When the weather takes a turn for the worse and rain begins to pour, it can be a challenge to keep kids entertained and engaged. However, in Arlington, VA, finding exciting and educational indoor activities for children is easier than ever. From mind-boggling escape rooms like Bonds Escape Room and Escape Room Arlington to iconic attractions like the Air Force Memorial, there is no shortage of options to keep the whole family entertained on a rainy day.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 indoor activities in Arlington, providing you with a comprehensive guide to make the most of those wet and gloomy days.
Jump to places
- Bonds Escape Room - Arlington
- Rocky Run Park
- Escape Room Arlington
- Long Branch Nature Center & Park
- Upton Hill Regional Park
- Mosaic Park
- Powhatan Springs Park
- Westover Park
- The Wonder - Arlington
- Shirlington Park
Bonds Escape Room in Arlington offers a fun and exciting experience for families, especially on a rainy day. Visitors can choose from a variety of themed rooms such as the art attack room or the Elven Forest room. According to guests, the art attack room provides a unique and enjoyable challenge, with the added bonus of being able to throw paint at your friends, resulting in a lot of laughter.
The Sleepover Slaughterhouse is another popular choice, described as creepy but not overly scary, with challenging puzzles that guests had a great time figuring out. The fantastic staff, such as game master Zachary, receive high praise for their helpfulness and professionalism.
Many guests mentioned that it was their first time at the Arlington location and they had a terrific experience. With its engaging rooms and top-notch customer service, Bonds Escape Room is definitely worth a visit for families looking for an entertaining indoor activity.
Bonds Escape Room - Arlington Full Review
Rocky Run Park is worth visiting on a rainy day in Arlington. This community park offers a range of activities for kids of various ages. It features a multi-use oval field, perfect for children to engage in soccer or other outdoor games. Additionally, the park boasts two separate playgrounds catering to different age groups.
Visitors have praised the larger playground, mentioning the climbing ropes and monkey bars that provide an ideal setting for active kids aged 6 and above. However, young children might find it challenging to navigate around certain equipment. For those seeking a quieter play area, there is also a smaller playground available.
Sport-loving families will appreciate the park's two basketball courts and the artificial turf field, which also has a walking loop. Visitors have often mentioned the park's spaciousness and lack of crowds, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a less crowded destination on a rainy day.
Escape Room Arlington is worth visiting for families on a rainy day. Visitors mention that the four rooms offered are all top-tier and exceptionally well done. The mood of the rooms is enjoyed and the puzzles are unique and outside-the-box. Guests appreciate that everything in the rooms is in excellent condition and works seamlessly.
One reviewer suggests updating the slide goggles in the Arcade Room, as they were not working properly. Visitors also appreciate the helpful and courteous staff, with one reviewer specifically praising their game master, Katlyn. Families find this activity enjoyable for both their elementary-aged kids and senior family members, and the staff is accommodating, even adding extra time when guests are close to escaping but running out of time.
Located in Arlington, Long Branch Nature Center & Park is a wildlife sanctuary and nature haven that offers a plethora of activities for families on a rainy day. The park features an impressive array of educational exhibits, allowing children to learn about local wildlife while exploring the interactive displays.
Inside, guests can find a playroom filled with toys and games, perfect for youngsters to enjoy. Outside the nature center, visitors will discover trails that connect to a larger park, complete with a playground and a picnic area, creating an ideal setting for a fun-filled day.
Those seeking outdoor adventure can also explore the dog park and the scenic W&OD trail, as mentioned by reviewers. Parents can rest assured as knowledgeable and friendly staff members provide an organized program for children, ensuring an enriching and enjoyable experience.
While some visitors note that the facilities may require a bit of maintenance, the park's natural beauty overshadows any imperfections. However, it is advised to be cautious of poison ivy if venturing off the trail. Long Branch Nature Center & Park is a fantastic option for families looking to immerse themselves in nature and provide their children with an educational and entertaining experience.
Long Branch Nature Center & Park Full Review
Upton Hill Regional Park is worth visiting for families with kids who are looking for a fun-filled day despite the rain. Sprawling suburban greenspace with a summer water park, trails, mini golf, and batting cages, this park offers a wide range of activities that cater to different interests.
Visitors have mentioned that there are trails available for casual walks, providing a great opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings. The pool, which costs $10 per person, has been described as so much fun and definitely worth the cost. The miniature golf course, priced at only $7, is highly recommended by guests, as it offers 18 fun holes with different challenges.
Kids will also be thrilled to hear that a ropes course is currently under construction, adding even more excitement to future visits. Although the water features throughout the mini golf course were not turned on during one guest's visit, they still had a great time.
Upton Hill Regional Park truly serves as an amazing resource for the community, offering a variety of activities to keep kids entertained on a rainy day.
Mosaic Park is definitely worth visiting on a rainy day. This small neighborhood park offers a range of activities that will keep kids entertained and active. Visitors rave about the park's bright and clean grounds, making it a pleasant environment for families.
The soft impact ground provides an added layer of safety, allowing children to play freely without worrying about injuries. The park has a climbing wall and a regular playground with all the usual equipment, but it also features a few unique additions that set it apart from older parks.
In addition to the playground, there is a soccer field that is especially enjoyable for older kids, as one reviewer mentioned. Whether it's playing soccer with friendly local kids or sliding down the hills, Mosaic Park offers a fun and safe experience for children of various ages.
Plus, the park's convenient location near several restaurants is a bonus for families looking to grab a bite after their playtime.
Located in Arlington, Powhatan Springs Park is a popular park that offers a variety of activities for families to enjoy on a rainy day. With its concrete skate park featuring street-style elements, visitors can witness some impressive transition skating.
According to people, the park focuses on transition skating, boasting two bowls with pool coping. There is a smaller oval-shaped bowl, about five feet in height, as well as a larger bean-shaped bowl that reaches a depth of approximately 10 feet. This makes it an ideal destination for skaters, skateboarders, and bikers of all skill levels.
Furthermore, the park offers ample space, ensuring that both beginners and professionals can find room to practice. In addition to the skate park, Powhatan Springs Park also includes a soccer goal, providing an opportunity for kids to engage in some friendly competition.
Visitors appreciate the well-lit environment, making it possible to enjoy the park even during the late hours of the day. So, whether your little ones are interested in learning to skate or simply want to play some soccer, Powhatan Springs Park promises an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Westover Park, a 4-acre area in Arlington, is worth a visit for families looking for a fun-filled rainy day adventure. Featuring baseball fields, volleyball and basketball courts, a garden, and a picnic shelter, this park offers an array of activities for kids of all ages.
One visitor mentioned their enjoyable experience as they stopped by in search of a geocache, praising the park's wonderful playground. Although dogs are not allowed, the reviewer humorously expressed their enthusiasm to post a photo of their furry friend enjoying the slide.
Moreover, another guest commended the park for its cleanliness, highlighting the well-maintained bathrooms and the shaded pavilion adjacent to the playground, which allows parents to relax while keeping an eye on their children. While the playground may not be the absolute best in the area, guests appreciate its newer equipment and the ample space available for various activities.
Overall, Westover Park provides a solid option for families with its diverse amenities and well-kept facilities.
The Wonder - Arlington, also known as The Nook, is a fantastic indoor play space that is perfect for families with young children. According to guests, this place is a must-visit for kids aged 4 and younger. The play area is equipped with various engaging activities, including a ball pit, bounce space, and other play areas.
Visitors also appreciate the cleanliness and adorable ambiance of the venue, noting that it is not the white and wood space depicted in some pictures but a vibrant green space. Socks are required for safety, and reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.
The Wonder - Arlington is conveniently located inside the Ballston shopping center, and while some way-finding signs refer to it as The Wonder, others refer to it as The Nook. Numerous reviewers have praised the exceptional service provided by the staff members, particularly Sally, Tahira, and Emilie, who have been described as friendly, helpful, and accommodating.
Shirlington Park, a 29-acre park, is worth visiting for families looking for indoor activities to enjoy on a rainy day. This park offers a fantastic play area, which is located on the other side of the park and provides ample space for children to run and play.
Visitors have mentioned the park's beautiful and quiet atmosphere, with a small stream adding to the overall charm. In addition, recreational fields for softball and other activities can be found within the park. The standout feature of Shirlington Park is its well-maintained trails, perfect for runners, cyclists, or those seeking a scenic stroll.
Moreover, the park offers expansive green spaces and playgrounds that cater to people of all ages. Guests appreciate the park's abundant seating options and mention that some doors face the river, allowing dogs to enjoy playing in the water.
