McLean Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more with our comprehensive travel guide to McLean, Virginia.


Introduction to McLean

Located in Fairfax County, Northern Virginia, McLean is a suburb of Washington D.C. that offers a mix of suburban and natural environments. It is home to many prestigious schools, wealthy residents, and a variety of attractions, making it a popular tourist destination.

List of Places to Visit in McLean

McLean boasts a range of places to visit, from historical locations to natural attractions, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Claude Moore Colonial Farm
  • The Alden Theatre
  • The CIA Museum
  • The Magarity Library
  • The Great Falls & Potomac Heritage Trail
  • Fort Marcy Park

Natural Attractions of McLean: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Scott’s Run Nature Preserve
  • Great Falls Park
  • Clemyjontri Park
  • Chaselton Park
  • Langley Fork Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of McLean

There are several hiking and biking routes within McLean that offer an up-close experience of its natural beauty. These include:

  • Potomac Heritage Trail
  • Great Falls Park
  • Scott’s Run Loop Trail
  • Difficult Run Trail

Best Things to Do in McLean: Activities and Tours

  • Attend a concert at The Alden Theatre
  • Take a spooky tour of the Landon House
  • Visit The Claude Moore Colonial Farm and experience what life was like in 1771
  • Try out some water activities at Great Falls Park
  • Go for a walk at Scott’s Run Nature Preserve

Week-Long Itinerary for McLean

If you have a week to spend in McLean, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Great Falls Park
Day 2 Go on a tour of the Landon House
Day 3 Have a picnic at Scott’s Run Nature Preserve
Day 4 Visit The Claude Moore Colonial Farm
Day 5 Attend a concert at The Alden Theatre
Day 6 Explore the Potomac Heritage Trail
Day 7 Enjoy shopping at Tysons Corner Center

Food and Drink Scene of McLean

McLean features a range of cuisines that are sure to please your palate and quench your thirst.

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Capital Grille’s bone-in ribeye
  • The Bombay Club’s butter chicken
  • La Sandia’s guacamole
  • Coastal Flats’ jumbo lump crab cakes

Local Beverages

  • Old Dominion Wine
  • Port City Brewing Company’s Optimal Wit
  • Catoctin Creek Distillery’s Roundstone Rye

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

McLean has accommodation options that provide a comfortable and convenient stay, including:

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner
  • The DoubleTree by Hilton McLean Tysons
  • The Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center

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

  • Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center T-shirt
  • Virginia wine and beer
  • American Maple Syrup

Local Culture and Customs of McLean

Residents in McLean are generally polite and follow strict protocols of conduct. It is important to be aware of these customs and follow them accordingly.

Best Time to Visit McLean

The best time to visit McLean is during Fall, between September and November, when the leaves turn into a range of beautiful colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of McLean

Do:

  • Tip 15-20% when dining out
  • Say “please” and “thank you”
  • Be punctual

Don’t:

  • Swear or use inappropriate language
  • Chew gum in public
  • Litter

Safety and Health

Safety in McLean

McLean is generally safe, but it’s important to take precautions by keeping your belongings in sight, not leaving your valuables out in the open, and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in McLean

The United States is known for providing high-quality healthcare. McLean also has a range of healthcare centers where you can seek medical attention.

Getting to McLean: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near McLean

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
  • Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Bus Stations Near McLean

  • McLean Metro Station
  • Tysons Corner Station

Other Options

  • Rent a Car
  • Take a Taxi or Uber

How to Get Around in McLean

The best way to get around McLean is by car or taxi.

Where to Go Next from McLean: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

McLean is situated in the perfect location for easy access to other attractions nearby, including:

  • Washington D.C.
  • Arlington National Cemetery
  • George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Conclusion

McLean is a fantastic location to visit, providing a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and high-quality accommodation options. Make sure to try out some of the local cuisines and explore all of the stunning natural vistas McLean has to offer.