Unique things to do in Fairfax County

We're going to explore one of the true hidden wonders of Washington, D.C., a Civil War fort nestled deep in Rock Creek Park. In July, 1864, a Confederate Army attempted a surprise invasion of Washington, D.C., hoping to sow panic and drive Congress and President Lincoln from the Capitol. Confederate forces swept into the city, and fought a desperate battle among the northern defenses of Washington. President Lincoln rode over to the see the fighting, the only time in American history a president has been under enemy fire. Eventually Union forces repelled the attack, and Washington was saved. It’s considered one of the greatest what-ifs in American history: Had the Union lost the battle, most historians believe there would have been a negotiated settlement to the war, and a durable Confederate nation. We’re going to visit Fort DeRussy, one of the forts that drove back the Confederate attack, and learn the full story of how the Civil War came to Washington. Abandoned after the war and overgrown, Fort DeRussy was practically lost to history. Today, it’s virtually unknown: I grew up blocks away and didn't even know it was there. It's an astonishing, beautiful ruin in a peaceful forest grove. Other things to note Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly. Wear clothing that you don't mind getting a bit dirty and be sure to wear comfy shoes.

Discover the musical heritage of U Street --aka Black Broadway-- from jazz to hip hop to punk to go go. Walk the streets & back alleys and learn how murals, theatres, music venues, and memorials embrace the history of this amazing neighborhood. Along the way, we'll listen to a diverse playlist that will match up with the murals and venues. Other things to note: This tour ends at the intersection of 13th & U NW, 8 blocks from the starting point. Typically I hold tours rain or shine, unless the weather posses a safety hazard (lightning, ice, tornado, etc). If a weather-related emergency arises, I will be in contact with the group to cancel, delay, or reschedule. The tour includes long periods of standing and walking outdoors. Please wear comfortable and weather-appropriate footwear and clothing. Restrooms may not be available during your tour; please plan accordingly.

Join husband-and-wife duo Leo and Monica for an evening of laughter, fun, and fresh pasta, with recipes rolled straight from Leo’s traditional Florentine roots. This is a great experience for Couples, Family and Celebrations or special nights with your loved one. This is the most reviewed experience making Handmade Pasta Class in the entire area. We'll jump into the pasta-making portion of our class. You’ll learn just how easy it is to whip up a perfect pasta dough, roll it out, shape and fill each delicate nibble with a punchy, flavor-packed filling made from scratch. The class will focus on 3 types of Pasta (Ravioli, Tortellini and Tagliatelle plus some surprise shapes). Every class will last about three hours, at the end of which guests will have dinner with the hosts and taste their creations on the spot! Tortellini, ravioli, tagliatelle, spaghetti – after a few hours in Leo and Monica’s kitchen, you’ll be able to tackle any variety and produce a pasta-piece that tastes even better than it looks. Better yet, you can ask ahead of time for a more personalized menu. Other things to note Please let us know in advance if you have Food allergies or intolerance.

Experience the heart of Washington, DC with us on a guided 3-hour journey through the National Mall. This dynamic tour seamlessly blends driving and walking to ensure you "SEE IT ALL." Starting at the Washington Grand Hyatt, our adventure begins right in front of Starbucks. Meet your knowledgeable Tour Guide, board our comfortable van, and set off for the National Mall. With live commentary from your guide, immerse yourself in the stories behind the monuments, memorials, and other captivating attractions that define the National Mall's significance. Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore several of DC's major attractions for 15 to 25 minutes at each location. Our drop-offs and pickups are strategically situated as close as legally feasible to each site, ensuring convenient access. As the tour concludes, we return you to the Washington Grand Hyatt. And to cater to your comfort: - Stay refreshed with complimentary water. - Keep your phone powered up with our charging equipment, simply inform your driver. - No need to worry about the weather – rain or shine, we've got you covered with umbrellas.

Discover the heart of the Nation's Capital with our expertly guided 4-hour tour of the Iconic National Mall. If you're eager to "SEE IT ALL," then this is the tour for you. Tour Highlights: Meeting Point: Your adventure begins at the Washington Grand Hyatt, where you'll meet your friendly and knowledgeable tour guide in front of Starbucks. After a warm welcome, you'll hop into our comfortable van, ready to explore the treasures of the National Mall. Driving and Walking: This comprehensive tour combines the convenience of driving with the intimacy of walking, offering you the best of both worlds. You'll cover all the major DC sites, including monuments, memorials, and other attractions. Live Commentary: Throughout the journey, your expert guide will provide live commentary, offering fascinating insights into the history, significance, and stories behind the monuments and landmarks that grace the National Mall. Exploration Time: At each major site, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore for 15 to 25 minutes. We ensure drop-off and pick-up locations are as close as legally possible to make your experience seamless. Private Experience: Want an exclusive tour for just your group? You can book our Private Experience, accommodating groups of up to 30 people. Enjoy a personalized adventure tailored to your interests.

Looking for one of DC’s best-kept secrets? Join us for an exclusive cocktail experience showcasing Netflix-featured, award-winning mixologist Kapri Robinson. In an engaging 60-minute session, you’ll be guided through a professional tasting, learn the history of two classic cocktails, and get answers to your pressing bartending questions — once you have the password to enter! This intimate experience is limited to 8 people per sitting and is hosted at a hidden gem in DC— it can only be found if you know what and who you're looking for. The experience includes 2 spirit tastings, 2 cocktails, snacks, drink recipes, private VIP access to one of DC’s top venues, and lessons on cocktail history. It is great for a unique date night experience as well as for groups looking to relax and have some fun! You’ll leave with enough know-how to dazzle your friends with your newfound ability to make cocktails at home. Pull up a stool and get ready to take notes in the best possible atmosphere to learn — sitting back at the bar, drink in hand.

Come learn a bit about French culture while learning how to make traditional-French crepes from scratch with Chantal, a French native and owner of Crepes by C! This class is a completely hands-on experience. You will prepare your own batter by mixing pre-measured ingredients, learn how to use a professional crepe machine and have the opportunity to try your hand at making delicious crepes. I will provide all the necessary tools and ingredients. By the end of the class, you will have the skills and confidence to prepare crepes at home for your friends and family. And who knows, you may even discover a new passion for French cuisine! This class is suitable for all skill levels and is a great activity for foodies, couples, and groups of friends. I can't wait to share my love of crepes and French culture with you!

First we will welcome guest into our space by sharing some history of graffiti art in Washington DC. Then we will begin the process of creating name based art work on paper, and then on our 50 foot long x 9-foot tall practice wall. Other things to note Our organization is proud to have worked with the community over the past 20 years. We are unapologetic advocates for the hip-hop arts and we welcome you to join our educational Experiences. In an abundance of caution we are requiring all experience participants to present proof of vaccination to enter our experiences.

We're vaccinated for your safety and peace of mind! If you've ever dreamed of sailing in a tropical paradise, we can help you get a great start to achieve that dream! From the very start you'll be on our stable and comfortable 36' Sabre sailboat, Condor. We'll jump right in with a little hands-on theory and terminology. Then we'll cover the important safety information and head out into Baltimore harbor. We will steer Condor out away from the dock, and then hand her over to you and your fellow students. Under our watchful and encouraging direction, you will be sailing! Just the wind and the sails and you! You and the other students will rotate through each position on the boat. You will be steering and hoisting and trimming sails, putting the theory you just learned to practical use. We limit the class size to five students to ensure that everyone gets sufficient hands-on time to learn and practice and ask questions. During this class, you'll learn basic sailing theory, terminology, and how to steer, hoist sails, trim sails, and tack. You will also have the opportunity to see many of the famous (and not so famous) Baltimore waterfront landmarks. Other things to note We're sailing on the 36' sailboat so it's not likely you'll get wet (unless it is raining). We will sail in light rain, but not in thunderstorms. Come ready to learn and have fun!

We will start with instruction in hip-hop history and then will teach you how to set up and use technique 1200 turntables to play the beautiful vinyl! You will select from our tremendous record collection and start to scratch and blend right away - from Marvin Gaye to the current hits, you'll be able to mix your favorite tracks like a professional DJ! This is as much about learning the history of DJing as it is about you having your own expierence of the culture and technology. Other things to note Our organization is proud to have worked with the community over the past 17 years. We are unapologetic advocates for the hip-hop arts and we welcome you to join our educational Experiences. In an abundance of caution we are requiring all experience participants to present proof of vaccination to enter our experiences.

From spies to secret passageways put your super sleuth skills to the test as you search for over 80 secret doors and explore our themed rooms. We would never give you a map - this would ruin the surprise of finding a secret door but you will have a Q & A with one of our docents before you start your journey. It’s not in the finding, it’s in the seeking that is important. Experience the magic! Your self-guided experience will begin with an in-depth video introduction to our history and our secret doors, as well as what to look for as you go. Then, we will send you off on your own to search for the secrets and treasures that are everywhere to be found. As you explore the mansion, which is steeped in history and intrigue, you'll be walking in the footsteps of presidents, freedom fighters, G-Men, historians, famous musicians, and fiction writers. Built 125 years ago, nearly every President since Teddy Roosevelt has visited. Things to note We guarantee you can see at least 60 of our legendary rooms — but be warned secret doors are tricky to find —if you find 2 or 3 you are an above average sleuth All ages can attend. If you have a short attention span, this is the place for you because there is so much to see and do. If you are a minimalist, you will be overwhelmed. Museum closes: Sunday - Tuesday at 6pm and Wednesday - Saturday at 9pm.

In this tour you will learn about the farm, visit an old spring house, play with mini donkeys, feed Kent sheep and pet and feed Mini Highland cows. Note: You will not go into the pasture with the cows, but you will get to pet and feed them through the fence. You will have an opportunity to go in the pastures with the Mini donkeys and Kent sheep. Cows, donkeys and sheep are very friendly and will enjoy giving you licks, eating out of your hand. Some guests like to set chairs up and just be in the pasture with the donkeys and sheep (while we are present guiding the experience). We will provide the treats, brushes, balls to interact with and chairs for observation -along with full time instruction. Need a place to stay? Want to have 24 hours a day of animal viewing? We have got you covered. Just reach out and we can set you up in one of our onsite AirB&B's.

If you enjoy real-life spy stories, covert operations, and international intrigue, this tour is for you. All of our tours are developed and delivered by former intelligence officers. Learn spy mindset as you explore the hidden history of Georgetown. Hear about the crucial role residents played in espionage during WWII and the Soviet Era. And…conduct a secret operation! Hint: Bring your map reading skills. This tour is ideal for groups and teams. Don’t forget your walking shoes, bring water, and dress for the weather. Not seeing a tour on the calendar that works for your schedule? Submit a request for a new date/time. We'll work with you and do our best to accommodate your needs.

You'll arrive 15 minutes to tour time to check-in and be fitted on your bike. Our hybrid bikes are perfect for city riding and we have a variety of sizes to fit you - no matter how tall or small. Our bikes have a handle bar bag and rack so you can store all the essentials - phone, keys, wallet. After getting set up, you'll meet your guide & your group and hear a few safety tips and "rules of the road" before setting off on tour. We'll head out to the first stop, where we'll stop and your guide will share some history, and unique facts, and perhaps a dark secret or two. Your tour will cover about 5 miles in three hours, making stops at all of the major monuments and memorials on the National Mall and around the Tidal Basin. At each stop, you'll hear from your guide before being given a few minutes to explore on your own and snap a photo or two. Don't worry! Your guide will stick close to the bikes, giving you the freedom to wander a bit. Our tour route will end back at our shop, where our staff can help direct you to your next activity. Or you can, choose to keep your bike and keep exploring on your own (additional cost). Other things to note Arrive for check in 15 minutes prior to tour start time. Tours depart on time; we cannot accommodate late arrivals. There is an optional insurance policy available for purchase onsite.

Treat yourself to great pictures as a souvenir while experiencing DC landmarks. The photo session starts at the Lincoln Memorial which has great views of the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument. Then we have the option of taking a 10 minute walk to take more photos at either a beautiful park or at another Memorial on the National Mall. This photo session can be adapted for engagements, elopements, families, graduating seniors, maternity, surprise proposals and business headshots. In a non-private session, another person may book and join you. We will walk together as a group and rotate between who is taking pictures. Select the private option if you do not wish to share your session with another person. Photos are typically delivered in 1 to 3 days. 10 edited high-res photo downloads are included. Additional photo downloads can be purchased for an additional cost. After signing up, check your Airbnb messages to answer a short questionnaire and to receive the prep guide. Message me if you wish to have a session for a time not listed or if you have any questions.

We're going to explore one of the true hidden wonders of Washington, D.C., a Civil War fort nestled deep in Rock Creek Park. In July, 1864, a Confederate Army attempted a surprise invasion of Washington, D.C., hoping to sow panic and drive Congress and President Lincoln from the Capitol. Confederate forces swept into the city, and fought a desperate battle among the northern defenses of Washington. President Lincoln rode over to the see the fighting, the only time in American history a president has been under enemy fire. Eventually Union forces repelled the attack, and Washington was saved. It’s considered one of the greatest what-ifs in American history: Had the Union lost the battle, most historians believe there would have been a negotiated settlement to the war, and a durable Confederate nation. We’re going to visit Fort DeRussy, one of the forts that drove back the Confederate attack, and learn the full story of how the Civil War came to Washington. Abandoned after the war and overgrown, Fort DeRussy was practically lost to history. Today, it’s virtually unknown: I grew up blocks away and didn't even know it was there. It's an astonishing, beautiful ruin in a peaceful forest grove. Other things to note Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly. Wear clothing that you don't mind getting a bit dirty and be sure to wear comfy shoes.

If you enjoy real-life spy stories, covert operations, and international intrigue, this tour is for you. All of our tours are developed and delivered by former intelligence officers. Learn spy mindset as you explore the hidden history of Georgetown. Hear about the crucial role residents played in espionage during WWII and the Soviet Era. And…conduct a secret operation! Hint: Bring your map reading skills. This tour is ideal for groups and teams. Don’t forget your walking shoes, bring water, and dress for the weather. Not seeing a tour on the calendar that works for your schedule? Submit a request for a new date/time. We'll work with you and do our best to accommodate your needs.

In this tour you will learn about the farm, visit an old spring house, play with mini donkeys, feed Kent sheep and pet and feed Mini Highland cows. Note: You will not go into the pasture with the cows, but you will get to pet and feed them through the fence. You will have an opportunity to go in the pastures with the Mini donkeys and Kent sheep. Cows, donkeys and sheep are very friendly and will enjoy giving you licks, eating out of your hand. Some guests like to set chairs up and just be in the pasture with the donkeys and sheep (while we are present guiding the experience). We will provide the treats, brushes, balls to interact with and chairs for observation -along with full time instruction. Need a place to stay? Want to have 24 hours a day of animal viewing? We have got you covered. Just reach out and we can set you up in one of our onsite AirB&B's.

Join us for a historic Donut adventure through our nation’s capital, Washington DC. Our tour begins in Western Market, which has a legacy dating back to 1802! There we will sample donuts made from a business that’s been in the same family for five generations. From there we’ll head downtown, where we’ll see a restaurant favored by a former President before passing by the White House itself for a perfect photo op. After soaking in some history at Lafayette Square, we’ll head deeper into DC to try some local fan favorite donuts from local celebrities. From there, we’ll head down Palmers Alley, one of the most photographed spots in DC, where we’ll end our adventure with delectable donuts with an international flavor. By the end, you’ll have made some great friends and enjoyed some incredible donuts and history. We hope you can join us today!

Why wine and dine, when you can wine and bind? Come share in some great local wine with a great community of book lovers, while learning to bind your very own journal. In this workshop you'll get a complete introduction of all the necessary tools required for traditional book binding, while having an opportunity to explore the inter-workings of the Drama MaMa Bookshop Incubator Space. After which you'll work with a variety of found materials to design and personalize your journal cover and learn the long-stitch book binding method from me, THE DRAMA MAMA. Come get a unique hands on experience that could last a lifetime! Other things to note Parking is pretty simple in the area. It's a residential/business area with plenty of parking.

Looking for one of DC’s best-kept secrets? Join us for an exclusive cocktail experience showcasing Netflix-featured, award-winning mixologist Kapri Robinson. In an engaging 60-minute session, you’ll be guided through a professional tasting, learn the history of two classic cocktails, and get answers to your pressing bartending questions — once you have the password to enter! This intimate experience is limited to 8 people per sitting and is hosted at a hidden gem in DC— it can only be found if you know what and who you're looking for. The experience includes 2 spirit tastings, 2 cocktails, snacks, drink recipes, private VIP access to one of DC’s top venues, and lessons on cocktail history. It is great for a unique date night experience as well as for groups looking to relax and have some fun! You’ll leave with enough know-how to dazzle your friends with your newfound ability to make cocktails at home. Pull up a stool and get ready to take notes in the best possible atmosphere to learn — sitting back at the bar, drink in hand.

Discover the musical heritage of U Street --aka Black Broadway-- from jazz to hip hop to punk to go go. Walk the streets & back alleys and learn how murals, theatres, music venues, and memorials embrace the history of this amazing neighborhood. Along the way, we'll listen to a diverse playlist that will match up with the murals and venues. Other things to note: This tour ends at the intersection of 13th & U NW, 8 blocks from the starting point. Typically I hold tours rain or shine, unless the weather posses a safety hazard (lightning, ice, tornado, etc). If a weather-related emergency arises, I will be in contact with the group to cancel, delay, or reschedule. The tour includes long periods of standing and walking outdoors. Please wear comfortable and weather-appropriate footwear and clothing. Restrooms may not be available during your tour; please plan accordingly.

From spies to secret passageways put your super sleuth skills to the test as you search for over 80 secret doors and explore our themed rooms. We would never give you a map - this would ruin the surprise of finding a secret door but you will have a Q & A with one of our docents before you start your journey. It’s not in the finding, it’s in the seeking that is important. Experience the magic! Your self-guided experience will begin with an in-depth video introduction to our history and our secret doors, as well as what to look for as you go. Then, we will send you off on your own to search for the secrets and treasures that are everywhere to be found. As you explore the mansion, which is steeped in history and intrigue, you'll be walking in the footsteps of presidents, freedom fighters, G-Men, historians, famous musicians, and fiction writers. Built 125 years ago, nearly every President since Teddy Roosevelt has visited. Things to note We guarantee you can see at least 60 of our legendary rooms — but be warned secret doors are tricky to find —if you find 2 or 3 you are an above average sleuth All ages can attend. If you have a short attention span, this is the place for you because there is so much to see and do. If you are a minimalist, you will be overwhelmed. Museum closes: Sunday - Tuesday at 6pm and Wednesday - Saturday at 9pm.

Create a messy masterpiece with me as we explore florescent splatter paint abstraction. Jam to your favorite tunes while you paint! Upon your arrival you will receive: A full disposable suit Spray Paint A Canvas Glow in the dark paints Water cups Paint brushes Gloves After you are dressed in your painting gear, I will guide you to the spray booth/ splatter room fully lit with black light and color lights, equipped with a Bluetooth speaker for a blissful painting experience!

Join husband-and-wife duo Leo and Monica for an evening of laughter, fun, and fresh pasta, with recipes rolled straight from Leo’s traditional Florentine roots. This is a great experience for Couples, Family and Celebrations or special nights with your loved one. This is the most reviewed experience making Handmade Pasta Class in the entire area. We'll jump into the pasta-making portion of our class. You’ll learn just how easy it is to whip up a perfect pasta dough, roll it out, shape and fill each delicate nibble with a punchy, flavor-packed filling made from scratch. The class will focus on 3 types of Pasta (Ravioli, Tortellini and Tagliatelle plus some surprise shapes). Every class will last about three hours, at the end of which guests will have dinner with the hosts and taste their creations on the spot! Tortellini, ravioli, tagliatelle, spaghetti – after a few hours in Leo and Monica’s kitchen, you’ll be able to tackle any variety and produce a pasta-piece that tastes even better than it looks. Better yet, you can ask ahead of time for a more personalized menu. Other things to note Please let us know in advance if you have Food allergies or intolerance.

We will meet at the infamous Lincoln Memorial to take advantage of it’s beautiful white backdrop and architecture. There, we can capture great views of the entire national mall seeing the Monument and Washington Capitol. Then we will continue to explore the mall as we walk alongside the reflecting pool towards the WWII memorial then past that to the Washington Monument. Portraits available: individual, couples, families (up to four people)! Group rates available for 5+ people. For groups of 6 or more, please PM for options!! NOTE!!! Please book the private group option if you are not willing to share your time slot with other travelers! The experience is defaulted to allow up to 6 related or unrelated travelers to be in a group, if you do not book all 6 slots in a public group, the slot remains open for others to join you. Booking a private group (however many people it might be) ensures only your group has that slot!!!

We'll meet at the first restaurant stop and you'll learn a little more about what to expect from your tour experience. We want to make sure that you have fun, learn a few new things, and end up pleasantly full by the end of your tour. Sample Southern comfort food in a Prohibition-era bar where John F. Kennedy proposed to Jackie Bouvier, sip tea near a canal once used to transport goods to the West, and taste socially-conscious street food that helps feed refugees. Once a thriving port town, Georgetown is DC’s oldest neighborhood and still reveals glimpses of mule-drawn boats and flour mills. Discover Georgetown’s cosmopolitan past, where people from every continent and many religions lived together and built an eclectic culinary community. More than just a premier shopping destination, Georgetown has a delicious and culturally-diverse history that might surprise you. Other things to note The tour goes out in rain or shine so dress appropriately. A potion of your ticket will be donated back to help feed a local in need through our partnership with Bread for the City. Allergies or dietary restrictions? We try our best to accommodate you. Please let us know in advance. Please note: Unfortunately, as our tastings contribute to our story, we are not able to accommodate vegan diets, dairy, or gluten allergies on our Georgetown tour.

The National Air and Space Museum covers everything from the early history of flight to the Space Race and moon landings. Learn all about the history of flight and what it takes to be an astronaut with one of our expert guides on this 2 hour semi-private guided museum tour which welcomes up to 8 guests. From the Apollo 11 Command Module to real moon rocks, the National Air and Space Museum has some of the most out-of-this-world artifacts. You’ll see earlier examples of planes like the Wright Brother’s aircraft and the Spirit of St. Louis, which successfully crossed the Atlantic Ocean before such a feat seemed commonplace. Your guide will discuss the myths behind the mysterious disappearance of famed pilot Amelia Earhart. Come face to face with space suits used by astronauts working on the Hubble telescope and see the two story back ups for the Hubble telescope and the early space station Skylab dominate your field of vision and since the originals stayed in space, this is the best way to get up close and personal! Moonwalk by lunar modules as you discover the history of the world’s leading air and space program including the innovation and technology that made it possible to land a man on the moon. There’s even freeze dried ice cream in the gift shop to complete the experience. Other things to note Wheelchair tours under request only Bring Valid Photo ID Arrive 10min early! Don't bring large bags or suitcases Permanent Collection Only PLEASE NOTE: The Air & Space Museum is currently under massive construction. On display at this moment: https://airandspace.si.edu/exhibitions/now-view

Your guide will meet you at our first restaurant and provide an introduction and an overview of what we'll be doing and what to expect. Step into a neighborhood rich with local DC history. Away from the monuments and the memorials, U Street is not Washington, but the REAL DC. Discover DC's diverse culinary roots and history while we stroll and chat about the heyday of “Black Broadway” and the role this area played in during the Jazz Era. You’ll be surprised to learn how many household names had their start in the little clubs along this corridor. Learn about the Civil Rights riots that shaped the city and changed its landscape for years to come. We will taste a variety of cuisines whose flavor contribute directly to the stories and the history of this DC neighborhood. U Street is an essential spot in DC and is not to be missed! Other things to note: We run tours rain or shine. Please dress appropriately. Please note that this is a progressive walking tour. You must arrive to the start point on time. Late arrivals cannot be caught up. A potion of your ticket will be donated back to help feed a local in need through our partnership with Bread for the City. Allergies or dietary restrictions? We try our best to accommodate you. Please let us know in advance. Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate a vegan diet.

I will take photographs of you while we walk to a few locations throughout Washington DC. This will include the United States Capital Building, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Monument. If the weather is good, we will also go to a beautiful park where you really feel and see the lovely DC landscape. I will focus on taking pictures in as natural a way as possible, while you go about enjoying the scenery. In the end, you will have professional-looking pictures that I believe you will thoroughly enjoy. We will take a look at some of the pictures and I will then send them to you digitally.