Urban Community
A Promise and a Legacy, Historic Timeline, Modernism, Photologues, Planned Community Archives, [more…]
Live, Work, Play & Serve in Reston, Virginia
A Planned Community, Center for Industry & Government, Residential Clusters, Mixed-use Space, Our Lakes & Parks, Public Access, Recreational Sculptures, Lake Anne Village, [more…]
Storefront Museum
Volunteer Based Gift shop, Exhibits & Showcases, Handmade Treasures, Local Artist Consignments, [more…]
Reston Historic Trust and Storefront Museum
 
Programs & Activities
 

The Reston Historic Trust (RHT), a community-based non-profit organization, was founded in 1996 to sustain the unique history of the award-winning, innovative, planned community of Reston. The RHT serves the dual role of preserving a sense of community and addressing change. Through displays and programs at the Reston Museum, the RHT is using the past to understand the present and plan for the future. The Reston Museum and Shop, located at Reston’s Lake Anne Village Center, is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. and offers children’s art workshops, walking tours, community exhibits and archives, commemorative bricks, pottery and hand crafts. Public membership in the Reston Historic Trust helps to support the Museum’s programs.


Artists In-Residence Program

[content to come]

[top]

Annual Flower Show

[content to come]

[top]

Children’s Art Workshops
Art is Fun at Reston Museum!
Click on image
Reston artist Pat Macintyre leads free Parent/Child Art Workshops each week starting at 10:00 until noon. No appointment or registration is needed -- just stop in. Come share the fun at the Reston Museum!


Here is the schedule of the art instruction programs this fall 2006:
  • October 7: Wearable wallets
  • October 14: Explore scary architecture as boxes become haunted houses.
  • October 21: Noisemakers for Halloween
  • October 28: Make-a-Monster from an apple with gummy teeth, yarn hair, and wax lips.
  • November 4: Wire sculpture. Drawing in the air to create a critter to use as a centerpiece for the festive meal.
  • November 11: Miss Joyce's Choice
  • November 18: Pom-pom turkeys, with foam feathers and googly eyes.
  • November 25: Get a head start on the Holidays by creating your own cards for friends and family.
  • December 2: Santa Sail-In: Annual tradition of ornament making, seasonal music, and Santa.
  • December 9: Decorate gift boxes. As a special surprise, give more than just the present.
  • December 16: Wish List for the Season: Illustrated letter to Santa.
  • December 23: Last Minute Gifts for the Family.

Free! Make-and-take projects, themed for the seasons.
[top]

Commemorative Bricks
Commemorative Bricks

The Commemorative Bricks project is a fundraising program for the Reston Historic Trust, supporting the community building programs of the Reston Museum and providing a permanent physical statement, or "thumbprint", capturing the history of this unique planned community. The first brick, purchased by the Greater Reston Chamber in honor of 1998-1999 President Phil Tobey, was installed in December 2001. Individuals, families, organizations, churches, schools, parents or children can be honored and remembered for their contributions to and involvement in the Reston Community.

A brick is a wonderful, long-lasting gift, with the added benefit of being a tax-deductible donation to the Museum. Brick order forms are available at the Museum, or you could order by phone.

Bricks are available through the Reston Museum. Personal bricks are available in two sizes. The standard 8" x 4" has 3 lines of engraving with 15 characters in each of the lines and cost $100. 8 X 8 personal bricks have up to 6 lines of 15 characters each and cost $250. Corporate bricks are also available in the 8"x 8" size and cost $450. Logos may be added for an additional charge.

Each brick donor will receive a certificate that can be given to the person honored. Profile from donors describing the honoree is available for view at the Museum. For more information about the Bricks or the Installation Ceremony, call the Reston Museum at 703/709-7700. Or easier still, get an order form online at www.restonmuseum.org . Become a permanent part of Reston's past, present and future - Buy a Brick!

Come take a look--they're in Lake Anne Village Center, near the benches overlooking the boat rentals. Bricks are now on sale for the next installation. The Trust plans to install bricks on a 6-8 month schedule, initially in Lake Anne and then in other village centers.

Click here to Place an Order Now!

[top]

Educational Programs

[content to come]

[top]

Fall Home Tour 2007

Click here for 6th Annual Reston Home Tour Page


Fall Home Tour 2006

5th Annual Reston At Home Tour – A Focus on the Arts
Saturday, October 14, 2006
10 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.


2006 Reston At Home Tour

Enjoy a self-guided tour of five private homes and two landmarks in Reston for a fabulous day of discovery and inspiration!

This year's tour will focus on the arts featuring five, unique private homes of art collectors, artists, and musicians, all open to the public for one special day.

T I C K E T S
$20 in advance; $25 day of tour

The Reston At Home ticket is a treasure of a book with illustrations by Pat Macintyre, history, a map of home locations, and more.

On Sale starting September 21 at:

Reston Museum
Lake Anne Village Center - 703-709-7700

Greater Reston Arts Center
12001 Market Street, Reston Town Center - 703-471-9242

"Midtown" Sales Office
Reston Town Square, Reston Town Center - 703-689-0900

Presented by Reston Historic Trust · All proceeds benefit Reston Museum

E-mail: reston.at.home.tour@gmail.com

Volunteer docents are needed to help host the homes during the Reston At Home tour. Two shifts allow time for volunteers to enjoy the tour with their free tour pass. To register, please visit the Reston Museum at 1639 Washington Plaza at Lake Anne Village Center, or call 703-709-7700 for more information. Volunteer registration forms are also available by e-mail to Kathleen McKee at reston.at.home.tour@gmail.com.

Home Nominations - The Reston House Tour Committee conducts a continuous search for eligible Reston homes for upcoming annual tours. If you know of a home for consideration, please call the Reston Museum, 703-709-7700 and leave a message re: House Tour Nomination, or e-mail reston.at.home.tour@gmail.com.


2006 Reston At Home Tour Profile
(Click on images to see full size illustrations by Pat Macintyre)

The Davis Home
A self-professed "art show junkie" owns this 4,500 square foot North Point home, discerningly filled with stylish color, functional works of art, and fine contemporary paintings and sculpture.

The Davis Home
The Craig Home

The Craig Home
When this long-time Reston resident decided to downsize, she chose one of Reston's newest high-rise condos, The Paramount. The move included the judicious selection of her eclectic collection of art, antiques and contemporary furnishings.

The Inbar Home
Owned by a classical musician, this bright and airy Stratford House condo is enhanced with functional artisan creations and fine paintings and sculpture from around the world - and music of course.

The Inbar Home
The Howard Home

The Howard Home
A custom built lakeside home resplendent with fine art collected over the years, including works by the resident artist. Custom furnishings, an intriguing design, and newly renovated recreational space make this a stunning contemporary home.

The Colwell Home
Each floor of this five story home on Lake Audubon is customized with the owners' fabulous color and design sense, plus a broadcast-ready sound studio. (Hint: this is the home of a renowned radio personality!) An elevator is a glamorous - and desirable - amenity in this home.

The Colwell Home

Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE)
On the Reston At Home Tour, GRACE will be offering complimentary refreshments while visitors enjoy the current gallery exhibition - works by Warren Craghead and Adam Grossi, on display September 29 through October 29. For more information on GRACE, call 703-471-9242 or visit www.restonarts.org.

An ensemble of Reston Community Orchestra (RCO) will be performing at the Greater Reston Arts Center during the Reston At Home Tour for the enjoyment of visitors at the gallery. www.restonchamberorchestra.org
[top]

Fall Home Tour 2005
4th Annual Reston House Tour
"Reston at Home"
Saturday, October 15, 2005
10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Fall Home Tour 2005

Showcasing seven distinctive private homes - the largest tour yet!

Reston Historic Trust will present the 4th Annual "Reston At Home Tour", on Saturday, October 15, 2005. Five unique, privately owned homes will be open to the public for a self-conducted tour throughout Reston neighborhoods and clusters -- plus two more very special homes for this exclusive tour. The focus on this year's tour is on "Social Values", leadership and fame, featuring homes owned by Reston luminaries.

“Social Values”

This is the Reston Historic Trust’s largest tour yet, with seven homes open for viewing. The tour covers the second oldest (c.1902) up to one of the very newest (c.2003) homes in Reston. The architecture, interior design, art collections and unique qualities of each are extraordinary and inspiring. The owners of these homes all exemplify the important ideals that were eminent in building this community – social values.

The Howell Home – North Point
Virginia Senator Janet Howell and husband, Hunt, are long-time Restonians. Their bright, contemporary home is their fifth home in Reston. Janet has been highly active in the community since her beginnings here. She was the major drive in fulfilling a need, the establishment of the Embry Rucker Shelter, which is also included on the Reston At Home tour this year.

The Jones Home – North Point
Owners Suzi and Jim Jones are well known for their service to the community of Reston. Their lovely, art and light-filled home overlooks a breathtaking view of their surroundings on the lake.

The Lyons Home – Lake Anne vicinity
The Lyons have found their ideal ‘downsize’ location in this uniquely ‘detached’ home. Mary Sue has recently retired from her career, which included setting up Reston’s first homeless shelter for winter at the police station.

The Plum Home – South Lakes
Virginia State Delegate Ken Plum and his wife, Jane, are proud to make Reston their home. Their comfort in this community is embodied in their Williamsburg-style home, in which they have completed some interesting renovation projects.

The Dunn Home – South Reston
This beautiful, one-of-a-kind home was built just 2 years ago. Situated amongst the trees, this home was designed in complement to its natural surroundings, and for owners Helen and Ron to enjoy every bit of it.

Exclusive viewings of two Reston landmarks:

Wiehle Manor House
Built in 1902 by Dr. Max Wiehle, this mansion is also known locally as the A. Smith Bowman estate, of Virginia Gentleman fame. Dr. Wiehle was the first to develop a town here in what is now Reston. Spatium Development has high regard for this property’s original beauty and architecture, and is making plans for its future.

Embry Rucker Shelter – Reston Urban Core
Named for a Reston icon, this shelter serves as a temporary residence for those with the unfortunate circumstances of having no home. This community building, operated by Reston Interfaith, is not normally open to the general public. It’s importance as a social service, however, is representative of the pioneering for which this community is renowned.


Tickets, $20 in advance, are available now at the Reston Museum at Lake Anne Village Center. Tickets will also be sold at Small Change and at the Reston Regional Library on October 1st and 8th from 10am -2pm. Telephone ticket orders will be accepted on the "Reston At Home" hotline, open from August 15 until October 14, at 703-860-1000.

On tour day, tickets are $25. Price includes the "Reston At Home" booklet with map, history, and illustrations by Pat Macintyre, plus refreshments during the tour. All proceeds from "Reston At Home" benefit the Reston Museum.

Volunteers are needed to help host the homes during the tour. Be a part of Reston history by volunteering as a docent for the Reston At Home Tour. There are two half-day shifts, and all docents receive a free ticket to enjoy the entire tour. This is a fun activity for a group of friends, and/or for making new friends in your community. Orientation is provided. Must be over 16 years old. To register, please visit the Reston Museum at 1639 Washington Plaza at Lake Anne Village Center, or call 703-709-7700 for more information. Volunteer registration forms are also available by contacting kmckee22@comcast.net or by visiting www.backfence.com.

Future Home Nominations - The Reston House Tour Committee conducts a continuous search for eligible Reston homes for upcoming annual tours. If you know of a home for consideration, please call the Reston Museum, 703-709-7700 and leave a message re: House Tour Nomination. A representative of the House Tour Committee will return your call.

[top]

Founder's Day 2007

4th Annual Reston Founder’s Day
Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 12 noon

Honoring the 93rd birthday of Reston Founder, Robert E. Simon, Jr., VIPs and residents will gather at Lake Anne Plaza for a tribute, and a commemoration of the 2007 brick installment.

For more information, visit the Milestones page.

[top]

Gallery Talks

[content to come]

[top]

Lake Anne Village Center Interactive Map!

[content to come]

[top]

"Members Only" Series

All are welcome. The "Members Only" Series is free to those with paid annual membership, but $15 per session for non-members. Note: Annual membership for the Reston Historic Trust costs $25 for adults; $15 for Seniors/Students; $40 for household.


#1 - A Conversation with Bob Simon
Wednesday, June 29, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum - Lake Anne Village Center
Call 703-709-7700 for reservations
A unique opportunity to chat with Robert E. Simon, Jr., Reston's Founder and an icon in the community. Bob will discuss the past, the present, and his thoughts on the future of Reston.

#2 - "Reston 2015"
Wednesday, July 27, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.
A presentation of future development planned for Reston presented by Joe Ritchey, Principal of Prospective, Inc.

#3 - "Preserving Family Memories"
Wednesday, September 14, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.
Reston Historic Trust will present a program on Preserving Memories, with Angela’s Happy Stamper, on Wednesday, September 14 at 7:00 p.m. Angela Finet will explain and demonstrate a variety of techniques for gathering and preserving personal history – documents, photos, keepsakes, and more. The program will be held at the Reston Museum, 1609 Washington Plaza at Lake Anne Village Center. As part of the Museum’s monthly Members Only Series, this event is free with membership. There is a $15.00 fee for non-members. Call the Reston Museum for a reservation and more information, 703-709-7700.

#4 - "An Evening with Reston Architects"
Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum
1639 Washington Plaza at Lake Anne Village Center
For reservations, call 703-709-7700
Lecture and Presentation -- As part of the monthly Member’s Series, this event is free to members of the Reston Historic Trust. Fee for non-members is $15.00.

#5 - "Workshop on Nature Photography"
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 at 7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum
1639 Washington Plaza at Lake Anne Village Center
For reservations, call 703-709-7700
Noted nature photographer, Charles Veatch, will give a workshop on nature photography. Chuck's book, Nature of Reston, is currently being reprinted, but a copy is available at the museum, as are issues of "Nature's Best" magazine, with a story on Reston's fauna and flora, enhanced by Chuck's photographs.
Lecture and Presentation -- As part of the monthly Member’s Series, this event is free to members of the Reston Historic Trust. Fee for non-members is $15.00.

[top]

Monthly Programs

Reston Museum
Lake Anne Revitalization Visions Program

Wednesday May 2, Tuesday May 8, and Tuesday May 15, 2007

!!! New Dates !!!

To accommodate those who requested a later start time, the sessions will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Three informative presentations over three weeks to cover different aspects of the conceptual visions of Lake Anne Revitalization. Presented by members of the appointed Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) for Lake Anne Revitalization.

[top]


Reston Attic Auction
Wednesday, December 6, 2006 at 5:30 p.m.
Reston Museum

Calling all Restonians and collectors!

Silent Auction begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by a Live Auction at 6:30 p.m., with Phil Tobey as auctioneer. Refreshments will be served.

Up for bid are posters, art, books and unusual Reston-related items - all objects that cannot be archived, but have priceless, nostalgic value. Auction items will be on display for preview at noon on December 6. All auction proceeds will benefit Reston Museum.

Reston Museum is still accepting donations of Reston-related items that may be stowed in anyone's attic, for the auction, or for the archives. For more information, call Reston Museum at 703-709-7700.

This special event is part of Reston Museum's programs, usually held on the 4th Wednesday of each month.

Reston Museum Auction

Click to see auction items:
Auction Dulles Poster | Auction Game of Reston | Auction HotZone Tshirt | Auction Lake Anne photoprint


Black Focus
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum

Panel discussion on 1960's and early residents of Reston, integration in Reston, Civil Rights, and Reston as an open community. Panelists: Cathy Hudgins, Fairfax County Supervisor-Hunter Mill District; Michelle Ellison, Reston youth, and Vern Wingert, on staff with Martin Luther King, Jr., 1965-1967. Moderator: Ellen Graves, Reston resident and activist. Free for Museum members. $15 for non-members. Join the Reston Museum and enjoy all programs for free!

A Performance of Song, Dulcimer and Banjo
Thursday, March 9, 2006
7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum

Ralph Lee Smith and Lea Coryell will perform their unique folk music.

History Comes Alive
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum

A representative from George Mason University's Planned Community Archives will give a presentation on the University's data - over 300,000 pieces - much of it on Reston's early history, and how to link with PCA. Free for members. $15 for non-members.

Founder's Day Discussion Program
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum

A discussion on early Reston design, development and planning, with founder Robert E. Simon, Jr. Free for members. $15 for non-members.
Click for more information

Oral Histories: Reston's Past, Present, and Future
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum

A presentation by Steve Resz, who will talk about the making of his brand-new video on Reston. The DVD will be for sale at the Museum. Langston Hughes Middle School students will recap this year's project followed by a discussion moderated by museum personnel. Free for members. $15 for non-members.

Writing Your Memoirs
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
7:00 p.m.
Reston Museum

How to get started in recording family history - collecting, arranging, writing down facts - and how to go on from there. Free for members. $15 for non-members.

[top]

"The Nature of Reston"
by Chuck Veatch
Text by Claudia Thompson-Deahl
Foreward by The Founder of Reston, Robert E. Simon, Jr.

 

"The Nature of Reston" is an art book, photography book, nature book and an informational guide to Reston’s habitats all in one beautiful hard-bound volume. All profits from the sale of "The Nature of Reston" will be used by the Reston Historic Trust, a 501 (c) (3) organization to promote environmental education within Reston. You can buy "The Nature of Reston" in our Storefront Museum or you can order it online.

Click image for "The Nature of Reston" order form.

Nature of Reston Flowers

[top]

Student's Showcase

[content to come]

[top]

2007 Summertime Fun at Lake Anne Village Center

Lake Anne Village Center is truly a unique place to dine, shop and play in Northern Virginia, with concerts, outdoor bazaars and a farmers market, spring through fall, and special events throughout the year. Lake Anne Village Center is on North Shore Drive at Village Road - just east of Reston Parkway, south of Baron Cameron Avenue.


See Schedules: TAKE A BREAK Concerts | Free Children's Shows

“Water Forms” Art Exhibition
July 3 – August 6 Jo Ann Rose Gallery, Reston Community Center
Oil paintings by Pam Coulter Blehert
Reception: July 8, 2 pm – 4 pm. All welcome!
703-476-4500

“Artists' Journeys” Art Exhibition
July 5 – August 2, Saturdays & Sundays, 12 – 5 pm, or by chance or appointment
Distant and near views in paint, collage, pastel, mixed media, plus hand-made jewelry and prints.
703-481-8156 Reston Art Gallery & Studios

American Spiritual / Jazz & Gospel Music
Friday, July 6, 7:30 pm Washington Plaza Baptist Church
Refreshments afterwards. All welcome!
703-471-5225

Bluegrass JAM – Players and spectators welcome!
Sunday, July 8, 1 pm – 4 pm Reston’s Used Book Shop
703-435-9772

Lake Anne Regatta ~
3rd Annual Radio Controlled Model Yacht Races
Saturday, July 21
First race at 10:30 am
Enter the prize drawing to win a model yacht!

GRCC Network Night at Lake Anne
Tuesday, July 24, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Fun, food and entertainment by the lake, hosted by Lake Anne Merchants
GRCC Members: $10; Non Members: $30
To register, call the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce
703-707-9045 or visit www.restonchamber.org

Open Mic Nights
Every Tuesday, 8 pm Tavern on the Lake
703-471-0121
Friday, July 27, 7:30 pm Reston’s Used Book Shop
703-435-9772

Belly Dance Performances
Every Thursday & Sunday 7:30 pm;
Every Friday & Saturday, 8 pm
July 13 – August 29: Wednesdays at 7:30, no Thursday performance
La Kasbah
www.lakasbahrestaurant.com
703-707-0733

LIVE MUSIC
Every Saturday, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm Jasmine Café
703-471-9114
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 9 pm Tavern on the Lake
703-471-0121

Run, Jog or Walk with Body by Geoff
Every Saturday, 8 am. Free. Meet at Body By Geoff
703-464-5559

BOAT Rentals
Thursdays & Fridays, 4 pm – 8 pm
Saturdays, 9 am – 5 pm
Until September 1
Rent a kayak, canoe, rowboat or paddleboat for a Lake Anne voyage.
$6 per boat, per hour. Purchase tickets at Body By Geoff
703-464-5559

Free CHILDREN’S SHOWS
Presented by Lake Anne Merchants
Every Tuesday and Thursday, 11-11:30 am On the Plaza
June through August (July & August schedule follows below)

Free Outdoor CONCERTS
TAKE A BREAK

Presented by Reston Community Center in cooperation with MSE Productions
June 21 through August 30, every Thursday, 7 pm On the Plaza
Bring a lawn chair and enjoy live music under the stars!
(July & August schedule follows below)

Reston FARMERS MARKET
Every Saturday, through October, 8 am until noon Lake Anne Parking Area
All the favorites are back for this 10th season, plus a new exciting vendor!

“The Reston Market” – Art, Crafts, Antiques & Collectibles
Every Saturday, 9 am until 2 pm On the Plaza
A variety of vendors with jewelry, rugs, art, handcrafts, plus free ENTERTAINMENT

Children’s Art Workshops
Every Saturday, 10 am – Noon Reston Museum
Free make and take projects, themed for the seasons, with artist Pat Macintyre.
703-709-7700

[top]

TAKE A BREAK Concerts, every Thursday, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Every Thursday, June 1 through August 31 - Presented by Lake Anne Merchants Association at Reston Community Center in cooperation with MSE Productions. Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chair and enjoy free outdoor concerts at Lake Anne Plaza - from rock to ethnic to big band sound. Full schedule of performers follows below.

2007 Summer Schedule
July 5 Never Alone - Contemporary Jazz
July 12 Oasis - Reggae & Island Beat
July 19 Swingin’ Swamis - Hip Retro & Island Beat
July 26 Uptown Vocal - BeBop
August 2 October Skies - Acoustic Current Folk
August 9 Mystic Warriors - Mystical Andean Pipe Music
August 16 DPT New Orleans - Zydeco Rock
August 23 Iona High-Energy - Traditional Pan-Celtic
August 30 Interlude Straight Ahea - Jazz & Pop

[top]

Free CHILDREN’S SHOWS

Presented by Lake Anne Merchants 703-620-5554 (MSE Productions), in front of the Reston Museum.

July & August Schedule:
Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:00 am – 11:30 am – On Lake Anne Plaza

2007 Summer Schedule
July 3 Jolly Jack
July 5 Potters Comedy Juggling
July 10 Bingo the Clown
July 12 Unicycle Lady
July 17 Kid Comic
July 19 Malcolm the Magician
July 24 Gleemania – Magic Earth
July 26 Rainbow the Clown
July 31 Brooksie Kids Songs
August 2 Malcolm the Magician
August 7 Peter McCory One-Man Band
August 9 Safari Bingo
August 14 Brooksie Kids Songs
August 16 Outback Jack
August 21 Unicycle Lady
August 23 Kid Comic
August 28 Rainbow the Clown
August 30 Gleemania – Little Red Riding Hood

[top]

2006 Walks & Hikes
Sponsored walks usually begin with a brief orientation at Reston Museum, 1639 Washington Plaza, in Lake Anne Village Center. A $5 donation is requested. For reservations and more information, call 703-709-7700. If you are not already a member of the Reston Historic Trust, please consider joining. Your support is highly valued. Memberships are available at reasonable cost and strongly support the Reston Museum.

Lake Audubon Kayak Trip
An afternoon canoe and kayak trip on Lake Audubon is planned for October 2006. Here is Bonnie Whyte, Museum Walk Coordinator and volunteer extraordinaire, on a trial run.

Reston Museum Walk and Tour Schedule Through November 2006

Sunday, January 29, 2006 -- Thirty-four of us met at the Reston Museum at 12:20 pm to catch a complimentary ride with Reston Limousine to Air and Space Museum at Dulles Airport. Bill Jackman did a super job as our trip leader as did the docent assigned to us by the Air and Space Museum. It was a marvelous experience -- one we will want to repeat.

Sunday, February 19, 2006 -- Trail Walk. Meet at the Reston Museum at 1:30 pm to walk with Joe Stowers along a trail, that is currently being prepped for permanent signs. The fifth such marked trail in Reston, it runs from Tall Oaks Village Center, along an RA path through Hidden Creek golf course, through Lake Anne Village Center, to the North Point Center. New maps of all five marked trails will be available. We will pause at the Fuller family's adopted cleanup spot along the RA trail in Waterview Cluster to meet the Fullers and learn more about a valuable RA program and how to help. $5 donation is requested.

Wednesday, March 22, 2006 -- National Cathedral Stained Glass Tour and Tea. Reservations required by March 1. Meet at the Reston Museum at 11:20 to board our Reston Limousine van for the Washington Cathedral. There we join a special tour of the Cathedral's stained glass windows, 60 of which were created by Reston artist Brenda Belfield. Before the docent-led tour begins at 1:45, there should be time to take in an organ demonstration and recital which starts at 12:30, or visit the Herb Cottage, Museum Store or Greenhouse.

After our tour of about 75 minutes, (with photography permitted) we adjourn to the Observation Gallery for afternoon tea and a view of the city. We aim to leave about 4:00 arriving back in Lake Anne by 5:00 pm. Please note: a charge of $45 per person covers transportation and the charge for the tour and tea.

Reston artist Brenda Belfield created 60 of the stained glass windows in the National Cathedral in Washington, DC. In March 2006, Reston Museum presented a trip to tour the cathedral, and enjoy afternoon tea. National Cathedral Window

 

Sunday, April 23, 2006 -- Founder's Day Celebration. Presentation and Brick Commemoration, followed by a Founder's Day Walk led by Reston founder Robert E. Simon, Jr. at 1:30 p.m., Lake Anne Plaza.   Click for more information

Sunday, May 7, 2006 -- Spring Wildflower Walk. Meet at the Reston Museum at 1:30 for an exploration of late spring wildflowers either in the Reston Nature Center or along the Potomac in Turkey Run Park. Search for Blue Mountain spring wildflowers -- trilliums, yellow ladyslippers, and bluebells. Tour Leaders: Nancy Davis and Squire Muse. $5 donation is requested.

Sunday June 11, 2006 -- Summertime Trails. UPDATE! This Sunday's presentation will begin at Reston Community Center, Room B, at Lake Anne Village Center. Find out about great summer paths in a presentation by Doug Pew, originator of RestonPaths.com - the absolute best website for planning and mapping local adventures. The presentation will be followed by a walk on new sections of trails with pillared stream crossings in Runnymede Park, Herndon. Carpool to the trail from Lake Anne Village Center. $5 museum donation requested. Long pants and sturdy walking shoes recommended.

Tuesday, July 4, 2006 -- July 4 Walk to the Fireworks. Meet at Reston Community Center, Room B, at Lake Anne Village Center. Enjoy a celebration walk on the W&OD Trail to Herndon to eat, then on to Bready Park for music, fun and fireworks. Return by Fairfax Connector bus. Led by Squire Muse. Meet at Reston Museum and carpool to the starting point at Reston Town Center. $5 donation requested.

Sunday September 10, 2006 -- Colvin Run Trail Walk. Meeting at 1:30 at the Reston Museum, carpool to Colvin Run Mill to walk a section of the Cross County Trail between the mill and the river, crossing Difficult Run on pillars as it wends its way to the Potomac. The 38-mile long Cross County Trail, beginning in Lorton, recently had its official opening. Leaders: Nancy Davis, Squire Muse, Bonnie Whyte

Come join your friends of the Reston Museum for a 4-mile hike along a portion of the newly finished Cross-County Trail. On September 10th we will hike the woodland trail from Colvin Run Mill to Georgetown Pike along Difficult Run enjoying stream-side views, a fern-embanked hill trail between bends in the run, a flower-filled meadow, and possibly deer. There are two easy stream crossings, one on cement pillars and the other on very large, flat, handsome boulders. You are advised to wear sturdy shoes, since a few parts of the trail are rocky or root-filled. Due to the logistics of auto pick-up at the end of the hike, there will be a limit of 15 people on this first hike, so advance reservations are a must. Should more people wish this experience a second walk will be planned later in September. Biologist Squire Muse will lead the September 10th hike. Meet at the museum at 1:30 p.m. and we will car pool to the Colvin Run Mill lower Parking area.

SUNDAY, October 8, 2006 at 1:30 p.m. Meet at the Reston Museum for the annual "Doggie's Day Out" with Nancy Despeaux. Features a walk with lots of socializing, sniffing, and treats for some of our best pals. Maximum 6-foot standard (non-retractable) leashes, please. A $5 donation to the museum is requested.

SUNDAY, October 15, 2006 at 1:30 p.m. Meet at the Reston Museum for a re-do of the Cross County Trail Hike between Colvin Run Mill and Georgetown Pike. Distance is about four miles, with registration required since space is limited (703-709-7700). Sturdy shoes are recommended. We will carpool to the Colvin Run Mill lower parking area from the museum. A $5 donation to the museum is requested.

SUNDAY, November 5, 2006 at 1:30 p.m. Fall color trek with Squire Muse, starting at Hunters Woods Shopping Center. Distance is about five miles; comfortable walking shoes will be fine for this walk. Meet at the Museum for carpooling at 1:30 or be at the Hunters Woods Reston Community Center by 2:00 p.m. to start on the walk.

In the works: a special visit to see Reston Town Center's holiday decorations in early December. Watch for details to come.


2007 Walks & Hikes

Walk to the Fireworks
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
6:30 pm: Meet at Reston Museum to car pool or receive directions
$5 donation appreciated, or $10 per family.
Space is limited and reservations are required by SUNDAY, JULY 1. Call Reston Museum, 703-709-7700.

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a potluck picnic at the home of Nancy Davis, then hike down to Lake Fairfax Park to watch the fireworks. Please bring your choice of a dish to share, beverages will be provided as well as hot dogs or hamburgers to grill if desired. Bring seating - a blanket or lightweight chair, bug repellent if desired, and a flashlight for the return hike.

 
[top]

See some of the Walks & Hikes the Museum has sponsored in the past...


RHT walk Fuller AdoptASpot
Reston Museum explored the Fuller family’s
Adopt A Spot on a trail outing in 2005
 

Bright Pond Beaver Habitat
May 2004. Reston Historic Trust presents a spring walking tour and exploration of the Bright Pond beaver habitat in North Reston. The tour begins with a brief orientation at the Reston Museum & Shop.

“How to Ride the Bus”
August 29, 2004. Reston Historic Trust presents a special event for future and current bus riders. It may seem daunting to some, but it is easy to get around Reston by bus. Learn how beginning with a presentation at the Reston Museum at 1:30, followed by a bus tour of Reston. Thanks to the support of Fairfax Connector and Denis Paddeu, the bus tour will visit the Wiehle bus transit center (potential Metro stop) and continue to Reston’s newest transfer station at Reston Town Center, then return to Lake Anne Village Center.

Buttermilk Watershed Walk
July 17, 2005. Come take a walk along Buttermilk Creek with Diana Handy of Reston Association and learn about this little known stream and its associated Nature Trail. Learn about the various threats to this stream system and find out about what types of watershed improvement initiatives are happening to help this area. See a recently completed stream restoration project sponsored by the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services. Meet at the Reston Museum Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and carpool to the Buttermilk Trail.

Cross County Trail Walk
March 25, 2007. Meet at Reston Museum for carpool to the starting point. An early spring walk along a 4-mile stretch of the Cross County Trail along Accotink Creek, led by Marilyn Dicke. For a description and map of the trail, visit RestonPaths.com and click on Cross County Trail, then the Central Section Key Map.

Fall Color Walk in North Reston to Civil War Sites
October 23, 2005. Meet at Reston Museum and carpool -- Join us for a walk in North Reston on trails that connect Reston's Butler Pond with the new site for the Lake Anne Lutheran Church, and the Reston Firehouse, site of the Civil-War-era Battle of Dranesville. Fall colors should be at their peak. Lee Rau, a Civil War buff, who is also associated with the church building project, will lead our exploration of this historic corner of Reston. There will be options for either a 1-1/2 or 2-1/2-mile walk. We suggest sturdy walking shoes and long pants. After meeting at the Reston Museum we carpool to the Firehouse at the corner of Old Reston Avenue and Leesburg Pike.

DOGGIE'S DAY OUT
October 9, 2005. A walk meeting at 1:30 pm at the Reston Museum in Lake Anne Village Center. Dog owners and their pets are invited to our annual DOGGIE'S DAY OUT with Nancy Despeaux, a Hound Hike Leader for the Northern Virginia Hiking Club. She promises a walk around the lake that will appeal to pet lovers and especially their dogs, with great sniffing places and interesting smells along the way. Please bring maximum 6-foot standard non-retractable leashes. There will be doggie treats, water, and bandanas.

Flowering Ponds
June 2004. "An Exploration of Reston’s Flowering Ponds". A special morning walk at Sunrise Valley Park to see flora, fauna, and fragrant native water lilies in their season of bloom. The park is a wetland area surrounded by office buildings, with mulched paths and a wooden walkway stretching over the ponds, giving a fine vantage point to scan for water lilies as well as a variety of water creatures, birds, and plants. This tour includes a visit the Sallie Mae Gardens to view three historic ponds that are home to the Sacred Lotus that blooms in early summer. The ponds are also a habitat for a variety of birds, including the Great Blue Heron. Suggested attire: wear a hat, insect repellent, long pants and sturdy shoes.

Fall Color Adventure Walk to Fox Mill Park
October 24, 2004. Meet at the Reston Museum and Shop, Lake Anne Plaza at 1:30 PM. Join us for a fall hike into Fox Mill Park that starts in South Reston, where connecting trails offer good access to the park. This is one of a number of beautiful wooded areas on the edge of Reston that provide valuable buffers against suburban sprawl and congestion. You'll need sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots to navigate two to three miles of soft trails that have uneven surfaces, roots, and stones; picturesque wooden bridges take us across the streams. Fall colors should be at their peak.

Walking Tour of Reston Town Center's Holiday Decorations
December 11, 2004. Meet at 5:00 PM Saturday in the Lobby of the Reston Hyatt Regency Hotel. We'll begin our walking tour with an inside look at the gingerbread village adorning the Hyatt Regency Lobby Lounge, crafted by the hotel pastry chef just for the holidays. The heart of the miniature village features a model of Town Center's Fountain Square, including the skating rink. Next, we'll meet the chief engineer for Equity Office, who will give us the lowdown on the joys and challenges of getting Town Center dressed up for the holidays. We'll join him on a stroll around town for an after-dark look at the lights and decorations.

Inside Reston Town Center
June 2004. "An Insider’s Look at Reston Town Center" presented by Reston Historic Trust. A special walking tour of Reston Town Center with two of the leaders who helped make it happen. The two-hour tour begins in the Reston Hyatt Library with an overview of Reston Town Center, past and present, along with a preview of the exciting changes to come.

July 4th Walk to Herndon
July 4th 2005. Reston Historic Trust presents a Fourth of July Walk to Herndon to enjoy the festive music, food and fireworks at Bready Park. Meet at the Reston Museum in Lake Anne Village Center Monday, July 4th, 2005 at 5:00 PM. The 2-mile walk will parade along the W & OD trail from Reston Town Center, with Squire Muse leading the way. Meet at the Reston Museum at 5:00 p.m. for orientation, then carpool to Reston Town Center. Fact sheets with options for food, return transportation, and activities will be provided. Return will be by Fairfax Connector bus and carpool.In Herndon, those who wish to can buy a quick meal in town, then move on to Bready Park for music, food and entertainment, with fireworks beginning at 9:30 p.m. Walk organizers will have some chairs and cushions available on site.

Lake Anne Founder's Weekend
April 16, 2004. At approx. 2:00 p.m. Saturday (following the Founder's Day observance at Lake Anne Plaza), walk around the Lake Anne Historic Area, with stops at significant sites and visits with early residents and planners. Walk across Hidden Creek Golf Course (on RA paths) to tour the newly renovated Island Walk affordable housing complex with Dee Cotton. The walk will follow the Founder’s Day ceremony beginning at noon at Reston Community Center, Lake Anne Village Center.

National Cathedral Tour
Wednesday, November 16, 2005 at 7:00 pm. Making History in Reston: Generating “Jewels of Light” Brenda Belfield to present a program on the creation of stained glass windows for the National Cathedral. Brenda designed 60 of those windows at her Reston home.

Personally conducted follow-up tour: Saturday, December 10, 2005 meeting at noon. A pre-holiday venture to the National Cathedral in Washington DC to view the 60 stained glass windows created by Reston artist Brenda Belfield. She will present the story of "her" windows and how she came to have her work in the National Cathedral, during a special program at the Reston Museum the evening of November 16. Participants carpool to the National Cathedral from the Reston Museum.

Newly Marked Trail in South Reston
November 21, 2004. Join us Saturday for a walk on a South Reston trail. Now being marked for permanent signs that will show the way around town and through the woods. The walk will follow the newly marked trail through the Walker Nature Center to the Hunters Woods Pool, about 3¼ miles in distance, with an option for a shorter walk. Walkers will be invited to examine and critique the route where the new signs are to go, and offer comments on the overall trail signage program, which now includes four major Reston trails. Joe Stowers, who is responsible for installation of the trail signs, will be our guide. Meet at the Reston Museum at 1:30, then carpool to the start of the walk at Lake Audubon Pool.

A Walk in Polo Club
May 22, 2005. Visit the forests and meadows of the Polo Club neighborhood in Reston. Claudia Thompson-Deahl, Reston Association Natural Resources Manager, will lead a walk to see the results of a natural area restoration project, completed by Reston Association. Meet at the Reston Museum Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and carpool to Polo Club. A $5 donation is requested. Call the Museum at 703-709-7700 for reservations and information.

RELAC System Tour
Sunday, September 25, 2005 from 1:30 to 3:30 -- A walking tour of neighborhoods cooled by the 40-year-old RESTON LAKE ANNE AIR CONDITIONING CORPORATION (RELAC) system. Get a first hand look at the plant that pulls water from Lake Anne, chills it, and sends it through underground pipes to cool many of the properties surrounding the lake. Some 340 users are presently voting on whether to allow individual homeowners to opt out of the 40-year-old system. Architect Wayne Schiffelbein will lead the tour, with input invited from other residents and utility owner Aqua Virginia. Designed to reduce external noise and enhance aesthetic appeal, due to the lack of outside compressors, the RELAC System is unique in the US.

Reston Paths Presentation and Walk
Reston Community Center - Lake Anne

Sunday, June 10, 2007. Reston Museum presents Doug Pew with an update on www.RestonPaths.com , the go-to website for great walks and hikes in the Reston area. Following his presentation, Doug will lead a walk in Fred Crabtree Park (formerly Fox Mill Park) which borders south Reston.

Special Tour to Air & Space Museum at Dulles
January 29, 2006, Depart: 12:20 p.m., Return: 5:00 p.m. Here is a wonderful opportunity to see the Smithsonian's newest, magnificent National Air and Space Museum. Reston Historic Trust will present a tour of the the Udvar-Hazy Center, near Dulles Airport, on Sunday, January 29 at 12:20 p.m., with complimentary transportation provided by Reston Limousine.

The tour will include docent-guided highlights of the museum’s collection of air and space craft, including the shuttle Enterprise, the Concorde, the Enola Gay, the SR 71 Blackbird spy plane, and much more, including the observation tower.

The tour will gather at 12:20 pm at the Reston Museum in Lake Anne Village Center, to meet the Reston Limousine shuttle bus for prompt arrival in time for the Air & Space Museum docent. Space is limited and reservations are required by Wednesday, January 25. Call the Reston Museum at 703-709-7700. A $5 donation is requested.

An Exploration of the Gardens and Parks of Reston’s Urban Core
March 20, 2005. The Reston Historic Trust will present a walking tour of the gardens and parks in the urban core of Reston on Sunday, March 20 at 1:30 p.m. Discover what happened to Town Green Park – a dream that was only partially realized when the hillside above the Cameron Glen Care Center was planted with trees and flowers in 1990. The walk will also cover the new landscaping at the sculpture garden at Reston Regional Library.

Join walk leader, Nancy Davis up the hillside trail, where star magnolias may be blooming. Town Green Park was originated by a citizen’s committee, financed by Fairfax County and the Inova Health Care System, and nurtured by the Reston Garden Club. The Fairfax County Park Authority now manages the hillside garden and remaining undeveloped portion of the 5-acre site. Meet at the Reston Museum in Lake Anne Village Center at 1:30 p.m., Sunday March 20, then carpool to begin the walk. All walks will begin with a brief orientation at Reston Museum, 1639 Washington Plaza, in Lake Anne Village Center. A $5 donation is requested. For reservations and more information, call 703-709-7700.

Vienna Walk
Wednesday, May 23, 2007. Enjoy a venture to Vienna, led by Squire Muse, for a look at the city's new Town Green, and the 'Spy Bridge' made famous by the current Hollywood movie, Breach, playing in area theatres. Stop at the Vienna Inn for Dutch treat lunch.

Reston's Best Spring Walks 2005
April 3, 2005. Meet Sunday at the Reston Community Center at Lake Anne Village Center (while Museum is under renovation.

Reston Historic Trust will present a session on how to use www.restonpaths.com to choose the perfect walk, with Doug Pew, webmaster of RestonPaths.com. Reston Community Center at Lake Anne Village Center will host this special presentation on Sunday, April 3 at 1:30 p.m. A $5 Museum donation is requested.

Webmaster Doug Pew will give an illustrated talk on his unique web site that provides free photographs, maps, and directions for great walks and hikes in Reston and Northern Virginia. He'll reveal his favorite walks; new information on Reston trails; favorite county parks; and new maps of the South Run Stream Valley Park. Immediately following the presentation, Pew will lead a walk from North Hills Park to Bright Pond in Reston. The group will carpool from Lake Anne Village Center to North Hills Park.

Since the Reston Museum will be under renovation that weekend, this Reston Historic Trust presentation will take place just a few doors away at the Lake Anne branch of the Reston Community Center, 1609 Washington Plaza. For information and reservations, call the Reston Museum at 703-709-7700.

Sunday, April 24, 2005 at 1:30 p.m. – Walk in Riverbend Park to view the annual spring show of Virginia Bluebells and other wildflowers along the Potomac, with Nancy Davis.

Sunday, May 8, 2005 at 1:30 p.m. – “Peak of Wildflowers” Walk in Meadowlark Gardens with the staff naturalist. Led by Marion Meader.

Summer Walks 2004
• Early morning walk in Sunrise Valley wetlands to see water lilies.
• Evening walk in Sallie Mae Gardens to take in the hardy hibiscus blooms and lotus blossoms. The blue heron is often out at dusk.
• Walking tour of USGS's 18-plus forested acres.
• Cross Country Trail from Colvin Run Mill along Colvin Run to Leigh Road, and return to the Mill for ice cream.

Twin Branches Trail
November 7, 2004. Walk the trail to the W&OD. Meet at the Museum Sunday at 1:30 pm. Fall leaves will still be in high color, as we take off along the Twin Branches Nature Trail and follow it until we connect with the W&OD. In all, it will be about a two-mile walk.

A Walk in the Woods of the US Geological Survey in Reston
June 15, 2005. Reston Historic Trust will lead a walk through the trails of the 105-acre US Geological Survey property in Reston on Wednesday, Wednesday, June 15 at 10:00 AM (rain date, June 22). The walk will begin with a USGS staff briefing (by Beth Stettner, USGS Communications Officer) about the facility and its grounds, followed by an exploration of nature trails, then entrance to the building to view exhibits, visit the map store, and lunch in the cafeteria. A photo ID is required for entrance to the building. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Reston Museum, 1639 Washington Plaza at Lake Anne Village Center, and carpool to the USGS headquarters. A $5 donation to the Museum is requested. For reservations and information, call the Reston Museum at 703-709-7700.

Watershed Walk
September 12, 2004. Reston Historic Trust presents a walking tour and exploration of Reston’s urban watershed. The tour begins Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at the Reston Museum & Shop, 1639 Washington Plaza at Lake Anne Village Center. The Watershed Walk will be lead by Diana Saccone, Watershed Manager for Reston Association, starting with a look at Lake Anne and it's necessary improvements, then a carpool to the headwaters of one of Reston’s stream valleys. The tour will step off the beaten trail and get up close to one of Reston’s main streams, Snakeden Branch, and will include a discussion of the importance of streams and buffers, what type of stress they are under, and how we can help to fix things. A recently restored stretch of the stream will be explored as the walk progresses downstream. There will be some fun Reston Watershed trivia along the way. Organizers recommend wearing waterproof footwear and appropriate insect protection.

Holiday Visit to Wiehle Village
Sunday, December 18, 2005. Reston Historic Trust presents a holiday meander down the byways of the 100 year-old village of Wiehle, with its three surviving structures situated in the heart of Reston. The walk includes a visit to the Robert Wiehle House, built in 1895, and rarely open to visitors. Recently restored, it is presently a private home that will be decked out for the holidays, with traditional decorations as well as historic photos and maps. The home is on St. Louis Avenue, one of the original Wiehle streets, tucked in the midst of modern Reston, and surrounded by Sycamore trees.

Squire Muse on W&OD Trail
Sunday, November 6, 2005. We'll take in the last of the fall colors along the W&OD hiking/biking trail between Reston and Vienna. With Squire Muse in the lead, look for areas of tree removal and replanting along the trail -- the result of new and more aggressive efforts to keep vegetation away from overhead power lines.

W&OD Trail Clear-Cutting
February 13, 2005. An Issue Walk to the Tree Removal Site Along the W&OD Trail. Join us for a walking tour along a stretch of the W&OD trail in Vienna where the Dominion Virginia Power Company, owner of the power lines overhead, has been clear-cutting hundreds of trees along the trail. The clear-cutting is scheduled to begin along Reston portions of the trail this month. This is a vast departure from the selective pruning that has been done until now to keep branches away from the power lines. For comparison purposes, we'll also check out an area still untouched by the clear-cutting. After meeting at the Reston Museum in Lake Anne Village Center at 1:30 we will carpool to Vienna to begin the walk.

Also, concerned people are urged to attend a community meeting on the issue, sponsored by the Reston Association. Representatives of Dominion Virginia Power are expected to be there: Wednesday, February 9 at 7 p.m., Reston Association, 1930 Isaac Newton Square, Reston

[top]
Programs & Activities
Artists In-Residence Program
Annual Flower Show
Children’s Art Workshops
Commemorative Bricks
Educational Programs
Fall Home Tour 2007ü
Fall Home Tour 2006
Fall Home Tour 2005
Founder's Day 2007
Founder's Day 2006
Gallery Talks
Lake Anne Interactive Map
"Members Only" Series
Monthly Programs
Auction
Black Focus
A Performance of Song...
History Comes Alive
Lake Anne Revitalization Visions Program
Oral Histories
Writing Your Memoirs
Student's Showcase
"The Nature of Reston" Book
2007 Summer Fun! ü
Free Children's Entertainment ü
Take A Break Concerts ü

2006 Walks & Hikes
2007 Walks & Hikes
Walk to the Fireworksü

Past Walks & Hikes
Bright Pond Beaver Habitat
“How to Ride the Bus”
Buttermilk Watershed
Cross County Trail Walk
Civil War Sites
Doggies’ Day Out
Flowering Ponds
Fox Mill Park
Holiday Decorations
Inside Reston Town Center
July 4th Walk to Herndon
Lake Anne
National Cathedral Tour
Newly Marked Trail
A Walk in Polo Club
RELAC System Tour
Reston Paths Presentation
Reston’s Urban Core
Spring Walks
Squire Muse on W&OD Trail
Summer Walks
Twin Branches
US Geological Survey
Udvar-Hazy Air & Space Museum
Vienna Walk
Watershed
Wiehle Village
W&OD Trail Clear-Cutting

 
Celebrate the Past · Promote Community Involvement · Plan for the Future