The Woodlands in Fairfax, VA

Save

  • Interior

    A spacious and well-lit salon interior featuring styling chairs, mirrors, and hair products.
  • Outdoors

    View from a balcony overlooking lush green trees.
  • Decor

    A cozy living room with elegant seating and natural light streaming through the curtains.
  • Architecture

    A modern residential apartment complex with brick architecture and landscaped surroundings.
  • Dining

    An elegant dining room with neatly arranged tables and ornate chandeliers.
  • Landscaping

    A wooden bridge leading into a lush forest area.
  • Lighting

    A cozy library with wooden bookshelves and a dining table surrounded by chairs, accented with plants and warm lighting.
  • Artwork

    A beautifully furnished dining room with a long table set for a formal dinner, decorated with a floral centerpiece and illuminated by an elegant chandelier.
  • Floor Plan

    A floor plan showing various rooms including a sunroom, living room, bedroom, dining area, kitchen, laundry room, den, powder room, and bath.
  • Chandelier

    An elegant dining room with a large table set for guests and a chandelier overhead.
  • Exercise Equipment

    A well-equipped gym with various exercise machines and treadmills.
  • Swimming Pool

    An indoor swimming pool and hot tub area with relaxation amenities.

The Woodlands in Fairfax, VA

4320 Forest Hill Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.4 from 37 reviews
5 stars
29
4 stars
3
3 stars
0
2 stars
1
1 stars
4

Independent Living

The Woodlands Costs & Pricing

In The Woodlands, the monthly costs for housing reflect a competitive yet distinctive market compared to both Fairfax City and the broader state of Virginia. For a one-bedroom apartment, residents can expect to pay approximately $4,932, which is notably lower than the average cost in Fairfax City at $6,172 but slightly higher than the Virginia state average of $4,257. The two-bedroom units follow a similar trend - available at $6,451 in The Woodlands, this price is more affordable than Fairfax City's $7,570 while still exceeding Virginia's average cost of $4,602. Overall, The Woodlands offers appealing options for those seeking a balanced blend of quality living at rates that are generally more accessible than those found in neighboring jurisdictions.

Floor plansThe WoodlandsFairfax cityVirginia
1 Bedroom$4,932$6,172$4,257
2 Bedrooms$6,451$7,570$4,602

Overall Review of The Woodlands

Pros

  • pro The Woodlands is a superb venue, often felt to be more like a country club than a retirement community.
  • pro Its amenities and common spaces are luxurious.
  • pro The food is outstanding, and the dining experience is like that of a fine restaurant.
  • pro Ellen Limburg, the Executive Director, is knowledgeable and straightforward.
  • pro Residents and staff are welcoming, friendly, and caring.
  • pro The community fosters strong friendships and a warm, engaging atmosphere.
  • pro The facilities are first-rate, immaculately clean, and well maintained.
  • pro There is a wide array of activities and outings for residents to enjoy.
  • pro The Woodlands provides a Ritz-Carlton?level experience in retirement living.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer states the management is horrible and would not send a loved one there.
  • pro The reviewer describes the staff and administrators as extremely incompetent, apathetic, careless, inefficient, and unprofessional.
  • pro A reviewer reports unresolved maintenance problems, including a blocked kitchen sink and delays in repairs.
  • pro A reviewer notes that noise from upstairs was not addressed, disturbing residents.
  • pro A reviewer recounts an aggressive, possibly racist interaction with a front desk staff member.
  • pro A reviewer criticizes the dining staff for lack of training and a disorganized, unprofessional environment.

Review

The Woodlands in Fairfax is best suited for active, social seniors who want a resort-like retirement experience: elegant apartments, plentiful dining options, and a calendar of excursions and activities that can fill every day. This community shines for families seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle with generous on-site amenities, from a pool and gym to a theater, library, and multiple dining venues, all anchored by attentive staff and a welcoming resident culture. It's particularly appealing to those who value consistently high-quality meals, vibrant programming, and the reassurance that transportation to appointments or outings is readily available. For couples who want to stay connected through frequent events and outings, this campus delivers a robust social ecosystem and a sense of polish that can transform everyday living into a continuous vacation.

Yet The Woodlands may not be the right fit for everyone. Prospective residents who prioritize a quieter, more intimate atmosphere, or who are very budget-conscious, may find other options more aligned with their pace and price point. Likewise, families seeking a facility with guaranteed, high-touch coordinated care or a tightly predictable maintenance track record should scrutinize alternatives, as a minority of reviews flag significant management and service gaps. Those who require consistent, near-immediate maintenance response, or who are sensitive to noise and cross-floor disturbances, may want to compare other communities where service reliability and resident quietude are more uniformly delivered.

On balance, the strongest positives - exceptional dining, a luxurious, well-maintained campus, and a warm, family-like staff - tend to offset most downsides for most residents. The five-course dining experiences and adaptable menus are repeatedly praised, and the dining team's attentiveness - and their willingness to accommodate special requests - meets the expectations set by the property's upscale ambiance. The grounds, outdoor spaces, and raised garden beds offer daily opportunities for gentle activity, strolls, and a tactile connection to nature. Residents consistently highlight the ease of life here: move-in processes that feel seamless, rooms that feel like comfortable apartments, and staff who know residents by name and respond to requests with a sense of genuine care.

Where the concerns surface, they deserve careful consideration. A subset of reviews describes management as inept or unresponsive, with criticism directed at how issues are handled, documented, and resolved. Maintenance delays - sometimes substantial - have been a recurring complaint, including troublesome fixtures and noise disturbances that residents felt went unaddressed for too long. There are also mentions of uneven training among dining staff and front-desk interactions that, in a few cases, underscored a mismatch between the community's polished image and the day-to-day experience. While these accounts are not universal, they establish a discernible risk: for families whose bottom line includes consistent reliability and seamless issue resolution, a thorough on-site evaluation is essential before committing.

The key to leveraging The Woodlands' strengths while mitigating its risks lies in due diligence. Prospects should tour with a critical eye: talk to current residents about maintenance response times, observe dining service during peak periods, and verify how care coordination works if assisted options are needed down the line. Ask for recent examples of service improvements, inquire about staff training programs, and request candid references from families with similar care needs. Given the campus's breadth of amenities and its strong social fabric, the decision hinges on whether luxury, mobility, and an expansive activity roster outweigh occasional administrative hiccups and the potential for maintenance delays.

In sum, The Woodlands stands as a standout choice for those seeking a refined, activity-rich lifestyle in the DC metro area. It delivers on ambiance, dining excellence, and a welcoming community that many families rightly prize. For residents who prize reliability, quiet living, and consistently swift issue resolution, it pays to press for specifics during visits and to compare with alternatives that emphasize steadier operations. When the balance tips toward a premium, social, resort-like living experience - and when the family is comfortable with a community that occasionally experiences administrative growing pains - the Woodlands remains a compelling, high-quality option.

Features

Types of Care

  • Independent Living Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Pets

  • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
  • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

Amenities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • Bath tubs Bath tubsBath tubs are important for seniors because they provide a safe and relaxing way to bathe, helping to prevent slips and falls while promoting independence and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Fireplaces FireplacesFireplaces are important for seniors as they provide warmth, comfort, and a cozy atmosphere that can help alleviate the physical discomforts of aging, such as arthritis and poor circulation. Additionally, fireplaces offer a sense of nostalgia and security, making seniors feel more at home and relaxed in their living environment.
  • Full kitchen Full kitchenHaving a full kitchen in a senior living facility is important for seniors because it allows them to maintain their independence and prepare their own meals. This promotes healthy eating habits, saves money on dining out, and provides a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents.
  • Garden view Garden viewGarden views are important for seniors as they provide natural beauty and tranquility, promoting relaxation and overall well-being. Access to green spaces can also encourage outdoor activity and socialization, enhancing physical and mental health.
  • Ground floor units Ground floor unitsGround floor units are important for seniors because they provide easy accessibility, reduced risk of falls and injuries, and convenience for those with mobility issues. Seniors can avoid climbing stairs or using elevators, making daily tasks and activities more manageable and enjoyable.
  • Handicap accessible Handicap accessible"Handicap accessible" amenities are crucial for seniors to ensure they can easily navigate and access facilities, services, and activities without barriers or limitations due to physical impairments. This promotes independence, safety, and inclusivity for seniors in senior living communities.
  • Private patio, deck, or balcony Private patio, deck, or balconyHaving a private patio, deck, or balcony is crucial for seniors living in a retirement community as it provides them with access to fresh air, natural light, and the outdoors without having to leave their home. This outdoor space can promote physical activity, mental well-being, and socialization opportunities for seniors, contributing to an overall improved quality of life.
  • Respite or short term stays offered Respite or short term stays offeredRespite or short term stays provide seniors with a temporary solution when their regular caregiver is unavailable, offering them the opportunity to receive additional care and support during times of need, while also giving caregivers a chance to rest and recharge.
  • Swimming pool / hot tub Swimming pool / hot tubSwimming pools and hot tubs are important for seniors as they provide a safe and enjoyable way to stay active, improve mobility, reduce joint pain, and promote relaxation. Regular use of these amenities can contribute to overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Wheelchair accessible showers Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Washington Dulles International (9 miles away) Washington Dulles International (9 miles away)
  • Ronald Reagan Washington National (17 miles away) Ronald Reagan Washington National (17 miles away)

Dining

  • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.

Activities

  • Art classes Art classesArt classes are important for seniors because they provide a creative outlet, improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, promote socialization, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Cooking classes Cooking classesCooking classes are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, enhance cognitive skills, promote healthy eating habits, and boost confidence in the kitchen.
  • Day trips and outings Day trips and outingsDay trips and outings are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and a break from daily routines. These experiences can enhance overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Devotional activities offsite Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.
  • Devotional activities on-site Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.
  • Educational speakers / life long learning Educational speakers / life long learningEducational speakers and lifelong learning opportunities are crucial for seniors as they provide mental stimulation, promote social engagement, and contribute to overall well-being. Continuous learning helps seniors stay mentally sharp, build new skills, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives. It also allows them to stay connected to the world around them and fosters a sense of community within senior living facilities.
  • Happy hour Happy hourHappy hour is important for seniors as it provides a social activity that promotes camaraderie and reduces feelings of loneliness or isolation. It also offers an opportunity for older adults to relax, unwind, and enjoy some drinks or snacks in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Live dance or theater performances Live dance or theater performancesLive dance or theater performances are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and emotional engagement. These performances can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, while also offering a sense of connection to the arts and culture. Additionally, watching live performances can bring joy and create lasting memories for seniors in their later years.
  • Live musical performances Live musical performancesLive musical performances can provide seniors with a sense of joy, nostalgia, and connection. Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, improve mood and cognitive function, and foster social interaction among seniors. It can also serve as a form of therapy and stress relief for older adults, making it an important activity to include in senior living communities.
  • Live well programs Live well programs"Live well programs are essential for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation, ultimately promoting overall health and well-being in later years."
  • Visiting chaplain or priest Visiting chaplain or priestHaving a visiting chaplain or priest at a senior living community is important for seniors because it provides spiritual support, comfort, and guidance during a time of life that can be challenging and uncertain. Their presence can help seniors feel connected to their faith, find peace of mind, and cope with the emotional and mental struggles they may face in their later years.

Description

The Woodlands in Fairfax, VA is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and activities for its residents. The community features a variety of on-site activities to keep residents engaged and entertained, including cooking classes, devotional activities, educational speakers, and live performances.

The apartments at The Woodlands are equipped with air-conditioning, cable or satellite TV, fireplaces, and full kitchens. Each unit also has a private patio, deck, or balcony with a beautiful garden view. The community is designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities, with ground floor units and wheelchair accessible showers available.

Residents can enjoy the swimming pool and hot tub for relaxation and recreation. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet is available throughout the community for easy connectivity.

In addition to the amenities offered on-site, The Woodlands benefits from its convenient location near various establishments. Cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals are all within close proximity to the community.

Overall, The Woodlands provides a comfortable and inclusive living environment where residents can engage in meaningful activities while enjoying the convenience of nearby amenities.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Fairfax, Virginia offers a convenient and well-equipped location for senior living. With multiple pharmacies, hospitals, physicians' offices, and places of worship in close proximity, residents have easy access to healthcare services and community support. The abundance of restaurants and cafes provide plenty of dining options for seniors looking to enjoy meals out with friends or family. Additionally, the nearby parks offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The area is also served by the Vienna/Fairfax Metro Station for convenient public transportation access. Overall, this neighborhood provides a comfortable and convenient environment for seniors looking to live in Fairfax.

Pharmacies

  • Wegmans (0.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.6 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (2.8 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.5 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Islamic Center Northern Virginia Trust (0.3 miles)
  • St Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church (5.1 miles)
  • McLean Islamic Center (7.9 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (0.7 miles)
  • Ozzie's Good Eats (0.9 miles)
  • Silver Diner (1.6 miles)
  • Blue Iguana (2.4 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (2.5 miles)
  • Guapos Restaurant (2.8 miles)
  • Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers (3.1 miles)

Cafes

  • Peet's Coffee and Tea (1 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.3 miles)
  • Paris Baguette (5.1 miles)
  • Cafein (5.4 miles)
  • Chateau De Chantilly Cafe (5.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (5.6 miles)

Theaters

  • Cinemark Fairfax Corner 14 and XD (1 miles)

Parks

  • FairLakes Townhouse Playground (1.6 miles)
  • Van Dyck Park (2.5 miles)
  • Daniels Run Park (3.3 miles)
  • Fairfax Memorial (3.4 miles)
  • Burke Lake Park (6.5 miles)
  • Foxstone Park (6.5 miles)
  • Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts (7.2 miles)

Physicians

  • Eye Specialists and Surgeons of Northern Virginia (2.1 miles)
  • Otolaryngology Associates, PC (2.2 miles)
  • Fairfax Allergy (2.3 miles)
  • Fairfax Pediatric Associates (3.7 miles)
  • Fairfax Radiolgy Consultants Centreville/Clifton Imaging Center (5.1 miles)
  • Burke Allergy & Asthma Center (5.4 miles)
  • Virginia Heart (6.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Inova Vascular Diagnostic and Imaging Services - Fair Oaks (3.2 miles)
  • Inova Heart and Vascular Institute (6.2 miles)
  • Labor and Delivery - Fairfax Hospital (6.3 miles)
  • Inova Fairfax Medical Campus (6.4 miles)
  • Reston Hospital Nursery (7.9 miles)

Transportation

  • Vienna/Fairfax - GMU Metro Station (4.4 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to live at The Woodlands in Fairfax, VA?
Where is The Woodlands?
Does The Woodlands allow residents to have pets?
What photos are available for The Woodlands in Fairfax, Virginia?

Nearby Communities

  • The Woodlands Retirement Community

    The Woodlands Retirement Community

    Fairfax, VA

    4.4 from 39 reviews
     

    pro Friendly, family-like atmosphere with engaging activities and excellent dining.

  • The Gardens at Fair Oaks

    The Gardens at Fair Oaks

    Fairfax, VA

    4.4 from 33 reviews
    $5,450 to $10,000 / month

    pro Beautiful, well-maintained community with friendly staff and engaging activities.

  • Stevenson Place

    Stevenson Place

    Fairfax, VA

     
     

    pro Comprehensive assisted living with 24/7 supervision and broad on-site amenities.

  • Senior Helpers - Fairfax,  VA

    Senior Helpers - Fairfax, VA

    Fairfax, VA

    4.8 from 28 reviews
     

    pro Dedicated, compassionate staff with reliable last-minute care support.

  • Edge Healthcare Inc

    Edge Healthcare Inc

    Fairfax, VA

     
     

    pro Extensive nearby amenities and healthcare access.

  • Mint Home Care

    Mint Home Care

    Fairfax, VA

    5 from 29 reviews
     

    pro Caring, dependable aides matched quickly with excellent communication.

  • Hunters Woods at Trails Edge

    Hunters Woods at Trails Edge

    Reston, VA

    4.3 from 134 reviews
    $4,195 to $9,075 / month

    pro Friendly staff in a modern, clean facility with good dining and engaging activities.

  • The Kensington Reston

    The Kensington Reston

    Reston, VA

    4.9 from 69 reviews
    $4,000 to $9,500 / month

    pro Responsive staff and engaging activities.

  • Tysons Woods

    Tysons Woods

    Vienna, VA

    4.7 from 33 reviews
    $5,500 / month

    pro Beautiful, home-like setting with attentive, around-the-clock staff.

Related Resources

  • living will definitionComprehensive Exploration of Living Wills and Other Advance Directives

    Living wills and advance directives are crucial legal documents that outline an individual's healthcare preferences when they cannot make decisions themselves, enhancing patient autonomy and alleviating family stress during medical crises. The article emphasizes the need for these documents to be personalized, legally valid, and regularly updated, while also encouraging communication about end-of-life wishes among family members and healthcare providers.

  • living will definitionA Detailed Exploration of Living Wills and Advance Directives

    The article examines living wills and advance directives, highlighting their significance in expressing healthcare preferences for those unable to communicate due to illness or incapacity. It discusses their historical development, legal components, limitations, practical drafting advice, and the importance of clear communication among families and healthcare professionals regarding end-of-life decisions.

  • does medicare cover hospiceComprehensive Guide to Medicare Coverage for Hospice Care

    Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and support for individuals nearing the end of life, with Medicare Part A covering services like nursing care and counseling for patients with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of six months or less. While most hospice services are low-cost for eligible patients, families should be aware that certain expenses, such as room and board, may not be covered.