Downtown is four city blocks wide and two long. You can park for free just about anywhere downtown and walk around. However there is a local bus system, the CUE bus runs from Mason around the city. The bus is free for students and faculty. Everyone else pays $1.75 per trip. If you transfer using the SmarTrip card the fare is reduced by 50 cents.

George Mason University (commonly known as Mason) is a research university located in Fairfax, Virginia and the largest of its kind in the state. Its motto is Freedom and Learning. At its inception it was a part of the University of Virginia it became independent in 1972.

About George Mason University
The university’s faculty has won Nobel Prize twice in the field of Economics; and the school has strong programs in economics, law, computer science, business, and creative writing. Approximately 34 thousand students attend the school each year. Fairfax itself has a population of more than 22 thousand people. The City of Fairfax and Fairfax County are two separate entities. Fairfax forms part of the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Metropolitan Area. Fairfax boasts that Forbes magazine ranked them number three in the Top 25 places to live well.

Things to do in Fairfax
In March they have the Chocolate Lover Festival it’s held in the heart of Old Town Fairfax. In the Spring there’s Blenheim Civil War Encampment Homes Tour.  In April there is Spotlight on the Arts in cooperation with Mason University, Northern VA Community College and the City of Fairfax school district. It runs 3 weeks ad features artwork, dance, music, theater, and concerts.

Don’t miss the 4th of July Independence Day Celebration Parade and Evening Fireworks show. In September there’s the Irish Festival; enjoy music, dance, and songs. In October there is the 2nd Saturday; Fall Festival with about 35 to 45 thousand people in attendance is one of the biggest festivals in the city. There are arts, crafts, and food vendors. In December they have the first Saturday; Festival of Lights & Carol; picture with Santa, caroling, lighting of the town Christmas Tree and more.

Fairfax Restaurants
The 29 Diner (Tastee 29 Diner) at 10536 Fairfax Blvd. is an historical landmark and has some great food also. The Auld Shebeen Irish Pub and Restaurant has a lively atmosphere, great service and outstanding food. Hard Times Cage at 4069 Chain Bridge RD. Its frequented by college kids and young professionals. The food is a bit expensive but good. Catch the game you missed on the TV Thursday from 3-9.

Hotels in Fairfax
There are several national chain hotels located in Fairfax like Best Western, Candlewood Suites, Courtyard Fairfax, the Marriott, Residence Inn, Holiday Inn, Springhill Suites, the Hilton, and the Hampton Inn. Due to the proximity to the Washington Metropolitan Area many accommodations can be found in Maryland also.