Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor

Nestled within the scenic landscape of Burke Lake Park, the Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor is a favorite destination for locals seeking a sweet treat. Located in Fairfax Station, this charming parlor provides a delightful break from a day of outdoor activities, offering a classic selection of ice cream, snacks, and drinks. It serves as a central hub for families and friends enjoying the park, and its location near many of the park's main attractions makes it a convenient and popular stop.

The parlor is more than just a place to get ice cream; it's a nostalgic part of the overall Burke Lake Park experience. Its design, which includes train-themed decor and a menu board that resembles an old-fashioned arrival and departure sign, pays homage to the park's popular miniature train ride. This creates a fun and memorable atmosphere that adds to the overall family-friendly appeal of the location.

As a local institution, the ice cream parlor is an integral part of the park's appeal. It provides a simple yet effective way to cool down during Virginia's warm summers or to grab a quick snack before continuing on a hike or a bike ride. Its seasonal operating hours align with the park's busiest times, ensuring it's open when locals need it most.

The Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor is situated within the expansive Burke Lake Park in Fairfax Station, Virginia. Its specific address is 7315 Ox Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, USA. The parlor is strategically placed near some of the park's most popular attractions, making it a natural gathering point. Visitors will find it conveniently located close to the miniature train station, the carousel, and a children's playground.

Parking is readily available throughout Burke Lake Park. On weekends and holidays from April to late October, a fee is charged for non-Fairfax County residents to enter the park, but entry is free for residents. The park itself is open from sunrise to sunset daily. While the park is generally accessible for various abilities, specific information regarding the parlor's accessibility features, such as ramps or specific seating, should be verified by contacting the park directly. The location's close proximity to other amusements means that it's often a short and easy walk from these popular spots.

While the location is well-integrated into the park's layout, it's worth noting that the parlor's operating hours are seasonal and may vary. It's always a good idea to check the Fairfax County Park Authority website for the most up-to-date schedule before planning your visit, especially during the spring and fall seasons when hours can be more limited to weekends.

The Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor provides a selection of treats and refreshments to complement your day at the park. The offerings focus on classic, crowd-pleasing options that are perfect for a family outing.

• Ice Cream: The main attraction, with a variety of flavors typically available. You can expect a selection of scoops perfect for a hot day. The options are generally straightforward and family-friendly, catering to a wide range of tastes.

• Snacks: In addition to ice cream, the parlor sells other grab-and-go snacks. These can be a great option for a quick bite after an activity or for a boost of energy before the next one.

• Drinks: A variety of beverages are available to help you stay hydrated, including bottled drinks like sodas, water, and Gatorade. This is particularly helpful after walking the lake trail or playing at the playground.

The Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor is more than just a food stand. It's an experience in itself, with several unique features that make it a special spot for park visitors.

• Proximity to Attractions: Its location is one of its biggest advantages. It is directly next to the miniature train station and the carousel, making it easy to grab a treat before or after a ride. A playground is also located just behind the parlor, so parents can relax and enjoy their ice cream while watching their children play.

• Train-Themed Decor: The interior is playfully decorated with train-themed elements, creating a fun atmosphere. The menu board is designed to look like a vintage train station schedule, which is a charming touch that adds to the overall park theme.

• Sheltered Seating: The parlor has sheltered outdoor seating, providing a place to sit down and enjoy your treat while staying out of the sun or a light drizzle. This seating area is located next to Shelter D, which can also be rented for birthday parties and other small gatherings.

• Convenient Restrooms: Restrooms are accessible directly from inside the parlor, as well as from the outside, which is a useful convenience for families with small children or anyone who needs a quick break.

For general inquiries about the Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor and its operations, you can contact the main Burke Lake Park office.

Address: 7315 Ox Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, USA

Phone: 703-323-6600

For the most current information regarding hours of operation, seasonal closures, and any special events, it is best to visit the official Fairfax County Park Authority website for Burke Lake Park.

The Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor is a quintessential part of the local experience in Fairfax Station and the broader Northern Virginia area. Its integration into the beloved Burke Lake Park makes it a perfect stop during a day of family fun. After a long walk on the 4.7-mile trail that circles the lake, a round of mini-golf, or a ride on the miniature train, nothing beats a classic scoop of ice cream. It provides a simple, enjoyable break that adds to the memories made at the park.

The parlor's proximity to playgrounds, the train, and the carousel makes it a strategic and convenient location for parents and children alike. It's a place where families can regroup, cool down, and recharge before their next adventure. While some have noted concerns about customer service and the prevalence of yellow jackets, the overall value of the ice cream parlor comes from its role as a key amenity within a cherished community park.

The Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor is not just about the ice cream itself; it's about the entire experience it facilitates. It's a central point for birthday parties, a reward for a child after a successful fishing trip, and a simple pleasure that enhances a day spent enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings of Burke Lake. For anyone in the Virginia region looking for a simple, fun, and family-friendly activity, this ice cream parlor is a sweet part of what makes Burke Lake Park a local treasure.

Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor

7315 Ox Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, USA