How to Rock Summer Concert Season at Wolf Trap

Check out the different route options to get to the Park. If traveling on Dulles Toll Road (Route 267), to avoid potential traffic on the Exit 15 ramp, take Exit 16 onto Route 7. Or you can take Route 123 in Vienna to Trap Road to avoid tolls.

Parking is always free at the Filene Center. Arrive early and carpool as spots are limited, especially for sold-out shows. If parking in the West Lot (the lot on the opposite side of Trap Road), use the Pedestrian Tunnel to safely cross to the Filene Center. (You may not have even known it was there, but it is for your safety!)

Need a little extra assistance? This is also a location for golf cart pick-up!

Drop-off and pick-up areas are located on the west side of Trap Road, opposite the bright marquee sign. Head into the parking lot on that side of the venue and use the Pedestrian Tunnel to safely cross underneath Trap Road.

The Wolf Trap Shuttle offers roundtrip service from the McLean Metro Station (Silver Line) for all Filene Center summer concerts (*does not apply for shows at Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods or The Barns).

Watch the “How to Use the Wolf Trap Shuttle” video to learn more!

Wolf Trap Shuttle, operated by Fairfax Connector, begins two hours prior to showtime and runs every 20 minutes until the performance starts. The last bus from McLean Metro to the Filene Center departs at showtime—arrive early so you don’t miss it!

Return trips depart Wolf Trap’s Filene Center 20 minutes after the performance ends OR the following times (whichever happens first):

•             11:15 PM on Sunday-Thursday

•             12 AM on Friday and Saturday

Bring your own (BYO) picnic and enjoy the picturesque Meadow and terraces on Meadow Ridge before the gates open. You can also eat your picnic on the lawn once the gates open.

Craving some Soft Serve Ice Cream, a succulent Crab Cake Sandwich, or flavor-filled Burrito Bowl? Check out the different menus at Meadow Commons and Plaza Concessions. Supplement your summer concert picnic with grab and go items, main meals, and alcoholic beverages or zero-proof cocktails.

The Meadow Commons’ side windows open one hour before the gates. 

Make your reservation online to secure a spot at the newly revamped Ovations Restaurant. This al fresco, gourmet buffet dining experience with a full bar lets guests choose from a selection of delicious farm-to-table offerings. With a rotating menu, the refreshing Watermelon & Feta Salad and perfectly spiced Jerk-Marinated Chicken are just a taste of what’s on offer.

Preview the Park Amenities Map to find entrance gates, Concessions, restrooms, picnic areas, and more. You can also ask Park Rangers (easily spotted with their signature tan flat hats) or ushers (wearing a Wolf Trap lanyard) for guidance and assistance.

Before entering the Filene Center, stop by the chalkboard to the left of the main entrance. Write down your response to the question prompt or snap a picture beside the chalk art created by a local artist!

You never know what you might find at Wolf Trap! Some nights, Star Wars storm troopers invade the Plaza, fans arrive dressed up in themed costumes, or you can listen to a fascinating Pre-Performance Discussion. Read your welcome email for special show updates.

Also, keep your eyes peeled for Wolf Trap’s life-size, lovable mascot Wolfie, who makes an appearance at select shows!

From Wolf Trap Cups and gear to rental chairs for the lawn, the Gift Shop has all the accessories and fun mementos you need. Find it at the top of the Plaza.

Looking for artist merch? Head to the opposite side of the Plaza (next to Plaza Concessions) for show-specific shirts, posters, and other goodies.

Center Lines Online is Wolf Trap’s digital program book and hub for the most up-to-date performance info, dining menus, ticket giveaways, and Park insights. Ask an usher for a QR code card or snap it from a big screen.