Sometimes you just want to shake things up when it comes to family entertainment. Luckily, there are plenty of trending and out-of-the-box activities throughout the DC area that allow you to do just that. Whether you want to try tufting, make candles or slime, or pretend you're on a game show, DC has some unique and super cool places to check out.

Here are 19 trending and out-of-the-box activities for kids and families in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. This list includes crafty experiences, fitness and sports activities, and other fun things to do when your family needs to break out of a rut. Many of them are perfect for older kids, so even tweens and teens will find them cool.

For more activities that get older kids out of the house and away from their screens, check out our lists of teen birthday party ideas in DC and 21 fun things to do with teens and tweens in DC.

The natural beauty of this Southeast Houston spot makes for an amazing day out with the kids.

Enjoying three days in Los Angeles with kids on a budget—following an itinerary focusing on low-cost and free things to do—is easier than you might think. A solid to-do list lets you enjoy the best of the city while incorporating the relaxing, low-pressure time kids need. Achieving balance, and limiting your ambition if the situation calls for it, are the keys to having a wonderful time with your family in LA—without spending a bundle. 

And don’t recoil when you hear the word “itinerary.” It doesn’t have to mean running yourself and your family ragged, hitting every hot spot in this sprawling city, driving everyone crazy with an attempt to do it all. Relax. This three-day itinerary—let’s just call it a vacation plan instead—hits its share of iconic stops like the Santa Monica Pier and the La Brea Tar Pits but also builds in quieter destinations, plenty of downtime, and the best local restaurants for kids.

For more things to do in Los Angeles with kids on a budget, discover free museums and free museum days, bookmark this list of 100 free things to do in Los Angeles with kids, and check out our Guide to Free Things To Do in Los Angeles with Kids. 

Looking for the best swimming pools in Westchester and the Hudson Valley? Here are our picks to add to your list.

Nothing says summer like a day at the pool, and there's no shortage of spots in Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley to take a dip. Many have concession stands and places to picnic, as well as playgrounds, hiking trails, mini golf, and other activities worthy of a summer day trip. We've rounded up 16 favorite family-friendly pools in the region. Some of these—particularly the Westchester pools—require county residency, so take note before heading out.

For more summer fun, be sure to check out our Ultimate Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

New Jersey has tons of fun places to visit with kids, and new attractions open all the time. But if you're stuck in a rut with your typical go-to places, we've got some new, trendy places to try that NJ kids are sure to love. 

From a Japanese clawcade to the newest and hottest dinosaur attraction in New Jersey, read on to learn about some new and unique activities for NJ kids.

For more fun ideas, check out our Guide to Indoor Play for New Jersey Kids, which includes our story on NJ's top indoor play spaces. 

Visiting the Top of the Rock observation deck is on many tourists' must-do lists, but even locals should put it on their bucket lists. Even if you feel like you've already been there, seen that view, now is a good time to revisit this classic NYC attraction, which has added a pair of thrilling attractions in the past couple of years.

While city views are plentiful at NYC's five observation decks, each presents its own unique experience and perspective, including Top of the Rock. Here's what you can expect to see and do during your visit to the Top of the Rock observation deck, plus more things to do in the action-packed Rockefeller Center campus it calls home, whether you visit during the twinkling holiday season or at another time of year.

If the idea of camping with kids sounds fun, but the thought of sleeping on the cold ground in a tent doesn’t, glamping might be your perfect middle ground.

Glamping gives families the best of both worlds: the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors, paired with the comforts of home. We're talking cozy beds, private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and even electricity—all tucked inside stylish tents, yurts, cabins, or treehouses. It’s camping, upgraded.

Ready to plan your next nature escape? Below, you'll find 7 amazing glamping spots within easy reach of Philadelphia, each packed with charm, adventure, and kid-approved fun.

Looking to travel a little farther? Check out our roundup of Best Glamping Spots in the US. And don't miss our Camping Travel Guide for the best campgrounds across the country plus camping tips, activities, and gear.

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