10 Fun Things To Do Near West Falls Church, Virginia
West Falls Church, Virginia, in Fairfax County, is one of those places that quietly surprises you. On the map, it looks like a small suburban area just outside Washington, D.C. But once you start exploring, you realize there’s a lot to see and do within a short drive or Metro ride.
Whether you live nearby or you’re staying in the area while visiting D.C., here are
10 great things to do near West Falls Church that mix local flavor with big-city fun.
1. Stroll the W&OD Trail Right From West Falls Church
One of the best things about West Falls Church is how close it is to the
Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail, a 45-mile multi-use trail that runs through Northern Virginia.
You can hop on the trail at nearby access points in
Falls Church City and be surrounded by trees, parks, and friendly locals out for a walk or bike ride.
- Perfect for: walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading
- Mostly flat and paved, family-friendly
- Great for a quick 30‑minute walk or a full afternoon ride
If you’re visiting from out of town and feeling jet-lagged, a gentle walk on the W&OD is a simple way to reset and enjoy some fresh air. I once started “just going for a short walk” here and ended up doing almost 5 miles because the trail was so peaceful.
2. Explore Downtown Falls Church & The State Theatre
Just a few minutes from West Falls Church, you’ll find the small but lively
downtown Falls Church area. It’s walkable, cozy, and packed with local restaurants, coffee shops, and a historic movie-theater-turned-concert-venue called
The State Theatre.
- Catch a live band or comedy show at The State Theatre
- Grab tacos, pho, or pizza — the food options are surprisingly diverse
- Take an evening stroll around the neighborhood
If you like live music in an intimate setting, this spot is a gem. It feels a bit like stepping back in time, but with a modern playlist.
3. Shop, Snack, and People-Watch at Mosaic District
About a 10–15 minute drive from West Falls Church is
Mosaic District, one of Fairfax County’s trendiest mixed‑use developments. It’s like a mini downtown area built from scratch, with stylish shops and a ton of places to eat.
Here you can:
- See a movie at the Angelika Film Center
- Browse local and national shops
- Relax in the central green space (they often host outdoor events)
- Try everything from ramen to ice cream to gourmet coffee
If you’re traveling with a group and everyone wants something different to eat, Mosaic is a lifesaver. You can all grab your own thing and meet back in the plaza.
4. Take the Metro Into Washington, D.C. From West Falls Church Station
One of the biggest advantages of staying or living in West Falls Church is the easy access to
Washington, D.C. via the
West Falls Church Metro Station on the Orange Line.
Instead of dealing with city parking, you can:
- Hop on the Metro and be near the National Mall in about 20–30 minutes
- Visit the Smithsonian museums, monuments, and memorials
- Explore downtown D.C., Georgetown, or Capitol Hill
Think of West Falls Church as your quieter “home base” with big-city adventures just a train ride away. It’s especially appealing for families or anyone who likes to escape the noise at the end of the day.
5. Visit Tysons Corner Center & Tysons Galleria
If you enjoy shopping, you’ll love how close West Falls Church is to
Tysons Corner, often called the “Rodeo Drive of the East Coast” thanks to its luxury shops and huge malls.
Within about a 10–15 minute drive (or a short Metro ride) you’ll find:
- Tysons Corner Center – a massive mall with popular brands, a movie theater, and plenty of dining
- Tysons Galleria – more upscale, with luxury boutiques and high‑end restaurants
- Seasonal events, pop‑ups, and family‑friendly activities
On a rainy or very hot day, Tysons is an easy place to spend hours. Even if you’re not a big shopper, walking the mall, grabbing a coffee, and people‑watching can be strangely relaxing.
6. Discover Local History at Cherry Hill Farmhouse
Right in nearby Falls Church,
Cherry Hill Farmhouse offers a small but meaningful peek into local history. This 19th‑century farmhouse has been preserved as a museum and gives you a sense of what life was like in Northern Virginia before all the highways and shopping centers.
You can:
- Take a guided tour (check their schedule in advance)
- See period furnishings and artifacts
- Enjoy the surrounding park for a simple picnic
If you’re the type who likes to understand the story behind a place, this little stop adds context to your visit to West Falls Church and Fairfax County.
7. Relax at Local Parks: Jefferson District Park & Idylwood Park
When you need some green space near West Falls Church, there are several parks within a short drive. Two local favorites are:
- Jefferson District Park – Offers mini‑golf, tennis courts, and open space. It’s a fun, laid‑back stop for families or casual dates.
- Idylwood Park – A wooded park with walking paths, sports fields, and a more “tucked away” feel.
On a sunny weekend afternoon, you’ll see locals playing soccer, kids running around, and people just sitting on benches enjoying the day. It’s a simple way to feel the neighborhood rhythm.
8. Eat Your Way Around the World on Route 7 & Arlington Boulevard
One thing West Falls Church does extremely well is
food. Because it’s part of a diverse area of Fairfax County, you can find almost any cuisine you’re craving within a short drive along Route 7 (Leesburg Pike) and Arlington Boulevard.
Some ideas:
- Try authentic Vietnamese pho and banh mi
- Sample Middle Eastern kabobs and fresh-baked bread
- Grab Latin American, Korean, Indian, or Ethiopian dishes
It’s very easy to plan your own little “food tour” near West Falls Church. Pick 2 or 3 spots, order something small at each, and make an evening of it. Many locals will tell you their favorite thing to do is just explore new restaurants in the neighborhood.
9. Spend the Day in Old Town Alexandria
A bit farther out, but still very doable from West Falls Church (about a 25–35 minute drive depending on traffic) is
Old Town Alexandria, one of the most charming historic districts in the D.C. area.
Here’s what makes it worth the trip:
- Cobblestone streets and 18th‑century architecture
- Waterfront views along the Potomac River
- Great restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries
- Attractions like the Torpedo Factory Art Center
If you like walkable, historic areas with plenty of places to duck into for a drink or snack, Old Town is a must‑visit day trip from West Falls Church.
10. Experience Great Falls Park’s Dramatic Views
When you’re ready for a more nature‑focused outing, head about 25 minutes from West Falls Church to
Great Falls Park on the Virginia side of the Potomac River.
At Great Falls Park, you can:
- See powerful waterfalls and rapids from several viewing platforms
- Hike short or moderate trails with scenic overlooks
- Learn about the old canal system and local history
The falls are especially impressive after heavy rain, when the river is running high and fast. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes, and bring water and snacks. It’s one of the most memorable outdoor spots near Fairfax County and easy to reach from West Falls Church.
Why West Falls Church Makes a Great Home Base
West Falls Church itself is mostly residential, but that’s part of its charm. You get:
- A quiet place to stay or live
- Fast access to Washington, D.C. via Metro
- Short drives to parks, malls, historic sites, and great restaurants
It’s a smart choice if you want the best of both worlds: suburban calm and urban excitement.
What Will You Do First Near West Falls Church?
Now that you’ve seen just how many
things there are to do near West Falls Church, VA, what’s calling your name?
Are you more excited about:
- A walk or bike ride on the W&OD Trail?
- A foodie tour along Route 7?
- A big day of sightseeing in Washington, D.C.?
I’d love to hear your ideas and experiences.
Have you spent time in West Falls Church or Fairfax County?
Share your favorite spots, hidden gems, or questions in the comments so other travelers can benefit too.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to Northern Virginia or the D.C. area. The more we share real, on-the-ground tips, the easier it is for everyone to explore like a local.
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