Herndon, VA

About the City
Geography
Climate and Weather
Landmarks
Transport
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Museums and Art Spaces
Sports and Sporting Legends
Universities and Educational Institutions
Medical Facilities and Healthcare

Herndon is a town in Fairfax County, Virginia, United States, part of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Full Official Name: Herndon, Virginia.
Administrative Role: Herndon is an incorporated town and the largest of the three incorporated towns in Fairfax County . It is governed by an elected mayor and town council .
Country and Region: The town is located in the United States, within Fairfax County, Virginia. It is an integral part of Northern Virginia and the larger Washington, D.C., metropolitan area . This region is known as a major center for the U.S. technology and federal government sectors.

Historical Names and Nicknames

Namesake: The settlement was named Herndon in 1858 in honor of Commander William Lewis Herndon, an American naval explorer and hero. He went down with his ship, the SS Central America, in 1857 after helping to save over 150 of its passengers and crew .
Nickname: Herndon is often referred to as the "Heart of Herndon," a phrase used by the town itself to describe its welcoming, small-town atmosphere and central location within the region .

Date of Foundation and Age

Year of Foundation: The town was officially founded and named in 1858 .
Age: As of 2026, Herndon is 168 years old.
History: The town's early development was spurred by the construction of a mill in the early 19th century and the arrival of the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad in 1859, which connected it to larger markets . After the Civil War, it prospered as a key shipping point for the region's dairy farmers .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Geographic Coordinates: The town is centrally located at 38°58′17″N 77°23′19″W (38.971478, -77.388675) .
Positioning: Herndon is situated in western Fairfax County, approximately 22 miles (35 km) west of downtown Washington, D.C. . It is the town closest to the Washington Dulles International Airport .
Elevation: The center of town sits at an elevation of approximately 361 feet (110 meters) above sea level .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Herndon is a key part of the Dulles Technology Corridor. Its economy is a blend of:

Technology and Business Hub: It is home to the headquarters of several technology companies, including AOL, XO Communications, and Network Solutions, benefiting from its proximity to Dulles Airport .
Administrative Center: As an incorporated town, it serves as an administrative center for its residents.
Residential Community: Herndon maintains a "small town charm" and serves as a historic and walkable bedroom community within the vast Washington, D.C., metropolitan area .

Population and Demographics

Population: According to the 2020 census, the population of Herndon is 24,655 .
Size Classification: Herndon is a small town, but it is the largest incorporated town in Fairfax County .
Demographic Features: It is a diverse and rapidly growing community. As of 2022, 41.8% of its residents were born outside the United States. The largest ancestry group is German (8.6%), and a significant portion of the population (37.51%) identifies as Hispanic or Latino .

City's "Business Card" (In a Nutshell)

Herndon offers a unique blend of "small town charm" within the dynamic Washington, D.C., metropolitan area . Visitors and residents are drawn to its historic downtown, the scenic W&OD Trail, and its convenient location as the closest town to the Smithsonian's Udvar-Hazy Center and Dulles International Airport .

Geography

Water Bodies (Nearby)

While no major rivers flow directly through the town center, Herndon is part of the watershed that feeds the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay.

National and Nature Parks (Nearby)

Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park (W&OD Trail): This is the most significant natural and recreational feature for Herndon. The park is a paved hike-and-bike trail that runs through the heart of downtown Herndon, right next to the historic train station. It follows the path of the old railroad that was vital to the town's development and is a major draw for locals and tourists alike .
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: While a museum, this massive facility adjacent to Dulles Airport functions as a vast public space showcasing historic aircraft and spacecraft. Herndon is the closest town to this renowned attraction .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Herndon has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , characterized by warm and humid summers, very cold and snowy winters, and moderately pleasant spring and autumn seasons . The weather is partly cloudy year-round .

Average Temperatures by Month

Hottest Month: July is the warmest, with average daily highs of 86-88°F (30-32°C) and lows around 67-70°F (20-21°C) .
Coldest Month: January is the coldest, with average daily highs near 42°F (4-5°C) and lows around 25-26°F (-4°C) .

Precipitation and Humidity

Average Annual Precipitation: Herndon receives significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging around 53.9 inches (1,368 mm) .
Wettest Month: May is typically the wettest, with an average of 5.5 inches (141 mm) of rain .
Snowfall: Snow is common in winter. February typically sees the most snow, with an average accumulation of around 7 inches . Snowfall is possible from December through March .

Sunny Days and UV Index

Sunny Days: The sunniest and clearest skies are typically from late summer through fall, with September being the clearest month . September and October offer "much of the cloudless sky" .
Daylight: The longest day of the year is around June 21, with nearly 15 hours of daylight .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Herndon for warm-weather outdoor activities are from early June to early July and from early August to late September .

Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up nicely from cool to warm, but this is also the wettest time of year, with April and May seeing frequent rainfall . Nature and trails are at their best.
Summer (June-August): Weather is warm to very hot and humid. July is the hottest month. This is a great time for community events, like Friday Night Live! on the Town Green .
Fall (September-November): This season offers comfortable temperatures, decreasing humidity, and the clearest skies, making it ideal for exploring downtown and the W&OD Trail . November is the driest month .
Winter (December-February): Weather is cold, with occasional snow and ice. This is a quiet time to experience the town's historic charm, but outdoor activities are limited.

Landmarks

[Herndon's Most Famous Landmark: The Old Train Station]

Full Name: Herndon Depot / Old Train Station.
Year Opened: 1857 .
Historical Significance: Built just before the railroad line was completed in 1859, this is one of the oldest buildings in Herndon . It served as a hub for the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad, which transformed the village into a thriving town by shipping out milk and agricultural products and bringing in visitors .
Location: 717 Lynn Street, in the heart of downtown Herndon .
Modern Use: Today, the beautifully preserved station houses the Herndon Historical Society museum and the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center . It is the focal point of the downtown area and a testament to the town's commitment to preserving its heritage.

[Architectural Landmark: The W&OD Caboose]

Full Name: Norfolk Southern Railway Caboose (repainted in W&OD livery).
Year Installed: Originally acquired in 1989 and dedicated to its founder, George Moore, after his death in 2003 .
Historical Significance: While this specific caboose never traveled through Herndon, it has become an iconic and beloved symbol of the town's railroad history . It represents the era of the Washington and Old Dominion Railroad, which was key to the area's development.
Location: Situated on a short section of track next to the Old Train Station and the W&OD Trail .
Interesting Fact: It is a daily destination for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into Herndon's past and a perfect photo opportunity . It serves as a tangible link to the town's identity as a historic railroad hub .

[Historic District: Herndon Historic District]

Full Name: Herndon Historic District.
Date Listed: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991 .
Description: This district encompasses the core of the original town, which maintains a "neighborly, old-fashioned character" despite its suburban surroundings . The area around the Old Train Station features a mix of commercial and residential buildings.
Architectural Features: The commercial buildings mostly date from after a 1917 fire, while the surrounding streets are lined with modest houses built between 1890 and 1920 . This area is a testament to Herndon's evolution from a 19th-century railroad town to a 20th-century bedroom community .

Transport

Main Airports in the City and Region

Full Name: Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
IATA Code: IAD
Distance: The airport is directly adjacent to Herndon, located just east of the town . This makes Herndon the closest town to the airport .
Access: Many hotels in Herndon offer shuttle service to the airport and to the nearby Udvar-Hazy Center . The airport is also accessible via the Metrorail Silver Line.

Other Airports (Alternative)

Full Name: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
IATA Code: DCA
Description: Located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., this airport primarily handles domestic flights and is another major option for travelers. It is accessible via the Metrorail system.

Main Railway Stations

Herndon does not have intercity passenger rail service (Amtrak) within the town limits. However, the town is connected to the Washington, D.C. metro area's regional rail system:

System: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metrorail.
Station: Herndon Metrorail Station on the Silver Line .
Description: This station provides direct access to the regional rail network, connecting Herndon to Tysons, Reston, Washington, D.C., and other suburbs. Local bus services, such as the Fairfax Connector, provide connections from around town to the Metrorail station .

Public Transportation System

Bus Service: The primary bus service is provided by the Fairfax Connector. A key route is the Route 921 Herndon Circulator, which provides daily service connecting the Herndon Metrorail Station, Downtown Herndon, and other local destinations like the Worldgate area . Express buses are also available to connect to Metrorail .

Main Highways and Roads

Several major roads serve Herndon, providing access to the wider region:

Virginia State Route 267 (Dulles Toll Road): A major controlled-access toll road that connects the Dulles Airport area directly to Interstate 495 (the Capital Beltway) and Washington, D.C.
Virginia State Route 28 (Sully Road): A major north-south highway running along the eastern edge of Dulles Airport, connecting to Interstate 66 and other parts of Northern Virginia.
Virginia State Route 606 (Elden Street): The main thoroughfare through the town of Herndon itself, connecting residential areas with the downtown and commercial centers.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Herndon, Virginia, boasts a remarkably diverse culinary scene, a delicious reflection of its community. With over 100 restaurants offering cuisine from nearly 30 cultures, the town is a destination for food lovers .

A Local Favorite: Jimmy’s Famous Wings

While Herndon doesn't have a single centuries-old traditional dish, it has a beloved local icon: the wings at Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern. This classic American tavern, a fixture in downtown Herndon since 1996, has earned the title "King of Wings" from Northern Virginia Magazine and was voted as having the best wings by WTOP . The owner, Jimmy Cirrito, is known for his community spirit, even famously dressing as a chicken to campaign for the title . For locals, a visit to Jimmy’s for wings and a taste of classic Americana is a cherished tradition.

A Hub for Indian Cuisine

Herndon is particularly well-regarded for its excellent Indian restaurants, which have introduced many locals to the cuisine's rich flavors . A standout example is TriState Indian Cuisine, which offers an extensive menu drawing from both North and South Indian traditions .

Signature Dishes: The restaurant is praised for its aromatic and expertly layered biryanis, including Chicken Dum Biryani and Mutton Biryani, featuring tender meat and fragrant rice . Other recommended dishes include Ghee Roast Mutton, Methi Malai Chicken, and the unique appetizer Rajarani Chicken .
Dining Experience: TriState is noted for its modern yet classic Indian ambiance, full bar with a unique selection of Indian malts, and attentive service, making it a popular spot for both fine dining and casual celebrations .

A Vibrant Taco Scene

Reflecting another facet of its diverse food culture, Herndon is home to a thriving taco scene. From authentic street-style taquerias to creative, modern interpretations, there are numerous spots to explore .

Authentic Mexican: For traditional flavors, Tipicos Gloria (482 Elden St) and Taki Tacos (1258 Elden St) are praised for their authentic al pastor and carne asada tacos . Senor Ramon Taqueria in nearby Reston is also a top choice for street-style tacos .
Creative & Modern: Taco Bamba (2415 Centreville Rd) is renowned for its inventive menu and bold flavors, with signature tacos like crispy fish and spicy pork . Stone’s Cove Kitbar (2403 Centreville Rd) offers a more upscale take with highly recommended fish or chicken tacos and a focus on accommodating various dietary needs .
Regional Styles: Anita’s New Mexico Style Mexican Foods (701 Elden St) brings the bold spices and vibrant flavors of New Mexico to Herndon, with specialties like green chile chicken tacos .

Museums and Art Spaces

Herndon’s Community Art Hub: Arts Herndon

The primary cultural destination in Herndon is Arts Herndon, located at 750 Center St. It operates as a multifaceted hub, including the Herndon ArtSpace, which functions as an art gallery, arts lab, and performance space . Arts Herndon focuses on showcasing a wide range of artistic disciplines, including visual arts, media, music, drama, and film .

Exhibitions: The space hosts between 10 and 11 exhibits each year, featuring the works of local, regional, and nationally known artists and performers, ensuring there is always something new to see .
Visit: Entrance to Arts Herndon is free, and there is ample free parking available. It's not just a place to view art; visitors can also purchase works of art and small gifts .

Unique "Tiny Museums": The Free Little Art Galleries (FLAGs)

For a truly unique and community-driven art experience, Herndon participates in the "Free Little Art Gallery" (FLAG) movement. These are weather-proof boxes, inspired by Little Free Libraries, where anyone can take a tiny piece of art and leave one behind .

The Arts Herndon FLAG: One of the most accessible FLAGs is located right outside Arts Herndon, next to the giant LOVE sign at 750 Center St. Due to the steady foot traffic, the art in this "gallery" refreshes almost daily .
How to Participate: The concept is simple: take a piece that speaks to you and leave a new creation for the next person. Pieces range from thumb-sized watercolors and painted rocks to polymer-clay critters and micro-poetry scrolls . This initiative perfectly extends the legacy of public art in the area, making creativity accessible to everyone .

Sports and Sporting Legends

Sports in the Community

While Herndon itself is not home to major professional sports teams or stadiums, its location in Northern Virginia places it within easy reach of the entire Washington, D.C. sports scene. Residents and visitors are avid fans of the region's teams, including:

Washington Commanders (NFL): The professional football team plays at nearby Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.
Washington Nationals (MLB): The capital's Major League Baseball team plays at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
Washington Wizards (NBA) & Washington Capitals (NHL): These teams play at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C.
D.C. United (MLS): The professional soccer team plays at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.

For many in Herndon, the connection to sports is found in community leagues, youth sports programs, and cheering for these major regional teams. The area also offers numerous parks and trails for residents to engage in sports and outdoor activities themselves.

Universities and Educational Institutions

Higher Education Nearby

Herndon does not have its own university campus, but it is strategically located within a short drive of some of the nation's most prestigious and largest institutions of higher learning. The town's position in the technology corridor of Northern Virginia makes it a convenient home base for students and professionals associated with these schools .

Within a 25-mile radius of Herndon, there are dozens of colleges and universities. Some of the most notable include:

University of Maryland, College Park

Located just 24 miles from Herndon, The University of Maryland (UMD) is the state's flagship public university. It is a major research institution, ranked as one of the top public universities in America, with over 40,000 students . It is particularly renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering, and business.

Johns Hopkins University

Approximately 21 miles from Herndon, in Baltimore, is Johns Hopkins University, frequently ranked among the top 10 universities in the nation . It is world-famous for its research and programs in medicine, public health, and international studies.

Catholic University of America & Howard University

Also within a 20-21 mile radius are two of Washington D.C.'s most prominent private universities: The Catholic University of America and Howard University, a historically black university with a rich legacy .

George Mason University

While not listed in the provided search results, it is important to note that George Mason University (GMU) , Virginia's largest public research university, has its main campus in nearby Fairfax, just a short drive from Herndon. GMU is a key educational and economic engine for the entire region, with strong programs in law, economics, and the arts.

Medical Facilities and Healthcare

Specialized Pediatric Care

Herndon is home to a dedicated facility for children's medical needs.

PM Pediatric Urgent Care, Herndon VA

Located at 905 Herndon Pkwy, PM Pediatric Urgent Care is a specialized urgent care center that focuses exclusively on infants, children, and adolescents . This clinic is designed to be a child-friendly alternative to a general urgent care or emergency room for non-life-threatening conditions. It has a high overall patient rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, with particular praise for the cleanliness of the facility . Patients frequently mention the efficient service and the sweet, patient nature of the staff in their reviews . The clinic accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, TRICARE, and United Healthcare .

Community Health Center

For comprehensive primary care services, residents have access to a community health center.

HealthWorks for Northern Virginia

The HealthWorks for Northern Virginia Community Health Center is located at 1141 Elden Street, Third Floor, in Herndon . As a nonprofit organization, it provides comprehensive primary health care to anyone seeking care, regardless of their ability to pay, serving as a vital resource for the community .

Local Pediatricians

In addition to urgent care, Herndon and its immediate surroundings have numerous practicing pediatricians. For example, Dr. Ernest Quaye is a pediatrician with more than 20 years of experience practicing at 464 Herndon Pkwy, and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Inova Fair Oaks Hospital .

Major Regional Hospitals

For more complex medical needs, Herndon is situated near several major hospital systems. While not within the town limits, Inova Fairfax Hospital and Inova Fair Oaks Hospital are the primary full-service hospitals for the region, providing advanced medical and surgical care, including specialized pediatric services . These hospitals serve as the main referral centers for the community.