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Arlington, VA

Living in Arlington:

Located just 4.6 miles from Washington, D.C., Arlington, VA, combines the better of two worlds: city life and the suburbs. Its many neighborhoods include Rosslyn, Pentagon City, Shirlington and Lyon Village. Residents can choose to live in the middle of everything or opt to reside in a more rustic location. Arlington's most famous assets are the Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon, but the area also offers a fantastic blend of green space, business, culture, homes, dining and so much more.

Arlington Real Estate:

Homes for sale in Arlington are a big draw for people who commute to D.C., but many folks also work in the area. Rosslyn offers upscale condo living right across the Potomac from D.C., while neighborhoods such as Shirlington provide a mix of single-family homes, condos and apartments. East Falls Church is one Arlington, Virginia, neighborhood that provides more of a suburban feel, but it's still very convenient to the Metro and other public transportation options. Arlington real estate options are terrifically diverse, with homes available in many price ranges.

Things to Do:

Many people flock to the area for attractions that include the cemetery, Pentagon, various memorials, shopping and the outdoors. During the day, a trip to the Arlington National Cemetery is a must. Be sure to visit the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Popular memorials include the United States Air Force Memorial and the Pentagon Memorial, which has benches in honor of the victims who died on Flight 77 on Sept. 11, 2001. Pentagon tours are available, but must be booked at least 14 days in advance. If shopping is more your thing, the Pentagon City Mall offers a terrific mix of stores, although its focus skews upscale. Crystal City Shops offer an underground experience and a nice list of options for lunch and dinner. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, you'll want to visit Gravelly Point and Fort Ethan Allen.

Commuting through the Area:

When you buy a home in an Arlington, Virginia neighborhood, the efficient public transportation system makes it easy to quickly get into D.C. without a car. If you do drive, Interstate 395 crosses into Arlington neighborhoods, such as Shirlington and Pentagon City, while other main routes cut through Virginia Square and Ashton Heights. Waiting across the Potomac in D.C. is the Lincoln Memorial and the rest of the Mall, while George Mason University is in nearby Fairfax, Virginia. You can live in Arlington, VA, and enjoy the benefits of a somewhat slower pace of life while taking advantage of the city's convenient location near the nation's capital.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• There is no shortage of places to go and things to do if you’re a history buff in Arlington. Honor those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom at the Arlington National Cemetery, learn about the US Air Force at the US Air Force Memorial or book a tour of the Pentagon.
• Shopaholics know the best deals in Arlington are found at Pentagon City Mall, which features over 170 shops and restaurants.
• Outdoorsy types make their way to Gravelly Point, the perfect spot to get some fresh air and watch airplanes as they make their way to and from Reagan National Airport.

Ashburn, VA

Livinig in Ashburn:

Ashburn, Virginia is a place rich in local lore, scenic beauty and high culture. Wherever in town you happen to be, you are sure to find something of interest. Ashburn offers three large parks, the Ashburn, Bles and Trailside Parks, offering everything from casual strolling to the Ice House hockey rink. Spend an evening at the movies at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, where you can grab dinner and a movie at the same time. Join the golf club at Brambleton Golf Course; you can reserve tee times and then finish the day with a burger and beer at the Brambleton Ale House. Truly, Ashburn is a place with something to offer for everyone.

Ashburn Real Estate:

Now is a great time to look at homes for sale in Ashburn. The homes in this fast-growing community generally follow traditional styles of New England architecture, the most traditional being the Shingle and old-fashioned Colonial styles. The city features a great variety and selection of these homes and, as a family-oriented community, there is a great balance of two-story, single-family houses, apartments and condos. Seeking a more modern, lively environment? Consider One Loudoun, the "new downtown" of Ashburn. Everything you could want, from housing to shopping to entertainment is located in this growing community, located at Route 7 and Loudoun Country Parkway. With all of its many amenities and beautiful green spaces, Ashburn, VA, is a wonderful place to plant your roots.

Things to Do:

The Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park has a 45-mile paved trail perfect for biking, running or walking. It runs all the way from Purcellville to Shirlington, and adjacent to the trail is a bridle path for people that prefer to travel by horseback. Something else Ashburn is widely known for? Its delicious cuisine. From Italian food created with simple, time-honored recipes to delicious New England-style seafood, living in Ashburn means you'll never go without plenty of delectable dining experiences.

Commuting through the Area:

Ashburn, Virginia, is located between Leesburg and Sterling, not too far from the Potomac River. Traveling in and around the town is fairly simple and stress-free. Ashburn is located less than 10 miles from Leesburg, with easy highway access to the surrounding areas via routes 267, 7 and 28. Park and ride is an option, as are the commuter buses, which head to all the major surrounding cities including Washington, D.C. The Silver Line Metro is slated for extension into Loudoun County, offering three stops; two of those in Ashburn in 2019, giving commuters even more options.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Going for a stroll or a bike ride on the Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park—a 45-mile trail that runs through Ashburn.
• Enjoying the many dining options in the community, from home-style Italian to New England-style seafood.
• Shopping, dining and just hanging out at One Loudoun—considered the area’s downtown with its retail and entertainment attractions

Burke, VA

Living in Burke:

Burke, Virginia, is an ideal place to live when you want the comforts of suburbia along with the excitement of a nearby big city. In this case, that big city is none other than Washington, D.C., located only 20 miles from Burke. Nature lovers, rejoice: Burke also offers ample green space, with Pohick Creek Stream Valley Park and Burke Lake Park.

Burke Real Estate:

Burke, Virginia, which is in Fairfax County, offers some of the most affordable housing in the D.C. area. From townhouses, condos and single-family homes, real estate in Burke has it all. The area is primarily residential, with no real downtown core. Don't worry about not having places to shop, though; stores are never far off.

Burke, Virginia, even has a few planned communities: Burke Centre, for example. This Burke neighborhood is home to parts of several major roads as well as thousands of housing units, in addition to office and retail space. While it is true that residents in Burke may have to grapple with D.C.-area traffic if they commute, Virginia Railway Express (VRE) stations serve Burke, taking the stress out of the daily drive.

Things to Do:

One reason Burke, VA, shines is its outdoor options. Pohick Creek Stream Valley Park, which borders Springfield, VA, offers nature trails, backpacking, fishing, mountain biking and more. Burke Lake Park, right outside Burke, provides 218 acres of water fun for fishing and boating. On land, activities include volleyball, disc golf and a driving range. One of the lake's gems is the Burke Lake Loop Trail, which the American Hiking Society designated as one of the best 10 fitness trails in the United States.

When Burke residents want to visit art galleries, see movies and partake in other cultural events, the city of Fairfax is only 5 miles away. Likewise, Arlington is about 15 miles away. For bigger doses of culture, Washington, D.C., glimmers to the northeast. Living in Burke certainly allows people to enjoy the features that bigger cities offer without giving up the advantages of a less-stressful pace of life.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Access to the Virginia Railway Express makes Burke a commuter’s dream destination.
• Burke Lake Park offers over 200 acres of parkland to play, exercise and explore and features plenty of picnic pavilions plus volleyball pits, mini-golf, a driving range and a miniature train station for the kids.
• Burke offers a great selection of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and mountain biking and boating.

Fairfax, VA

Living in Fairfax:

Part of the sprawling Northern Virginia landscape, Fairfax is a growing city that retains much of its 19th-century, small town charm. Inhabited primarily by commuters working throughout the Washington, D.C. Metro Area, Fairfax

Fairfax Real Estate:

With an ideal location and growing population, prices in Fairfax trend toward the higher side of the real estate spectrum, even for older, smaller homes. Yet despite the high sticker prices, the price per square foot is still typically much lower than in Washington, D.C., making Fairfax, Virginia, a popular real estate market. In addition to single-family-home neighborhoods, Fairfax is also seeing a boom in condos connected to mixed use developments.

Things to Do:

When first arriving in Fairfax, Virginia, all appears modern and new, but a visit to the city's historic sites offers a glimpse into Fairfax's early history. A must-visit is Blenheim Estate, an antebellum farmhouse listed on the National Register of Historic Places and famous for the graffiti left by Union soldiers during the Civil War.

For an evening out, catch a performance by the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra, a professional regional orchestra that performs often in the town. George Mason University, Virginia's largest public institution, also offers music and cultural performances at the school's Center for the Arts concert hall or its 10,000-seat Eagle Bank Arena.

Fairfax, Virginia, also has several museums and galleries, whose rotating exhibitions make repeat visits worthwhile. The Fairfax Art League gallery is a members cooperative representing 100 local artists that hosts monthly exhibits and twice-annual special shows. The Fairfax Museum features exhibits on city history.

Commuting through the Area:

Northern Virginia is one of the fastest-growing areas of the country, and living in Fairfax offers easy access to the entire region, including other parts of Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. proper. Interstates 66 and 95, along with the 395 and 495 beltways, are the area's main highway arteries, but many commuters take public transport to and from work. The area is served by the Washington Metro Transit Authority. There are many Metrobus stops throughout the city, and Metrorail's Orange Line serves the area with the Vienna/Fairfax/GMU stop.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• For art lovers looking for new talent to admire, head to the Fairfax Art League Gallery which hosts the artwork of 100 local artists as well as hosts special events including monthly exhibits and special shows.
• There are plenty of historic sites to explore in and around Fairfax, like the Blenheim Estate said to be covered by graffiti left by Union soldiers.
• Theater buffs know that the George Mason University Center for the Arts is the perfect spot to catch a live concert, opera, ballet, theatrical play and other live performances.

Fairfax Station, VA

Living in Fairfax Station:

Fairfax Station, Virginia, a suburb of Washington D.C., is just 23 miles from the nation's capital but you'd never know it based on the scenery, with many lakes, parks and reservoirs dotting the landscape. In addition to majestic natural surroundings, the town played a small but important role in the American Civil War and even contributed to the birth of our country's most-famous humanitarian organization, the American Red Cross.

Fairfax Station Real Estate:

Fairfax Station real estate consists almost exclusively of single-family homes with multi-car garages on large lots. Outdoor activities are a big draw for the city, and homes for sale in Fairfax Station tend to be grouped around the town's many parks, lakes and other green spaces. Fairfax Station, Virginia, is not only a great place for urban dwellers who crave peace and quiet, but also nature lovers who love to escape the big city.

Things to Do:

Residents living in Fairfax Station will have ample opportunities to explore the wild and rugged scenery found around every corner. Fountainhead Regional Park and Burke Lake Park alone could keep you busy for the rest of your days. Between the golfing, camping, hiking and sightseeing, not to mention the countless aquatic activities, you'll never need to do the same thing twice.

Fairfax Station, Virginia, also made its imprint on American history. Built in 1858, St. Mary's Church served as a makeshift hospital for wounded Union and Confederate soldiers who were cared for by the founder of the American Red Cross, Clara Barton. In addition, the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum is just a few miles from St. Mary's; not only does the museum offer information about the influence of the railroad industry in the area, but it also discusses the community's role in the Civil War and Virginia's history.

There are several neighborhoods in the area, but Lakewood Estates is the Fairfax Station neighborhood that puts residents right in the middle of the outdoor action -- it's just a couple miles east or west from the town's two beautiful parks. Most of Fairfax Station, VA, is residential, with a lot of green space, but there are pockets of restaurants clustered together as well. Many of the local eateries are casual and cover a wide spectrum of international cuisines and American fare.

Commuting through the Area:

Northern Virginia is one of the fastest-growing areas of the country, and living in Fairfax offers easy access to the entire region, including other parts of Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. proper. Interstates 66 and 95, along with the 395 and 495 beltways, are the area's main highway arteries, but many commuters take public transport to and from work. The area is served by the Washington Metro Transit Authority. There are many Metrobus stops throughout the city, and Metrorail's Orange Line serves the area with the Vienna/Fairfax/GMU stop.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Fountainhead Regional Park and Burke Lake Park provide plenty of parkland and outdoor activities to keep even the most experienced outdoor fitness buff busy and in shape
• Steeped in rich history, Fairfax Station is the perfect place for history buffs to learn more about the important role this town played during the American Civil War as a place where wounded soldiers were cared for by Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross.

Falls Church, VA

Living in Falls Church:

With a footprint of just 2.2 square miles, it's no wonder Falls Church, Virginia's, nickname is "the Little City." Located off Route 66 about 7 miles from Washington, D.C., this city with the curious name may be small, but it's hugely appealing for those wishing to live near the nation's capital in a more peaceful, less-congested, small-town setting. About that name? Falls Church VA, gets it from The Falls Church, built in 1762, that still holds services; George Washington served as a vestryman there.

Falls Church Real Estate:

Anyone who considers living in Falls Church will find plenty of real estate, including single-family homes, condos, town homes and apartments. Falls Church's proximity to Washington, D.C. drives up home values here, and homes for sale in Falls Church range from modern new-construction models, historic Colonial homes in the heart of the city and spacious craftsmen homes in subdivisions. Many condo and apartment communities are convenient to Falls Church's two Metro stations.

Things to Do:

What could be more charming than beginning the weekend with a leisurely stroll through the local farmer’s market? The Falls Church farmers market is unique in that it's held year-round every Saturday, and residents head to the City Hall parking lot to peruse wares from 40 or so vendors and catch up with friends and neighbors. Cherry Park, adjacent to the farmer’s market, is full of rich history and great scenery; tourists visit to tour the park's Civil War-era farmhouse, but locals head to the park for the many special events, including a summer concert series.

Another popular spot is Eden Center, a.k.a. Little Saigon, where a bright red pagoda welcomes visitors to the region's largest concentration of Vietnamese restaurants and merchants. Whether enjoying authentic dim sum or shopping for specialty Asian ingredients, stepping into Eden Center will envelop you in the sights, sounds and smells of Vietnam. In addition to a diverse array of restaurants and bars, a favorite Falls Church, Virginia, nightspot is the circa-1936 State Theatre, a popular live music venue.

Commuting through the Area:

Falls Church, Virginia, is convenient to both Route 66 and the Beltway, making commuting by vehicle relatively easy. Those who prefer to sit back, relax and enjoy their commutes can catch the metro at either the West Falls Church or East Falls Church stations. You'll find limited parking available at the metro stations, but if you prefer to keep your car in the garage and live near a bus stop, you can take the bus to the metro station.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Unlike other neighborhoods, Falls Church farmer’s markets are available year-round, making the search for the freshest foods that much easier.
• For those lazy, don’t-feel-like-cooking kind of days, Eden Center offers the region’s largest concentration of Vietnamese restaurants and shops. The State Theatre, a popular live music venue, makes for a perfect after-dinner destination.

Herndon, VA

Living in Herndon:

Set among the rolling green hills of Fairfax County is the town of Herndon, Virginia. The community is part of the Dulles Technology Corridor, and it rests on the outskirts of Washington, D.C. Because of its proximity to the nation's capital and its small-town feel, homes for sale in Herndon are highly desirable, without the steep price tag of urban D.C. homes.

Herndon Real Estate:

Federal-style houses are located around town, along with multi-story townhouses. Houses in the Herndon neighborhood south of the Dulles Toll Road are newer and a bit pricier than you'll find in some other areas of Herndon. No matter in which part of town you reside, there are plenty of long-standing businesses, which shows the care and support that residents give to Herndon. Experience a live local performance at NextStop Theatre Company and then go enjoy cuisine ranging from Russian and Indian to Thai and American classics along Elden Street.

Since Herndon, Virginia, is considered part of the Dulles Technology Corridor, industry giants like AOL and Verizon are only 7 miles away from the town, and this means there are job opportunities in the area -- from tech support to IT developers to CEOs. Amazon, Boeing and the Air Line Pilots Association are some of the top area employers.

Things to Do:

Residents living in Herndon are proud of the town's heritage, which dates to the 1850s. In fact, a popular landmark is a little red caboose preserved from the heyday of the Washington and Old Dominion Railroad. The proximity to the nation's capital means plenty of historical sites to see. If you're trying to stay in town, though, the Wood trail goes right through Herndon; simply park over at the Herndon Depot. At Frying Pan Park in Herndon, VA, families can see the newest farm animal arrivals in spring and crop harvesting in the fall. Tours of the 1930s-style farmhouse are available year-round.

Commuting through the Area:

While Herndon is only about 22 miles from Washington, D.C., commutes can be long because of the heavy traffic congestion in the greater capital area. Most residents use public transportation so they can speed up their travel time and avoid parking. Commuters can take the Fairfax Connector bus or park over at the East Falls Church Metro station to take the rail. You could also head to the Silver Line in nearby Reston to reach Tysons Corner and points east. Business travelers or vacationers can head 6 miles west to Dulles International Airport to have easy access to the world around them.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Fitness enthusiasts can add another option to their exercise plan—the W&OD trail, a 45-mile long paved trail which cuts right through the center of Herndon. The trail also features an adjacent 32-mile gravel trail for horseback riding.
• Kids and adults alike enjoy the sights and sounds of Frying Pan Park. Kidwell Farm features kid-friendly activities like a petting zoo, wagon rides and barn tours while the older kids and adults learn more about the agricultural process. Beginner horseback lessons are also offered at the park.
• Cleverly concealed in a former warehouse, the NextStop Theatre is a professional black box theatre that showcases a wide array of local talent and Broadway headliners.

Lorton, VA

Living in Lorton:

Lorton, Virginia, offers residents a suburban lifestyle rich in the arts, culture and recreational activities. Nearby historic landmarks include George Washington's home, Mt. Vernon, only 10 miles to the east. Lorton's public schools, which are part of the Fairfax County school system, include the highly rated South County High School.

Lorton Real Estate:

There are numerous options when it comes to Lorton real estate. For example, you'll find single-family houses in Lorton Valley and townhomes in Gunston Commons. Other neighborhoods include Crosspointe, Laurel Highlands, Laurel Hill and Stone Manor. There are also apartment complexes in certain Lorton neighborhoods. Some feature pools, fitness equipment, community centers and other amenities.

Things to Do:

The Workhouse Arts Center features old jail cells converted to over five dozen artists' studios. Its W-3 Theater hosts hundreds of theatrical, comedic and other performances every year. In late April, many residents attend SpringFest Fairfax at the Center.

There are several large parks surrounding Lorton, Virginia, including Occoquan Regional Park, where you can launch your boat or rent a canoe on the Occoquan River. After a busy day out on the water, relax at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Pohick Bay Regional Park, on the Potomac, is another place where you can launch your boat or rent a canoe, kayak or paddle boat for a great summer escape. Lucky park visitors revel in the spectacle of an occasional bald eagle soaring above the treetops.

At Laurel Hill Golf Club, it is possible for avid golfers to enjoy their sport on land reclaimed from a discontinued correction facility. The course is a premier par-71, 7,010-yard layout that hosted the 2013 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship. Pohick Bay Golf Course is another championship layout that meanders through hilly, wooded terrain on the Mason Neck Peninsula.

Commuting through the Area:

Those living in Lorton, VA, enjoy a well-developed public transportation infrastructure. Buses, trains and expressways transport residents to nearby communities like Newington to the north, Woodbridge to the south and Mt. Vernon to the east. Interstate 95 runs north-south through the community, linking those living in Lorton to major cities along the East Coast. Lorton real estate puts you just 25 miles south of Washington D.C.

Trains operated by the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) conveniently run through Lorton, The train station is just east of I-95. Commuting by train is an option for many workers, including federal employees working in Alexandria, Arlington and the nation's capital. Fairfax Connector buses also serve those living in Lorton. Route 371 runs north to Newington and the Springfield Town Center.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• What once used to be old jail cells now houses the Workhouse Arts Center, a studio that supports over five dozen artists. Also, featured at the facility are exhibits, workshops, classes and camps.
• Relax at one of many parks, like the Occoquan Regional Park which features a paved cycling trail, soccer and baseball fields and a tributary that flows into the Potomac River.
• Golf enthusiasts practice their golf swing at the Laurel Hill Golf Club, a 7,010-yard golf course that once was the site of the D.C. Department of Corrections facility at Lorton.

McLean, VA

Living in McLean:

A drive through McLean, Virginia, takes you past the homes of a veritable who's who of Washington, D.C. McLean's spacious houses and rolling lawns offer a quiet alternative to the capital city's hustle and bustle, making it popular real estate for government movers and shakers.

The McLean neighborhood is well-known for its current and former notable residents, some of whom include Robert F. Kennedy's widow, Ethel Kennedy, some members of Congress, several Supreme Court Justices and former Secretary of State Colin Powell.

McLean Real Estate:

Due to its greatly sought-after amenities, including easy access to Washington, D.C., and government buildings in the surrounding area, McLean, Virginia, real estate is valued significantly more than similar properties in other parts of the state. Many of the large, single-family homes for sale are priced well into the seven figures, and houses are primarily four or five bedroom properties. Most residents own their homes, whether they choose a detached house or a condo in one of the area's complexes.

Things to Do:

While the city is famous for its high-end shopping at Tyson's Galleria and Tyson's Corner Center, residents are more likely to visit local attractions--for example, buying fresh produce at the McLean Farmer's Market or taking in a performance at the intimate Robert Ames Alden Theatre.

There are many choices for fine dining within the McLean, Virginia, city limits, and casual fare is easily accessible in neighboring cities and towns. Cuisine ranges from traditional American selections to an array of international options, such as Amoo's House of Kabob, which features a highly-regarded Persian-fusion menu.

Commuting through the Area:

Now that McLean, VA, is connected by a Metro stop, residents can get into D.C. more quickly than ever for business or pleasure, making this city an excellent choice to get the best of both worlds.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Shopaholics all know that the best place to find the hottest fashions is at Tyson’s Corner Center. For higher end fashions and accessories, there’s Tyson’s Galleria.
• Although the surrounding area is busy with development, there’s plenty of green spaces in town for the kids to run around and play including nine parks perfect for hiking, playing and picnicking.
• The McLean Farmer’s Market is a great place to stock up on fresh foods and produce and catch up with the neighbors.

Reston, VA

Living in Reston:

Reston is a vibrant community in the heart of Northern Virginia that was founded in 1964. A planned community, Reston is known worldwide for its forward-thinking concepts of what it means to be able to work and play where you live and to be connected to those around you. The community includes a variety of neighborhoods from bustling urban settings to wooded tranquil escapes.

Reston Real Estate:

Reston is unique in that it includes many different styles of housing. In Reston Town Center, you will find apartments, condos and townhomes. Moving farther out from Reston’s core you’ll find all these types of homes, as well as single-family homes in cozy, close-knit neighborhoods as well as in quiet secluded ones. Because of Reston’s guiding principles put into place during its development, the community is a great place for residents of all ages with housing and amenities for each stage in life.

Things to Do:

Reston’s founder, Robert E. Simon (1914-2015), believed in the importance of creating a community that included places for residents to live, work, do business, play, attend school and places of worship, all while conserving open space. This is what you’ll find in Reston’s village center neighborhoods, which include Lake Anne, Hunters Woods, South Lakes, North Point, Tall Oaks and the downtown core, Reston Town Center. Consistently ranked as a top community, Reston is a census-designated place and municipal services are provided by both Fairfax County and the nonprofit Reston Association.

Within Reston’s neighborhoods, residents enjoy everything from fast food options to fast-casual restaurants to formal dining. Businesses are clustered in the village centers, while residences are spread around the centers. Since open space was important to Reston’s guiding principles, its residents can enjoy its many parks and miles of trails. Reston has more than 1,300 acres of maintained open space, including four lakes, three ponds, 20 miles of stream, 800 acres of woodlands and two golf courses. Meanwhile, in Reston Town Center residents flock to the multitude of restaurants and entertainment options, destination retail and its pavilion, which serves as a venue for large community events, concerts and ice skating in the winter.

Commuting through the Area:

People often choose Reston for its proximity to Washington, D.C., its unique features, all it must offer at its village centers and town center, access to Fairfax County Public Schools and more. Reston provides a place for many to live, whether they’re looking for a lively city lifestyle, a great place for their families to go to school or work or a place that’s quiet and peaceful. Additionally, Reston has a strong sense of community with many opportunities for people to get involved. Situated along the Dulles Toll Road, Reston is about 20 miles west of Washington, D.C., and just six miles east of Dulles International Airport.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Outdoor enthusiasts are often attracted to Reston’s wealth of woodlands, trails and parks.
• Shopping and dining are never far away when you live in Reston with its numerous village centers.
• Reston Town Center’s ice-skating rink is one of the community’s many winter-time attractions.

Springfield, VA

Living in Springfield:

Springfield, Virginia, is a pleasant community of 30,000 residents that is within easy driving distance to Washington, D.C. As such, the town is popular with young families who are making the move from D.C. to the suburbs. Springfield itself offers everything you'd need from small town life with the added virtue of being close enough to a metropolis that entertainment and cosmopolitan life can become part of your routine. The town offers plenty of restaurants and stores, most notably at the Springfield Town Center.

Springfield Real Estate:

Springfield's family-friendly feel, large number of schools and suburban location make it an attractive option for young families moving from D.C. and Alexandria. The town's stellar school system is complemented by its family-friendly attractions, such as a Flight Trampoline Park, the Springfield Town Center -- which includes a cinema -- and a large area of safe, clean parks suitable for children. In all, Springfield offers much of what makes an excellent family community.

Owing to its location and range of amenities, homes in Springfield, Virginia, are usually more expensive than elsewhere in the state, though prices become more affordable as you move away from the town center. The slightly higher prices do come with benefits, however, with most homes having seven or more rooms. Houses here date from before the World War II right up until present day, with the more modern homes attracting the highest prices.

Things to Do:

Springfield is much more than just a suburban outpost of the capital city. There's plenty to keep homeowners occupied here, be it shopping, dining, exploring the surrounding areas or diving deep into the town's storied history. It was founded in 1847 and built around the Daingerfield Station, part of the Orange and Alexandria Railroad that was of great strategic importance during the Civil War. Today, the Daingerfield Station is still in use as the Backlick Road Station, which serves the Virginia Railway Express line. Take a stroll around Springfield and you'll find plenty of signposts commemorating its role in the Civil War, and its connection to the Civilian Conservation Corps, a Depression-era initiative introduced by President Roosevelt.

The Springfield Golf and Country Club is a private golf course that offers unbeatable golf as well as tennis, swimming and a large clubhouse that hosts many social events. There's also Lake Accotink Park, a large area of 493 acres that features streams, woodlands and a lake where you can hike, boat or have a picnic. During the summer months, you'll also find mini-golf and a carousel.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Hiking and boating at the nearly 500-acre Lake Accotink Park, which features streams, woodlands and a lake.
• Learning about the community’s history, including its role in the Civil War and its connection to the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps.
• It’s easy access throughout Northern Virginia via the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) line, which stops in Springfield at the Backlick Road Station.

Sterling, VA

Sterling Real Estate:

Sterling, Virginia, consists of several small communities, grouped together as a census-designated place (CDP). Most residential development of Sterling followed the construction of Dulles International Airport in 1959, as agricultural lands were subdivided to build houses in a flourishing economy. Many homes for sale from that era are in the Arts and Crafts style, located on single-family residential lots along tree-lined streets. Recent growth in Loudoun County has brought more diversity to Sterling real estate, with a range of affordable housing options in each neighborhood, including condominiums, townhouses and apartments.

Several elementary, middle and high schools are established in Sterling, and opportunities for higher education are nearby, with the Loudoun campus for Northern Virginia Community College on Route 7. George Washington University has a campus in Ashburn, just a few miles outside of Sterling.

The future looks bright for Sterling commuters, with an expanding rapid transit system promising additional travel convenience to that of the extensive road network. The Silver Line of the Washington Metro recently connected nearby Reston to Washington, D.C. and will be extended to Ashburn in 2019.

Things to Do:

the Claude Moore Park and Recreation Sportsplex fitness, recreational, educational, social and cultural activities are programmed throughout the year for individuals, organized groups and families. The complex contains an indoor recreation center that's outfitted with both a competition and leisure pool, gymnasium, rock-climbing wall and running track, as well as space for special events. Fields for ball games and hiking trails lure residents outdoors to the grounds of the sportsplex.

Golfers can choose from a large selection of 18-hole golf courses, including several award-winning facilities. Algonkian Regional Park, on the shore of the Potomac River, has a challenging golf course, boat launch, water park, hiking trails -- a section of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail passes through the park -- and pavilions available for picnics.

Sterling residents indulge sophisticated tastes at an array of restaurants where authentic international cuisine, such as Italian, Asian and Israeli foods are on the menu; classic and upscale American fare is also available at locally-owned establishments. Sterling also offers a spectrum of shopping experiences, from the friendly neighborhood atmosphere of the Cascades Marketplace to Dulles Town Center, home to 185 stores and boasting "one of the most luxurious movie theaters in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia."

Neighborhood Favorites:

• For a smorgasbord of things to see and do, the Claude Moore Park and Recreation Sportsplex is the place to go. The facility features a variety of educational, recreational, social and cultural activities and programs perfect for the whole family.
• Golf lovers can practice their golf swing at the Algonkian Regional Park. The park also features hiking trails, a water park and boat launch.
• Attention shoppers: name brand stores and great deals are just around the corner at Dulles Town Center. The shopping mall also boasts a great selection of restaurants and a luxurious movie theater.

Vienna, VA

Living in Vienna:

The town of Vienna, Virginia, listed third on the list of the 100 best places to live in the country, is located approximately 5.5 miles southwest of the Potomac River. It is 12 miles west of Washington, D.C., and just 2 miles northeast of Fairfax City. This beautiful town has 16 neighborhoods from which to choose, all contained within 4.4 square miles of land.

Vienna Real Estate:

Vienna, VA is a popular place to call home. With all the homes for sale in Vienna, including large, single-family homes, condos and duplexes, you won't have any trouble finding the perfect place to plant your roots. You also have many options if you're looking to rent. From luxury apartments to townhouses, Vienna real estate listings have it all.

Things to Do:

Vienna, Virginia, has ideal weather for outdoor attractions and events, like the annual Walk on the Hill. This spring garden tour takes place in the Windover Heights historic district on the last Sunday afternoon in April. The Windover Heights neighborhood is also home to the Freeman House, which has served as a Post Office, a Civil War hospital, a railroad station, a fire department and a residence. The house is now used as a museum and an old-fashioned general store.

In addition to high-ranking public schools, assets of Vienna include a bustling downtown area with various small businesses, a Metro station with large parking garages and a section of the W & OD Trail that cuts right through the center of town. Nearby you'll find Tysons Corner, a popular commercial, residential and retail district, and Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts.

Meadowlark Gardens Regional Park is a hot spot for families with small children. Spend an afternoon touring along winding walkways through beautifully landscaped gardens and small lakes filled with ducks and geese, get sprayed by a fountain, watch the wildlife from a wooden gazebo overlooking Lake Caroline and use the stepping stones to cross over shallow parts. You aren't allowed to take food into the park; however, you'll find an air-conditioned snack room where you can grab a snack or cool drink.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• A high ranking public school system, bustling downtown area and its key location helps make Vienna a great place to settle down and raise a family.
• When the weather is nice, Meadowlark Gardens Regional Park is the place to spend the day with the kids. Beautifully landscaped gardens await along with winding paths and small lakes.
• Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts is the perfect venue for a fun night out without having to drive into the District. The venue hosts a variety of performances including concerts and movie screenings.

Washington, DC

Living in Washington DC:

Washington, D.C., the nation's hub of all three branches of government, is filled with bustling tourists, popular attractions, iconic landmarks and, of course, the president of the United States. So, it's no surprise that people of many different backgrounds call this city home. Further, the nation's capital is not just into the serious business of politics, since things can be quite laid back with Washington, D.C.,'s numerous parks, cafés, beer halls and sports and entertainment venues.

Washington DC Real Estate:

There's a treasure trove of affordable row houses clustered in urban areas and neighborhoods like Bloomingdale and Capitol Hill. For those who are looking for more recently built homes, the city is also seeing new developments across its neighborhoods. Detached, single-family houses are also in the mix for those who don't mind spending serious money on Washington, D.C., real estate. Whatever your housing preference and budget is, you'll find there's a property ready to welcome you home in the District.

Things to Do:

Everyday living in Washington, D.C., situated along the banks of the Potomac River, can involve a flurry of activities. After all, there's never a shortage of things to do. For a good view of the cityscape, you'd only have to hop on the D.C. Circulator, which takes you on a 13-mile journey around the city and offers a glimpse of popular destinations like The White House, the National Mall and even Georgetown. This is also the most affordable way to get a feel of the city's busy streets lined with swank hotels, boutique shops and even artisan street vendors. Night owls can head over to Adams Morgan, U Street or Georgetown to experience Washington's robust nightlife scene.

If you're digging for some outdoor activities, you'll discover the National Arboretum, Smithsonian's National Zoo, Rock Creek Park and the National Mall are the places to be. Outdoor and indoor fun are always available. While Washington, D.C., is the choice destination of 16 million tourists every year, it's easy to see why locals are proud to call this home: beyond the looming landmarks, venerable hotels and rich history, this is a city rife with almost tangible energy.

Commuting through the Area

There are lots of ways to get around the Washington, D.C. area other than driving alone: Metrobus and Metrorail, local bus systems, carpooling, bicycling, and walking, to name a few. Save money, help the environment, and live a healthier lifestyle by taking advantage of your transportation options. CommuterPage.com links you to tools, resources, and information to make it easy.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Visit the National Mall after dark to take in the beauty of the monuments and memorials lit up in the evening.
• Become a member of the Smithsonian National Zoo where special events, such as ZooFiesta, Boo at the Zoo, ZooLights, lectures and much more, are held throughout the year.
• Keep an eye on the weather in the winter months – when it snows, residents gather for impromptu snowball fights in the DuPont Circle neighborhood or, if approved by the U.S. National Park Service, go sledding on the lawn of the Capitol Building.

Woodbridge, VA

Living in Woodbridge:

In 2011, the U.S. Census Bureau made a drastic change to Woodbridge, Virginia's, boundaries; one that reduced its size by 80 percent and its population from approximately 39,000 residents down to 4,000. The larger portion was renamed Marumsco, though the houses in this area still bear Woodbridge addresses. Although now much smaller, Woodbridge, VA, still has a lot to offer residents. This Prince William County community is located just about 20 miles south of Washington, D.C., and only 9 miles from Fort Belvoir, Fairfax County's largest employer. It's also approximately 16 miles from the Quantico Marine Corps Base.

Woodbridge Real Estate:

You'll find several communities that are in Woodbridge itself or that bear a Woodbridge address, including Belmont at the Bay. This waterfront neighborhood, which is located at the confluence of the Occoquan and Potomac rivers, offers a mix of condos, single-family homes and townhomes. You can also find homes for sale in Woodbridge in the Lake Ridge neighborhood.

Overall, Woodbridge real estate is a healthy mix of small, older homes and newer planned communities filled with large single-family houses and townhomes. Because housing prices in Woodbridge are lower than they are in suburbs closer to D.C., this community is popular with first-time buyers as well as homeowners looking to get a little more bang for their housing buck.

Things to Do:

When you're living in Woodbridge, you won't have to go far for a little retail therapy. The community is home to Virginia's largest outlet mall, which also contains an 18-screen movie theater. The streets surrounding the mall are lined with retailers, big box stores and a large selection of chain restaurants..

However, Woodbridge, Virginia, is far from a concrete jungle. This town has several beautiful parks, including the stunning Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which offers visitors more than 3 miles of hiking trails. Woodbridge is also home to Leesylvania State Park, a local treasure situated on the Potomac River. At Leesylvania, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, hiking and boating.

Woodbridge is also a great place to live for baseball lovers, as the home field for the Potomac Nationals minor league team is in a Woodbridge neighborhood.

Commuting through the Area

Commuters living in Woodbridge, Virginia, enjoy easy access to Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1. You can also find commuter lots for bus service to D.C. in this suburb. Additionally, Woodbridge also has two stations where you can catch either an Amtrak or Virginia Railway Express train.

Neighborhood Favorites:

• Savvy shoppers know the best place to find a great deal in Woodbridge is at Potomac Mills Mall. In addition to the name brand stores available inside, there are plenty of other big box stores located around the mall too.
• Outdoorsy types admire the fact that there are two great parks to choose from—Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Leesylvania State Park.
• Baseball fans put their gloves to good use while catching a game at the home field of the Potomac Nationals minor league baseball team