Fairfax Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the heart of the Virginia region, Fairfax is a vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of historical charm and modern attractions. With its close proximity to Washington, D.C., Fairfax is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the United States.

One of the main attractions in Fairfax is the Fairfax County Courthouse, a stunning architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the courthouse and learn about its historical significance in the region. Nearby, the Old Town Fairfax is a quaint and charming area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

For history enthusiasts, the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center is a must-visit. The museum showcases the city's fascinating history, from its early settlement to its role in the American Civil War. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that provide a comprehensive overview of Fairfax's past.

Nature lovers will be delighted to explore the beauty of the region's parks and gardens. The Green Spring Gardens Park is a tranquil oasis that features stunning floral displays, serene walking trails, and a picturesque pond. Visitors can also enjoy educational programs and workshops on horticulture and gardening.

Food lovers will find plenty of options in Fairfax, as the city boasts a diverse culinary scene. From upscale restaurants offering international cuisine to cozy cafes serving local delicacies, there is something to satisfy every palate. The Fairfax Farmers Market is also a great place to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods from local vendors.

As the day comes to an end, visitors can enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene in Fairfax. The city is home to a variety of bars, pubs, and live music venues, offering a lively atmosphere for those seeking entertainment and relaxation.

Alternative names: Founded: 1869 (156 years ago)Population: 24 thous.Area: 6.27 mi²Elevation: 361 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 38°51'26"N, 77°18'32"W

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VirginiaUnited States

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Fairfax Top Attractions

Fairfax Attractions - What to See and Explore

Fairfax offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: EagleBank Arena, National Firearms Museum, Old Town Hall, Historic Blenheim. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Arenas and stadiums • Auditorium • Sport venue
EagleBank Arena
EagleBank Arena is a 10,000-seat arena in the eastern United States, on the campus of George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, a suburb southwest of Washington, D.C.
History museum • Museum • Specialty museum
National Firearms Museum
The NRA National Firearms Museum is a museum located at the NRA Headquarters Building in Fairfax County, Virginia. Approximated 2,500 guns are displayed in 15,000 square feet.
Civic center • Event space • City hall
Old Town Hall
Old Town Hall is a classical revival style hall that was built in 1900 by Joseph E. Willard and subsequently donated by him to Fairfax, Virginia.

Historical place • Museum • History museum
Historic Blenheim
Historic Blenheim is a c. 1859 brick farm house designed in the Greek Revival style and located in City of Fairfax, Virginia. During the American Civil War, Union soldiers were often encamped on the grounds surrounding the house and utilized it as part of a reserve hospital system.
Church • Fairfax
Truro Church
Truro Anglican Church is an Anglican church in Fairfax, Virginia, USA.
Cemetery • Long Branch
Fairfax Memorial Park
Fairfax Memorial Park is a family owned and operated cemetery located in Fairfax, Virginia, United States. The cemetery was founded in 1957 by Cornelius H. Doherty, Sr. The cemetery was opened in 1969 to provide space for Catholics in the area who required a Catholic burial, but it is now a secular cemetery.
Museum • History museum
Ratcliffe-Logan-Allison House
The Ratcliffe–Logan–Allison House is a historic home located at Fairfax, Virginia. It is commonly and historically known as Earp's Ordinary, as the structure is an expansion of the original Earp's Ordinary, a late 18th Century building used as a tavern and store by Caleb Earp.
Historical place • Georgian architecture
Ford Building
The Ford House is a Georgian Revival former home built c. 1835. The most famous resident, Antonia Ford, was a spy for the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War.
38°50'39"N • 77°18'27"W
Barbour House
The Barbour House is an early 20th-century mansion in Fairfax, Virginia. It takes its name from its prominent owner, John Strode Barbour. Barbour House is located at 4069 Chain Bridge Road.
38°50'48"N • 77°18'26"W
William Gunnell House
Built in 1835, the William Gunnell House is a contributing property of the City of Fairfax Historic District. The building, at 10520 Main Street, was the location of Confederate John S. Mosby's raid on Union forces on March 9, 1863.
38°50'45"N • 77°18'27"W
Old Fairfax County Jail
The Old Fairfax County Jail was built in 1885, behind the Fairfax County Court House. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981, expanding the previously listed Fairfax County Court House.
38°50'49"N • 77°18'32"W
Marsh House
The Marsh House is a colonial revival vernacular built in 1930. It is part of the City of Fairfax Historic District and currently is used as a commercial building.
38°50'40"N • 77°18'4"W
Fairfax Public School
Fairfax Public School, also known as the Old Fairfax Elementary School Annex, is a historic school building located at Fairfax, Virginia. It consists of two sections built in 1873 and 1912, and is a two-story, brick building.
38°51'7"N • 77°18'0"W
City of Fairfax Police Department
Police • City hall
Neighbourhood • Romanesque architecture
Historic Fairfax County Courthouse
The Historic Fairfax County Courthouse is one of the oldest buildings in Fairfax, Virginia. It was constructed in 1799 to serve as the seat of government in Fairfax County.
Neighbourhood • Fairfax
City of Fairfax Historic District
The City of Fairfax Historic District is a national historic district located at Fairfax, Virginia. It encompasses 28 contributing buildings in the central business district of Fairfax.

Things to See and Do in Fairfax by Category

Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Fairfax.

Active

EagleBank Arena
Fairfax
Arenas and stadiumsAuditoriumSport venueGeorge Mason
Penderbrook Golf Clubhouse
Fairfax
Outdoor activitiesGolfFair Oaks
Spuhler Field
Fairfax
Sport venueSportGeorge Mason

Day trips

Fairfax – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Fairfax, it's worth seeing attractions such as: White House (Washington D.C.), National Gallery of Art (Washington D.C.), Washington Monument (Washington D.C.).

15 milesE
Iconic home of America's president
White House, Washington D.C.
The White House, the iconic residence and workplace of the President of the United States, is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington D.C. Not only does it serve as the official seat of presidential power, but it also stands as a living museum of American...
16 milesE
American and European art in 2 buildings
National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
The National Gallery of Art, a monumental presence in the heart of Washington D.C., stands as a testament to the importance of art in national culture. This prestigious institution, nestled on the National Mall, is a beacon for art enthusiasts and historians alike.
15 milesE
Towering tribute to George Washington
Washington Monument, Washington D.C.
Rising to an impressive 554 feet and 7 11/32 inches, the Washington Monument is an iconic obelisk that dominates the skyline of Washington D.C., the capital of the United States. This towering memorial was built to honor George Washington, the nation's first President...
16 milesE
Exhibit-filled trip across the universe
National Air and Space Museum, Washington D.C.
The National Air and Space Museum, an iconic institution in Washington D.C., United States, serves as a testament to the human quest for flight and the exploration of the cosmos. As part of the Smithsonian Institution, the museum houses the world's largest collection...
15 milesE
Memorial
National World War II Memorial, Washington D.C.
The National World War II Memorial is a solemn tribute to the American soldiers who served in the Second World War, as well as the millions who supported the war effort from home. Situated in the heart of Washington D.C., between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington...

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Best Time To Visit Fairfax

Learn when is the best time to travel to Fairfax weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in April, May and July.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and February. Most of it rains in May, June, July, August and September.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Fairfax?

The top attractions to visit in Fairfax are:

What is the best time to visit Fairfax?

June is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in April, May and July. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.