The Smithsonian’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Explore the beauty of flight
The Udvar-Hazy Center is the sister property of the Air and Space Museum located on the National Mall. The two sites together showcase the largest collection of aviation and space artifacts in the world. The Space Shuttle Enterprise, SR-71 Blackbird, and Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay are just a few examples of what aviation gems await the curious public. Visitors can also enjoy flight simulators, guest speakers, special events, guided tours, and IMAX movies when visiting this Fairfax County favorite.
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Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Meet the “real” George Washington
Fairfax County is home to America's first and most celebrated President. George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens offers visitors of all ages insight into the life and times of this revolutionary hero. In addition to the historic mansion you’re invited to immerse yourself in our nation's past through interactive galleries and exhibits that showcase milestones in our young democracy’s existence. Also pay your respects at the tomb of George and Martha Washington located on the grounds.
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Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
Where the arts come out to play
Wolf Trap is the only National Park dedicated solely to the performing arts in the United States. Every year world-class performers, covering all types of genres, play to adoring crowds amongst the rolling hills of Northern Virginia. In the summer months the Filene Center makes for a perfect concert experience where you have a picnic on the lawn while listening to your favorite live tunes. In the cooler months the Barns at Wolf Trap, an 18th century inspired acoustic haven, provides for a more intimate concert experience.
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The Workhouse Arts Center
Connect with creativity
Set on 55 acres of land in the historic D.C. Workhouse and Reformatory, the Workhouse provides a home for more than 150 of the regions finest professional and emerging artists as well as cooperative studios, performance and theatre venues, dedicated gallery space, and event facilities. Visitors are encouraged to interact with artists, participate in classes, purchase the wares that the various artists produce on site, and attend a musical or theatrical performance.
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Washington, D.C.
The nation's capital is just a short trip away
Just a small distance from Fairfax County across the Potomac River resides the sites and sounds of our Nation's Capital. Visitors can admire the palatial monuments and memorials on the National Mall, tour the White House, mingle with Senators and Representatives at the U.S. Capitol, as well as browse about any number of national treasures by visiting a number of the Smithsonian Institution's famous museums.
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George Mason’s Gunston Hall
Home to a fascinating Founding Father
George Mason, author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, made his home in Fairfax County close to his friend George Washington. Gunston Hall operated as a 5,500 acre tobacco plantation during the Revolutionary Era and now remains as a reminder of America’s past. Visitors to Gunston Hall can appreciate the spender of Georgian style architecture, as well as learn about the daily life of one of the nation's most influential founding fathers.
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Great Falls National Park
Witness nature’s awesome power
Fairfax County is home to over 30,000 acres of parkland including Great Falls National Park. Visitors arrive year round to witness the breathtaking views and awesome power of the Potomac River flowing over the falls. Hike along the riverside trails or admire the sights from select vantage points near the visitor center. You can also arrange kayak expeditions or rock climbing adventures by coordinating with the park’s rangers.
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The National Firearms Museum
The history of America on display
The National Firearms Museum is home to permanent galleries and displays of weapons from all eras of American history. Throughout the museum you will find some of the most famous weapons from cinema fame such as Star Wars blasters, Eddie Murphy’s pistol from Beverly Hills Cop, firearms used by John Wayne spanning his illustrious movie making career, and guns from the movies Pulp Fiction, The Untouchables and more.
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