Herndon is a bedroom community located near Dulles International Airport and Tyson’s Corner. It is convenient to both the Dulles Toll Road and the Fairfax County Parkway. Herndon was ranked #34 Best Place to Live by CNN Money Magazine. 

Herndon History

In 1688, King Charles II of England granted five million acres of land, known as the Northern Neck, to Thomas Culpeper, second Baron Culpeper of Thoresway. A small portion of this land grant was the land on which Herndon is now sited. Herndon was named in 1858 for American Naval explorer William Herndon.

The first settlement in Herndon, in the early 19th century, was a mill near today’s intersection of Elden and Locust Streets. Herndon saw some Civil War activity with St. Patrick’s Day raid in 1863, led by legendary Confederate Colonel John S. Mosby. After the Civil War, Hernon drew many Northern veterans and their families. The Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Railroad had a major stop in Herndon on the way to the farmland of nearby Loudoun County. The railroad played a significant role in Herndon’s history and economy.

Herndon Real Estate

While there aren’t any high-rise buildings in Herndon, there are plenty of condos, townhomes and detached homes in every price range. Single-family homes are primarily Colonial in style and currently sell between $400,000 and $900,000. A handful of homes are priced over $1 million. Townhouses start under $300,000, with most selling between $400,000 and the mid- $600,000s. Herndon condos mostly sell in the $200,000-$300,000 range.

Herndon Community

The Herndon Green is home to the well-known Herndon Festival, with carnival rides, live entertainment, and more. Friday Night Live! is a free outdoor Friday night summer concert series. Historic downtown Herndon is home to a weekly farmer’s market from April to November. ArtSpace Herndon offers comprehensive arts programming including classes, exhibits, performances and more.

The former W&OD rail line has been converted into a hiking and biking trail that runs for 45 miles and passes through Herndon. The old rail station in Herndon is now a museum and tourist attraction. Residents of Herndon enjoy four Fairfax county parks, plus a public golf course and recreation center. Herndon is also home of the renowned NextStop Theatre Company.

Herndon Favorites

Visit Stone’s Cove Kitbar, an innovative and interactive dining experience. It is a combination kitchen-bar with a large communal table surrounding the kitchen, which places visitors right in the middle of the action. Be sure to check out the Ice House Cafe for its weekend lineup of jazz and innovative menu. Stop by Amphora Bakery to check out its cake and pie of the month!

Want to know what it’s like to live in Herndon? Let’s go on a neighborhood orientation tour!