Summer Activities

Summer Activities for Families in Arlington, VA

Near Shirlington, Fairlington, Arlington Ridge, Columbia Pike & Surrounding Areas

Looking for affordable family fun this summer? Here are some of the best free and low-cost activities near Shirlington and throughout Arlington.

Arlington Public Library Summer Reading Program

Cost: FREE

Kids, teens, and adults can participate in Arlington’s 2026 Summer Reading Challenge. Read for 30 days and earn:

• Free book
• Two free Washington Nationals tickets (while supplies last)
• Additional prizes and giveaways

Dates: June 1 – September 1, 2026Website: https://library.arlingtonva.us/for-readers/summer-reading/

Nearby Location: Shirlington Library 4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA 22206Source: Arlington Public Library Summer Reading Program. 

Lubber Run Summer Concert Series

Cost: FREE

One of Arlington’s most popular summer traditions featuring:

• Family-friendly music
• Bluegrass
• Jazz
• Soul
• Orchestra performances
• Outdoor amphitheater setting

Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic.

Dates: June–August 2026

Website: https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Programs/Arts/Programs/Lubber-Run

Location: Lubber Run Amphitheater 200 N Columbus St Arlington, VA 22203

Source: Arlington County Arts.   

Four-Mile Run Trail Adventure

Cost: FREE

Perfect for:

• Bikes
• Scooters
• Walks
• Strollers
• Family scavenger hunts

The trail runs directly through the Shirlington area and connects to other Arlington trail systems.

Trail Map: https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Programs/Transportation/WalkBike

Plane Watching at Gravelly Point 

Cost: FREE

One of the most exciting free activities for kids in the DC area.Watch commercial jets land directly overhead every few minutes.

Location: Gravelly Point Park George Washington Memorial Parkway Arlington, VA

Website: https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/gravelly-point.htm

Playground Hop Challenge

Cost: FREE

Create a summer bucket list and visit a new playground each week.

Recommended Parks Near Shirlington

Jennie Dean Park

3630 S 27th St Arlington, VA

Fairlington Park

3308 S Stafford St Arlington, VA

Virginia Highlands Park

1600 S Hayes St Arlington, VA

Lacey Woods Park

1200 N George Mason Dr Arlington, VA

Most parks include:

• Modern playgrounds
• Basketball courts
• Open fields
• Picnic areas

Long Branch Nature Center

Cost: FREE

Features:

• Nature exhibits
• Animal displays
• Trails
• Family programs

Website: https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Locations/Nature-Centers/Long-Branch

Location: 625 S Carlin Springs Rd Arlington, VA

Netherlands Carillon Concerts

Cost: FREE

Outdoor concerts overlooking Washington, DC.

Bring:

• Picnic blanket
• Snacks
• Lawn chairs

Website: https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/netherlands-carillon.htm

Location: Arlington Ridge Park Arlington, VACommunity event listings continue to feature free summer Carillon concerts and family events.

Smithsonian Museums Day Trip

Cost: FREE

All Smithsonian museums offer free admission.

Best options for families:

• National Museum of Natural History
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Museum of American History

Website: https://www.si.edu

Metro Accessible: Yes

Smithsonian National Zoo

Cost: FREE Admission

See:

• Giant pandas
• Lions
• Elephants
• Reptile Discovery Center

Website: https://nationalzoo.si.edu

Parking: Paid

Admission: Free 

Shirlington Summer Treat Walk

Cost: $3–10 per person

Family favorite summer evening idea:

• Grab ice cream
• Walk through Shirlington Village
• Visit the fountain plaza
• Let kids explore the pedestrian-friendly streets

Suggested Budget: $15–30 per family

Summer Movie Night at Home + Local Treats

●      Library movie checkout

●      Pizza or snacks

●      Ice cream from Shirlington   

Cost: $5–15

Affordable family night