Just because your kids are college students or young 20-somethings, doesn't mean family vacations have to come to a screeching halt! In fact, families can enjoy a whole new world of adventurous activities, including the exploration of interesting history, cool shopping, fine dining, and even winery tours.
Visit a Historical Site
Step back in time at our historical colonial sites, Civil War battle sites, homes of original founding fathers and more. Essential parts of U.S. History such as the American Revolution, Civil War and Underground Railroad run deep throughout the foundation of Fairfax County. History was formed here and continues to be made each and everyday in the Washington DC Metropolitan region. Click here to dive deeper into America's history through our iconic landmarks.
Indulge in Retail Therapy
3 Words: World. Class. Shopping. From local shops to nationally-recognized chains, Fairfax County has the best shopping destinations to find exactly what you’re looking for (and more). Tysons Corner Center, one of the top 10 shopping centers in the USA, is home to over 300 specialty and department stores. Tysons' "who's who" of retail includes Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Apple, Uniqlo, and more. If you're looking for a shopping district full of photo-opps, check out Mosaic - a center with hand-selected retailers and restaurants, the Angelika Film Center, intelligent urban design, murals, and a vibrant plaza with streeteries and games. To experience the vitality of a European-inspired streets, check out Reston Town Center for a diverse mix of restaurants and shopping, and an extensive collection of outdoor public art installations. For all Fairfax County shopping districts, check out our dedicated shopping page.
Enjoy DIY Activities
Some of the best souvenirs are the ones you make with your own two hands. Visit Clay Cafe in Chantilly or Kiln & Co. in the Town of Vienna to paint your own pottery piece - they will glaze and fire it for you to take home! Or, choose your favorite "vessel" and fragrance as an enthusiastic instructor leads you through the candle-pouring process at Paddywax Candle Studio in Reston Town Center. Plus - they allow you to bring in bottles of your own wine to sip while you enjoy the session. Or, unleash your inner Picasso as you paint with the guidance of a tutorial from a professional artist at Muse Paintbar in Mosaic. Whatever you choose, the whole family will have made something special to keep!
Award-Winning Dining
Now that your kids are growing up, gone are the days of picking restaurants based on the availability of kids menus and high chairs! Fairfax County features a diverse selection of restaurants - from saucy Korean BBQ to classic Italian fare. No matter what your family is craving, you'll find something that'll win your hearts and your stomachs! Click here to view our extensive list of restaurants that’ll have your entire party saying “mmmm!”
Outdoor Adventures
With thousands of acres of parkland, fun trails, and outdoor activities, adventure-loving families will find a connection to the outdoors here in Fairfax County. Hike or bike through our thousands of acres of parkland scenic trails, soar high above the trees on the Go Ape ziplines and ropes course, cruise over the scenic Potomac River on a kayak or canoe, and get your fix of an unforgettable journey through nature.
Plan Your Escape
Escape the Joker's Trap! OR save the White House! OR time travel to find the cure to a disease! OR catch the ghost of a little girl! Put your problem-solving skills to work at one of the many adventures inside of Room Escape Fairfax, the largest escape room venue on the East Coast. See if you can work together to solve the mystery within the time frame you're given. Bonus points for escaping with time to spare!
Hot tip: Can't make it to Fairfax City? Don't miss these other nearby escape rooms in Herndon and Falls Church!
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