Welcome to Great Falls
Lovely estates in picturesque and idyllic surroundings
Great Falls is the quintessential and idyllic American setting. It’s known for the beautiful Great Falls National Park along the Potomac River, and it’s also cherished for its history. Farmers began to settle the area in the late 1700’s when it was known as Forestville. None other than President George Washington himself commissioned the building of Patowmack Canal around the falls, the remains of which can still be seen. If you’re looking for American roots, you’ve come to the right place.
Today, Great Falls is a desirable suburb of Washington, D.C., located just 15 miles from the nation’s capital. As such, many diplomats and politicians currently live in town. It’s a vibrant area filled with restaurants, bistros, pubs, and cafes. Residents also enjoy parks and nature preserves for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor concerts and festivals. The older architecture includes Greek Revival, Colonial, and Tudor styles on large, beautiful estates. There are also modest homes, upscale condominiums, and townhouses.
What to Love
Local Lifestyle
In the center of town, you’ll find the heart of Great Falls, known as the Great Falls Village Centre. In addition to spas, gyms, and a dance school, the locals also go there for healthcare, haircuts, cafes, and restaurants. The boutique, Vivid Chill, specializes in ethically made and eco-friendly clothing and accessories for women and children.
While at the Great Falls Village Centre, residents pick up the best of fresh local produce in spring and summer at the Great Falls Farmers Market, and afterward, you might very well find them jamming at the summer Concerts on the Green.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
With a zip code this exclusive, you can expect top-tier shopping and dining experiences in Great Falls. Award-winning culinary masterpieces are found at L’Auberge Chez François where you can try Le Homard du Maine. Over at the BRX American Bistro, locals enjoy a comfortable setting with good food and wine, and the Masala Chicken Kebabs are recommended.
For downhome American food, head straight over to Mookie’s BBQ for the Smoked Prime Rib. At The Old Firestation #3, you will find good Italian and Greek casual dining. You can also relax and hang out at open mic night at The Old Brogue Irish Pub, and yes, they do make a great Reuben.
As the Great Falls Village Centre is in the center of town, it’s a main hub of activity. Those who love to shop will enjoy its jewelry shop as well as fine arts and home décor shops. The nearby town of McLean has Tysons Corner Center and Tysons Galleria. All of the big-name designers are there, including clothing, fragrance and beauty products, high-end accessories, eyewear, footwear, fine jewelry, sportswear, spas, and fine art galleries.
Things to Do
Golf lovers will find a veritable paradise at River Bend Club with a beautiful golf course, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a clubhouse.
For horseback riding, picnics, and an observatory, The Turner Farm is ideal. If you love antique and exotic cars, there are the unique Katie’s Cars and Coffee community event held every Saturday at Katie’s Coffee House.
Schools