Kid-Friendly Places North of the River

Parents, it’s time to plan a fun and unforgettable summer with your children including activities that are creative and challenging, both indoors and outside. School is almost finished for the year, and schedules are easing. If you find it a challenge to find family-friendly entertainment and recreation for your children, please note these fun and instructive local suggestions. 

<< Kid Strong-1312 Gaskins Rd, Henrico, VA 23238. KidStrong is a fun, science-based kids training program that helps build confidence and character from their first steps to age eleven. Their programs are designed to show kids what it feels like to reach their full potential. Weekly classes led by expert coaches enable youngsters to tackle obstacles and challenges, making happier, more self-assured young people. And parents are given front row seats to encourage and celebrate their achievements! 

Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park >> 10050 W. Broad St, Glen Allen. Way more than just your average trampoline park, Urban Air has non-stop indoor adventure for all the kiddos! You’ll find a comprehensive range of activities, including trampolines, zip lines, laser tag, and bumper cars—all wrapped up in one facility. Enjoy pizza, wings, and a variety of other delicious treats. https://www.urbanair.com 

<<Monster Mini Golf 1404 N. Parham Rd. Suite K220 Richmond. MMG will keep all members of your tribe engaged for hours, because this entertainment venue is unlike any you’ve ever been to. All the fun is indoors and under black lights…with monsters at every turn! Play the state-of-the-art arcade, laser tag, or try eighteen holes of glow-in-the-dark mini-golf. It’s the ultimate family entertainment center! https://monsterminigolf.com 

Surge Adventure- >> 406 N Parham Road, Suite A200, Henrico. Whether you’re a youngster or just a kid at heart, you’ll love this affordable trampoline park with loads of attractions and obstacles. Challenge yourself on their intense Ninja course, enjoy dodgeball with friends, shoot hoops, show off your climbing skills, soar across trampolines, or try out the zip line. There’s also a dedicated area where young children can play safely. It’ll become your new favorite indoor jumping spot. https://surgefun.com 

<< Kids Empire-9860 W Broad St, Glen Allen. Your littles will enjoy a safe time in air-conditioned comfort at this large indoor playground featuring a snack bar, slides, a disco room, and a toddler area. Besides playing soccer, kids can unleash their creativity in the block arena by designing and constructing large Lego-style structures. Kids Empire happily hosts parties and large groups—check their website for more information. https://www.kidsempire.com 

Editorial by Kim Amboy; June 2026