Hybla Valley - Alexandria, VA

Hybla Valley, located in Fairfax County, has a rich history that dates back to its origins as part of the Mason family's Hollin Hall plantation. In the 19th century, the land was owned by Thomson Dairy, and later, in the early 20th century, it was transformed into suburban neighborhoods by Merle Thorpe. Interestingly, there were plans to build the world's largest civilian airport on this land, but these plans were abandoned, and the area became Huntley Meadows Park, a beautiful natural reserve.

During World War II, the area saw significant development, including the creation of the Hollin Hills subdivision, designed by Charles Goodman and Robert Davenport. This neighborhood became known for its modernist architecture. Additionally, the land around Hollin Hall was once considered for purchase by the princess of Norway during the war, with President Roosevelt personally inspecting it. Over the years, Hybla Valley has evolved, with its west side developing into a bustling area, including the construction of Mount Vernon Plaza in 2002.

Hybla Valley boasts a variety of dining options ranging from Latin to European cuisines. If you're in the mood for Southern comfort food, Della J’s serves up hearty meals in a cozy setting. For those craving pizza, Mamma’s Kitchen provides wood-fired options in a charming patio setting. Additionally, Pollo Campero offers Guatemalan-style fried or grilled chicken, bringing a spicy twist with its generations-old recipes.

Getting around Hybla Valley is easy. Major roads like Route 1 and the I-495 Beltway help you drive to nearby cities quickly. If you don't want to drive, you can use the Metrobus service, which has routes through the area. This makes it simple to get to work or visit nearby places.

Hybla Valley is also close to Alexandria and Washington, D.C., where you can catch the Metrorail for longer trips. For biking or walking, there are trails and parks with nice paths. These options make getting around Hybla Valley convenient and enjoyable for everyone.

Hybla Valley Park is on Lockheed Boulevard and has tennis courts and walking paths. Huntley Meadows Park is also on Lockheed Boulevard and is the biggest park in Fairfax County. It has a wetland with a boardwalk where you see a variety of wildlife, as well as a visitor center and hiking trails. Both parks are perfect for relaxing, playing sports, or just enjoying the beauty of nature.

In Hybla Valley, you'll find a variety of shops to explore. The area features several shopping centers, including Mount Vernon Plaza, which offers a mix of retail stores, dining options, and services. You can find popular stores like TJ Maxx and Walmart for everyday shopping needs. Additionally, there are unique spots like Thrifty's Thrift Store Center and Urban Redeux for those who enjoy thrifting and vintage finds.