Alexandria
Just south of the City of Alexandria is the portion of Alexandria that is in Fairfax County. This portion consists of seven census-designated places mostly located outside the Capital Beltway including Huntington, Groveton, Fort Hunt, Belle Haven, Hybla Valley, Mt. Vernon and Rose Hill. What these communities have in common are strong public schools, easy access to Washington D.C., natural attractions, shopping and dining options and fascinating history to discover.
On the opposite side of the beltway from the city of Alexandria, the communities of Rose Hill and Huntington are blessed with their own Metro stop (Huntington Station). To the immediate east of Huntington is Belle Haven, with delicious Indian food, a bakery, shopping center, a country club, and the lovely Belle Haven Park bordering the Potomac River and across from National Harbor. With quiet neighborhoods and all the conveniences, living in these areas is like taking a step back in time.
Continuing south is Groveton, which includes Fairfax County’s largest park – Huntley Meadows Park – at 1,500 acres. It is considered some of the best wildlife watching in the Washington metropolitan area and includes beavers, frogs, herons and dragonflies. For a picture of 19th century plantation life, historic Huntley Plantation is a must see for history lovers which hosts special events and “History Mystery Tours.” Groveton also has many fine eating options including Famous Dave’s and Outback Steakhouse.
To the south of Groveton is Hybla Valley, which includes the large Mount Vernon Plaza shopping center. At the southern end of Hybla Valley is the Little Hunting Creek which flows into the Potomac.
Of course, no description of greater Alexandria would be complete without the internationally known Mount Vernon – home to our nation’s first president George Washington. Just outside of the Potomac River, to the south of the gigantic Huntley Meadows Park, residents and tourists can find shopping and nice dining options along Richmond Highway, including Thai, ribs, Korean BBQ, pizza, and Tex-Mex. Of course, Woodlawn manor and Washington’s estate are essential viewing for all patriotic American history lovers.
