From historical sites to indoor and outdoor activities, there are endless fun things to do in Fairfax, Virginia. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, check out this list of incredibly fun things to do in Fairfax any time of the year. We cover historical sites and parks for the history buffs, plus plenty to do in Fairfax County in general.
Fairfax is one of the Northern Virginia communities we serve, so this list comes from spending real weekends in these places.
Historical Things To Do In Fairfax
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121
Northern Virginia has a lot to offer when it comes to American history. People travel from around the country to visit the estate of George Washington because it delivers a genuinely memorable learning experience. You can tour the mansion, learn about Washington’s life at home, and take in the grounds and gardens. The estate is open 365 days a year.
One thing to know before you book: a major mansion revitalization has been underway since 2023. Both floors have reopened, but the cellar stays off-view through fall 2026.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182
Wolf Trap is a one-of-a-kind experience you can’t find anywhere else in the country. It’s the only national park dedicated to the performing arts. You can do what you would at any national park, hiking and picnicking included, and you can also catch a show at the Filene Center or the Theatre-in-the-Woods.
A full list of upcoming shows and special events is on the Wolf Trap Foundation calendar.
Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center
10209 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22030
This local museum packs a lot of history into a small space, and admission is free. Exhibits cover Fairfax County history from the colonial period forward, and it doubles as a Virginia certified visitor center if you want ideas for the rest of your day.
It’s open Wednesday through Monday, 11am to 4pm, and closed Tuesdays. Budget an hour or two. This is also the only stop on this list that sits inside the City of Fairfax proper.
Fun For Anyone
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly, VA 20151
If you only do one thing on this list, make it this one. The Smithsonian’s companion facility to the Air and Space Museum houses Space Shuttle Discovery, an SR-71 Blackbird, a Concorde, and the Enola Gay, all in two hangars you can walk for hours.
Admission is free and it’s open daily from 10am to 5:30pm. Parking runs $15, which is the only cost of the visit.
Bond’s Entertainment Center
3949A University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
Formerly Bond’s Escape Room, this venue rebranded in March 2026 and is still the largest escape room operation on the East Coast. The Fairfax location has nine handcrafted rooms spanning horror, sci-fi, and adventure themes, plus two VR arenas and a live stage game show.
All games are private, so your group won’t be paired with strangers. It’s a solid pick for friends, families, or a birthday.
The Winery at Bull Run
15950 Lee Highway, Centreville, VA 20120
Wine tasting, picnic and lawn seating, live music, and good scenery. The Winery at Bull Run is a relaxing afternoon for visitors and locals alike, and walk-ins are welcome.
The property adjoins more than 5,000 acres of Manassas National Battlefield Park, so the preserved 19th-century farmland right next door is part of the appeal. The battlefield is a separate National Park Service site with its own trails and visitor center.
Great Falls Park
9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA 22102
The Potomac drops through Mather Gorge here, and the overlooks are the best river views in the region. There’s hiking for every level, plus the remains of the historic Patowmack Canal and a visitor center.
Entry is $20 per vehicle, and as of January 1, 2026 the park is fully cashless. Bring a card or your phone, because cash is no longer accepted at the gate.
Burke Lake Park
7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
An 888-acre park with a 4.7-mile trail circling the lake, plus fishing, a marina for boating, disc golf, and a campground. It’s one of the most popular county parks for a reason.
There’s also a carousel, a miniature train, mini golf, and an ice cream parlor. Ride availability varies, so check the county page or call the park before promising the kids.
Mosaic District
2905 District Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22031
A walkable mixed-use district with restaurants, shopping, a cinema, and a regular calendar of outdoor events and markets on the green. If you want one spot where a group with different interests can all find something, this is it.
More To Explore Nearby
Heading a little further north? We also put together a guide to things to do and places to see in Falls Church, along with our favorite parks in Falls Church.
Remodeling In Fairfax? Let’s Talk
Here at WISA Design Build Remodel, we love the things there are to do around Fairfax. We care just as much about the homes our neighbors come back to afterward.
Since 2011 our in-house design and build team has worked with homeowners across Fairfax, from opening up a dated floor plan to a full whole-home remodel. If you have a project in mind, give us a call and we’ll walk you through what it takes.
