McLean Corporate Traveller Guide

Staying in McLean, USA

McLean is a small suburb located in Fairfax Country, just 10 miles from Washington D.C. Established in 1910, McLean gets its name from a one-time publisher of The Washington Post, John Mclean, who was responsible for a rail link connecting the area to Washington D.C. The line, that still exists today, helped to grow many of the surrounding neighborhoods and counties.  

Known as one of Norther Virginia’s most desirable and wealthiest neighborhoods, McLean offers a safe, quiet community with an outstanding school district and links to the city for business or entertainment. Recognised as an upscale residence, its proximity to the city and key government buildings and organisations lends the location to diplomats, government officials, members of congress and business executives. With several parks, trails, and local neighborhood restaurants and shops, all within a 15-minute drive from the US capital, McLean offers the best of both worlds. 

If you have a business trip scheduled for McLean this year, or you're making a permanent move to this popular corporate travel destination, here are the essentials you need to familiarise yourself with before setting off. 

Visiting McLean - Key Information

Weather in McLean

McLean tends to be warm and temperate, with notable precipitation levels even during the drier months. During the summer, Mclean’s inviting weather averages a daily temperature of 25°C with highs reaching 30°C. In contrast to this, during the snowy winter months the temperature can drop below freezing.  

With this in mind, a varied and adaptable wardrobe is necessary! We recommend a good winter coat and boots to brave the cold between December and March, but don’t forget to pack your light, summer outfits for May to September. 

Currency in McLean

US Dollar (USD)

In McLean, USA, the currency used is the United States Dollar (USD). Both Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, and you can also use American Express (AMEX) in some places. Instances where you may need physical cash are quite limited. These include situations like needing coins for parking meters or laundry machines, making small purchases at local stores with minimum card payment requirements, and occasionally, some local taxis may not accept card payments.

Regarding tipping or gratuity in restaurants, it's generally considered optional, and you can add it to your card payment. Typical gratuity ranges from 10% to 15%. However, it's often preferred to leave cash tips for waitstaff in restaurants. Cash tips are also customary when showing appreciation for excellent service from hotel staff or in establishments like salons and barbershops.

Health & Well-being in McLean

McLean’s mild temperature and natural landscape lends the city ideally for outdoor exercise, so you’re in the right place if you like walking, hiking, or running. Home to the majestic waters of Great Falls Park, McLean offers various outdoor walking and hiking trails with beautiful landscape views. Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is an important ecological hotspot located next to the Potomac River with an impressive range of trials to choose from. With over 336-acres of woodland, these trails are waiting to be explored – keep an eye out for all the growing wildlife.  

For those who prefer an indoor workout, McLean Racquet and Health Club is a fitness centre offering tennis, aquatics, squash and gym access, as well as group classes and personal training. This is a family-friendly club with a variety of membership options. The Orangetheory Fitness centre also offers a range of classes and is the perfect place to meet fellow fitness buffs. 

Cuisine & Dining in McLean

Mclean’s food scene offers an impressive variety of cuisines including Mediterranean, Asian and Italian, as well as classic American home-style dishes. From stellar steakhouses and Turkish restaurants to cosy cafés and New York delis, you’ll always find a new cuisine to enjoy in McLean.  

The must-try restaurants include J.Gilbert’s Wood Fired Steaks and Seafood – the perfect place to tuck into a classic surf and turf – and Et Voila, a contemporary Belgian/French bistro with a friendly neighborhood feel, perfect for any occasion big or small.  

Transport in McLean

The Fairfax Connector operates several bus routes that connect McLean to neighboring areas and the Washington Metro system. As the largest local bus system in the Northern Virginia region, the Fairfax Connector is the easiest and most efficient way to travel into Washington D.C.  

While McLean itself doesn't have a metro station, the Silver Line of the Washington Metro serves nearby areas. The closest metro station to McLean is the McLean Station, which is actually located in Tysons Corner, offering access to the metro system to travel to surrounding areas or to Washington D.C.  

If you're relocating to McLean or preparing for an extended trip, it may be worthwhile purchasing a SmarTrip card. This card can be used on all Metrorail stations as well as Metrobuses and regional bus providers, making travelling in McLean a breeze.  

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available, providing convenient options for point-to-point transportation. 

Activities in McLean

As a popular tourist destination, McLean offers a variety of activities and experiences. With a strong sense of community and charm, this Virginia suburb has deep-rooted history of culture including Fort Marcy Park, which is one of the only forts to survive after the Civil War and is a must see for history enthusiasts!  

If you're looking for the best retail outlets, Tysons Galleria is an upscale shopping and dining experience with some of the world’s most luxurious retailers and boutiques. Tysons Corner Center offers more brands and is McLean’s biggest shopping location. 

With a small art scene in the community, make sure to check out the McLean Project for the Arts. Founded in 1962 by a group of artists, the gallery has since expanded into a key McLean institution. Here you’ll find magnificent paintings, sculptures, photos and installations. 

McLean Map

Now that you have brushed up on the McLean essentials, browse our full selection of serviced apartments to make your trip a relaxing one and get in touch to book today.  

With a variety of restaurant cuisines to try, nature trails to explore and activities to experience, McLean is a vibrant suburb with a close community and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re relocating or on an extended business trip, SilverDoor will find the perfect corporate housing for you.