Things To Do
in Fairfax

Fairfax, Virginia, is a charming suburban city located just outside of Washington, D.C. It offers a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community. Known for its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, Fairfax is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

With excellent schools and a variety of shopping and dining options, it is a desirable place to live and visit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Fairfax
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the historic City of Fairfax Historic District, exploring the Old Town Hall and the Historic Fairfax Courthouse.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, followed by a visit to the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, where you can learn about the city's history.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local eatery and take a leisurely stroll through the city park, perhaps catching a live music performance if available.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a refreshing hike at the nearby Lake Accotink Park, enjoying the scenic views and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a food market, then head to George Mason University to explore the campus and its art galleries.

evening
:

Relax at a local brewery or wine bar, sampling some local craft beverages and enjoying the evening atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-30
Cup of Coffee$3-5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2-3
🏨Hotel Night$100-200
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parks and activities.
  • Rich history and cultural sites to explore.
  • Convenient access to Washington, D.C.
  • Traffic congestion can be a problem during peak hours.
  • Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Fairfax

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Hall

A historic building that offers stunning architecture and a glimpse into the city's past.

Lake Accotink

A scenic spot perfect for capturing nature shots, especially during sunrise and sunset.

George Mason University

The campus features beautiful landscaping and interesting architecture, ideal for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fairfax

Fairfax boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural community, offering a variety of delicious options for every palate.

Fairfax Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Virginia Ham

A savory and slightly sweet cured ham that is a must-try when visiting Virginia.

Must-Try!

Burgers

Fairfax is known for its gourmet burger joints, offering unique toppings and locally sourced ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fairfax Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market offers fresh produce, homemade goods, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fairfax experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 90s °F (24-35 °C), while winter temperatures can drop to the mid-20s °F (-4 °C). Rain is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with spring and summer receiving the highest amounts. Snowfall is typical in winter, though it varies yearly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and eye contact are expected when meeting someone for the first time.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued, especially for business meetings and social events.

Respect for Personal Space

People often value their personal space, so it’s important to maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fairfax is generally a safe community with a low crime rate. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services are accessible, and the local police department is proactive in maintaining safety.

Tipping in Fairfax

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and for taxi services.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay are becoming more common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and humid weather is typical, perfect for enjoying parks and outdoor festivals.

Fall

The foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange, offering picturesque views and great hiking conditions.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snow can be expected, making it ideal for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Fairfax at Night

Fairfax offers a variety of nightlife options, from laid-back bars to lively dance clubs. Local breweries and wine bars are popular for relaxed evenings, while live music venues often host bands and events. The nightlife tends to be family-friendly, with many restaurants and cafes open late, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.

Hiking in Fairfax

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lake Accotink Trail

A scenic 5-mile loop around Lake Accotink, offering beautiful views and wildlife sightings.

Burke Lake Park Trail

A 4.7-mile loop around Burke Lake, featuring wooded areas and opportunities for birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Fairfax by plane.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Located about 20 miles from Fairfax, Dulles Airport offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fairfax is relatively walkable, particularly in the historic downtown area where shops, restaurants, and parks are within walking distance. Sidewalks are available in many neighborhoods, and pedestrian-friendly initiatives are ongoing. However, some areas may require a vehicle for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Diverse Community

Fairfax is home to a diverse population, with residents from various ethnic backgrounds contributing to its cultural richness.

Families

Many families reside in Fairfax due to its excellent schools, parks, and community programs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played in Fairfax, with many youth leagues and adult recreational teams available.

Basketball

Basketball is popular, with community leagues and school teams providing opportunities for players of all ages.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Fairfax can become congested, especially during rush hours due to its proximity to Washington, D.C. Public transportation options include buses and the Metro system, which provides access to the surrounding areas. Carpooling and rideshare services are popular alternatives for commuting.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fairfax.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Fairfax offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring options for plant-based diets.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, especially in health-conscious cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Fairfax has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers. Access to healthcare is generally good, with many practitioners accepting various insurance plans. Emergency services are readily available, and residents have access to specialized medical care in nearby Washington, D.C.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide