Looking for an extraordinary destination to dine, shop and connect with nature that’s close to DC? Reston, Virginia, is a great place to visit and only about 22 miles outside the DC area.
From unique scavenger hunts and scenic parks to sweet treats and spectacular shopping centers, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. In this guide we’ve rounded up the eight best family-friendly things to do in Reston.
Key Takeaways
Lake Fairfax Park
A destination location providing 476 acres of parkland, you’ll find a wide range of family-friendly activities and the necessary facilities to make your visit to Lake Fairfax a memorable multi-day experience. Visitors can enjoy the Water Mine family water park, family and group campgrounds, a skate park, a pump track, several hiking and biking trails and athletic fields.
- Phone: (703) 471-5415
- Location: 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston
- Hours: Playground is open from sunrise to sunset
- Review Highlight: “Scenic and relaxing park for the entire family to enjoy a picnic, go fishing, kayaking or just enjoy the view,” shares Carlow Brown, Google Reviews.
Reston Farmer’s Market
If you love fresh produce and home-baked goods, this is the place to be. Whether it’s honey straight from the hive, fresh cut flowers or pasture-raised meat, you can find it all at the open air Farmers Market of Reston.
- Phone: (703) 642-0128
- Location: 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston
- Hours: 8 a.m.-noon April 26-Nov. 22
- Review Highlight: “A great place to go with children, there are often baked good GF options, delicious fruits and veggies, and a great place to go and let everyone pick something out when you don’t feel like cooking dinner!” says Lucy Stanton, Google Reviews.
Explore Reston Town Center
A community destination for shopping, dining and special events. Offering more than 50 retailers, 35 restaurants and a multi-screen cinema, with the addition of the Silver Line Metro in 2022, RTC continues to elevate the community’s shopping and dining scene, making it a year round destination.
- Phone: (703) 579-6720
- Location: 11900 Market St., Reston
- Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sunday
- Review Highlight: “Love RTC!! There’s so many shops and restaurants (and ample parking!!) and the entire property is beautiful and well-maintained. This is a great place where you can walk around, shop, and socialize and feel safe,” shares Jessica M, Google Reviews.
Reston Scavenger Hunt
Explore the lively Downtown neighborhood as you uncover hidden gems of history, art, fitness and fun. Perfect for families or friends, this adventure blends trivia challenges with quirky surprises around every corner. From historic landmarks and timeless architecture to a race against time at a one-of-a-kind clock, each stop brings excitement and discoveries.
- Phone: (833) 202-7626
- Location: Begin at Reston Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston
- Hours: This is an on-your-own-time activity
- Review Highlight: “So much fun and not pricey at all. Did it with a group including kids. They had fun too. We will for sure do more hunts in the future,” shares Tania Paddock, Let’s Roam.
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Enjoy a family meal
Not Your Average Joe’s
Come to expect more at this comfortable, American chain offering an eclectic American menu. Offering soups and salads, pizza, burgers, sandwiches and some of Joe’s favorites including BBQ meatloaf made from fresh ingredients.
- Phone: (571) 234-8200
- Location: 1845 Fountain Drive, Reston
- Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
Matchbox
Just a few steps outside of Wiehle-Reston East metro station on the Silver Line, you’ll find Matchbox Reston Station, which features a delicious, fun-to-share menu with crave-worthy options for every type of eater.
- Phone: (703) 253-6392
- Location: 1900 Reston Metro Plaza Suite, No. 100, Reston
- Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
- Review Highlight: “This place was great. Food was delicious,” says Anthony Collins, Google Reviews for Matchbox.
Enjoy a sweet treat
Ice Cream Jubilee
- Phone: (571) 583-5434
- Location: 11990 Market St., Suite D, Reston
- Hours: Hours vary based on location
Pitango Gelato & Bakery
Try the freshest gelato in the region churned daily with the freshest milk possible. Also serving coffee and cafe items, everyone will leave satisfied.
- Phone: 703-606-9906
- Location: 11942 Democracy Drive, Reston
- Hours: 9:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
- Review Highlight: “Honestly the best ice cream place in the area! They have such unique and creative flavors and the ingredients are fresh,” says Arielle Usita, Google reviews for Ice Cream Jubilee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can families do in Reston?
Explore Lake Fairfax Park, visit Reston Town Center, browse the farmers market or try a scavenger hunt.
Where can families eat in Reston?
Not Your Average Joe’s and Matchbox offer options including pizza, burgers and other family favorites.
Where can we get ice cream or gelato in Reston?
Visit Ice Cream Jubilee for ice cream or Pitango Gelato & Bakery for gelato and café items.
Are there outdoor activities for kids in Reston?
Lake Fairfax Park offers hiking and biking trails, a skate park, a pump track and the Water Mine family water park.
More Sweet Treats to Explore
Craving something extra? Discover over-the-top milkshakes around the DMV.
