Fairfax County Official Visitors Guide

Things to Do

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:16:00 +0000

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Signature Events

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:09:38 +0000

Fairfax County keeps things lively year-round with events that’ll have you coming back for more!

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72 Unforgettable Hours in DC

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 11:19:41 +0000

Make Fairfax County your convenient homebase for a three-day jaunt to America’s capital city, where you can walk through history at top monuments, memorials, museums and more.

Day 1

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Unique Neighborhoods + Quaint Small Towns

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 11:13:34 +0000

Each neighborhood in Fairfax County has its own personality and story to tell. Plus, our small towns? They’re downright delightful, filled with culture, community and charm.

Neighborhoods

Alexandria/Mount Vernon
You can’t talk about this history-rich area without mentioning George Washington’s Mount Vernon. But don’t miss hidden gems like George Mason’s Gunston Hall and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House, a Usonian masterpiece designed to blend seamlessly with its surrounding landscape that also shares property with Woodlawn Historic Site.

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Adventures for Family Fun

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:55:46 +0000

From water parks to animal encounters, family-friendly attractions in Fairfax County cater to kids, teens and tweens alike.

Water Wonders

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Spa-tacular Experiences

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:45:56 +0000

When it’s time to unwind, Fairfax County delivers with serene spaces, global-inspired therapies and wellness amenities to leave you glowing.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Tysons Corner
This elegant oasis adjacent to Tysons Galleria is all plush robes, flickering candles and five-star service to elevate your self-care game. Indulge in a deep-tissue massage or one of the luxuriously scented body-polish scrubs, including Champagne & Rose, Cherry Blossom and Vanilla Bourbon.
Balian Springs
This social wellness club in Alexandria blends hydrotherapy with radiant rituals. Step into a cold plunge, unwind in heated pools or immerse yourself into one of the unique saunas before taking your happy self to the Lilikoi Day Spa for a relaxing body wrap or facial. Pop into one of the modern eateries for an adaptogen mocktail or nutritious meal to cap the day.
Courted at The St. James
Part of a massive sports and health complex in Springfield, Courted combines fitness recovery with regenerative science. Try out the IV micronutrient infusions or infrared sauna blankets. Or do as the athletes do and optimize your energy and recovery with techniques such as cryotherapy, cupping and hot stones.
Spa World
With saunas and soaking tubs galore, this Korean-inspired spa in Centreville is a favorite for holistic healing and detoxing. Don’t miss a meditation in the Red Clay, Amethyst Gem or Oak Wood Charcoal rooms, each offering their own benefits to treat the mind, body and soul.

Explore more wellness experiences!

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Artsy Hangouts

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:42:57 +0000

The local arts scene has plenty to explore, especially unique cultural spaces and galleries that both seasoned art lovers and casual visitors can appreciate.

Workhouse Arts Center
This vibrant and historic arts campus in Lorton houses artist studios, hosts contemporary exhibitions and offers hundreds of classes and events per year.
Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art
Tephra ICA in Reston promotes innovative contemporary art via thought-provoking exhibitions and artist talks; the Institute also hosts the annual Fine Arts Festival each May.
Reston Art Gallery & Studios
Check out the works of several juried artists across various mediums like watercolor, photography and sculpture at this waterfront gallery space.
Reston Community Center Galleries
Three galleries across two locations, including one for 3D pieces, put the area’s active visual-arts community on display.
Nepenthe Gallery
In Alexandria, discover a new favorite artist or admire unique works from around the world during a Thursday ART+WINE+CHEESE event.
The Arts of Great Falls
Visit during open studio hours or First Friday Art Walks to see the latest works from resident artists.
Craft Gallery of Artisans United
Shop for handcrafted items at this Annandale gallery, including wearable art, jewelry, pottery and more.
McLean Community Center
Home to the McLean Project for the Arts, its multiple galleries feature established and emerging Mid-Atlantic artists.
Vienna Arts Society Galleries
In addition to an Art Center with rotating themed shows, this group operates the hidden-gem Village Green Art Gallery.
Wentworth Gallery
With a location at the upscale Tysons Galleria, Wentworth is known for its selection of fine art from around the world.
Arts Herndon
This community organization provides a creative space for artists and the public with exhibitions, classes and events.

Explore more local galleries!

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Showstopping Stages + Vibrant Theaters

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:39:46 +0000

Home to a pulsating arts community, Fairfax County boasts numerous stages across multiple cities and towns where couples, families and friends can soak up local culture. Discover some of the best places to experience live music, theatre and more.

Music

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Spirited Sips

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:27:57 +0000

Fairfax County’s craft beverage scene is flavor-packed, from hazy hops and bold reds to silky smooth spirits. With 10 craft breweries, three wineries and two distilleries on tap, #FXVA raises a glass to its most spirited spots.

Breweries

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Incredible Dining

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:25:17 +0000

Fairfax County’s more than 2,600 restaurants (no, that’s not a typo) blend dozens of flavorful cuisines into one incomparable dining scene. Hope you’re hungry!

New American Innovation

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Places to Play

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:21:10 +0000

Whether you’re into hiking, camping, water sports or golf, there’s no shortage of places to get outside and have fun throughout Fairfax County.

Pick Your Park

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Nature Escapes

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:14:56 +0000

Leave the hustle and bustle behind at these ecological treasures, whether you’re seeking peaceful strolls, vibrant blooms or a bit of history throughout the region.

Spot warblers, woodpeckers and more as you stroll the boardwalk at Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria.
Channel your inner zen at the Korean Bell Garden tucked inside the 95-acre Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, surrounded by symbolic structures and seasonal blooms in Vienna.
Bald eagle watchers, keep your eye on the sky and the nests above as you roam more than 1,800 acres of trails and shoreline in Lorton at Mason Neck State Park and Elizabeth Hartwell National Wildlife Refuge.
Follow Haul Road Trail through freshwater tidal wetlands, leaving your worries behind with every feathered friend you see at Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve in Alexandria.
Take in tulips of every shade of pink as you stroll Alexandria’s River Farm, once part of George Washington’s estate and now headquarters of the American Horticultural Society.
For history buffs and gardeners, Green Spring Gardens in Alexandria offers varied programs like afternoon tea at the 18th-century manor house and workshops in the demonstration gardens.
At Chantilly’s Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, stroll forest trails, cross streams, explore historic ruins and pack a picnic lunch – because we predict your quick trip will turn into a longer one.

Explore more local parks!

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Must-See Museums

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:57:45 +0000

Journey through Fairfax County’s diverse history at museums that provide a peek into its storied past.

Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Get an up-close look at iconic planes like one of the fastest jets in the world, the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, and the infamous B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay.
National Museum of the United States Army
Located on the public grounds of Fort Belvoir, this expansive museum showcases 250 years of Army history told through the eyes of soldiers.
Freeman Store & Museum
Nestled in the quaint Town of Vienna, this 1859 general store-turned-museum (and gift shop) offers a glimpse into 19th-century life. Next door, don’t miss Vienna’s Little Library Museum.
Gum Springs
Founded in 1833 by freedman West Ford, Gum Springs is the oldest Black community in Fairfax County with a museum dedicated to its rich cultural heritage.
Lorton Prison Museum & Lucy Burns Gallery
At the Lorton Prison Museum, learn about the contributions of Lucy Burns and other activists who were incarcerated during the suffrage movement and beyond. At nearby Occoquan Regional Park, Turning Point Suffragist Memorial is the first national memorial dedicated to American women suffragists.
Reston Museum
This museum chronicles Reston’s unique past, present and future through exhibitions, a collection of artifacts, public art and community events.
Fairfax Station Railroad Museum
Local railroading history comes alive at this former train station, including its pivotal role during the Civil War.
Civil War Museum at The Winery at Bull Run
Adjacent to Manassas National Battlefield Park, this bucolic vineyard’s unique Civil War museum contains a collection of more than 200,000 artifacts and relics.

Explore more museums!

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History Hot Spots

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:52:11 +0000

Step back in time at these fascinating sites offering a glimpse of Virginia’s early days.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Wander our first president’s storied estate to learn about who George Washington was as a man, a farmer, an entrepreneur, a general and a president. Explore the estate’s mansion, lush gardens and interesting outbuildings, as well as a new immersive museum and a Revolutionary War living history pathway.
George Mason’s Gunston Hall
Visit the “Home of American Rights,” where an influential founding father lived in the 18th century. George Mason is known as the “Father of the Bill of Rights” and his Virginia Declaration of Rights became the basis for the U.S. Bill of Rights.
Historic Blenheim & Civil War Interpretive Center
At Blenheim, a circa-1859 brick farmhouse built by the Willcoxon family in the City of Fairfax, you’ll learn how this home became a refuge for Civil War Union soldiers, who left signatures, drawings and musings scribbled (and now preserved) on its walls. Afterward, explore 12 acres that include an 1840s cottage and a period cemetery.
Sully Historic Site
Tour the 1790s home of Northern Virginia’s first U.S. Congressman, Richard Bland Lee. Learn about early American life and the people who lived here, as well as the property’s connection to the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.
Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House
Admire famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s classically modern Pope-Leighey House, which was designed in a way that brings the outdoors inside. The home shares property with Woodlawn, an 18th century estate once owned by George Washington that also carries a captivating history related to social activism and the American story.
Colvin Run Mill
Tour a 200-year-old operational, water-powered gristmill and purchase the artisanal flours, grits, cornmeal and buckwheat still made from the mill at the site’s historic general store.
George Washington’s Distillery® & Gristmill
Attend a small-batch spirits tasting event or take a specialty tour of a fully functional reconstruction of our first president’s distillery and gristmill, located 3 miles from Mount Vernon’s main entrance. Imagine what it was like in 1799, when nearly 11,000 gallons of whiskey were produced here! This site serves as the Gateway to the American Whiskey Trail.
Historic Huntley House
Built as a summer getaway for Thomson Francis Mason, former mayor of Alexandria and grandson of George Mason, this Federal-period villa on the National Register of Historic Places is an architectural jewel. Visit the grounds April through October for insightful tours and family outings.
Ox Hill Battlefield Park
Explore Fairfax County’s only major Civil War battle site, where more than 1,500 soldiers were wounded or killed on Sept. 1, 1862. Now a tranquil park to take a stroll, visitors can learn about the battle from a historian via audio tour.
Pohick Church
The home church of George Washington and George Mason, this grand red-brick place of worship still hosts services and boasts a meaningful tie to early American history as the “Mother Church of Northern Virginia.” Experience the ground’s lush, manicured lawn and see historical burial plots, as well as a 12th century baptismal font.
Tinner Hill Historic Park
Visit a peaceful park celebrated as a pivotal point for African American history. Here, Joseph and Elizabeth Tinner fought segregation laws threatening their small Tinner Hill community, which resulted in the very first rural branch of the NAACP.
Historic Fairfax Courthouse
Constructed in 1799 and a significant site during the early stages of the Civil War, this historic brick courthouse now showcases colonial-style wainscoting and an imposing facade. It is also home to the Last Will and Testament of both George and Martha Washington.

Explore more local history!

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Getting Here & Getting Around

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:40:22 +0000

Planes
Fairfax County sits between Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), with Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) only 45 miles away.

Trains
Amtrak runs between Union Station in Washington, DC and major eastern cities. The AutoTrain is available from Lorton, and Virginia Railway Express (VRE) runs from Manassas and Fredericksburg to Union Station, with stops in Fairfax County.

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New Experiences

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:30:01 +0000

In addition to the buzz around America’s 250th anniversary happening all year long, here are eight more reasons why Fairfax County should be on your 2026 travel radar.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon features a reimagined tour of the newly revitalized mansion and is opening an all-new museum experience called “George Washington: A Revolutionary Life.” Plus, you can pick up a VA250 Passport here!

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Lively Retail Hubs

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:24:02 +0000

In retail-blessed Fairfax County, shopping days come with skyline views, artisan markets and one-of-a-kind finds worthy of suitcase space. Stroll through stylish streets, unwind with drinks in a courtyard or catch live music between boutique visits. These seven retail centers mix fashion, flavor and fun!

Tysons Corner Center
Tysons Corner Center in Tysons has Instagrammable artwork, an elevated outdoor plaza with ongoing programming and an interactive children’s play area. Tiny travelers will be thrilled by the American Girl store, picking out the perfect doll. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy open-air concerts and “Shopping with a Twist,” where you can walk freely with a cool cocktail in hand.
Reston Town Center
Brick-lined walkways and a sculpture-studded fountain make Reston Town Center a must-see for a shopping spree and photo op. Cafés spill onto cozy patios and retailers like Scrawl Books and White House Black Market provide hours of browsing. In the winter, strap on some skates and twirl around the ice rink or attend holiday happenings like the annual tree lighting.
Springfield Town Center
Springfield Town Center is a bright and airy mall with lots of local energy. A full slate of seasonal events and food festivals take place just outside the building, while the sleek interior makes it easy to browse and recharge. Kiddos can burn off steam at the indoor play zone, hone their building skills at LEGO® Discovery Center or catch a movie on reclining chairs at Regal Cinemas.
Fair Oaks Mall
Wander through sunlit atriums and discover art installations, cool kiosks and quiet corners at Fair Oaks Mall in Fairfax. Find a new outfit for a big night out at favorites like Windsor or Torrid, then snag some snacks at D’Ambrosio Gelato or DonutChew and stroll around. If you’re looking for a rainy-day hang or a souvenir to take home, this is the place to stop.
Tysons Galleria
Sashay through an iconic lineup of luxury designers like Chanel, Prada and Saint Laurent at Tysons Galleria in Tysons, famous for its elevated brands and delicious dining. When it’s time to take a break, grab a specialty coffee at Shotted or settle in for a Filet Medallion Duo paired with a martini at Wildfire Steaks, Chops & Seafood.
Fairfax Corner
Fairfax Corner combines walkable streets with a mix of local stores and national favorites in Fairfax, including Monkee’s, Rosegate Design and LOFT. The central promenade often buzzes with fun events – think fitness classes, live music and seasonal pop-ups. Cool off with an ice cream cone while kids play with the oversized yard games.
Mosaic District
In the heart of Merrifield, the Mosaic District packs fashionable boutiques, tasty eats and beautiful green spaces into a walkable urban center. Peruse brands like Anthropologie and Kendra Scott or catch a film at Angelika Film Center. With Sip and Stroll, you can explore the district with a drink in hand or take a seat at Colada Shop for rich Cuban coffee. Keep an eye out for weekly farmers markets; they’re a great way to try out fresh Virginia fare.

Explore more shopping bliss!

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Welcome

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:11:41 +0000

Connect With America in Fairfax County!

All eyes will be on the Nation’s Capital for America’s big 250th birthday celebration throughout 2026. And thanks to its one-of-a-kind attractions, plentiful lodging and close proximity, Fairfax County is a perfect homebase for exploring the area and enjoying the festivities in and around Washington, DC. To mark this momentous time in our nation’s history, we offer 250 Ways to Celebrate America’s 250th in Fairfax County. Just turn the page to start counting them all!

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Can’t-Miss Attractions

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:08:35 +0000

Whether you’re wandering through storied estates, taking in sweeping views or catching a live show under the stars in Fairfax County, this vibrant hub of the Northern Virginia and Washington, DC region offers so much for so many. From museums and monuments to shopping and scenic hikes, you simply can’t miss these popular attractions when you visit!

George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Step into the world of America’s first president at his meticulously preserved home, Mount Vernon. As one of the most-visited historic estates in the nation, the mansion provides insights into 18th-century life. Take a tour, then spend the day strolling through lush gardens, laying a wreath at General Washington’s Tomb and exploring the poignant Slave Memorial, offering a comprehensive view of the era. This year, keep a look out for a fully reimagined mansion tour and new immersive museum.
Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Aviation and space enthusiasts will be awed by this expansive museum in Chantilly that houses thousands of aerospace artifacts, including the Space Shuttle Discovery and Air France’s Concorde. Climb the Observation Tower to watch active planes landing at adjacent Washington Dulles International Airport or peer down at work in progress at the Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar.
Great Falls Park
Experience the raw beauty of the Potomac River as it cascades over jagged rocks, forming the majestic Great Falls. This 800-acre park in McLean offers hiking, biking, rock climbing and horseback riding trails, plus various lookout points to take in the grandeur of dramatic rocks and rolling rapids. Aside from a wonderful day in nature, gain historical insights into George Washington’s Patowmack Company, which aimed to make the Potomac navigable for early trade routes.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
As the nation’s only national park dedicated to the performing arts, Wolf Trap offers a diverse entertainment lineup at its three venues. Enjoy everything from legendary recording artists and the National Symphony Orchestra to opera, dance and jazz in a serene, wooded setting. Bonus perk: In the summer, set up a picnic with local wines and food for a memorable evening of music, nature and art under the stars.
National Museum of the United States Army
Delve into 250 years of Army history at this state-of-the-art museum on the public grounds of Fort Belvoir. Educational exhibits on founding and preserving the nation, plus first-hand stories from soldiers, honor the bravery and sacrifices of the U.S. Army – past, present and future. Catch one of the family-friendly events or G-STEM-based activities, which make military history tangible for all ages.
Workhouse Arts Center
Once a prison, this 55-acre campus in the heart of Lorton has since transformed into a vibrant arts hub. Explore contemporary art galleries, attend theater performances or participate in workshops spanning ceramics, painting, improv and more. The center also hosts events like the monthly 2nd Saturday Open House & Art Walk, celebrating community creativity with 70-plus local artists and live music, as well as large-scale annual celebrations during Halloween and the Fourth of July.
Tysons Corner Center
Shop, dine and play at one of the nation’s premier retail destinations. Located in the heart of Tysons, this massive mall offers a dynamic mix of high-end brands, local boutiques, diverse eateries and innovative entertainment options just minutes from Washington, DC. After shopping around, catch a flick at the cinema or people-watch at the upscale outdoor plaza. Bonus: Visit nearby Tysons Galleria for luxury and designer brands to complete your Tysons shopping experience.

Explore more top attractions!

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Accommodations

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:55:02 +0000

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Dining

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:54:54 +0000

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