8 Best Things to Do with the Kids for Fall
As the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisp, Hampton Roads, Virginia, offers a plethora of family-friendly activities to make the most of the fall season. This year, consider adding an eco-friendly twist to your adventures by teaching your kids the ropes of public transportation and carpooling. Here’s a guide to the best things to do with the kids this fall in Hampton Roads, complete with tips on sustainable travel.
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1. Visit the Virginia Zoo
Head to the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk for a spooktacular experience. This family-friendly excursion offers a safe and fun environment for kids to enjoy animal encounters. To make the journey even more exciting, take advantage of the public transportation options available, providing a valuable lesson in navigating the city responsibly. You won’t have to worry about the hassle of finding parking!
2. Explore the Children’s Museum of Virginia
The Children’s Museum of Virginia in Portsmouth is a treasure trove of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. This fall, explore their themed exhibits, engage in creative workshops, and participate in special events. Coordinate with friends who have kids and organize a carpool to make the trip both enjoyable and environmentally friendly. It’s a fantastic way to instill a sense of community and eco-consciousness in your little ones. Headed from the Norfolk or Virginia Beach area? Use the VDOT toll relief program to help offset travel costs. You can also use the ferry from Norfolk to Portsmouth. Kids love to sit on the upper deck of the ferry and look at all the ships in the water!
3. Open their Palates to Oysters
Did you know November is Oyster Month in Virginia? That’s right – oyster season is during the fall months! With the perfect coastal location, Hampton Roads is known for its seafood restaurants and meals. Now’s the time to expand your kiddo’s palate to include oysters. Take them to a waterfront restaurant and encourage them to try and oyster or two. Even if your kids end up not liking them, you can feel prideful in knowing that you introduced them to a new food. Who knows – maybe they’ll like them later on in life!
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4. Learn some Naval History at Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin
Combine education with entertainment at Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin in Norfolk. Explore maritime exhibits, learn about naval history and even climb aboard a real battleship. To make the trip an adventure in itself, introduce your kids to public transportation options, like riding the Tide in Downtown Norfolk! You can use any of the free Park & Rides along the alignment to mitigate parking costs and dealing with downtown traffic. It’s a unique and educational experience that adds an extra layer of excitement to your family outing.
5. Wander the Norfolk Botanical Garden
Visit the Norfolk Botanical Garden with the kids this fall to show them that flowers and foilage looks great all year round! Teach your kids the importance of sustainable transportation by carpooling with friends! There are so many carpool benefits, including all the rewards you can earn from logging your trips with TRAFFIX! It’s a valuable lesson in eco-friendly travel while having a blast at the garden.
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7. Watch the Norfolk Admirals Skate Around the Scope
Take the family out to a Norfolk Admirals hockey game at the Scope Arena in Downtown Norfolk. As the nights get colder, it’s perfect weather for enjoying a hockey match, and kids love the energy of a live game. To make the trip hassle-free, use local transit options, such as the bus or even the Tide light rail! It’s a great way to teach your kids that attending events doesn’t always require individual car rides.
8. Walk the Noland Trail
Hiking along a beginner and kid-friendly trail like the Noland in Newport News is the perfect fall activity to do together! It’s situated near the picturesque James River, so you’ll have some great views on your walk. Teach the kids about local wildlife and greenery while you’re out. The Noland is also near multiple museums in Newport News, plus you can even do a family bike ride together! It’s a great activity to do together on a sunny fall day.
This fall, create unforgettable memories with your kids by exploring the best family-friendly activities in Hampton Roads. By incorporating public transportation and carpooling into your adventures, you’re not only making the outings more sustainable but also teaching valuable lessons about responsible and eco-conscious travel. Whether you’re hiking or attending a hockey game, these activities ensure a season filled with laughter, learning, and shared experiences.