DO WEST OF DC

Due west of our Nation's Capital, just across the Potomac River, lies Northern Virginia and Fairfax County where the Capital Region unfolds in the most unexpected and exciting ways! Enjoy everything that the Capital Region has to offer from this unique vantage point. From the foundations of our American Colonial and Civil War history to the monumental beauty of Washington, DC. Fairfax County puts you in the center of all these experiences.

Connect with George Washington at historic Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens-America's most visited home. Learn about the "Father of Our Country" through tours of his estate, Distillery and Gristmill, Blacksmith Shop and the 25 interactive exhibits and multi-sensory experiences of the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education center. 

Immerse yourself into the history of flight at a museum like no other! The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is a gleaming 10-story high aviation hangar with 23 galleries, 120 aircraft, and 135 spacecraft showcasing some of the most impressive one of a kind historic aircraft and spacecraft in existence.

Beyond the awe inspiring vistas of the Great Falls of the Potomac River is the story of the first canal in the United States that used locks to allow barges to bypass the falls and distribute goods north. Explore the remnants of the Patowmack Canal opened in 1785 and partially funded by George Washington. Great Falls National Park also gives present day visitors the opportunity to schedule a rock climbing or kayak adventure with park approved guides.

From Symphony to rock, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts allows you to picnic under the stars at the majestic Filene Center in the summer, or enjoy a more intimate musical setting at the Barns at Wolf Trap in the winter. 


Day 1 - Great Falls National Park, Wolf Trap
Day 2 - George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens 
Day 3 - The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy