Things to do in McLean

Activities, attractions and tours

EB9DHY Views of Great Falls National Park on the Potomac in McLean, Virginia, near Washington DC
EB9DHY Views of Great Falls National Park on the Potomac in McLean, Virginia, near Washington DC
Great Falls Park; Shutterstock ID 318881138
Great Falls National Park on Potomac River in Virginia USA
At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. The Patowmack Canal offers a glimpse into the early history of this country. Great Falls Park has many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from the Nation's Capital.
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Most popular experiences in McLean

Tours & day trips

See all 422 activities
Night Monuments Tour with 10 Stops and Admission Ticket Upgrades

Night Monuments Tour with 10 Stops and Admission Ticket Upgrades

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 1592 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 267 per adult
Night Monuments Tour with 10 Stops and Admission Ticket UpgradesOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 158 activities
Public or Private DC Moonlight Tour by E-Cart or Vintage Car

Public or Private DC Moonlight Tour by E-Cart or Vintage Car

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
The previous price was RM 232 and current price is RM 209 per adult
Public or Private DC Moonlight Tour by E-Cart or Vintage CarOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 46 activities
Public or Private DC Moonlight Tour by E-Cart or Vintage Car

Public or Private DC Moonlight Tour by E-Cart or Vintage Car

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
The previous price was RM 232 and current price is RM 209 per adult
Public or Private DC Moonlight Tour by E-Cart or Vintage CarOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 31 activities
City Cruises Washington DC: Premier Brunch Cruise

City Cruises Washington DC: Premier Brunch Cruise

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 63 reviews
Price is RM 523 per adult
City Cruises Washington DC: Premier Brunch CruiseOpens in new tab

Holiday & seasonal tours

See all 10 activities
Alexandria: Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour

Alexandria: Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour

Activity duration is 1 hour and 15 minutes
7.6 out of 10 with 5 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 118 per adult
Alexandria: Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost TourOpens in new tab

What to do in McLean

Popular places to visit

Highrise buildings in Tysons Corner, Virginia. Tysons Corner is part of the Washington DC Metropolitan Area.

Tysons Corner Center

4/5(7 reviews)

During your trip to McLean, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Tysons Corner Center. Discover the area's great live music and notable monuments.

Tysons Corner Center

Tysons Galleria

5/5(1 review)

During your trip to McLean, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Tysons Galleria. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed art galleries.

Tysons Galleria

Capital One Hall

You can make plans for a show at Capital One Hall on your trip to McLean. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Capital One Hall

CIA Headquarters

After visiting CIA Headquarters, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in McLean. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its fascinating museums.

CIA Headquarters

McLean Shopping Center

During your visit to McLean, you can enjoy retail therapy at McLean Shopping Center. Make time to visit the area's notable monuments or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

McLean Shopping Center

Langley Shopping Center

During your trip to McLean, you can do some window-shopping at Langley Shopping Center. Make time to visit the area's notable monuments or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Langley Shopping Center

Scott's Run Nature Preserve

Explore the great outdoors at Scott's Run Nature Preserve, a lovely green space in McLean. Make time to visit the area's notable monuments or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Scott's Run Nature Preserve

Alden Theatre

You can get tickets for a performance at Alden Theatre during your stay in McLean. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene.

Alden Theatre

Claude Moore Colonial Farm

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Claude Moore Colonial Farm in McLean. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed theatre scene.

Claude Moore Colonial Farm
United States Capitol showing an administrative buidling, heritage architecture and autumn leaves

Washington

Waterfalls on Stauton River in Bear Church Rock trail in shenandoah national park

Falls Church

Aerial view of the Potomac Glen neighborhood in Potomac, Montgomery County, Maryland. A rock quarry is on the top right.

Potomac

Frequently asked questions

Is McLean worth visiting?
McLean has a unique blend of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or local culinary flavours, there are many things you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in McLean?
National Museum of African American History and Culture and Smithsonian's National Zoo are two great places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in McLean while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in McLean?
The top tourist attraction in McLean is National Mall, so don't forget to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in McLean?
Three days will be enough time to tick off the leading city attractions, such as Great Falls Park, Washington National Cathedral and State Theatre. The average stay in McLean is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Washington isn't far away.
Is McLean a walkable city?
Some key attractions in McLean, including Kimball Theatre and Glen Echo Park, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 3 kilometres from the city centre of McLean is Pimmit Hills and Rock Spring is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in McLean with kids?
If you're looking for attractions and activities for all of your group, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in McLean with kids.

What to do in McLean for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or fan of Mother Nature, there's no shortage of things to do in McLean for adults including K Street and Ellsworth Place.
Are there free things to do in McLean?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in McLean. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Washington National Cathedral is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their travel adventures.