2. Patriot Center At George Mason University
City: Fairfax, VA
Category: Shopping
Telephone: (703) 993-3000
Address: 4400 University Drive
Description: This 10,000-seat arena hosts a variety of events in addition to the men’s and women’s Patriots’ home basketball games. The center’s annual event slate features 25 shows, mostly by nationally known popular performers like David Bowie and Avril Lavigne. Family programs like Walt Disney’s World on Ice and Sesame Street Live take place several times a year. (See our Spectator Sports chapter for more on the center’s sporting events.)
3. Cinema Arts Theatre
City: Fairfax, VA
Category: Shopping
Telephone: (703) 978-6991
Description: We head to this friendly neighborhood theater, owned by local film buffs, when we want to catch the latest art release or first-rate mainstream flick. The remodeled theaters feature amenities like loveseat-style chairs, seats with attached trays, and an eclectic menu offering sushi, cracker and cheese plates, gourmet desserts, and fancy coffees. The cinema hosts a popular Sunday morning film club, which screens upcoming indie and foreign films.