I guess we can finally say that we feel “at home” in Virginia. This has been one of the hardest transitions for me but I have to say that God has been faithful throughout the whole process and I am so blessed to call this great state our home. The boys have certainly taken advantage of all the amazing things NOVA has to offer including the amazing public parks and trails. Evan and Josh are getting better at riding their bikes every day and the fresh air and outdoor activities have been great for them.

With fall upon us (again!!!) I want to share with you a bit about last year’s visit to the Burke Nursery Pumpkin Playground. Evan and Joshua’s preschool visited this awesome place on a field trip and I must confess I was quite impressed with the layout and atmosphere.

When you first get there you are greeted by a super fun shop that you have to visit on the way out. After you pay for your admission fee ($10 per person on weekdays, $14 on weekends) you practically walk into a harvest wonderland. The boys were so excited and started exploring right away. I had a hard time keeping up with them and had to figure out how to watch both of them at the same time. Good thing this place is enclosed and it is almost impossible for little runners to escape.

 

The play areas have different themes and all of them are super fun. All of the structures are made of wood and are in great condition. I felt like they were super sturdy and even dared go on a few of them myself.

For Evan, the highlight was the hay slides. He went so fast every time and loved it so much he stayed there for a good 40 minutes just going up and down. I think I have a little adrenaline junkie in my home and I get so excited to see him push his boundaries and try new things.

Since we visited with the boys’ school we had a special story time session at the teepee. I believe these are available throughout the day at different times. After story time, it was our turn to go on a hay ride.

The hayride was super fun but be aware that there are some scary creatures in the woods. Evan was a bit scared but brushed it off and Josh didn’t even notice them. As we left the playground we were able to chose a pumpkin to take home. I even got one!

The pumpkin playground is a little gem in the midst of NOVA worth visiting. If you have kids who love to run and explore, this is the place to visit in the fall. The 2015 season will be open from October 1st to the 31st.

Tips

1. Food is available for purchase on site. They have hotdogs, burgers and other items.  We brought out own lunch and snacks and were able to eat in one of the many benches in the park.
2. If you are able to, come on a weekday so it’s not too crowded.
3. If you want to buy a big pumpkin this is a good place to do it, however, remember your admission fee includes a small souvenir pumpkin.
4. The hayride is included in your ticket, try to do this as soon as you get in so that the kids don’t get too tired and you are able to ride on it.
5. Go on the slides!!! It is too much fun and I promise they won’t break.

 

Burke Pumpkin Playground

9401 Burke Rd.

Burke, VA