Summer is right around the corner, and for those daydreaming about warmer weather, we have a new trend to try: sip and stroll. It’s where shoppers grab cocktails from their favorite restaurants and either wander around the venue or shop at their favorite retailers. Here are some of the NoVA shopping malls and districts where you can sip and stroll this summer.
Fairfax Corner
On a beautiful day, make plans to wander around Fairfax Corner. Shoppers order drinks at California Pizza Kitchen, Crafthouse, P.F. Chang’s, and Uncle Julio’s (try a refreshing swirl margarita!). The to-go cocktails may be taken into designated stores and across the plaza. 4100 Monument Corner Dr., Fairfax
Mosaic District
A day shopping at Mosaic can be made even better with a Havana Boulevard or a Cesar’s Espresso Martini in hand. Shoppers can roam the entire property, minus the parking garages, with their drinks. There are currently 14 participating restaurants, including Kirby Club, Colada Shop, and Caboose Brewing Co. 2905 District Ave., Fairfax
The Village at Shirlington
Enjoy a summer stroll around Arlington as you imbibe at the outdoor entertainment district. Order your drink from one of nine different restaurants and bars before you take in the summer sun. If the heat gets to be too much, visit Adara Spa, Hardwood Artisans, or Dogma Bakery to take your drink inside and cool off. 4280 Campbell Ave., Arlington
Tysons Corner Center
For those days when it’s raining or too hot, head inside to enjoy a drink at Tysons Corner Center. The latest to join the sip and stroll trend, it’s the first indoor DMV shopping center to allow public cocktail consumption. Grab a drink at 10 different restaurants and shop at over 80 different stores with your pomegranate mule or pinot grigio in tow. 1961 Chain Bridge Rd., Tysons
Village at Leesburg
The Drink in the Good Life program permits visitors to explore the outdoor shopping center, shop in select stores, and enjoy events out on the plaza while stopping at one of the 10 eateries to refill their adult beverages throughout the day. 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg
Water Park
If you haven’t made your way to National Landing, you’ll want to now. Water Park, the outdoor dining hall opened last October, has been designated a sip and stroll zone. Choose a drink from one of 11 kiosks and restaurants and explore the area or listen to Fridays at the Fountain, the venue’s summer live music series. 1601 Crystal Dr., Arlington
Feature image of Mosaic District courtesy Edens
This story originally ran in our May issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
