Alexandria
Step into Old Town Alexandria, a National Historic Landmark District that has also been recognized by Livability as the "Best Downtown in America." At the heart of it all is bustling King Street, with over a mile of independent shops and restaurants set amidst early-American architecture. Explore the intimate Museums on Market Square, such as Carlyle House and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. As you approach the Potomac River at the end of King Street, stop in to the Torpedo Factory Art Center, the nation's largest collection of working artists' studios in America. What's more, Alexandria is a perfect home base just minutes from all the world-class attractions of the DC region.
Arlington
Just across the river from Washington, D.C., Arlington welcomes international visitors with a local, easygoing perspective on the American capital region. Known for world-class landmarks such as Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington also stands out for its vibrant neighborhoods, contemporary architecture, arts and dining scene, and seamless access to the capital. Walkable streets, efficient public transportation, and an inviting community atmosphere make exploring simple and enjoyable. Whether your interests include history, culture, innovation, or everyday city life, it is all here and distinctly Arlington.
Fairfax County
Fairfax County is home to some of the Washington, DC and Northern Virginia area’s most memorable attractions, from George Washington’s Mount Vernon and the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts and Great Falls Park. Visitors can “Connect With America” through history, aviation, arts, and outdoor adventure, and then leave plenty of time to explore Tysons, one of the East Coast’s largest and most diverse shopping destinations, along with charming boutiques and locally loved finds throughout the county.
Loudoun
From the bike trail to the ale trail, to scenic vineyard views and historic small towns, discover how Loudoun is a must visit destination for lovers of artisanal, epicurean, and culturally rich experiences. Located in Northern Virginia just 25 miles outside Washington D.C., Loudoun County is rich in attractions for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, beer and wine aficionados and history buffs alike.
Loudoun shopping opportunities offer something for every taste. Discover unique gifts at locally owned boutiques in historic towns and villages. Secure a special souvenir in a restored carriage house gift shop and find forgotten treasures tucked away in antique emporiums. Or browse world-famous labels at Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets and Dulles Town Center and bring home the brands you know and love.
Prince William
Prince William, Virginia blends rich history with modern experiences, making it a standout destination in Northern Virginia. Known for its historic battlefields, the county also offers vibrant shopping at destinations like Potomac Mills, Virginia’s largest outlet mall, along with favorites like IKEA, Virginia Gateway, Cabela's, and Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center.
When it’s time to turn up the energy, live music takes center stage. The NOVA Live campus showcases an exciting lineup of local talent, while Jiffy Lube Live hosts some of the biggest names in music for unforgettable nights under the stars. For those looking to explore the outdoors, Prince William Forest Park offers the largest expanse of hiking and recreation space in Northern Virginia, perfect for a day of adventure.
Alexandria
Alexandria is an active community that offers visitors a chance to escape to the great outdoors without leaving town. AAA named Alexandria one of the "Ten Most Walkable Cities" in the country, but if a walk isn't enough exercise, hiking and biking trails wind along the waterfront with breathtaking views of the Potomac River, guiding you through nearby George Washington's Mount Vernon and Civil War sites. While you're riverside, enjoy a boat cruise on the Potomac to DC or nearby National Harbor. Prefer a plunge? Alexandria can take you there: Cameron Run Regional Park's waterslides and wave pool bring a family-friendly oasis to Virginia.
Arlington
Arlington offers a rare balance of urban energy and open space, with more than 75 miles of trails and 1,100 acres of parks and green space throughout the county. Ranked the No. 7 park system in the United States, Arlington makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city. Walk or bike along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail, which follows the Potomac River and provides sweeping views of Washington, D.C., or explore a connected network of multiuse paths that link neighborhoods, landmarks, and natural spaces. Outdoor experiences here are accessible, scenic, and effortless.
Fairfax County
Fairfax County makes it easy to get outside and enjoy Mother Nature, with nearly 400 parks, 30,000 acres of green space, and endless ways to explore Northern Virginia’s natural beauty. Visitors can hike, bike, paddle, horseback ride, wander through gardens, or take in the power of the Potomac River as it crashes over the rocks at Great Falls Park. From Mason Neck State Park to Burke Lake Park, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens to the American Horticultural Society’s River Farm, and countless regional and local parks, Fairfax County offers outdoor experiences for every pace and interest.
Loudoun
Loudoun is a perfect place to enjoy Mother Nature’s natural wonders with outdoor adventures that can be enjoyed by land, by air or by water. Hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail or enjoy a bike ride down the Washington & Old Dominion trail. Get a bird’s eye view of the countryside as you tackle the aerial adventure course at Harpers Ferry Adventure Center or zipline through the treetops with Empower Adventures. Water lovers can whitewater raft down the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers or relax with friends while tubing.
Prince William
Prince William, Virginia boasts the largest collection of outdoor hiking, recreation, and outdoor adventure hot spots in all of Northern Virginia. From the many historic trails within Manassas National Battlefield Park to the hike up the Bull Run Mountains Conservancy near I-66, to the many sites within Prince William Forest Park and Leesylvania State Park near I-95, outdoor explorers won’t miss out on taking a deep breath of fresh air.
For water and outdoor activities, choose from fishing or stand-up paddleboarding along the Potomac River. Kayaking here is a local favorite, offering a peaceful way to glide past wooded shorelines, spot wildlife, and more. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more unique, enjoy your first Goat Yoga experience at the Little Goat Farm at the Lake!
Alexandria
Named one of America's Top Art Places, Alexandria is nationally recognized as a community with a "backbone of creative culture." The city's visual arts hub is the world-famous Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former munitions factory transformed into an artistic powerhouse with three floors of artist studios and galleries. The legendary Birchmere music hall hosts some of the biggest names in country, folk and rock in an intimate setting, while MetroStage performs innovative productions of contemporary plays and musicals. From theater to cozy jazz clubs, printmaking classes to comedy nights, Alexandria's art scene buzzes with life.
Arlington
Arlington’s arts and culture scene is confident, creative, and inviting. Dynamic galleries, intimate theaters, and notable public art installations appear throughout parks, plazas, and walkable streets. Visitors can discover original works, attend acclaimed performances, and explore award-winning public art through self-guided walking tours. Art in Arlington extends beyond traditional venues, adding character, energy, and moments of surprise across the community.
Fairfax County
Fairfax County’s arts and culture scene brings together nationally known stages, unexpected venues, and creative spaces you won’t find just anywhere. Experience world-class performances at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, explore the historic prison-turned-creative campus at Workhouse Arts Center, catch concerts and events at Capital One Hall, or discover local galleries, public art, live music, festivals, and cultural programming throughout the county. From major headliners to hands-on arts experiences, Fairfax County offers culture with a distinctly Northern Virginia point of view.
Loudoun
Art lovers will enjoy the boutique studios scattered throughout Loudoun’s towns and villages. The Loudoun County Artisan Trail brings marketing and tourism connections to arts, agriculture, and cultural spots throughout Loudoun County. The Trail includes more than 150 sites spread across the County. Enjoy a show by Stagecoach Theatre Company, a traveling theatre troupe specializing in murder mysteries and dinner theater or visit the National Sporting Library & Museum, sharing the literature, art and culture of equestrian, angling and field sports.
Prince William
Prince William, Virginia features a ‘who’s who’ when it comes to music, arts, & culture. Home to the stunning Hylton Performing Arts Center that features worldly performing acts, the many art clusters full of creative art boutiques and galleries, and rocking live music sites such as NOVA Live and Jiffy Lube Live of which is home to major national and regional music acts in state of the art music venues.
Alexandria
Discover a booming culinary scene praised by Food & Wine, Bon Appetit and The New York Times. Minutes from Washington, DC, Alexandria has served US presidents and Washington DC elite, as well as couples and families seeking a dining experience away from the norm. Old Town Alexandria is known for its 100+ independently owned eateries, where you can find the freshest catch at waterfront seafood restaurants or creative comfort food served in historic buildings. Dine al fresco in dozens of restaurants along historic King Street or the scenic waterfront.
Step off the beaten path and find eclectic or international fare in the Del Ray neighborhood. Don't forget dessert - Alexandria is home to over 20 irresistible sweet spots, from homemade gelato to out-of-this-world donuts. And check out Port City Brewery in the city's West End, where you can have a drink and take a tour of the 2015 Great American Beer Festival's Best Small Brewery in America.
Arlington
Arlington’s food and drink scene reflects its global outlook, with diverse cuisines and neighborhood favorites that rival those of much larger cities. From chef-driven restaurants and lively eateries to cafes, cocktail bars, and local breweries, there are countless places to gather and enjoy the moment. After sunset, the scene continues with live music, comedy, dancing, wine tastings, and relaxed spots perfect for unwinding. With walkable streets and easy Metro access, it is simple to move from dinner to drinks while discovering new flavors along the way.
Fairfax County
Fairfax County’s dining scene is as diverse as the destination itself, with everything from beloved local institutions and chef-driven restaurants to hidden gems that reflect the county’s rich global flavors. Visitors can plan a full foodie weekend around standout meals, craft breweries, two award-winning wineries, and George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill, where limited-edition spirits are still produced using 18th-century recipes and methods. From casual finds to only-in-Fairfax County sips, the area offers plenty of reasons to come hungry and stay awhile.
Loudoun
Ignite your culinary senses in Loudoun, which prides itself on farm-to-table cuisine and unique dining experiences. For a distinctive Loudoun experience, visit one of our many restaurants featuring locally grown produce and Loudoun craft beverages.
Known as DC’s Wine Country®, Loudoun is home to more than 40 wineries and tasting rooms. Intimate and boutique in design, our wineries offer tastings and tours.
The craft beer scene is exploding in Loudoun, with more than 20 breweries offering everything from classic hand-crafted beers to experimental small batches.
Prince William
From fresh seafood to smoky BBQ and craft drinks worth taking a picture of, Prince William, Virginia continues to serve up the kind of flavors that keep visitors coming back for more. The local dining scene highlights waterfront favorites and laid-back spots where you can dig into everything from locally inspired seafood dishes to classic comfort fare. And when it comes to drinks, the county truly shines. Home to a growing collection of breweries, wineries, and distilleries, the popular Steins, Vines & Moonshine Trail, allows you to sip your way through local pours, meet the makers, and turn a casual outing into a full experience.
Alexandria
Founded in 1749, Alexandria has more than 140 locations with ties to the nation's first president, George Washington, along with a host of intimate museums highlighting the beginnings of America. Several sites work to weave the rich tapestry of the city's history from the 18th-century to the present, like Gadsby’s Tavern which hosted each of the first five American Presidents, and the Alexandria Black History Museum, which details the city's strong African-American leaders from the Civil War to civil rights and beyond. And just nine miles south of Old Town Alexandria you can continue exploring America's first president's story at George Washington's Mount Vernon in Fairfax County.
Alexandria also nods to its vast creative history at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former World War II munitions factory turned 82 artist studios and six galleries, and the National Inventors Hall of Fame at the US Patent and Trademark Office, whose interactive exhibits celebrate modern innovation. Explore Alexandria with the "Key to the City" museum pass, which grants visitors access into nine historic sites.
Arlington
A trip to the nation’s capital offers insight into America’s past, present, and future, and Arlington plays an important role in that story. Once part of the original federal district established in 1790, Arlington still features historic boundary stones that reflect Pierre L’Enfant’s vision for the planned capital. That connection continues today through landmarks, neighborhoods, and a strong sense of place.
One of the most significant sites is Arlington National Cemetery, a place of remembrance set on rolling hills overlooking Washington, D.C. Visitors can observe ceremonial traditions, visit memorials honoring service and sacrifice, and experience the quiet beauty of one of the nation’s most meaningful historic landscapes.
Fairfax County
Fairfax County offers a powerful connection to America’s story, with historic sites and museums that bring the nation’s past to life. Visitors can walk the grounds of two Founding Fathers’ estates: George Washington’s Mount Vernon and George Mason’s Gunston Hall. Then, go on to explore Civil War history at area battlefields and museums or experience moments of innovation and military legacy at places like the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center and the National Museum of the United States Army. From revolution to aviation to service, Fairfax County isn’t just a place to learn history; it’s a place to stand right where it happened.
Loudoun
Come to Loudoun and experience the same historic vistas as President John F. Kennedy, First Lady Jackie Kennedy and George C. Marshall, who created The Marshall Plan. Explore Civil War battlefields, breeding grounds of Kentucky Derby winners and old fashioned country stores. Discover centuries old charming towns, including the circa 1758 Leesburg and Middleburg, the capital of Virginia horse country.
Prince William
When it comes to history in Northern Virginia, no one destination has more history to showcase than Prince William, Virginia. Prince William was the site of the Battles of Bull Run/Manassas, two of the most known battles of the American Civil War. Not to mention the stunning sights and history of the National Museum of the Marine Corps. You can even explore where today’s CIA got its start within Prince William Forest Park.
Along the African American Heritage Trail, you’ll uncover powerful and often untold stories of resilience, community, and culture. Stops along the trail highlight and explore everything from formerly enslaved individuals building new lives after the Civil War to thriving Black communities, churches, and schools that helped shape the region.
How to get here
Northern Virginia is located adjacent to Washington, D.C. – the Capital of the United States. The two main airports serving Washington, D.C. are located here in Northern Virginia – they are Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA). We’re also located immediately off of Interstate 95 (the main American transportation corridor that stretches from Maine to Florida). For those who prefer to travel by rail, we’re also accessible via Amtrak® or the Washington Metrorail system. We’re closer than you think:- Baltimore to Northern Virginia: 60 Miles (96.5 Kilometers)
- Philadelphia to Northern Virginia: 160 Miles (257.5 Kilometers)
- Virginia Beach to Northern Virginia: 215 miles (346 Kilometers)
- New York City to Northern Virginia: 250 Miles (402 Kilometers)
- Boston to Northern Virginia: 460 Miles (740 Kilometers)
- Toronto to Northern Virginia: 475 Miles (764 Kilometers)
- Montréal vers le nord Virginie: 600 Miles (965.6 Kilometers)
- Québec vers le nord Virginie: 750 Miles (1207 Kilometers)