Chantilly Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Chantilly with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring top tourist attractions, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, local customs, and more!


Introduction to Chantilly

Located in Northern Virginia, Chantilly is a beautiful town in Fairfax County that is known for its rich history, scenic views, and top-quality restaurants. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike. Chantilly is just a 15-minute drive from Washington Dulles International Airport, and it offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

List of Places to Visit in Chantilly

Chantilly offers a wide range of attractions to explore. Here are some of the top places to visit in Chantilly:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in aerospace technology. It features a huge collection of aircraft and spacecraft, and visitors can also see restoration projects in progress.

  • Sully Historic Site: Sully is a beautiful plantation house that was built in 1794. It was the home of Richard Bland Lee, a founding member of Congress, and it is now open to the public for tours.

  • Ellanor C. Lawrence Park: This park features an 18th-century farmstead and a nature center that showcases the natural history of the area. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnicking areas, and wildlife viewing here.

Natural Attractions of Chantilly: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cub Run Stream Valley Trail: This well-maintained trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and jogging. The trail runs through a beautiful natural area that is home to many species of wildlife.

  • Bull Run Regional Park: Bull Run Regional Park is a great place to spend a day with the family. It features a water park, mini-golf, disc golf, and scenic picnic areas.

  • Frying Pan Park: Frying Pan Park is a 135-acre park that is home to a working farm and country store. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, a playground, and a carousel ride.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chantilly

Chantilly offers many great hiking and biking routes for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top routes to check out:

  • Cub Run Trail: This 4.1-mile trail runs through a beautiful natural area that is home to many species of wildlife.

  • Bull Run Occoquan Trail: This 18.8-mile trail runs through Bull Run Regional Park and features a mix of natural terrain and scenic views.

  • Fairfax County Parkway Trail: This 45-mile trail runs through several parks and natural areas in Fairfax County, including Chantilly.

Best Things to Do in Chantilly: Activities and Tours

Chantilly offers many great activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Chantilly:

  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside

  • Visit a local winery or brewery for a tasting

  • Explore the historic town of Occoquan

Week-Long Itinerary for Chantilly

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Chantilly:

  • Day 1: Tour the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
  • Day 2: Hike the Cub Run Trail
  • Day 3: Visit the Sully Historic Site
  • Day 4: Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside
  • Day 5: Explore the historic town of Occoquan
  • Day 6: Tour the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park
  • Day 7: Relax at Bull Run Regional Park

Food and Drink Scene of Chantilly

Chantilly is home to many great restaurants and bars that offer a wide range of cuisine and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab cakes: Chantilly is known for its delicious crab cakes, which are a must-try for seafood lovers.

  • Steak: Many local restaurants serve up top-quality steak that is cooked to perfection.

  • Italian food: There are many Italian restaurants in the area that offer tasty pasta dishes and specialty pizzas.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Chantilly is home to several wineries that offer tastings and tours.

  • Craft beer: There are many local breweries in the area that serve up delicious, hand-crafted beers.

Where to Stay in Chantilly: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chantilly offers many great accommodations for visitors. Here are some of the top options:

  • Westfields Marriott: This upscale hotel offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a fitness center.

  • Extended Stay America: This affordable hotel offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, making it a great option for travelers on a budget.

  • Hilton Washington Dulles Airport: This hotel is located just a short drive from the airport and offers comfortable rooms and a pool.

What to Buy in Chantilly: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Chantilly is known for its local food and beverage products, as well as its crafts. Here are some of the top items to bring home:

  • Local wine or beer

  • Crab seasoning

  • Handmade crafts

Local Culture and Customs of Chantilly

Chantilly is home to a diverse community that values family, nature, and history. Visitors can experience this culture through local festivals, events, and celebrations.

Best Time to Visit Chantilly

The best time to visit Chantilly is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and many of the local attractions and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chantilly

Do:

  • Do explore the local history and culture

  • Do try the local food and drinks

  • Do take advantage of outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the local natural areas

  • Don’t ignore local customs and traditions

  • Don’t be disrespectful to locals or their property

Safety and Health

Safety in Chantilly

Chantilly is generally a safe place for visitors. However, it is important to take general safety precautions when traveling, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Chantilly

Chantilly has modern medical facilities and is home to several hospitals and clinics.

Getting to Chantilly: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chantilly is located just a short drive from Washington Dulles International Airport, making it easily accessible by air. Visitors can also reach the town by car or bus.

Airports Near Chantilly

  • Washington Dulles International Airport

Bus Stations Near Chantilly

  • Chantilly Regional Library Park and Ride

Other Options

  • Rental car

  • Metro (nearest station is Vienna)

How to Get Around in Chantilly

The best way to get around in Chantilly is by car or bike.

Where to Go Next from Chantilly: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Chantilly is located near many great destinations in Virginia and Washington D.C. Here are some of the top places to visit nearby:

  • Mount Vernon Estate

  • Shenandoah National Park

  • Washington D.C.

Conclusion

Chantilly is a beautiful and historic town that offers a wide range of activities, attractions, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there’s something here for everyone. Plan your trip to Chantilly today and experience all that this charming town has to offer.

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center of the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center of the National Air and Space Museum Sully Historic Site Sully Historic Site