Potomac is packed with beautiful outdoor spaces, interactive museums and delicious treats that kids love. Whether your kids enjoy exploring nature or discovering something new indoors, these local favorites offer fun for the whole family. To make sure these recommendations are accurate and current, we checked official websites and community resources.
Great Falls Overlook & Billy Goat Trail
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Great Falls Park offers amazing views of the Potomac River and impressive waterfalls that always wow kids. The Billy Goat Trail includes different sections with varying difficulty, making it a great choice for adventurous families. There are spots along the way to rest, explore and take photos. Rangers are on hand for safety tips and information, but because of the terrain, this activity is best for older children able to hike confidently. Bring sturdy shoes and pack snacks to enjoy along the trail.
- Address: 11710 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac
- Hours: 7 a.m.- dusk daily
- Phone: (301) 739-4200
Cabin John Regional Park
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Cabin John Regional Park features multiple playgrounds, sports courts, picnic areas and paved trails that work well for strollers. Younger kids love the Adventure Playground with its large slides and climbing structures, and families can make a full day of it by adding a nature walk or lunch under the covered shelters. The park is clean, well-maintained and easy to navigate. In warmer months, the mini-train ride adds extra fun.
- Address: 7400 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda
• Hours: Sunrise-sunset daily
• Phone: (301) 495-2595
Glenstone Museum — Outdoor sculptures and paths
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Glenstone Museum blends art and nature, offering outdoor sculptures and walking paths that are beautiful to explore. The peaceful setting encourages curiosity as kids look closely at large-scale works. Indoor areas are more suitable for older children, but outdoors is relaxed and stroller-friendly. Tickets are free, but reservations are required. Staff are friendly and available to guide visitors through the grounds. It’s a calm, unique way to introduce kids to contemporary art.
- Address: 12100 Glen Road, Potomac
- Hours: Reservation times vary
- Phone: (301) 983-5001
Locust Grove Nature Center
Locust Grove Nature Center offers hands-on nature programs for kids of all ages. Families can explore forest trails, see seasonal exhibits and enjoy guided educational events. It’s a great place to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems while staying active outdoors. The staff hosts regular nature programs that often involve crafts or exploration challenges. The space is budget-friendly and easy to navigate with little ones. It’s especially fun for curious kids who love bugs, plants and animals.
- Address: 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda
- Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday
- Phone: (301) 765-8660
Bullis School — Family-friendly theater & performances
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Bullis School regularly hosts performances in the Blair Family Center for the Arts that are open to the local community. Families can enjoy musicals, concerts and dance showcases put on by talented students in a professional theater environment. It’s an affordable way to introduce kids to live performances. Seating is comfortable, and the venue is easy to navigate for younger audiences. The productions are high quality but still casual enough that families with little ones feel welcome. Check their events calendar online for upcoming shows throughout the school year.
- Address: 10601 Falls Road, Potomac
- Hours: Showtimes vary by event; check online
- Phone: (301) 299-8500
KID Museum — Davis Library
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KID Museum’s Davis Library location gives families a creative indoor option where children can design, build and explore hands-on STEAM activities. Kids can try simple robotics, crafting projects and interactive maker challenges designed to spark curiosity and problem-solving. The space is bright, friendly and run by educators who help guide younger learners through each project. Parents appreciate that the activities rotate throughout the year, so every visit feels new. Weekend workshops and school-break programs make it a great go-to when the weather turns cold. Reservations are recommended for special sessions.
- Address: 6400 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda
- Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays
- Phone: (240) 777-0922
Pinstripes — Bowling & bocce
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Pinstripes offers a polished but family-friendly environment where adults can enjoy great food while kids bowl or play bocce. It’s quieter and more relaxed than loud arcades, making it good for multi-generational outings. Families love the comfortable lounge seating and the ability to reserve lanes ahead of time. The menu includes kid favorites as well as upscale options for adults and this spot works well for birthdays, weekend fun or school-break afternoons. It’s just a quick drive from Potomac at Pike & Rose.
- Address: 11920 Grand Park Ave., North Bethesda
- Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (240) 630-3222
AMC Montgomery 16 — Family movie nights
This movie theater at Westfield Montgomery Mall is a perfect indoor escape for all ages. Families can catch new releases, including kid-focused films and holiday favorites. Recliner seating makes longer movies more comfortable, especially for younger viewers. The arcade-style lobby games offer extra fun before showtime. It’s conveniently located near restaurants for dinner and movie outings.
- Address: 7101 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda
- Hours: Showtimes vary daily
- Phone: (301) 547-3197
iFly Indoor Skydiving
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If your family likes adventure, iFly is an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults. Trained instructors guide flyers in a safe wind tunnel that simulates skydiving. It’s a memorable birthday or celebration choose-your-own-adventure activity. Spectators can watch from viewing areas, making it fun even for kids who sit out. Easy online booking available.
- Address: 9400 Gaither Road, Gaithersburg
- Hours: Noon-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
- Phone: (202) 883-4359
Sprinkles Potomac Village
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Sprinkles is a local favorite for cupcakes, cookies and special-occasion treats. Kids love picking their own flavor from the display window and options change often. The shop is small but cozy, and quick service means you’re in and out fast. Parents appreciate the gluten-free and seasonal selections. Holiday-themed baked goods make visits extra fun.
- Address: 10148 River Road, Potomac
- Hours: 4-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 4-10 p.m. Friday; Noon-10 p.m. Saturday; Noon-9 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (301) 299-8415
