Though summer in the DC area can be hot and sticky, there are plenty of fun ways to beat the heat—including a plethora of delicious ice cream shops near DC that are sure so satisfy any sweet tooth. And while we've got plenty of love for the nationwide ice cream chains, sometimes you just want to go somewhere more local and special.

Read on for our list of 21 great ice cream shops near DC, many of which are near other attractions like parks and playgrounds. Some of them stick with what they do best (ice cream), while others offer extra goodies such as cookies and cakes.

For more great ways to keep cool this summer—including our lists of outdoor water parks and free public swimming pools near DC—check out our Summer Activities Guide for DC Kids.

Sometimes you just want to shake things up when it comes to family entertainment. Luckily, there are plenty of trending and out-of-the-box activities throughout the DC area that allow you to do just that. Whether you want to try tufting, make candles or slime, or pretend you're on a game show, DC has some unique and super cool places to check out.

Here are 19 trending and out-of-the-box activities for kids and families in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. This list includes crafty experiences, fitness and sports activities, and other fun things to do when your family needs to break out of a rut. Many of them are perfect for older kids, so even tweens and teens will find them cool.

For more activities that get older kids out of the house and away from their screens, check out our lists of teen birthday party ideas in DC and 21 fun things to do with teens and tweens in DC.