Winter Vacation to Washington D.C. Area

Plan to stay a while, there are plenty of things to do during a winter getaway to the DC area! Fairfax County’s holiday helpers are busy putting together all the elements of the best season ever!

Winter Day Trips From DC

A winter getaway to the Washington, D.C. area offers activities for everyone, whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, festive holiday fun, or cozy indoor experiences. Northern Virginia and the surrounding areas are filled with exciting things to do that will make your winter escape unforgettable. Here are some activities to include on your winter getaway.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a great winter activity, and Northern Virginia offers some fantastic rinks. Head to the Reston Town Center Ice Rink, where you can skate in the heart of this lively shopping hub.

Another popular spot just a short drive away is the Rockville Town Square Ice Rink in Maryland, which offers an unforgettable skating experience surrounded by holiday lights and festive decorations. Both rinks provide skate rentals and are perfect for skaters of all ages and abilities.

Winter Activities in Fairfax

Fairfax County and Northern Virginia are packed with things to do in winter. Experience the magic of the holidays with a live Christmas performance at George Mason University's Center for the Arts or Capital One Hall.

For a more historical holiday celebration, visit Mount Vernon during the holiday season for a special experience. You can enjoy fireworks shows set to holiday music and the winter glow of George Washington’s historic estate.

Outdoor Winter Activities

Northern Virginia's landscape offers plenty of outdoor winter activities for both kids and adults. For the little ones, sledding is a classic winter activity, and many parks in the area offer the perfect hills for a day of snowy adventure.

If you prefer a quieter experience, adults can enjoy watching wildlife in the region’s beautiful parks or renting a cozy cabin for a peaceful winter retreat surrounded by nature.

Indoor Winter Activities

When the cold gets too much, take advantage of Fairfax County’s many indoor winter activities. Spend a day exploring one (or more) of the world famous museums in the Washington, D.C. area, or dive into some fast-paced fun.

Dave & Buster's at Springfield Town Center or Fun Land of Fairfax offer arcades, laser tag, and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.

For a more brain-teasing adventure, check out escape rooms like Cyber Raccoon Escape Room or Escape Room Herndon for an exhilarating challenge with friends and family.

DC Holiday Traditions

No winter trip to Washington, D.C. is complete without experiencing some of the city’s beloved holiday traditions. Start by visiting the iconic National Christmas Tree near the White House, a festive display that includes smaller trees representing all 50 states.

Stroll through the Downtown Holiday Market, where you can shop for unique gifts and enjoy seasonal treats. And while you're in the area, take a stroll over to the White House, where you can see the stunning holiday decorations that make it a special seasonal spot.

Holiday Light Shows

Holiday light shows are a highlight of any winter getaway to the D.C. area. In Fairfax, you can’t miss the beautiful display at Bull Run Festival of Lights.

Also, check out Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights in Vienna, where you can stroll through lit-up gardens. And if you're looking for something unique, the DMV Winter Lantern Festival offers amazing lantern displays that light up the area.

Make sure to check out the best places to see holiday lights in Fairfax to find more unique spots to visit this holiday season!

Holiday Shopping

No winter vacation is complete without a bit of holiday shopping, and Fairfax County offers plenty of options for finding unique gifts, festive treats, and holiday cheer. Whether you're seeking luxury items, handmade crafts, or quirky souvenirs, there’s something for everyone.