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McLean is an affluent unincorporated community in Fairfax County, Virginia, on the south bank of the Potomac River just across from Washington, D.C. Named after newspaper publisher John Roll McLean, it is home to many diplomats, members of Congress and officials, and to the headquarters of the Central Intelligence Agency at Langley.
McLean's best-known natural sights line the Potomac. Great Falls Park, run by the National Park Service, has dramatic views of the river crashing through Mather Gorge, while Turkey Run Park, Scott's Run Nature Preserve and the Potomac Heritage Trail offer wooded hikes along the bluffs. The George Washington Memorial Parkway gives a scenic drive along the river.
Families enjoy Clemyjontri Park, a fully accessible playground, and the living-history Claude Moore Colonial Farm. Tysons Corner Center, one of the largest malls on the East Coast, sits next door, and the monuments of Washington are about 20 minutes away.
A National Park Service site where the Potomac River tumbles over a series of jagged rocks into narrow Mather Gorge. Three overlooks give close views of the falls, and trails such as the River Trail follow the cliffs. There is an entrance fee per vehicle, and the lots fill by late morning on weekends.
A wooded Fairfax County preserve where trails lead down a stream valley through hemlocks and wildflowers to a small waterfall where Scott's Run meets the Potomac. The hike is short but steep and rocky in places. Wear good shoes, and do not swim in the river, which has dangerous currents.
A wooded park along the George Washington Memorial Parkway with trails down the bluffs to the Potomac River and the Potomac Heritage Trail. Spring brings bluebells and other wildflowers along the river bottoms. Picnic areas sit near the parking lots, and the trails can be muddy after rain.
A two-acre playground designed so children of all abilities can play together, with rubber surfaces, ramps, swings, a carousel and themed play areas. It is one of the best-known inclusive playgrounds in the country. Admission is free, and weekday mornings are much quieter than weekends.
A living-history farm that shows how a poor tenant family lived in Virginia in the 1770s, with costumed interpreters, a small farmhouse, heritage crops and animals. Seasonal market fairs feature colonial crafts and music. Opening days are limited and seasonal, so check the schedule before visiting.
A small National Park Service site off the George Washington Memorial Parkway preserving the earthworks of a Civil War fort built to defend Washington and the Chain Bridge. A short trail loops through the woods past the walls and cannon. Parking is only reachable from the northbound parkway.
A scenic National Park Service road that follows the Virginia bank of the Potomac River, with several overlooks giving views of the gorge and the Washington skyline. Drive it early on weekends to avoid traffic, and stop at the scenic pull-offs. The paved Mount Vernon Trail runs alongside farther south.
The performing arts theater inside the McLean Community Center, presenting plays, concerts, family shows, films and lectures throughout the year. Tickets are usually affordable, and many family events are free. The center also hosts McLean Day, the community festival held each spring.
One of the largest shopping malls on the East Coast, with about 300 stores, department stores, restaurants, a movie theater and an outdoor plaza. It has its own stop on the Metro Silver Line. Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and use the Metro if you can, as weekend parking is busy.
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