Herndon Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Herndon, Virginia. Learn about the local culture, customs, and safety tips. Plan your trip with our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Herndon

Herndon is a charming town in northern Virginia, located in Fairfax County. It is filled with historical landmarks, natural wonders, and a welcoming community that values its culture and traditions. Visitors can experience the town’s unique blend of modern amenities and rich history, making it an excellent destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

In this comprehensive guide to Herndon, we will share all the best things to do, see, and eat in this beautiful town, as well as offer tips on local customs, safety, transportation, and nearby destinations to explore. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Herndon

Herndon is a town filled with a variety of attractions, both man-made and natural. Here are some of the must-see places to visit during your trip to Herndon:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Herndon Depot Museum - a restored train station built in 1857 that houses exhibits on the town’s history and transportation industry
  • Elden Street Players Industrial Strength Theater - a local theater that showcases classic plays, musicals, and contemporary productions
  • Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center - a museum with interactive exhibits and over 300 aircraft and space artifacts

Natural Attractions of Herndon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Frying Pan Farm Park - a 135-acre park that features a farm and working blacksmith shop, as well as farm animals and seasonal events
  • Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park - a park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a creek for fishing and kayaking
  • Lake Fairfax Park - a picturesque park with a 20-acre lake, campsites, and plenty of outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and fishing

Hiking/Biking Routes of Herndon

Herndon is a town that has plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in and around Herndon:

  • Washington and Old Dominion Trail - a 45-mile paved trail that runs from Shirlington to Purcellville, passing through Herndon
  • Herndon Centennial Trail - a 4.7-mile trail that runs through the heart of Herndon
  • Difficult Run Trail - a 6.8-mile trail that offers a challenging hike through beautiful scenery and picturesque streams

Best Things to Do in Herndon: Activities and Tours

Herndon offers plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Herndon:

  • Visit the Friday Night Live! Concert Series - a weekly summer concert series featuring live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities
  • Take a Segway Tour of Herndon - a guided tour that takes visitors on a fun and unique way to see the town’s landmarks and attractions
  • Take a Wine Tour - Herndon is situated near several award-winning wineries that offer tastings and tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Herndon

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Herndon:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Herndon Depot Museum and Historical Society of Herndon
Day 2 Visit Frying Pan Farm Park and enjoy a picnic lunch
Day 3 Take a Segway Tour of the town and visit the local shops and restaurants
Day 4 Spend the day at Lake Fairfax Park and enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and fishing
Day 5 Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center and experience the history of aviation
Day 6 Take a wine tour and visit local wineries
Day 7 Visit Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park for a hike and picnic lunch

Food and Drink Scene of Herndon

Herndon is a town filled with restaurants and cafes that offer delicious and unique cuisine influenced by local agriculture and global flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Herndon:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chesapeake Bay Crab Cakes - a local seafood delicacy made with fresh crab meat
  • Korean Fried Chicken - a crispy and juicy Korean dish that is becoming increasingly popular in the town
  • Virginia Ham and Biscuits - a traditional Southern dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch

Local Beverages

  • Virginia Wine - Herndon is located near several award-winning wineries, making wine tasting a must-do activity
  • Craft Beer - Herndon is home to several craft breweries, including Lake Anne Brew House and Aslin Beer Company

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

Herndon has several options for accommodations to fit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Herndon:

  • The Westin Washington Dulles Airport - a pet-friendly hotel with modern amenities and an on-site restaurant
  • Hyatt Place Herndon/Dulles Airport-East - a comfortable hotel with spacious rooms and a complimentary breakfast buffet
  • Courtyard by Marriott Dulles Airport Herndon - a stylish hotel with a fitness center and an indoor pool.

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

Herndon is home to local artisans and boutiques offering unique gifts and locally-made goods. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home with you:

  • Artisan Jewelry - Herndon has several artisan jewelers that offer unique, handcrafted jewelry
  • Locally-made Wine and Beer - Herndon is located near several wineries and breweries that offer locally-made wine and beer
  • Handcrafted Soaps and Candles - Herndon has several boutiques that offer unique and locally-made soaps and candles.

Local Culture and Customs of Herndon

Herndon is a town proud of its diversity, rich history, and local traditions. Visitors should be aware of some of the local cultures and customs in the town:

  • Herndon farmers market is held every Thursday and promotes local agriculture and agricultural tourism.
  • Herndon’s local festivals include the Herndon Festival, the Labor Day Festival, and the Friday Night Live! Concert Series.

Best Time to Visit Herndon

The best time to visit Herndon is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy the town’s festive spirit during the summer months, with plenty of outdoor concerts, festivals, and events to attend.

Do’s and Don’ts of Herndon

Visitors to Herndon should be aware of some important do’s and don’ts to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Take advantage of the town’s outdoor activities and natural wonders
  • Visit the local wineries and breweries

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places
  • Disturb the local wildlife or natural habitats
  • Ignore basic safety precautions while enjoying the town’s outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Visitors to Herndon should be familiar with some basic safety and health tips:

Safety in Herndon

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking in unfamiliar areas at night
  • Keep your valuables secure at all times
  • Use caution when driving, especially in inclement weather

Health in Herndon

  • Wear sunscreen and a hat during outdoor activities to protect yourself from the sun
  • Stay hydrated, especially during hot weather
  • Be aware of ticks, especially during the warmer months

Getting to Herndon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Herndon is located near several major airports and other transportation options. Here are some ways to get to Herndon:

Airports Near Herndon

  • Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) - located just 6 miles from Herndon
  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) - located about 25 miles from Herndon

Bus Stations Near Herndon

  • Herndon-Monroe Park & Ride Lot - a transit hub with bus service to major destinations in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.
  • Fairfax Connector Bus - a local bus service with routes in and around Herndon

Other Options

  • Train - Herndon is located near several train stations, including Union Station in Washington, D.C.
  • Car rental - rental cars are available from several major companies at the airports

How to Get Around in Herndon

Visitors to Herndon have several options for getting around the town:

  • Walking - many of Herndon’s attractions and shops are located within walking distance of each other
  • Car - visitors can rent cars from several major companies or use their own vehicles to drive around the town
  • Public transportation - Herndon has a local bus service, Fairfax Connector, that offers routes to major destinations in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.

Where to Go Next from Herndon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Herndon is located near several destinations and excursions that visitors should consider exploring:

  • Washington, D.C. - located just 25 miles from Herndon, Washington, D.C. is home to famous landmarks, museums, and cultural sites.
  • Shenandoah National Park - a beautiful park that offers hiking, camping, and stunning vistas, it is located just a few hours west of Herndon.
  • Virginia Beach- The shore village of Virginia Beach offers miles of sandy beaches and a oceanfront boardwalk

Conclusion

Herndon is a delightful town that has plenty to offer visitors looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious food. With its unique blend of modern amenities and rich history, Herndon is a must-visit destination for those exploring Northern Virginia. Be sure to use this comprehensive guide to make the most out of your trip to Herndon!