Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Burke, VA and Reston, VA

If you're looking for a unique and fun road trip experience, then look no further than the scenic drive from Burke, Virginia to Reston, Virginia. This trip is full of breathtaking views, exciting activities, and plenty of attractions to keep you entertained along the way. The halfway point of Chantilly, VA, boasts fantastic museums, one-of-a-kind shops, and more than enough eateries. Here are the top five things to do while on this road trip:

Visit the National Air and Space Museum

One of the most popular destinations on this road trip is the National Air and Space Museum located in Chantilly, VA. Visitors can explore the history of aviation and space travel, from the Wright Brothers' first flight to the latest innovations in aeronautics. With over 60,000 artifacts on display, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in space and aviation history.

Fun fact: The National Air and Space Museum is home to the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world.

Tour the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

Located near the National Air and Space Museum, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is home to massive, unique aircraft and spacecraft. Visitors can view the space shuttle Discovery, the Enola Gay, and even the Concorde, which could fly 1,354 mph, a speed that allowed it to fly from New York to London in just three and a half hours. This center is perfect for aviation enthusiasts who want to see giant flying machines up close.

Fun fact: The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is named after the co-founder of the International Lease Finance Corporation, who financed the center's construction.

Enjoy Nature at Great Falls Park

If being surrounded by nature is more your style, then Great Falls Park is the perfect destination for you. Located in McLean, VA, this park offers incredible views of the Potomac River and its waterfalls. Visitors can hike along the trails, picnic, and even go kayaking or whitewater rafting.

Fun fact: The Potomac River flows into the Chesapeake Bay and eventually the Atlantic Ocean, making it an important source of freshwater for the Eastern United States.

Washington & Old Dominion Trail

For those who enjoy biking and walking, the Washington & Old Dominion Trail is the ideal location to explore. Running for over 45 miles, the trail is a converted railroad with scenic views and beautiful surroundings, and it runs from Shirlington to Purcellville in Virginia.

Fun fact: The W&OD Trail follows the path of the former Washington and Old Dominion Railroad, which transported goods and passengers from the late 19th to the mid-20th centuries.

Wine Tasting at Barrel Oak Winery

For those who love wine, Barrel Oak Winery is an excellent destination. Located in Delaplane, VA, this award-winning winery offers a wide variety of wines and tastings throughout the day. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains while tasting fine Virginia wines and relaxing with friends or loved ones.

Fun fact: The grapes used to make wine at Barrel Oak Winery are grown in Virginia, and all the wine is produced on-site.

The Route and Travel Experience

This road trip covers about 47 miles and should take around an hour and 10 minutes to complete without stopping. However, the length of the journey will vary depending on how much time you spend at each of the destinations. Apart from driving, there are various ways to take this trip, including biking on the W&OD Trail from Vienna to Leesburg and then exploring the nearby attractions. The trip could be two days or more, depending on how much time travelers have.

In conclusion, the road trip from Burke, Virginia to Reston, Virginia is an adventure full of scenic views, interesting historical facts, and fun activities. From beautiful parks to delicious wine, this trip has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab some snacks, and hit the road for a journey you won't forget!