Fairfax, Virginia is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. But did you know that it’s also a great place to take a weekend getaway? With its proximity to Washington, D.C. and other major cities, Fairfax offers a variety of activities and attractions to please everyone in your group.

Here are ideas for a 3-day trip from Fairfax:

Explore the City of Fairfax and Its Surroundings

Day 1

Start your day by taking a stroll through historic downtown Fairfax. This charming area is full of unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Take some time to explore the nearby George Mason University campus and take in the beauty of its gardens and sculptures.

When you’re ready, hop on the Fairfax County Parkway and visit Wolf Trap National Park. Here you can take in a performance at the outdoor amphitheater or enjoy a picnic lunch while admiring the incredible views of the woods and meadows. Afterward, head back to downtown Fairfax for dinner and drinks.

Day 2

Spend the day in our nation’s capital and explore all that it has to offer. Start with a guided tour of the monuments, memorials, and government buildings on The National Mall.

Then take a boat ride down the Potomac River to catch some amazing views of this great city. For dinner, enjoy the delicious variety of international cuisines at the many restaurants in D.C.’s Chinatown. End your day with a show at one of the city’s many theaters or take in some live music at one of its great music venues.

Day 3

Enjoy your last day by visiting some of Fairfax’s top attractions. Stop by the Lorton Workhouse Art Center to admire its impressive collection of contemporary art from around the world.

Or spend some time at The National Firearms Museum admiring its fascinating collection of arms and artifacts. Then take a leisurely drive out to Great Falls Park for a picnic lunch and hike along one of the park’s many trails.

End your trip with a relaxing evening at one of Fairfax’s top spa resorts, where you can indulge in some pampering and truly unwind.

Enjoy a Day of Unforgettable History

Day 1

Start your day with a visit to the Arlington National Cemetery. This hallowed ground is the final resting place for over 400,000 service members, including President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jacqueline.

After your visit to the cemetery, head to Downtown Washington, D.C. for lunch. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, so you’re sure to find something to everyone’s taste.

In the afternoon, take a walk through The National Mall. This iconic park is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian Museums.

In the evening, catch a show at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This world-renowned performing arts center offers a variety of shows, including plays, musicals, and concerts.

Day 2

Start your day with a visit to the National Air and Space Museum. This museum is home to a variety of aircraft and spacecraft, including the Spirit of St. Louis and the Apollo 11 command module.

After your visit to the museum, head to Georgetown for lunch. This historic neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

In the afternoon, enjoying walking through Old Town Alexandria. This charming town is located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. and is home to a variety of historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.

In the evening, catch a movie at the AMC Mazza Gallerie. This movie theater is in the Mazza Gallerie shopping mall and offers a variety of movies.

Day 3

Start your day with a visit to the National Zoo. This zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.

After your visit to the zoo, head to Reston Town Center for lunch. This outdoor shopping center is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.

In the afternoon, take a walk around Great Falls Park. This park is home to the stunning Great Falls of the Potomac River, which are a must-see for any visitor to the area.

In the evening, have dinner at one of Fairfax’s many restaurants. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, so you’re sure to find something to everyone’s taste.

With so many things to see and do in and around Fairfax, you’re sure to have a great time no matter what you choose to do. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today.