
Located in the northeastern corner of the state and not far from downtown Washington, D.C., the city of Fairfax, VA, offers plenty of opportunities to go on day trips and explore the wonderful destinations of the region. Whether you want to explore a vibrant city full of museums and good restaurants or take your loved ones on an outdoor adventure in a national forest, these are some nearby spots you should check out.
Washington, D.C.
Thanks to its proximity and easy access, the capital city of the United States is, unsurprisingly, the most popular day-trip destination among Fairfax residents. The National Mall and other famous attractions are located less than 20 miles east of downtown Fairfax, making it possible to reach them in about half an hour by car along route I-66. If you are looking for an urban destination with historic sights and famous local attractions, Washington, D.C. is always a great idea.
Once you make your way to the city, a good place to start exploring is Union Station, where you can find plenty of parking spots for your car. From here, you can easily walk to the United States Capitol and head west towards the Washington Monument, from where you can see The White House and Lincoln Memorial. If you have time, make sure to check out at least one of the different Smithsonian Museums, which offer free entry every day.
Alexandria
Home to a charming historic center full of local restaurants, antique shops, small boutiques, museums, and theaters, the city of Alexandria is another top-rated destination for Fairfax residents. Home to about 160,000 inhabitants, Alexandria is a relatively small city with compact and walkable neighborhoods, as well as a booming gastronomic scene that caters to both tourists and residents who commute to and from Washington D.C. and other large urban areas in the northeast.
The Alexandria city center is located about 17 miles east of downtown Fairfax and can be reached in about 20 minutes by car along routes VA-236 and I-495. Once you find a parking spot, a great place to start exploring is the Alexandria Historic District, where you can go for a walk along its charming streets and check out its small cafés and restaurants. Some of the places you should check out include the Old Town Alexandria Waterfront and Founders Park.
Prince William Forest Park
Established in 1936 and covering an area of about 16,000 acres, Prince William Forest Park is an excellent day trip destination for Fairfax residents looking for a nature escape and a break from the urban routine. Welcoming almost 400,000 visitors each year, this nature reserve is an excellent spot for recreational activities including wildlife watching, hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Getting here from downtown Fairfax takes about 40 minutes by car along routes VA-123 and I-95.
If you are looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle to take your family on memorable road trips, make sure to stop by Jim McKay Chevrolet in Fairfax, VA! Check out our inventory, talk to one of our friendly and knowledgeable team members, and take home a car that adapts to your needs.


