Photo: Dave Duffett
Photo: Andrew Sample Photography
Photo: Nir Asif
Reston Town Center
★4.4(6,859 reviews)FreeShopping
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers and preschoolers love the fountain area and open plaza for running around, while elementary-aged kids enjoy the seasonal ice skating rink and special events. Tweens and teens appreciate the mix of shops, movie theater, and dining options.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
Reston Town Center is a vibrant outdoor plaza that offers year-round family fun in the heart of Northern Virginia. Kids love splashing in the interactive fountains during summer, ice skating in winter, and enjoying free concerts and seasonal events on the plaza. With plenty of green space, outdoor seating, and family-friendly restaurants all in one walkable area, it's perfect for a full afternoon of entertainment without feeling like a traditional mall.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive fountain plaza perfect for summer water play
- ✓Seasonal outdoor ice skating rink with skate rentals available
- ✓Free concerts and movie nights on the pavilion during warmer months
- ✓Wide variety of family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating
- ✓Year-round special events including holiday celebrations, farmers markets, and festivals
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring a change of clothes and towel in summer,kids won't be able to resist the fountain plaza, which becomes an impromptu splash zone
- 2.Park in the Market Street garage (free for 2 hours) for easiest access to the main plaza and fountain area
- 3.Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience; weekends can get crowded, especially during events
- 4.Check the Reston Town Center events calendar before visiting,they host free outdoor movies, concerts, and holiday celebrations throughout the year
- 5.The pavilion area offers plenty of shaded seating where parents can relax while keeping an eye on kids playing in the fountain
Best Time to Visit
Weekday late mornings or early afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds. Summer evenings offer wonderful fountain play and free concerts, while winter weekends are magical for ice skating under the lights. Spring and fall provide perfect weather for exploring without extreme temperatures.
What to Know
Parking is free for the first two hours in surrounding garages, then $2 per hour. The plaza itself is free to enjoy, though ice skating (winter only) requires ticket purchase. Numerous restaurants offer indoor and outdoor seating with kid-friendly menus, and the area is stroller-friendly with accessible pathways.
Seasonal Notes
The ice skating rink typically operates from November through March. Fountain play is best from late spring through early fall. Summer brings free outdoor concerts and movie nights (usually Friday evenings). Holiday season features special decorations, Santa visits, and festive events.
Nearby Eats
Try Not Your Average Joe's for a relaxed family atmosphere with an extensive kids menu, or visit Founding Farmers for farm-to-table American cuisine with plenty of options for picky eaters. Both restaurants are located right on the plaza with convenient outdoor seating during nice weather.
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