Grist Mill Park

A Glimpse into History

Found in Alexandria, Virginia, Grist Mill Park spans 75 peaceful acres along Holmes Run Creek. This green oasis in the Mount Vernon Supervisory District of Fairfax County carries a name that's not only a label but also a connection to the past.

Back in the early 19th century, a water-powered grist mill churned away on this very ground, transforming the area's wheat and corn into flour for nearby communities. While the mill itself is gone, the park preserves this glimpse of agricultural heritage while offering plenty of modern-day fun.

Get Your Game On

If you're into sports, you can find yourself right at home here. The park features several athletic fields where local leagues and casual players alike enjoy baseball, softball, soccer, and more.

There's a well-kept turf soccer field that comes alive on weekends with youth games, multiple baseball fields dotting the landscape, and a basketball court with a slight grade (cleverly designed to keep those annoying water puddles at bay).

Not feeling particularly athletic? No problem. The park offers picnic areas with tables scattered throughout, gentle walking trails winding through wooded sections, and plenty of space to simply exist in nature for a while.

Kid-Friendly Fun

The large playground here is a hit with the little ones - especially preschoolers and older kids who love to climb. The equipment is kept in good shape and offers enough variety to burn through some serious energy.

During summer months, keep an ear out for the magical melody of the ice cream truck that often swings by after soccer games. And there's no shortage of open grassy areas where kids can run wild or try their hand at kite-flying.

For the Furry Friends

Past the community garden area, you'll come across a spacious fenced dog park where your four-legged companions can frolic off-leash. The area features plenty of trees for shade and benches where you can catch your breath while Fido makes new friends.

The stone dust surface works well enough, although it can kick up some dust during dry spells. Weekends tend to draw the biggest crowds of pups and their people, making it a great spot for socialization - for both species.

Community Growing Together

One of the park's standout features is its community garden plots, where green thumbs cultivate everything from tomatoes to tulips. During growing season, County master gardeners stop by on select Saturdays to share their wisdom, and there's a lovely spirit of cooperation among the gardeners themselves.

The park's iconic barn structure stands as a visual reminder of days gone by. While it's not currently being used, there's talk about potential future purposes for this distinctive landmark.

Natural Beauty

The presence of Holmes Run Creek adds a tranquil soundtrack and natural beauty to the park. The waterway and surrounding vegetation create a haven for local wildlife and contribute to the park's peaceful atmosphere.

If you're looking to extend your outdoor adventure, the Mount Vernon Trail runs right in front of the park, excellent for walking, jogging, or cycling. Fall visitors are in for a special treat as the surrounding trees put on their spectacular autumn color show.

Good to Know

You'll find a sizeable parking lot that usually has plenty of space, but it can fill up during soccer season and weekend events. As for facilities, be aware that the restrooms are portable toilets rather than permanent structures - bringing hand sanitizer might be a good idea.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 8PM, accommodating both early birds and evening recreation seekers.