Well-located with ample parking, Arlington Central Library is an excellent stopping point for families.

This library in Arlington has a variety of kid-friendly free events. Animal lovers will delight in its Paws to Read program, which pairs children in Kindergarten through fifth grade with a dog to practice reading in a stress-free environment. The American Girl Lending Program teaches young girls about different eras in American history through the fictitious stories of the iconic dolls. In addition to the excellent extra programming, the children's librarians are memorable, and as a result, storytime is very popular, so get there early to reserve your spot. 

Quincy Park and Playground stand adjacent to the library parking lot. Tropical Smoothie Cafe a two-minute walk, and there is a Sweetgreen, Shake Shack, Ted's Bulletin Ballston, and Ice Cream Jubilee all in or around the new Ballston Quarter shopping center just an eight-minute walk from Central. Medstar Capitals Iceplex is also nearby and is a great place to teach your kiddos to skate.