By Amy L. Gouger
Traveling with kids under 21 can be an adventure. They may not enjoy a walk through a museum as much as a theme park. Northern Virginia has something for everyone. Northern Virginia houses part of the nation's capital, which is rich in history. There are plenty of things to do in northern Virginia for those under 21.
Really Young Children
For the truly young children, Harrisonburg Children's Museum wraps the power of the imagination into one package. Children discover the farm, building, science, art, theater and cooking.
30 N. Main St.
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
(540) 442-8900
Little Big Kids
Explore the past at Dinosaur Land. The dinosaurs aren't skeletons, but real-looking dinosaurs. Little big kids will be amazed and excited as they explore the 37 dinosaurs inhabiting the land.
3848 Stonewall Jackson Highway
White Post, VA 22663
(540) 869-2222
A small zoo with several exhibits, Wilson's Animal Park will have the young ones excited as they tour the zoo. The tamer, more domestic animals are in an interactive area. The park has a many smaller animals traditional to a petting zoo, such as pygmy goats and camels. The park also has African lions, lemurs and other more exotic creatures.
985 W. Parkins Mill Road
Winchester, VA 22602
540-662-5715
History for Little Big Kids
As a child grows, along with reading about history, a child should experience history. The Loudoun museum in Leesburg is small enough for a child to appreciate and has interactive exhibits. The Discovery Room is a replica of the 19th century house. It has toys, a play area and time period costumes.
16 Loudoun St., S.W.
Leesburg, VA 20175
(703) 777-7427
Teens
Every teen should visit a historic place such as the Manassas National Battlefield. On the site, two battles of the American Civil War took place. The area is fairly open, so bring walking shoes and water. A visitor's center, bookstore museum, and walking trails are just some of the highlights of the site.
12521 Lee Highway
Manassas, Virginia 20109
(703) 361-1339
Washington, D.C. is a crucial part of the country and Virginia. Teens better understand the Vietnam or Lincoln memorials. They also tolerate the numerous museums that dot Washington, D.C. Though younger children benefit, multiple visits most likely will be needed for them to experience everything.
For Just About Everyone
Skyline Caverns, a natural geological formation in northern Virginia, amazes young and old with intensely beautiful caverns, three underground streams and a 37-foot rainbow waterfall. The guided tour with limited numbers of tour members aids in providing an intimate feel and ensuring everyone gets a great experience. The caverns remain cool throughout the year, so bring a jacket. An outside miniature train takes young and old on a 10-minute ride around the nearby area.
10344 Stonewall Jackson Highway
Front Royal, VA 22630
(540) 635-4545
About the Author:
Amy L. Gouger holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from East Stroudsburg University. Previously a technical agent, she now serves as a ghostwriter and contributor to various online publications.
