Support Us Button Widget

Travel and Outdoors

Grand museum atrium with tall arches, skylight, and a lifelike elephant statue. Visitors gaze in awe, creating a sense of wonder and exploration.
Play
Where to have fun with kids in Northern Virginia
We found the best kid-friendly activities in NOVA, complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
March 28, 2025 02:22 PM
 · 
Haley Bartlett
View of the Parthenon, an ancient Greek temple, on the Acropolis of Athens. The temple, built in the 5th century BC, is characterized by its iconic columns and classical architectural design. The image shows the Parthenon with a clear sky in the background and part of the Acropolis hill surrounding it.
Culture
Take a virtual tour of Washington, DC’s 15 sister cities
Our guide may even make you want to grab your passport and head for our sister cities in South Korea or Thailand.
March 24, 2025
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
A tall, red brick house sits on a grassy yard surrounded by trees.
Play
16 of the top free things to do in NOVA
No cash? No problem. Whether you are spending a day or a lifetime in NOVA, these are some of the best offerings that won’t break the bank.
March 24, 2025
Five people dressed in reflective work vests look into overgrowth off the side of the road. The second volunteer from the left is looking behind and smiling at the camera while holding a sign that says "Volunteers at work, ask us why, Arlington Regional Master Naturalist Park Stewards Program."
Play
Where to give back and volunteer in NOVA
This list of volunteer opportunities around Arlington and Alexandria includes everything from animal shelters to veterans associations.
March 21, 2025
 · 
Madison McMillen
The west facade of Saint Sophia Cathedral in Harbin, China, showcases its distinctive Byzantine-style architecture. The cathedral features a large green domed roof, brick walls with ornate detailing, and tall windows. The entrance is visible in the center, with decorative arches and a tower extending above the building.
Culture
Take a virtual tour of Fairfax’s 3 sister cities
Our guide may even make you want to grab your passport and head for our sister cities in South Korea or Turkey.
March 12, 2025
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
Rue Froide, a narrow street with colorful shop fronts in Caen France
Culture
Alexandria’s 3 sister cities: A virtual tour
Our guide may even make you want to grab your passport and head for our sister cities in Scotland or Sweden.
March 7, 2025
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
NOVAtoday: NOVA_Mt. Vernon Trail dog_MAR25
Culture
NOVAtoday’s spring ‘in’ and ‘out’ list
Spring has sprung… almost. Here are our hot takes on what’s cool this season and what’s not.
March 7, 2025
 · 
Shea Stapley
A trailhead on a path shows an image of a stick figure with a leashed dog and says "Turkey Run Loop .75 MI" and "Potomac Heritage Trail .25MI." A river is visible through the trees and down a small set of wooden steps.
Play
Take a hike: A guide to trails around Northern Virginia
Looking for the perfect hike? This curated guide highlights tried-and-true trails in the area — plus everything you should know about them, from difficulty level to accessibility and beyond.
March 6, 2025
 · 
Brianna Williams
The Buy

Shop The Buy
Latest News
More from NOVAtoday
A beer being poured at Courhaus Social.
Live
NOVA happy hour deals to quench your thirst
Hit the town and enjoy a discounted drink at one of these cheers-worthy NOVA happy hours.
July 8, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski
A metro in the NOVA/DC area.
City
How the Metro makeover in NOVA will impact your commute
Metro construction kicks off this summer — here’s how to stay ahead of the disruptions.
July 2, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski
Grapes in a vineyard.
Bars
Grape escapes: Six wineries to check out around NOVA
Kick back and relax with a glass of wine at one of these wineries with your friends and family this summer.
June 30, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski
NOVA_Composting_June11
City
The beginner’s guide to composting in NOVA
Want to be more environmentally conscious? Composting is one way you can get started.
June 30, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski
A worker installing solar panels.
How to save on your summer energy bills in NOVA
Follow these tips to help save money + energy on water, landscaping, electricity, and AC.
June 26, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski
Fireworks in the night sky.
Plan Ahead: Don’t miss these events happening in Northern Virginia
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
June 25, 2025
 · 
Staff
The signage of Great Waves Waterpark in Alexandria.
City
Your guide to staying cool in NOVA
This heat wave has us feeling, well, hot. Here are some ways you can make the most of the heat and stay cool.
June 24, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski
The bridge leading to Theodore Roosevelt Island.
City
The History of Theodore Roosevelt Island
Uncovering the people and life that once inhabited this natural spot.
June 12, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski
The aerial view of a Fairfax mansion.
City
Introducing the perfect Fairfax mansion for your summer pool party
This mansion is the IT spot for your next summer barbecue, pool party, and more.
June 11, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski
NOVA_Dog_Park_May21.jpg
Live
Our favorite dog-friendly places in NOVA
Queue “Who let the dogs out?” by Baha Men. Here are 16 spots in Northern Virginia where pups are welcome —whether you’re enjoying the outdoors or grabbing a bite at a dog-friendly restaurant.
June 3, 2025
 · 
Ava Wojnowski