TL;DR

Looking for what to do in Chantilly, VA? You can visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, stroll through the beautiful Flatlick Stream Valley Park, enjoy mini golf and arcade games, explore Civil War history in Fairfax County and enjoy day trips to Shenandoah National Park, Luray Caverns and of course, Washington, DC. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or thinking of moving permanently, Chantilly offers much more than you might expect.  

Chantilly, VA, has a lot to offer. If you’re planning a trip to Northern Virginia, visiting family near Washington, DC, or perhaps you’re thinking of relocating or studying, then you’ll be wondering what to do in Chantilly. While it may not get the same attention as the capital city, it still offers a wonderful mix of history, outdoor spaces and attractions, while also being a stone’s throw away from Virginia’s other iconic locations. 

You’ll find Chantilly, VA, just minutes from Dulles Airport, and around 25 miles from downtown Washington, making it a convenient base for both short visits and longer stays. Whether you decide to wander Chantilly’s glorious parks, explore the museums or enjoy the sights of central Chantilly, there’s something here for every type of visitor. 

A Short History of Chantilly, VA

As a state, Virginia has a rich history, and Chantilly is a key part of it. Located in Fairfax County, the area was the site of the Battle of Chantilly in 1862. You will still find evidence of Chantilly’s history today, and its importance to Virginia.

Chantilly has strong farming roots and is now an important suburb, just a short drive from both Washington, DC, and Dulles Airport. There’s an incredible community here, one that appeals to both visitors and long-term residents. 

Why Chantilly is a Great Place to Visit, or Call Home

Chantilly, VA, is a fantastic middle-ground location. It’s close enough to visit or even commute to Washington, but it’s also far enough out of the city to enjoy the open spaces and a more relaxed pace. 

Visitors love:

  • The easy access to major attractions
  • Clean, safe parks
  • Family-friendly activities
  • Short drives to scenic destinations

While residents appreciate:

  • Proximity to Dulles Airport
  • Access to quality schools
  • Walkable parks and trails
  • A strong rental market

If you’re thinking of staying longer, it’s worth exploring Chantilly rentals to see what’s available. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or you’re making a move for your family, there are options for different needs and budgets. Search rental listings to help you find something in your budget, with various property types and sizes available. 

For landlords or small property managers, Chantilly offers steady demand thanks to its convenient location. Using a free property management tool like Rentler makes it simple to manage listings, applications and online payments, without the need for complicated systems.

With a little something for everyone, it’s easy to see why Chantilly, VA has such a huge appeal.

Discover the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center for a Unique Museum Experience

One of the biggest attractions in Chantilly is the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, a part of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. Just a short drive from Dulles Airport, this national museum houses some of the most impressive exhibits in the world. Inside, you’ll find:

  • The Space Shuttle Discovery
  • Various aircraft from across aviation history 
  • A fascinating observation overlooking active runways
  • Child-friendly interactive exhibits

The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is the perfect activity for a rainy or cold day when you want to spend some time indoors. It’s easily accessible thanks to a huge parking lot, and while parking comes at a cost, it’s free to enter the museum itself. 

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or you’re looking for something fun to do that the whole family will enjoy, this is a must-visit attraction. 

Enjoy the Peace of Flatlick Stream Valley Park

Flatlick Stream Valley Park is the ideal place to visit for walks and fresh air in the heart of Chantilly. The park features beautiful tree-lined hiking trails, stream views and the opportunity enjoy some wildlife sightings. You’ll find the park with a mix of visitors, including joggers, families and people looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle. And ideal place to enjoy a morning coffee or a pre-dinner walk, it’s a must-visit spot in Chantilly. 

Keep the Family Entertained with Mini Golf Arcade Games and Indoor Attractions

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll know it can be tricky to keep them entertained! But the good news is, Chantilly has a lot to offer families. You can enjoy fun activities like mini golf and arcade games, keeping the whole family entertained no matter the weather.

Some of the family-friendly activities on offer include:

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a group outing, or just looking for some spontaneous fun, you can find a range of activities to enjoy in Chantilly. 

Learn About the History of Fairfax County and Civil War Sites

While there is plenty of fun to be had in Chantilly, there is also a lot to discover about the area and its Civil War significance. Fairfax County has a rich history, and a visit to some of its Civil War sites will help visitors discover educational exhibits, guided tours and more that provide an insight into life in 19th-century Virginia. 

Chantilly is famous for the Battle of Chantilly, which took place on September 1, 1862. Virginia regularly draws history lovers, and a visit to Chantilly makes for an ideal stop on any history tour.  

Embrace Local Spots like the Treasure Hound Resale Shop and Chantilly Square

Chantilly isn’t only a place to explore major attractions; you can spend hours exploring the local stores to find some hidden gems. The Treasure Hound Resale Shop will delight bargain hunters, thanks to its selection of one-of-a-kind items, books and more. 

For more shopping and restaurants, visitors can head to Chantilly Square, better known as South Riding Market Square, which is ideal for lunch or browsing the stores. If you’re staying in self-catering accommodation, you can find everything you need to make your stay more comfortable. 

Take a Scenic Drive or Hike through Shenandoah National Park

One of the stand-out attractions to enjoy while staying in Chantilly, VA, is a trip to Shenandoah National Park. It’s just a shirt drive away, and is a place to enjoy some beautiful hiking trails, breathtaking drives, and some incredible viewpoints. 

While Shenandoah is a sight to see throughout the year, it is especially stunning during the fall months when the Virginia foliage is abundant. Being able explore sights like this makes living in Chantilly an ongoing adventure, with some amazing weekend experiences within reach. 

See Wonderful Underground Sights at Luray Caverns

Another unforgettable day trip is to Luray Caverns. Another short drive away, the Caverns offer some mesmerizing sights, including:

  • The largest caverns in Eastern America, featuring huge stalactites and stalagmites
  • Guided tours
  • Educational exhibits

But not only will you get to explore the Caverns, but the site also includes:

  • The Car & Carriage Caravan Museum
  • Shenandoah Heritage Village
  • The Garden Maze
  • Toy Town Junction
  • Rope Adventure Park

With something for all the family, this is a unique experience that’s worth a visit during your time in Chantilly. 

Take Day Trips to Explore the Washington Monument, White House and more in Washington, DC

One of the biggest advantages of spending time in Chantilly, VA, is how easy it is to explore Washington, DC. The nation’s capital is located around 25 miles away, which makes it close enough for a day trip, or an evening out on the town, but far enough that you can enjoy the quiet too as needed.

The ideal trip to Washington DC will include the Washington Monument, where you can take in panoramic views of the city from way above the ground. From there, you can walk along the National Mall and visit several national museums, including:

Whether you’re interested in American history, art, science or culture, there’s something of interest for everyone. 

And of course, no trip to Washington, DC would be complete without a visit to the White House. While you will need to book a guided tour in advance, it can still be a memorable experience to see it from the outside. You should also pay a visit to Union Station, where you can choose from a wide range of lunch options, stores and take in the historic architecture. 

If you’d like to continue with the history aspect of your visit, you can find plenty of it in Washington. There’s the National Mall and its memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II memorial, with each one telling an important part of America’s history.

As a busy city, it’s important to plan your visit to Washington carefully. Many visitors from Chantilly will choose to drive, which takes around 45 minutes, or you can take the train, which has some easy links to the center of the city, and beyond. As it’s such a short distance, you can enjoy several hours in Washington, or make multiple visits during your stay.

If you’re thinking of moving to Chantilly, then this proximity to Washington is one of the biggest benefits. You’ll be able to enjoy working in Washington and its world-class attractions, live music venues, cultural events and more, while still enjoying the relaxed life offered by Fairfax County. If it’s balance that you’re looking for, then Chantilly could be the place to find it. 

Indulge in the Best Food and Drinks Spots in Chantilly, VA

Chantilly has some fantastic eating spots, providing a range of options for family-friendly dining, brunch dates and romantic dinner spots. Some of the top restaurants recommended include:

  • Biryani Grill
  • Bourbon Boulevard Stakehouse
  • Izakaya Nana
  • The Capital Grille

You’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes, and cute coffee spots too. And beyond Chantilly, you can venture to nearby towns and cities, including Arlington, Tysons Corner and Leesburg. 

FAQs about Chantilly, VA

What is Chantilly VA known for?

Chantilly VA is best known for the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, which is part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. It houses the Space Shuttle Discovery and hundreds of different aircraft. It’s also known for its proximity to Washington, DC and Dulles Airport, making it convenient for both travel and living.

Is Chantilly, VA, worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy a mix of history, outdoor spaces and access to different attractions. From family-based activities like mini golf to exploring Shenandoah National Park, there is plenty to see in Chantilly. 

How far is Chantilly from Washington, DC?

Chantilly is about 25 miles from downtown Washington, DC. The drive can take 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, and public transport is also regular and accessible. 

Is Chantilly, VA, family-friendly?

Chantilly is great for families, with a variety of things to see and do, as well as some excellent educational options for living. 

Is Chantilly, VA, a good place to live?

If you’re looking to move near Washington or Fairfax County, then Chantilly is a fantastic option for somewhere to live. Not only is there great access to jobs and education, but there is a strong rental demand, helping you find somewhere easily. 

If you’re exploring Chantilly rentals, then Rentler makes it easy. You can search listings with your chosen filters, apply securely and even pay rent online, providing an easy platform for tenants and landlords to manage the process smoothly. 

Anna L.
Anna L.