Lake Anne

Lake Anne, sometimes referred to as Lake Anne Village, is the original shopping plaza in Reston, Virginia. Designed by architect James Rossant in the 1960s for town founder Robert E. Simon, Lake Anne was conceptualized as a modern example of New Urbanism. The developers sought to create quality homes while preserving as much of the natural enclosure as possible.

The area is situated around an artificial lake that is used to provide a natural coolant to many of the homes surrounding the lake. It is also a pedestrian-friendly community with a combination of residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. Its layout and planning echoes the “Live, Work, and Play” motto of Lake Anne. This statement rings true for residents, who enjoy a high quality of life in a scenic environment.

What You'll Love About Lake Anne

• A scenic lake: Life in the village revolves around Lake Anne, a 119-acre man-made lake with benches and other outdoor amenities. The Lake Anne Trail is a 1.7-mile loop that circles the water and passes through some of Reston's most picturesque neighborhoods while the Van Gogh Bridge is one of the best spots to view weeping cherry blossom trees in the spring and snap a selfie.

  The lake's waters are teeming with carp, catfish, and striped and largemouth bass, making it a popular fishing spot. Visitors can also explore the lake by kayak or canoe and you can even rent a paddle boat at Lake Anne Plaza.

• Artsy play structures: Lake Anne Plaza is filled with play structures and interactive public art that the kids will enjoy. These include the Swing, Plaza Fountain, Sun Boat, and Wooden Horse. For adults, the Lookout Tower commands sweeping views of the lake while the Decorative Icons on the exterior of the Lakeside Pharmacy present a fantastic photo-op.
• Local shopping and dining: Lake Anne Plaza is home to several specialty stores that sell chocolates, pretzels, used books, apparel, and cycling gear. The Reston Farmers Market takes place each Saturday and offers an assortment of fresh produce, seafood, meat, cheese, and bread.

  When it comes to dining, Cafe Montmartre serves French and Vietnamese dishes; Lake Anne Brew House specializes in small-batch craft beers with an outdoor patio; Lake Anne Coffee House & Wine Bar has a chef-driven menu with house wines and amazing coffee; and La Migueleña Market offers classic Mexican fare and Kalypsos Sports Bar is a great place to unwind while overlooking the lake.

• A rich and colorful history: The historic village center of Lake Anne Plaza was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2017 and harbors several landmarks, including Untold Stories, a statue depicting founder Robert E. Simon as a genial old man on a bench by the lake.
• More art and culture: The Lake Anne Community Center hosts art exhibitions at the JoAnn Rose and 3D galleries while Reston Art Gallery and Studios (RAGS) features rotating exhibits and studio space.

Real Estate In Lake Anne

As one of the most desirable areas in Reston, Lake Anne offers a historic vibe and attracts many homebuyers who appreciate the original architecture that is offered around the Lake. Real Estate around the Lake primarily consists of condos and townhomes, though buyers will still find a number of single-family homes. The town also opened Lake Anne House, a 240-unit apartment complex for seniors, in late 2022. Many of the homes in the area feature Modernist, Traditional, and Contemporary architecture. The most desirable properties in Lake Anne offer plenty of living space and back into wooded areas.