Also in Fairfax County is the small, yet exclusive town of Great Falls, home to about 16,000 residents. Lush countryside and stately homes are the hallmarks of this enclave.
Great Falls History
Great Falls can trace its roots back to the 1700s when its first farms were established. In the 1800s, a town and three villages, Dranesville, Colvin Run, Springvale, and Forestville were settled, all of which would later become the current Great Falls community. Also in Great Falls, the Patowmack Canal Company constructed and operated one of the few canals which made the Potomac River navigable to the Ohio River Valley. The community initially called Forestville became Great Falls in 1955.
Great Falls Real Estate
Great Falls real estate is not only among the most expensive in the state, but also the entire country. The median home sales price in Great Falls is approximately $1 million. Median home prices in the highly sought-after Springvale / Deanwood area are over $1.1 million. Other popular neighborhoods within Great Falls real estate include Holly Knoll Circle, Lake Windermere, and Lexington Estates.
The style of Great Falls real estate is mainly Colonial, mid-century modern, contemporary, French provincials, and stately mansions. Multi-acre estates are common. House hunters with more modest budgets will find townhomes and condo buildings in Great Falls as well.
Great Falls Community
Community pride is alive and well in Great Falls! An active civic association sponsors a variety of community events and projects, such as local beautification. The Great Falls community gathers for many special events, including movies and concerts, the 4th of July Parade, “Cars and Coffee,” and a wintertime wine tasting. There’s an annual golf tournament and silent auction which raises money for local schools and community projects.
Great Falls Favorites
Enjoy River Bend Park’s 400+ acres of forest, meadows, ponds, and trails, including a portion of the Potomac Heritage Trail. Take the family to the 1811 Colvin Run Mill & General Store and enjoy a picnic on the beautiful grounds. Great Falls Park is home to one of the country’s first canals, the Great Falls of the Potomac, as well as breathtaking hiking trails along dramatic Mather Gorge. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the kayaking, whitewater rafting, and rock climbing that Great Falls affords.
The River Bend Club offers golf, tennis, swimming, and a host of social activities and dining options. Great Falls Swim & Tennis also offers social events, camps, activities for adults and children plus competitive swim, dive, and tennis teams.
Visit the area’s perhaps best French (and most romantic) restaurant, L’Auberge Chez François, for a date night or special occasion. It’s been a local institution since 1954! For fine Italian cuisine in an elegant setting, try Dante Ristorante, located in the historic and beautifully renovated Leigh House, a Victorian mansion. For a more casual vibe, head over to the Old Brogue Irish Pub.
Shoppers will enjoy exploring Havana Vintage Boutique’s large inventory of high-end consignment items. Adeler Jewelers is well known for its custom-designed jewelry, as well as the owner’s signature collection of bridal and birthstone jewelry. Great Dogs of Great Falls has everything you could possibly need for your four-legged friends.
Want to know more about Great Falls real estate? No problem! Let’s go on a neighborhood orientation tour.
