When the summer heat descends on Washington, DC, there are plenty of free public swimming pools that families can visit to cool down. But for those who live in the DC suburbs, it may seem like paying for a pricey summer membership is the only way to gain access to an outdoor swimming pool. We're here to assure you that is not the case. There are plenty of outdoor swimming pools near DC that offer a daily pool pass option for families who can't commit to a whole summer of swimming. From hotels with pools in DC that offer families a luxurious daycation to community swimming pools with lots of fun features for kids, these pools are all great places to spend a hot DC summer day.

For more ways to make a splash outdoors, check out our lists of 12 outdoor water parks for kids near DC and 17 sprinkler parks, spraygrounds, and splash pads near DC for kids. Stay cool this summer!

With so many free museums, amazing parks and playgrounds, and more free things to do in the Washington, DC area, families don't need to spend money to have fun. Those free activities also include a variety of great nature centers in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and DC. These nature centers allow kids to get up close to animals, learn about the natural world, and develop a love for the great outdoors.

Here are 11 free nature centers near DC to explore with kids. Many of them offer fun extras such as planetariums, playgrounds, gardens, and hiking trails. 

If you're looking for a casual adventure for your family but don’t want to drive a long way, head to the nearby town of Clifton, Virginia. This historic town, which has been around since the 1700s, is charming, picturesque, and small, with a population of less than 300. And there are plenty of things to do in CIifton, Virginia with kids, from delicious food to scenic hikes. 

Read on for our list of nine things to do in Clifton, Virginia with kids. And if you're looking for more fall family outings, check out our list of fall day trips near Washington, DC, our fall fun guide, and our Halloween events and activities guide. Enjoy!