Fairfax

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the heart of Fairfax, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and pastries. After breakfast, stroll through the historic downtown area, where you can admire charming architecture and visit unique boutique shops. Don't forget to stop by the historic Fairfax Courthouse for a glimpse into the city's past.

After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves delicious farm-to-table dishes. Spend the afternoon visiting the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, where you can learn about the city's rich history and heritage. Take a leisurely walk through the adjacent Historic Blenheim Estate to appreciate its beautiful gardens and intriguing Civil War history.

As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for a tasting of craft beers brewed right in Fairfax. Enjoy a casual dinner at a family-owned restaurant that highlights regional cuisine, allowing you to experience the local flavors. Wrap up the evening with a stroll through the downtown area to take in the charming ambiance and perhaps catch some live music.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of outdoor adventure. Head to the nearby Fairfax County parks for a morning hike on the picturesque trails, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The fresh air and serene environment will set a positive tone for your day.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks within the parks after your hike. After lunch, explore more trails or rent a bike to discover the area's scenic views from a different perspective. The afternoon can also be spent birdwatching or taking photographs of the vibrant wildlife.

As the day winds down, return to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Choose a restaurant that offers outdoor seating to enjoy the pleasant evening weather. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through one of the parks or along a nature trail to unwind and reflect on your day.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café known for its artistic atmosphere, where you can fuel up with artisanal coffee and unique breakfast dishes. Visit the Workhouse Arts Center, where you can explore various galleries showcasing local artists' work and even participate in a workshop. Immerse yourself in the creative vibe that fills the air.

Grab lunch at a nearby eatery that offers a variety of international cuisine, allowing you to taste flavors from around the world. Post-lunch, head to the George Mason University to see if there are any art exhibits or performances scheduled, as this vibrant campus often hosts cultural events. Spend the afternoon absorbing the local art scene and perhaps even catching a live performance.

For dinner, find a trendy restaurant that features live music while you dine, allowing you to enjoy a feast for both your taste buds and your ears. After dinner, visit a local theater or venue to catch a play or concert, immersing yourself in the local cultural scene. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar nearby.

After enjoying breakfast at a popular brunch spot, head to the Fair Oaks Mall for a day of shopping. Explore a variety of stores from high-end retailers to unique local shops, ensuring you find something special to take home. As you shop, take breaks to enjoy snacks and people-watch in this bustling environment.

For lunch, indulge at one of the mall’s trendy restaurants offering diverse culinary options. Post-lunch, visit some local markets or artisanal shops to sample local delicacies and perhaps grab some gourmet treats. Spend your afternoon exploring the food scene, tasting everything from homemade chocolates to fresh produce.

As the evening approaches, reserve a table at a renowned local restaurant known for its innovative dishes and excellent service. Savor a multi-course dinner showcasing seasonal ingredients, allowing your taste buds to experience the best of Fairfax's culinary offerings. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk around the mall area or head to a dessert shop to treat yourself to something sweet.

Kick off your family fun day with a hearty breakfast at a family-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of breakfast options. After breakfast, head to the National Firearms Museum to explore exhibits that are sure to captivate both kids and adults alike. The interactive displays will not only educate but also entertain everyone in the family.

For lunch, pack a picnic or dine at a casual eatery that caters to families, offering kid-friendly menus. Spend the afternoon at the nearby George Mason University’s campus, where you can enjoy outdoor games or visit the local playgrounds. The kids can let off steam while parents relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

As the sun sets, head to a local pizzeria for a delicious family dinner, where everyone can indulge in their favorite toppings. After dinner, consider visiting a nearby arcade or bowling alley for some fun family competition. End the evening with ice cream from a local shop, capping off a day filled with laughter and joy.

Kickstart your day with a nutritious breakfast at a local café, then prepare for a day immersed in nature. Head to one of the nearby parks, such as Burke Lake Park, where you can enjoy walking trails and scenic views of the lake. The fresh morning air and natural beauty will invigorate you for the adventures ahead.

Pack a lunch to enjoy at a picnic table by the lake or opt for a meal at a park café. After lunch, engage in outdoor activities such as paddle boating, fishing, or hiking the nature trails to explore the local flora and fauna. The afternoon is perfect for enjoying leisure time surrounded by the tranquility of nature.

As the day winds down, return to your accommodation to refresh before dinner. Choose a nearby restaurant known for its comfortable atmosphere and hearty meals, perfect after a day spent outdoors. Finish your evening with a night hike or a stargazing session at the park, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the night sky.

Fuel up with a healthy breakfast at a local smoothie bar before heading to one of the sports complexes in the area. Spend your morning participating in activities such as tennis, basketball, or even a family-friendly game of soccer at a local park. Getting active early will energize you for the rest of the day ahead.

After a fun morning of sports, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery that caters to athletes and health-conscious diners. In the afternoon, consider joining a local fitness class or workshop, ranging from yoga to martial arts, to continue your active day. There are often community events, so check local listings for special activities you can join.

As evening approaches, gather at a sports bar for dinner, where you can enjoy classic game-day food while watching a live sports event. Share stories from your active day and cheer on your favorite teams with fellow sports enthusiasts. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk around the area to cool down and reflect on your exciting day of sports.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, then prepare for a day of wine exploration. Head to one of the nearby vineyards, such as the Paradise Springs Winery, where you can enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard. Learn about the winemaking process while taking in the stunning views of the rolling hills and grapevines.

After the tour, indulge in a wine tasting session, sampling a variety of local wines paired with cheese and charcuterie. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the vineyard, where you can savor farm-to-table dishes made with local ingredients. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the vineyard's beautiful outdoor spaces, perhaps playing games or enjoying live music if offered.

As the day winds down, return to Fairfax for an elegant dinner at a restaurant known for its exquisite wine list and gourmet cuisine. Share your favorite wine experiences from the day and unwind in a cozy setting. Conclude your evening with dessert and a nightcap, reflecting on a day filled with delicious flavors and beautiful scenery.