Now that winter is finally drawing to a close, it’s time to start planning some activities to shake off that cabin fever! Check out some of these local venues that offer fun for families with young children:
Wheaton Regional Park, Georgia Ave. Entrance: Entering Wheaton Regional Park off Georgia Avenue — just south of Randolph Road — you will find a large picnic area with lots of play equipment, a miniature train, and a working carousel.
Weekends in April this year feature a fun “Eye Spy” experience on the miniature train. Riders will receive a card with characters to spot along the trip. Children under 2 ride free with a paying adult. The “Eye Spy” experience is available April 17 to 22 as well for MCPS spring break, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Pack a picnic and enjoy this free public park! More information is available at the Wheaton Regional Park website.
Brookside Gardens: Spring is a wonderful time to visit Brookside Gardens. This 50-acre public garden includes an aquatic garden, azalea garden, butterfly garden, children’s garden, Japanese garden (complete with koi pond), rain garden, a woodland walk, and more.
You’ll also find a picnic area and nature center near the parking lot. Admission to the gardens is free. Brookside Gardens also has a variety of classes and program for preschool-age children.
Information on both the park and child-friendly programs can be found at the Brookside Gardens website.