1.Friday Night Live: A yearly free concert series, from May until the end of August. Takes place on the Herndon Town Green on Friday nights.
www.herndonrocks.com
2. Reston Town Center: The center of the planned community of Reston, the Town Center has a multitude of stores and restaurants all in one spot. There are year-round special events.
http://www.restontowncenter.com/
3. Oatlands Plantation: Originally established in the 19th century by George Carter, it is now a National Trust Historic Site and a National Historic Landmark. The Historic House and Gardens are open year round near Leesburg.
http://www.oatlands.org/
4. The Water Mine: The only local water park, named for Pete the Prospector. Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the park is located in Lake Fairfax Park.
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/watermine/
5. Lake Anne Plaza: Nestled around a lake the outdoor cafes and shops offer a chance to enjoy without a car. There are many activities from concert, to boat rentals and many children’s programs.
http://www.lakeanneplaza.com/
6. Colvin Run Mill: Located in Great Falls, Colvin Run Mill is an early 19th century operating gristmill. The mill is still operational and offers daily tours, educational programs and special events.
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm/
7. Wolf Trap: America’s National Park for the Performing Arts, Wolf Trap provides a variety of artistic and educational programs. There are year round performances at The Barns at Wolf Trap, an indoor theater constructed from two connected 18th century barns.
http://www.wolftrap.org/
8. Mt. Vernon: The home of George Washington, has special events and seasonal activities. There is a an 18th century working farm and gristmill as well as exhibits.
http://www.mountvernon.org/index.cfm?
9. Sully Historic Site: The house, first built in 1794 by Richard Bland Lee, Northern Virginia’s first congressional representative. Tours and programs are available throughout the year.
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/Sully/
10. National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar- Hazy Center: Located in a Boeing Aviation Hanger in Chantilly, this site features an IMAX theater, a wall of honor and an observation tower to watch Dulles Airport.
http://www.nasm.si.edu/udvarhazy/
<hd> Get outside!
<sh> Enjoy the outdoors with the parks and outdoor areas around Herndon
Frying Pan Park: The park features a farm with animals, wagon rides, a country store, visitor center as well as activities. Located on West Ox Rd.
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp/
Lake Fairfax Park: Open everyday 7 a.m. to dark, the park features seasonal fishing, campgrounds, picnic areas, trails, party areas, a carousel and a playground. Located in Reston, off Baron Cameron Dr.
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lakefairfax/
The W&OD Park and Trail: The trail runs from the Potomac River, near Washington D.C., to the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is a 45-mile asphalt trail for biking, walking and running, as well as a 30.5-mile gravel trail for horseback riding and hiking. The trail runs through downtown Herndon.
Lake Thoreau and Lake Audubon: Popular fishing and bird watching spots. Located behind the South Lakes Village Center, off South Lakes Dr.
http://www.restonpaths.com/LakeAudubon/index.htm
Reston Zoo: A 30-acre family friendly zoo, with regular animal demonstrations and a chance to get close to the animals. Located in Reston, off Hunter Mill Rd.
http://www.restonzoo.com/