Outdoor gathering options expand for Mount Vernon community

Residents of Mount Vernon and the broader Richmond Highway area have some additional options this fall for outdoor socializing and enjoyment of the cooler weather.

Construction of the new parklet at Mount Vernon Plaza is complete, and the space is officially open to the public. Located behind Moe’s Southwest Grill and Capital Chicken, the community space is designed for dining and socializing. It features bench swings, rocking patio chairs, dining tables, large ornamental "rocks," overhead lighting and lots of greenery. 

Federal Realty and Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation (SFDC) are finalizing plans for a future ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the parklet’s official opening. SFDC also is planning future programming for the community gathering area. The parklet is located in the space between 7698 and 7696 Richmond Highway.

Past autumn scene at River Farm

Meanwhile, River Farm, headquarters of the American Horticultural Society (AHS), is relaunching weekend hours on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., starting Oct. 1. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, River Farm’s gardens were accessible to the public for half-days on Saturdays from spring to fall; however, the weekend hours were eliminated when the venue temporarily closed its doors due to COVID in April 2020. 

Visitors may bring picnic materials and leashed pets on-site, as long as the property is kept litter-free. Located at 7931 East Boulevard Drive, River Farm is accessible by car via the George Washington Memorial Parkway or by bike/foot from the Mount Vernon Trail.