For people who love DC but don’t love city living, Fairfax Station is an ideal location. Mostly residential, the area offers a laid-back pace, houses with yards and easy access to the city. Suburban life doesn’t mean boring, however. There are plenty of things to do in Fairfax, from exploring the many parks, to taking a tour of the town’s history or trying out the many different restaurants.

Fairfax Station on a Map

Located in northeastern Virginia, Fairfax Station is bordered on the west by Clifton, Burke to the east, Lake Ridge to the south and the rest of Fairfax County to the north.

Fairfax Station History

Fairfax Station is the site of the Civil War skirmish known as Brimstone Hill. It was also the location of a medical evacuation site during the war where Clara Barton worked before founding the American Red Cross. Until the advent of the modern highway system, Fairfax Station was the center of community life that played a key role in the development of the regional economy. Today, Fairfax Station is a prospering suburb just outside of the DC area.

Homes for Sale in Fairfax Station

Most of the homes for sale in Fairfax Station is single-family homes. While it is easy to find houses within a lower price range, many options are still on the more expensive side. Even so, living here is comparatively cheaper than most DC neighborhoods.

Enjoying the Great Outdoors in Fairfax Station

Within Fairfax’s boundaries, there are over 220 acres of parks and 28 miles of trails. Among the many parks residents can choose from, there is the Ashby Pond Conservatory, offering walking trails and picnic tables with a nice view of the natural pond. On Burrow Ave, Cobbdale Park is perfect for families with young children, with lots of open green space and playgrounds. One of the larger options is Van Dyck Park, right off Old Lee Highway. Over twenty acres, Van Dyck has picnic sites, basketball, volleyballs courts and several playgrounds. Adjacent to the parking lot is a skate park. With bike trails and a winding, scenic creek, Van Dyck Park is the perfect place for making memories.

Another local staple is the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, documenting the local history of the area. The museum is housed in the original depot that was scheduled for demolition in 1973, but saved by a group of residents who came together to restore it. The museum hosts events such as photography workshops, model train displays and “hands on” days.

Dining Out in Fairfax Station

Located right outside of George Mason University, Brion’s Grille is a popular spot for students and locals alike. Offering traditional American cuisine, Brion’s is known for its happy hour specials and deals like five-dollar burger nights.

Dolce Vida Italian Kitchen, located on Fairfax Boulevard, offers a huge wine selection at reasonable prices. Wine specials and complimentary valet parking are just a few of this restaurant’s many perks. Loyal customers go just for the pizza cones, which are exactly what they sound like: all of the cheese, vegetables and toppings you could ever want in a cone-shaped crust, easy for eating and a fun alternative to regular pizza.

Transportation Around Fairfax Station

Because of its suburban layout, most residents own a car for getting around. From Fairfax Station, it is easy to get to a number of different places by simply taking Virginia State Route 123 or the Fairfax County Parkway. In addition, the Virginia Railway Express serves the area. Many residents work in DC, choosing to live in a cheaper area that is within easy access of the city.

Making Your Home in the City

There is something for everyone here in Fairfax Station. With its proximity to George Mason University, there are many cool hangouts for younger people as well as things to do for people of all ages. It provides easy, comfortable suburban living all within a short drive from the nation’s capital.