Fun things to do year-round in Fairfax County

GET OUTDOORS ALL YEAR ROUND! Operating 416 parks on nearly 23,000 acres of parkland, the Fairfax County Park Authority provides innumerable opportunities for residents to launch their healthy lifestyle all year round. Along with over 300 miles of trails, the Park Authority offers programs for all age groups at Rec Centers, golf courses, and historic sites. Cycling, hiking, geocaching, and volunteering are just some of the healthy ways residents can enjoy the outdoors in Fairfax County’s award winning park system in the winter. And of course in the summer, there's boating and swimming. Explore the Fairfax County Park Authority web site to find conveniently located parks and extraordinary destinations. For more information, contact the Fairfax County Park Authority Public Information Office at 703-324-8662.

RIVER FARM: The headquarters of the American Horticultural Society, located between Old Town Alexandria and Mt. Vernon, overlooks the Potomac River and was one of George Washington's original properties. River Farm is comprised of 25 acres of gardens and grounds, which include perennial borders, annual beds, children's gardens, a meadow, a woodland, and picnic areas. The estate house was remodeled in the early 20th century and the property is described as a "gentleman's estate." Large porches offer panoramic view of the Potomac River and gardens.
The American Horticultural Society is the premier gardening society in the United States and offers programs and information to gardeners all over the country.

EMERSON GALLERY: Emerson Gallery is a place where visual artists can display their masterpieces. Different exhibitions takeplace during the year.
Ingleside Dr.
McLean, Va. 22101

MOUNT VERNON; Mount Vernon is a wonderful place to visit in any season. See farmland, George and Martha Washington's home and animals to entertain the children.
3200 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria
Special Notes:
$15 for adults, $7 for youth (6-11), and free for children five and younger. Mount Vernon is open every day of the year.