I am always on the lookout for a place my toddler and I can go to get out some energy and be free to roam. Here are the places we have checked out so far!
Sections
4
Free
Admission/Membership needed
Food/Drink
Day trip
Free
This adorable vintage carousel is located just outside the Virginia Discovery Museum and open to the public for free during their business hours (closed on Sundays)
VDM Carousel - Downtown Mall
We haven’t explored this yet but it’s on the list!
The Accessible Treehouse
Enjoy a cocktail, coffee, or ice cream while your toddler plays in The Puffling Play Space.
Dairy Market - Puffling Play Place
Our neighborhood park. Love the dedicated play space for younger kids and the large open field.
Rives Park - Charlottesville Nature Play
Get popsicles from La Flor Michoacana and then cross the street to Tonsler Park and enjoy the splash pad.
Tonsley Park Spray Grounds
Take your infant/baby to the Lowe's lighting aisle. They will love it!!! And its free!
Lowes Home Improvement
Such a fun weekend activity during the holidays. It's totally free and sponsored by the Friends of Downtown.
Downtown Holiday Express - Christmas Train
Admission/Membership needed
Endless fun!
Virginia Discovery Museum | Charlottesville, VA
Love the focus on reusing trash for creative play
Blossom Play Space
Perfect for all ages
Onesty Family Aquatic Center | Charlottesville, VA
Free admission first Thursday of each month
The Looking Glass | IX Arts Foundation | Charlottesville
Excited to check out this space when it opens!
Cocos Adventure Factory | Charlottesville VA
Food/Drink
On a large hill but there are some big decks and patios that are good for running around. Very family friendly
Carter Mountain Orchard | Charlottesville, VA
Just checked out this place for the first time - super kid friendly!
The Birdcage — Mockingbird Restaurant
Day trip
Great variety of animals - zoo is a little old and needs some TLC but my son loved the animals and even got to pet some.
Metro Richmond Zoo
I used to go here as a kid and it was like a magical portal to fun. I am excited to take my son soon.
