Table of Contents
Fairfax County Va Gis
Top Attractions
Fairfax County is home to some of the top attractions in the country, including the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, and the George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. Other must-see attractions include the Great Falls Park, the National Museum of the Marine Corps, and the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, Fairfax County has plenty of hidden gems to discover. Check out the Green Spring Gardens, a hidden gem with beautiful gardens and historic buildings, or visit the Workhouse Arts Center, a former prison turned art center. Another hidden gem is the Colvin Run Mill, a historic gristmill and park that offers tours and educational programs.
Food Scene
Fairfax County has a diverse and vibrant food scene, with options ranging from international cuisine to farm-to-table restaurants. Some of the top restaurants include The Wine House, a wine bar and restaurant with an extensive wine list and delicious food, and The Liberty Tavern, a neighborhood spot with a farm-to-table menu. For international cuisine, head to Eden Center for Vietnamese food or Karaikudi for Indian cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of things to see and do in Fairfax County. Check out the free Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center and the National Museum of the Marine Corps. You can also explore the local parks and hiking trails, or visit one of the farmer’s markets to pick up some local produce.
Outdoor Adventures
Fairfax County is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with plenty of hiking, biking, and kayaking opportunities. Check out the W&OD Trail, a 45-mile paved trail that runs through the county, or head to Great Falls Park for some hiking and kayaking. You can also go fishing at Lake Fairfax Park or take a hot air balloon ride over the county.
Historical Landmarks
Fairfax County is steeped in history, with plenty of historical landmarks to explore. Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate to learn about the first president’s life, or head to Gunston Hall, the home of George Mason. You can also visit the Manassas National Battlefield Park, the site of two Civil War battles.
Family-Friendly Activities
Fairfax County is a great destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities. Take the kids to the Children’s Science Center in Herndon, or visit the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. You can also go to the Reston Zoo or the Great Waves Waterpark for some outdoor fun.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, Fairfax County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. Visit the Sully Historic Site, a 1794 mansion and museum, or check out the National Museum of the United States Army, a brand new museum that just opened in 2020. You can also take a ghost tour of Old Town Alexandria or visit the National Museum of American History’s satellite location at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian.
Natural Wonders
Fairfax County is home to some stunning natural wonders, including the Great Falls Park and the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. You can also visit the Huntley Meadows Park, a wetland sanctuary with plenty of wildlife, or go birdwatching at the Mason Neck State Park. Don’t miss the cherry blossoms in the spring at the Tidal Basin!
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Fairfax County comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Check out the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts for some outdoor concerts, or head to the Jammin Java for some live music indoors. You can also visit the Clarendon neighborhood in Arlington for some bars and restaurants.
Local Markets
Fairfax County has plenty of farmer’s markets where you can pick up some local produce and goodies. Check out the Reston Farmer’s Market or the Vienna Farmer’s Market for some fresh fruits and veggies, or visit the Mosaic District Farmers Market for some artisanal foods and crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
While Fairfax County doesn’t have any beaches or mountains of its own, it’s a great base for exploring the surrounding areas. Head to Virginia Beach for some sun and sand, or visit the Shenandoah National Park for some hiking and camping in the mountains.
Cultural Immersion
Fairfax County is a melting pot of different cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in different cultures. Visit the Korean Bell Garden at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, or check out the Diwali Festival of Lights at the Workhouse Arts Center. You can also attend the annual Northern Virginia Jewish Film Festival or the Greek Festival of Saint Katherine.
Art and Music Scene
Fairfax County has a thriving arts and music scene, with plenty of galleries and music venues to explore. Check out the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, or visit the ArtSpace Herndon for some local art. For music, head to the State Theatre in Falls Church or the Birchmere in Alexandria for some live music.
Walking Tours
If you prefer to explore on foot, Fairfax County has plenty of walking tours to choose from. Take a historic walking tour of Old Town Alexandria, or visit the Fairfax County History Commission for some self-guided tours. You can also take a food tour of the Mosaic District or a ghost tour of the city.
Architectural Marvels
Fairfax County is home to some stunning architectural marvels, including the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Pope-Leighey House and the Thomas Jefferson-designed Poplar Forest. You can also visit the historic Carlyle House in Alexandria or the Oatlands Historic House and Gardens in Leesburg.
Historical Sites
Finally, Fairfax County is full of historical sites to explore. Visit the Mount Vernon estate to learn about George Washington, or check out the Claude Moore Colonial Farm to experience life in colonial Virginia. You can also visit the Freedom House Museum in Alexandria, which tells the story of the domestic slave trade.
With so much to see and do in Fairfax County, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, food, outdoor adventures, or cultural immersion, you’ll find it all here.