Community Guide: Fairfax

Text by Jessica Nicholas / Photography by Tom Lynch

SHOPPING
Fighting the traffic and playing bumper cars for a parking spot—all for the sake of shopping—is just not worth it. Stick closer to home. Head to one of Fairfax’s retail districts with a downtown vibe, tony town center and designer corridors.

Main Street
From knits and wares to make your own threads to gear to trick out any of your seasonal boards, Main Street in Fairfax City has gems to affix your shopping habits.

Stretching sidewalk to sidewalk, this corridor in the heart of Fairfax has unique local shops that remind shoppers that a main transient hub can still possess a community feel.

For a hard-to-find gift for a special event, head into Joy Unlimited, a book and gift shop that holds room upon room of religious items. Pop into Eminence Jewelers to dress yourself in diamonds, gemstones, yellow and white gold, platinum and silver. As a special treat, each month Eminence has a birthstone event sale with discounts on that month’s birthstone. Or to find frilly frocks for young ones in need of trendy, casual or formal attire, head into Young Elegance, an entire store on the main strip dedicated to dressing little ones to a tee.

If making the trends instead of following them is your thing, both The Quilt Patch and The Second Yard, which has an extensive section of quality fabrics including everything from cotton prints and wovens to 100-percent silk, offer numerous options for fashion and home fabrics, pattern books and accessories to create to your heart’s desire.

Not only does the city house unique fashion venues, it also offers plenty for those more into the active side of life.

Stop by Fairfax Board Shop, one of the oldest board shops in the Metro-D.C. area, to get the latest goods in the surf, snow and skate industries, including boards, clothing and outerwear for men and women, or get active wear and tips from the knowledgeable staff at Pacers, a family-owned running and walking specialty store that has been in business since 1991, which carries running and walking shoes, apparel and accessories for the avid runner. The store serves as a meeting place for runners and hosts twice-weekly fun runs led by some of the Pacers staff.

Fairfax Corner
A mixture of trendy stores and delectable treat shops, Fairfax Corner is the newest shopping spot for Fairfax residents. Surrounded by popular restaurants like PF Chang’s, Coastal Flats, California Pizza Kitchen, Rio Grande Café and Ruth’s Chris, the tree-lined streets make it feel as though one is strolling down a boulevard in quaint downtown, only with a twist of sophisticated style. Anchored by big-name stores such as REI, Plow and Hearth, Arhaus Furniture and Ann Taylor Loft, the shopping hub also has a range of boutique stores sure to have something for everyone.

Joining the ranks of such popular boutiques as Wylie Wagg, Lucy Activewear and Collectable Treasures, are Penny Chocolates & Gelato and Chic Envy. One offers handmade chocolates that run the gamut of mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth flavors; the other has upscale consignments with well-known tags such as Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Coach and Tiffany’s. Additional well-known, local stores include The Nest Egg, a home-accent shop, Cupcakes Actually, a bakery cooking up delicious treats, and Il Vino Fine Wine, which houses a bevy of international wines and offers free tastings on the weekends, great bites to eat, as well as a cozy space for guests to play host to private parties.

Fair Lakes
Whether you’re seeking a great deal from a major supplier, or simply running everyday errands, Fair Lakes Shopping Center is the shopping destination of choice.

Divided into sections—the Center, Promenade and Market Commons—Fair Lakes is the main shopping destination for Fairfax, especially with its close proximity to Fair Oaks Mall. The long strip at the center holds such big-box stores as Target, Wal-Mart, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Loehmanns, DSW, Toys “R” Us, ULTA, Home Goods, Michaels and Best Buy, but also has some local places to catch a bite—Cantina D’Italia, Bagel Buddies and Tony’s Pizza—and some not so widespread but just as intriguing, shops—Home Goods , Champion Billiards and World Market.

Down the street at Market Commons, shoppers can swing into Dick’s Sporting Goods, Kohl’s and Whole Foods, then pick up an ice-cold treat at Maggie Moo’s Ice Cream and Treatery.

Closest to the mall is the Promenade, with restaurants such as T.G.I. Friday’s and Silver Diner, and stores Barnes & Noble, Old Navy, Men’s Wearhouse and Broadway Gallery.

Fair Oaks Mall
If rain or the simple fact that you like the mall is keeping you indoors, Fairfax has one with more than 190 stores; including, Michael Kors, Coach, Aveda, Sephora, Pottery Barn and Pottery Barn Kids and H&M, as well as anchor stores Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, Sears and JCPenny. The mall also houses some big-name places to grab a bite; including Cheesecake Factory, Texas de Brazil, Corner Bakery and Champps.

Off the Beaten Path
Judy Ryan of Fairfax
Wedged between service stores at the Twinbrook shopping center on Braddock Road is a gem of a local shop, Judy Ryan of Fairfax. Carrying lines of Brighton, Hobo International, Jag Jeans, Hue and kids’ apparel and accessories from Zutano and Kidorable, Judy Ryan also dabbles a little in home accessories, as well as handbags and jewelry. 9565 Braddock Road, Fairfax; 703-425-1855; www.judyryanoffairfax.com.

Hobby Works
To satisfy one’s hobby cravings, go no further than Hobby Works. With everything from model trains and cars to rocket ships and games, you’re certain to find just what your project requires. Fairfax City Mall, 9650-42 Main St., Fairfax; 703-426-8600; www.hobbyworks.com.

Hudson Trail Outfitters
Almost 40 years ago, Hudson Trail Outfitters opened its doors as a specialty store featuring mountaineering, trekking, backpacking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, climbing, biking, skiing, snowboarding and fly-fishing gear. Today, it’s known for providing customers with the best in gear and the best in customer service. The store carries products from well-known vendors like Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia, Black Diamond Climbing and Montrail Footwear. 9488 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax; 703-591-2950; www.hudsontrail.com.

Patriot Harley-Davidson
At Patriot Harley-Davidson, the emphasis is on customer service and community. Its enthusiastic staff can help you purchase your first-ever motorcycle or customize a classic.

And if you would rather look like a biker, instead of be one, the store has the black leather garb to help you pull it off. Patriot also partners with the City of Fairfax to help sponsor the Ride of the Patriots, which honors the men and women in our U.S. military. 9739 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax; 703-352-5470; www.patriothd.com.

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CULTURE & EDUCATION
There is more to a community than just the places where you can eat and shop, and Fairfax is one steeped in historical significance.

Historic Blenheim and Civil Interpretive Center
From 1862 to 1863, Union troops occupied the Blenheim estate, an 1855 central hall-plan brick farmhouse on 12 acres in Fairfax. There, soldiers graffitied the walls of the home with their signatures, art and poetry, leaving future generations with a “diary on walls” that provides insight into solider life during the Civil War. Today, the estate is the site of a new 3,800-square-foot Civil War Interpretive Center that houses exhibits, meeting and education spaces, restrooms and a gift shop. 3610 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax; 703-591-0560; www.fairfaxva.gov/museumVC/
CivilWarInterpretiveCenter.asp.

Joshua Gunnell House
Built in 1830, the Joshua Gunnell House is now the Bailiwick Inn, a bed and breakfast listed as a Historic Hotel of America. The structure is famous because, during the Civil War, then-Gov. “Extra Billy” Smith ran from the house to take command of the Warrenton Rifles in a skirmish against Union forces. The house is also historic because Union Col. Johnstone escaped capture there by Mosby Rangers by hiding under the outhouse in his nightshirt. 4023 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax; 703-691-2266.

National Firearms Museum
Owned and operated by the National Rifle Association, the National Firearms Museum in Fairfax houses a world-class collection of civilian and military firearms, accoutrements, ammunition and accessories. The museum explores the history of firearms and promotes the preservation of the heritage of firearms. ‪11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax; 703-267-1600; home.nra.org/#/museum.

The Virginia Room at the City of Fairfax Regional Library
Want to learn more about the City of Fairfax? Visit the Virginia Room, located in the City of Fairfax Regional Library. It holds the county’s foremost collection of books, photographs and manuscripts relating to Fairfax County history, government and genealogy. Highlights include papers from past presidents, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. 10360 North St., Fairfax; 703-293-8365; www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/vr.

Legato School Museum
Built in 1877, the Legato School Museum is Fairfax County’s last one-room schoolhouse. In 1969, the Fairfax County School Board chose to restore the structure to commemorate 100 years of public education in Virginia. Today, it is furnished much as it would have been over 100 years ago. 4000 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, 703-279-8166; www.fcre.org.

Fairfax Station Railroad Museum
Visitors to Fairfax Station Railroad Museum will discover the station’s impact on history, from its role in the Civil War as a shipping station for wounded Union soldiers to the efforts displayed there by Clara Barton, duly named “The Angel of the Battlefield” and founder of the American Red Cross.

The Fairfax Station Museums also houses model train displays and hosts many model train events during the year. 11200 Fairfax Station Road, Fairfax Station; 703-425-9225; www.fairfax-station.org.

Fairfax Art League
Founded more than 20 years ago, the Fairfax Art League promotes art in the community with an active exhibit program featuring local talent. “Art is engrained in Fairfax,” says Mark Isaac, publicity director of FAL and longtime painter. Each month, the League’s members and volunteers hang a new installation in their Old Town Hall gallery, exhibiting works of watercolor, Impressionism, photography and more. FAL encourages anyone over 18 to join the League and thus to have the opportunity to display art in monthly shows. The League’s gallery is open to the public from Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and is located on the second floor of the Old Town Hall, on the corner of University Drive and Main.

The highlight of the League’s exhibit season is always the annual City of Fairfax Spotlight on the Arts held each spring, when the Fairfax Art League holds a reception and award ceremony for its Spotlight exhibit. The League also sponsors the Fairfax High School Student Art Show as part of the Spotlight, an exhibit that showcases student work in many mediums that include photography, graphic design and paint. 3999 University Drive, Fairfax; www.fairfaxartleague.com.

George Mason University
George Mason University (GMU), one of Virginia’s larger universities with over 35,000 students, faculty and staff, began in an eight-room elementary school with only 17 students in September 1957. GMU was named after George Mason, one of the founding fathers of the United States and composer of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which became a model for the national Bill of Rights.

U.S. News & World Report named GMU the No. 1 national university to watch in its 2009 college rankings, due in part to its strong undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as engineering and information technology, organizational psychology, health care and visual and performing arts. GMU professors conduct groundbreaking research in climate change, public policy and the biosciences. George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax; 703-993-1000; www.gmu.edu.

GMU’s Center for the Arts complex includes the 2,000-seat Concert Hall, two experimental theaters, three dance studios and music and fine arts studios. There are dance, music and theater events almost daily—most open to the public. Check out TAO: The Martial Art of Drumming, an energetic and rhythmic ensemble, on the 20th or 21st of this month. Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax; 703-993-8888; www.cfa.gmu.edu.

GMU’s Patriot Center is a 10,000-seat sports and entertainment arena designed for basketball, concerts headlined by international musicians and other sports and entertainment events for people of all ages. The center’s arena hosts over 120 events annually and in 2007 attracted more than 480,000 visiting guests. The popular rock band, Muse, will be performing there on the 1st of this month. The George Mason University Patriot Center, 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax; 703-993-3000; www.patriotcenter.com.

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra
In 1957, a small group of musicians founded the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra (FSO). Over the years, the FSO has grown into one of the finest metropolitan orchestras in the United States, now operating with an annual budget exceeding $1 million. Hailed as “the pride of Fairfax County,” the FSO has enhanced the region’s cultural life with performances by outstanding local musicians and internationally celebrated guest artists. Each summer, the orchestra’s ensemble presents more than 30 performances, free of charge, in Fairfax County parks. 3905 Railroad Ave., Suite 202 N, Fairfax; 703-563-1990; www.fairfaxsymphony.org.

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DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
If there’s one thing that brings people together, it’s food, and Fairfax has a plethora of eateries. Whether it’s a quick bite, an international feast or comfort food you seek, options are plentiful.

The Auld Shebeen
In old Ireland, a Shebeen was an illicit drinking den, much like an early-20th century American speakeasy, where patrons gathered secretly for good drink, good food and good friends.

Today’s Auld Shebeen is operating legally, of course, but still captures “Auld” World charm with its cozy pub atmosphere, traditional menu and 16 beers on tap, including Guinness, Smithwick’s and Harp, all Irish favorites.

Adding to Auld Shebeen’s authenticity are the live Irish bands—which staff says are guaranteed to get you clapping along—that perform every Friday and Saturday night from 7 to 9:30 p.m. 3971 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax; 703-293-9600; www.theauldshebeenva.com.

The Wine House
Having spent time in Napa and New Zealand’s wine country, Michael Pearce and his wife Jackie wanted to open a fine dining venue that paired boutique wines with delicious bistro fare. The result was The Wine House, a posh wine bar in downtown Fairfax.

Patrons can pair any wine in the store with their meal, by selecting a bottle off the rack at retail price and opening it at their table for a small corking fee. There are also many wines by the glass, and Wednesdays are Flight Nights, where guests can taste and analyze wine alongside the experts. 3950 University Drive, Suite 212, Fairfax; 703-352-2211; www.winehouseonline.com.

Diner 29
Diner 29 popped up on Lee Highway in Fairfax in 1947 and has been a popular spot for 24-hour breakfast ever since.

Because it’s so rare to find a continuously operating diner of its age, Diner 29 was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992. 10536 Lee Highway, Fairfax; 703-591-6720; www.29diner.com.

Todai Sushi
Expect at least three dozen different types of designer sushi alongside assorted salads (eggplant, imitation crab), soups (miso, spicy seafood), noodle-of-the-day dishes, a hot bar with assorted meats and poultry, and a fully stocked dessert island.

Sushi winners include the volcano roll, white surf clam, spicy, octopus, dynamite roll and roasted fresh water eel. 11750 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax; 703-273-0120; www.todaifairfax.com.

Cee Fine Dining
Seems everywhere you turn these days, a new Thai place crops up overnight.

But while many of these fly-by-night operations offer little more than Americanized take-out or deliberately bland buffet offerings, the traditionalists at Cee have accessorized their authentic cuisine with stylish surroundings, as well as unreserved hospitality.

Waitresses see to your every need, offering suggestions for those who might flounder when faced with the nearly 100 dining options. 9901 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax; 703-293-9898; www.ceefinethaidining.com.

Dolce Vita
Italian-born Riccardo Bellucci and Giuseppe (Joe) Ricciardi have spent over a decade living the “sweet life” in Fairfax, during which their restaurant, Dolce Vita, has thrived as a popular destination for homemade Italian favorites.

The festive locale boasts daily lunch specials that include assorted sandwich, 10-inch pizza and pasta deals. And on weekends, patrons are treated to the musical stylings of a charismatic guitarist-singer who flows from Italian to Spanish to contemporary pop with absolute ease. 10824 Lee Highway, Fairfax; 703-385-1530; www.dolcevitafairfax.com.

Jaipur
Inundate your senses with the earthen spices and competing textures of Indian cooking via fragrant spoonfuls of dal makhni, slow-cooked lentils steeped with cream and butter at Jaipur.

Native of Rajasthan, a northern Indian province west of New Delhi, the manager and chef brings patrons a host of flavorful Indian cuisine. 9401 Lee Highway, Fairfax; 703-766-1111; www.jaipurcuisine.com.

Arigato Sushi
Providing freshly made sushi by well-trained chefs, Arigato Sushi is a good place to pop in if you want to catch a quick bite.

Chefs make authentic fresh sushi daily at the restaurant and quickly prepare to-go packages as well. 11199-A Lee Highway, Fairfax; 703-352-9338; www.arigatosushi.com.

Bollywood Bistro
This stylish Indian upstart specializes in Tandoor cooking, fresh-baked breads and multifaceted vegetarian fare. The full bar and lunch buffet are popular amenities. 3955 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax; 703-273-0031; www.bollywoodbistrofairfax.com.

Dogfish Head Alehouse
Dogfish Head—Delaware’s debut microbrewery—has taken our area by storm with its area full-service alehouses, including one in Fairfax. And it seems local craft beer junkies have never been hoppier.

The biggest draw, according to Ryan, is obviously their homemade beer selection. At any given time, the restaurant appears to carry about a dozen signature drafts and bottled beer selections, including assorted seasonals, limited releases and some seriously wicked barley wines.

Appetizers are appealing, and their pizzas are grilled on both sides in order to lock in an authentically wood-fired flavor. 13041 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway, Fairfax; 703-961-1140; www.dogfishalehouse.com.

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Fairfax 2010 Events

April 16 – May 1
Spotlight on the Arts
A three-week festival showcasing music, art, dance and theater celebrates the vibrant arts scene of Old Town Fairfax. 703-352-ARTS; www.fairfaxspotlight.org.

June 5 @ 8 a.m.
City of Fairfax Trails Day
The day inspires people to seek out and hike their favorite trails, participate in exhibits, gear demonstrations, workshops and trail work projects. 703-385-7858; www.fairfaxtrails.com.

July 4
Independence Day Celebration Parade
One of the largest hometown parades and fireworks celebrations in the D.C. region, the City’s event includes a parade through downtown, historic tours and live concert. Old Town Fairfax; 703-385-7949.

Sept. 19 -24
Fall for the Book Festival
What began as a two-day literary event in 1999, has expanded into a week-long, multiple-venue, regional festival that advances children’s education and connects readers with authors. George Mason University, other locations; 703-993-3986; www.fallforthebook.org.

September
September Irish Festival
This free day-long festival, held at Van Dyck Park, celebrates Irish and Celtic song, dance and music. Local performers present the best of their various sets and encourage audience participation. Van Dyck Park, Fairfax; 703-352-ARTS.

November
Holiday Craft Show
The annual Holiday Craft Show is a weekend event spotlighting local and national artists. The festival offers holiday gift choices for everyone on your shopping list. Admission is $5 per day or $8 for the weekend. Children under 18 years old are free. Fairfax High School, 3501 Rebel Run, Fairfax; 703-385-7858; www.fairfaxva.gov.

Oct. 9
Fall Festival
Over 400 artists, crafters and musicians gather in Old Town Fairfax to display their wares. Car lovers will enjoy the New Car Show, hosted by the Fairfax City Auto Dealers Association. 703-385-7858; www.fairfaxva.gov/specialEvents/FallFestival/FallFestival.asp.

May – October
Farmers Markets
The City of Fairfax boasts three farmers markets each week: Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to noon @ Van Dyck Park on Old Lee Highway; 703-642-0128. Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. @ the corner of West and Main Streets; 703-430-6164. Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. @ the corner of Old Lee Highway and North Street, in the George Mason Square lot; 703-430-6164.

(March 2010)