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Top 24 Hotels Near Grist Mill Park
4710 Mt Vernon Highway Alexandria, VA 22309
Best Western Plus Alexandria / Fort Belvoir
Reaching Grist Mill Park from Best Western Plus Alexandria / Fort Belvoir is a quick drive, a feature that weaves convenience into the fabric of the stay.
Lobby coffee or hydration points may be offered by Best Western, providing small resets that help late arrivals regroup before heading upstairs. Each suite supports fast Wi-Fi, HDMI-ready TVs, and plentiful outlets, so presentations or shared media run smoothly right in the room. Meeting floors connect salons, foyers, and prefunction spaces with signage, smoothing flow for smaller conferences, reunions, or clinics.
Between pet-relief guidance, breakfast, Wi-Fi, and late-night pantry markets, essentials remain reachable as plans stretch into odd hours.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Alexandria Fort Belvoir
From TownePlace Suites by Marriott Alexandria Fort Belvoir, the brief connection to Grist Mill Park puts travelers within easy reach for any occasion of their destination.
Lobby coffee and breakfast pairings at TownePlace Suites set reliable rhythms, giving arrivals familiar grounding across every location. Each guest suite includes functional kitchens and plush bedding, helping longer stays feel effortless, cozy, and organized. Laundry facility includes coin-op washers and folding benches, making longer stay care routines feel workflow-oriented and stress-free.
On-site laundry, meeting space, and free breakfast extend continuity with cleanliness, collaboration, and nourishment that support long stays.
Stay APT Suites Alexandria-Fort Belvoir
The journey from Stay APT Suites Alexandria-Fort Belvoir to Grist Mill Park is a straightforward drive, an advantage that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
Guests at Stay APT Suites Alexandria-Fort Belvoir may encounter a simple desk, quick parking options, and vending access arranged for reliable budget arrivals. Each guest room often features hardwood floors, blackout curtains, and in-room coffee, giving travelers privacy and daily convenience. Shared spaces may include modest lobbies, vending corners, and breakfast areas that sustain clarity and comfort for overnight stays.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, laundry facilities, and parking, helping support reliable routines while away from home.
Hampton Inn by Hilton & Suites Mt. Vernon / Belvoir-Alexandria South Area
The hotel's spot a short drive from Grist Mill Park gives Hampton Inn by Hilton & Suites Mt. Vernon / Belvoir-Alexandria South Area guests a direct way to engage with their surroundings.
Open lobby layouts with bright lighting at Hampton Inn create orientation clarity, ensuring arrivals navigate the space without confusion. Guest rooms offer ergonomic chairs, desks, and reliable Wi-Fi, helping travelers maintain productivity in comfortable, practical spaces. Breakfast areas with hot buffets, pastries, and coffee stations give guests clarity at day’s start, ensuring mornings begin with dependable ease.
Complimentary breakfast, self-parking, Wi-Fi connectivity, fitness rooms, and outdoor pools deliver reliability for varied travel patterns.
Candlewood Suites Alexandria - Fort Belvoir by IHG
In Alexandria, Candlewood Suites Alexandria - Fort Belvoir by IHG has a well-connected location to Grist Mill Park, letting guests move at their own pace before their stay begins.
Where pet-friendly rooms are available, Candlewood Suites posts policy notes at the desk, aligning expectations before keys are issued. Every suite keeps easy-wipe counters and a trash-recycle pair, making quick resets simple so spaces read tidy between activities. Courtyards gather shade, planters, and durable chairs, turning spare hours into comfortable outdoor time near entries and lobby paths.
Free Wi-Fi, a fitness room, and towel return pair with a hydration point and market, turning short gaps into efficient reset moments.
Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Belvoir Alexandria South
The benefit of a simple drive to Grist Mill Park turns Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Belvoir Alexandria South into a great starting point before the rest of the stay unfolds.
Casual décor with regional accents inside Hampton Inn receptions delivers polished impressions, reinforcing authenticity and consistency. Each suite provides televisions, sofa beds, and armchairs, creating flexible areas where families can relax together during their stay. Fitness centers with treadmills, free weights, and resistance machines provide wellness continuity, helping travelers stay balanced daily.
EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pools, breakfast bags, and laundry access support daily routines with flexible convenience.
Red Carpet Inn Alexandria
At Red Carpet Inn Alexandria, being an easy drive from Grist Mill Park is a core feature that elevates the convenience of the stay.
For travelers on the go, the quick check-in at Red Carpet Inn is a key feature, respecting their time and need for a fast transition. Guest rooms are designed with basic comforts in mind, providing a simple, affordable, and welcoming retreat for roadside travelers. Guest laundry facilities at some properties are a major convenience for travelers on longer trips, allowing them to refresh their wardrobe.
A thoughtful mix of an outdoor pool, a pet-friendly policy, free Wi-Fi, and in-room microwaves enhances the comfort of any visit.
Quality Inn Mt. Vernon
In Alexandria, Quality Inn Mt. Vernon's well-connected location keeps Grist Mill Park an easy drive, letting guests move with freedom.
Quality Inn places clear signage and readable maps in the lobby so rideshare, shuttle, and parking directions are easy to locate. Suites add extra storage, larger surfaces, and multiple seating options so collaborative planning and family routines stay organized. Guest vending corners and market shelves provide batteries, toiletries, and snacks so travelers avoid late-night trips off property during stays.
Parcel acceptance and simple office supplies at some locations let small teams manage shipments and presentations without leaving the property.
Embassy Suites Springfield
For guests in Alexandria, Embassy Suites Springfield keeps Grist Mill Park a simple cross-town drive, a location that supports an efficient itinerary.
Hydration points within Embassy Suites receptions pair with seating clusters, offering refreshment that softens the shift from travel to stay. Suites provide work desks, ergonomic seating, and ample outlets, supporting productive routines while maintaining in-room comfort. Breakfast areas with cooked-to-order stations and buffet counters help guests begin mornings smoothly with dependable dining variety.
Pet-friendly policies, fitness areas, breakfast offerings, business corners, and Wi-Fi connectivity make every stay straightforward.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Alexandria
When staying in Alexandria, the uncomplicated drive from Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Alexandria to Grist Mill Park is an easy drive, allowing for a low-stress start to the day.
At check-in, Fairfield Inn staff can store luggage in a dedicated back room, giving travelers the freedom to explore before room access. Guest rooms contain branded bath amenities, shower/tub combos, and bright mirrors, ensuring personal care routines are clear and dependable. Indoor pool facilities include safe depth markers, lounge chairs, and towel stations, ensuring families can enjoy relaxation with peace of mind.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, parking, and meeting spaces deliver practical services that simplify travel and maintain dependable support.
Extended Stay America Suites Washington DC Springfield
Upon leaving Extended Stay America Suites Washington DC Springfield, Grist Mill Park is a simple cross-town drive to avoid traffic, simplifying your visit.
A convenient grab-and-go breakfast at Extended Stay America ensures guests can get a quick bite before heading out for work or sightseeing. All guest rooms feature a well-lit work area and free Wi-Fi, creating a functional and private office for any business traveler. Vending machines offer around-the-clock access to popular snacks and sodas, providing a reliable option for late-night cravings.
With a fitness center, a swimming pool, a guest laundry, and a grab-and-go breakfast, the hotel is equipped for any travel routine.
Days Inn by Wyndham Alexandria South
When the primary destination in Alexandria is Grist Mill Park, Days Inn by Wyndham Alexandria South's location an easy drive away allows the focus to remain on the visit.
With automatic doors and weather mats, Days Inn keeps the entry tidy and roll-ins smooth when traffic peaks during evening check-in windows. Guest rooms position a closet mirror and hanging width for coats and outfits, keeping prep tidy before photos, meetings, or dinners. Ice rooms and vending sit close to elevator banks, creating a quick-stop cluster that keeps essentials near exits and guest lifts.
Between breakfast items, Wi-Fi, and a fitness room plus pool access where available, essentials remain within steps from early to late.
SpringHill Suites Alexandria
For a trip to Alexandria, SpringHill Suites Alexandria's location a direct run from Grist Mill Park offers a convenient and time-saving travel option.
Complimentary breakfast and stylish finishes at SpringHill Suites combine practicality and design, sending cues of consistency and care. Guest rooms include plush bedding, blackout shades, and adjustable thermostats, creating personalized conditions that promote restorative sleep. The breakfast space provides eggs, fruit, and baked goods with hot coffee, helping travelers establish consistent routines every morning.
Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast service, indoor pool access, and fitness facilities, ensuring balanced routines and dependable care.
Hotel Belvoir Springfield
In Alexandria, Hotel Belvoir Springfield has a easy-travel location relative to Grist Mill Park, letting guests easily transition from their room to the event.
At Hotel Belvoir Springfield, guests are often welcomed with curated interiors, boutique-style check-in, and complimentary refreshments for comfort. Accommodations typically provide unique décor, curated minibars, and spa-style bathrooms for a boutique-style guest orientation. Shared spaces often feature farm-to-table restaurants, artisanal cafés, and eclectic lounges that reflect boutique individuality.
A visit may offer complimentary Wi-Fi, bike storage, laundry service, and pet allowances, creating boutique practicality for all guests.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alexandria - Fort Belvoir by IHG
From Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alexandria - Fort Belvoir by IHG, the minimal trip to Grist Mill Park removes travel complications to keep things simple before the stay unfolds.
Holiday Inn Express greets guests with complimentary coffee in the lobby, offering a courtesy that eases the transition from travel. Suites provide sofa beds, lounge seating, and large TVs, ensuring group or family accommodations remain flexible and comfortable. Pools combining indoor access, lounge chairs, and towel service offer relaxation zones where adults and children can unwind together.
Business centers, fitness facilities, and free breakfast align with Wi-Fi and parking, covering everyday needs for every traveler.
Wingate by Wyndham Springfield
The journey from Wingate by Wyndham Springfield to Grist Mill Park is an uncomplicated drive, a perk that contributes to a hassle-free visit.
Wingate by Wyndham features complimentary breakfast areas visible from lobbies, reinforcing predictable routines for every guest. Suites add sofa seating, larger layouts, and multiple TVs, offering families or groups flexible accommodations for extended visits. Pools equipped with loungers, towels, and umbrellas create leisure spaces where families and individuals can relax or recharge daily.
Complimentary breakfast, vending setups, and Wi-Fi combine with fitness centers and parking, covering both wellness and daily routines.
The Virginia Lodge
At The Virginia Lodge, Grist Mill Park is within easy reach, a core element that allows for a more dynamic daily rhythm.
The Virginia Lodge typically offers efficient check-in, modest lobby chairs, and self-serve coffee that emphasize budget-style convenience. Guest rooms typically include plush bedding, streaming-enabled TVs, and climate control, providing both rest and entertainment options. Facilities typically present vending access, compact breakfast rooms, and guest laundries that emphasize functional routines consistently.
A stay may include Wi-Fi, vending access, modest breakfast, and laundry rooms, reinforcing straightforward consistency for budget guests.
Comfort Inn Springfield
The direct drive from Comfort Inn Springfield to Grist Mill Park in Alexandria ensures the commute is always efficient before the stay unfolds.
Comfort Inn arrival design favors direct routes from doors to elevators, keeping circulation intuitive for families and groups alike. Standard guest rooms include blackout drapes and sound-mitigating finishes to reduce early light and outside noise for more consistent sleep. Breakfast areas balance hot items, fruit, and waffle stations alongside mixed seating so early departures keep momentum without long waits.
For pet travelers, designated relief areas, pet policies, nearby green space, and pet-friendly rooms keep routines predictable.
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Washington DC - Alexandria
The hotel's location is characterized by its low-effort commute to Grist Mill Park, which is a direct run away, saving energy for the event.
By offering complimentary coffee 24/7, Red Roof Inn provides a reliable comfort that guests can count on, no matter their arrival time. The consistent quality of the signature beds across all locations means frequent guests of the brand know they can expect a good night's rest. A lobby computer kiosk with printing capabilities provides a vital service for guests needing to print boarding passes or look up directions.
Between the free coffee service, a seasonal swimming pool, guest laundry, and complimentary Wi-Fi, convenience is built into every stay.
Studio 6 Springfield Va – Washington DC Southwest
A notable advantage of Studio 6 Springfield Va – Washington DC Southwest in Alexandria is the simple drive to Grist Mill Park, making the hotel a strategic hub for a multi-purpose visit.
Studio 6 uses single-queue desk setups at busy times, minimizing cross-traffic so lines move steadily and arrival moments stay calm. Every guest room contains private bathrooms with showers or tubs, ensuring hygiene routines remain predictable during extended stays. Snack vending pairs with beverage coolers near elevators, saving time and keeping routines predictable for tired or busy guests.
Between outdoor pools, vending, and free morning coffee plus Wi-Fi, guests combine refreshment, recreation, and connectivity on property.
Courtyard by Marriott Springfield
Within Alexandria, Courtyard by Marriott Springfield keeps Grist Mill Park within easy reach, a detail that emphasizes its convenient placement.
Courtyard reinforces its identity through practical design, beverage rituals, and reception clarity, ensuring arrivals feel consistent. Guest rooms provide blackout curtains, plush bedding, and climate control, consistent details that ensure restful routines nightly. At the 24/7 Market, travelers access packaged snacks, bottled water, and frozen items, reliable details that simplify daily routines.
Amenities include indoor pools, valet parking, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi, ensuring balanced routines for both business and leisure.
Best Western Springfield
The hotel's location is designed for uncomplicated travel, with Grist Mill Park a simple drive away, ensuring a confident journey.
With ceiling placards and floor arrows, Best Western directs newcomers toward elevators and restrooms, avoiding backtracking through active lines. Guest rooms, with blackout and sheer layers, allow flexible light control for late sleepers and early risers while preserving evening unwind. Business hubs include scanners and office supplies, cutting last-minute detours while confirmations and ticket changes finalize quickly.
With Wi-Fi, business centers, meeting rooms, and EV stations where available, teams coordinate work and travel while momentum stays intact.
Comfort Inn & Suites Alexandria West
Because Comfort Inn & Suites Alexandria West keeps Grist Mill Park an uncomplicated drive, guests can decide to begin their day with a simple commute.
At arrival, Comfort Inn keeps luggage storage options at the desk so early arrivals can explore light and unencumbered while rooms are readied. Guest rooms provide ergonomic chairs and broad desktops so short work sprints or video calls happen without leaving the room. Business centers include printers, computers, and high-speed internet to enable quick boarding passes, print jobs, and last-minute prep on site.
Between free hot breakfast, coffee stations, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges, mornings fuel productivity and reduce off-site runs.
Motel 6 Springfield VA - Washington DC Southwest
Grist Mill Park is a simple drive of Motel 6 Springfield VA - Washington DC Southwest, a detail that makes the hotel a practical and well-positioned base.
At Motel 6, check-in remains streamlined with straightforward procedures, minimizing wait times and ensuring arrivals move quickly to rooms. Each guest room delivers Wi-Fi, climate control, and televisions, ensuring guests manage both leisure and comfort seamlessly throughout stays. The lobby design keeps pathways short and sightlines clear, ensuring guests locate elevators, exits, and amenities quickly on arrival.
From free morning coffee to vending and outdoor pools, plus Wi-Fi, properties sustain everyday basics that support balanced stays.
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Grist Mill Park Local Area Guide
Welcome to Grist Mill Park, a popular destination for local sports and recreation in Alexandria, Virginia. This guide is designed for players, coaches, families, and team coordinators heading to the park for tournaments, practices, or casual games. You'll find practical advice on navigating the park’s layout, understanding parking and access, discovering nearby dining and amenities, and making the most of your visit, whether you're here for a single game or a full weekend event. Our aim is to help your team or group focus on the competition while we handle the logistical planning.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Grist Mill Park (Alexandria, VA)
Grist Mill Park is situated in the northern part of Alexandria, Virginia, nestled within a suburban landscape characterized by tree-lined streets and residential neighborhoods. Its prime location offers convenient access from major roadways, making it a central hub for athletic activities in the region. The park is easily reachable via I-95/I-495 (Capital Beltway) and Route 1. Travelers arriving by air will typically use Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), which is approximately a 15-20 minute drive depending on traffic, or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), about a 30-40 minute drive. Parking within the park is generally ample, with dedicated lots serving different sections of the fields and facilities, though it can become congested during peak tournament hours. Public transportation options include bus routes serving Mt. Vernon Highway, providing a viable alternative for those not driving directly to the park, though direct access may require a short walk from the nearest stops. Smart arrival tactics suggest aiming to reach the park at least 30-45 minutes before scheduled game times, especially on busy weekends, to allow ample time for parking and team setup.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Grist Mill Park
Hotel accommodations for Grist Mill Park visitors are clustered in several key areas, primarily along the Route 1 corridor and in the Old Town Alexandria vicinity. These areas offer a range of lodging options, from budget-friendly motels to mid-range hotels that cater to families and sports teams. While many hotels are a short drive from the park, some are also within a 5-15 minute radius, making them convenient for quick access. For those who prefer to stay closer, several hotels are located just off the Capital Beltway, offering easy on-and-off access. Popular choices for visiting teams often involve hotels that offer suite-style rooms or amenities like complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, which are beneficial for groups traveling together. Booking well in advance is a strong recommendation, particularly for tournaments or during peak spring and fall sports seasons, as accommodations can fill up rapidly. Utilizing map filters on hotel booking sites can help identify properties closest to the park, and flexible dates might yield better rates, especially if events draw large crowds to the area.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is about 15-20 minutes away by car.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes before game time to secure good parking and team spots.
- Explore Old Town Alexandria for dining and historical sites during downtime.
- Consider indoor family entertainment centers or museums in Alexandria on rainy days.
- Find a picnic spot or a casual eatery for your team to regroup after games.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
As your team arrives at Grist Mill Park, focus on efficiently securing your parking spot and gathering your equipment. Plan to arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled start time, allowing buffer for navigating park entrances and finding the best location near your assigned field. Once parked, teams typically head to their designated field area to set up, which may include unfolding chairs, laying out blankets, and organizing gear. Utilize the open spaces around the fields for warm-up drills and stretches, ensuring players are ready and focused for their game. If there are specific check-in procedures or tournament headquarters, designate someone to handle that briefly upon arrival.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between games or during longer breaks, it’s essential for your group to have a comfortable place to rest, hydrate, and refuel. Many families and teams utilize the picnic tables scattered throughout the park or find shaded areas under trees or park pavilions. This downtime is perfect for enjoying packed lunches, reviewing game strategies, or simply allowing younger players to relax away from the immediate field. Keep coolers easily accessible for drinks and snacks. If the park has a concession stand, it can be a convenient spot for quick refreshments, but packing your own supplies ensures availability and can save time during busy tournament days.
Wrap-Up & Departure
After your final game concludes, allow a buffer of 15-30 minutes for packing up your team’s gear and personal belongings. Ensure all trash is collected and disposed of properly to help maintain the park's condition. Coordinate with your team for a final huddle or quick debriefing. As you prepare to depart, be mindful of the increased traffic flow within the park and exiting onto Mt. Vernon Highway. Allow extra time for navigating out, especially on busy event days, and consider the best route to your next destination, whether it’s heading back to your hotel or to a celebratory meal.
Things to Do Near Grist Mill Park
Walkable
Grist Mill Park Playground
Adjacent to the sports fields, this park offers a well-maintained playground that serves as a perfect spot for younger siblings or players needing a break from the competition. It features various play structures designed for different age groups, providing a safe and engaging environment for children to burn off energy. The playground area is usually shaded by mature trees, offering a pleasant spot for parents and guardians to supervise while keeping an eye on the ongoing games. It's a convenient amenity that enhances the family-friendly atmosphere of Grist Mill Park, ensuring there are options for entertainment beyond the sports fields themselves.
On siteGrist Mill Park Walking Trails
Within Grist Mill Park itself, a network of paved and unpaved trails winds through wooded areas and along the Accotink Creek. These trails are ideal for a light stroll, a refreshing walk, or even a gentle jog during breaks between games. They offer a peaceful escape from the activity on the fields, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural surroundings. The paths are generally flat and accessible, making them suitable for most fitness levels. Following these trails can provide a sense of calm and a different perspective on the park’s environment, a welcome change of pace for athletes and their families.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Pohick Bay Golf Club
Located a short drive from Grist Mill Park, Pohick Bay Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole public golf course set amidst rolling hills and scenic views. This course is known for its well-maintained fairways and greens, providing an enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Amenities include a pro shop and a clubhouse with dining options, making it a great place to visit before or after a sports event, or for a foursome looking for a different kind of outdoor activity. It's a popular spot for both casual players and serious golfers in the Northern Virginia area.
6.5 miMount Vernon
Step back in time at George Washington's historic estate, Mount Vernon. This iconic landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into 18th-century American life, featuring the Mansion, extensive gardens, and educational exhibits. Visitors can explore the estate grounds, learn about Washington's life and legacy, and enjoy scenic views of the Potomac River. It provides an excellent opportunity for families and teams to engage in a bit of history and culture, offering a relaxing and educational outing away from the sports fields. Plan for at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the experience.
4.9 miBeyond the Event: While Grist Mill Park itself is primarily a sports facility, the surrounding Fairfax County and Alexandria area offers a wealth of attractions. From historic sites like Mount Vernon to outdoor recreational opportunities along the Potomac River, there are plenty of ways to extend your visit. Consider exploring the vibrant dining and shopping scene in Old Town Alexandria for a different kind of local experience.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Grist Mill Park
Inside & Adjacent
Park Concessions
Available during organized events and tournaments, the park’s concession stand offers convenient snacks and drinks for players and spectators. Items typically include hot dogs, pretzels, chips, candy, and a variety of beverages. It’s a quick and easy option for grabbing a bite without leaving the park grounds, perfect for fueling up between games or for parents cheering from the sidelines. Availability and hours of operation can vary depending on the event schedule, so it’s advisable to check ahead if you are relying on this option.
On sitePicnic Areas
Grist Mill Park features several designated picnic areas equipped with tables and often grills, providing an ideal setting for teams and families to enjoy their own packed meals. These spots are perfect for larger groups to gather, especially during multi-game days or tournaments. Bringing your own food allows for dietary flexibility and can be a more cost-effective option for feeding a team. Remember to bring any necessary serving utensils and cleanup supplies, and utilize the provided trash receptacles to keep the park tidy.
On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Five Guys
A popular choice for casual dining, Five Guys offers customizable burgers, hot dogs, and fries in a lively atmosphere. It’s a go-to spot for teams and families looking for a quick, satisfying meal after a game. The straightforward menu and generous portions make it easy to please a variety of tastes. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and ample topping options ensures a delicious and filling experience for everyone, often providing a welcome break from pre-game nutrition.
1.2 miStarbucks
For coffee lovers and those needing a mid-day pick-me-up, Starbucks provides a familiar and comfortable environment. Located conveniently close to the park, it offers a range of coffee and tea beverages, as well as pastries and light snacks. It’s a great spot for parents to grab a coffee while watching games or for a group to gather for a quick refreshment before or after their sporting activities. The reliable Wi-Fi can also be a bonus for checking schedules or catching up on emails.
1.1 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Magnolia's on King
Located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Magnolia's on King offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on Southern-inspired cuisine. This upscale restaurant is ideal for team dinners or celebrations after a successful tournament. Their menu features a variety of seafood, steak, and creative pasta dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list. The charming ambiance of Old Town adds to the appeal, making it a destination for those looking for a more refined culinary outing. Reservations are highly recommended.
4.5 miTheismann Restaurant & Sports Bar
Named after the legendary NFL quarterback Joe Theismann, this establishment offers a classic sports bar atmosphere with a menu of American favorites. It’s a fitting choice for sports teams looking to relax and enjoy a meal in a setting that celebrates athletic achievement. You’ll find a wide selection of burgers, sandwiches, and entrees, alongside a comprehensive list of beers on tap. The multiple screens broadcasting live games make it a lively spot for post-game analysis or simply enjoying the sports vibe.
3.8 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Mt. Vernon Highway can be heavy during weekday rush hours and weekend event peaks; plan accordingly.
- Tournament weekends mean prime field space fills quickly; arrive early for team setup and parking.
- Many local eateries in Alexandria offer family meal deals, perfect for feeding a team on a budget.
- Consider Old Town Alexandria for evening dining and exploring, but be aware of parking challenges there.
- Check local event calendars for other activities happening in Alexandria that might impact traffic or hotel availability.
Weather & Seasons at Grist Mill Park
- Winter: Winter in Alexandria typically brings cool to cold temperatures, with average highs in the 40s and lows often dipping below freezing. Visitors should pack warm layers, including jackets, hats, and gloves, especially for early morning or late afternoon games. The ground may be damp or frozen, affecting footing on fields and trails, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is recommended. While snow is possible, it's not a daily occurrence, but a fresh snowfall can temporarily close fields.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer offer some of the most pleasant weather for Grist Mill Park. Temperatures are generally mild to warm, ranging from the 60s to the 80s. Light jackets or sweatshirts may be needed for cooler mornings and evenings, while lighter clothing is suitable for daytime play. Humidity begins to rise, so staying hydrated is important. These seasons are prime time for outdoor sports, with sunshine being common but occasional spring showers possible.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer (July and August) is characterized by hot and humid conditions, with daytime temperatures frequently reaching the 80s and 90s, and heat indexes sometimes exceeding 100°F. Light, breathable clothing is essential, along with sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to prevent heat-related issues. Seek shade during breaks, and be aware of potential afternoon thunderstorms. While outdoor activity is common, it's wise to schedule games during cooler parts of the day.
- Fall season: The fall season brings relief from summer heat, with temperatures gradually cooling from warm to crisp, typically ranging from the 50s to the 70s. This is an ideal time for sports, with clear skies and comfortable conditions. Layers are advisable, as mornings can be cool and afternoons pleasantly warm. The vibrant fall foliage adds to the scenic beauty of the park. While rain is still a possibility, extended periods of dry, mild weather are common.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur in any season at Grist Mill Park, sometimes leading to field closures depending on the severity and impact on drainage. Visitors should always check for any weather-related advisories or cancellations issued by park management. Snowfall is less common but can occur during winter months, potentially impacting access and play. Be prepared for slippery conditions on pathways and parking lots following rain or snow events.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Local youth sports leagues, travel teams
- Neighborhood: Hybla Valley / Mount Vernon area
- Nearest airport: Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)
- Parking: Dedicated lots for fields, can fill up quickly
- Walkable district: Park itself, limited surrounding sidewalks
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Several shopping centers nearby on Richmond Highway
- Pharmacy: CVS and Walgreens within a 1-2 mile radius
- Urgent care: Patient First - Alexandria nearby
- Downtime: Grist Mill Park playground, local cafes
- Pro tip: Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially for summer tournaments.

