Reston Travel Guide

Virginia's first planned community, Reston, was established in the 1960s and founded upon the principle of Live, work, play, and get involved- a motto that it stands by to this day. Reston is home to beautiful scenery and an abundance of wildlife, and it was named the 7th Best Place to Live in America by CNN Money Magazine.

Things to Do in Reston

Things to do in Reston include shopping at Reston Town Center- Reston's most popular outdoor shopping mall which offers unique shops, over a dozen restaurants, and a seasonal skating rink. Guests can explore the Reston Museum and the Walker Nature Center Sanctuary that features trails, picnic areas, outdoor displays, demonstrations, and a variety of educational programs. Other fun things to do in Reston include having a drink at Lake Anne Brewery, browsing the shelves at Reston Regional Library, learning to golf, catching a live performance at Center Stage, and spending the day at Lake Fairfax Park which offers hiking trails, boating, fishing, a carousel, and campgrounds.

Best Places to Stay in Reston

Reston is a great place to book a vacation home. Rentals include large houses, small executive and bachelor suites, and cottages located on the outskirts of the city. Reston is close to Washington DC, so tons of travelers looking for luxury make their way there. Those who opt to stay in Reston can look forward to vacation rentals with full kitchens and modern amenities as well as enough room to host both family and friends.

Best Time to Visit Reston

The best time to visit Reston is generally during the summer. Winters in Virginia can be unpleasant and colder than most folks are used to.

Best Events in Reston

Some events that take place in Reston include the Pet Fiesta and the Winter Walk of Lights. The Pet Fiesta attracts pet owners, businesses, and animal welfare groups from within the Reston area and offers them a day if animal-themed fun. The fiesta includes face painting, caricature art, demonstrations, activitiesm -- and of course, animals. The Winter Walk of Lights takes place in nearby Vienna and consists of a half-mile stretch of holiday lights. The event includes perennial favorites like the Fountain of Lights, Lakeside Lights, and the beloved Holiday Nature Walk, among a variety of new light shows that appear every year. Participants can relax at the end of the night with a cup of hot chocolate and marshmallows from the S'more Snack Shop.

Things to Do for Families in Reston

The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole is a popular Reston water park that features flumes, water slides, showers, spray jets, and a lazy river. The waterpark is family friendly and open seasonally, starting on Memorial Day weekend. For families with Marvel and video game fans, the ArtInsights Gallery of Film and Art is the perfect place to spend a family-friendly afternoon. The gallery features unique movie artwork from the creators of Marvel, Disney, Star Wars, and many others. Many families also enjoy watching movies at Bow Tie Cinemas.