Herndon, Virginia

Looking for small-town charm near D.C. with trails, events, and historic flair? Head to Herndon, Virginia! Nestled in Northern Virginia’s tech corridor, Herndon offers a mix of quaint downtown, green spaces, and easy access to the Washington, D.C. metro area. It’s perfect for both business travelers and weekend explorers.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Herndon is in spring and fall (April–June and September–October), when the weather is pleasant and events are in full swing. Summer is warm and lively, while winter is mild with festive charm.

How to Get There

• By Air: Fly into Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), just 10 minutes from Herndon.
• By Car: Herndon is easily accessible via VA-267 and VA-28, about 25 miles west of Washington, D.C.
• By Metro: The Silver Line’s Herndon Station provides direct access to D.C. and surrounding areas.

Where to Stay

• Hyatt Regency Dulles – Modern hotel with airport shuttle, restaurant, and comfortable business-friendly amenities.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Dulles Airport – Spacious suites with complimentary breakfast and evening receptions.
• SpringHill Suites Herndon Reston – Clean, convenient lodging near downtown Herndon and the W&OD Trail.

Top Attractions

Attractions for First Time Visitors

• Herndon Historic District – Explore the town’s roots through charming architecture, shops, and the historic Herndon Depot Museum.
• W&OD Trail – This paved rail-trail is a favorite for biking, jogging, and walking through scenic Northern Virginia.
• Frying Pan Farm Park – Family-friendly park and working farm with animals, historic buildings, and seasonal events.
• NextStop Theatre Company – Intimate performance space showcasing high-quality plays, musicals, and local talent.

Where to Eat

• Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern – Beloved local hangout with hearty pub fare, sports, and regular live music.
• A Taste of the World – Global cuisine served in a casual setting, featuring dishes from Southeast Asia, Latin America, and beyond.
• Amphora’s Diner Deluxe – 24-hour diner serving everything from comfort food to Greek specialties and baked goods.

Local Events

• Herndon Festival (May/June) – Major annual event with live music, carnival rides, food, and artisan vendors.
• Friday Night Live! (Summer) – Free outdoor concerts in downtown Herndon with food trucks and fun vibes.
• Holiday Tree Lighting & Winter Market (December) – Celebrate the season with local crafts, treats, and lights downtown.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Herndon, Virginia

• Reston Town Center (10–15 min) – Shop national brands, dine at upscale restaurants, or enjoy seasonal outdoor events.
• Great Falls Park (20–25 min) – Hike rocky trails and view dramatic waterfalls along the Potomac River gorge.
• Sully Historic Site (15–20 min) – Tour a preserved 18th-century plantation house and walk wooded nature trails.
• Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – Udvar-Hazy Center (10–15 min) – Explore massive aircraft, space shuttles, and flight simulators in this aviation museum near Dulles Airport.
• Meadowlark Botanical Gardens (10–15 min) – Wander through themed gardens, woodland trails, and a serene Korean Bell Garden.
• Historic Downtown Herndon (0–5 min) – Stroll brick sidewalks, grab a coffee, and explore local shops and the historic rail depot.
• Lake Fairfax Park (15–20 min) – Enjoy boating, mountain biking, hiking, or cooling off at the summer waterpark.
• Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts (20–25 min) – Catch a concert or show at the country’s only national park for the performing arts.
• Runnymede Park (5–10 min) – Birdwatch, walk wooded trails, or attend nature programs at this peaceful local park.
• Vienna Historic District (20–25 min) – Explore small-town charm with shops, trails, and classic eateries along Church Street.

FAQ

• What activities can visitors enjoy in Herndon?
  • From theatre to art galleries to a variety of cuisine, the town of Herndon offers several different things to do for both visitors and locals alike.
• What is the atmosphere like in Herndon?
  • Boasting a small town atmosphere and charm, Herndon is a pre-Civil War town, only a little more than twenty miles away from downtown Washington, D.C. in Fairfax County.
• What dining options are available in Herndon?
  • Visitors will find many opportunities for international cuisine in and around the downtown district.
• What performances and events are hosted in Herndon?
  • The NextStop Theatre Company hosts a wide variety of performances and shows, while the town itself hosts numerous special events throughout the year.

At a Glance

Best Time to Visit	Places to Stay	Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and cherry blossoms, perfect for outdoor activities.	Hyatt Regency Dulles – A stylish and convenient stay near the airport.	Visit Frying Pan Farm Park – Enjoy farm animals, history, and spring festivals.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and lively, great for outdoor concerts and local events.	Embassy Suites by Hilton Dulles Airport – A comfortable stay with spacious suites.	Explore the Herndon Festival – Enjoy live music, food, and carnival rides.
Fall (September-November) – Cool and colorful, perfect for scenic drives and wine tours.	Washington Dulles Marriott Suites – A great option for fall travelers.	Visit the Reston Town Center – A top spot for dining, shopping, and seasonal events.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and festive, great for holiday markets and cozy retreats.	Hilton Washington Dulles Airport – A convenient and welcoming stay.	Ice skate at Reston Town Center – A fun winter activity for all ages.

Plan Your Trip

Table of Contents:

• 1. Catch an Intimate Performance at NextStop Theatre Company
• 2. If You’re Seeking Local Creativity and Community, Visit Arts Herndon