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Aerial Adventures

Aerial adventure and climbing fun near Dulles Airport

From beginner ropes courses to zipline thrills, these aerial adventure destinations have something for every adventurer in the family — no experience needed!

QUICK LOOK

Shown in order of distance from Dulles Airport…

DESCRIPTIONS

Shown in order of distance from Dulles Airport…

ZavaZone
Sterling, VA ∙ Approx 5 miles from Dulles Airport

ZavaZone is an exciting 30,000-square-foot entertainment destination packed with high-adventure play, including their ropes challenge course, which features both ground-level and elevated climbing. Plus, find the Zipinator, too — a roller coaster-like experience on a zip line!

Up Ultimate Adventure Park
Ashburn, VA ∙ Approx 10 miles from Dulles Airport

Up Ultimate Adventure Park is packed with fun for families and thrill-seekers alike! Inside their 17,000-square-foot facility, scale over 35 uniquely themed climbing walls, race down three big slides, and tackle a massive cargo net! Plus, don’t miss their two-story ropes course, which ends with a zipline! Everyone can enjoy the fun — Up’s advanced auto-belay technology lets even the youngest guests take control of their own climbing.

Climb Upton
Arlington, VA ∙ Approx 20 miles from Dulles Airport

Climb Upton, a NOVA Parks aerial challenge course, features 90 elements on three levels (each a greater skill level) for thrill-seekers ages five and older. Part of Upton Hill Regional Park, Climb Upton is neighboring Ocean Dunes Waterpark, an 18-hole miniature golf course, batting cages, a new playground, and walking trails.

Salamander Adventures
Middleburg, VA ∙ Approx 25 miles from Dulles Airport

Located on 20 acres at Salamander Resort in historic Middleburg, VA, Empower Adventures offers scenic ziplining and outdoor challenges. The main guided Tree Top Zip Tour (ages 7 & up) features five zip lines ranging from 275-675 feet and suspension sky bridges spanning over half a mile. Younger climbers can enjoy the dedicated Kiddo Zip Tour (ages 4-7), plus survival skills courses and rappelling options.

Go Ape
Springfield, VA ∙ Approx 25 miles from Dulles Airport

Go Ape offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure nestled in the trees of South Run Recreation Center! Designed for thrill-seekers of all ages, this high-ropes experience features 70 unique obstacles, tree-to-tree crossings, Tarzan swings, and thrilling zip lines, including a 320-foot ride that soars over a creek. With five unique sections, each one higher and more challenging than the last, there’s something for everyone!

Harpers Ferry Adventure Center
Purcellville, VA / Harpers Ferry Border ∙ Approx 35 miles from Dulles Airport

Located right on the Virginia/West Virginia border along the scenic Potomac River, Harpers Ferry Adventure Center offers an exciting aerial adventure park and zipline canopy tour. The ropes course features over 50 cable and rope bridges across three difficulty levels (10-40 feet in the air), suitable for climbers ages five and up!

The Adventure Park
Sandy Spring, MD ∙ Approx 40 miles from Dulles Airport

The Adventure Park is North America’s largest aerial adventure park, featuring 16 courses packed with bridges, ziplines, ladders, rolling elements, and other climbing challenges. Open to ages six and up, this treetop destination has more than 200 elements across varying difficulty levels, plus options like the aerial forest and the junior Labyrinth course. Families of all ages and abilities will find the perfect adventure!

Terrapin Adventures
Savage, MD ∙ Approx 40 miles from Dulles Airport

Located at historic Savage Mill, MD, Terrapin Adventures provides continuous outdoor thrill-seeking with four main adventure stations. Tackle their 3-level high ropes challenge course (up to 40 feet high), zip down a 330-foot zipline, test your strength on the 43-foot climbing tower with 12 routes, or experience high-speed thrill on the 40-foot giant swing!

Tree Trekkers
Frederick, MD ∙ Approx 45 miles from Dulles Airport

Located on 30 acres of protected forest, Tree Trekkers offers adventurers ages seven and up the chance to climb, swing, and zip through the trees! Climbers start at Timber Trek, the park’s central hub, which features 16 unique trails, over 250 obstacles, and 40+ ziplines across 8 difficulty levels.

River Riders
Harpers Ferry, WV ∙ Approx 45 miles from Dulles Airport

Guests can enjoy a canopy tour in the Potomac River region, where Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia meet! During this experience, you’ll fly high above the ground and next to the river along a network of seven zip lines, including a 1,000-foot-long zipline that soars directly along the Potomac River!

Bear Mountain Ziplines
Luray, VA ∙ Approx 80 miles from Dulles Airport

Offering a fast-paced canopy experience near Shenandoah National Park, the “Mama Bear” tour at Bear Mountain Ziplines features 7 zip lines totaling 2,700 feet of line where riders reach speeds up to 35 mph! The final 1,000-foot stretch glides over an open meadow to land on a tower above their 3-story climbing wall.

Rope Adventure Park
West Luray, VA ∙ Approx 80 miles from Dulles Airport

The Rope Adventure Park at Luray Caverns features two levels that allow participants to advance at their own pace, either individually or as a team. Guests are invited to explore risk, self-discovery, communication skills, problem-solving, and coaching! The courses feature poles connected by various acrobatic elements and incorporate sophisticated safety systems that utilize ropes, belay devices, and harnesses.

WILLING TO DRIVE?

Check out these opportunities just a little farther away…

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Updated Sept 5, 2026

Tons of Fun @ Tons-of-Trucks!

This opportunity is over; visit our calendar for up-to-date fun!



‹‹ More Touch-a-Truck Fun

On September 26, 2026, Chinquapin Park will once again be filled with tons of fun and tons of trucks!!

At the City’s 10th annual Tons-of-Trucks, kids can touch, explore, and climb aboard trucks and more! They’ll even get to meet the people who protect, build, and serve the City of Alexandria.

The trucks roll in at 10 am and stay until 2 pm, and little ones can get behind the wheel of their favorite City vehicles — police cars, snow plows, fire trucks, and DASH buses — then meet the staff who build, maintain, serve, and protect the community.

There’s plenty to do between climbs, too: hands-on art making with the City’s Mobile Art Lab, giveaways, music, photo opportunities, family activities, and food truck vendors.

Need a quieter start? The first 60 minutes, 10-11 am, is a sensory-friendly hour.

Limited parking is available at Alexandria City High School (3330 King St), First Baptist Church (2932 King St), and Oakland Baptist Church (3408 King St).

This event is free to attend; however, registration is requested.

Details:
Eventbrite

Date:
Sept 26, 2026 ∙ 10 am-2 pm

Location:
Chinquapin Park Rec Ctr ∙ Alexandria, VA

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Explore the US Capitol : Tours, Hands-On Exhibits, & More

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US Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, DC
By DullesMoms, October 2026

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a visit to the US Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) in downtown Washington, DC, offers a unique chance to explore the legislative process and the Capitol’s architectural grandeur.

Hours & Admission
The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and Inauguration Day). Admission to the CVC and guided tours are free.

Guided Tours
Explore the Crypt, the Rotunda, and National Statuary Hall on guided tours led by professionals. Tours last about an hour; plan on at least 90 minutes for your visit. Reservations are strongly recommended to secure your preferred time slot, and you must enter every attendee’s name at least 2 days before your visit. Same-day passes may be available; if you arrive without a reservation, please arrive no later than 2:30 pm.

Specialty & Seasonal Tours
If you’ve experienced the standard Capitol tour and want even more depth, consider one of the Visitor Center’s specialty tours, offered Mon-Fri and lasting 45 minutes. Ask about the availability of free passes at the North Information Desk in Emancipation Hall:

Halls of the Senate
Explore the work of Constantino Brumidi, renowned for his “Apotheosis of George Washington” in the Capitol Dome and art that fuses classical styles with American themes. The Senate Wing showcases his legacy and offers insights into his life and artistic impact. This tour does not visit the Senate Chamber; Senate Gallery passes are required to see the chamber.

Votes for Women
Explore the history of women’s suffrage through the stories of leaders like Sojourner Truth, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Ida B. Wells, Alice Paul, and Inez Milholland on a tour of the Rotunda, National Statuary Hall, and Emancipation Hall.

Indigenous Peoples in Capitol Art
Discover how perceptions of America’s indigenous peoples have changed through the Capitol’s evolving art collection on this insightful tour.

Heroes of Civil Rights
Explore the interwoven narratives of Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass, and Charles Sumner on a tour that covers Emancipation Hall and the Old Senate Chamber, detailing their pivotal roles in the transition from slavery to civil rights.

Remembering the Revolution
Explore the nation’s founding through revolutionary history and John Trumbull’s classic historical paintings in the Rotunda.

Outdoor Grounds Tour (Seasonal)
Offered seasonally (September-October), Mon-Sat at 11 am, this 50-minute guided walking tour explores the 58-acre Capitol Grounds and Frederick Law Olmsted’s historic landscape design. This tour begins outside the CVC’s north entrance; no passes are required.

Exhibition Hall & Democracy Lab
Filled with interactive exhibits, the Exhibition Hall tells the story of Congress and the US Capitol. Within the hall, the Democracy Lab offers group activities tailored for kids aged 8 to 14 for a hands-on learning experience. The Democracy Lab is open Mon-Sat, 10 am-3 pm (hours subject to change); visitors of all ages are welcome, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and a visit takes about 15-30 minutes. From October-December (Tue-Wed) and January-February (Tue-Thu), the Lab may close to the public for 1-2 hours at a time for group reservations.

Senate & House Chamber Galleries
Please note that standard Capitol tours do not include entry into the Senate or House Galleries. US citizens can request gallery passes through their Senator or Representative’s office (residents of US territories can request them through their delegate or resident commissioner). International visitors can inquire about gallery passes at the House and Senate appointment desks located inside the CVC.

Visitor Tips & Guidelines

  • Security Screening
    All visitors must pass through security. Food and beverages (including water), aerosol spray cans, and oversized bags (larger than 18″ x 14″ x 8.5″) are strictly prohibited (empty bottles are allowed). There is no storage on site.
  • Families
    Strollers are permitted, baby changing stations are available in each family restroom, and a lactation room is located near the restaurant on the lower level.

Details:
Website

Location:
US Capitol Visitor Center ∙ Wash, DC

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

My Way Matinee: Shaun the Sheep

This opportunity is over; visit our calendar for up-to-date fun!

At a My Way Matinee, Regal Theatre offers an accessible movie experience for everyone! On September 26, 2026, you’re invited to see Shaun the Sheep: Beast of Mossy Bottom at:

  • Regal Fox ∙ Ashburn, VA
  • Regal Virginia Gateway ∙ Gainesville, VA

With brighter lighting and lower sound levels, My Way Matinee offers an environment where guests can express themselves freely. Whether singing, crying, dancing, strolling, conversing, or even yelling, everyone is welcome as they enjoy Hollywood’s latest movies!

Details:
Website

Date:
Sept 26, 2026

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Vienna Halloween Parade

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‹‹ More Halloween Fun

Haunted history marches down Maple Avenue! Celebrate the Town of Vienna’s rich history at the 80th Annual Vienna Halloween Parade on October 28, 2026 — a longtime tradition since 1946!

Like this? Discover more…
Halloween Parades

The revelry all happens downtown, along Maple Avenue, from Branch Road to Center Street, leaving a trail of Halloween fun in its wake! This year’s theme is “Haunted History: 250 Years of America,” a fitting nod to America’s 250th birthday, with floats, bands, walking groups, animal entries, antique vehicles, and more making their way along the half-mile route.

Held rain or shine on the Wednesday before Halloween, this one’s a can’t-miss for kids and kids-at-heart.

Details:
Website

Date:
Oct 28, 2026

Location:
Vienna, VA ∙ See parade route here

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Herndon Turkey Trot

‹‹ More Turkey Trots

Turkeys, young and old, are invited to Herndon Parks & Recreation’s Turkey Trot on November 21, 2026!

This scenic cross-country 5K is one of Herndon’s longest-running pre-Thanksgiving traditions, welcoming runners of all experience levels (ages 4 and up) for an afternoon of fitness, fun, and friendly competition. The first 400 pre-registered runners score a long-sleeve commemorative race shirt, and awards go to the top two finishers in each age division. Plus, the overall male and female champions take home a turkey with all the trimmings!

Pre-registration closes Friday, November 20, and packet pick-up has moved to a new spot this year: Izzi’s on Elden Street in Herndon. Runners must complete the course within 45 minutes, and strollers, bicycles, and dogs are not permitted on the course. Bring a canned food donation on race day to support LINK and local families experiencing food insecurity, too!

Details:
Website

Date:
Nov 21, 2026

Location:
Herndon Community Center ∙ Herndon, VA

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Burke Centre Festival

This opportunity is over; visit our calendar for up-to-date fun!

‹‹ More Fall Fun & Guides

For one big weekend, from September 26-27, 2026, take in an arts & crafts show, live entertainment, community booths, and so much more at the Burke Centre Festival!

For kids (& kids-at-heart!), there’s plenty to enjoy! Find amusement and pony rides, midway-style games, roving characters, and first responder displays. There will also be face painting and clown, puppet, and magic shows!

For adults, the Festival’s wine & beer garden features Cave Ridge Vineyards and Bunnyman Brewing. Open both days, however, Saturday evening features extended hours and live entertainment.

This special annual event is free to attend; learn more about shuttle service online.

Details:
Website ∙ Facebook

Dates:
Sept 26-27, 2026

Location:
Burke Centre Conservancy Grounds ∙ Burke, VA

Looking for the Burke Center Festival? You’re in the right place!

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

The Big Guide: Touch-a-Trucks

This opportunity is over; visit our calendar for up-to-date fun!

Kids and kids-at-heart are invited to get up close and personal with cars, trucks, and pretty much anything with wheels!

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Tumble Into a Day of Fun @ Gym America

This opportunity is over; visit our calendar for up-to-date fun!

Flip, bounce, and tumble your way into fall! On September 19, 2026, Gym America Gymnastics & Dance Center celebrates National Gymnastics Day with a free open house — and you’re invited!

Gym America, a 14,500-square-foot learning environment in Chantilly, VA, offers opportunities for all ages and skill levels. From rec/competitive gymnastics instruction (including HS/adult) to cheerleading, Ninja Fit classes, and tumbling, you’ll find the perfect opportunity to learn fundamental skills and increase your strengths.

Spend the afternoon exploring the gym during open gym and demo classes. There will even be moon bounces, a balloon artist, arts & crafts, and so much more!

Whether your child is new to gymnastics or already a seasoned tumbler, this is a great opportunity to meet the coaches, explore the gym, and start your tumbling journey!

Details:
Website

Date:
Sept 19, 2026

Location:
Gym America ∙ 14434 Albemarle Point Pl, Ste 100E, Chantilly, VA 20151

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Renaissance Festival

This opportunity is over; visit our calendar for up-to-date fun!

Maryland Renaissance Festival
‹‹ More Fall Fun & Guides

Step back in time and enjoy a world of merriment and make-believe at the Maryland Renaissance Festival — and this year marks a milestone: its 50th season!

On weekends from August 29-October 25, 2026, the 27-acre Village of Revel Grove comes alive with more than 200 professional performers on ten stages, a 3,000-seat arena featuring armored jousting, and over 140 artisans selling handmade goods. With an ongoing storyline following King Henry VIII and his six wives, this isn’t just a fair — it’s a journey back to 16th-century England!

Check out a few select special 2026 weekends:

Aug 29-30, 2026
Children’s Weekend
One child (ages 7-15) gets free admission with each adult ticket; children 6 and under are always free!

Sept 12-13, 2026
Myth & Magic Weekend
Celebrate the myths and legends of the British Isles with special magic performances throughout the weekend.

Sept 19-20, 2026
Pirate Adventure Weekend
Pirate music and mayhem! Dress to impress in your piratical best!

Sept 26-27, 2026
Celtic Celebration
Enjoy a weekend filled with Celtic music, dance, and performances from festival favorites and special guests.

Oct 3-25, 2026
Harvest Hollow
Get into the spirit of the season with harvest decorations and special performances for autumn’s spooky season.

Check the full schedule and start planning your visit to Revel Grove!

Details:
Website

Dates:
Weekends, Aug 29-Oct 25, 2026

Location:
1821 Crownsville Rd ∙ Annapolis, MD

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Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.