Reston Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Reston with our comprehensive travel guide that includes information on things to do, places to stay, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Reston

Reston, a planned community located in Fairfax County, Northern Virginia, has become a favorite destination for both locals and travelers. This suburban town is known for its vibrant culture, outdoor activities, and a variety of dining options.

Founded in 1964 by Robert E. Simon Jr., Reston was built as a planned community that would offer a high quality of life to its residents. Today, Reston remains true to Simon’s vision and has become a sought-after destination in Virginia.

List of Places to Visit in Reston

Reston is home to plenty of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Here are a few places you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Reston Historic Trust & Museum: A museum that celebrates Reston’s unique history and heritage through photographs, artifacts, and exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Reston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Anne Plaza: A waterfront plaza that hosts various seasonal events throughout the year.
  • Hunters Woods Park: A community park that offers hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.
  • OneLife Fitness Reston: This state-of-the-art gym offers an array of fitness classes and activities like swimming, running, basketball, and rock climbing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Reston

Reston has multiple biking and walking trails that offer a fantastic experience for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. A few of the most popular are:

  • W&OD Trail: This 45-mile-long trail runs through Reston and is perfect for walking, running, or biking.
  • Soapstone Trail: This trail is a 0.9-mile trail that is great for a quick hike or bike ride.
  • Glade Stream Valley Trail: This trail is a 3.3-mile-long trail and offers scenic views of the surrounding nature.

Best Things to Do in Reston: Activities and Tours

  • Reston Farmers Market: A farmer’s market that operates on Saturdays and offers various local produce and products.
  • Reston Town Center: This mixed-use development featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues is worth a visit.
  • Reflexology and Spa Center: This spa offers a variety of services, including reflexology, massages, and facials.

Week-Long Itinerary for Reston

Day Activity
Day 1 Reston Historic Trust & Museum, followed by lunch at Founding Farmers
Day 2 A morning walk or bike ride along the W&OD Trail, followed by lunch at Lake Anne Plaza
Day 3 A day trip to Washington, D.C., visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Day 4 A visit to Reston Town Center, followed by dinner at Jackson’s Mighty Fine Food & Lucky Lounge
Day 5 A hike along the Reston Association trails, followed by lunch at Clyde’s of Reston
Day 6 A day trip to Great Falls Park
Day 7 A day enjoying OneLife Fitness Reston, followed by a night out at the Bow Tie Cinemas

Food and Drink Scene of Reston

Reston’s food and drink scene is diverse and caters to all palates. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pan-seared trout at Clyde’s of Reston.
  • Buttermilk biscuits with honey butter at Founding Farmers.
  • Lobster bisque at McCormick & Schmick’s.

Local Beverages

  • New Trail Brewing Company
  • Lake Anne Brew House
  • The Wine Cabinet

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

  • Hyatt Regency Reston
  • Westin Reston Heights
  • Global Luxury Suites in Reston

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

  • Reston T-Shirt from Reston Shirt and Graphic
  • Local Honey from the Reston Farmers Market
  • Handcrafted Jewelry from Lake Anne Plaza

Local Culture and Customs of Reston

Reston is a welcoming community that values diversity and inclusiveness. The town promotes a healthy lifestyle and encourages its residents and visitors to be environmentally responsible.

Best Time to Visit Reston

Reston is an excellent destination year-round, but the best time to visit would be from April to June or September to November when the weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Reston

Do:

  • Respect the environment and leave no trace of your presence.
  • Be polite and courteous to the locals.
  • Enjoy Reston’s many outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter.
  • Disrespect local culture and customs.
  • Be rude to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Reston

Reston is a safe city, but it is always advisable to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Keep your valuables safe and never leave them in your car.

Health in Reston

Reston has plenty of hospitals and clinics that provide medical assistance. Always bring along any prescribed medications and keep emergency numbers handy.

Getting to Reston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Reston

  • Washington Dulles International Airport
  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Bus Stations Near Reston

  • Reston Town Center Transit Hub

Other Options

  • Metrobus
  • Metrorail

How to Get Around in Reston

Walking and biking are the most popular ways to get around Reston. Public transportation is readily available, and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Reston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Washington, D.C.
  • Great Falls Park
  • Manassas National Battlefield Park

Conclusion

Reston is a unique destination, offering a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, culture, and city life. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway with family or friends. With a plethora of activities, restaurants, and attractions, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in Reston.

Reston Town Center Reston Town Center