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  • Where to Take a Road Trip with the Family This Spring
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Where to Take a Road Trip with the Family This Spring

Whether you want to try your hand at being a spy or enjoy a day with your friends from the ocean, your vacation won’t be boring when you visit these attractions.

By Michele Kettner March 10, 2022 at 10:59 am

With spring break right around the corner, there’s probably a buzz of excitement starting to run through your house. Instead of spending a whole week cooped up inside, hit the road and take a day trip to remember. These nearby attractions are a must-visit for the family.

Colonial Williamsburg

Instead of another trip to Mount Vernon, head down south to tour the historic Colonial Williamsburg. Step back in time to experience a day in the life of the colonist, whether it be with the wigmaker, blacksmith, cabinetmaker, and other key community figures. If you visit in the spring, make sure to see the newborn baby lambs, take a carriage ride around the city, and face your fears with a haunted ghost tour. 101 Visitor Center Dr., Williamsburg

Virginia Aquarium

We may have to wait a few more months to enjoy a summer day at the beach, but that doesn’t mean we can’t visit some of the creatures that call the ocean and Chesapeake Bay home. Whether you want to make a trip to see the sea turtles, sharks, and clown fish (which we are sure your Finding Nemo-loving kids will demand) or enjoy a stroll to the various observation towers and overlooks along the nature trail, it is sure to be a day the family will never forget. 717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach

International Spy Museum

Unlock your inner James Bond with a family mission to the Spy Museum. Once you enter the building, go undercover to test your spy skills (like code-cracking and interrogation tactics), learn about the best spies in history, and see if you have what it takes to become the next great spy. 700 L’Enfant Plz. SW, Washington, DC

Children’s Museum of Richmond

When you’re at the Children’ s Museum the kids are definitely in charge. Perfect for your little ones, they will enjoy a day full of play without knowing they are learning key concepts and skills, like public speaking, healthy eating, and hand-eye coordination. 2626 W. Broad St., Richmond; 6629 Lake Harbour Dr., Midlothian

Medieval Times

Time travel back to the 11th century to take in a legendary show with the high court. The kid-friendly Game of Thrones-style tournament features everything you can imagine, from battling knights to majestic horses. And don’t forget to come with an empty stomach because the four-course feast is fit for a king. 7000 Arundel Mills Cir., Hanover, Maryland

Feature image courtesy Virginia Aquarium

For more ideas for your next family trip, subscribe to our Family newsletter.

Michele Kettner

Michele Kettner

Audience Engagement Editor

Michele Kettner joined Northern Virginia Magazine in 2020 after spending two semesters as an editorial intern at the magazine. The University of Maryland graduate is currently the audience engagement editor and covers everything from can’t-miss things to do and holiday events to new restaurant and store openings throughout Northern Virginia.

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