Getting Oriented

Just across the Potomac River from the nation's capital is a region equally steeped in early American history. Although Northern Virginia is now home to a large portion of D.C.'s federal and private sector employees, past residents have included George Washington and Robert E. Lee. These are ideal regions in which to learn about colonial and Civil War–era America and enjoy the diversity of a region that continues to attract people from around the world.

Alexandria. Among the northernmost cities in Virginia, Alexandria was once part of the District of Columbia and now shares its border. Buildings in Alexandria's old downtown, referred to as "Old Town," retain a unified style from the Federal period (1780–1830). Alexandria was a thriving Colonial port, and these days Old Town is also a bustling nightspot with a variety of restaurants and dozens of pubs.

Arlington. Slightly to the west of Alexandria and also along the D.C. border lies Arlington. Home to Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon, and the Marine Corps and Air Force memorials, Arlington is to military history what Alexandria is to Colonial history. It's also a rapidly growing neighborhood among young professionals, drawing some of D.C.'s hottest chefs across the river.

Fairfax County. Moving even farther south and into the heart of Northern Virginia, Fairfax County is one of the most rapidly developing counties in the region, with office buildings and upscale shopping and dining overtaking neighborhoods like Tysons Corner, Reston, and the Mosaic District. History and nature are never far from mind, as evidenced by Mount Vernon and other great estates on the shores of the Potomac, and at Great Falls Park, an ideal site for hiking.

Loudoun County. To the west of D.C. is the capital of Virginia's horse country. Loudoun County plays host to various fox hunts and steeplechases each year. It is also home to Virginia's largest concentration of vineyards and a burgeoning beer industry.

Prince William County. Stretching along the southern borders of Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, this region preserves Northern Virginia's rural roots in and around Manassas, where the Manassas National Battlefield Park honors the soldiers of two major Civil War battles. To the east you'll find more military representation at Quantico and the National Museum of the Marine Corps.