Herndon
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Herndon's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the Herndon Historical Society Museum to immerse yourself in the rich local heritage. After exploring the exhibits, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Old Town, appreciating the charming architecture. Stop by a local café for breakfast and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
In the afternoon, head over to the Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park for a relaxing hike or bike ride along the scenic trails. This park offers beautiful views and is a great spot for picnicking, so consider packing a lunch to enjoy outdoors. Alternatively, visit a local farmers' market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods.
As the sun sets, dine at one of Herndon's diverse restaurants, where you can savor a variety of cuisines. After dinner, catch a live music performance at a nearby venue or theater, showcasing local talent. Wind down your evening with a walk in the nearby Bready Park, where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings.
Begin your day at the Frying Pan Farm Park, where you can meet farm animals and explore the historic buildings. Participating in a guided hayride offers insights into agricultural life while your kids enjoy hands-on activities. Afterward, grab brunch at a local diner that emphasizes farm-to-table ingredients.
In the afternoon, visit the ArtSpace Herndon for a dose of local creativity, featuring rotating art exhibits and community events. Join a workshop if available, or simply enjoy browsing the artworks on display. Following your artistic adventure, head to a nearby park for some relaxation and perhaps a game of frisbee.
Conclude the day with a cozy dinner at a restaurant known for its ambiance and local ingredients. After your meal, consider visiting the Herndon Center Theater to catch a live performance or movie showing. Enjoy a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the community vibe.
Kick off your morning with a visit to the Rachel Carson Conservation Park, where you can hike through beautiful trails and spot native wildlife. Early morning walks provide an excellent opportunity for peaceful reflection and photography. Bring along your coffee to enjoy in nature as you breathe in the fresh air.
After your outdoor adventure, consider an afternoon visit to the nearby Algonkian Regional Park for a picnic by the Potomac River. Spend some time on the water with kayak rentals or enjoy family-friendly activities like mini-golf. The serene setting is perfect for unwinding and having fun.
Return to Herndon for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant serving classic American dishes. Afterward, stroll through the local shops, which may host evening events or sales. End your day at a cozy café or dessert shop, treating yourself to something sweet.
Start the day at the Reston Town Center, which is just a short drive from Herndon, where you can explore local shops and enjoy breakfast. The vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to mingle with locals while sampling various pastries. After breakfast, pop into one of the art galleries to appreciate local talent.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, to see incredible aircraft and space artifacts. Enjoy the interactive exhibits and an IMAX show for an immersive experience. Take a break for lunch at the museum café.
Return to Herndon for a relaxing dinner at a restaurant offering international cuisine to savor diverse flavors. Look for any local events happening that evening, from food festivals to community gatherings. Cap off your experience with a scenic drive around the town to take in the night lights.
Gather the family and start your day at the Herndon Community Center, where everyone can enjoy various activities from swimming to sports. It’s a fantastic way to energize for the day ahead. Grab breakfast at the center or pack your own to enjoy a picnic outdoors.
The afternoon is perfect for a visit to the nearbyLake Fairfax Park, where you can have fun with paddle boats, picnicking, or exploring the trails. The park is family-friendly and often hosts seasonal events, so check the schedule for any happenings. After a day filled with outdoor activities, the whole family will have built up an appetite.
Return to Herndon for a hearty family dinner at a restaurant with a kid-friendly menu. Afterward, participate in a family game night at the community center or take a scenic evening walk at one of the nearby parks. Share highlights of the day over dessert from a local ice cream shop.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a popular local brunch spot known for its vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, spend some time exploring the shops in downtown Herndon, where you'll find a mix of charming boutiques and larger retail stores. The morning is perfect for picking up souvenirs or gifts.
In the afternoon, indulge in a spa treatment or wellness session at a nearby wellness center, focusing on rejuvenating mind and body. Many spas in the area offer a variety of services, including massages, facials, and relaxation therapies. After your treatment, enjoy light refreshments at the spa café.
Dine at a restaurant known for its chic decor and innovative cuisine, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Post-dinner, explore the local entertainment scene, which may include live music, trivia nights, or theater performances. Wrap up your evening by relaxing at a local wine bar, sampling exquisite local or international selections.
Start your day by exploring any local weekend events or farmer's markets that may be taking place, filled with fresh produce and homemade goods. This is an excellent opportunity to interact with local vendors and secure some breakfast items. Enjoy a leisurely morning sampling some treats while exploring the vibrant atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit local craft markets or festivals to appreciate handmade crafts and artisanal foods. Engaging with artisans provides insights into local culture and creativity and often offers unique items that you won't find in stores. Take breaks between shopping to enjoy live demonstrations or performances.
Savor dinner at a trendy bistro that may offer you the chance to dine al fresco, taking in the local ambiance. After your meal, visit one of the local theaters for a community play or film screening. Wind down your night with a stroll around the beautifully lit town, taking in the sights and sounds.
Dedicate your morning to visiting the Historic Herndon Depot and the nearby Train Station to learn about the town's railroad history. The depot offers insightful exhibits and is a charming spot to capture photos. After the museum, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local diner filled with mid-century decor.
Take an afternoon walking tour of the notable historical landmarks around Herndon, perhaps with a guide for deeper insights. Learn stories of the past while enjoying the beautiful architecture and local parks along the way. Pause for tea or coffee in a historic building that’s been transformed into a café.
In the evening, dine at a restaurant with historic significance or a well-known local eatery that boasts a rich legacy. Look for any evening lectures or historical reenactments happening at local venues. End your day with a contemplative walk through the old neighborhoods, reflecting on what you've learned.
Start your day on a serene note by having breakfast at a café overlooking a local park or nature inlet. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you sip your coffee and plan your day. It's the perfect time to brainstorm some personal reflections while writing in a journal.
Visit the nearby Reston Zoo for an enjoyable afternoon connecting with nature and animals, offering an excellent balance to your relaxing morning. Engage with the animals firsthand, exploring their habitats in a laid-back environment. Post-zoo adventure, find a quiet spot for a light lunch, allowing for a moment of peace.
For your final evening, indulge in a peaceful dinner at a thoughtfully curated restaurant that emphasizes seasonal ingredients. Post-dinner, consider engaging in a local yoga or meditation session to reflect on your trip. End with a charming walk under the stars, feeling grateful for your experiences in Herndon.