ML Interest Tag: pentagon

Rink Up! 10 of the Best Places to Ice Skate

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

Get out on the ice this holiday season to learn a new skill or show off your expertise at these Washington, DC ice skating rinks

There are so many ways to enjoy the winter weather and holiday season locally, from seeking out festive light displays in Washington DC to enjoying the snowfall by playing at the region’s best snowtubing resorts and parks. But one of our absolute favorite winter activities is ice skating at rinks that either pop up seasonally or stick around year round. These spots often have other fun features such as amazing light displays, holiday shopping for unique gifts, and snowy play spaces for kids. Are you new to skating and nervous to hit the ice? Fortunately, these rinks are ready to accommodate all skill levels. 

1. Enchant Christmas

The Enchant forest is a breathtaking trail through millions of shimmery holiday lights on ice. After you finish gliding through the ice trail, take the kids to meet Santa, check out the giant light maze, and play in the kids' play place. For parents, end the adventure with a little shopping in the Christmas market. They also have cubbies available for storage. And if parents aren't skating, they can hang out at the nearby bar and still keep an eye on the kiddos. 

Dates: Nov. 25-Jan. 1

1500 S Capitol St. SE
Washington, DC
Online: enchantchristmas.com


2. The Sculpture Garden Ice Rink

This DC ice skating rink boasts the "best backdrop." Ice skate among the grand architecture of national museums and contemporary large-scale sculptures in the Sculpture Garden Ice Rink. Through March 5, reserve your ticket that grants you two 45-minute skate sessions. When you've had your fill of icy temperatures and skating, head to the Pavilion Cafe for a warm drink, bowl of soup, or other tasty treat. There are also a variety of skate lessons to choose from for those less experienced. 

Dates: Nov. 26-March 5

7th St. and Constitution Ave. NW
Washington, DC
Online: pavilioncafe.com

3. Washington Harbour Ice Rink

This winter, Washington Harbour Ice Rink morphs from fountain to ice skating rink until mid-March. Twirl and swirl in hour-and-a-half increments before the rink is closed for a quick cleaning and refresh before the next session. Rent a penguin for little skaters who aren't yet steady on their blades. 

Dates: Nov. 18-March 12

3000-3050 K St. NW
Washington, DC 
Online: thewashingtonharbour.com

4. Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run

Cameron Run Regional Park has transformed itself into a magical winter village, complete with light displays, fire pits, a market filled with holiday treats, and an ice skating rink. Through Jan. 1, admission includes both the village and one hour of skating. From Jan. 7 through Feb. 26, only the ice rink will remain and it will be open on weekends and holidays only. While admission to the village only can be purchased at the door, skating tickets must be purchased online in advance. Skating tickets are non-refundable but can be changed to another date and time before your scheduled session. 

Dates: Nov. 18-Feb. 26

4001 Eisenhower Ave.
Alexandria, VA 
Online: novaparks.com

5. Color Burst Ice Rink

The Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District makes a great family-friendly outing. Admission is limited so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. Various celebrations and themed events are planned for the season, in addition to music and pop-up food and beverage. If you're still hungry, give one of the nearby restaurants a try.

Insider Tip: Season passes are available for $99. 

Dates: Nov. 18-Feb. 28

6000 Merriweather Dr.
Columbia, MD
Online: merriweatherdistrict.com

6. Columbia Ice Rink

You can enjoy public sessions and lessons at this DC area ice skating rink where reservations are not required. Check the calendar for times and dates of public skate sessions, along with special event skates such as Teen Night and Skate Party. 

Insider Tip: CA Fit&Play, Play, 5Day Golf&Play, and Golf Fit&Play members skate free during public sessions. The skate rental fee is $4.25 for everyone. 

Dates: Public skating sessions are daily, year-round (minus July)

5876 Thunder Hill Rd.
Columbia, MD
Online: columbiaassociation.org

 

7. Reston Town Center Ice Rink

This shopping and dining area turns its open-air pavilion into an ice rink every winter. The skate shop has more than 500 pairs of skates in figure skating and hockey styles, plus double-bladed, flat-edge skates for beginners. You can also reserve private ice time for your parties of up to 100 guests.

Insider Tip: All sales are nonrefundable but you can reschedule your session as long as you email them prior to your scheduled session time. 

Dates: Nov. 17-March 12

1818 Discovery St.
Reston, VA 
Online: restontowncenter.com

8. Silver Spring Ice Skating at Veterans Plaza

Enjoy some loops around a rink that sits in the middle of a shopping and dining center. You must purchase your ticket before your arrival; reservations can be made two weeks in advance. Reservations are guaranteed up to 10 minutes after your scheduled skate time. You'll get to be on the ice for an hour and 20 minutes.

Dates: Now through the last week in March

8523 Fenton St.
Silver Spring, MD
Online: silverspringiceskating.com


9. Rockville Town Square Ice Rink

At 7,200 square feet, this outdoor rink is said to be the biggest between Baltimore and Washington. Rockville Town Square has shops, restaurants, and even a spa (just saying) to peruse after you hang up your blades. Reservations are required and can be made up to two weeks ahead of time. 

Dates: Now through mid-March

131 Gibbs St.
Rockville, MD
Online: rockvilleiceskating.com

10. Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Skating

This ice skating rink in the Washington DC area is a whopping 6,840 square feet—the largest outdoor rink in Northern Virginia and the second largest in the state. Little ones can grab a penguin aide, and youth skating and hockey lessons are available. Reservations are required and can be made up to two weeks in advance.

Dates: Now through mid-March

1201 S Joyce St.
Arlington, VA
Online: pentagonrowskating.com

 

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The Best Places to Get Kids’ Ears Pierced in DC

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

Buying earrings is easy, but knowing where to get your child’s ears pierced can be downright intimidating. We’ve rounded up the best children’s ear piercing places—from pediatric ear piercing doctors to kid-friendly tattoo parlors—to help you make an informed decision. If you’ve worked up the nerve to face the ear gun, read on for the best places to go in the DMV. 

A Quick Trip to the Doctor

Monstera via Pexels

Start with your own pediatrician as many will perform piercings for patients. If yours doesn’t offer ear piercing, try Potomac Pediatrics in Rockville The cost is $95 and includes a pair of 24 karat gold stud earrings and the option to use numbing cream. DC Derm Docs, a local dermatologist specializing in cosmetic and general medical dermatology,offers ear piercing to patients of all ages using a brand of earrings only available to medical professionals. They provide Blomdahl earrings and offer both gold and silver studs which are available with or without a crystal. The posts themselves are Titanium, which guarantees protection from nickel allergies. Blomdahl earrings are available exclusively to physicians.Capitol Medical Group has ear piercing available on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday with Dr. Markovic.  The piercing includes a pair of 24 karat gold plated or stainless steel stud earrings. Tyson Pediatrics in McLean, VA also offer ear piercing.

Potomac Pediatrics
15204 Omega Dr.
Rockville, MD
Online: potomacpediatrics.com

DC Derm Docs
1828 L St. NW
Farragut North
202-822-9591
Online: dc-dermdocs.com

Capitol Medical Group
8401 Connecticut Ave. Suite 201
Chevy Chase, MD
301-907-3960
Online: capitolmedicalgroup.com

Tyson Corner Pediatrics
8365 Greensboro Dr. Suite A
McLean, VA
703-356-4444
Online: tysonscornerpediatrics.com

Chesapeake Pediatrics
121 Old Solomons Island Rd.
Annapolis MD
410-224-3663
Online: chesapeakepediatrics.com

 

Get Poked at a Parlor

Jadell Films

Okay, so most parents aren’t too excited about taking their kids to a piercing parlor but many can actually provide a clean, friendly, safe place for ear piercing. Check out Craig Pokes U in Arlington where children are welcome with an accompanying parent or legal guardian. They are all licensed piercing professionals and make you feel comfortable. Brilliance Piercing in Vienna, pierces children ages 7-12, by appointment, to make sure there is plenty of time to ask questions and thoroughly explain the entire process.  You are even encouraged to visit the studio any time to ask questions or meet their piercers.  

Craig Pokes U
4818 Lee Hwy.
Arlington, VA
703-268-6583
Online: craigpokesu.com

Brilliance Piercing
421 Church St. NE Suite C
Vienna, VA
703-261-6130
Online: brilliancepiercing.com

Mr. B's Tattoos
7554 Bel Air Rd.
Baltimore, MD
410-668-3567
Online: mrbstattoo.com

 

Get the Spa Treatment

Guiomar Ochoa

For a more glitzy experience for your pink loving, tutu wearing girly-girl, check out Sweet& Sassy, a little girl’s spa and salon in Leesburg. Earrings and a little kit to commemorate the event are included in the price of piercing. Belezza Lase in Fairfax will even give your little princess a tiara, wand and “brave kid” certificate. They also have  tons of different earrings to choose from.

Sweet & Sassy
1601 Village Market Blvd. SE
Leesburg, VA
703-552-8390
Online: sweetandsassy.com

Belezza Lase
4015 Chain Bridge Rd. Suite L
Fairfax, VA
703-273-5273
Online: bellezalase.com

Get Pierced at a Pagoda

Little girl with pierced ears smiling
Skyler Ewing via Pexels

The usual suspects, Claire’s and Piercing Pagoda, are where most kids in the DMV go to get their ears pierced. Probably since one or the other is located at just about every local mall. Drop-ins are welcome and both are well set up to manage the excitement and anticipation of children’s ear piercing. Today’s Cargo, a jewelry store in Old Town Alexandria, offers ear piercing to 7 year olds and up. Appointments are accepted only during weekdays. Their experienced piercer uses the Inverness system and only 14K gold. 

Today’s Cargo
1102 King St.
Alexandria, VA.
703-836-6866
Online: todayscargo.com

Claire’s
Union Station, Pentagon City, Tysons Corner, National Harbor
Online: claires.com

Piercing Pagoda
Lakeforest Mall, Potomac Mills, Montgomery Mall
Online: pagoda.com

—Meghan Yudes Meyers, Guiomar Ochoa and Tricia Mirchandani

featured photo: Medical Ear Piercing Clinics via Yelp

RELATED STORIES:

Picture Perfect! 11 Hair Salons for Kids in DC

Mani Power: The Best Kid-Friendly Nail Salons Around D.C.

 

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Warm Welcome: 7 Places to Hang Out Fireside

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

When finger-freezing temperatures come to town, it’s a struggle to will ourselves out into the wintery mix (especially when you have to wrestle the youngest members of your family in and out of puffy coats). Fortunately, these cozy gems offer an inviting space to warm up your digits and enjoy some family time fireside.

Photo: Pentagon Row

Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Skating Plaza
When the temperature drops, you can still enjoy outdoor activities (like skating on Northern Virginia’s largest outdoor skating rink) when you have the promise of flickering flames to warm up to; the outdoor lounge features a dual-sided stone fireplace for toasty skating brakes!

1201 S Joyce St., Arlington, VA
703-418-6666
Online: pentagonrowskating.com

Ritz-Carlton Georgetown
If the wood-burning fireplace in the Ritz-Carlton brings on a hankering for s’mores, you’re in luck! Every evening from 6:30 pm to 7 pm the hotel offers complimentary chocolate smothered marshmallows sandwiched in a graham cracker. Mmmm!

3100 South St., NW, Georgetown
202-912-4100
Online: ritzcarlton.com

Redstone American Grill
After a long day at National Harbor–riding the carousel, building sand castles, or paddleboating on the Potomac–gather your crew around one of the year-round firepits at this rugged restaurant. From flatbreads and burgers to steak and soup, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s tastebuds.

155 National Plaza, National Harbor
301-839-3330
Online: redstonegrill.com

Hotel Tabard Inn
On Saturdays and Sundays this Dupont Circle hotel serves some of the best donuts D.C. has to offer. Enjoy your fried doughnut by the roaring fire in the English-inspired lounge. The Inn does not have a children’s menu per say, but this family-friendly establishment will create pint-sized portions for smaller guests.

1739 N St., NW, Dupont Circle
202-785-1277
Online: tabardinn.com

Praline Bakery and Bistro
Flakey croissants and gooey tarts taste better when they are enjoyed by the warmth of a fire! This Bethesda-based bakery offers authentic French cuisine and sweets (and if you’re lucky, you can nab a table by their fireplace).

4611 Sangamore Rd., Bethesda, MD
301-229-8180
Online: praline-bakery.com

Clyde’s Willow Creek Farm
Historic barns and stone buildings lend a ski lodge-like atmosphere to this American restaurant. The expansive property boasts seven fireplaces–one in each of its dining rooms–for a guaranteed fireside meal.

42920 Broadlands Blvd. (Broadlands, Va)
571-209-1200
Online: clydes.com/willow

Barrel Oak Winery
This kid-friendly winery welcomes families to enjoy a board game or a good book by their fire. Every Friday night they feature family-friendly movies (with free popcorn) in the loft. Un-”wined” while the kids enjoy a flick!

3623 Grove Ln., Delaplane, VA
540-364-6402
Online: barreloak.com

Do you have a favorite fireplace spot? Tell us where we can find it in the comments below. 

–Ayren Jackson-Cannady and Meghan Meyers

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Neighborhood Guide: All Day in Arlington

by rtstephaniekanowitz

Just a short drive over the bridge – or a few bridges, depending on where you’re headed – sits Arlington, Va. Founded in 1801, Arlington has grown into a bustling urban area in its own right. With most of the action huddled around Metro stops on the Blue and Orange lines, some of the most densely packed and walkable areas are in the Ballston-Clarendon-Rosslyn corridor. Its 25.98 square miles are full of family-friendly activities, educational experiences and history. Here are some not to miss.

Photo: Sean O’Neill via Flickr

For the outdoorsy types
Mix a little history with your nature by walking through Arlington National Cemetery, known as the nation’s “most hallowed ground.” Open year-round, it’s the final resting place for 400,000 people. Find the graves of soldiers from as far back as the Civil War, the gravesites of President and Mrs. Kennedy, and more than 20 memorials. Stop at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where volunteer sentinels of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment stand guard and change every hour in a somber ceremony. Arlington House, former home of Robert E. Lee, commander of the Confederate States Army, is also on cemetery grounds and open for tours. For something lighter and daresay more thrilling, head to Gravelly Point along the George Washington Memorial Parkway to watch the planes take off and land at Reagan National Airport, or do a memorial tour, stopping at the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, Marine Corps War Memorial and U.S. Air Force Memorial.

Photo: Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce

Play and learn
History isn’t the only lesson kiddos can learn in Arlington. They can study the stars at the David M. Brown Planetarium, which offers weekend programs including the “Magic Tree House Space Mission” on Sundays. Or they can learn to play hockey like the pros at Kettler Capitals Iceplex, home of the Washington Capitals Practice Facility. Camps, youth leagues and classes are available. It’s located at the Ballston Common Mall, which is being transformed as you read into Ballston Quarter, a 589,000-square foot walkable urban village with one of the largest food halls in D.C., a bowling alley and shops. 

Photo: Boccato Gelato

 Shop and eat
Head down Wilson Boulevard to Clarendon and take in a story time at Kinder Haus Toys and grab a sweet treat nearby at Boccato Gelato and Espresso. If the kids are too antsy for sitting, sign them up for a class at JW Tumbles, which has movement options for littles ages four months to nine years, plus a separate open play area. Then stop at Pie-tanza in the same strip mall for Neapolitan-style pizza. Play those carbs away at one of Arlington’s 158 parks. The recently renovated 4-acre Quincy Park has six tennis courts, a basketball court, a sand volleyball court and tons of offbeat playground equipment, while Upton Hill Regional Park offers the Ocean Dunes Waterpark, mini golf, batting cages and walking trails.

What are your favorite Arlington hot spots? Tell us in the comments.

—Stephanie Kanowitz

 

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Now Open: An Eatery for Cookie Dough Lovers

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Of course you know the risky business involved with eating raw cookie dough (hello, bacteria from uncooked eggs!), but it’s sososo hard to resist…even just a tiny taste. Now, thanks to the opening of Sophie’s Dough, a gourmet edible cookie dough parlor in the Pentagon City Fashion Centre, you can have your double chocolate chip dough and eat it too!

Photo: Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Who’s genius idea was this?
Sophia Fellers, owner of Sophie’s Dough, always thought you should be able to enjoy cookie dough without the worry of getting sick. Touché. So, she tested and perfected a handful of recipes, and used her professional experience and Business degrees from George Mason University to open the first edible cookie dough shop in Northern Virginia and D.C. (it should be noted that there are a couple of cookie dough caterers and pop up shops in town, but Sophie’s is the first brick and mortar). Bonus points for being in a mall–for when carb loaded kids need to walk off some of that dough power before heading home.

Photo: Sophie’s Dough

What’s in the dough?
Sophie’s uses high quality ingredients to make dough from scratch daily at the shop. They use organic milk and brown sugar, heat treated flour (to kill bacteria) and NO eggs whatsoever. You and your family can confidently eat a little or a lot. The most popular flavors among cookie dough lovers of all ages are: Classic Cookie, Birthday Cake and Cookie Monster. You can get your dough in a variety of ways: scoops, sandwiches and milkshakes (yes, people). You can add a scoop of ice cream to your cookie dough or additional toppings. Scoops come in one, two and three. A single scoop is a good kid size serving, but if it can’t be eaten in one sitting, the dough stays delish for up to a week in the refrigerator.

Photo: Sophie’s Dough

Need a break from the sheet cake standby for the next party?
This sweet spot offers larger quantity special orders. One day notice is required, but you can order and pick up a fresh quart (approximately 10 servings) for $30 of whatever flavor you choose. Or, you can order a box of one dozen single scoops ( mix and match) $40.

Photo: Sophie’s Dough

What about a party for one?
For those times you just need to enjoy your cookie dough solo…while binge watching something on Netflix, Sophie’s also delivers scoops via Postmates. Drops mic.

Sophie’s Dough

1100 S Hayes St. (Arlington, Va)
Online: sophiesdough.com

Have you tried Sophie’s Dough yet? Share your thoughts in the comments. 

—Ayren Jackson-Cannady

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Family of Five Does Washington D.C. in One Day

By Julie Hoag

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Photo: Julie Hoag

Our family of five did Washington, D.C. in just one day. On this trip our three boys were the ages of three to nine so we researched how we could do a day in this city with young kids. A large amount of walking was not going to be doable with a three-year old and we had no stroller along to plop him in. Our plan worked out perfectly and we saw so much of the great city in our only day there.

We had just enjoyed a few days at a rented beach house on the OBX, the Outerbanks of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina and our flight home was to leave out of D.C. so we scheduled in an extra day to tour the city before our flight.

The smartest choice we made for in D.C. was our purchase of tour bus tickets which allowed us to hop on and off a bus from a designated bus stop. This enabled us to hop on and get off buses as they ran at regular intervals along a specified route. With young kids this was a total win because in between the sights and monuments they could rest on the bus, plus we didn’t have to drive and park in a busy city.

The open-air bus was fun for the kids and we saw so many amazing statues, monuments, and buildings just from our top of the bus view. The bus was perfect for our family with little kids because even if we opted out of a stop, we were still able to see the sight from our seats on top of the bus. The beauty of the bus line was that we could visit the monuments at our own pace and just head back to the bus stop to wait for the next bus to come when we were done.

The stone monuments and statues were gorgeous and amazing. The kids didn’t always appreciate what they stood for, but they were awesome to behold. We visited the Washington Monument, the Thomas Jefferson Monument, and the White House. As we walked to the White House we saw amazing buildings like the Department of the Treasury and many more elaborate buildings and gorgeous manicured gardens.

The stop the kids loved best was at The Smithsonian Institution National Air and Space Museum. We spent several hours in this museum as this museum held the kids’ interest. They had so much fun seeing all the different types of aircraft, planes, and displays. The astronaut displays were the most exciting to my kids as were the spacecraft. As a mom, I loved that they had some hands-on components to the displays as well for the kids to interact with.

As we continued with our one day tour of D.C., we stopped in at the Abraham Lincoln Memorial which is just massive and awe-inspiring to behold. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was another stop we included in our tour. We walked the wall and told the kids about the lost lives and how the monument was created to honor those people. We also drove through the Arlington Cemetery, though we declined getting out at that stop because with young kids driving through was sufficient.

Our bus also drove past the Pentagon, though there were regulations about visiting so we simply drove past and viewed it from the highway. Our visit happened after the 911 attack so we understood the regulations regarding visiting. The repaired area was visible due to the different brick color.

Our boys wanted to see a Subway. We live in the Midwest so they had never seen a real subway system before. Even though we didn’t ride the subway while we were in D.C., we asked the subway attendant if we could just go down into the tunnels to show our boys what it looked like below ground. He allowed us, but did escort us to go take a quick sneak peak of the trains. Our kids loved seeing the trains and all the people. This gave them exposure to something they had never seen before as trains and people zoomed around beneath the city streets they had just walked on.

The many different types of cultures and people present in the city was also a great experience for our kids. They saw many people from different countries and heard many different languages being spoken. Coming from the Midwest spending even just a day in this city was a great lesson in diversity for our kids.

Washington D.C. is a beautiful city with the amazing architecture, statues, fountains, and gorgeous landscapes. Some day when the kids are older we will go again and stay longer to take in more of the sights. We were impressed with how much we saw in just one day as a family of five with young kids in this grand city. It was a perfect addition to our east coast trip.

Julie Hoag is a wife and mother of three boys. She enjoys writing about motherhood, family, kids, travel, faith, and recipes. She loves spending time with her family, two dogs, and two guinea pigs. Her favorite past time is watching her kids' sports games.

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15 Signs You’re an Arlington Parent

by rttriciamirchandani

It regularly makes the lists of top places to live, particularly when living involves kids. And if you’re a parent who spends the day chasing your kids around Arlington, you know why. From picturesque parks to exciting summer camps to a plethora of Farmers’ Markets, Arlington has it all (and then some!). Here are 15 signs you’ve been wooed by the charms of Arlington.

1. When you ask your kids if they want to go to the park they (rightfully) ask “Which one?” (Hayes? Quincy? Alcova Heights? Virginia Highlands?)

2. The gift table at every kid’s birthday party you’ve ever been to has featured at least one gift wrapped in Barstons Child’s Play fish wrapping paper.

3. You know that MONA isn’t just one Arlington mom, it’s many! (It stands for Mothers of North Arlington)

 

4. A sunny Friday morning sends you to the grass in Clarendon to dance along with Mr. Knick Knack.

5.The director of the daycare or preschool down the street knew you were expecting before your own parents did.

6.Your kids spend the summer doing everything from dancing to horseback riding to playing Minecraft or Legos—at summer camp!

7. You mark the date on your calendar. You sit at your computer at 7:45am. You steadily click ‘refresh’ until 8 am. And then you click like crazy to get those swim lessons!

8. The same daycare or preschool director from #4 offered your child a spot… the day after your child started Kindergarten.

9. When you tell your kids you’re all going to the Farmers’ Market they (rightfully) ask “Which one?” (Is it Ballston? Westover? Crystal City? Courthouse?)

10. You still have tickets somewhere in your house from last year’s Arlington County Fair.

11. Pentagon doesn’t refer to a shape, or a massive government building. It’s where you go for the mall (Pentagon City Mall) and the ice-skating rink.

12.The Smithsonian museums are so close, but sometimes the thought of getting your kids on the metro to get there makes them feel so far away.

13. Saying ‘Lost Dog’ to your kids makes them happy, not sad. (It’s all about the pizza. And the big dog right inside the door!)

14. You eat regularly at Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande and Pietanza purely because of the free dough balls (though the food is pretty good too!).

15. After exchanging names with the new parent you met at the park you both simultaneously ask, “Which elementary school do you go to?”

Did we forget something? Tell us in the comments section below. 

—Tricia Mirchandani

Photos: Mr. Knick Knack via Facebook, Lost Dog Cafe via Facebook, Arlington County Fair via Facebook, Mary Kate M via Yelp

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Nationals Park (!!!) and Other Top Spots for Nursing Mamas

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Breastfeeding? Good for you! A little shy about leaving the house for fear you’ll have to feed baby in public? You’re not alone. But you don’t have to hunker down at home! The DMV has some very nursing-friendly spots. Sure, according to the law you are allowed to nurse your baby anywhere you please, but many nursing moms—especially first-timers—feel the need for a little privacy. And by privacy, we don’t mean inside the stall of a dirty public restroom! Read on, we’ve identified the DMV’s best nursing spots.

Photo: Lansinoh

Nats Park
The Washington Nationals and Lansinoh Laboratories (they make the popular lanolin ointment and just so happen to be based in Alexandria, Va) teamed up to create this super chill lounge just for nursing moms, babies, and tots. The lounge comes with comfortable chairs for mamas, diaper changing stations, a play area for little ones, and—of course—TVs to keep track of the boys in red. Seriously, this dugout is so comfortable you might not want to leave.

Nationals Park
1500 S. Capitol St., SE (Navy Yard)
Online: lansinoh.com

Photo: OnCloudMom via Flickr

Women’s Lounge at Nordstrom (Pentagon City Mall)
Ask any experienced nursing mom to name the best public place to nurse your baby, and she’ll most likely say the Women’s Lounge at Nordstrom. Oh, if only every public space had a women’s lounge like Nordstrom’s! It’s quiet, large, comfortable, and there’s a room designated just for nursing. Sit back, relax, take your time. You could even take a nap. It’s that nice!

Pentagon City Mall
1100 South Hayes St. (Arlington, Va)
Online: nordstrom.com

The National Gallery of Art
It’s only fitting that you should feel comfortable nursing your baby while surrounded by stunning works of art, many of which glorify the mother and child. While there is no designated nursing spot at the gallery, there are plenty of quiet benches throughout the museum. You will find that the security guards and museum staff are all well aware of your legal right to nurse in public and willing to go the extra mile to make you feel comfortable doing so.

6th and Constitution Aves., NW (National Mall)
Online: nga.gov

Photo: grdncity1980 via Flickr

Sculpture Garden at National Gallery of Art
If a bench inside the museum is still a little too public for you, step outside and make your way to NGA’s Sculpture Garden where you’ll find quiet alcoves and cubbies where you can nestle in practically undetected. And you’ll be surrounded by beautiful flora and unique modern sculptures.

6th and Constitution Aves., NW (National Mall)
Online: nga.gov

Baby Gap, Babies R Us, BuyBuy Baby
Yes, of course, stores with “baby” in the name should have designated nursing areas, and all of these offer a Mother’s Room.” They aren’t always quiet, clean or un-crowded, but when you’re shopping and you hear that “I’m hungry!” cry, you’ll be able to respond without a hitch.

Locations across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia

Photo: National Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center via Flickr

Air and Space Museum–Udvar-Hazy Center
This companion museum to D.C.’s downtown location features some of the more gigantic air and space exhibits, such as the space shuttle Discovery. It’s also newer and therefore offers “baby care” rooms with padded benches for nursing. It’s a great place if you like complete privacy for nursing. You can even lock the door!

14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy. (Chantilly, Va)
Online: airandspace.si.edu

Potomac Mills Mall
If you’re going to a mall that doesn’t have a Nordstrom, then it’s helpful to know that many malls have family restrooms, which are generally large enough to accommodate strollers and babies and toddlers all at the same time. At Potomac Mills Mall several of the family restrooms also feature a separate lounge area with a couch. It’s not designated specifically for nursing mothers, but that’s mostly what you’ll find there.

2700 Potomac Mills Cir. (Woodbridge, Va)
Online: simon.com/mall/potomac-mills

Photo: paulidin via Flickr

Austin Grill
Sometimes all you need is a seat (that’s not a toilet seat), and many nursing moms give Austin Grill the thumbs up for spacious bathrooms with fairly comfortable benches.

Locations across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia

The D.C. Public Library
We all know that having small children means you spend a lot of time at your local library. Here you’ll find music and story programs, playrooms with toys and crayons, and of course books, books and more books (that you can borrow for free!). You’ll also find a nursing-friendly attitude and plenty of chairs, benches, and couches tucked away in quiet corners where you can relax and nurse your baby undisturbed. Most libraries also have private rooms you can slip into for a few moments if you need to.

Various locations
Online: dclibrary.org

Do you know of any other great museums, stores, restaurants, or parks for nursing moms? Tell us in the Comments section below. 

—Jamy Bond and Ayren Jackson-Cannady

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On Your Marks! The District’s Coolest Kid-Friendly Fall Fun Runs

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

With kids, most days feel like a marathon. Why not channel all that family energy into a meaningful race with a clear finish line? D.C. has some awesome kid-friendly fall fun runs that just might turn you and your youngsters into high performing track stars. Whether you’re looking to pound the pavement with serious speed while your kids cheer you on from the sidelines, or they want to join in for a short but sweet stroll from start to finish, there’s something here for everyone.

The Biggest Loser Run Walk Race (5k/10k/1 Mile Kids Fun Run)
Designed to be non-intimidating and full of fun, the Biggest Loser Run Walk Race series is an effort to challenge America to get off the couch, hit the pavement and get fit. The 1- Mile Kids Fun Run is for ages 14 and under and proceeds go to benefit Kids Fit Foundation, which features programs and events designed to help kids reach their fitness goals and celebrate their healthy lifestyle achievements with family and friends. Race participants score a commemorative Biggest Loser Run Walk shirt, drawstring backpack, free race photos, awards, finish line refreshments, live entertainment, and special discounts on Six Flags park admission, so you can keep those endorphins pumping with post-racing roller coaster rides.

When: Sept. 28, 7:30 am
Six Flags of America
13710 Central Ave. (Bowie, Md)
Online: biggestloserrunwalk.com

Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon (6k and Kids 1 Mile Fun Run)
With a course from Mt. Vernon Estates to the National Harbor, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon is one of the most scenic courses you can run in the D.C. area. Do the entire half marathon or a 6k, or simply bring the kids and stick to the 1 mile kids course, which begins at the National Harbor and is un-timed. All participants receive a t-shirt, racenumber and refreshments. And if the race isn’t fun enough, the finish line festival will have the entire family entertained with a beer garden, live music from the Darby Brother’s Band, food and more.

When: Oct. 5, 7 am
Mt. Vernon Estates (Alexandria, Va) to National Harbor, Md
Online: wilsonbridgehalf.com

Marine Corps Marathon (Kids Run)
Fall just wouldn’t feel like fall without the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM), a popular northern Virginia staple. The MCM Kids Run is held the day before the MCM in the Pentagon’s north parking lot. Three thousand kids ages 5–12 are expected to participate in this one-mile run. The event takes place in six, half-hour waves that begin at 9:30 am and run until noon. Post race, chillax with music, entertainment, and a host of other fun activities.

When: Oct. 25, 9:30 am
Pentagon North Parking Lot
Online: marinemarathon.com

 What is your favorite way to get in shape with your kids? Tell us in the comments section below. 

—Jamy Bond

Photos courtesy of teddyb via Flickr, Marine Corps Marathon via Facebook, Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon via Facebook

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Kid-Approved Holiday Happenings Worth Booking…Now!

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Jumping the gun on the holidays when school just started may sound like over-the-top type A behavior, but—trust us—when it comes to some of the most popular revelry in the District, it’s totally worth it. You’ll have more family fa-la-la-ahh time together in December with this booking guide for the hottest holiday happenings. Plan now; stress less later. Period.



Nutcracker Sw-w-w-e-e-e-e-t
Remember the first time saw the Snow Queen? The world shimmered as she danced, taking your breath away with each jeté. Everything was beautiful at the ballet. If your sugarplums will be 5 or 6 years old by December, they’re ready for you to share Clara’s magical story with them. Snag choice seats now to the most bedazzling and sumptuous performances of this timeless dance confection by nabbing your tickets now. Squiggly kid tip: Aisle seats make for quicker exits.

  • The Washington Ballet
    November 29-30
    THEARC (Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus)
    1901 Mississippi Ave., SE
    December 4-28
    Warner Theater
    513 13th St.
    202-397-7328
    Online: washingtonballet.org
  • The Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
    December 14
    Strathmore Music Center
    5301 Tuckerman Ln. (North Bethesda, Md)
    301-581-5100
    Online: strathmore.org
  • Center for the Arts, George Mason University
    December 17-18 (not matinee)
    4373 Mason Pond Dr. (Fairfax, Va)
    888-945-2468
    Online: cfa.gmu.edu
  • The Puppet Co.
    November 28–December 31
    Glen Echo Park
    7300 MacArthur Blvd. (Glen Echo, Md)
    301-634-5380
    Online: thepuppetco.org

One Lump or Two?  (No, Not Coal)
A proper cup of tea with a scone. What a lovely tradition. If your timing is right, you and the kiddo can go ice-skating together and then refuel with delectables. If the weather is dreary, not to worry dearie. A hot cup of tea with your kids will do you all good. Reservations now mean your holiday to-do-list-that-is-way-too-long has a built in pause button. Time for a nibble and giggle.

  • The Ritz Carlton at Pentagon City Va, serves up a posh tea service for the pint size set (did you say Hot Chocolate mom?) and is nearby the not-too-big skating rink in Pentagon Row. Book your reservations now because they fill up fast. Insider tip: tell them you want the Teddy Bear Children’s Tea when you make the reservation.Ritz Carlton Pentagon City
    1250 S Hayes St. (Arlington, Va)
    Tea Times: Saturdays 2:30 pm-4:30 pm
    Sundays 3 pm-4:30 pm
    Cost: $29-$42/person; Teddy Bear Children’s Tea (with Hot Chocolate), $16/person
    703-412-2762
    Online: ritzcarlton.com
  • Sip a cuppa tea with your 4+ year old and Mrs. Claus at the Mansion at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Md. Listen to music, and nosh away while she reads a heartwarming story. Guess who will stop for a surprise Ho-Ho-Ho? Nope. Not the Green Giant. Guess again, but don’t tell the kids. It’s suppose to be a secret.The Mansion at Strathmore
    10701 Rockville Pike (North Bethesda, Md)
    Cost: $26/person
    Reservations: 301-581-5108

Discover Tuba Christmas
Every year a triumphant of tubas gather at the Kennedy Center grand foyer to play holiday songs. Think dozens of marching band members of all ages coming together in a euphoric Christmas euphonium fest. It’s an oomp-pah-pah hoot not to be missed. Sound check tip: Take along earplugs for little listeners.

When: Second week in December
Cost: Free
Kennedy Center
700 F St., NW (Foggy Bottom)

Spend the Holidays in Russia
If you missed out on the summertime French Festival at Hillwood, you can revel at the Russian Winter Festival at Hillwood in December. Hang on to your babushka as you and the kid-niks kick up your heels Russian style and twirl around to that lively Caucus beat. After a full day the kids will go to bed early. You can curl up and watch Doctor Zhivago. Nyet?

When: December 13-14 , 10 am-5 pm
Cost: $5-$18; FREE for 6 and under
Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens
4155 Linnean Ave., NW (Van Ness)
202-686-8500
Online: hillwoodmuseum.org

Which of these do you plan on booking? Tell us in the comments section below. 

—Linda Bennett

Photos courtesy of The Washington Ballet via Facebook, Larry Jacobsen via Flickr, Hillwood Museum via Facebook

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