Sunsets are kind of my thing. I go out for sunset nearly every night at my home. I can see west from an elevated spot on my front stoop. But I can also go in the backyard and watch the colors the sunset brings to the eastern and southern skies. Whether you're visiting for a couple’s weekend or a…
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It's summer, and it’s hot out. And the kids (even the teens) are bouncing off the walls. Where can you take them that will cool them down AND let them burn off that dizzying energy? Fairfax County is home to five full-size waterparks, but did you know there are countless other spray grounds and…
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Magnificent waterfalls, wildflower-speckled meadows, bustling wildlife habitats, and breathtaking scenery. One of Fairfax County's greatest assets is the over 900 miles of hiking trails that showcase the undeniable natural beauty of our region. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on a full…
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Updated for 2025 What is blooming in Northern Virginia right now? Virginia Bluebells! Each spring in Fairfax County, something magical happens: our woodland floors transform into carpets of wildflowers that beg to be seen! And, nearby, you’ll often find spots where significant moments in military…
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When people think of birding in the United States, they often picture destinations like the Florida Everglades, the Pacific Northwest, or the Gulf Coast. But some of the country’s best birding can be found right here in Fairfax County. Nestled in the Potomac Banks area, less than five miles from the…
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The American Bald Eagle is an iconic bird that can easily stop you in your tracks when witnessing one soaring above. It’s no wonder these majestic creatures can elicit such a reaction – they can stand approximately three feet tall and have wing spans that reach up to eight feet wide. One might not…
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Fairfax County's gardens are a delight all year round. Spring in particular is a stunning display of flora and fauna. It's during this time that multitudes of visitors' flock to the Washington, DC and Northern Virginia region to see the spectacle that is the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which…
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Historically, Native American tribes chose to live near water sources like lakes, rivers, and coastlines. Water was a crucial element of survival, providing access to transportation, food sources like fish, and fertile land for farming. For many tribes, water was considered sacred and an essential…
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Fairfax County was founded in 1742 and has a long and fascinating history. But many of the histories that shape the County today happened thousands of years prior. Did you know that the county has an Archaeology and Collections Branch that helps to identify, preserve, and interpret the material…
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In the bustling metropolitan area near our nation's capital, spotting more than a few stars in the night sky can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Luckily, Fairfax County has a variety of spots tucked away from light pollution to see the world above. Whether you're an astronomy…
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