Explore Burke through several historical traces: a road marker documents a Civil War event, while another commemorates African American woodcutters and teamsters. Railroad history, churches, and a former racetrack add to the picture. Nearby, golf offers another kind of recreation. The following information can help you plan a stay in Burke around these interests.

Historical Traces in Burke

The historic Burke Station marker is located on Old Burke Lake Road (Route 8249), 0.01 miles north of Burke Road (Route 652). It documents a raid by Confederate General J. E. B. Stuart in December 1862. As road-marker locations can change due to routine changes along the roadside, it is a good idea to check the location shortly before your visit.

The “Burke's Station Wood Choppers and Teamsters” marker commemorates the contributions of African American woodcutters and teamsters during the Civil War. The two marker stories emphasize different things: one records a specific event, while the other honors a group and its contributions.

Railroad history includes Burke’s donation of land to the Orange & Alexandria Railroad. The railroad named a station after him: first “Burke’s Station,” later simply “Burke.”

Lee Chapel Cemetery is at the corner of Lee Chapel Road and Fairfax County Parkway. Lee Chapel was built in 1871 and served for many years as a center for worship and community life for numerous long-established Fairfax County families. Little Zion Baptist Church was founded in 1891.

Burke Lake Park opened in 1963 on land the federal government had originally acquired for Burke International Airport. A Fairfax County historical marker was unveiled in 2016 at the former site of the Copperthite Race Track in Burke. The racetrack opened on July 4, 1908; its grandstand could accommodate 2,000 people. The track hosted horse, harness, motorcycle, and automobile races.

Recreation Nearby

Near Burke, Burke Lake Golf Center is a lightly wooded, 18-hole par-3 course for golfers of all skill levels. Also nearby, Burke Lake Mini Golf offers a wide selection of club sizes for players from age two through adulthood. The activities differ in format: one is a par-3 course, while the other is miniature golf with a range of club sizes.

Ticketing information and seasonal opening hours may change. Check the latest details before your visit.

Walking and Cycling

Burke Centre VRE Connector Phase IV, a bicycle and pedestrian project, was completed on March 20, 2022. It was intended to provide pedestrians and cyclists with a connection from Burke VRE Station to the residential areas west of Oak Leather Drive.

Discover more destinations: Herndon, Centreville, Chantilly, Vienna, Annandale, Lorton, Reston, Mclean.

For the broader travel overview: Fairfax County.