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Eating local, seasonal food can make the world of difference to your taste buds. Not only that, but it also promotes the local farms and businesses in your area. Here are some farm-to-table restaurants in and around Fairfax County, Virginia that offer curbside pickup, takeout, or no-contact delivery options to customers. more Gusto Farm to Street Gusto Farm to Street has a location in Chantilly, Virginia, and it lives up to its name. Here you will find wholesome dishes with ingredients sourced from local farms that practice sustainability. Some menu items include the local farmer's salad, seasonal pizza, farmer's wife pizza, and more. You can create your own salad or pizza by selecting from several farm-fresh topping options. Complete your meal with a hand-crafted beverage and a gluten-free chocolate chip cookie for dessert. Silver Diner Silver Diner has locations across the United States, with a location in Fair Oaks, Virginia. This classic diner-style restaurant serves local produce to its customers year-round. The restaurant is partnered with 15 farms in the area to supply meat and produce to this Virginia location. Enjoy farm-fresh ingredients when you dine here. Some menu items include classic American dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches, milkshakes, and customizable burgers. They are also known for the breakfast menu, which includes specialty omelets, avocado toast, buttermilk pancakes, and local flatiron steak and eggs. Hunter's Head Tavern Hunter's Head Tavern is a farm-to-table eatery in the form of an English-style pub. Here, you can enjoy farm-fresh meat and produce that come from nearby Ayrshire Farm. Some of Hunter's Head Tavern's menu items include beer-battered fish & chips, chicken club sandwich, house-made pork bangers and mash, slow-cooked chicken pot pie, mushy peas, and for dessert, sticky toffee pudding or double chocolate cake made using Ayrshire Farm eggs. Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar has a few locations across the U.S., including one in Fairfax County, Virginia. This restaurant prides itself on a seasonal menu that is determined based on the produce available from its trusted farmers. Some menu items include their crispy lettuce wraps, cajun fries, cobb salad, all-American burger, Chicken tortilla soup, pot pies, and butter cakes for those with a sweet tooth. Evening Star Cafe The Evening Star Cafe sets a wonderful example of how growing one's own food can contribute to a bountiful harvest. Located in Alexandria, Virginia, this cafe has its very own 1,360 square-foot-garden on the rooftop. Here, the chef and a local gardener can grow the majority of the vegetables used in their menu items. The next time you want a farm-fresh meal in the Fairfax County area, consider paying a visit to one of these farm-to-table restaurants. Image via Pixabay

Tysons Corner is a community located in Fairfax County, Virginia. If you've never visited then it should take the place on the top of your to-do list. There are restaurants, shops, and many attractions and activities to do to keep you entertained for a fun day out. Here are four reasons to go to Tysons Corner. more Grab a Bite to Eat One of our favorite things to do at Tysons Corner is to eat! They have tons of different restaurants for all taste palates. One of those is American Tandoor with specialties such as Chaat which is a savory dish from India. They also have Sati's Chicken Wings and Lamb Boti Kebabs which are both delicious. Another great eatery here is Barrel and Bushel. They serve up delicious beer, bourbon, and classic American cuisine. Try their pan-seared jumbo scallops, amber maple salmon, and hot fried chicken. Yum! All the restaurants at Tyson’s Corner offer takeout options to keep customers safe and healthy in Fairfax, VA. Do Some High-End Shopping at Tyson's Galleria Tyson's Galleria has premier shopping with some seriously luxurious shops. Check out Chanel, Versace, or Burberry for a special gift for yourself. Don't worry, you deserve it. They also have a Louis Vuitton Store, Prada, and a Neiman Marcus. If you're looking for somewhere to visit for a day to yourself, this is it. You can find an amazing purse, outfit, and just about anything else you could dream of. This high-fashion center is a wonderful way to pamper yourself or those you love. Enjoy Some Family Fun There's no shortage of things to do with the family at Tysons Corner. Head over to the AMC Theater and see one of the latest movies in one of their 16 different state-of-the-art theaters. They have an IMAX, RealD 3D, and an ETX auditorium all located on level three of the Tysons Corner Center. During the summer months, they host a summer concert series with free performances for everyone. On Thursday mornings they offer a StrollerStrides program so you can get some exercise with your little ones. In addition to the above attractions and activities, they have a large kids' play area. This 1,000 square-foot area features different play areas with parent seating options. There's even a separate toddler zone so kids of all ages can burn off some of that pent-up energy. On The Plaza, they even have games available such as cornhole, chess, tumbling towers, and table tennis. Get Your Shopping Done at the Center For some affordable shopping, you can check out Tysons Corner Center. If you're shopping for the kids you can check out Abercrombie Kids, the American Girl store, Build-A-Bear, the Disney Store, and Claire's. Stop by Barnes and Noble and Bath and Body Works to pick out your next favorite book and candle to cozy up with at home. If you want to refresh your wardrobe then make sure and stop by the Coach store, Express, H&M, and Lululemon Athletica. We hope you enjoy your family outing at Tysons Corner! We love it here and we're sure you will too. From shopping at the best stores to being able to enjoy some fine dining, there's plenty to do here. Have fun! Image via Pixabay

Coffee people, gather around. Get your friends and your family and get ready to find out where to find the best cup of joe. Whether your preferred coffee is a cappuccino, a latte, or straight black we have put together a list of some great shops where you can get your coffee fix in Fairfax. more De Clieu Coffee May your coffee be strong and your workday short. De Clieu Coffee strives to get you that strong cup of coffee to help you power through your day. Try one of their specialty drinks like the Dirty Hippie, Honey Charcoal Latte, or a Coconut Mocha. They also have traditional drinks such as Caramel Macchiato as well as espresso drinks. To keep customers safe, De Clieu Coffee also has a takeout option for their menu. Don't forget to grab your breakfast, like a croissant or a breakfast sandwich, so you have some nutrients to make it through to lunch. De Clieu is located at 10389 Main St. B and is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Duck Donuts Take your coffee with you from Duck Donuts. They know that you can't buy happiness but you can buy coffee, and it's pretty much the same thing. They have a great menu to prove it. Enjoy a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee any way you like it. They also have delicious lattes topped with whipped cream and actual thirst-quenching iced coffee. They also offer teas and hot chocolate. Duck Donuts is found at 10694 Fairfax Blvd. from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Duck Donuts also has an online order option for customers so take the time to reach out to them about deliveries! A bad day with a great cup of coffee is better than any day with no coffee at all. Check out one of these great coffee shops right here in Fairfax for a nice brew served with friendly attitudes. We hope you love them all as much as we do. Image via Pixabay

The Fairfax area has an incredible selection of great breweries and many of them serve delicious food to accompany their original beer products. Take a look at some of the best breweries that Fairfax has to offer. more Ornery Beer Company Ornery Beer Company has two locations in the Fairfax area. The brewery boasts an impressive assortment of over 18 beers that'll surely satisfy any of your preferences when it comes to flavor and alcohol content. While at Ornery Beer Company, you can also order food typical of the southern United States, including wings, shrimp, steak, and pasta. If you find yourself visiting this brewery on a consistent basis, you can join the Ornery Mug Club to earn loyalty rewards and benefits with each visit and special occasion. Settle Down Easy Brewing At Settle Down Easy Brewing, you'll be able to choose between 12 original beers that range greatly in official alcohol content and ingredients. Rather than having a full restaurant menu, Settle Down Easy includes a taco stand right in the brewery. That means you can pair your favorite local beer with any variety of Mexican or Tex-Mex tacos or other Mexican appetizers sold at the stand. As part of the SDE Privy Council, you and a group of friends or colleagues can join forces and earn membership perks with each visit. Ono Brewing Company Ono Brewing Company is a self-serve beer tasting room that's very different from its competitors. The brewery offers a selection of ten different beers and charges by the ounce rather than by the serving, which allows you greater opportunity to sample many different beers at once. While in the tasting room, you can order from Odd BBQ, which sells the most perfect two-meat platters to pair with your beer. If you enjoy social occasions, Ono Brewing Company also hosts a happy hour several days per week as well as tours of the brewery. BadWolf Brewing Company BadWolf Brewing Company is a brewery that stands by its promise to sell beer that's unfiltered and unpasteurized. While at BadWolf Brewing Company, you have a selection between about eight small-batch beers that you can sample by ordering flights (or just order a whole cup). When it comes to food options at BadWolf Brewing Company, you'll be able to get something different every time, because local food trucks tend to stop nearby. You also have the ability to just visit some of the other local restaurants to order some takeout to bring with you. Final Thoughts The Fairfax area has a lot to offer, but even more so if you're talking about beer and food. The area actually has a remarkable number of brewpubs that you can visit year-round to sample local beers and get a bite to eat. If you've already previously visited all of these brewpubs or you just like a variety of options to try out more local beers, take a look at this list. Image via Pixabay

There's a time and a place for everything. Although a fine-dining experience is memorable, sushi is tasty, and pizza always welcome, there are times when one simply has to savor a juicy burger. If you live in and around Fairfax, you have many options when it comes to finding a good burger. To give you an idea of what's on offer, here are three burger joints that offer excellent burgers, friendly service, and pleasant venues. more Oh George! Tables & Taphouse Oh George! is a restaurant and taphouse that boasts a modern, industrial venue that features an open plan design with lots of metal, glass, and wood. If you're wondering about the name of the venue, the paintings that line the walls, featuring all the famous Georges in history, serve as an adequate explanation. Apart from the 24 craft beers on tap, the venue also offers excellent taphouse fare. On the menu are a selection of fire-roasted pizzas, specialties, such as shrimp & grits and herb-crusted salmon, and fresh salads. However, it's the burgers, which are a custom blend of short rib, brisket or chuck, that steal the show. Options include the Oh George! Burger, which is a classic cheeseburger on a toasted brioche bun; the Bourbon Mushroom Burger, served with Swiss cheese and house steak sauce; and the Black & Bleu Burger that comes with blue cheese fondue, smoked bacon, and tomato jam. Red Hot & Bleu Red Hot & Blue is a Memphis-style barbecue restaurant that features a blues theme, as the histories of both barbecue and blues music are rooted in the Deep South. The atmosphere at this barbecue joint captures the essence of the blues, which is created through the handpicked memorabilia and the classic rhythm and blues playing in the background. However, folks don't just come to Red Hot & Blue for the atmosphere; rather, it's the delicious dishes on the menu that lure patrons back to this popular joint. Apart from the authentic barbecue offerings, such a pulled pork, brisket, pulled chicken, and smoked ribs, the menu also features delicious burgers. You can tuck into the All-In, prepared with pulled pork, onion rings, and cheese; the Hickory, featuring bacon sauteed onion, and cheese; or a Hoochie Coochie, served with Cajun sauce, onion rings, and cheese. Fuddruckers Fuddruckers is a chain that claims to serve the World's Greatest Hamburgers — which may not be far off the mark. At this burger joint, they only use fresh, 100% USDA All-American premium cut beef in their patties, which they offer in three sizes: 1/3, 1/2, or 2/3 pounds. Patrons choose their patty and then build their own gourmet burger at the Build Your Own fresh produce bar, which features sun ripened tomatoes, dill pickles, sliced onions, fresh lettuce, pico de gallo, and much more. To top it all off, Fuddruckers serves crispy sesame-topped buns that are freshly baked in their on-site bakery daily. Next time you're in a mood for a delicious and juicy burger, pop by these joints where you will receive a good burger, served by friendly and attentive staff in a pleasant environment. Image via Pixabay

If you're looking for places in Fairfax where you can enjoy a pleasant night out, you are spoiled for choice. The Fairfax area is home to multiple night clubs, sports bars, pubs, and lounges where you can relax with friends and family. Here are a few places that you may want to pay a visit on your next night off. more The Auld Shebeen If you like to dig into a hearty Guinness beef stew or a tasty shepherd's pie, head down to The Auld Shebeen, which is Fairfax city's only authentic Irish pub and restaurant. There are other Irish pub favorites on the dinner menu, such as Irish sausages and mash and cottage pie, as well as house specialties like a braised beef brisket and crab-stuffed salmon. For those night owls, there's also a late-night menu that offers soft pretzels, Scotch eggs, a shebeen salad, and juicy burgers. However, there's more to do at The Auld Shebeen than dine. You can also compete in a pub quiz, show off your voice at karaoke, or enjoy some traditional Irish music. Or, head downstairs to the cellar where you can dance the night away to hard rock or techno music. Revolution Billiards For those who like to spend their nights off participating in games, such a billiards and darts, should drop by Revolution Darts & Billiards. This sports bar, which has recently received a complete overhaul, boasts a dart area that features 18 well-lit and well-spaced dartboards. The venue also features a billiard and bar area, which is home to multiple billiard tables, a large bar counter, and scattered tables and chairs where patrons can relax. Low lighting, plenty of dark wood, deep-red painted walls, and upscale carpet lend the place a warm and cozy atmosphere. Apart from challenging your friends to a game of billiards or darts, you can also participate in the fun events on offer at the venue. Depending on the night you decide to drop by, there may be an open-mic event, a poker night, a bar pong competition, or a country evening complete with line dancing. If you get peckish, Revolution serves tasty sandwiches, wraps, juicy burgers, and fresh soups and salads. Epicure Cafe For an artistic evening and delicious Mediterranean-style cuisine, head down to Epicure Cafe. This family-owned restaurant and lounge feature a stylish roof deck where patrons can enjoy a specialty cocktail and a gourmet pizza, and, of course, mouth-watering Mediterranean dishes. On the menu are falafel-hearted artichokes, served with cabbage slaw and hummus; a Mediterranean platter with dolma, kookoo sabzi, pita, falafel, and tzatziki sauce; and Persian chicken kabob. The interior of the venue is decorated in an eclectic and Bohemian fashion, which provides a fitting background for the musicians, poets, storytellers, and visual artists who perform and share their work at Epicure. Whether you like to relax with friends in an authentic Irish pub, beat them at a game of billiards, or enjoy some local artistic talent over a gourmet pizza, Fairfax is home to the perfect nightspot for you. Image via Pixabay

With Valentines Day approaching, your thoughts may turn to romance. The area around Fairfax, Virginia, boasts a number of stylish restaurants that provide the perfect ambiance for a romantic dinner. Here are four of the best. more 21 Great American Bistro With its exposed brickwork, dark wood furniture, tasteful decor, subtle lighting, and candlelit tables, 21 Great American Bistro on North Street creates an intimate atmosphere that is perfect for Valentine's Day. The menu features American classic dishes along with French, Italian, and Spanish influences. Before dinner, you could enjoy one of the superbly-made traditional cocktails. The dinner menu offers a variety of fresh salads and “Teasers” such as baked Brie en croute, grilled beef lollipops, artichoke and spinach dip, scallops and mussels. Entrees include Sous-Vide Duck Breast, Duroc pork chop, Lamb Rack Provencale, and fish dishes like salmon filet, barramundi, and Seafood Royale. Vegetarian options are also available. Dolce Vita Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar Dolce Vita on Fairfax Boulevard has a separate wine bar and restaurant. The wine bar offers the casual ambiance of a traditional Italian tasting room with wine racks covering the walls. It offers cozy seating inside and an outdoor all-season patio. The bar menu features cicchetti (small plates) that are ideal for sharing. A large selection of wines is available by the glass or bottle. The restaurant has a relaxed, rustic feel with hand-painted murals on the walls. Aromas of fresh herbs and the wood-fired oven waft from the open kitchen. Choose from a variety of antipasti, soups, and salads to start your meal. Main courses include a range of pasta and risotto, meat and seafood dishes, and wood-fired pizzas. 703 Bar & Kitchen Tucked away in the Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks, the 703 Bar & Kitchen features contemporary decor and a comfortable and relaxed ambiance. The service is friendly and attentive without being intrusive. The bar offers an extensive wine list, rotating local beers, and an awesome range of Bourbons served by Bourbon certified bartenders. The menu is influenced by south-eastern American cuisine and features appetizers such as Mom's Pimento Cheese, smoked brisket spring rolls, breaded almond Brie, and crispy Brussels sprouts. For your main course, you could choose Jambalaya, seared Cajun cobia, shrimp and Anson Mills grits, bison meatloaf, or fried chicken and waffle. Clarity A short distance from Fairfax is Clarity, a tastefully decorated restaurant on Maple Avenue East in Vienna that offers a fine dining experience. The knowledgeable servers provide personal and professional service, and the chefs go out of their way to adapt dishes to be just the way you want them. The menu changes daily, but you can expect to find appetizers like Coriander Spiced Oiishi Shrimp Salad, Drunken Heritage Pork Belly, and Emilia Romagna Style Raddiatori. Main courses feature items such as Cast Iron Roasted North Dakota Capon, Caramelized Day Boat Scallops, and Matsutake Mushroom & Farro Risotto. These restaurants will help to kindle the fires of love in your heart as you enjoy a special meal with your Valentine. Image via Pixabay

Fairfax, Virginia, offers a variety of places where you can get a good drink. If wine is your beverage of choice, you'll discover numerous wine bars serving a variety of great options. When you want to kick back and relax with a nice glass of wine, be sure to visit one of these top wine bars in the area. more The Wine House Located in the heart of downtown Fairfax, The Wine House is a locally owned and operated wine bar and bistro that features a collection of more than 500 wines from around the world. If you decide you want to have a meal with your wine, the menu has delicious options that include jumbo lump crab cake, pan-roasted chicken breast, chipotle-rubbed ahi tuna, and wild-caught Icelandic cod. The Wine House also offers a variety of weekly events, such as free wine tastings on Saturday and discounted wine flights on Wednesday. Blend 111 Travel about 5 miles northeast of Fairfax to Vienna to find Blend 111. This sustainable restaurant and wine bar serves plates of food and glasses of wine that have a global influence. When you visit the wine shop, you'll discover a selection of organic wines sourced from regions in France and Spain. If you're interested in having a meal, you can start with the organic onion soup or roasted Brussels sprouts for your appetizer. Popular main courses include the saffron scallops, pan-seared salmon, Impossible plant-based burger, and filet mignon. Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar is a warm restaurant located in the heart of Fairfax that serves fine Italian cuisine and wines. The wine bar has an impressive selection served by the glass and by the bottle. You can enjoy your wine at the large granite bar, at one of the tables in the tasting room, or on the all-season patio. The restaurant also has a bar menu that serves small plates that are great for sharing. Or you can order one of the larger plates from the restaurant. 703 Bar + Kitchen When you stop by 703 Bar + Kitchen, you'll enjoy contemporary dishes infused with flavors of the Southeast. The restaurant also has an extensive wine selection that includes whites, reds, roses, and champagnes. If you like white wine, consider the Pinot Grigio from Italy or the Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. If you're in the mood for red wine, the Cabernet from Napa and the Malbec from Argentina are both excellent options. Oakton Wine Shop & Bistro Oakton Wine Shop & Bistro is a cozy store situated 3 miles north of Fairfax in Oakton. In addition to craft beers and artisanal foods, you'll also find a great selection of global wines. If you're interested in learning more about wine, stop by the shop for one of the regular wine classes hosted throughout the year. The classes include expert examinations of wines and small bites to eat. No matter what type of wine you enjoy, you're sure to find the perfect glass when you stop by one of these excellent wine bars in Fairfax. Image via Pixabay

Fairfax City, Virginia, is a bustling city that boasts a rich history, old architecture, interesting cultural activities, and a proliferation of interesting shops and great restaurants. If you are into a good cup of coffee, Fairfax also offers many excellent coffee shops. Here are a few examples. more Cameron's Coffee and Chocolates Cameron's Coffee and Chocolates is a delightful little shop that sells homemade chocolates, bars, cupcakes, and cookies. If you are looking for a gift, the shop boasts ready-to-go bags filled with delicious treats like chocolate-dipped marshmallow pops and sweet or spiced nuts. Cameron's also offers a variety of coffees, such as drip coffee, espresso, cappuccino, cafe au lait, and Americano, as well as teas, frozen coffee shakes, and fruit smoothies. You can also sit down for a light meal at one of the half-a-dozen tables in this clean and pleasant venue. On the breakfast menu are offerings like home-baked quiche, yogurt parfaits, granola with steamed milk, muffins, and scones. If you visit Cameron's over lunch, you can choose from a variety of wraps, including Chicken BLT, Chicken Fajita, and Veggie Delight, or you could opt for the Asian Chicken Salad. Cameron's is the first business enterprise of the nonprofit foundation, Every1 Can Work, and is staffed by adults with special needs. Knowing that you're supporting a good cause adds to the joy of biting into a freshly-baked cupcake! Simply Social Coffee If you're a coffee connoisseur be sure to drop in at Simply Social Coffee. They offer an extensive coffee menu that includes drip coffee, espresso, cappuccino, cortado, Americano, macchiato, and a variety of lattes and frappucinos, all brewed from El Fuego or Tin Lizzie beans. Those who prefer their morning tea will also not be disappointed, as the shop offers a fine selection of teas, such as French Lemon Ginger, Jasmine Pearl, and Green Tea Pomegranate. The venue is modern and attractive, featuring a lounge area and a scattering of tables with striking white chairs where patrons can make themselves comfortable. On the menu is a selection of gourmet sandwiches, such as the Breakfast Sandwich that comes with two cage-free eggs and the client's choice of cheese and bread, or the Pesto Chicken Melt, featuring grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese, spinach, and basil pesto. De Clieu Coffee and Sandwich At De Clieu Coffee and Sandwich they only serve locally-roasted coffee that is prepared from high-quality Arabic beans. The coffee menu boasts a wide selection, including espresso affogato, cortado, Cubano, mocha, Caffe latte, and Americano latte, and clients can opt for soy, almond, or coconut milk for their brews. The venue is spacious, featuring a large counter with glass-case displays where patrons can order their coffee before taking a seat at one of the many and different-sized tables. Patrons who are hungry can choose from a selection of top-grade sandwiches, such as the Yankee Club with turkey, bacon, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, and twist challah, or the Lorraine, which features bacon, ham, onion, cheese, and a hand-crafted cream-cheese crust. If you enjoy a good cup of coffee, a freshly-prepared light meal, and friendly and attentive service, be sure to drop by these coffee shops next time you are in Fairfax. Image via Pixabay

If you live in Fairfax and have decided to enjoy a staycation during your next break, it doesn't mean you have to stay at home all the time. As a staycation is saving you a lot of money, you should spoil yourself by spending a few days at one of the luxurious, yet affordable, hotels in the area. Here are a few suggestions: more Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax The Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax is a convenient and comfortable staycation spot. Located off Highway 50, it's in close proximity to Fair Ridge Park, Fair Oaks Mall, the Udvar-Hazy National Air and Space Museum, and Reston Town Center. The hotel offers guests a free shuttle service to all attractions within a three-mile radius, as well as to Vienna Metro Station. The rooms are spacious and attractive, featuring a 32-inch HDTV, free Wi-Fi, a work area with an ergonomic chair, and a hospitality center with a fridge, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker. Hilton Garden Inn features an on-site restaurant, the Garden Grille & Bar, where guests can enjoy breakfast and a la carte lunch and dinner. Amenities include an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a 24-hour sundries shop. Courtyard Dunn Loring Fairfax Courtyard Dunn Loring Fairfax is a modern and plush hotel that is perfect for a staycation getaway. This hotel is located in Vienna, Fairfax, and lies within a 10-minute drive from the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts and is also a short walk away from the Mosaic District, where you can shop, dine, and attend local events. The rooms are large and boast modern furniture and beds with Egyptian cotton sheets. All rooms offer free Wi-Fi and wired internet access, an ergonomic workstation, a 49-inch LCD TV, a fridge, and a coffee maker. Depending on the type of room you opt for, your room may also feature a pullout sofa bed and a lounge area. Guests receive a complimentary continental breakfast and can enjoy lunch, supper, and handcrafted cocktails at the on-site restaurant, The Bistro. If you want to work off those calories, you can make use of the 24-hour fitness center, or go for a swim in the indoor pool. Hyatt Regency Fairfax Located in a quiet and beautifully landscaped setting, Hyatt Regency Fairfax hotel is the perfect spot for a staycation. The hotel is walking distance from premium shopping and fine restaurants and also offers a complimentary three-mile area shuttle service. The spacious and luxurious rooms feature a 55-inch TV, a generous workspace, a sofa sleeper, a fridge, a coffee maker, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can unwind in the indoor lap pool and whirlpool, or break a sweat in the 24-hour fitness center. If you prefer to exercise outdoors, you can also make use of the biking and jogging trails around the hotel. The hotel features the NoVa Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and supper, as well as premium wines and liquors and signature cocktails. Treat yourself during your staycation by booking into one of these comfortable and luxurious hotels for a few days. it is important to get away a bit, even during a staycation, and you will return home feeling refreshed and recharged. Image via Pixabay

The winter season is magical in more ways than one and many winter activities and events become cherished memories for families and friends. That is why we hope that you are able to find some winter fun in Alexandria at one or more of these five attractions. Get out and enjoy yourselves this upcoming holiday season. more Go See “A Christmas Carol” Go back to the old days with the classic “A Christmas Carol” live at the Little Theatre of Alexandria. They will be ringing in the holiday season with this Charles Dickens classic December 6th through the 22nd.  Follow Ebenezer Scrooge as he travels through Christmas past, present, and future. There will be Christmas carols, special effects, and more. This is a definite must-see for the entire family. The price for admission is $20 per ticket. Attend the Holiday Ball On December 21st, you can swing by the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center for the 2019 Holiday Ball. Dance the night away with friends and take the opportunity to make some new ones. There will be dinner, dancing, and live entertainment from bands and DJs. No jeans allowed at this winter event. It will start at 8 p.m. and end at 2 a.m. so there is plenty of time for fun. Check out the Holiday Market During the first three weekends in December, head out to Del Ray Artisans Gallery for their 24th annual Holiday Market. Vendors will be selling handcrafted crafts and different arts, including glassworks, jewelry, paintings, and more. Why not get some of your last-minute holiday shopping done while supporting locals? The artists will vary depending on which weekend you choose to go, but there is definitely something for everyone. Admission to this event is free. Watch the Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights The annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is a great way to welcome the winter season. This amazing event takes place on December 7th at 5:30 p.m. this year. You can see dozens of boats completely decked out with holiday lights, as they cruise along the historical waterfront of the Potomac River. This is truly a sight to behold each year for visitors and locals alike. Additional activities will be available dockside for your enjoyment. Go See Collingwood Lights Collingwood Lights is a local neighborhood favorite during the holiday season. For the last 21 years, Bill Vaughan has decorated his home for everyone to enjoy and get in the holiday spirit. He has even been featured on national television for his annual displays, so this is a must-see this winter season. You can find videos of his previous displays online to check out before you go so you can get a taste of what to expect. You can find this amazing light feature at 1601 Collingwood Rd. Whether you want to attend an event or check out the holiday lights in our area, Alexandria has a lot to offer this winter. We hope you find some winter fun at one, or more, of these activities. Image via Pixabay

Alexandria is a beautiful town full of wonder and history. From the first European settlement to the establishment of a significant port city, the town's history is far from short. Like every town though, Alexandria has some things that aren't always kept on the surface. Keep reading to find out six things you might not know about the history of Alexandria. more Alexandria Was a Supply Center During the Civil War In 1861, the town of Alexandria, Virginia, became a supply center for the Federal Army during the Civil War. Troops and various supplies were transported to the town through the port and the railroad and were then dispersed where they needed to be at the front lines. There were hospitals and medical buildings that housed wounded soldiers that were brought back to the city by train. This allowed the city to remain intact. It didn't sustain any major damage during the war like many of the other towns in the area. The Town Was a Thriving Trading Post In the 1700s, Alexandria was a very profitable town for crops of all kinds. Farmers grew crops such as hemp, tobacco, corn, and wheat. The community set up a trading and shipping port so that people could gather and exchange the crops they had grown for products they needed, in order to survive. This well-established port kept the economy booming and allowed the town's inhabitants to flourish. Alexandria Dates Back Thousands of Centuries The city of Alexandria is old, and in fact, dates back thousands of centuries. There have been several different Native American artifacts that date back as much as 13,200 years ago. The land used to be inhabited solely by Native American tribes from the Conoy chiefdom. As early as 1600 A.D., there were people using this prosperous land for hunting and fishing. The City is Full of Historical Sites Alexandria is home to many different historical sites and events. These places include the Historic District, Fairlington, Rosemont, the Town of Potomac, Parkfairfax, and the Uptown/Parker-Gray National Register Historic District. A visit to any of these sites is sure to result in a rich history lesson. The Alexandria Canal Was Important During the 1800s From 1843 to 1866, the Alexandria Canal was an important physical location for the economy of the town. The canal ran from its terminal in Georgetown and carried across the Potomac River and then ran down the Virginia shore. It eventually descended by three lift locks and barges. The canal system was seven miles long in its entirety. Turn of the Century As 1900 advanced upon the city, they saw more types of goods to trade, such as wheat, beer, leather, and fertilizer. As time went on, well-known people came to town, including Gerald Ford and President Woodrow Wilson. Gerald Ford moved to Alexandria in 1955 and lived there during his term as Vice President of the United States. Alexandria is a city rich in history, dating back hundreds and even thousands of years. A trip to Alexandria may be in order if you are interested in learning more about any of these facts. Image via Pixabay