Beautiful landscapes, a rich history, and culturally rich towns make Northern Virginia one of the South's premiere destinations. Blending “Southern charm” with big city appeal, the region offers something for for every traveler.
Walk through George Washington's family home at Mount Vernon Estate. Located in Mount Vernon along the banks of the Potomac River, the mansion and grounds provide a picturesque portrait of life as it was in the Colonial era.
Experience the history of aircraft at Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, an addition to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Experience 3D films at the IMAX movie theater and walk amidst hundreds of aircraft memorabilia at this kid-friendly destination.
Arlington is the region's largest city. Located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., it provides easy access to the nation's capitol while maintaining its own distinct identity. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Arlington Cemetery, the resting place of over 400,000 soldiers. While there, visit both the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and the Air Force Memorial, two destinations that pay homage to the armed forces. Schedule a guided tour of the Pentagon to get a rare look at the headquarters of the Department of Defense.
Just 7 miles (11.3 kilometers) east of Washington, D.C, Alexandria offers small-town charm that makes the nation's capital feel worlds away. Spend the day shopping and dining in Old Town, Alexandria's historic district. The King Street Trolley provides a free and convenient way to explore the neighborhood. Whether exploring Civil War history at Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site or exploring the local artists' works at Torpedo Factory Art Center, Alexandria offers both historical and modern delights.
Dulles International Airport, located in Sterling, offers flights worldwide. The region is most easily explored by car, although the greater D.C. Area has a comprehensive Metro system. Both Alexandria and Arlington are connected by the Mount Vernon Trail, a bike lane that runs along the Potomac. The most popular time to visit the region is during autumn, when the fall foliage is at its prime.
