Honestly, if you live in Northern Virginia and haven't spent a Saturday morning at Van Dyck Park Fairfax Virginia, you’re missing out on the literal heartbeat of the city. It’s not just some patch of grass with a swing set. It’s 20 acres (well, closer to 30 if you count the surrounding wooded parcels) of everything from high-energy skate sessions to quiet, leafy trail walks.
Located at 3720 Blenheim Boulevard—which, for the old-timers, was Old Lee Highway until fairly recently—the park sits right next to the police station. Talk about feeling safe while your kids run wild.
What’s Actually There?
The setup is kinda genius. You've got these three distinct playground areas. Most parks just dump one giant plastic structure in the middle and call it a day, but here, the equipment is spread out and catered to different age groups. There’s a fenced-in area for the toddlers, which is a lifesaver if you have a "runner."
Then there’s the sports. It’s got:
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- Lighted tennis and basketball courts (perfect for when the sun sets early in the winter).
- Sand volleyball courts that actually feel like real sand, not just dirt.
- A skate park that is... well, it’s intense. It’s a modular setup with steel ramps on concrete. Word of advice: those steel ramps get hot in July. Like, fry-an-egg-on-your-board hot.
If you're more into the "chill" side of things, the walking trail is roughly a half-mile loop. It’s mostly paved and shaded by massive, mature trees. You’ll see plenty of people walking dogs or doing that power-walking thing with the hand weights.
The Secret History of the Name
Most people just call it Van Dyck and don't think twice. But the park is actually named after Everett Calvin Van Dyck. He was the City Attorney back in the late 50s.
Basically, he was the guy who helped Fairfax City win its independence from Fairfax County in 1959. That was a huge deal. Sadly, he died of a heart attack in 1967 at just 52 years old. The city council was so grateful for his work that they named the park after him before it was even finished.
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The $16 Million Face-Lift
If you’ve been lately, you might have noticed things look a little "in progress." As of early 2026, the city is neck-deep in a massive Master Plan update. We’re talking about roughly $16 million being poured into this place over the next couple of years.
The goal is to turn it into the "communal living room" of Fairfax. They’re adding a more modern skate plaza, better trail connections, and even more play structures. Some of the funding was pushed back a bit in the budget meetings, but the momentum is there.
Dealing with the Parking Nightmare
Look, I’m gonna be real with you: parking on a Saturday morning is a mess. The lot is shared with the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center and the police department. If there’s a wedding or a community event at the Sherwood Center, you’re basically fighting for your life to find a spot.
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Pro tip: If the main lot is full, check the surrounding street parking or try to time your visit for early morning. The park opens at sunrise and closes at sunset, but the lighted courts stay on later—usually until 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM depending on the season and city ordinances.
The Restroom Situation (It’s Weirdly Good)
I know, talking about park bathrooms is usually gross. But Van Dyck has these solar-powered restrooms that are surprisingly clean. They use a scan-to-enter system sometimes, which feels a bit like you’re entering a spaceship, but hey, it keeps the vandals out.
Quick Facts for Your Visit
- Grilling: Yes, you can. There are designated grills and a large pavilion. You have to reserve the pavilion in advance through the City of Fairfax Parks and Rec website.
- Dogs: Allowed, but keep them on a leash. The trails are great for them, and there are water fountains specifically designed for dogs.
- The Creek: There’s a small stream/creek area. Kids love to throw rocks in it, but just watch out for mosquitoes in the late summer. They are brutal near the water.
- Skate Park Rules: Technically, pads and helmets are required. Since the police station is literally next door, you'd think they'd be strict, but honestly, enforcement is pretty hit-or-miss. Still, don't be that person—wear a helmet.
Why It Matters Now
With the Willard-Sherwood Health and Community Center project currently under construction nearby, the whole area is transforming. This isn't just a neighborhood park anymore; it’s becoming a regional hub.
Whether you’re there to watch your kid finally land a kickflip or you just need a quiet place to eat a sandwich from De Clieu Coffee (which is just down the road), Van Dyck delivers. It’s got that "old Fairfax" charm mixed with some very expensive new upgrades.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check the Calendar: Before you go, check the City of Fairfax website to see if the Sherwood Center has a major event. If they do, skip the car and take the CUE bus (Gold Route) or ride a bike.
- Reserve Early: If you’re planning a birthday party for the spring, you need to book the pavilion at least 4-6 months out. It fills up fast.
- Gear Up: If you’re hitting the skate park in the summer, go before 10:00 AM. After that, the metal ramps turn into a toaster oven.
- Explore the Trails: Don't just stay by the playground. Follow the paved path into the wooded section toward the back for a much quieter experience.