Author: Ellie Reilly

National Building Museum with Kids: Exciting Playdate in Washington, DC

Posted on by Ellie Reilly
  1. Our Experience
  2. Play. Work. Build.
  3. Brick City
  4. Workshops & Family Programs
  5. Practical Information
Play. Work Build. @ National Building Museum

Our Experience at the National Building Museum

The National Building Museum, nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., is not just a place for adults to explore architectural wonders; it’s a haven of imagination and creativity for kids. With captivating exhibits like Play Work Build and Brick City, the museum transforms into a kid-friendly paradise, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment. Let’s dive into the delightful world of discovery that awaits your family at this architectural treasure trove.

Play Work Build: Unleash Creativity Through Play

At the heart of the National Building Museum’s family-friendly charm is the Play Work Build exhibit. Geared towards children and the young at heart, this interactive exhibit encourages hands-on exploration of building concepts. From towering structures made of large blue foam blocks to intricate designs crafted with smaller versions, children are empowered to unleash their creativity and imagination. The exhibit’s open-ended play environment fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation, making it an ideal space for families to bond while constructing their architectural masterpieces.

Play. Work Build. @ National Building Museum
Play. Work Build. @ National Building Museum
Play. Work Build. @ National Building Museum

Brick City: Where Tiny Bricks Create Grand Adventures

For little ones fascinated by all things brick, the Brick City exhibit offers an awe-inspiring journey through a miniature cityscape. Marvel at iconic landmarks meticulously crafted with LEGO® bricks, from the towering Washington Monument to the majestic Mardi Gras scene. This exhibit not only introduces children to the art of architectural modeling but also sparks their curiosity about urban planning and design. As you build together with LEGO® bricks and DUPLO® bricks, you’ll witness how these can inspire big dreams and aspirations in the hearts of young builders.

Brick City @ National Building Museum
Brick City @ National Building Museum
Brick City @ National Building Museum

Engaging Workshops and Family Programs

Beyond the exhibits, the National Building Museum offers a wide array of engaging workshops and family programs that provide an enriching experience for all ages. From hands-on crafting sessions to interactive lectures, these programs offer an opportunity for families to learn, create, and bond. Whether your child is eager to design their dream home or construct a sustainable city, the museum’s educational offerings foster a deeper understanding of the built environment while encouraging meaningful family interactions.

Practical Information for Your Visit to the National Building Museum

Before embarking on your family adventure at the National Building Museum, here are a few practical tips to enhance your experience:

  1. Plan Ahead: Check the museum’s website for exhibit schedules, special events, and any COVID-19 related guidelines.
  2. Tickets: Purchase your tickets in advance to ensure a seamless entry or check out my blog post on how to get your family in for free.
  3. Snack Breaks: You can eat and drink on the benches in the hallway between exhibits.
  4. Hands-On Learning: Encourage your children to interact with the exhibits, ask questions, and participate in activities to make the most of their visit.

The National Building Museum is a hidden gem that offers kids a captivating blend of entertainment, education, and creativity. Through exhibits like Play Work Build and Brick City, children are invited to explore the world of architecture and design in a fun and interactive way. As you embark on this family-friendly adventure, you’ll create lasting memories and inspire your little ones to see the world around them with a fresh perspective. So, gather your aspiring architects and builders – a world of imagination awaits at the National Building Museum!

Museums for All Offers Free Museum Visits

Posted on by Ellie Reilly
  1. Blog Post
  2. D.C. Museums
  3. Virginia Museums
  4. Maryland Museums

For parents and caregivers, finding engaging and educational activities for children can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. When it comes to sparking curiosity, hands-on museums stand out as exceptional destinations. These interactive wonderlands allow children to immerse themselves in a world of discovery, where learning becomes an exciting adventure. In this blog post, we’ll explore the joys of visiting hands-on museums with children and highlight the invaluable benefits they offer.

hands-on museums
museums type: aquarium
hands-on museums

1. Learning through Play:

Hands-on museums are designed to encourage learning through play. Children can touch, explore, and manipulate exhibits, which ignites their curiosity and creativity. By combining fun with education, these museums provide a dynamic and immersive experience that fosters a love for learning in young minds.

2. Engaging all Senses:

Unlike traditional museums where touch is restricted, hands-on museums actively encourage children to use all their senses. From touching textures to hearing sounds and seeing colorful displays, these multi-sensory experiences enhance understanding and retention of information.

3. Sparking Imagination:

One of the magical aspects of hands-on museums is how they transport children into diverse worlds, from ancient civilizations to outer space. Interactive exhibits and role-playing scenarios allow children to step into the shoes of explorers, scientists, and artists, sparking their imagination and nurturing their dreams.

4. Fostering Critical Skills:

Hands-on museums facilitate the development of critical skills in children. They learn problem-solving by engaging in interactive challenges, improve communication through group activities, and enhance their motor skills as they manipulate objects and build structures.

5. Family Bonding:

Visiting hands-on museums creates wonderful opportunities for family bonding. As parents and caregivers actively participate with their children, they become part of the learning process, making memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

6. Nurturing a Lifelong Love for Learning:

By making education enjoyable, hands-on museums instill a lifelong love for learning in children. These positive experiences lay a strong foundation for their academic journey and encourage a curious and open-minded approach to the world.

Visiting hands-on museums with children is an enriching experience that goes beyond traditional learning methods. These interactive wonderlands ignite a sense of wonder, imagination, and curiosity in young minds. By encouraging play, engagement, and exploration, hands-on museums create a fertile ground for the growth of essential skills and a lifelong passion for learning. So, next time you’re planning a family outing, consider a trip to a hands-on museum, and watch as your children embark on an exciting journey of discovery and delight.

SNAP benefit participants from any state are eligible to receive $3/pp or less admission to select museums nationwide through Museums for All. Present your EBT card (any state) at the time of your visit for the Museum for All rate! Here is a list of participating museums in DC, Virginia, and Maryland with kid-oriented exhibits.

District of Columbia Museums

National Building Museum – Free up to 3 guests, 3 and under always free
Museum of the Bible – $3/pp up to 4 guests, 4 and under always free
International Spy Museum – $3/pp up to 4 guests, 6 and under always free
National Children’s Museum – $3/pp up to 4 guests, 11 Months and under always free (Must be reserved online or by phone at least one week prior to visit date)

Virginia Museums

George Washington’s Mount Vernon – $2/pp up to 4 guests, 5 and under always free
George Mason’s Gunston Hall – Free for unknown number of guests, 5 and under always free
Children’s Science Center Lab – $2/pp up to 6 guests, 1 and under always free (Call ahead to get promo code for purchasing advance time slot tickets)
Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum -$2/pp up to 4 guests, 1 and under always free
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden – $1/Adults (18+), Free 17 & under
Science Museum of Virginia – Exhibitions Only: $2/Adults (13-59), $1/Children (3-12) & Seniors (60+), 2 and under always free
Exhibitions & Dome – $3/Adults (13-59), $2/Children (3-12) & Seniors (60+), 2 and under always free
Children’s Museum of Richmond – $2/pp up to 6 guests, Under 1 always free (Can purchase tickets online with code MFA, don’t forget to bring your EBT card still!)
Explore More Discovery Museum – $2.50/pp, Under 1 always free
Colonial Williamsburg – $3/pp, 5 and under always free
Jamestown Settlement – Free up to 4 guests
American Revolution Museum – Free up to 4 guests
Frontier Culture Museum – $3/pp, 5 and under always free (Nearby local libraries have a reservable free pass for up to 6 guests)
The Mariners’ Museum and Park – $1/pp, 2 and under always free
Virginia Air & Space Science Center – $2/pp up to 4 guests, 2 and under always free
Norfolk Botanical Garden – $3/pp up to 4 guests , 2 and under always free
Nauticus – $3/pp up to 4 guests, 2 and under always free
Children’s Museum of Virginia – $3/pp up to 4 guests, 1 and under always free (Available online for purchase, bring EBT card at time of visit)
Amazement Square – Coming Soon
Science Museum of Western Virginia – Free for unknown number of guests, 2 and under always free
Danville Science Center – Exhibits Only: $2/pp Adults (13-59), $1/pp Children (4-12), 3 and under always free
Dome Only: $1/pp Adults (13-59), $1/pp Children (4-12), 3 and under always free
Exhibits & Dome: $3/pp Adults (13-59), $2/pp Children (4-12), 3 and under always free
Blue Ridge Institute & Museum – Coming Soon, 5 and under always free
Virginia Museum of Natural History – Free for unknown number of guests
Wonder Universe – $3/pp up to 4 guests (Adults 18+), Children 17 and under free

Maryland Museums

Discovery Station – $2/pp up to 4 guests, 1 and under always free
KID Museum – Free for unknown number of guests, Under 1 always free
Calvert Marine Museum – Free for up to 4 guests, 4 and under always free
AnnMarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center – $2/pp up to 4 guests
Historic St. Mary’s City – $3/pp Adults (18+), $1/pp Children (6-17), 5 and under always free
Historic London Town & Gardens – Free for up to 4 guests
B&O Railroad Museum – $3/total for up to 4 guests
Maryland Center for History and Culture – Free for unknown number of guests, 1 and under always free
Chesapeake Children’s Museum – $1/pp, Under 1 always free (Available for purchase on their website with code SNAPEBT, don’t forget to bring EBT card when visiting!)
American Visionary Art Museum – Coming Soon, 6 and under always free
Baltimore Museum of Industry – Free, 6 and under always free
Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture – Coming Soon, 6 and under always free
William Paca House and Garden – Free up to 4 guests, 2 and under always free

A full list of all participating museums nationwide can be found on their website http://museums4all.org.

Free Outdoor Movies Under the Stars in D.C., Virginia, & Maryland

Posted on by Ellie Reilly
  1. Blog Post
  2. D.C. Movie Listings
  3. Virginia Movie Listings
  4. Maryland Movie Listings

There’s something truly magical about spending an evening at an outdoor movie with loved ones. The gentle breeze, twinkling stars, and the anticipation of a movie unfolding on a big screen create an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and enchanting. As a parent, experiencing this delightful event with your family can be an unforgettable bonding experience. In this blog post, I’ll share my personal journey of attending outdoor movies with my young son and offer tips to make the most out of this family adventure.

1. Choosing the Right Movie:

When it comes to selecting a movie for your outdoor cinema night, consider your child’s interests and attention span. Opt for family-friendly, animated films or age-appropriate classics that can capture their imagination and keep them engaged throughout the screening.

2. Prepare for the Outdoors:

Spending an evening outdoors means being well-prepared for any weather. Pack a cozy blanket, insect repellent, and extra layers to ensure your little one stays comfortable. Don’t forget a few of your child’s favorite snacks and drinks to keep hunger at bay during the movie. It’s also a good idea to bring some toys or coloring books to entertain your child before the screening begins.

3. Timing is Key:

For young children, timing is crucial. Choose an outdoor movie that starts the show early enough so that your little one doesn’t get too tired. A movie that begins shortly after sunset is ideal, as it allows your child to enjoy the magical twilight atmosphere before they drift off to dreamland.

4. Set Up a Cozy Spot:

Arrive at the outdoor cinema a little early to secure a good spot. Find a comfortable area close to the screen, but not too close to avoid overwhelming your child with the size of the display. Setting up a cozy spot with blankets and cushions will make the experience more enjoyable for your little movie-goer.

5. Embrace the Experience:

An outdoor movie is more than just watching a show; it’s about embracing the entire experience. Encourage your children to explore the surroundings before the film starts, perhaps playing a game of tag or pointing out constellations in the sky. Engaging in these activities will add extra excitement to the night.

6. Be Prepared for the Unexpected:

Despite meticulous planning, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Your child might get fussy or lose interest during the movie. In such cases, it’s perfectly fine to take a break and explore the outdoor cinema’s surroundings again or even call it a night. Remember, it’s about creating beautiful memories, not sticking to a rigid schedule.

On the way to Starlight Cinema Outdoor Movies
Starlight Cinema Outdoor Movies 2022
Tyson's Corner Center Outdoor Movies 2023

Attending an outdoor movie with your family is a heartwarming adventure that will create cherished memories for years to come. The joy in their eyes as they watch a movie under the stars is truly priceless. By choosing the right movie, preparing for the outdoors, and embracing the experience together, you can make this family outing an enchanting and unforgettable one. So, pack your picnic basket, snuggle up with your little one, and get ready for a magical movie night under the open sky!

District of Columbia Outdoor Movies

Movie Night in the Park at the UDC Amphitheater – 4200 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC
Time: 8:30pm
July 26 – Minions: The Rise of Guru

Sunset Cinema – 970 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC
Time: 7:30pm
July 20 – Bend It Like Beckham
August 3 – A Dog’s Purpose
August 10 – The Sandlot
August 17 – Ratatouille
August 24 – School of Rock
August 31 – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Movies on the Pitch – 100 Potomac Ave SW, Washington, DC
*Free tickets required, click link above*
Time: Gates at 6:30pm, Movie at 7:30pm
August 24 – Minions: The Rise of Gru
September 7 – Jurassic World: Dominion
September 14 – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

The Drive-In at Union Market – 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC
*Free for walk ups in front of market*
Time: July – 9:00pm August-October – 8:30pm
July 21 – Hairspray
August 11 – The Parent Trap
September 8 – E.T.
October 6 – Selena

Extraordinary Cinema – 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC
The REACH video wall at the Kennedy Center
Time: 8-8:30pm (Check specific time in link)
July 21 – Fantastic Mr. Fox
July 28 – The Princess Bride
August 4 – Moana

Films at the Stone – 1964 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC
Time: 8:00 pm
July 21 – Avatar: The Way of the Water

Virginia Outdoor Movies

Columbia Pike Movie Nights – Friday: 909 S. Dinwiddie St, Arlington, VA Saturday: 2501 9th Rd S Arlington, VA
Time: 8:00pm
July 21 – Dog
July 22 – Back to the Future
July 28 – Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank
August 4 – Lady and the Tramp
August 5 – Till
August 11 – Raiders of the Lost Ark
August 18 – Lightyear
August 19 – The Woman King
August 25 – The Goonies
August 26 – Jurassic World: Dominion

Movies @ Met – 1321 S Elm St, Arlington, VA
Time: 7:00pm
August 4 – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Sunset Cinema – 312 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA
Time: TBD
September 29 – Movie TBD
October 6 – Movie TBD
October 13 – Movie TBD

Family Movie Nights – The Plaza @ Tysons Corner Center
Time: 7:00pm
July 28 – Boss Baby: The Family Business
August 18 – Matilda

Starr Hill Movie Nights – Starr Hill Tysons Biergarten 1805 Capital One Dr S Suite 1100, Tysons, VA
Time: 6:00pm
July 23 – Back to the Future
July 30 – Shrek

Movies Under the Stars – Reston Station Metro Plaza
Time: 6:30pm-9:30pm
July 22 – Open Season
July 29 – The Lion King
August 5 – Fievel Goes West & The Rescuers
August 12 – The Jungle Book
August 19 – Zookeeper
August 26 – Moana
September 2 – Dora and the Lost City of Gold

Films in the Park – Strawberry Park, Fairfax, VA
Time: 7:00pm
July 20 –  Puss In Boots: The Last Wish
August 3 – Space Jam: A New Legacy
August 10 – Moana
August 17 – E.T.

Starrlight Cinema – 5860 Trinity Pkwy, Centreville, VA
Time: Pre-show @ 7:00pm, Movie @ Dusk
August 5 – Minions: The Rise of Gru
August 12 – Lightyear
August 19 – The Bad Guys
August 26 – DC League of Super Pets

Crescent Cinema – 8010 Crescent Park Dr, Gainesville, VA
Time: Dusk
July 28 – Vivo

Movie Night – Alternating between 43050 Center St & SRC Stage, South Riding, VA
Time: Sunset
July 25 – The Bad Guys
August 8 – Tangled

Lovettsville’s Summer on the Green – 11 Spring Farm Dr, Lovettsville, VA
Time: Dusk
July 29 – National Treasure: Book of Secrets

Maryland Outdoor Movies

Movies on the Potomac – 165 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD
Time: Thursdays at 7:00pm & Sundays at 6:00pm
July 20 – She’s the Man
July 23 – Her Best Move
July 27 – Gracie
July 30 – Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
August 3 – Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
August 6 – Incredibles
August 13 – Incredibles 2
August 20 – Air Bud: World Pup
August 27 – Space Jam a New Legacy
August 31 – Cruella
September 3 – Shrek
September 10 – Shrek 2
September 17 – Coco
September 24 – Encanto

Movies in the Parks – Various Parks in Rockville, MD
Time: Dusk (~8:00pm)
August 2 – The Boss Baby (Potomac Woods Park)
August 9 – The Secret Life of Pets (Woodley Gardens Park)
August 16 – Cool Runnings (Montrose Park)
August 23 – Raya and the Last Dragon (Maryvale Park)

Movies Under the Stars – 11325 Seven Locks Rd, Potomac, MD
Time: 7:30pm or 8:00pm
August 4 – Toy Story
September 1 – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
October 6 – Encanto

Night at the Movies – 9100 Rhode Island Ave, College Park, MD
Time: 8:00pm
July 29 – Minions: The Rise of Gru
August 26 – The Super Mario Brothers Movie

Summer Movie Nights – 8390 Main St, Ellicott City, MD
Time: Between 7:00pm-9:00pm (Check showtime in link)
August 5 – Men in Black
August 12 – Narnia
August 26 – The Princess Bride
September 23 – Black Panter: Wakanda Forever
October 7 – Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Lakefront Movie Night – 10221 Wincopin Circle, Columbia, MD 
Time: Dusk (Between 8:00pm-8:30pm)
July 24 – Wall-E
July 28 – Strange World
July 31 – The Mitchells vs. The Machines
August 7 – Toy Story 4
August 14 – Super Pets
August 21 – Turning Red
September 1 – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
September 8 – Shazam! Fury of the Gods
September 22 – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Movies on the Beach – North Beach, MD
Time: Dusk
August 19 – Turning Red
September 16 – Thor: Love and Thunder

Bonus: Movies on the Beach – Behind Carousel Resort Ocean City, MD
Time: Dusk
July 26 – Turning Red
August 2 – Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile
August 9 – Minions: The Rise of Gru
August 16 – Sonic the Hedgehog 2

*All Movies Listed Are Free*