Whether you’re a nature lover, wine connoisseur, have kids or pets (or both!) or just want to go on a fun adventure, there is something for you on this list of things to do for the ultimate spring break staycation. Staying home for spring break doesn’t have to be a week of TV watching for you and the kids. Northern Virginia Magazine has rounded up a list of activities for you, whether you’re a nature lover, wine connoisseur, have kids or pets or both.
Hunt for bluebells
At Merrimac Farm, Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area is more colloquially known, has more than a mile of frontage along Cedar Run, a seven-acre island, and 100 acres of contiguous wetlands protected by hundreds of acres of forests and meadows. Every spring it shows off one of the largest patches of bluebells in its cerulean glory. In Virginia, bluebells typically hit peak bloom in late March or early April. This year, the farm’s Bluebell Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 8. 15014 Deepwood Ln., Nokesville
Visit a Willy Wonka Wonderland
Tysons Corner Center joins the immersive experience fun with Candytopia. The full sensory experience allows guests to enjoy interactive art installations that celebrate the vibrant colors and flavors of all your favorite candies. Expect to see whimsical delights like flying unicorn pigs and marshmallow tsunamis. Of course, plenty of candy samples will be distributed as you walk through the sugary heaven. 7871L Tysons Corner Center, Tysons
Try Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends
Busch Gardens Williamsburg hosts Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends through April 23. In the Sesame Street Forest of Fun there will be singing and dancing, themed scavenger hunts, games, storytime, crafts, and even a colorful flower maze. Brave little ones will love their first roller coaster ride on Grover’s Alpine Express. 1 Busch Gardens Blvd., Williamsburg
See Endurance: Secretariat’s Triple Crown at 50
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Secretariat winning the Triple Crown. The National Sporting Library and Museum in Middleburg exhibit runs until May 14. See it before it gallops away. 102 The Plains Rd., Middleburg
Relax at Three Fox Vineyards and Brewery
The Delaplane vineyard and brewery is home to a seasonal patio with unmatched views and closeness to the vineyards. Springtime is the ideal season to visit. Kids and leashed dogs are welcome. 10100 Three Fox Ln., Delaplane
Take your pup to Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for a fun event to take your furry friend to while you’re off for spring break, consider Meadowlark Botanical Gardens’ Pup Days. They are offered in April, May, and June, with the first one Wednesday, April 5. Dog admission is $6 per dog. Dogs need to be leashed at all times. 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct., Vienna
Hunt for Easter Eggs
Through April 8, Great Country Farms holds Easter egg hunts. After searching for the Easter bunny’s hidden eggs, see spring chicks and other baby animals, and take a wagon ride. Price varies, depending on whether you buy tickets online or at the gate. 34345 Snickersville Tpk., Bluemont
Go Shopping
A new season is a great excuse for some new clothes. The shops at Leesburg Premium Outlets are celebrating spring with lots of sales and discounts. 241 Fort Evans Rd. NE, Leesburg
Enjoy a Story
At 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, take little ones to the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center for a reading of Hare and Tortoise Race to the Moon, an Aesop’s fable retold and illustrated by Oliver J. Corwin. After the story, guests are welcome to stay and design their own rockets. 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy., Chantilly
Have a picnic
The beautiful Bon Air Park has 24 acres that include playgrounds, charcoal grills, and a picnic area just waiting for your first outdoor meal of the season. 850 N. Lexington St., Arlington
Try Climbing
Movement Climbing, Yoga and Fitness (formerly Earth Treks) offers over an acre of climbing, yoga and fitness opportunities. There are over 350 routes spread out over 35,000 square feet of climbing walls. Instructors are friendly and love helping out new climbers. 1235 S. Clark St., Arlington
Learn to Sail
April and May classes are now open at the Northern Virginia Sailing School for anyone 16 or older . The small crew of instructors at Leesylania State Park limits class sizes for the best experience possible. 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge
Eat Chili Dogs
Nothing ushers in warmer weather better than a good old-fashioned hot dog. Vienna Inn’s chili dogs are best paired with an ice-cold beer or cold soda. Once you’ve licked the last bit off your fingers, you’ll see why over 10,000 chili dogs are sold there monthly. 120 East Maple Ave., Vienna
Visit a Chocolate Factory
River-Sea Chocolates Factory has tours that give kids an interactive look at how chocolate is made. It takes about 45 minutes. Elementary school kids can take home a piece of chocolate they wrap themselves. 4520 Daly Dr., Ste. 100, Chantilly
Explore Hidden Oaks Nature Center
The nature center is tucked into the 52-acre Annandale District Park. There are live animal displays, a pond, creeks, trails, and play areas. Over spring break, events include a dinosaur egg hunt, earning an oceanography merit badge and a nature walk with a police officer. 7701 Royce St., Annandale
See a Movie
The Alamo Drafhouse Cinema in Crystal City is known for screening new and classic movies. It offers cocktails and food during your movie. The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Air are among the films showing in early April. 1660 Crystal Dr., Arlington
Feature photo by Tom Stovall
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