Springfield, Virginia (Fairfax County): 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Springfield, Virginia (Fairfax County Guide)

If you’re looking for fun things to do in and around Springfield, Virginia, you’re in a great spot. This Fairfax County suburb sits right off major highways and close to Washington, D.C., so you can enjoy both quiet neighborhoods and big-city adventures. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, visiting family, or just moved to the area, here are 10 easy, fun, and family-friendly things to do near Springfield, VA.

1. Shop, Dine, and People-Watch at Springfield Town Center

The heart of Springfield is the modern Springfield Town Center. If you only have a few hours in town, start here. You’ll find:
  • Big-name stores like Target and Macy’s
  • Plenty of restaurants, from quick bites to sit-down spots
  • A movie theater for date nights or rainy days
On weekends, the mall often hosts events, pop-up shops, or seasonal activities. It’s also a great place to walk indoors when it’s too hot, cold, or rainy outside. Travel tip: Parking is free and plentiful, which makes it an easy base if you’re exploring nearby spots in Springfield, Virginia.

2. Escape the City at Lake Accotink Park

Just a short drive from central Springfield, Lake Accotink Park feels like a mini getaway in the woods. At this popular Fairfax County park, you can:
  • Walk or bike the 3.9-mile loop around the lake
  • Rent pedal boats or canoes in season
  • Try the mini golf course with kids
  • Enjoy picnic areas and playgrounds
On a sunny day, it’s the perfect place to slow down, unplug, and enjoy some fresh air. The trail is mostly flat, so it’s great for a relaxed walk or an easy family bike ride.

3. Explore American History at George Washington’s Mount Vernon

One of the best things about staying in Springfield, VA is how close you are to George Washington’s Mount Vernon, about a 20–30 minute drive away. At this famous estate, you can:
  • Tour George Washington’s mansion overlooking the Potomac River
  • Walk through the historic gardens and farm
  • Visit the museum and education center for an easy-to-follow history lesson
  • Watch short films and live demonstrations
Even if you’re not a huge history buff, the property itself is beautiful and peaceful. I remember standing on the back porch, looking over the river, and thinking how surprisingly quiet it felt for being so close to D.C. Travel tip: Weekdays are usually less crowded, and buying tickets online can save time.

4. Hike, Bike, or Birdwatch at Huntley Meadows Park

If you like nature, don’t miss Huntley Meadows Park, one of Fairfax County’s hidden gems, only a short drive from Springfield. This park is known for:
  • Long wooden boardwalks across freshwater wetlands
  • Great birdwatching and wildlife viewing
  • Easy, mostly flat walking trails
You might spot herons, ducks, turtles, or even beavers if you’re lucky. It’s a peaceful spot for a slow morning walk with a coffee in hand. Family tip: Kids usually love the boardwalks and lookout towers—they feel a bit like an adventure without being too challenging.

5. Take a Day Trip into Washington, D.C.

One huge advantage of staying in Springfield, Virginia is how quickly you can get to downtown Washington, D.C. From the Franconia–Springfield Metro Station, you can:
  • Ride the Blue or Yellow Line straight into D.C.
  • Visit the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and monuments
  • Avoid traffic and parking headaches
You can easily spend a whole day exploring:
  • The Lincoln Memorial
  • The Washington Monument
  • The National Air and Space Museum
  • The National Museum of American History
Budget tip: Many D.C. museums are free, so Springfield makes a smart, more affordable base compared to staying in the city itself.

6. Walk the Trails at Hidden Pond Nature Center

If you’re looking for something low-key and close by, check out Hidden Pond Nature Center right in the Springfield area. Here you’ll find:
  • Short, easy forest trails (great for little kids)
  • A small pond with turtles and frogs
  • A nature center with hands-on exhibits and live animals
This is one of those places locals love but visitors often miss. It’s quiet, relaxing, and perfect if you only have an hour or two and don’t want to drive far.

7. Eat Your Way Around Springfield’s Global Food Scene

One of the most underrated things to do in Springfield, VA is simply…eat. Because Fairfax County is so diverse, you’ll find:
  • Vietnamese pho and banh mi
  • Korean BBQ and hot pot
  • Middle Eastern grills and bakeries
  • Latin American restaurants and bakeries
Many of these spots are tucked into small strip malls along major roads like Backlick Road and Old Keene Mill Road. Don’t let the simple exteriors fool you—some of the best food is inside those unassuming storefronts. Idea: Make your own “food tour” night. Pick one place for appetizers, another for the main course, and a third for dessert.

8. Spend a Relaxing Afternoon at Pohick Bay Regional Park

If you don’t mind a short drive from Springfield, head to Pohick Bay Regional Park on the Potomac River. Here you can:
  • Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards in season
  • Camp overnight at tent or RV sites
  • Let kids run around on playgrounds and open fields
  • Enjoy riverside views and wooded trails
It’s a fun spot in the summer if you want a little water adventure without driving hours to the beach.

9. Catch a Game or Event at George Mason University

About 20–25 minutes from Springfield, you’ll find George Mason University in Fairfax. It’s more than just a college campus—it’s also a local hub for entertainment. Depending on the time of year, you can:
  • Watch college basketball and other sports
  • See concerts or performances at the EagleBank Arena
  • Attend lectures, cultural festivals, or community events
If you like being around that energetic “college town” vibe, a visit here makes a fun evening out, especially paired with dinner in nearby Fairfax.

10. Drive (or Bike) the Scenic George Washington Memorial Parkway

If you enjoy long drives with great views, the George Washington Memorial Parkway is a beautiful option not far from Springfield. This scenic route runs along the Potomac River and connects several key spots:
  • Mount Vernon
  • Old Town Alexandria
  • Arlington
  • Washington, D.C.
Along the way, you’ll find overlooks, picnic areas, and trail access. You can drive it, or if you’re a cyclist, parts of the route connect to popular bike paths. Idea: Spend the morning at Mount Vernon, cruise up the parkway, then stop in Old Town Alexandria for lunch and waterfront views.

Why Springfield, Virginia Makes a Smart Base

When people plan trips to the Washington, D.C. area, they often think only about staying in the city itself. But Springfield, VA in Fairfax County offers a nice balance:
  • Easy access to highways like I‑95, I‑395, and I‑495
  • Quick Metro access to downtown D.C.
  • More space, more parking, and often better hotel rates
  • Parks, trails, and family-friendly activities right nearby
So whether you’re here for history, nature, food, or shopping, you’ll find plenty of things to do near Springfield, Virginia without spending your whole trip in traffic.

What Will You Do First Near Springfield, VA?

Are you more excited about:
  • Walking the boardwalks at Huntley Meadows?
  • Exploring George Washington’s Mount Vernon?
  • Or maybe just relaxing by the water at Lake Accotink?
I’d love to hear about your plans and experiences. Have you visited Springfield, Virginia or Fairfax County before? Share your favorite places or hidden gems in the comments. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a trip to the D.C. area. The more we swap stories and tips, the easier it gets for everyone to enjoy this underrated corner of Northern Virginia.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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