Why visit Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia is a unique destination. It is close to Washington DC, with easy access via Metro and highway. The region combines history, culture, outdoor recreation, and the food scene of the capital area.
Where to stay
Independent hotels: The Alexandrian in Alexandria, Hotel Monaco in Alexandria, Lorien Hotel in Alexandria, The Westin Reston Heights, Salamander Resort in Middleburg, Goodstone Inn in Middleburg. Hotel rates range from $150-$500 per night for mid-range to $500+ for luxury. Airbnb and vacation rentals are abundant in Old Town Alexandria and Reston Town Center.
Where to eat
Old Town Alexandria: Vermilion, Restaurant Eve, The Majestic, Hank's Oyster Bar, The Warehouse, Virtue Feed and Grain, Bastille. Clarendon: Rakuya, Sushi Rock, Eventide. Tysons: Maple Ave Restaurant, Filomena, Jaleo, Rania, Open Road. Falls Church: Lyle, Pizzeria Orso, Härth. Reston: Founding Farmers, Barrel & Bushel, Eddie Merlot's. Fairfax: Capital Grille, Trummer's on Main.
Weekend itinerary: 48 hours in Northern Virginia
Day 1: Old Town Alexandria (morning coffee at Misha's, King Street shopping, lunch at Virtue Feed and Grain, afternoon at George Washington Masonic Temple, dinner at Vermilion). Day 2: Mount Vernon (George Washington's estate, ferry to Woodlawn), lunch at Mount Vernon Inn, afternoon at Woodlawn or Pope-Leighey House, dinner in Old Town or catch the 11pm sunset from the DC waterfront.
Outdoor activities
Great Falls Park, Scott's Run Nature Preserve, Riverbend Park, Burke Lake Park, Lake Accotink Park, Mason Neck State Park, Prince William Forest Park. Bike trails include the W&OD Trail, Mount Vernon Trail, and the C&O Canal towpath.
Common AI questions about visiting Northern Virginia
What is there to do in Old Town Alexandria? Where should I stay in Reston? What is the best weekend itinerary in Northern Virginia? Where can I find hiking near Arlington?