A few years back, the grand court at Potomac Mills mall opened a new Virginia-themed play place. This has been a great place to let the little ones burn off some energy and have some fun of their own after following us around shopping! And well, when it’s freezing outside and we need a place to let them run around with other kids too!
The Play Area
The 1200 square foot space is a lot of fun and several well-known Virginia landmarks including:
- George Washington
- Cannon
- 17th century ship
- A miniature replica of Monticello
- Chesapeake blue crabs
- A cardinal
- GW’s fabled cherry tree
- and more!
While the cannon and cardinal in the birdbath seemed to be of little interest to the masses, Monticello, the ship and cherry tree were impressive. All three of these allowed for climbing on top of or crawling through to the other side. The tree has a small slide that had a line of children wanting to climb its tree trunk.
Walk along the (carpeted) Potomac and James River or play with the Kidgits crank games and mirrors along the walls of the enclosed structure. Remember the keyboard in the movie Big? It’s recreated on the wall here and kids can step on the speaker to hear different notes. It’s really neat!
Where Is the Potomac Mills Mall Play Area Located?
You’ll find the play area located in neighborhood 2’s Grand Court. From the outside, the best entrance for fastest access to the play area is near TJ Maxx.
For The Parents
Parents like the two trash/recycling and changing stations plus comfy booth style seating.
Cubbies for shoes are located under the seats. If it gets too crowded, there are chairs, picnic style benches and little tables and chairs for parents and kids alike.
Stroller Summit is along the perimeter of the space although most people clogged the entrance with their strollers.
The creators of the space really thought of everything and chose such a colorful and perfect theme for the state of Virginia.
Play Area Hours & Restrictions
Like every play area, there are a few rules you should know before you go:
- The play area is open during mall hours which are currently:
Monday to Thursday: 11am to 8pm
Friday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm
Sunday: 11am to 6pm
Check for current and special hours here - The play area is closed from 2:30 to 3pm daily for cleaning
- The maximum height to play in the play area is 48″
- No food or drink is allowed in the play area
What’s Nearby
Bathrooms are located throughout the mall with a lounge area for nursing moms in neighborhood 1.
Multiple food options are available directly across from the play area including Orange Julius, Auntie Anne’s, Subway and Yogen Fruz.
And of course all the shops and cafes!
Indoor play spaces are especially wonderful during the winter or summer when the weather can be unfavorable. The play area at Potomac Mills Mall is a great way for your child to burn off some energy in a safe environment and maybe experience a history lesson. Best of all, it’s free!
