Northern Virginia is a vibrant and diverse region, home to a variety of attractions and activities that are sure to please visitors and residents alike. From scenic parks and trails to historic sites, vineyards, and more, there's something for everyone in this beautiful part of the country. One of the most impressive national parks in Northern Virginia is Great Falls Park, managed as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Here, the Potomac River falls and narrows, cascading down on a jumble of rocks to create beautiful waterfalls and streams that change dramatically throughout the year.
The National Park Service maintains three easily accessible overlooks in Great Falls Park, as well as a section of the Potomac Heritage Trail that embraces the riverside cliffs and offers hiking trails with stunning views. Great Falls is a fantastic place to visit with children, with easy trails and pleasant picnics, perfect for outdoor adventures with the whole family. George Washington's Mount Vernon was the residence of George and Martha Washington before and after he was the first president of the United States. Here, Washington developed his experience as a gentleman farmer and entertained important guests at his estate on the banks of the Potomac River.
A visit to Mount Vernon is one of the best things to do near Northern Virginia, no matter what time of year you're thinking of visiting. Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most heartbreaking and beautiful places in Northern Virginia. More than 320,000 men and women who served the United States honorably are buried here. It's one of the most popular cultural attractions in Northern Virginia for visitors and residents alike.
The George Washington Memorial Parkway links several important National Park sites in Northern Virginia. The highway follows the Virginia side of the Potomac River from Turkey Run Park south to Mount Vernon. Beyond the main road, the National Park site also includes Great Falls Park and the Clara Barton Parkway Highway in Maryland. One of the most beautiful national park areas near Washington DC is Prince William Forest Park.
This hidden gem combines outdoor fun with a fascinating history, offering 37 miles of hiking trails, a scenic drive, and paved and off-road bike trails. On a bluff overlooking the Potomac, Greenhill Vineyards is one of Virginia's most attractive vineyards. It's one of the best things to do in Northern Virginia for adults who want to enjoy some wine tasting or take in some beautiful architecture. Old Town Alexandria is another must-see destination for visitors to Northern Virginia.
This historic district offers guided walking tours, picturesque hiking trails, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. The Mount Vernon Trail is an 18-mile paved, multipurpose recreational trail that follows the west bank of the North Virginia side of the Potomac River from Theodore Roosevelt Island through Old Alexandria to George Washington's Mount Vernon estate and gardens. It's one of the best times to visit Northern Virginia because of its mild weather and stunning cherry blossoms.
