THE ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
Fairfax County enjoys the best of both worlds with proximity to Washington, DC and a unique history of its own. Step back in time at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. Revel in the supersonic appeal of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Experience the arts at the historic Workhouse Arts Center and take in magical outdoor music performances at Wolf Trap. Great shopping, truly eclectic cuisine along with craft beer and wine are awaiting your group.
George Washingtons Mount Vernon
Enjoy These Great Fairfax Country Attractions and More:
- George Washington’s Mount Vernon
- Workhouse Arts Center
- Mosaic District
- Great Falls Park
- Tysons Corner Center
- Mustang Sally Brewing Company
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Great Falls Park credit Visit Fairfax
FAIRFAX COUNTRY DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: IN FAIRFAX COUNTY
Begin at our nation’s first Presidential Estate, George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Built along the Potomac River in Fairfax County, it remains the No. 1 most visited historic estate in the United States. Trace George Washington’s steps as you learn about his life in 25 interactive galleries and theaters.Stop for lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn – a restaurant that serves up dishes from Washington’s lifetime, including Virginia’s famous peanut soup recipe and a delicious pot pie.
Nearby, you’ll find Washington’s other passion, his Distillery and Gristmill. While the original structure was destroyed in a fire, this recreation is identical to its predecessor. Learn from the master distiller how Washington made his famous rye whiskey. The whiskey is still made today on property, using the exact method.
Next, visit another Founding Father’s home, George Mason’s Gunston Hall. Begin at the Visitor Center with an exploration of the exhibits, which highlight details of Mason’s civic career and the lasting influences of his most famous document, The Virginia Declaration of Rights.
Spend the remainder of your afternoon soaking in art at the historic Workhouse Arts Center. Formerly a prison, the Workhouse is now home to 65 of the region’s finest artists and offers engaging arts programs and performances.
Wrap up your day with a memorable dinner at the Mosaic District. This vibrant neighborhood features a rich collection of inspired culinary options and hand-picked local boutiques
Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center credit Visit Fairfax
DAY 2: OF ACTIVITIES IN FAIRFAX COUNTY
Experience the great outdoors at Great Falls Park. This 800-acre natural landmark is a must-see for lovers of the outdoors who enjoy hiking, bird watching, kayaking, rock climbing or seeing panoramic views of the dramatically cascading falls.
Travel to Vienna, home to one of the loveliest botanical gardens in the region, Meadowlark Gardens, with its recent addition of an authentic Korean Bell Garden, the only one of its kind in the Western Hemisphere.
Indulge in some retail therapy and lunch at Tysons Corner Center. Known as the Rodeo Drive of the East Coast, the Tysons shopping district is home to over 450 stores and group-friendly restaurants.
Take in a musical performance and picnic under the stars at Wolf Trap, the nation’s only national park dedicated to the performing arts.
DAY 3: OF THINGS TO DO IN VIRGINIA
Tour Sully Historic Site, home of Richard Bland Lee – Northern Virginia’s first Representative to Congress. Guided tours highlight the early 19th century life of the Lee family, tenant farmers and enslaved African Americans.Head into outer space by way of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Its two huge hangars display thousands of aviation and space artifacts. The center also offers the Airbus IMAX Theater and an observation tower with a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Groups can conveniently lunch at the museum’s food court.
Glory Days Grill Centreville is another dining option larger groups. For smaller groups (20 or less), Willards Real Pit BBQ is a local favorite.
Microbrewery fans are in for a treat with two of Fairfax’s seven craft breweries nearby. Mustang Sally Brewing Company is an independent craft brewery and has a large open tasting room, an exceptional lineup of craft beers and live music every Friday and Saturday evening. Ono Brewing Company has an expansive tasting room and features a unique self-serve beer wall that puts patrons in control of their craft beer tasting experience.
If you prefer wine, take a 20-minute drive southwest to Centreville to spend your afternoon at Fairfax County’s latest winery, The Winery at Bull Run.
For dinner, tuck into some of the best Korean food in the Washington D.C. Metro in Fairfax’s own Annandale neighborhood. Diners are spoiled with options ranging from all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue at Kogiya to Yechon’s Japanese-Korean dishes. Alternatively, visit The Block, an eclectic Asian-accented food hall where six vendors dish up Hawaiian poke, Filipino tacos, Taiwanese shaved ice, cocktails, and more.
Fairfax County and Virginia have plenty more to offer travel groups, so be sure to Get More Itinerary Ideas
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