Get Ready to Explore Fairfax County, va 

Beautiful Fairfax County offers fascinating history, beautiful outdoor preserves, and exciting things to do. These Fairfax County hidden gems include family fun, intriguing history, and the adventure of space.

1. Gunston Hall- Mason Neck, VA

The 18th-century Georgian mansion, Guston Hall, is located in Mason Neck, Virginia nearby the Potomac River. The colossal home was built between 1755 and 1759 and was home to politician and founding father George Mason. Mason is best known for authoring The Virginia Resolves and the Virginia Declaration of Independence, in addition to being one of three delegates who refused to sign the constitution. 

IMG_8011Source: gunstonhall.org

The 5,500-acre plantation is located near George Washington's home, Mount Vernon. Primarily the work of William Buckland, the house's interior is decorated using rococo and Gothic styles. Guston Hall was the only home at that time to incorporate these styles. 

Explore the rich history of colonial America. Tour the historic home and visit the kitchen yard, schoolhouse, slave dwelling, and burying grounds. From March through mid-November, meet the archaeological team and learn what they have discovered about life at this plantation. Bring a picnic and eat your lunch on the grounds while your imagination takes you back to colonial America.

2. Potomac Heritage Trail - Great Falls, VA

Follow the paths explored by President George Washington. Hike, bike, or stroll through an afternoon on the Potomac Heritage Trail. 

IMG_8012 (1)Source: innercompassblog.com

The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail includes over 800 miles of trails; Over seven miles of trails are in Great Falls Park and Scott's Run Nature Preserve. These trails offer visitors a shaded trek with varied terrain and views of the Potomac River. Sections of a stone wall from the days of Washington still stand and witness the portion of the Patowmack Canal that Washington spearheaded.

3. Historic Clifton, VA

With a population of fewer than 300 people, the delightful town of Clifton, Virginia, is a great weekend getaway or a fun day trip. Less than an hour from Washington DC, Clifton has a historic downtown that allows visitors to transport themselves to the 18th century with the Clifton General Store and Main Street Pub along with other restored historic buildings.

IMG_8013Source: funinfairfaxva.com

Nicknamed the "Brigadoon of Virginia," Clifton is home to Devereaux Station. Visitors can step back in time as they check out the train's original caboose.  

Clifton is a registered National Historic District full of wonder. Historic signs posted in front of buildings and houses on Main Street tell a rich history and offer fun facts. The historic district is also home to three churches. The elaborate Clifton Baptist Church, constructed in 1910, was previously the grounds where members of Mosby's Rangers - a terrifying Confederate group - would regularly meet. History buffs can easily spend an entire weekend here just visiting the notable buildings and homes. 

4. Sully Historic Site - Chantilly, VA

More commonly known as Sully Plantation, the Sully Historic Site in Chantilly was the home of Richard Bland Lee, Virginia's first congressman. Built between 1794 and 1801, the main house and surrounding buildings are all original to the site. The Federal-style home is furnished and includes a smokehouse, kitchen, and slave quarters. 

IMG_8016Source: fairfaxcounty.gov

Living history events and educational programs are offered throughout the year. Guided tours are available, highlighting the life of the Lee family in the early 19th century and the slaves who worked at the plantation.  

Sully Historic Site also hosts featured holiday events like Petite Pumpkin Painters and A Visit with Santa

5. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center - Chantilly, VA

Although you may have heard about the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, do you know the hidden gems it holds inside? Become a child again at the Smithsonian National Air Space and Museum's annex at Washington Dulles International Airport in Chantilly. 

IMG_8017Source: afar.com

Discover space artifacts and exhibitions like Neil Armstrong's spacesuit from the historic Apollo 11 Moon Landing and World War II German Aviation. Exhibits change periodically, so make sure to check what is currently on exhibition.

Spending a day here may not be enough with thousands of aviation and space artifacts on display like the Wright brother's 1903 Wright Flyer and countless rockets, missiles, and hangars.

Get out of the House and Enjoy Some of Fairfax County's Hidden Gems

One thing Fairfax County does not have is a lack of places to explore. Whether you want to take in the outdoor beauty of Fairfax, time travel back to colonial times, or learn the secrets of space, Fairfax County has a hidden gem waiting for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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