29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Reston, VA
Are you seeking exciting things to do while visiting Reston, Virginia, to make your trip even more memorable? There’s nowhere else to look! You’re in the correct place since we’ll go over to list the top 29 Fun Things To Do In Reston, Virginia, to ensure that your trip is one to remember.
Located in the center of Fairfax County, Virginia, Reston is a classic American neighborhood renowned for its picturesque scenery, vibrant cultural scene, and an array of events and attractions that appeal to both locals and tourists.
Reston offers something for everyone, from its quaint downtown to the numerous parks and trails that meander through the neighborhood. See the Spectrum, the Reston National Golf Course, the Reston Town Center, and other distinctive sights.
Are you seeking exciting things to do while visiting Reston, Virginia, to make your trip even more memorable? There’s nowhere else to look! You’re in the correct place since we’ll go over the top 29 enjoyable activities in Reston, Virginia, to ensure that your trip is one to remember.
Located in the center of Fairfax County, Virginia, Reston is a classic American neighborhood renowned for its picturesque scenery, vibrant cultural scene, and an array of events and attractions that appeal to both locals and tourists.
Reston offers something for everyone, from its quaint downtown to the numerous parks and trails that meander through the neighborhood. See the Spectrum, the Reston National Golf Course, the Reston Town Center, and other distinctive sights.
The Top 29 Exciting Activities In Reston, Virginia (2024)
Fun Things To Do In Reston
1. Reston Museum
Visit the Reston Museum to learn more about the rich history and legacy of the community as you start your tour across Reston.
The Reston Museum was founded in 1997 with the goals of conserving history, educating the present, and shaping the future of Reston. Some of its public activities and programs include the Reston Home Tour, the Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta, and Founder’s Day.
This cultural jewel tells the narrative of this carefully designed neighborhood through a multitude of antiques and fascinating displays that take visitors on a fascinating trip through Reston’s past.
Address: 1639 Washington Plaza N, 20190, Reston, VA, USA
2. Lake Anne Plaza
Start your outdoor journey at Reston’s first Village Center, the charming Lake Anne Plaza. Situated in a Historic Overlay District, the Lake Anne Plaza is a thriving community with a diverse population that enjoys good dining, locally owned businesses, and community amenities.
Hiking the boardwalk or renting paddleboards or kayaks is one of the nicest things to do in Lake Anne Plaza.
Lake Anne Plaza, with its superb dining establishments, distinctive shops, and seasonal farmers and craft market, epitomizes the finest of living locally.
Address: 1609 Washington Plaza N., 20190 Reston, VA USA
3. Lake Fairfax Park
A great family activity in Reston, Virginia, these days is to take a trip to Lake Fairfax Park, a hidden gem ideal for a fun-filled day of leisure.
With its 476 acres, Lake Fairfax Park has plenty of family-friendly things to offer. The park offers a variety of amenities such as hiking and biking trails, a carousel, picnic spots, athletic fields, skate park, a pump track, and more. It also has an 18-acre lake called Lake Fairfax.
To completely immerse oneself in nature, the park also offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, paddle boating, and other water sports.
1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, Virginia 20190, USA is the address.
4. Walker Nature Center
Enjoying the peace and quiet of the Walker Nature Center is one of the exciting things to do in Reston, Virginia, for those who love the outdoors.
The 1,300-acre Walker Nature Center offers a range of buildings, activities, and educational and interpretive resources. In addition, it provides a calm haven from the everyday grind.
A demonstration meadow, native plant beds, a fire ring, a mile-long circular route, a pond, picnic tables, a pavilion, interpretive signage, a library, and 72 acres of forests are all part of the nature center.
Experience the natural beauty of Reston on a wonderful day by exploring meandering walking routes, attending educational programs that delve into the local flora and fauna, and taking advantage of animal observation opportunities.
11450 Glade Dr., Reston, VA 20191, USA is the address.
5. Great Falls Park
One of the greatest things to do in the vicinity of Reston, Virginia, is to explore and hike Great Falls Park, which is only a short drive away.
Great Falls Park spans 800 acres and provides a mesmerizing vista of the Potomac River’s mighty force as it tumbles over spectacular rock formations.
The park offers a variety of enjoyable activities, such as hiking trails with different degrees of difficulty, horseback riding, and fishing, which let guests take in the breathtaking views and picturesque overlooks. The Patowmack Canal, one of the earliest canals in the United States, is located in this park.
Address: McLean, VA 22102, United States; 9200 Old Dominion Dr.
6. Children’s Science Center Lab
A great activity for families in Reston, Virginia, is to take a trip to the Children’s Science Center Lab. Located at Fair Oaks Mall, this interactive museum provides families and kids with educational activities.
Children may learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) ideas at this museum through entertaining, interactive hands-on displays, events, and programs.
The Lab is one of the least expensive attractions in Reston, Virginia, as it is only open to visitors on weekends and only costs $2 per ticket.
Address: Fairfax, VA 22033, USA; 11948 Fair Oaks Mall
7. Reston Community Center
One of the many entertaining things to do in Reston is to explore the Reston Community Center. The center is a hub for culture that offers a variety of programs and events.
For people of all ages, interests, and skill levels, the Reston Community Center offers a variety of programs, classes, and activities.
It has a 260-seat performance theater called CenterStage where a range of plays, concerts, and dance acts take place.
Swimming and other water sports are available in the Terry L. Smith Aquatic facility, which is located within the facility. Additionally, the Reston Community Center hosts art shows that highlight the abilities of regional singers and painters.
2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston, VA 20191, USA is the address.
8. Reston Town Center
With the Mercury Fountain serving as the center of attention, the Reston Town Center opened in 1990 and provides a variety of retail choices between the Library and Presidents Avenues.
The 460-acre Reston Town Center is home to 35 eateries, more than 50 shops, and a multipurpose theater that serves a wide range of tastes.
The Town Center offers fantastic dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Among the enjoyable activities in Reston include taking a leisurely stroll around the center and admiring the scenery, dining at some of the exquisite eateries, watching a movie at one of the two theaters, and, if you’re with children, letting them participate in the center’s kid-friendly programs.
Address: 11900 Market Street, Reston, Virginia 20190, USA
9. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located in Chantilly, Virginia. It’s more than simply a museum; it’s an experience.
The museum, which occupies 760,000 square feet, is one of the main sights close to Reston, Virginia. In two spacious hangars, the museum showcases more than 3,000 aircraft and space relics, such as a Concorde, a Blackbird SR-71, and the Space Shuttle Discovery.
Additionally, there is an observation overlook at the museum from where guests can observe the ongoing preservation and restoration efforts.
Take a guided tour of this museum to learn about space science, World War II aviation, sport aviation, and other topics as part of the exciting things to do near Reston, Virginia.
Address: 14390 Air & Space Museum Pkwy, 20151, USA, Chantilly, Virginia
Are you looking into other Reston-area attractions? What could be better than exploring some of the exciting activities available in Chantilly, Vienna, and Herndon, Virginia?
10. Reston National Golf Course
Playing golf at the Reston National Golf Course is one of the top things to do this weekend in Reston, Virginia. Ed Ault designed the immaculate 18-hole golf course in 1970. It’s a terrific spot to play, practice, and learn the game.
The golf course presents a fair challenge for players of all skill levels. The Reston National Golf Course is a 166-acre layout that measures 6,800 yards from the back tees to a par of 71.
The course also has a covered pavilion, a grill room, and a driving range with practice facilities. Players of all skill levels can expect a nice round of golf on the lush fairways and well-designed greens. Come explore our club for leisure and entertainment with your loved ones.
The address is 11875 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, Virginia 20191, USA.
11. Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion
The Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion is a great place to visit in the winter in Reston, Virginia. This seasonal skating rink, which is open from early November to mid-March, is great for wintertime family outings.
In addition, the center features a skate shop that serves all ages and has over 500 pairs of skates. On a glittering ice rink, the Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion provides a fantastic chance for family fun and treasured memories.
1818 Discovery St., Reston, VA 20190, USA is the address.
12. Reston Farmers Market
This weekend, check out the Reston Farmers Market, one of the many interesting things to do in Reston, Virginia. One of the greatest places to acquire fresh local vegetables is at the market, which is held every Saturday from late April to December.
Numerous freshly harvested fruits, veggies, and cut flowers are available at the Lake Anne Plaza farmers market. In addition, they sell a variety of meats, baked foods, cider, milk, dairy products, fresh eggs, and artisanal goods.
The Reston Farmers Market is the best place to experience the seasonal bounty of Virginia, interact with friendly sellers, and learn about the thriving local food scene.
Address: 1609 Washington Plaza N., 20190 Reston, VA USA
13. Tephra Institute Of Contemporary Art
The Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art is one of the top places for art lovers to visit in Reston. Numerous art exhibitions and seminars are available at this art center.
The Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art was founded in 1974 as the Greater Reston Arts Center with the mission of fostering creativity and innovation within the local community. Along with multiple galleries showcasing a range of art genres, the art center offers numerous classes in a number of media.
Anyone who wants to learn more about contemporary art should visit the Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art.
Address: Reston, VA 20190, United States; 12001 Market St., Suite 103
14. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Taking a stroll through the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is one of the most romantic activities to do for couples in Reston, Virginia.
The 95-acre Meadowlark Botanical Gardens features walking trails, lakes, pavilions, native plant collections, a visitor center, and a restored 18th-century cottage. The widely anticipated Winter Walk of Lights, a Christmas light display, brings the garden to life over the holiday season.
Tourists enjoy beautiful areas where families can play, adults can unwind, and everyone can discover the natural beauty of Virginia.
The address is 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna, Virginia 22182, USA.
15. Van Gogh Bridge
The Van Gogh Bridge, a pedestrian bridge connecting the shops and apartments at Lake Anne’s Washington Plaza to the Waterview Cluster townhouses, is one of the most picturesque locations in Reston.
The footbridge’s design, which was created by William Roehl, was influenced by the well-known paintings of a drawbridge in Arles, France.
Van Gogh Bridge is particularly charming in the spring, when the neighboring cherry trees offer a backdrop of gorgeous blooms, even though locals enjoy it all year round.
Add this stunning bridge to your list of things to do in Reston, Virginia, that are completely free. Don’t forget to bring your camera so you can record the experience.
11404 Washington Plaza W is the address in Reston, 20190, USA.
16. Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole
At one of Fairfax County’s favorite water parks, Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, visitors may enjoy a fun summertime activity while beating the heat.
There are lots of slides, flumes, sprays, showers, floatables, and an interactive water playground for kids and adults to enjoy at the water park. It also has the 725-foot-long Rattlesnake River, a leisurely river where you may float and unwind while being gently nudged by the stream.
Pete’s Peak, a rugged mountain riddled with barred-up mining holes and runners, is the waterpark’s main feature. Numerous thrill-seeking slides that range in size and intensity tumble down the mountain.
1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, VA 20190, USA is the address.
17. Reston Art Gallery & Studios
Art lovers and collectors should make time to visit the Reston Art Gallery & Studios.
This gallery, which was founded in 1986 by Pat Macintye, features a variety of regional artwork. Nine gifted artists reside in the art gallery as well, where they create, display, and market their works.
The artworks in the Gallery are created in a range of genres and media, such as printmaking, photography, collage, oil, pastel, watercolor, acrylic, sculpture, and mobiles.
Discovering the Reston Art Gallery and Studios offers a special chance to interact with the accomplished artists who are responsible for the works, which promotes a greater understanding of the creative process.
Address: Reston, VA 20190, 11400 Washington Plaza W # B, USA
18. Escape Room Herndon
Are you looking for enjoyable activities to do in Reston with your loved ones? After that, drive a little distance from Reston to Escape Room Herndon.
Escape Room Herndon provides an exceptional and cutting-edge escape room experience. In order to escape within the allotted time, players must hunt for hidden clues, solve riddles, locate secret passageways, avoid lasers, open the safe, and cooperate.
It’s a great experience because there are six options and each room is themed differently. There are other escape rooms available, such as the Graverobber’s Dilemma, Maritime Mutiny, Magician’s Workshop, and 8-Bit Escape.
Address: Herndon, Virginia 20170, USA; 406 Elden St.
19. The Spectrum At Reston Town Center
A trip to the Spectrum at Reston Town Center for a shopping spree would be incomplete during your stay in Reston.
The Spectrum at Reston Center is a 270,000-square-foot retail complex that offers more than just shopping—it’s an experience. The anchors of the shopping mall include Whole Foods Market, Barnes & Noble, The Container Store, and Harris Teeter.
It provides a distinctive fusion of shops, services, and dining establishments to meet the demands of both wealthy locals and tourists. Explore the Spectrum and sate your appetite at some of the exquisite restaurants within the shopping center on your trip to Reston.
Address: 11846 Spectrum Center, 20190 Reston, VA USA
20. Artinsights Gallery Of Film And Contemporary Art
One of the greatest places to take the family in Reston is the ArtInsights Gallery of Film and Contemporary Art, which is situated in Reston Town Center.
The gallery specializes in cinematic and illustrative art, as well as animation and film art, with a focus on original production artwork and limited edition pieces.
The gallery continues to display official production and concept artwork by particular artists, in addition to cinema and animation-related shows. Take in the exhibitions and the beautiful film stills when you visit the ArtInsights Gallery of Film and Contemporary Art.
Address: 11921 Freedom Dr., 20190 Reston, VA, USA
21. Go Ape Zipline And Adventure Park
Seeking adventure at the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park is one of the most distinctive outdoor things to do in the vicinity of Reston. This adventure park is conveniently located in Reston and provides a fun outdoor experience for the whole family.
Fantastic thrills such as Treetop Journey, Treetop Adventure, Frights at Height, Haunted Trails, and Forest Escape can be found at the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park. Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park offers eight zip lines and more than 100 different obstacles, so there is something for everyone.
You have a choice of activities to keep yourself occupied for anywhere from 15 minutes to three hours while exploring this adventure park.
Address: United States, Springfield, Virginia, 22153-7550 Reservation Dr.
22. NOVA Wild
One of the enjoyable family activities in Reston is going to the NOVA Wild. The only zoological park in Northern Virginia, NOVA Wild covers 30 acres in size.
The zoo is committed to animal welfare, education, and conservation and is home to over 200 animals, many of which are endangered species.
A self-drive safari including zebras, bison, llamas, and other animals is available to visitors, as is a bird aviary, a walking tour featuring cheetahs, capybaras, kangaroos, sloths, and other animals.
Address: Vienna, Virginia 22182, United States; 1228 Hunter Mill Road
23. Reston Regional Library
Situated in the center of Reston, the Reston Regional Library is an essential component of the community that provides comfort to those who seek information.
The collection of books, newspapers, and periodicals at the library is vast. In addition, the regional library offers interesting programming for all age groups, storytimes, and family-friendly activities, making it a fun place for everyone to visit.
A second section contains books for kids, ranging from board books for young readers to chapter books for readers who are in school.
11925 Bowman Towne Dr., Reston, VA 20190, USA is the address.
24. Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta
The Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta is one of the noteworthy occasions to be in Reston. Every year, the Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta is a race on Lake Anne where life-size cardboard boats made out of cardboard and duct tape are launched.
All-age teams will row out to a predetermined buoy and back to the docks in timed heats of the competition. Costumes and boat designs that are imaginative are welcomed. This entertaining and eccentric show captures the spirit of creativity and community in Reston.
Address: 1609 Washington Plaza N., 20190 Reston, VA USA
25. Lake Audubon Pool – Reston Association
One of the enjoyable things to do in Reston, Virginia, is to spend time in the Lake Audubon Pool, which is situated on the lake’s edge.
The facility feels like a resort because of the 25-meter pool, which has views of the lake and boat ramp. In addition, it’s a fantastic place to start a boat, go fishing, or go hiking around the lake.
Those who enjoy swimming and tennis will find this pool to have a welcoming atmosphere. Your exercise regimen gains an additional element of tranquility from the serene lakeside location.
2070 Twin Branches Road, Reston, Virginia 20190, USA is the address.
26. SkateQuest
Visit SkateQuest, a twin-sheet indoor ice skating facility in Reston, Virginia, for an enjoyable indoor family activity.
SkateQuest is open all year round and offers NHL and Olympic rinks for recreational skaters, figure skaters, and hockey players. Interested people can also practice skating at the ice skating rink.
SkateQuest features a pro shop and café outside the rink where you can get your skating supplies and refuel before hitting the ice.
1800 Michael Faraday Court, Reston, Virginia 20190, USA is the address.
27. Launch Trampoline Park Herndon
Launch Trampoline Park Herndon is a nearby amusement park that’s a great family activity in Reston. There are many of entertaining activities for people of all ages at this family-friendly attraction.
The 25,000 square foot Launch Trampoline Park Herndon has a mini go-kart course, arcade, dodgeball, basketball, tumble courses, trampoline, ninja course, and Krave restaurants where you can have a family meal.
Apart from providing enjoyable activities, Launch Trampoline Park is an excellent venue for birthday celebrations, family get-togethers, team-building exercises, and other occasions.
The address is 13348 Franklin Farm Road, 20171, USA, Herndon, Virginia
28. IFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun
One of the fun things to do around Reston, VA, with family is to experience the exhilarating thrill of iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun, which is just 17 minutes away.
The 14-foot (4.3-meter) recirculating tunnel at iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun, which opened in 2016, has a chamber height of 14.6 feet and a top speed of 171 mph (275 km/h). The skydiver’s free fall was enhanced by the vertical tunnel.
Even inexperienced students can safely enjoy the experience with qualified instructors. Virtual reality alternatives can further enhance your flying experience by taking you to actual skydiving spots across the globe. It’s also a favorite among young thrill-seekers because of special training for children ages 4 to 16.
Address: United States, 20315 Commonwealth Center Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147
29. Bowlero Sterling
Do you need some enjoyable activities to do tonight near Reston? Go to Bowlero Sterling after that. Both residents and tourists can enjoy interactive family entertainment at this entertainment center.
There are 48 bowling lanes with slick lounge chairs and enormous video walls in the entertainment center. In addition, a sizable arcade area featuring the newest and hippest games for players of all ages is available. Pool tables, laser tag arenas, and billiard tables round out the variety of entertainment options.
The entertainment center offers a full range of family-friendly entertainment options, including an on-site restaurant and bar providing delectable meals and refreshing drinks.
Address: 46940 Woodson Drive, 20164, United States, Sterling, Virginia