Explore Fairfax: Hidden Gems, Outdoor Adventures & Local Favorites

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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)

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

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)