The Best Playgrounds in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia for Nannies and Kids
As a nanny in the DC metro area, you know how important it is to get the kids outside—
but going to the same playground every day can get old fast. If you’re looking for new
adventures and fresh air for your little ones, we’ve rounded up some of our community’s
favorite playgrounds for a go-to guide to some of the best playgrounds in Washington, DC,
Maryland, and Northern Virginia.
These parks offer a range of age-appropriate features, from toddler-safe play zones to
challenging equipment for older kids. Best of all, they’re vetted by nannies like you!
🏙️ Washington, DC
🐢 Friendship “Turtle” Park
- Address: 4500 Van Ness St NW, Washington, DC 20016
- Best for: All ages
- Restroom: Yes
- Highlights: Separate play areas for toddlers and big kids, a large sandbox, splash pad, tennis courts, shaded benches, and picnic tables.
🎨 Westminster Playground
- Address: 911 Westminster St NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Best for: Ages 1–5
- Restroom: No
- Highlights: Small, toddler-friendly playground with a community vibe. Often stocked with shared ride-on toys and shaded seating.
🌲 Maryland
🎠 Glen Echo Park
- Address: 7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812
- Best for: All ages
- Restroom: Yes
- Highlights: Historic park with an antique carousel, arts events, picnic areas, and open play spaces. A unique blend of culture and outdoor fun.
🛝 Potomac Woods Park
- Address: 2276 Dunster Ln, Rockville, MD 20854
- Best for: Toddlers to age 5
- Restroom: Yes
- Highlights: Small, quiet playground with toddler-safe structures, picnic areas, and a peaceful setting for low-key outings.
🌳 Falls Road Local Park
- Address: 12600 Falls Rd, Potomac, MD 20854
- Best for: Babies to age 8
- Restroom: Yes
- Highlights: Versatile play structures for different ages, including swings and climbing equipment. Large fields and shade trees nearby.
🚂 Cabin John Regional Park
- Address: 7400 Tuckerman Ln, Bethesda, MD 20817
- Best for: All ages
- Restroom: Yes
- Highlights: Huge playground with separate areas by age, plus nature trails, a mini train, and picnic shelters. Great for daylong outings.
🏞️ Northern Virginia
🧸 Chestnut Hills Park
- Address: 2807 N Harrison St, Arlington, VA 22207
- Best for: Toddlers to age 8
- Restroom: No
- Highlights: Fenced-in, shaded playground with a sandbox, ride-on toys, and age-appropriate climbing equipment.
🌈 Clemyjontri Park
- Address: 6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA 22101
- Best for: Babies to age 8
- Restroom: Yes
- Highlights: Massive, colorful playground designed to be accessible and inclusive. Great for groups and kids of all abilities.
🧗♀️ Adventure Playground (South Run Rec Center)
- Address: 7550 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153
- Best for: Ages 5+
- Restroom: Yes (inside rec center)
- Highlights: Nature-themed equipment, zip lines, climbing structures, and shaded trails. Great for active older kids.
🚞 Bluemont Park Playground
- Address: 601 N Manchester St, Arlington, VA 22203
- Best for: Toddlers through early elementary
- Restroom: Yes
- Highlights: Variety of structures for different ages, walking trails, picnic spots, and a historic train car for kids to explore.
👩👧 Final Tips for Nannies
- Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit.
- Check park websites for seasonal closures or splash pad hours.
- Look for fenced areas if caring for young toddlers.
Love discovering new places like this? Follow @whitehousenannies on Instagram for more local recs, or visit our job board for amazing nanny opportunities in the DC metro area.
