kid-focused play areas and rotating activities that ensure they will have fun no matter when you visit.
- Location: 9 South Summit Ave., Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: About two hours
- Expected cost: Free admission
- Best ages: 4-10
- Tip: Olde Towne Plaza, just next door to the museum, has an interactive water play feature kids will also love.
Arts Barn
This renovated stable now hosts a 99-seat theater where visitors can take in musical performances, film screenings, plays and an art gallery. Honoring the hard work of local creatives, the Arts Barn’s consistently updating calendar of events features a host of different works.
- Location: 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: Two to three hours
- Expected cost: Prices vary based on event
- Best ages: 10 and up
- Tip: Not every show or concert will be geared toward kids, so be sure to check out the events in advance.
Observatory Park
Home to the observatory that once mapped the movement of Earth in space, Observatory Park is fun for both the outdoor adventurer and science explorer in your life. While some kids may enjoy running through the trails, others may be intrigued by the fact that they model the Earth’s wobble on its axis when viewed from above. Take a blanket and some chairs during scheduled skywatching programs for incredible views.
- Location: 100 DeSeullum Ave., Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: One to two hours
- Expected cost: Free to visit
- Best ages: 3-11
- Tip: While stargazing is great, consider going on an afternoon walk with little kids who have an earlier bedtime.
Kids Play Gallery
Full of indoor playgrounds and mini homes and businesses, Kids Play Gallery lets kids unlock their imagination and creativity through immersive play. It’s also the perfect spot to help little ones burn energy on rainy days.
- Location: 217 Muddy Branch Road, Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: About two hours
- Expected cost: $18-20 per child
- Best ages: 3-7
- Tip: Grippy socks are required to play, so bring your own from home or purchase them at the front desk.
Amazing Art Studio
Whether you’re creating pottery, paper crafts or the next holiday gift, Amazing Art Studio helps kids learn new tactile skills while introducing creative hobbies. Themed events and studio-organized parties also offer an opportunity to meet other parents from the area.
- Location: 115 Crown Park Ave., Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: About one hour
- Expected cost: Prices vary based on artwork
- Best ages: 4-10
- Tip: Consider going with friends or attending a scheduled event so your child has someone to create with.
Sportrock
Whether your oldest is looking to try a new sport or your youngest wants something fun to do this weekend, Sportrock is a great way to introduce climbing to the whole family. Offering beginner recreation courses and competitive programs, Sportrock helps kids find their footing.
- Location: 9811 Washingtonian Blvd., Suite 300, Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: One to two hours
- Expected cost: Day passes start at $24 for ages 10 and younger; rentals cost extra.
- Best ages: 7-15
- Tip: First-time climbers may want to start with Sportrock’s instructor-led climbing program.
Gaithersburg-Washington Grove Volunteer Firefighters Museum
Giving your child an opportunity to learn about the lifesavers in their community, the Volunteer Firefighters Museum explores the history of the program, how fire stations run and how kids can stay safe around flames. The museum is open Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Location: 13 East Diamond Ave., Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: About one hour
- Expected cost: Free to visit
- Best ages: 5-10
- Tip: Use this visit as an opportunity to talk about fire safety.
Casey Community Center
This historic landmark is home to a variety of activities that bring families together and help kids grow into their best selves, including reading groups, cooking courses and dance classes.
- Location: 810 South Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: Times vary based on event
- Expected cost: Costs vary based on program
- Best ages: 6 and up
- Tip: While some activities are aimed at young kids, others are for a more general audience, so check the website for more information.
iFLY
You and your family can feel a rush of air and excitement as you take to the “skies” at this indoor skydiving adventure. This activity is best for thrill-seeking kids and is great for family celebrations.
- Location: 9400 Gaither Road, Gaithersburg
- Time commitment: About 90 minutes
- Expected cost: $110 per two flights
- Best ages: 3 and up
- Tip: Avoid wearing jewelry or loose clothing on your visit.
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Stevie Rosenfeld is a journalism and environmental studies student at American University who has reported for American Way of Life Magazine and D.C. Witness. She writes about education, family life and things to do across the DMV.
