10 Reasons to Fall in Love with Old Town Fairfax This Autumn
This autumn, discover why there’s no place like Old Town Fairfax.
1. Seasonal Shopping Finds
Come explore the unique shops and boutiqes that make Old Town Fairfax a special place to shop. Find fall fashion staples at Mode on Main at Mara, Lucy Loves and Perfect Mistakes. Elevate your style with custom suits from William T. Clothiers, wedding and formal attire from Brooke’s Bridal or makeup with Merle Norman Cosmetics. Peruse newly released music at Mobius Records. Get your game on at Gaming Giant and Paradise Games and Gifts. Looking for treasures, check out Penny Pincher Coins and Jewelry. Ready to transform your home style or custom cabinetry? Amora Home is your Old Town Fairfax destination. Grab some mums or fall tools from our neighborhood ACE Hardware.
So much more to explore! Check out all our retail options in our directory or map.
Photo credits: Mobius Records @reese.bland, @sacredsyrene and Mode on Main, Digital Glass Photography @fitness.modeling.tiff
2. Historic Tours
Step back in time and experience Fairfax’s rich history. Take a self-guided walking tour of Old Town’s landmarks, from the historic Fairfax County Courthouse to the Ratcliffe-Allison-Pozer House and the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center. With the backdrop of changing leaves and crisp fall air, it’s the perfect way to connect with the stories that shaped our community. Check out the schedule of tours on our events calendar or our Historic Walking Tour. Historic Resources Link
3. Al Fresco Dining
As the weather cools, outdoor dining in Old Town Fairfax shines. Many restaurants and pubs offer patio seating where you can enjoy the fresh autumn air with friends. Check out our full list of patios and join us for an evening out.
Photo credit: Commonwealth Digital Glass Photography, @valeriacaceres and Mackenzies @thrujumslens, @wanderwithpandalove, @sass_and_shine, @marahairstudio, @simplyjiastyle
4. Art & Culture in Old Town
Old Town Fairfax is full of creative energy. Explore our downtown murals — colorful, photo-worthy backdrops that celebrate the spirit of Fairfax — and keep an eye out for seasonal art shows, performances, and pop-up exhibits hosted by local businesses and community groups. It’s a perfect way to add a little culture to your fall adventure. Public Art Tour
5. Fall Markets
Crisp autumn mornings are made for strolling through local markets. Shop fresh produce, baked goods, and seasonal flowers at the Saturday Fairfax Farmers Market, or hunt for vintage treasures and artisan finds at the Fairfax Funky Flea. These markets are the perfect way to support local makers and bring home a piece of Old Town charm.
6. Family-Friendly Fun
Bring the kids! Old Town Fairfax hosts family-friendly activities and events that capture the spirit of the season. Mark the calendar for Haunting for Candy (October 26) that turns downtown into a trick-or-treating wonderland for little ones. Plan ahead and schedule a session at Bond’s Escape Room for an adventure like no other! Business Directory
7. Can’t-Miss Fall Events
Mark your calendar — Old Town Fairfax is buzzing this season:
🎉 49th Annual Fall Festival (Saturday, October 11, 10-5 Old Town Fairfax) – A community favorite with vendors, food, live entertainment, and activities for all ages.
Fiesta Fairfax (Saturday, October 4, 2-7:30 p.m., Old Town Square) cultural performances, music, food and educational exhibits highlighting the contributions and experiences of the Hispanic, Latino and Latinx community
🎶 Rock the Block (Friday, Sept 26 and Friday, October 24 from 6:30-9:30 p.m., Old Town Square)
Check out our full events calendar
8. Fall into Healthy Lifestyles
Autumn is the perfect season to reset and recharge and make your health a priority. Take a class at Sun and Moon Yoga or join Exurb Fitness. Martial arts lovers flock to OSA and Kaizen MMA for classes offered for all ages as well as after school programs. Looking for a practitioner? From Harmony in Health, Jaguar Integrative acupuncture to Pure Movement Physical Therapy and NOVA Spine and Wellness, Old Town Fairfax is filled with quality healthcare options close to home. Click here for Health and Wellness Business Directory
Photo credit: Sun and Moon Yoga @thrujumslens @wanderwithpandalove
9. glam up for the season
Fall is the time for a fresh look! Treat yourself to a new hairstyle, relaxing spa service, or spray tan right here in Old Town Fairfax. From Mara Hair and Mode Studio and Standard Barber Shop to Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa or Smiley Skin Beauty you’ll find everything you need to refresh your style and step into the season looking and feeling your best. Salons and Spas Business Directory
Photo credit: @photosbysteven; @sass_and_shine, @marahairstudio, @simplyjiastyle
10. Perfect Date Nights
Looking for a romantic evening? Start with dinner at Ornery Beer Company or Hamrock’s, then stroll hand-in-hand through our historic streets (and maybe snap a photo by one of the murals!). End the night with a craft cocktail at Draper’s or Mackenzies — the perfect way to blend charm and nightlife in one unforgettable outing. Click for a full list of Food and Drink options
Photo credit: Mackenzies @jtwphotosva; Ornery and Hamrocks @thrujumslens @wanderwithpandalove @sass_and_shine, @marahairstudio, @simplyjiastyle
Plan Your Visit Today
Whether you’re here for a day trip or an evening out, Old Town Fairfax offers something for everyone this fall. Come shop, dine, and celebrate the season with us.