Visiting with Kids
Historic Sotterley is the perfect space to get kids outside while learning more about our history and the world around us. In addition to our formalized education programs, we have a range of activities you and your family can enjoy together. We have something for young people of all ages from tots to teens!
Plan your visit
Join a Kid-Friendly Event
Throughout the year we put on many events aimed for kids of all ages. Check our event listings to see what's coming up next!
Tours & Exhibits
Give your kids an educational experience they won't forget! Kids are welcome on our guided tours and to experience our exhibits.
Explore the Grounds
There is so much to see at Sotterley from 100-year-old peonies to Bald Eagles. Visit the Visitor Center to pick up some tips, ISpy maps and other games to ensure your kids enjoy the walk.
Find Ziggy!
Ziggy is our local squirrel friend! Kids can look for him around the site and take pictures to share on social media when they find him. Check Facebook and Instagram every two weeks for hints at Ziggy's latest location.
Enjoy a Picnic
When the weather is lovely, bring a picnic or pick up snacks from the Visitor Center and enjoy some quality time with the family on the lawn.
Experience the Garden
Our Colonial Revival Garden is beautiful any time of year. Kids can explore a variety of flowers that our volunteers grow and the critters that call the garden home.
Fly a Kite
With over 94 acres, Historic Sotterley has many great open spaces for getting outdoors and flying a kite! Pick a breezy day and come enjoy it with a kite.
Download Activity Sheets (Coming Soon!)
We've developed great resources for parents looking to get their kids out of the house, active, and learning. Check out some of our activity sheets.
Upcoming Kid-Friendly Events
Creating our own Natural Brushes with Jami Faith
May 23, 2025 – You don’t need expensive brushes to create art, you can do it with things you forage around you! Creation Guide Jami will take us out on the grounds, as we walk about the garden and surrounding areas to gather leaves, twigs,…
Create Artwork from Nature All Around You with Jami Faith
June 6, 2025 – Create art at Historic Sotterley by using objects found in nature. Creation Guide Jami will provide small accordian style books and guidance to our guests as we create prints from leaves and other natural elements. We will do a short walkabout…
Colorful Creative Collage Card with Jami Faith
June 20, 2025 – Make a lovely collage card inspired by the nature around Historic Sotterley. Creation Guide Jami will walk with our guests through Sotterley’s beautiful and colorful flower garden for our inspiration to create a beautiful collage card. We will use a variety…