Things To Do
in Reston
Reston, Virginia is a meticulously planned suburban town in Fairfax County, founded in the 1960s as a model urban village concept. It features interconnected lakes, extensive green space, and pedestrian-friendly centers like Reston Town Center and Lake Anne Plaza. The area blends corporate campuses, residential neighborhoods, and cultural venues with easy access to Washington, DC.
Visitors will find a calm, family-oriented atmosphere paired with diverse dining and outdoor recreation options.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Reston by exploring the scenic trails around Lake Anne. Enjoy a morning stroll along the picturesque waterfront, where you can appreciate the local art installations and lush greenery. Grab a coffee from a nearby café to fuel your day ahead.
After lunch, visit the Reston Town Center, a vibrant hub filled with shops, galleries, and dining options. Take your time browsing through local stores and perhaps catch a local artisan demonstration. Don't forget to enjoy a light snack at one of the outdoor patios.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the lake, where you can sample delicious local cuisine. Afterward, attend a live performance at the Reston Community Center or enjoy a movie at the nearby cinema. Cap off the evening with a leisurely walk around the beautifully lit town center.
Kick off your day with a hike through the scenic natural trails of the Reston National Golf Course. Absorb the tranquility of nature while observing local wildlife that inhabits the area. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at one of the lookout points along your trek.
Spend some time at the Walker Nature Center, where you can engage with exhibits about the local ecosystem and participate in guided nature walks. Explore the nearby nature trails and take in the serene environment. Consider joining an afternoon workshop on environmental conservation.
Return to Reston and relax with a leisurely dinner at a restaurant that offers outdoor seating. Enjoy a taste of local wines or craft beers as you unwind from the day's adventures. Participate in an evening yoga session at one of the local studios to reconnect with your inner self.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍕Pizza for two | $15-25 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,800-2,400/mo |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe, family-friendly with strong public amenities
- Excellent access to parks, lakes, and the Washington, DC metro area
- Higher cost of living compared to national average
- Traffic during peak commuting hours and during events at town centers
Places to Visit in Reston
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic waterfront plaza with public art, reflections on the water, and picturesque views around the lake.
Modern plaza featuring water works and seasonal lighting—great for urban photography and night shots.
Shaded nature trails and a wooden boardwalk along streams, ideal for nature and wildlife photography.
Open lakeside viewpoints with birds, grasses, and sunset silhouettes over the water.
Food in Reston
Reston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular take at Reston-area Middle Eastern and Mediterranean spots; typically served with rice or pita, veggies, and sauces.
Must-Try!
A comforting Vietnamese soup with rice noodles, herbs, and beef or chicken, widely available at Asian restaurants in Reston.
A vegetarian Indian dish featuring chickpeas in spiced tomato sauce, commonly found in Indian restaurants in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, artisanal foods, and ready-to-eat snacks; a great place to sample seasonal bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and courtesy go a long way; politeness is appreciated when asking for help or information.
Keep noise reasonable in residential areas, leash dogs where required, and recycle waste properly. Respect posted rules in parks and trails.
Safety
Tipping in Reston
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tipping is customary for service. Typical tips are 15-20% at dining, with higher amounts for exceptional service. Small tips to bartenders or spa staff are common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Carry some cash for farmers markets or small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take advantage of shaded trails and evening strolls near the lakes.
Mild days with vibrant foliage; ideal for hiking and photography around lakes and parks. Nights can be cool.
Cold temperatures with occasional snow. Indoor attractions and cultural venues are popular; layer up for outdoor exploration.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for gardens and outdoor trails; expect intermittent rain.
Reston at Night
Hiking in Reston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic Potomac River trails with dramatic overlooks and cascading falls.
Forested trails and naturalist programs suitable for families and hikers.
Family-friendly hikes and scenic viewpoints reachable within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Reston by plane.
Approximately 20-35 miles from Reston, a major international gateway with quick access via toll roads and regional highways.
About 25-30 miles away in Arlington; convenient for domestic and regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children participate in local schools, community centers, and parks.
A sizable portion work in tech, government, and professional services due to Reston’s proximity to DC and business campuses.
A multicultural population contributing to a vibrant, global dining scene and varied cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played organized and pick-up sport with many local gyms and community leagues.
Popular in parks and clubs with both youth and adult leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Reston’s dining scene makes it easy to eat vegetarian: look for veggie bowls, lentil-based curries, tofu/paneer dishes, and ask for dairy-free options.