Potomac Overlook Regional Park
Arlington isn’t just a bustling suburb of D.C.; it’s also a respite from the frenzied urban atmosphere in the form of Potomac Overlook. Take a hike on more than 2 miles of trail, visit an organic vegetable garden or learn about native plants. // 2845 N. Marcey Road, Arlington; 703-528-5406; novaparks.com/parks/potomac-overlook-regional-park
FALL FUN: The nature center at Potomac Overlook offers a host of kid-friendly programming. Dino-fans will especially love the Prehistoric Park Rangers series, which offers a look at what life was like when dinosaurs roamed the earth. // Oct. 6 and 20, 2-3:30 p.m.; $15; ages 6-10
Occoquan Regional Park
Head to Lorton for field sports, hiking, aquatic adventures and all manner of family friendly fun. Plus, the newly opened The River View at the Jean R. Packard Center offers an indoor and outdoor event space and a riverfront cafe, as well as a 5K trail. // 9751 Ox Road, Lorton; 703-690-2121; novaparks.com/parks/occoquan-regional-park
Ellanor C. Lawrence Park
This mammoth and scenic park in Chantilly boasts historic buildings, wildlife, gardens, playgrounds, trails and just about anything a park-goer might be looking for. Though a few families lived on the land in the 1700s and 1800s, it was Ellanor C. Lawrence and husband David Lawrence (of U.S. News& World Report) who made the park a reality, giving more than 600 acres to the Fairfax County Park Authority. // 5040 Walney Road, Chantilly; 703-631-0013; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/eclawrence
Frying Pan Farm Park
Learn about the local agricultural experience of the early to mid-20th century at this Herndon park that’s popular among families. Kids will enjoy experiencing a working farm (complete with wagon rides) and old schoolhouse, and riding the carousel. // 2739 West Ox Road, Herndon; 703-437-9101; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/frying-pan-park
FALL FUN: Tots will love the Little Hands on the Farm program, where they’ll interact with farm animals, hear a story and create a farm-related craft. // Programs on Oct. 1 and 22, and Nov. 12; $8; ages 2-3 years and 3-5 years; advance registration required and must be accompanied by an adult
Gold Mining Camp Museum at Monroe Park
You don’t have to fly to California to pan for gold—you can just head to Fauquier County. Learn about local gold-mining history and get a sample of the experience yourself with hands-on demonstrations. // 14421 Gold Dust Parkway, Goldvein; 540-422-8170; fauquiercounty.gov/government/departments-h-z/parks-and-recreation/facilities/parks/gold-mining-camp-museum
FALL FUN: Learn how to pan for gold with free demonstrations.// Wednesday-Sunday at 2 p.m. and 10 a.m. on Saturdays
Veterans Memorial Park
Enjoy views of nearby Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Marumsco Creek and Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge as you walk the trails at a park that hosts the Scott D. Eagles Skate Park, a large outdoor pool (open in summer) and is the destination for many sports activities. // 14300 Veterans Drive, Woodbridge; 703-792-8794; pwcgov.org/government/dept.park/vetspark
Hidden Oaks Nature Center
Tucked within Annandale District Park, stumble onto a rain garden, pond, butterfly bench, animal exhibits and trails through the woods. The nature center regularly hosts animal events and educational experiences for families, and is a popular choice for kids’ parties. // 7701 Royce St., Annandale; 703-941-1065; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hidden-oaks
Temple Hall Farm Regional Park
Bring a horse to the trails, explore farm life or catch the Temple Hall Fall Festival at this multifaceted park in Leesburg. The site was once the property of a nephew of George Mason and housed slaves in the 1800s, with a history that intersects with the Civil War. // 15855 Limestone School Road, Leesburg; 703-779-9372; novaparks.com/parks/temple-hall-farm-regional-park
FALL FUN: Mark your calendar for the Temple Hall Fall Festival, celebrating all things autumn. A 20-acre corn maze serves as the centerpiece of this popular fest. Giant jumping pillows, corn shot out of cannons, pig races and plenty of pumpkin-themed treats make this a fun-filled outing. // Through first week of November; $6-$14 based on age and time of day; novaparks.com/events/temple-hall-fall-festival