Our BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts in the category - Life in Northern Virginiahttps://www.roysterhearthgroup.com/blog/Copyright RoysterHearthGroup.com2023-08-09T08:42:26-07:00tag:roysterhearthgroup.com,2012-09-20:17170Dog Friendly Summer SnacksTreat Your Pup to These Dog-Friendly Delights!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2526/image/timroyster/Dog%20snacks%20northern%20Virginia%20.JPG" width="1080" height="1080" alt="Dog friendly snacks northern Virginia " title="Dog friendly snacks northern Virginia " />
2023-08-09T08:21:09-07:002023-08-09T08:42:26-07:00Tim Roystertag:roysterhearthgroup.com,2012-09-20:16241Where to go near King Street Metro<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2526/image/Points_of_Interest_near_the_King_Street_Metro.jpg" width="940" height="788" />
King Street Metro is the ideal spot to stop and visit some of the best restaurants, cafés, shops and stores that Alexandria has to offer. Check out the list we’ve compiled below of just a few of the many highlights near King Street Metro:
Bob and Edith’s Diner – 1743 King Street
One of six locations in Northern Virginia, Bob and Edith’s Diner is a favorite amongst locals, and is open 24 hours to satisfy those late-night diner cravings! Breakfast is served all day, but dinner and lunch options are also available.
<a href="https://www.bobandedithsdiner.com/">Bob & Edith's Diner - Restaurant in VA (bobandedithsdiner.com)</a>
Whole Foods Market – 1700 Duke Street
One of the best places to find healthy and organic food items, Whole Foods Market on Duke is the perfect place to do your grocery shopping. This location also features a broad wine and beer selection, as well as a hot bar and salad bar.
<a href="https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/alexandria">Old Town Store | Whole Foods Market</a>
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – 102 S Patrick Street
If you’re looking for the best ice cream in Old Town, your search is over! Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream features rich and unique flavors, like Gooey Butter Cake and Brandleberry, with the added bonus of homemade waffle cones.
<a href="https://jenis.com/blogs/scoop-shops/washington-dc">Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams in Washington, D.C. (jenis.com)</a>
Escape Room Live – 814 King Street
In search of a unique and exciting way to spend an evening? Escape Room Live in Alexandria offers the perfect weekend activity for a family outing, a group of friends searching for fun, or a staff team-building exercise.
<a href="https://www.escaperoomlive.com/">Escape Room Live In Old Town Alexandria, VA</a>
Crate & Barrel Outlet – 1700 Prince Street
A perfect place to find discounted luxury home items, the Crate & Barrel Outlet on Prince is the ideal spot to do some weekend shopping. A cozy but well-stocked location, the store offers a great selection of furniture, décor, and kitchen items.
<a href="https://www.crateandbarrel.com/stores/alexandria-outlet/str607?SID=liyy6zjrea03mefq01egu&aff=cj&utm_source=cj&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2470763&cjevent=e1b4bb240c7911ee804180bf0a82b82d">Furniture & Home Decor Outlet Store Alexandria, VA | Crate & Barrel (crateandbarrel.com)</a>
Fibre Space Yarn Shop – 1319 Prince Street
For all the knitting, crocheting, and otherwise artistic folk, the Fibre Space Yarn Shop is the best place to meet your crafting needs! Tucked away in a quiet part of Old Town, Fibre Space provides crafting materials as well as classes for beginners.
<a href="https://fibrespace.com/event/di-gilpin-trunk-show/">Di Gilpin Trunk Show - fibre space</a>
By Grace Egger2023-05-23T10:56:55-07:002023-06-16T12:18:29-07:00Tim Roystertag:roysterhearthgroup.com,2012-09-20:5738Tips for First Time RV Campers - From Personal Experience!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2526/image/RV_Camper-2.jpg" width="2016" height="1512" />
We made summer plans to visit<a href="https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm"> Yellowstone National Park</a> but had to cancel when the pandemic hit. After months of staying home, we began searching for ways to travel confidently and safely again while taking extra precautions. We finally decided to venture out on an RV to a wooded campground with spacious campsites. Preparing for your first RV adventure can be a daunting task, so we've put together a list of RV'ing tips just for you!
Our First Time RV'ing Tips
Sign up with <a href="https://www.outdoorsy.com/">Outdoorsy</a>, a community-driven RV marketplace for renting RVs directly from local RV owners. It is an easy-to-use RV rental platform covering everything from insurance to details of each RV such as amenities, length of the rig, water and sewage capacity and so on. It also provides an internal messaging system to contact the owners directly with any questions.
Check out <a href="https://harvesthosts.com/?utm_source=HarvestHostCom&utm_medium=redirect&utm_campaign=HarvestHostCom">harvesthosts.com. </a>Harvest Hosts is a membership program that gives members access to a network of wineries, farms, breweries, museums and other attractions where the hosts invite RVers to stay overnight for free. This is a great option for "boondockers" who prefer to "boondock" (that is, stop at places without water, sewer or electrical hookups) at places that are a bit more appealing than a Walmart parking lot, for example.
Research campgrounds ahead of time and make reservations. Check size limitations, how level or even the campsite is, how spread out are the campsites, the available hookups, and the type of power your RV requires. The power pedestals at campgrounds often provide 30-amp and 50-amp outlets. We did not have to use an adapter for our 30-amp RV, so it was pretty straight-forward. Whenever in doubt, ask the RV owner.
Don't be shy to record the RV walk-through as the amount of information can be overwhelming. Our "check-in" process took 1.5 hours. It included a complete tour with detailed instructions on how to use the RV. We had to refer to our phone recording a couple of times during our trip.
Join a local Facebook group such as <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403730826402706/">Virginia Camping Families, </a>a group for camping families to share their stories and places they have been.
You'll start reading words like Class A and Class C RVs. The rig is classified as a Class A, B or C motorhome based on its size. Learn more about the different classes of RVs <a href="https://www.outdoorsy.com/blog/big-guide-to-rv-classes">here</a>. The mid-size Class C worked well for our family of five with just enough space to sleep comfortably.
Demystify the RV black, grey and fresh water tanks! The black tank holds waste from your toilet. The grey tank collects dirty water from everywhere but the toilet. The fresh water tank holds your fresh water if you are not connected to a water hook-up. Remember to check the tank levels. If you're camping for just a few days and do not want to deal with the glamorous job of emptying the black and grey tanks, you can pay a concierge fee to have that taken care of when you return the RV.
Use RV safe toilet paper! RV-friendly toilet paper is supposed to disintegrate quickly to avoid clogging up the sewage tank.
Taking a shower in an RV can be an interesting experience. The space is tight! Take quick showers to avoid filling up the grey tank too quickly or have your kids use the RV outdoor shower.
Rent an RV with an outdoor shower option. Basically, the exterior shower is just a hose, plugged into the outside of the RV. The dirty water runs into the ground and not into the grey tank. Shower in your bathing suits if there isn't a shower enclosure available. No big deal, you are camping after all!
Be ready for spontaneity! During our stay, we built a bonfire at the spur of the moment and roasted marshmallows.
Set up the RV after pulling into the lot, and plug in the water and electricity. Then, relax and enjoy.
Be ready for poor Wi-fi connection.
Avoid using the cooktop in the RV if possible (we used it for boiling water only) so you don't have to spend time cleaning up the stove, counter tops, etc. All our meals were prepared on our Coleman <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-RoadTrip-Portable-Stand-Up-Propane/dp/B07C8F2CS9/ref=asc_df_B07C8F2CS9/?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=&hvpos=&hvnetw=o&hvrand=&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4583520382285922&psc=1">grill</a> for easy clean up.
Prepare meals that require little or no prep time and pack as much as possible to avoid picking up more supplies at your destination. Here are some examples:
Hot dogs, hamburgers, and pre-packaged marinated meats.
Packaged salads.
Fruits such as apples, oranges, cherries and grapes (wash and store them in ziplock bags).
Peanut butter, jam, pitas, bread and crackers.
Desserts such as s'mores and fruit freezer pops.
Drinking water so you don't have to worry about whether the water is safe to drink. While you're add it, pack your favorite coffee as well.
Keep the water and sewer tank fluids low before you hit the road to increase gas mileage.
Fuel up the night before.
Bring a long handled broom to sweep the debris you'll inevitably track into the RV.
Bring bug spray.
When comparing the rental prices, pay attention to additional fees such as mileage and generator usage fees. Typically, you are allotted a certain number of free miles per day and charged additional fees for every mile over per day. You may also be charged an additional fee for every hour over the free hours of generator usage per day. The costs can add up, so choose wisely!
We're happy to say that we had a really good overall experience. It's not going to be a perfect camping trip but be flexible, have fun, and you'll create memories that will last a lifetime!
<a href="https://www.roysterhearthgroup.com/">THE ROYSTER HEARTH GROUP</a>
HOME is more than a place with a roof over your head. It is a place of comfort, love, warmth, rest and security – “HEARTH”. We want to help you reach that place. Hence, our mission at The Royster Hearth Group is simple – Serve Our Neighbors, Not Ourselves. We work hard to serve you in every aspect of the home-selling and -buying process.2020-07-02T12:21:00-07:002020-11-02T13:18:16-07:00Tim Roystertag:roysterhearthgroup.com,2012-09-20:5801December Holiday Events in D.C. and Northern Virginia<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2526/image/Christmas_events.jpg" width="5075" height="3383" />
This season is not just about shopping for the holidays, but also about doing things with family and friends. Check out the family-friendly events below in D.C. and Northern Virginia!
ZOOLIGHTS - November 29 to January 1 (except Dec. 24, 25 and 31) at the Smithsonian's National Zoo
This free event includes more than 500,000 lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland! This year, the Zoo's holiday tradition includes large, glowing animal lanterns and thousands of reflecting lights as part of the interactive art exhibit. Don't forget to slide down the "zootubes" near the lion and tiger exhibits! Visitors are encouraged to take public transportation since parking is limited. Click <a href="https://nationalzoo.si.edu/events/zoolights">here</a> for more information.
A FAMILY CHRISTMAS - December 24, 11 a.m. at The Kennedy Center, Washington D.C.
The Choral Arts Chorus fills the concert hall with holiday classics just for your kids! This one-hour sing-along of Christmas favorites also includes a visit from Santa, Frosty and Rudolph! Click <a href="https://www.kennedy-center.org/calendar/event/RUCAB">here</a> for more information.
U.S. BOTANIC GARDEN - November 28 to January 5, Washington D.C.
This year's theme is America's Gardens. Admire the elaborate model train display with plant based recreations of conservatories, fountains and sculptures in the model train room. There is also a large display of D.C. landmarks made from plant materials in the Garden Court and the West Gallery will feature a decorated tree with its own model train. Visit their <a href="https://www.usbg.gov/plan-your-holiday-visit">website</a> for more information.
CHRISTMAS AT MOUNT VERNON - November 29 - December 31, Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon kicks off the season with fireworks over the Potomac River on December 20 and 21. Check out other festive events such as Mount Vernon By Candlelight <a href="https://www.mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit/tours-activities/christmas-at-mount-vernon/">here</a>.
NEW YEAR'S EVE AT FIRST NIGHT - December 31, Alexandria
Ring in the New Year in Old Town Alexandria at the 25th Annual First Night Alexandria celebration. It's a live music and performing arts festival that is fun for the entire family and ends with a fireworks finale over the Potomac River at midnight. Click <a href="https://firstnightalexandria.org/">here</a> to see all the events!
BULL RUN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - November 22 to January 5, 7700 Bull Run Dr, Centreville, VA 20121
Drive the 2.5 miles festival route through Bull Run Regional Park. After viewing the lights, enjoy rides, refreshments and photos with Santa Claus a the holiday village. Click <a href="https://www.novaparks.com/events/bull-run-festival-of-lights">here</a> for more information.
2019 ICE National Harbor and Christmas on the Potomac - November 15 - December 30, Gaylord Resort
Marvel at more than 2 million lights and magnificent decorations, plus spectacular holiday activities and event. ICE! is back with a new theme featuring Dr. Seuss' classic How The Grinch Stole Christmas. New to 2019 are Feast with the Grinch! and the Reindeer Rush Ice Tubing hill, a 2-story tall, four-lane hill offering all the fun of sledding with the added speed of ice. Click <a href="https://www.marriott.com/gaylord-hotels/gaylord-national-harbor-christmas-on-the-potomac.mi">here</a> for more events.
MEADOWLARK WINTER WALK OF LIGHTS - November 8 - January 5, Vienna
Every year the garden is transformed into a half mile walk of lights. Round out your visit by roasting marshmallows and sipping on hot beverages by the fire. Click<a href="https://www.novaparks.com/events/winter-walk-of-lights"> here</a> for more details.
Note: First responders, teachers and military service members receive free admission with one paying guest on their appreciation nights. Check out these and other specials on their <a href="https://www.novaparks.com/parks/meadowlark-botanical-gardens/events">events page</a>.<br />
Christmas at the National Museum of the Marine Corps - December 14, Triangle
Visit with Santa! Bring your own camera and take a photo with Santa from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Free and open to the public! For more information and events, click <a href="https://www.usmcmuseum.com/calendar.html">here</a>.
Share your favorite December Holiday events in the DMV area!
<a href="https://www.roysterhearthgroup.com/">THE ROYSTER HEARTH GROUP</a>
HOME is more than a place with a roof over your head. It is a place of comfort, love, warmth, rest and security – “HEARTH”. We want to help you reach that place. Hence, our mission at The Royster Hearth Group is simple – Serve Our Neighbors, Not Ourselves. We work hard to serve you in every aspect of the home-selling and -buying process.2019-12-09T14:30:00-07:002020-11-02T13:19:33-07:00Tim Roystertag:roysterhearthgroup.com,2012-09-20:5802Awesome Things To Do Indoors in Northern Virginia<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2526/image/winter_indoor_activity.jpg" width="3093" height="2320" alt="Awesome Things To Do Indoors in Northern Virginia" title="Awesome Things To Do Indoors in Northern Virginia" />
The days are shorter and colder, but don't let a bad weather report ruin your fun. There is still plenty of fun to be had indoors in Northern Virginia. Switch up your outdoor activities with one of the indoor activities below.
1. Ever wanted to go skydiving?
Even if it's snowing, you can still experience skydiving indoors! Start your skydiving adventure and feel the rush of riding the wind indoors at <a href="https://www.iflyworld.com/loudoun/">iFLY Loudoun.</a>
Location:<a title="Open in Google Maps" href="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&q=iFLY+Loudoun+%28Washington+D.C.%29+20315+Commonwealth+Center+Drive+Ashburn+VA+20147" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 20315 Commonwealth Center Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147 </a><br />Phone: <a class="tel" href="tel:5714464359">(571) 446-4359</a>
2. Or maybe you like laser tagging?
<a href="https://www.shadowlandadventures.com/">Shadowland Laser Adventure Center</a> is a great option in Northern Virginia where kids and adults can play this high-energy game. There are two locations - in<a href="https://www.shadowlandadventures.com/springfield-alexandria/"> Springfield/Alexandria</a> and in <a href="https://www.shadowlandadventures.com/chantilly/">Chantilly</a>.
Springfield/Alexandria location: <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/jCLg3K45WaGoh3pi6">5508 Franconia Road, Alexandria, VA 22310</a><br />Phone: <a href="tel:7039211004">703-921-1004</a>
Chantilly location: <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/mQqc5dFiAy2um63h7">4300 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, VA 20151</a><br />Phone: <a href="tel:7032631004">703-263-1004</a>
<img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-6085 aligncenter" src="https://assets.thesparksite.com/uploads/sites/171/2019/12/laser-tag-northern-virginia-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />
3. Why not tour one of our many wonderful free museums in DC?
The <a href="https://www.si.edu/museums">Smithsonian</a> offers eleven museums and galleries in the DC area plus six other museums and the National Zoo in the greater National Capital Area. They are free and great places to stay warm in the cold weather! Click <a href="https://www.si.edu/museums">here</a> for locations and hours of operation. Also, check out these <a href="https://familytripguides.com/">museum guides</a> created by a local mom for kids. They'll save you time and your sanity!
<img class="size-medium wp-image-6072 aligncenter" src="https://assets.thesparksite.com/uploads/sites/171/2019/12/Smithsonian-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" />
4. How about some old-fashioned bowling?
<a href="http://www.amf.com/home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AMF Bowling Centers</a>. Locations in Annandale, Centreville and Woodbridge. Click <a href="https://www.amf.com/locations?radius=25">here f</a>or more locations and hours of operation.
<a href="http://bowl-america.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bowl America</a>. Locations in Bull Run, Burke, Chantilly, Fairfax, Falls Church and Woodbridge. Click<a href="https://www.bowl-america.com/"> here</a> for more locations and hours of operation.
<img class="size-medium wp-image-6073 aligncenter" src="https://assets.thesparksite.com/uploads/sites/171/2019/12/Bowling-Northern-Virginia-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />
5. How about jumping off some energy?
<a href="https://www.skyzone.com/springfield-va">Sky Zone Springfield</a> is an indoor trampoline park featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.
Location: <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/13zf8wf6ybnxgVCF6">5325 Port Royal Rd, Springfield, VA 22151</a><br />Phone: <a href="tel:703-688-2275">703-688-2275</a>
<a href="https://www.flightfitnfun.com/locations/springfield/">Flight Fit N Fun</a> is an indoor family entertainment facility that offers over 15,000 square feet of fun with wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball, basketball and much more!
Location:<a href="https://g.page/Flight-Springfield?share"> 7200 Fullerton Road, Springfield, VA 22150 </a><br />Phone: <a title="Call Now" href="tel:+17036632440">703-663-2440</a>
<img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-6086 aligncenter" src="https://assets.thesparksite.com/uploads/sites/171/2019/12/trampoline-northern-virginia-300x291.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="291" />
<a href="https://www.pumpitupparty.com/alexandria-va/other-ways-to-play/">Pump It Up </a>has huge inflatable indoor playgrounds with events through the week. Check out their <a href="https://www.pumpitupparty.com/alexandria-va/calendar/">Events Calendar</a> to find out all the ways your kids can unleash some fun!
Location: <a href="https://g.page/pumpitupalexandria?share">2000 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA 22314</a><br />Phone: <a href="tel:5714064748">571-406-4748</a>
What else can you think of that’s fun to do on a cold and muggy day? Share your thoughts with us!
<a href="https://www.roysterhearthgroup.com/">THE ROYSTER HEARTH GROUP</a>
HOME is more than a place with a roof over your head. It is a place of comfort, love, warmth, rest and security – “HEARTH”. We want to help you reach that place. Hence, our mission at The Royster Hearth Group is simple – Serve Our Neighbors, Not Ourselves. We work hard to serve you in every aspect of the home-selling and -buying process.2019-12-05T08:20:00-07:002020-11-02T13:20:26-07:00Tim Roystertag:roysterhearthgroup.com,2012-09-20:5739Best Breakfast Spots in Northern Virginia (Alexandria, Arlington, Springfield, Occoquan)<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2526/image/Best_Breakfast_Spots_in_Northern_Virginia_Alexandria_Del_Ray_Springfield_Occoquan.jpg" width="3128" height="2346" />
Our family enjoys making breakfast but sometimes we just want to treat ourselves to a nice breakfast without having to clean the dishes afterwards! Certainly, breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day (the word breakfast means breaking the fast of the prior night). Therefore, it’s only proper to have a good breakfast or brunch to start your day off right. Here are some of our favorites in Northern Virginia, in no particular order.
Bread & Water Company
<a href="https://www.breadandwatercompany.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bread & Water Company</a>'s breakfast menu has options that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eater. Try their super waffles with sweet or savory ingredients baked inside the waffles. How can you go wrong with waffles with names such as “bacon & cheddar waffle” or “sausage & pepper waffle?” Make sure to try their fresh breads and pastries too. Locations in <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/alexandria/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alexandria, VA</a> and <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/arlington/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arlington, VA.</a>
Bob & Edith’s Diner
Over 45 years family-owned and operated with locations in <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/arlington/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arlington</a>, <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/springfield/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Springfield</a> and <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/alexandria/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alexandria, </a>VA. <a href="https://www.bobandedithsdiner.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bob & Edith's Diner</a> is a classic diner with old school breakfast fare and old school service. So, enjoy breakfast pancakes, eggs, bacon, hash browns, coffee and other classic American breakfast items with the simplicity of yesteryears.
Grounded Coffee Shop
A low-key coffee shop with a welcoming ambience. For breakfast, <a href="http://groundedcoffeeshop.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Grounded Coffee Shop</a> serves freshly-baked croissants, traditional French pastries, and other bakery items baked on its premises. There are many savory and sweet croissants to choose from such as their Sausage, Egg & Cheese Croissant, Spinach & Feta Cheese Croissant and Chocolate Croissant. Try their blueberry, morning glory and chocolate chip muffins as well. It's a kid-friendly coffee shop located in <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/alexandria/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alexandria, VA.</a>
The Swiss Bakery Café
<a href="http://www.theswissbakery.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Swiss Bakery Café</a> is a local bakery located in <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/springfield/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Springfield, VA.</a> The café is committed to the culinary traditions of the Swiss. Their bakery items are freshly prepared on site daily. Try their breakfast egg sandwich on a snowflake roll or choice of six grain bread, brötchen or German sourdough rye. How about their Swiss breakfast basket served warm from the oven? You’ll probably be tempted to have dessert for breakfast too. In addition, they sell whole cakes such as our personal favorite carrot cake!
The Secret Garden Café
<a href="https://www.thesgcafe.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Secret Garden Café</a> is situated in a lovely and secluded garden for relaxed al fresco and indoor dining. Their breakfast menu features delicious options such as homemade Berry Almond Crunch French toast made with challah bread, vanilla cream cheese and raspberry filling and almond-frosted flake crust. It's a perfect place for having a relaxed breakfast with family and friends. If you haven’t been there before, you really have to look to find it as it is hidden from plain view. We can’t think of a more suitable name for the café! Located in <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/occoquan/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Occoquan, VA.</a>
Del Ray Café
<a href="http://www.delraycafe.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Del Ray Café</a> serves fantastic breakfasts and brunches. The restaurant is a charming house tucked away in the neighborhood of <a href="https://roysterhearthgroup.com/our-areas/alexandria/del-ray/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Del Ray, Alexandria. </a>Try their delicious eggs benedicts such the Jumbo Lump Crabmeat Eggs Benedict and Scottish Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict. They also serve crepes with savory selections such as ham, cheese and mushrooms crepes and sweet organic wild Maine blueberry crepes. Check out their menu for their delicious offerings!
So that's our list! Did we include your favorite NOVA breakfast spots here? If not, add your comments below!
<a href="https://www.roysterhearthgroup.com/">THE ROYSTER HEARTH GROUP</a>
HOME is more than a place with a roof over your head. It is a place of comfort, love, warmth, rest and security – “HEARTH”. We want to help you reach that place. Hence, our mission at The Royster Hearth Group is simple – Serve Our Neighbors, Not Ourselves. We work hard to serve you in every aspect of the home-selling and -buying process.2019-06-28T10:08:00-07:002020-11-02T13:22:27-07:00Tim Roystertag:roysterhearthgroup.com,2012-09-20:5805Free Summer Activities in Vienna, VA<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2526/image/Free_Summer_Activties_in_Vienna.jpg" width="2323" height="1549" alt="Free Things to Do In Vienna in the Summer" title="Free Things to Do In Vienna in the Summer" />
Vienna VA is a great place to spend a summer. It’s a city of wonderful outdoor resources, family-friendly entertainment, events and attractions to help you make the most of your summer. Here is a list of free (and almost free!) things to do in and around Vienna this summer to keep you cool and entertained.
<a href="https://www.novaparks.com/parks/washington-and-old-dominion-railroad-regional-park">Washington and Old Dominion Trail</a>
Walk, run, bike, or inline skate the 44-mile trail from Hunter Mill Road to downtown Vienna, VA. Horseback riders can take a parallel gravel trail. There are several playgrounds along the way. <a href="https://www.novaparks.com/parks/washington-and-old-dominion-railroad-regional-park">Website: https://www.novaparks.com/parks/washington-and-old-dominion-railroad-regional-park</a>
<a href="http://historicviennainc.org/?page_id=2">Freeman Store & Museum</a>
The Freeman Store was built in 1859 by Abram Lydecker and served as Vienna’s post office and fire department. Visit the restored general store on the first floor and rotating historical displays on the second. Freeman Store is Vienna’s only building on the Virginia Landmarks Register. Website: <a href="http://historicviennainc.org/?page_id=2">http://historicviennainc.org/?page_id=2</a>
<a href="https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=897">Summer Stories, Songs and Sprinklers</a>
During the heat of summer, kids can enjoy story time behind the Freeman Store at 1 pm on Wednesdays. Afterward, they can frolic in the sprinklers on the Town Green. Website: <a href="https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=897">https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=897</a>
<a href="https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=1223">Chillin on Church Block Parties</a>
Sponsored by Vienna Parks and Recreation and Ben & Jerry’s, the block parties feature music, food trucks, and kids activities. The event is held on the third Friday of every summer month. Website: <a href="https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=1223">https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=1223</a>
<a href="https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=879">Summer on the Green Concert Series</a>
Summer on the Green concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) on specified dates at the Vienna Town Green, 144 Maple Avenue E. Check out the Special Sunday Concert on July 7 of the <a href="http://www.navyband.navy.mil/country_current.html">US Navy Band: Country Current</a> - Bluegrass. Website: <a href="https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=879">https://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=879</a>
<a href="http://nvmr.org/">Northern Virginia Model Railroaders</a>
The NVMR holds 12 free open houses a year. The large model railroad layout depicts a North Carolina railroad from the 1950s and is housed in the downtown Vienna, VA train depot. Thomas the Tank Engine makes an occasional appearance. Website: <a href="http://nvmr.org/">http://nvmr.org/</a>
<a href="https://librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/calendar?cid=6524&t=d&d=0000-00-00&cal=6524&cm=3451">Patrick Henry Library</a>
The Patrick Henry Library offers a variety of free lifestyle and arts classes for kids and adults. Courses include crafts, computer programming, English conversation, and Pokémon. Website: <a href="https://librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/calendar?cid=6524&t=d&d=0000-00-00&cal=6524&cm=3451">https://librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/calendar?cid=6524&t=d&d=0000-00-00&cal=6524&cm=3451</a>
<a href="https://www.wolftrap.org/about/ticket-information/young-at-arts.aspx">Free Performances at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts</a>
While not totally free, the Wolf Trap Young at Arts program offers one free child’s ticket for each adult ticket purchased for specific performances. Performances feature an educational introduction. Guides host a free hike of the Wolf Trap trail on the first Sunday of each month. Website: <a href="https://www.wolftrap.org/about/ticket-information/young-at-arts.aspx">https://www.wolftrap.org/about/ticket-information/young-at-arts.aspx</a>
<a href="https://www.fairfaxva.gov/government/historic-resources/historic-blenheim">Blenheim House</a>
This 1859 Greek revival farmhouse is home to one of the largest collections of Civil War inscriptions in the country. Hundreds of Union soldiers left their thoughts, prayers, and pictures on the walls during the occupation in the mid-1860s. Free tours are offered at 1 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Website: <a href="https://www.fairfaxva.gov/government/historic-resources/historic-blenheim">https://www.fairfaxva.gov/government/historic-resources/historic-blenheim</a>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/red-loop-trail-around-lake-thoreau">Lake Thoreau Loop Trail</a>
In nearby Reston, walk this easy 2-mile loop around a scenic lake. Suitable for kids and dogs on leashes. Also popular for fishing and on pleasant days, you’ll find people enjoying the lake on their kayaks and canoes. Website: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/red-loop-trail-around-lake-thoreau">https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/red-loop-trail-around-lake-thoreau</a>
Bottom Line
If you know where to look, you can find some amazing things to do for free in Vienna. Did we miss a free activity or event? Let us know!
<a href="https://www.roysterhearthgroup.com/">THE ROYSTER HEARTH GROUP</a>
HOME is more than a place with a roof over your head. It is a place of comfort, love, warmth, rest and security – “HEARTH”. We want to help you reach that place. Hence, our mission at The Royster Hearth Group is simple – Serve Our Neighbors, Not Ourselves. We work hard to serve you in every aspect of the home-selling and -buying process.2019-06-12T10:20:00-07:002020-11-02T13:22:56-07:00Tim Roystertag:roysterhearthgroup.com,2012-09-20:5806Free Activities Around Arlington this Summer<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2526/image/Arlington_-_summer_activities.jpg" width="1328" height="1990" alt="Arlington Free Summer Activities" title="Arlington Free Summer Activities" />
Musical Events
2019 Military Bands Capitol Summer Concert
Venture across the Potomac between June 3rd and August 30th to attend military band concerts conducted on the West Front Steps of the U.S. Capitol Building in nearby Washington, D.C. The bands of the U.S. Armed Forces is one of the longest-standing musical influences in D.C., performing on the U.S. Capitol grounds throughout the summer since 1863. Bands representing each service branch will perform at 8 p.m. on a rotating schedule. These family friendly events will likely draw large crowds this summer! Website: <a href="https://www.aoc.gov/news/military-bands-capitol-summer-concert-series">https://www.aoc.gov/news/military-bands-capitol-summer-concert-series</a>
Rosslyn Rocks Concert
During June, a free Rosslyn Rocks Concert series takes place outdoors at Central Place Plaza on Thursdays between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Audience members enjoy free live music, and adults may purchase alcoholic beverages nearby. Website: <a href="https://www.rosslynva.org/do/rosslyn-rocks-concert-series">https://www.rosslynva.org/do/rosslyn-rocks-concert-series</a>
Summer Concerts at McLean Central Park
Yet another free concert series occurs every Sunday in June and July beginning at 5 p.m. in McLean Central Park. These concerts are sponsored by The Alden at the McLean Community Center. Bands vary every week, but will include jazz, classic rock, America and Latin music! Website: <a href="https://www.mcleancenter.org/news-items/394-summer-sunday-concerts-mclean-central-park">https://www.mcleancenter.org/news-items/394-summer-sunday-concerts-mclean-central-park</a>
Movies
Summer Movie Matinees - Columbia Pike Branch Library
Enjoy movie matinees on Thursdays at the Columbia Pike Branch Library between 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Some titles include: Green Book, Boy Erased, 42, The Babe, Moneyball, For Love of the Game, and Angels in the Outfield. Website: <a href="https://library.arlingtonva.us/calendar/?event_branch=Columbia+Pike&event_category=Film&event_page=1">https://library.arlingtonva.us/calendar/?event_branch=Columbia+Pike&event_category=Film&event_page=1</a>
Fitness
Roosevelt Island DC Parkrun - Weekly Free 5K Timed Run
Residents interested in participating in a 5K race have an opportunity to run for free every Saturday at Roosevelt Island on the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Arlington. The event begins at 9 a.m. Although participation costs nothing, first-time participants must register in advance for the weekly Roosevelt Island Park Run. Website: <a href="https://www.parkrun.us/rooseveltislanddc/">https://www.parkrun.us/rooseveltislanddc/</a>
Bottom Line
This is only a short list of interesting and fun free summer activities around Arlington. There is a lot more to do and explore! Share with us your favorite summer activity!
<a href="https://www.roysterhearthgroup.com/">THE ROYSTER HEARTH GROUP</a>
HOME is more than a place with a roof over your head. It is a place of comfort, love, warmth, rest and security – “HEARTH”. We want to help you reach that place. Hence, our mission at The Royster Hearth Group is simple – Serve Our Neighbors, Not Ourselves. We work hard to serve you in every aspect of the home-selling and -buying process.2019-06-10T03:31:00-07:002020-11-02T13:24:48-07:00Tim Royster