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13 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Northern Virginia—From Someone Who Actually Lives Here

March 31, 2025•3 min read

Let me guess: you think Northern Virginia is just traffic, politics, and overpriced houses.
I hear it all the time.

But as someone who lives here, works here, and helps buyers and sellers make smart moves every single day, I can tell you—NoVA is full of hidden gems 💎.

If you're thinking about buying, selling, or just getting to know the area better, here are a few local facts that might surprise you 👇

1. George Washington Was Basically a NoVA Local

This is a close-up image of George Washington's portrait from the U.S. one-dollar bill, showcasing intricate engraving details.

🏛️ Mount Vernon wasn’t just a presidential retreat—it was home base. Located in Fairfax County, it’s a full estate with walking trails, river views, and deep roots.

2. The Pentagon Has Its Own Zip Code

This aerial photo shows the Pentagon, the five-sided headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense, located in Arlington, Virginia, with Washington, D.C. visible in the backgroun

🏢 Located in Arlington, it’s the largest office building in the world. You can walk from one side to the other in under 7 minutes. (Try that on I-66 😅)

3. Loudoun County is DC’s Wine Country

This vibrant sidewalk display in Loudoun County, Virginia features colorful "LOVE" letters with a large wine cork centerpiece promoting the area as "DC's Wine Country.

🍷 Over 40 wineries and tasting rooms—and some stunning views. For my move-up buyers looking for a little land and a lot of lifestyle, this is worth exploring.

4. Alexandria is Older Than America

This charming street in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia features historic brick row houses and quaint shops, reflecting the area's rich colonial architecture and timeless appeal.

Founded in 1749, Old Town Alexandria is full of cobblestone streets and 18th-century charm. Downsizers love it for the walkability and easy access to everything.

5. Spy Stuff is Kind of a Big Deal

A man wearing a hoodie and gloves is secretly photographing documents in an office, suggesting he's engaged in data theft or corporate espionage.

🕵️‍♀️ Between the CIA, FBI, and all the federal contractors, let’s just say espionage isn’t just for Netflix shows out here.

6. Virginia Still Has Some Strange Laws

Three curious raccoons peer over a wooden surface, their distinctive masked faces and fluffy fur framed by autumn leaves in the background.

😳 Like... you can’t hunt on Sundays (except raccoons). Or tickle women in public. Yep, that’s on the books.

7. Tysons Used to Be a Farm

An old photograph captures a farmer driving a vintage tractor pulling a cart in an open field, with a high-rise building under construction in the background, blending rural life with emerging urban development.

🌾 Hard to believe when you see the high-rises and shopping malls, but Tysons started as Peach Grove. Now it’s a hub for move-up buyers looking for modern living and Metro access 🚇.

8. Civil War History Runs Deep

A historic Civil War-era cannon sits in a peaceful, grassy field bordered by a stone wall, with wooded hills in the background, evoking a sense of American heritage and history.

📜 From the Battle of Bull Run in Manassas to markers throughout Arlington and Fairfax, this region holds stories at nearly every corner.
💡 Sellers—this kind of historical significance can add unique value to your home.

9. Tech Is Booming Here

This image showcases Amazon’s HQ2 in Arlington, Virginia—modern glass towers surrounded by green public spaces, symbolizing Northern Virginia’s rise as a major tech and innovation hub.

💻 With Amazon HQ2 in Arlington and a growing startup scene in Fairfax and Loudoun, this is a smart place to invest. Buyers looking for long-term ROI? You’re in the right spot.

10. NoVA is Incredibly Diverse

This photo captures a quiet, charming downtown street lined with small local businesses and boutiques, reflecting classic small-town Americana under a bright blue sky.

🌍 Walk into any grocery store in Annandale or restaurant in Fairfax and you’ll see what I mean. That cultural diversity makes this area feel like home to so many different people.

11. Celebrities Love It Too

The image shows two well-known individuals side by side, one a woman with long wavy dark hair wearing a black and pink outfit, and the other a man with long hair playing a blue electric guitar on stage.

🎤 From Dave Grohl to Sandra Bullock, Northern Virginia has had its fair share of famous residents. Not that we’re bragging. 😉

12. There’s a Library That Looks Like a Giant Book

The image shows a brightly lit library interior with rows of white bookshelves filled with neatly organized books.

📚 The George Mason Regional Library in Annandale has a panel that looks like a massive bookshelf. If you have kids or just love a quirky photo op, it’s worth a drive-by.

13. Clifton Is Home to the Bunny Man

The image shows a small, dimly lit tunnel under a bridge at night with a narrow road leading through it, surrounded by trees and road signs including a "Yield" and "No Parking" sign.

🐰 Fairfax County’s own urban legend. Ask any local about the Bunny Man Bridge, and they’ll have a story. Great for Halloween—or avoiding altogether if you're easily spooked 👻.

Thinking of Moving Into or Around Northern Virginia?

Whether you're a move-up buyer needing more space 🏡,a seller ready to simplify 📉, or someone trying to make a smart move without overspending 💸, I can help you make sense of the market—without the stress.

Want more insights like this on your neighborhood?
📞 Call or text me at 571-601-2232
💬 Or connect with me at MoveMeInVA.com

Let’s make All The Right Moves

GG Sfreddo

GG Sfreddo is a highly experienced Real Estate broker with over 20 years in the industry, recognized as a top agent known for innovative strategies to help clients buy and sell properties seamlessly. With expertise in market trends, negotiation, and personalized service, GG has built a reputation for excellence, earning consistent 5-star reviews and a loyal base of satisfied customers. Dedicated to delivering results with integrity and professionalism, GG ensures every client’s real estate journey is successful and stress-free.

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