Updated December 8, 2022. Now that the holiday season is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to get out and about to shop around the area. Here are five of Northern Virginia’s best main streets and shopping streets perfect for everyone with the urge to go on a major shopping spree.
Historic Manassas
If you’re looking for a collection of fun, quirky shops, Historic Downtown Manassas doesn’t disappoint. There’s the “Antiques & Collectibles Boutique,” full of lots of interesting vintage items. If you’re looking for some nostalgia, Popcorn Monkey on the corner of Center and Main Streets sells gourmet popcorn, soda, fudge, retro candy, and more. There are also jewelers, art supplies shops, and when you’re tired of shopping, plenty of dining (Public House Kitchen and Brewery is particularly delicious!).
Rosslyn’s Wilson Boulevard (and surrounding streets)
Wilson Boulevard in Rosslyn has lots of shopping options for all needs. Haute Papier Collections sells stationery, gift tags, vintage stamps, and lots more for lovers of all things snail mail. Twin Towers Florist is family-owned and operated, perfect for grabbing the perfect holiday bouquet. If you have time for some self-care, PAINT Nail Bar is Rosslyn’s newest luxury non-toxic nail salon. There are lots of places to grab a quick bite or a cup of coffee too, like the local chains &pizza and Compass Coffee.
Old Town Alexandria’s King Street
King Street in Alexandria boasts the biggest collection of independent boutiques in the DC region. If you’re a reader, you’ll want to pop into Old Town Books. It’s refreshing to see a bookstore that is thriving! For regular Carrie Bradshaws (aka shoe lovers), stop by The Shoe Hive. The amount of designer shoes in the boutique includes brands like Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Sam Edelman, Kate Spade, and more. If you’re looking for cocktail and evening gowns for women of all ages, An American in Paris is a must-visit. The traditional French boutique has been in Old Town for over 20 years.
Reston Town Center
Reston Town Center originated in 1990 with the now iconic Mercury Fountain at its core. Three years later, an open-air glass pavilion was added and today, the center now offers over 50 retailers, 35 restaurants, and a movie theater. Shopping at Reston Town Center includes a lot of national chains for all tastes, including Anthropologie, Sephora, Lululemon, J. Crew, and more. The restaurants in Reston Town Center include popular DMV area chain Ted’s Bulletin.
Maple Ave., Vienna (and surrounding streets)
Spend an afternoon along Maple Street in Vienna, VA to “shop ‘til you drop.” The indie bookstore Bard’s Alley is a great place to discover new favorite authors and books. Continue your indie streak with Vienna Music Exchange, a local record store that has the best selection of metal in the Virginia and DC area. They also house lots of punk and rock LPs. Crafty individuals will be pleased to know a Michael’s is along Maple Ave. and beauty lovers — there’s a Sally Beauty Supply just next door!
Feature image by Evan Michio for Visit Alexandria
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