6 Favorite Scenic Places to Relax in Fairfax County Virginia

Updated on March 12, 2024 by Julie McCool

Beautiful weather makes us want to take a hike, but it also makes us want to chill. Here are 6 scenic places to relax and soak up nature's beauty on a lovely day in Fairfax County, Virginia. These places to relax are all less than an hour's drive from Washington DC, perfect for a quick escape from the city.

1. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna

There are lots of places to sit and admire the flora at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, but we're partial to these chairs near tiny Lake Lina. They're at the bottom of the hill, close to the gazebo.

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Lake Lina Meadowlark Gardens Virginia
Lake Lina Chairs Meadowlark Gardens

If you prefer a chair without the walk, head to the rockers just outside the Visitor Center. The park is especially beautiful when magnolias and cherry trees are blooming.

Meadowlark Botanical Garden rockers
Meadowlark Botanical Garden, Vienna VA

2. Riverbend Regional Park, Great Falls

Continuing with the Adirondack chair theme, the expansive deck at Riverbend Regional Park all face a relaxing view of the Potomac River. Stop by with a picnic or your morning coffee, then head out for a riverside hike on the beautiful Potomac Heritage Trail.

Riverbend Park Porch and View of the Potomac River, one of the Best Places to Picnic in Northern Virginia
Riverbend Park Porch

3. Burke Lake Park, Fairfax Station

Want a little bit more activity with your sitting? The marina at Burke Lake is open during the spring and summer, and on weekends through October. Rent a canoe or row boat and head out for some fall fishing or just to chill on the lake. The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries raves about the largemouth bass population at the lake.

Canoeing on Burke Lake
Canoeing on Burke Lake

4. Mason Neck State Park, Lorton

Willing to work a little harder for your view? The 2-mile trail to Kane's Creek at Mason Neck State Park ends in a bird blind overlooking the marsh. We sat here and watched bald eagles, blackbirds, and dragonflies in absolute peace. The quarter-mile Marsh View Trail ends in a platform with a similarly beautiful view.

Kane's Creek Mason Neck
Mason Neck State Park, Lorton Virginia

5. The Swing, Lake Anne, Reston

The Swing is one of the early art installations at Lake Anne in Reston. It's not the best view of the lake, but it's a cozy stop whether you're exploring Hidden Art in Reston or just taking a walk around the lake. It's also a great spot for a break from the busy Saturday Farmer's Market at the plaza.

The Swing Lake Anne Reston
The Swing at Lake Anne, Reston

6. The Winery at Bull Run and Paradise Springs Winery

Our last choice is actually two options. There are two wineries in Fairfax County and they both offer scenic places to relax with a glass of wine in hand.

The Winery at Bull Run has two large outdoor areas full of picnic tables—one for adults only, and one where parents can relax while the kids play.

Historic Winery at Bull Run
The Winery at Bull Run

Paradise Springs Winery offers lots of open lawn space and an enclosed back patio where wine-drinkers can enjoy music even when the weather isn't cooperating. If you want to work up a thirst, take a short hike on the Bull Run Occoquan Trail right next to the winery. Or spend a little time strolling and shopping in quaint downtown Clifton.

Colorful Fall Foliage surrounds the Paradise Springs Winery Vineyard Seating
Paradise Springs Winery Vineyard Seating

There you have it, six scenic places to relax—in a chair, a canoe, a swing, or a picnic bench with a glass of wine—and enjoy beautiful weather in Fairfax County, Virginia. What's your favorite spot to chill in Northern Virginia? Promise we won't tell anyone.

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Virginia Travel | Six scenic places to relax in Fairfax County, Virginia, where you can enjoy a quiet break, soak up a gorgeous day, commune with nature, and chill.
Places to Relax in Fairfax County VA