🎿 Want winter fun without the long drive? The region’s biggest tubing park is now open, and it’s way more than just a hill. Full guide inside.

🏗️ Reston is about to look completely different. From new homes and office towers to a long-awaited performing arts center and green park networks, a bold transformation is underway (and it just got the green light).

🏕️ Ever stayed somewhere with secret doors, an underground cabin, or a 20x40 indoor pool? These five Airbnbs near NoVA don’t even feel real, but they’re all within a two-hour drive.

If you want a winter activity without the long mountain drive, Snow Riders in Harpers Ferry is now open and only about an hour from most of Northern Virginia, DC, and Baltimore.

Snow Riders – Harpers Ferry
19790 Independence St, Knoxville, MD
• 45 minutes from Loudoun
• About 1 hour from Fairfax, Prince William, and DC
Official site: snowriders.com

This is the longest tubing hill on the East Coast:
• 900-foot hill
• Up to 12 lanes
• Magic Carpet lift
• 1.5-hour unlimited rides

Advanced snowmaking means they can stay fully open even when NoVA has warm spells.

After tubing, head to the rest area:
• The Choco Trailer for hot chocolate and treats
• Alstadt’s Ale House for burgers, apps, and drinks
Indoor and outdoor seating overlook the hill.

Verify hours online: https://snowriders.com/

Your ticket includes your tube, Magic Carpet access, unlimited rides, and the post-tubing rest area.
Night and holiday spots sell out quickly.
Book here: snowriders.com

Close, easy, family-friendly, fun at night, works in warm weather, and doesn’t require full-day planning.

It’s one of the simplest winter getaways you can do this season.

Are you planning to go? CHECK MY FULL GUIDE→

Driving the news: Reston Town Center is poised for a major evolution. Fairfax County's Planning Commission unanimously backed the next stage of RTC Next, a sweeping 33-acre redevelopment led by BXP.

The plan now heads to the Board of Supervisors on October 28.

Details: The second phase of RTC Next transforms the area east of Visionary Way into a dense, walkable hub.

Plans include:

Why it matters: This is a long-term investment in what makes Reston thrive: walkability, transit access, and cultural energy. With more homes, jobs, and public amenities, the project supports Reston’s growth without sacrificing livability.

For locals, this means higher property value resilience, a richer community experience, and a walkable lifestyle that’s increasingly in demand. It’s a win for Fairfax County’s economy and for homebuyers looking to plant roots in a thriving, future-ready neighborhood.

What’s next: If the Board gives final approval on October 28, construction can proceed after site plans and permits are secured.

The buildout will take years, but the groundwork for Reston’s future is already in motion.

🛤️ Browse Homes Near Reston Town Center

📦 Moving to NoVA? Download My Free Relocation Guide

Are you excited?! CHECK MORE DETAILS→

If you're considering a move or simply want to make sure your retirement is secure, this video is packed with key insights. Whether you're looking for affordable retirement communities or planning to enjoy your golden years near family, this breakdown will help you make the smartest financial decision for your future.

Looking for a quick escape without hopping on a plane? These five stays near Fairfax bring secret doors, underground cabins, luxury yurts, and indoor pools you won’t believe are real.

• Book early: Viral listings fill up 3–5 months ahead on weekends.
• 4WD? Only needed in winter for mountain properties.
• Pet-friendly? Most allow dogs, but rules vary.
• Wi-Fi? Usually yes, but speeds can be slower in the mountains.
• Food delivery? Don’t count on it. Stop in Front Royal, Luray, or Purcellville first.

Thinking about owning a mountain getaway or investing in a short-term rental?
Explore homes near these stays: Front Royal Homes for Sale

Wondering which is the best for you? CHECK MY FULL REVIEW→

The market’s holding steady with a median sale price around $675K, up 12% year-over-year. Homes are taking about 69 days to sell, and the sale-to-list ratio is 98.3%, still a sign of solid demand.

For Buyers: With listings staying active a bit longer, there’s room to negotiate, especially on homes that have been sitting for a few weeks. Still, desirable properties move fast, so be ready with pre-approval.

For Sellers: Price strategically and stay flexible. Demand remains strong, but buyers have options. Well-staged, accurately priced homes are the ones selling quickest.