Fairfax county attractions
Discover Central Fairfax County A family-friendly destination for recreation, culture and history
Central Fairfax County is a vibrant region filled with opportunities for families to
explore, learn and play. With its mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences and historical
landmarks, the communities of Oakton, Merrifield, Mosaic, Burke, Fairfax Station, Fair Lakes, Fair Oaks
and Greenbriar offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to spend a day in nature, dive
into local history or enjoy seasonal events; Central Fairfax County has it all.
Outdoor Adventures with Fairfax County Parks
Fairfax County Parks and Recreation provides countless opportunities for families to connect with
nature and enjoy the outdoors. These parks are designed to offer fun for all ages while preserving the
area’s natural beauty.
Burke Lake Park
Burke Lake Park is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. The park features a scenic
218-acre lake perfect for fishing, boating and kayaking. Families can explore more than 4 miles of
trails for hiking or biking that wind through picturesque woodlands. For younger visitors, the park
offers a miniature train ride and carousel — classic attractions that delight children year-round.
Picnic areas and playgrounds provide space for family gatherings or casual outings, while the
park’s golf driving range and disc golf course add extra fun for older kids and adults.
Ellanor C. Lawrence Park
This park in Chantilly is a favorite destination for families who love both nature and history. The
park features miles of trails through forests and meadows where visitors can spot wildlife such as deer
or birds. Educational programs hosted by naturalists offer hands-on experiences like guided nature walks
or scavenger hunts that teach kids about the local ecosystem. The park also preserves historic sites
from the 18th and 19th centuries, providing a glimpse into the area’s past.
Greenbriar Park
Located in Greenbriar, this community park is perfect for casual family outings. It features sports
fields where kids can play soccer or baseball, picnic areas for relaxing lunches outdoors and
playgrounds where children can climb and explore.
Oakmont Recreation Center
This facility in Oakton offers something for everyone in the family. It includes an indoor swimming
pool with lap lanes, diving boards and a leisure pool area that’s perfect for kids learning to
swim. The center also features fitness equipment, racquetball courts, mini-golf facilities and
multipurpose rooms where classes are held year-round. Families can take advantage of affordable swimming
lessons or participate in group fitness programs tailored to all ages.
Nature-Themed Events
Fairfax County Parks regularly host family-friendly events throughout the year. From night hikes to
learn about nocturnal animals to birdwatching programs and craft workshops using natural materials,
there are always new activities to discover. Seasonal events like fall hayrides or springtime egg hunts
add extra excitement to visits.
Cultural Experiences
Mosaic District in Merrifield
The Mosaic District is a lively destination where families can enjoy a mix of shopping, dining and
entertainment in an open-air setting. Seasonal events like outdoor movie nights in Strawberry Park or
holiday festivals make it a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Public art
installations throughout the district add a creative touch to your visit.
Workshops and Classes at Local Parks
Fairfax County Parks offer a variety of workshops designed to engage children in creative play and
learning experiences. Art classes, STEM-focused programs and nature exploration activities are just some
of the ways families can spend quality time together while learning new skills.
Recreation Centers
Fairfax County recreation centers are hubs of activity year-round, offering swimming pools, fitness
classes for all ages and programs tailored to children’s interests such as gymnastics or martial
arts lessons. These centers also host summer camps focused on sports, arts or science —
perfect for keeping kids active during school breaks.
Historical Exploration
Historic Fairfax Courthouse
During the Civil War, this building was occupied by both Union and Confederate troops. In the spring of
1862, the Union Army took possession of the courthouse for the rest of the war. It was reported that the
building was gutted and many records were lost or destroyed. The building you see today was fully
restored in 1967. Fairfax Circuit Court Historic Records Center is located in the Courthouse on the
first floor in Suite 1600. They have records dating from the formation of Fairfax County in 1742 through
the early 1900s.
Fairfax Station Railroad Museum
History comes alive at this museum in Fairfax Station, which highlights the area’s role as a
Civil War supply hub and its connection to the railroad industry. Families can explore exhibits on local
history while kids enjoy interactive model train displays that bring the past to life.
Colvin Run Mill
Step back in time at this 19th-century water-powered mill near Great Falls. Guided tours provide
insight into how grain was processed before modern technology took over, while hands-on activities let
children try their hand at traditional tools and techniques.
Ox Hill Battlefield Park
Ox Hill Battlefield Park preserves the site of Fairfax County’s only major Civil War battle, the
Battle of Ox Hill (also known as the Battle of Chantilly). This small but significant park features
interpretive trails with wayside markers that recount how Union troops clashed with Confederate forces
during a ferocious thunderstorm on September 1, 1862. Visitors can view monuments dedicated to Union
generals Isaac Stevens and Philip Kearny — both killed during the battle — and learn about
the soldiers’ experiences through interactive exhibits.
Shopping
Fair Oaks Mall
One of the region’s largest premier shopping destinations in Fairfax, Virginia, Fair Oaks
features nearly 160 stores, services and dining options. The unique two-level enclosed center features
Macy’s, Dave & Busters and JCPenney, along with a great tenant mix of Children’s Science
Center Lab, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Sephora, The Piano Outlet and
Williams-Sonoma, with restaurants including the Cheesecake Factory, Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, Mezeh
Mediterranean Grill, Texas de Brazil Steakhouse and Ugly Dumpling.
Fairfax Corner
Fairfax Corner is an exciting “destination” in the truest and best sense of the word, with
everything integrated into a cohesive ensemble of walkable streets, public places and architecturally
striking buildings. Planned on the basis of traditional “main streets,” Fairfax Corner
provides shoppers, office employees and residents with fun things to do and the energy of being a part
of an urban-feeling project.
Mosaic
Mosaic elevates the community experience to a new standard by creating a vibrant, sophisticated
environment that connects families and friends together. This unique district is created through a
hand-selected mix of retailers & restaurants, intelligent urban design and our passion for enabling
authentic community engagement.
Seasonal Activities
Burke Lake Park’s Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, Burke Lake Park hosts seasonal activities that bring families together to
celebrate nature’s changing seasons. Fall hayrides through colorful foliage are always a hit with
visitors young and old, while summer campfires with storytelling create lasting memories under starry
skies.
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens’ Winter Walk of Lights
During the holiday season, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens transforms into a dazzling wonderland of lights
with themed displays that enchant visitors of all ages.
Farmers Markets & Festivals
Farmers markets across central Fairfax County provide fresh produce alongside family-friendly
entertainment like live music or cooking demonstrations with local chefs.
Plan Your Visit Today!
Central Fairfax County is brimming with opportunities to explore its parks, history, culture and
community events together as a family. Whether you’re hiking through scenic trails at Burke Lake
Park or learning about local history at Ox Hill Battlefield Park, there’s no shortage of ways to
create lasting memories in this vibrant region! With so much to see and do year-round —
you’ll find yourself coming back again and again to experience everything Central Fairfax County
has to offer!
“The Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce is a wonderful, dynamic organization. There
is an incredible amount of high-quality monthly programming. Jennifer Rose, as Executive
Director, has grown the Chamber very substantially and is committed to seeing her members’
businesses succeed. Joining is a great investment!”
Sharon Ricciardi, SVP/Director of
Business Development, FVCbank