Summer's here, and coming with it is a multitude of fun, family-friendly events. Here's your guide to what's happening across the DMV this July.

FEATURED DESTINATIONS AND ACTIVITIES

In this section, Washington Parent's advertising partners share their top summer destinations and activities.

Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay

The award-winning Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina is the kind of place where families can do as much or as little as they want — and still come home feeling like they made the most of summer. Water lovers will be right at home with multiple outdoor pools overlooking the waterfront, including an adventure pool with a waterslide, plus an indoor pool where nightly dive-in movies make for a perfect end to a full day. Throughout the summer, the resort partners with Black Water Adventures for water sport rentals and guided kayak excursions. Parents looking for some me-time can head to Sago Spa & Salon for standout treatments like the VOYA seaweed poultice massage or the Eminence marine flower hydrating peptide facial. Golf enthusiasts can hit the links at the onsite River Marsh Golf Club. Before you book, check out the resort's Sunny Days, $100 Ways package. Available for stays between June 15 and Sept. 30, 2026 — when booked by Sept. 30 — guests receive a $100 resort credit to use toward spa services, golf or dining at one of the resort's on-site restaurants. Visit the resort's website to book.

  • Address: 100 Heron Blvd US-50, Cambridge, MD

More destinations and activities

This section features other DMV summer destinations and activities chosen by Washington Parent staff. Many of these destinations and activities have high reviews according to Google, Yelp and other destination websites.

TODDLERS (2-4)

National Gallery of Art Storytime: Spectacular Spots

This free, interactive storytime is perfect for toddlers, introducing them to art through a playful picture book. The event, which runs from 10 to 11 a.m., offers both English and Spanish reading and will be followed by creative arts and crafts activities.

  • Date: Aug. 1
  • Location: 4th St and Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC

Reservoir Recess: Family Field Day

This outdoor field day, running from noon to 4 p.m., is designed as the perfect playdate. Featuring lawn games, live music performances, crafts and other interactive activities is great for young children.

  • Date: Aug. 1
  • Location: 10 Lower Service Court NW, Washington, DC

ELEMENTARY (5+)

National Mall

The National Mall is the ultimate free summer adventure for families with kids. Stretching over two miles, from the Lincoln Memorial to the U.S. Capitol, it's packed with world-class Smithsonian museums. Kids can run and play on the open lawns, splash in the reflecting pool's surroundings, and take in iconic monuments that spark real curiosity about American history. With everything free and within easy walking distance, it's one of the best family days you can have in the country.

  • Location: 1717 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC

Great Falls Park

Just 15 miles from DC, Great Falls Park is a stunning natural escape where the Potomac River crashes through a series of rapids and waterfalls — one of the most powerful whitewater stretches on the East Coast. Kids ages 6 and up will love exploring the rugged trails along the cliffs, spotting wildlife and taking in the overlook views. Older kids and teens can tackle longer hiking routes and learn about the historic Patowmack Canal. It's a perfect half-day trip that trades city sidewalks for fresh air and adventure.

  • Location: 9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA

TWEENS AND TEENS (10+)

The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a must-see for any DMV visit. The Tomb is guarded 24/7, rain or shine, by members of the 3rd Regiment of the U.S. Army — honoring the unidentified soldiers who gave their lives in service to the United States. The Tomb has been continuously guarded every minute of every day since 1937. July is a perfect time to visit, as from April through September the guard is changed every half hour — meaning you won't have to wait long to witness the precise, deeply respectful ritual. The cemetery is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. during this season. Admission to the cemetery is free, and the experience is one that resonates with visitors of all ages.

  • Location: Arlington National Cemetery, Section 33, 1 Memorial Ave., Arlington, VA

Jazz in the Garden

This summer's Jazz in the Garden series, "American Sounds," is a nod to the nation's 250th anniversary, with music spanning Appalachian and Americana, Creole jazz, Hill Country blues and contemporary jazz. Once inside, the concert has the feel of a neighborhood hangout that sits next to world-class art, with Pavilion Café pop-ups and bars serving sangria, beer and wine while blankets and picnic spreads take over the lawn. Best of all, admission is free, though passes are distributed through a weekly lottery that opens each Monday at 10 a.m.

  • Dates: Friday evenings through Aug. 14
  • Location: National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden, 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC

Movies on the Potomac

Families can lounge on the lawn and watch fan-favorite films on the waterfront. Running from July until September, this event is great for older kids, offering multiple genres and late-night showtimes.

  • Dates: July 2-September
  • Location: 150 National Plaza, National Harbor, MD

DMV Asian Night Market

This after-dark market is packed full of flavor, music, vendors and good vibes. Offering a variety of food and interactive activities, it's perfect for tweens and teens who want the freedom to wander and explore.

  • Date: July 25, 2026
  • Location: 7200 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA

IN THIS SECTION

  • 25 ways to celebrate America's 250 in the DMV — 30
  • The best bites are rolling your way — 35
  • Celebrate America all summer long — 36
  • Experience international adventures without leaving DC — 38
  • National Harbor's Kids Day returns for the summer — 40
  • Small-town charm and big family fun — 42
  • A sweet taste of the DMV — 44
  • Beat the summer heat — 46
  • DC Kids Calendar — 48