In our opinion, train travel is in for 2026. | Photo via Flickr
Train travel is on the rise. Amtrak carried 32.8 million riders in fiscal year 2024 — a 15% jump from 2023 and its highest ridership ever.
To avoid unpredictable air travel around the holidays, why not give train travel a try? Here’s our guide to five different train lines that travel in and around NOVA.
Stations near us
There are three main stations in the Northern Virginia area, all within a 45-minute drive to downtown Arlington:
With the extensive public transportation options in Northern Virginia, you can easily reach these stations by Metro or bus.
If you prefer to drive, please note that parking at Washington Union Station requires payment (see rates). Parking near Alexandria Union Station also has associated fees (view garage rates). At the Lorton Amtrak Station, a free VRE parking lot is available.
This news note has me craving donuts. Texas Donuts opens in Vienna today, Dec. 3 at 5 a.m. and will be serving until 3 p.m., giving you plenty of time to stop by on opening day. Head to 167 Glyndon St. SE today to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Outdoors
More local produce for all. The Ballston Farmers Market in Arlington is now open all year-round. During the winter months, it will be open 3-6 p.m., while it’s open 3-7 p.m. between April and November. (ARLnow)
Health
Exciting news for Prince William County residents. The Inova Health Center-Woodbridge, a three-story, 42,000 sqft building, is officially welcoming patients on Tuesday, Dec. 9. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place today, Dec. 3 at 1:30 p.m. (InsideNOVA)
Biz
Looking to spruce up your home? A new decor boutique has arrived in Old Town Alexandria. Interior Instincts, located at 1124 King St., opened last month and offers a curated selection of contemporary Mediterranean-inspired pieces. (ALXnow)
Arts
The National Museum of the American Indian’s Native Art Market is back in Washington, DC, on Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This event showcases the work of Indigenous artists from across the Western Hemisphere. (FFXnow)
Pets
It’s time to cast your vote for the Warrenton Lifestyle’s Cutest Pet Contest. The winner will get a professional photo shoot and be featured on the cover of the February 2026 issue. I’m not here to sway any votes, but Patch the Old English Sheepdog puppy is just unbelievably cute.
Shop
The New York Times recently released its roundup of the 50 Best Clothing Stores in America. The DC streetwear brand, A Ma Maniere, made the list. You might find the perfect holiday gift at this store.
Health
Meet Horizon IX, an innovative hearing aid that a leading audiologist calls “nothing short of a miracle.” With dual processors for sharper speech and less noise, it offers a nearly invisible design for all-day comfort. Try it at no risk for 45 days and experience effortless hearing for the holidays.*
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Health
This FDA-registered vibrator is recommended by doctors because it boosts arousal and supports natural lubrication, thanks to its bendable shape designed to stimulate all the right spots. Even better? Save 35% + an extra 15% with code H4PPY15.*
The US Botanic Garden in DC has unveiled a new holiday exhibit featuring some unexpected guests... dinosaurs. A model train winds its way through the display, adding to the festive atmosphere. The exhibit is open daily through Sunday, Jan. 4, except on Christmas Day.
Three viral products that are actually worth paying attention to:
☕ A JavaSok — aka an insulated neoprene sleeve for your favorite iced drinks. The widely popular product is an Amazon bestseller + one of the top gifts of the season. Bonus: Discover Soks for cans, water bottles, ice cream pints, and more.
🥘 The StoveShelf — as seen in Business Insider and Food & Wine. It’s a high-quality magnetic attachment for your stovetop that stores frequently used items like spices, condiments, and cooking oils.
🐻 Something that’s on every teenager’s holiday wishlist: the viral Starbucks Bearista bear cup. If you couldn’t get your hands on the original (they sold out within minutes), we found the perfect look-alike on Amazon.
Historic Colvin Run in Great Falls is hosting a children’s holiday shopping event, allowing little ones to get gifts for their loved ones. This event will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 + Sunday, Dec. 7 — get your tickets here.
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