Family-Friendly Summer Activities
Family-Friendly Events & Summer Deals in Hampton Roads
Summer is the perfect time to get outside, try something new, and make lasting memories with your children. Whether you’re looking for educational adventures, nature-filled outings, or budget-friendly entertainment, there are so many opportunities in our community to connect as a family.
Here are some of our favorite family-friendly events and programs happening this summer:
Thriving Together: Family Wellness Event
Hosted by The Up Center, Colley Community Center, & CoLink Foundation
Location: Playdate NFK | 3800 Colley Ave. Norfolk
Date: Saturday, September 26 | 10 AM – 2 PM
This community gathering will feature local organizations, family resources, wellness activities, educational opportunities, and activities for all ages. Whether you are looking for support, new connections, or ways to strengthen your family and community, Thriving Together is a space where neighbors can come together, learn, and grow. Register today.
Norfolk Botanical Garden – Children & Family Programs
Location: Norfolk Botanical Garden
Explore nature together through hands-on family programs and beautiful garden trails.
Admission: $5 per person for families using Medicaid/SNAP cards
Norfolk residents: Free entry with Medicaid card through the PowerUp Program
Norfolk Public Library – Summer Events
Location: Multiple Branches Across Norfolk
From storytimes and STEM activities to crafts and teen programs, the library offers enriching, free events for children of all ages all summer long. Check your local branch for schedules. Find out more.
The Virginia Zoo
Location: Norfolk
Get up close with animals from around the world at this exciting local zoo.
Admission: $7 per person for Norfolk residents with a Medicaid card through the PowerUp Program
Celebrating 125 years August 29th!
The Virginia Aquarium
Location: Virginia Beach
Dive into ocean discovery with exhibits, sea turtles, and interactive learning zones.
Membership Deal: Virginia Beach residents receive $20 off all membership levels
Children 0–4: Free entry
Beach Blanket Cinema
Location: 29th Street at the Oceanfront
Enjoy a relaxing evening with free family movies on the beach. Bring your blankets, snacks, and loved ones for a night under the stars. Find out more.
Parks After Dark
Brighten the night at Parks After Dark! This fun Virginia Beach initiative brings families together after sunset with free recreational activities, entertainment, and more. Find out more.
When: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays | 6 – 10 PM
Where: Three rotating locations in Virginia Beach:
- Bettie F. Williams Elementary School | June 11 – Aug. 22
892 Newtown Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 - Level Green Park | June 11 – Aug. 22
1520 Level Green Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23464 - Rosemont Elementary | June 13 – Aug. 8
1257 Rosemont Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23453
YMCA – Income-Based Memberships
Location: Various Hampton Roads Locations
The YMCA offers fitness classes, swim lessons, youth programs, and camps at affordable, income-based rates—making family wellness accessible for all.
My Active Child
Find all the fun and creative family fun events in Hampton Roads at MyActiveChild.com
Supporting Stronger Families
At The Up Center, we know how powerful shared family time can be. Our Early Childhood Home Visiting program supports parents of young children with free home-based guidance, developmental screenings, safety tips, and community resources—like the events above!
Make this summer one to remember—explore, learn, and grow together.
Looking for more parenting support? Visit www.theupcenter.org/echv.
