Many pop-up experiences for kids have come up around the area. They cover different interests and ages. These experiences are great for an afternoon or a full day, a family activity or a playdate. I’ve been able to take my son to a few and each one has been a super fun activity for us to do together. I love getting to play with him, let him experience something new and see the joy in his eyes. His favorite so far has been the Hot Wheels Experience in Tyson’s Corner, but I look forward to new favorites as we visit more.
A Variety of Pop-Up Experiences
The best thing about these experiences is that there is always a new one popping up. Since they are pop-ups, they aren’t permanent. However, there seems to be a never ending rotation of ones coming in just as one is leaving. This means there is always something new for you and your kids to try.
These experiences usually do require tickets, and sometimes the ticket price can be more than you’d expect. If you’re headed to an extremely popular one, make sure to check and get tickets early. Most are also timed entry tickets, so pick one that doesn’t interfere with your kids’ naps or another activity.
Here are pop-up experiences around the area now:
Dinos Alive
Rhode Island Center, 524 Rhode Island Ave., NE Washington, DC
This experience is great for kids who are dinosaur enthusiasts. Complete with a walk through a land with giant animatronic dinosaurs, this is probably better for older kids or very brave younger ones.
CAMP x Disney Encanto
7866L Tysons Corner Center, Tysons, VA 22102
It might be time to talk about Bruno when you visit this immersive experience. There’s music, magic, and more for kids and adults.
The Big Bounce America
6336 Rosecroft Dr, Fort Washington, MD 20744
Do your kids love a bounce house as much as my toddler does? Then this is for you! A truly GIANT experience with bounce houses, obstacle courses, and more. It’s for all ages from toddlers up to adults! Starts May 29.
Celebration of Modern AG on the National Mall
On the National Mall between the Smithsonian museums. We went last year, and my toddler had the best time climbing on construction vehicles. This year, the theme is the Future of Food and Farming. According to their website, “AEM is striving to have the full spectrum of agricultural equipment represented, including livestock, specialty and row crops.” Head down to the National Mall May 6-8!
Artechouse
1238 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
Immersive yourself in unique artistic experiences year round at Artechouse. Right now their ISEKAI theme has an anime theme along with gorgeous blooms. Artechouse’s shows vary in price, but kids 0-3 are free. Tickets are required in advance.
LEGO Discovery Center
6563 Springfield Town Center Suite 12004, Springfield, VA 22150
This isn’t technically a pop-up, since it is a permanent experience, but the LEGO experience is amazing. Legos are for everyone! Here big and little kids can play, build, and more.
There are more pop-up experiences for kids like Bubble World too!
Great article, but I thought CAMP, Lego Discovery Center and Artechouse were permanent stores/museums, not pop-ups?