Fairfax, VA Attractions

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? There are a lot of great Fairfax, VA attractions that are perfect for both family outings and a simple day wandering around by yourself. Some of these activities do have an entrance fee, while others are free and can be enjoyed anytime you want. Here are a few of the most popular Fairfax, VA tourism spots.

Mount Vernon

Historic Mount Vernon was the home of George and Martha Washington after Martha’s first Marriage. Many people don’t know that Martha could have used a divorce lawyer in Fairfax, VA like the attorneys at KalesLaw.com because George was not her first husband.  Today, the plantation is listed as a national historic landmark and is open every day for tours. The property continues to be owned and operated by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, a group that took over the plantation in 1858. Mount Vernon was originally built over a period of 20 years: construction began in 1758, but the final buildings were not finished until 1778.

Visitors to Mount Vernon can see the gardens, the main house, the distillery, and much more. Tickets are $17 for general admission, and the plantation is open between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm daily.
The Mount Vernon Website

Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole

If you’re looking for some fun, you can’t go wrong with the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole. This amusement park is full of water slides, pools, the lazy river, and much more. It has over an acre of different things for people of all ages. The park is themed after the old west, so you’ll find covered wagons, rattlesnake floats, and ore carts among the pools. Pete’s Peak is at the center of the Swimmin’ Hole, and here you can go down one of the two large slides that send you spiraling from the top all the way down to the pool at the bottom.

The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole is open weekends through the spring and summer. Admission starts at $11.25. Season passes and group rates are available.
Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole Website

NextStop Theatre Company

The NextStop Theatre Company, located in nearby Herndon, is known for its outstanding plays, relaxed environment, and more. The company is based out of the Black Box Theatre, a converted warehouse that has been made into a unique arts space. NextStop puts on a number of plays throughout the year, and they do hold auditions for those who are looking to get their big break. In addition to the performances, NextStop actors also teach classes for young actors and for adults.

Ticket prices vary by performance and day/time. Season passes and other ticket packages are available.
The NextStop Theatre Company Website

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

Finally, anyone who loves flying and airplanes will want to visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly. A companion museum to the Museum on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the Center facility includes two large hangers full of space and aviation exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can see a Concorde, a SR-71 Blackbird, and even the space shuttle Discovery. Educational programs, a gift shop, and special events will round out your day.

The Center is open year-round except for Christmas Day. Admission is free.
The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center Website

Other Fairfax, VA Entertainment and Attractions
Here are a few other attractions you may want to check out while you’re in Fairfax.

Wolf Trap Theatre
Great Falls National Park
Reston Town Center
Burke Lake Park
Frying Pan Farm
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
The Winery at Bull Run