10 Reasons to Roar: National Zoo Re-Opens + More Kid-Friendly Summer Fun Ideas!

​Running out of things to do with your kids?

Before you pull your hair out in frustration, we've got some cool suggestions for fun activities (indoors and outdoors) across the DMV as the summer heats up!

1. National Zoo Re-Opens July 24

Two bison, an Andean bear and a baby wallaby are among the new animals ready to welcome visitors back to the National Zoo when it reopens on July 24. There are some new rules for those wanting to visit the zoo and the center: Free, timed passes will be required for entry; you can get them online here or you can call 800-514-3849, ext. 1. The free, timed passes will help to keep numbers manageable so guests can effectively social distance. 5000 passes will be released each day. And to further help ensure the safety of guests, visitors over the age of six will be required to wear a face covering (even when outside at the Zoo), and will have directional guidance where appropriate to help ensure social distancing.

2. Play Mini Golf at Historic DC Course

Foooore! Hit the greens for 19 holes of miniature golf at the historic Hains Point mini-golf course. It's the oldest continuously operating miniature golf course in the country and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  It's also the only outdoor mini-golf course in DC.

3. Decorate Cupcakes with DIY Kits

Sprinkles Cupcakes is offering daily at-home cupcake kits to tempt your sweet tooth. The sets come with four or 12 assorted, un-iced cupcakes plus frosting, sprinkles, and a spatula for you to do the edible artistry yourself. If you’d prefer to do the baking as well, you can order their retail set of cupcake mix, baking cups, and a Sprinkles spatula.

4. Beat the Heat with Cool Ice Cream Treats

Grab the kids and get ready for the most delicious brain freeze ever at some of the best ice cream destinations in DC!

5. Go Fish (No, Not the Game!) with Anacostia Riverkeepers

Anacostia Riverkeeper’s annual Friday Night Fishing summer series returns this evening. Every Friday 5-8pm from July 17 to August 28, join for catch-and-release in the Anacostia River at Diamond Teague Park (1520 First Street SE). This free outdoor activity offers all gear and bait, plus fishing guides with safe social distancing and sanitation practices.

6. Watch New + Classic Movies Outside

Spend a cinematic night under the stars at a drive-in theatre or outdoor movie.

7. Dive In at Nearby Swimming Holes

DC pools are closed but here’s a round-up of swimming holes near DC to take a dip in these steamy summer days.

8. Try Painting Pottery

Get creative at painted pottery purveyors All Fired Up at one of their two locations or pick up a paint kit and decorate your selected pottery at home. You get a set of brushes, 4 paint colors and take-home instructions (pottery is purchased separately) for $8. Plus, they'll deliver items to your door.

9. Prepare for Liftoff

High flying adventure awaits at Northern Virginia's only indoor skydiving destination. Kids as young as 3 can fly in iFly’s vertical tunnel with instructors directly within reach, helping you to fly like your favorite superhero!

10. Have a Family Rooftop Picnic

Here’s something the whole family can enjoy! Ivy City’s massive “family social club” has reopened as Picnic at The Lane, a family-friendly beer garden on the roof with picnic-style fare and a lineup of socially safe events geared toward kids (tie-dye, friendship bracelets, flower arranging) and adults (mixology class).

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Curious? There's More!

• Feel the Heat: 14 Fabulous Things to Do Outdoors This Summer
• 8 Great "Hidden" Parks and Green Spaces in DC to Discover Over Memorial Day Weekend​
• Super Size Edition: Parent's COVID Survival Guide; 20+ Kid-Friendly Activities to Save Your Sanity
• Parents' Survival Guide: 10+ Cool Ways to Keep Kids Busy While Stuck at Home Due to the Coronavirsus