Looking for history, charm, and convenience near D.C.? Visit Fairfax, Virginia! Located just outside the nation’s capital, Fairfax offers a mix of colonial heritage, scenic parks, vibrant shopping, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re diving into local history or exploring trails and restaurants, Fairfax is a welcoming destination with small-town vibes and big-city access.
Fairfax, VA Highlights:
- For History Buffs: Tour the Fairfax Museum & Visitor Center – Learn about Civil War-era history and the town’s evolution through engaging exhibits.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike at Daniels Run Park – Peaceful wooded trails and bridges perfect for walking, jogging, and birdwatching.
- For Families: Enjoy a day at Burke Lake Park – Ride the miniature train, rent boats, play mini golf, or relax by the lake.
- For College Vibes: Explore George Mason University – Visit the campus, attend a performance at the Center for the Arts, or cheer on the Patriots.
- For Shoppers: Browse Mosaic District – Upscale shopping, local boutiques, dining, and an arthouse cinema just minutes away.
Best Time to Visit Fairfax, VA
The best time to visit Fairfax is during the spring (April–June) and fall (September–November), when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring parks, festivals, and historical sites. Summer is great for family travel, though more humid, while winters are quieter and festive.
How to Get to Fairfax, VA
- If you are traveling by car: Fairfax is accessible via I-66, Route 50, and the Capital Beltway (I-495), just 20 miles west of Washington, D.C.
- By Metro: The Orange Line’s Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Station connects the city to Washington, D.C. via Metrorail.
- By Air: Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is about 25 minutes away; Reagan National Airport (DCA) is around 35 minutes.
Where to Stay in Fairfax, VA
- Recommended for Families: Hyatt House Falls Church/Merrifield – Apartment-style suites near Mosaic District with breakfast and a pool.
- For Business or Comfort: Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax – Conveniently located with spacious rooms and full-service amenities.
- For a Boutique Feel: The Archer Hotel Tysons – Chic and upscale, located just a short drive from Fairfax in Tysons Corner.
Best Things to Do in Fairfax, VA
1. Stroll Through Blooming Landscapes at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens for a Nature Escape
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, established in 1992, span across ninety-five acres of unique native collections of plants and ornamental display gardens. Visitors can explore the local fauna and flora among the winding walking paths, forests, and lakes. Amazing views of the area’s Piedmont hills can be seen as well. Guests can also explore a restored log cabin from the eighteenth century, the Korean Bell Garden, and the Atrium, containing an interesting indoor tropical garden. The Meadowlark Botanical Gardens also host several events throughout the year, including the yearly Winter Walk of Lights with dozens of different light displays.
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA 22182, Phone: 703-255-3631
2. Ignite Young Minds With Hands-On Fun at Children's Science Center Lab
The Children's Science Center Lab in Fairfax is an interactive center for exploration, designed for children, school groups, and families. It is a place where kids can learn about mathematics, engineering, technology, and science in a fun and exciting way. The Lab features both dynamic platforms and traditional interactive exhibits for learning that include activities that frequently change. Visitors can sit down at a stool and order from the rotating choices of experiments at the Experiment Bar. These experiments demonstrate the fundamentals of physics, chemistry, biology, and more. Among the many other exhibits and platforms is the Inspiration Hub.
11948 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, VA 22033, Phone: 703-648-3130
For teens and tweens
3. Step Into Espionage and History at the Cold War Museum
The Cold War Museum in the city of Fairfax, Virginia is home to several different exhibits on various topics related to the Cold War. The museum also houses a main gallery, a small theater, study areas, a library, a gift store, and a picture gallery. The central hall at the Cold War Museum is full of exhibits. This hall includes various objects from the Berlin Airlift, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Bay of Pigs, the U-2 Incident, the USS Liberty, the USS Pueblo, and the USMLM. Links to newsletters, photograph galleries, virtual exhibits, and other collections can be seen online as well.
7142 Lineweaver Rd, Vint Hill, VA 20187, Phone: 540-341-2008, (website link)
4. If You Love Local Finds, Browse the Community Farmers' Market for Fresh Goods
The Fairfax Community Farmers' Market is a large outdoor market where farmers and other vendors can showcase and sell their crafts, meats, vegetables, fruits, and other products. The Saturday Community Market is open from eight in the morning until one in the afternoon, typically running from the middle of May to the end of October. The Community Farmer’s Market takes place whether the weather is rain or sunshine. The market on Saturdays includes plants, vegetables, fruits, honey, jams, flowering baskets, and cut flowers. Visitors can also find fresh-squeezed juices, kettle corn, bakery items, teas, coffees, cheeses, dog treats, and much more.
10500 Page Ave, Fairfax, VA 22030, Phone: 703-430-6164
5. Explore Local Heritage at the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center
The Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, owned and operated by Historic Fairfax City Inc., is dedicated to the promotion of the preservation and appreciation of the artifacts and local history of Fairfax, Virginia. The regional history museum and visitor center for the state of Virginia is housed inside of a school building that dates back to the year 1873. The museum displays information and exhibits about Fairfax during the time of the Civil War. Walking tours are also available of Historic Fairfax during the springs and fall seasons, including sites like the Ford House, the Fairfax County Courthouse, and others.
10209 Main St, Fairfax, VA 22030, Phone: 703-385-8414
6. Travel Back in Time at Fairfax Station Railroad Museum for a Train-Lover’s Delight
The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum offers visitors and locals alike in Fairfax a chance to journey back to the past and explore the role the Fairfax railroad station played throughout the history of northern Virginia. Since its completion in the year 1854, the station played a key role in the development of the economy of the region. It was also a center for the local community and was critical during the Civil War. The events, activities, and displays of the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum help with the preservation of local history, as well as promote the railroad.
11200 Fairfax Station Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, Phone: 703-425-9225
Where to Eat
7. Savor Cozy Sips and Bites at De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches
De Clieu Coffee and Sandwiches is dedicated to offering its customers delicious tasting coffee made from high quality Arabic beans. The coffee shop and cafe supports local roasters who make high quality coffee while also maintaining a carbon footprint that is small in size. The coffee beans are roasted in small batches, with a focus on naturally processed Indonesian and African coffees. The coffees feature subtle chocolate notes and intense fruit flavors. Coffee beans are freshly roasted to bring out the flavors.
10389 Main St, Fairfax, VA 22030, Phone: 703-591-0309, (website link)
8. If You’re Craving Irish Pub Vibes, Head to The Auld Shebeen for Food and Music
The Auld Shebeen brings “the spirit of The Shebeen” to Fairfax, Virginia. It is the only authentic Irish restaurant and pub in the city, and offers a menu that combines American cuisine with traditional Irish recipes. Guests can find several traditional Irish dishes, including the restaurant’s signature Guinness Beef Stew, Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and Chips, and many other house specialties. The Main Level of The Auld Shebeen boasts a low-key atmosphere, while The Cellar provides more of a party vibe.
3971 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030, Phone: 703-293-9600
9. Experience World-Class Performances at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
The Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts is the country’s only national park that is dedicated to the presentation of the performing arts. The park offers something for nearly any taste or age of visitors when it comes to the shows it hosts. From the month of May until the month of September, several amphitheaters throughout Wolf Trap present a variety of performances, such as country music, popular music, jazz, opera, dance, and musicals. Visitors can enjoy an array of experiences, including performances at the Theatre-in-the-Woods or Filene Center, a walk on the trails, and ranger-guided programs.
1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182, Phone: 703-255-1800, (website link)
If you are interested in local events:
- For Festival Fans: Fairfax City Fall Festival (October) – Vendors, food, music, and crafts at one of the region’s best-attended events.
- For Music Lovers: Rock the Block (Summer) – Monthly concerts, food trucks, and beer gardens in Old Town Square.
- For Holiday Cheer: Fairfax City Holiday Market (December) – European-style holiday village with gifts, lights, and seasonal treats.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Fairfax, Virginia:
- For Monument Lovers: Washington, D.C. (25–30 min) – Explore Smithsonian museums, monuments, and historic neighborhoods.
- For Nature Lovers: Great Falls Park (25–30 min) – Hike, photograph, or picnic near dramatic waterfalls and Potomac River views.
- For Shoppers: Tysons Corner Center (20–25 min) – Northern Virginia’s biggest mall with luxury brands and restaurants.
- For History Fans: Mount Vernon (30 min) – Tour George Washington’s riverside estate and learn about life in early America.
- For Family Fun: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens (30 min) – Beautiful gardens, walking trails, and seasonal displays in Vienna.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Why is Fairfax a great destination for a day trip?
- Fairfax is just a stone’s throw away from the capital of the United States, making it a unique day trip from the city.
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What attractions are near Fairfax?
- In addition to the many attractions in Washington, DC, Fairfax boasts quite a number of things to do as well.
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What activities can visitors enjoy in Fairfax?
- From outdoor activities to museums, the city and surrounding Fairfax County offer a little bit of everything.
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Is Fairfax a good destination for those who love sweets?
- Anyone with a sweet tooth will love a visit to Fairfax with its array of sweet shops.
Map:
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