Let’s be honest—keeping kids entertained isn’t always easy. Especially when you’re juggling work, errands, school runs, and a never-ending laundry pile. You want to create memories, do something special with them, but some weekends just vanish before you even catch your breath.
Good news: Maryland is packed with genuinely fun, kid-friendly places that don’t require a five-hour road trip or an entire day’s planning. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, rainy day saviors, or just something different to shake up your routine, this list has you covered. Bonus? These spots are actually enjoyable for parents too.
So if you’re thinking, “What should we do this weekend?” keep reading.
Let the Kids Run Wild (Outside)
First up: sunshine. When the weather’s decent, outdoor space is gold. Maryland has a bunch of spots where kids can burn energy and you can breathe easy.
- Sandy Point State Park: Right on the Chesapeake Bay, this spot has a sandy beach, shallow water for wading, and shaded picnic tables. It’s a low-effort day trip that feels like a mini vacation.
- Great Falls (Maryland Side): Want views and trails that don’t feel like punishment? Great Falls offers just that. The Billy Goat Trail has some family-friendly sections that make kids feel like explorers without pushing them too hard.
- Brookside Gardens in Wheaton is pure calm. There’s space to roam, beautiful gardens, and even a butterfly exhibit in season. Great for strollers and snack breaks on a bench.
Learn Something (Without the Eye Rolls)
Not all educational outings are boring—promise. Maryland has some standout spots that sneak in learning while your kids think they’re just having fun.
- Port Discovery Children’s Museum in Baltimore is a hands-on haven. Climbing structures, water tables, pretend play zones—you name it. It’s chaos in the best possible way.
- Maryland Science Center is right nearby and great for slightly older kids. Dinosaurs, a planetarium, an IMAX theater… Plus, the grown-ups might actually learn something too.
- College Park Aviation Museum is a quieter option with some seriously cool planes. It’s small enough that you won’t lose a child (or your sanity), but still super engaging.
Seasonal Fun and Farm Days
If your family calendar revolves around pumpkin patches and strawberry picking, you’re in luck. Maryland’s local farms are loaded with activities.
- Butler’s Orchard in Germantown is a family favorite for a reason. Their pick-your-own fields rotate through the seasons, and there’s always something going on, from hayrides to festivals.
- Clark’s Elioak Farm in Ellicott City is a fairy tale brought to life. It’s built around the old Enchanted Forest amusement park, so there’s this cool nostalgic vibe mixed with petting zoos and pony rides.
- Keep an eye out for local festivals too—from summer food truck fests to fall harvest fairs. They’re perfect for low-pressure, go-with-the-flow kind of outings.
When It’s Raining (Or Everyone’s Just Cranky)
Let’s face it. Some days, the weather sucks. Or the mood does. That doesn’t mean you’re stuck at home with YouTube Kids blaring.
- Storyville Libraries in Baltimore County are like mini play worlds built into library branches. They’re calm, creative, and FREE. Great for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Trampoline parks like Sky Zone or Launch can be a total lifesaver. Let them bounce themselves tired while you sip a coffee in peace.
- Check out play cafés in your area. These parent-friendly spots combine indoor playgrounds with actual food and coffee that isn’t from a drive-thru.
Making Time for All This Is the Real Challenge
Let’s be real—even when you have a list of great ideas, actually getting out and doing them is another story. Between jam-packed calendars and everyday stress, it’s easy for plans to fall through.
That’s where support at home can make a real difference. Having an extra set of hands means less scrambling and more room for fun. For families looking for a reliable, flexible way to make that happen, hosting an au pair in Maryland can be a total game-changer.
It’s not about replacing you—it’s about sharing the load. When someone helps with pickups, homework, and the bedtime hustle, there’s just more space for the good stuff. Like impromptu outings. Or quiet moments that don’t feel rushed. That kind of support can turn a chaotic Saturday into something simple and sweet.
Simple Stuff That Still Works
Sometimes you don’t need an epic plan. You just need something doable.
- Try a scavenger hunt walk around your neighborhood. Make a quick list: something red, a squirrel, a leaf bigger than your hand. Kids love a mission.
- Pack snacks and take a bike ride on the Capital Crescent Trail or another nearby path. No pressure to go far. It’s the movement and novelty that counts.
- Mini golf or duckpin bowling is an underrated classic. It’s competitive (but in a fun way), and even little kids can get into it with some help.
You Deserve the Good Stuff Too
At the end of the day, these family outings aren’t about checking a box or posting cute photos. They’re about connection. About making space for joy in the middle of the chaos.
So whether you’re packing up for a full-day adventure or just heading down the street for mini golf and ice cream, give yourself credit. You’re showing up. You’re making memories.
And that’s what really counts.
