Not every family has the opportunity to take week-long vacations over the summer with busy schedules. The kids are at camp, and mom and dad are busy at work. You all deserve some relaxation and family bonding, but where do you go on your weekends? Do you want to go somewhere fun? Maybe your family enjoys soaking up some sun and relaxing. Education is important to maintain over the summer too, so maybe you could take a trip back in time at historical cites? No matter what your family loves, here are a few options with a little something for everyone for quick weekend getaways. Whether it’s a short drive there and back or you want to stay the whole weekend, everyone will have fun and maybe learn a thing or two along the way!
THEME PARKS
Who doesn’t love rollercoasters and carnival food? Below are a few fun, but close, amusement parks for the entire family to enjoy!
Hershey Park
Address: 100 W. Hersheypark Drive
Hershey, PA 17033
Hours: Hours vary depending on what day you visit; check www.hersheypark.com/park-info/hours.php for more details!
Entrance Fee for a one-day pass:
Ages 2-Younger: Free
Ages 3-8: $41.95
Ages 9-54: $64.95
Ages 55-69: $41.95
Ages 70+: $26.95
Six Flags
Address: 13710 Central Avenue
Upper Marlboro, MD 20721
Hours: Hours vary depending on which park you attend and what date you’re attending; check www.sixflags.com for more details!
Entrance Fee for a one-day pass:
General Admission: $65.99
Children under 48”: $45.99
Children 2-Younger: Free
Busch Gardens
Address: 1 Busch Gardens Boulevard
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Hours: Hours vary depending on what day you visit; check seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-williamsburg/park-info/park-hours?from=Top_Nav for more details!
Entrance Fee for a one-day pass are $70 for ages 3-9 and $80 for ages 10 and over.
Kings Dominion
Address: 16000 Theme Park Way
Doswell, VA 23047
Hours: Hours vary depending on what day you visit; check www.kingsdominion.com/explore/calendar-and-hours for more details!
Entrance Fee for a one-day pass (check online for special pricing! Rates vary depending the date you are planning to attend):
Over 48” tall, ages 3-61 years old:
$67 at the gate
Junior (under 48”) $45
Senior (ages 62+) $45
BEACHES:
Everyone loves a good beach trip! Unfortunately, popular beaches like the Outer Banks can be expensive and a long drive. Here are some closer beach destinations that are more affordable for a short weekend visit!
Ocean City, MD
Ocean City, Maryland, is one of the closest beaches to Northern Virginia. It has an expansive boardwalk with plenty of family-friendly fun, including museums, golf, and boardwalk games. Whether it’s splashing around in the water on Jet Skis or relaxing in the warm sand, Ocean City has something for everyone! For more information, visit ococean.com/.
Chincoteague
Searching for a quiet relaxed beach town? Look no further! Chincoteague is part of Assateague Island and is the perfect destination for the relaxed family. The beaches are known mainly for their quiet towns and wild ponies. For more information, visit www.chincoteague.com/.
Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach may be a slightly further drive, but it’s worth it! There’s golfing for dad, art galleries for mom, and plenty of beach fun for kids! From expansive shopping to large beachfronts, Virginia Beach is sure to please! For more information, visit www.visitvirginiabeach.com/summer/.
HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS:
Avoiding “summer slide” can sometimes be a challenge. The best way to combat summer boredom and keep kids’ education up-to-date is to inspire wonder with historical sites! Living so close to Washington, D.C., Northern Virginians tend to forget the rich history that surrounds us. Here are a few ideas to get the kids out of the capital and into some neighboring areas.
Gettysburg
You can tour battle grounds or a winery. There are paranormal tours for the brave and fresh air fun for those seeking a different adventure. For more information, visit www.destinationgettysburg.com/index.asp.
Philadelphia
Lay your eyes on the Liberty Bell or explore the Magic Gardens. Hungry? Grab a world-famous cheesesteak! For more information, visit www.visitphilly.com/.
Williamsburg
Want an authentic Colonial tour? Look no further! Williamsburg offers a rich experience for everyone, as well as outlet shopping for the end of your long day. For more information, visit www.visitwilliamsburg.com/.
