What to Do in Dulles, VA
What to Do in Dulles, VADulles, Virginia, is a suburban area located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. While it’s primarily known for its proximity to Dulles International Airport and the surrounding corporate and tech hubs, there are several activities and attractions you can enjoy in and around Dulles:
- Visit the Udvar-Hazy Center: Part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, this museum is located near Dulles International Airport and features an incredible collection of aircraft and space artifacts, including the Space Shuttle Discovery.
- Shop at Dulles Town Center: This shopping mall offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a convenient place to spend a day shopping and dining.
- Take a Winery Tour: The Northern Virginia region is known for its wineries. Consider visiting nearby wineries such as Stone Tower Winery or 868 Estate Vineyards for tastings and scenic views.
- Explore the Great Falls Park: A short drive from Dulles, Great Falls Park is a beautiful natural area along the Potomac River. You can hike, picnic, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the falls.
- Golfing: Dulles is home to several golf courses, including the 1757 Golf Club, which offers a challenging course and scenic surroundings.
Algonkian Regional Park: Located along the Potomac River, this park provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, fishing, and boating. - Dulles Expo Center: Check the calendar for events at the Dulles Expo Center, which hosts a variety of trade shows, conventions, and exhibitions throughout the year.
- Cultural Activities: While Dulles itself doesn’t have a thriving arts scene, you can explore cultural events, art galleries, and theaters in nearby areas like Reston, Herndon, and Leesburg.
- Dining: There are numerous restaurants in the Dulles area, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. You can find a variety of cuisines to suit your tastes.
- Biking: The Washington & Old Dominion Trail (W&OD Trail) is a popular biking and walking trail that stretches through the area, offering scenic views and outdoor exercise opportunities.
- Historic Sites: Consider exploring nearby historic sites such as Oatlands Historic House and Gardens or Sully Historic Site for a glimpse into the region’s history.
- Nightlife: While Dulles itself may not have a bustling nightlife, nearby areas like Reston and Tysons Corner offer bars, clubs, and live music venues for evening entertainment.
- Day Trip to Washington, D.C.: Dulles is conveniently located near the nation’s capital. You can take a day trip to explore the numerous museums, monuments, and historic sites in Washington, D.C., which is about a 30-40 minute drive away.
Dulles serves as a gateway to both the natural beauty of Northern Virginia and the cultural attractions of Washington, D.C., so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from when planning your activities in the area.
Where to Stay Near Dulles International Airport
Where to Stay Near Dulles International AirportDulles International Airport (IAD) is located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, and there are several luxury hotels within close proximity to the airport. These upscale accommodations offer convenient access to both the airport and various attractions in the area. Here are some luxury hotels near Dulles International Airport:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner: Situated in nearby McLean, Virginia, this luxurious hotel is known for its elegant rooms, impeccable service, and dining options. It’s about a 20-25 minute drive from Dulles International Airport.
- The Westin Washington Dulles Airport: Located just a short shuttle ride from the airport, this upscale hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant on-site.
- Hyatt Regency Dulles: This modern hotel is only a few minutes from the airport and features spacious rooms, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a free shuttle service to Dulles International Airport.
- Lansdowne Resort and Spa: Located a bit farther from the airport in Leesburg, Virginia, this resort offers luxurious accommodations, a spa, golf course, and beautiful grounds. It’s approximately a 30-35 minute drive from the airport.
- The National Conference Center: Situated in Lansdowne, Virginia, this conference center also offers upscale accommodations, meeting facilities, and ample amenities. It’s about a 30-35 minute drive from Dulles International Airport.
- Hilton Washington Dulles Airport: This upscale hotel is located near the airport and provides comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a complimentary airport shuttle service.
- Sheraton Herndon Dulles Airport Hotel: Just a short drive from Dulles International Airport, this Sheraton hotel offers contemporary rooms, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
- Crowne Plaza Dulles Airport: Located close to the airport, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a free airport shuttle service.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Dulles Airport: This all-suite hotel is conveniently located near the airport and provides spacious accommodations, a complimentary breakfast, and an airport shuttle.
Where to Eat Near Dulles International Airport
Where to Eat Near Dulles International AirportDulles International Airport (IAD) is located in the Northern Virginia suburbs, and there are several upscale dining options within a short driving distance. Here are some upscale restaurants near Dulles International Airport where you can enjoy fine dining:
- Eddie Merlot’s Prime Aged Beef & Seafood: This steakhouse in Ashburn, Virginia, offers high-quality steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list. It’s known for its elegant atmosphere and attentive service. Eddie Merlot’s is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from the airport.
- The Capital Grille: Situated in Tysons Corner, Virginia, The Capital Grille is a renowned upscale steakhouse with a focus on dry-aged steaks, seafood, and an impressive wine selection. It’s about a 25-30 minute drive from Dulles Airport.
- Mokomandy: Located in Sterling, Virginia, Mokomandy is a unique restaurant that combines Cajun and Korean flavors to create a fusion dining experience. It’s known for its creative cuisine and upscale atmosphere, and it’s roughly a 15-20 minute drive from the airport.
- L’Auberge Chez François: Found in Great Falls, Virginia, this classic French restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on traditional Alsatian cuisine. It’s approximately a 25-30 minute drive from Dulles International Airport.
- The Conche: Situated in Leesburg, Virginia, this upscale restaurant features contemporary American cuisine with a chocolate-inspired twist. It’s known for its elegant atmosphere and creative dishes. The restaurant is about a 20-25 minute drive from the airport.
- Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant: Located in Ashburn, Virginia, this restaurant offers a combination of upscale dining and wine tasting. They have a diverse menu that pairs well with their in-house wines. It’s approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Dulles International Airport.
- Morton’s The Steakhouse: Situated in Reston, Virginia, Morton’s is a well-known upscale steakhouse chain offering a variety of prime-aged steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list. It’s about a 15-20 minute drive from the airport.
- Founding Farmers: Found in Reston, Virginia, this farm-to-table restaurant offers a diverse menu with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. It’s known for its upscale-casual atmosphere and creative dishes. It’s approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Dulles Airport.
Please note that reservations are highly recommended for upscale restaurants, especially during peak dining hours. Additionally, restaurant hours and availability may vary, so it’s a good idea to check with the restaurant directly or visit their websites for the latest information.
Washington DC Quick Info
Country: USA
Area
68.34 sq mi (177.0 km2)
Coordinates 38°54′17″N 77°00′59″W
Population
702,445 (2018 est)
Density: 11,367/sq mi (4,389/km2)
Time zone Eastern
Eastern (EST) (UTC-5)
| FAA Identifier: | IAD |
| Lat/Long: | 38-56-50.8000N 077-27-35.8000W 38-56.846667N 077-27.596667W 38.9474444,-77.4599444 (estimated) |
| Elevation: | 313 ft. / 95.4 m (surveyed) |
| Variation: | 10W (2000) |
| From city: | 20 miles W of WASHINGTON, DC |
| Time zone: | UTC -4 (UTC -5 during Standard Time) |
| Zip code: | 20166 |
| Dimensions: | 11500 x 150 ft. / 3505 x 46 m | ||
| Surface: | concrete/grooved, in good condition | ||
| Weight bearing capacity: | PCN 81 /R/C/W/T | ||
| Single wheel: | 200.0 | ||
| Double wheel: | 250.0 | ||
| Double tandem: | 450.0 | ||
| Dual double tandem: | 875.0 | ||
| Runway edge lights: | high intensity | ||
| RUNWAY 1C | RUNWAY 19C | ||
| Latitude: | 38-56.343987N | 38-58.238443N | |
| Longitude: | 077-27.586652W | 077-27.559087W | |
| Elevation: | 286.1 ft. | 268.5 ft. | |
| Traffic pattern: | left | left | |
| Runway heading: | 011 magnetic, 001 true | 191 magnetic, 181 true | |
| Declared distances: | TORA:11500 TODA:11500 ASDA:11500 LDA:11500 | TORA:11500 TODA:11500 ASDA:11500 LDA:11089 | |
| Markings: | precision, in good condition | precision, in good condition | |
| RVR equipment: | touchdown, midfield, rollout | touchdown, midfield, rollout | |
| Visual slope indicator: | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) | 4-light PAPI on right (3.00 degrees glide path) | |
| Approach lights: | MALSR: 1,400 foot medium intensity approach lighting system with runway alignment indicator lights | ALSF2: standard 2,400 foot high intensity approach lighting system with centerline sequenced flashers (category II or III) | |
| Centerline lights: | yes | yes | |
| Touchdown point: | yes, lighted | yes, lighted | |
| Instrument approach: | ILS | ILS | |
| Dimensions: | 11500 x 150 ft. / 3505 x 46 m | |
| Surface: | concrete/grooved, in good condition | |
| Weight bearing capacity: | PCN 81 /R/C/W/T | |
| Single wheel: | 200.0 | |
| Double wheel: | 250.0 | |
| Double tandem: | 450.0 | |
| Dual double tandem: | 875.0 | |
| Runway edge lights: | high intensity | |
| RUNWAY 1R | RUNWAY 19L | |
| Latitude: | 38-55.425433N | 38-57.319750N |
| Longitude: | 077-26.187033W | 077-26.158767W |
| Elevation: | 311.7 ft. | 293.2 ft. |
| Traffic pattern: | left | left |
| Runway heading: | 011 magnetic, 001 true | 191 magnetic, 181 true |
| Declared distances: | TORA:11500 TODA:11500 ASDA:11500 LDA:11500 | TORA:11500 TODA:11500 ASDA:11500 LDA:11500 |
| Markings: | precision, in good condition | precision, in good condition |
| Visual slope indicator: | 4-light PAPI on right (3.00 degrees glide path) | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path |
| RVR equipment: | touchdown, midfield, rollout | touchdown, midfield, rollout |
| Approach lights: | ALSF2: standard 2,400 foot high intensity approach lighting system with centerline sequenced flashers (category II or III) | MALSR: 1,400 foot medium intensity approach lighting system with runway alignment indicator lights |
| Centerline lights: | yes | yes |
| Touchdown point: | yes, lighted | yes, no lights |
| Instrument approach: | ILS/DME | ILS/DME |
| Obstructions: | none | 38 ft. pole, 1900 ft. from runway, 720 ft. right of centerline, 44:1 slope to clear |
| Dimensions: | 10501 x 150 ft. / 3201 x 46 m | |
| Surface: | concrete/grooved, in good condition | |
| Weight bearing capacity: | PCN 81 /R/C/W/T | |
| Single wheel: | 200.0 | |
| Double wheel: | 250.0 | |
| Double tandem: | 450.0 | |
| Dual double tandem: | 875.0 | |
| Runway edge lights: | high intensity | |
| RUNWAY 12 | RUNWAY 30 | |
| Latitude: | 38-56.016617N | 36-05.914670N |
| Longitude: | 077-29.426650W | 077-27.353883W |
| Elevation: | 309.8 ft. | 287.8 ft. |
| Traffic pattern: | left | left |
| Runway heading: | 121 magnetic, 111 true | 301 magnetic, 291 true |
| Declared distances: | TORA:10501 TODA:10501 ASDA:10501 LDA:10501 | TORA:10501 TODA:10501 ASDA:10501 LDA:10501 |
| Markings: | precision, in good condition | precision, in good condition |
| RVR equipment: | touchdown, rollout | touchdown, rollout |
| Visual slope indicator: | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) |
| Approach lights: | MALSR: 1,400 foot medium intensity approach lighting system with runway alignment indicator lights | |
| Runway end identifier lights: | yes | |
| Centerline lights: | yes | yes |
| Touchdown point: | yes, lighted | yes, no lights |
| Instrument approach: | ILS | |
| Dimensions: | 9400 x 150 ft. / 2865 x 46 m | |
| Surface: | concrete/grooved, in excellent condition | |
| Weight bearing capacity: | PCN 81 /R/C/W/T | |
| Single wheel: | 200.0 | |
| Double wheel: | 250.0 | |
| Double tandem: | 450.0 | |
| Dual double tandem: | 875.0 | |
| Runway edge lights: | high intensity | |
| RUNWAY 1L | RUNWAY 19R | |
| Latitude: | 38-56.698000N | 38-58.246408N |
| Longitude: | 077-28.488585W | 077-28.466375W |
| Elevation: | 296.0 ft. | 276.9 ft. |
| Traffic pattern: | left | left |
| Runway heading | 011 magnetic, 001 true | 191 magnetic, 181 true |
| Declared distances: | TORA:9400 TODA:9400 ASDA:9400 LDA:9400 | TORA:9400 TODA:9400 ASDA:9400 LDA:9400 |
| Markings: | precision, in good condition | precision, in good condition |
| Visual slope indicator: | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) | 4-light PAPI on left (3.00 degrees glide path) |
| RVR equipment: | touchdown, midfield, rollout | touchdown, midfield, rollout |
| Approach lights: | ALSF2: standard 2,400 foot high intensity approach lighting system with centerline sequenced flashers (category II or III) | ALSF2: standard 2,400 foot high intensity approach lighting system with centerline sequenced flashers (category II or III) |
| Centerline lights: | yes | yes |
| Touchdown point: | yes, lighted | yes, lighted |
| Instrument approach: | ILS/DME | ILS/DME |
Other nearby airports with instrument procedures:
- KJYO – Leesburg Executive Airport (9 nm NW)
- KHEF – Manassas Regional Airport/Harry P. Davis Field (14 nm S)
- KGAI – Montgomery County Airpark (19 nm NE)
- KDAA – Davison Army Airfield (19 nm SE)
- 2VG2 – Upperville Airport (19 nm W)
Best Private Jets To Charter To And From Dulles International Airport
Chartering a private jet to and from Dulles International Airport (IAD) offers convenience and flexibility for travelers looking for a premium travel experience. The best private jet to charter will depend on your specific needs, such as the number of passengers, range, and budget. Here are some popular private jets that are often chartered to and from Dulles International Airport:
- Gulfstream G650: The Gulfstream G650 is one of the most luxurious and high-performing private jets available. It can accommodate up to 19 passengers and has an impressive range, making it suitable for long-haul flights.
- Bombardier Global Express: The Bombardier Global Express is known for its spacious and comfortable cabin. It’s capable of flying long distances and is a favorite among business travelers.
- Cessna Citation X: The Citation X is a popular choice for travelers seeking speed and efficiency. It’s one of the fastest private jets in the world and can comfortably accommodate up to 12 passengers.
- Embraer Legacy 600/650: The Embraer Legacy series offers a luxurious cabin, ample seating, and a transcontinental range. It’s often chosen for its comfort and cost-effectiveness.
- Dassault Falcon 7X: The Falcon 7X is known for its three-engine design, which allows for better fuel efficiency and range. It offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin suitable for long journeys.
- Hawker 800XP: The Hawker 800XP is a midsize private jet that offers a comfortable cabin with seating for up to 8 passengers. It’s a cost-effective choice for shorter to medium-range flights.
- Citation Sovereign: The Citation Sovereign is a midsize jet with a spacious cabin and excellent performance. It’s a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers.
- Phenom 300: For smaller groups, the Phenom 300 is a light jet with a stylish and comfortable cabin. It’s well-suited for regional flights.
Most Popular Routes To Dulles International Airport
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is a major hub in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, serving both domestic and international flights. As a prominent airport in the region, it handles a variety of popular routes. Here are some of the most popular routes to and from Dulles International Airport:
Washington Dulles to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): This route connects two major cities on opposite coasts of the United States, serving both business and leisure travelers.
- Washington Dulles to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): Atlanta is a significant hub for connecting flights, and this route facilitates travel to and from the southeastern United States.
- Washington Dulles to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Chicago is another major transportation hub, and this route is frequently used for business and leisure travel between the two cities.
- Washington Dulles to San Francisco International Airport (SFO): This route connects the nation’s capital with Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area, catering to both tech industry and tourism-related travel.
- Washington Dulles to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): The Dulles-Boston route is popular for business travelers and those exploring the historical and cultural attractions of Boston.
- Washington Dulles to Miami International Airport (MIA): This route connects Washington, D.C., with Miami, a gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, making it popular for international travel.
- Washington Dulles to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): Dallas/Fort Worth is a major hub for American Airlines, and this route is frequently used for connecting flights to various destinations.
- Washington Dulles to Denver International Airport (DEN): Denver is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and this route provides access to the Rocky Mountains and nearby ski resorts.
- Washington Dulles to London Heathrow Airport (LHR): This is one of the primary international routes from Dulles, connecting the Washington, D.C. area with London, a major global hub.
- Washington Dulles to Frankfurt Airport (FRA): Frankfurt is a key gateway to Europe, and this route connects the U.S. capital with various European destinations.
- Washington Dulles to Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT): This route facilitates travel between Washington, D.C., and Tokyo, providing access to Japan and connections to other Asian destinations.
- Washington Dulles to Dubai International Airport (DXB): Dubai is a major hub for travelers heading to the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, making this route important for international connections.