Things to Do in Northern Virginia: Northern Virginia is home to many attractions ranging from monuments, museums, and historical sites to state and national parks, guided walking tours, and scenic hiking trails. “Nova”, as it is referred to by residents of the area, includes the cities of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Stafford, and Prince William counties, along with Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park. Offers lots of places. Check out this exciting part of Virginia on your next trip, whether you’re tripping from nearby Washington, D.C., or plan to spend more time in the area.
10 Top Things to Do in Northern Virginia
- Learn About Alexandria’s Black History on a Walking Tour
Started in 2016 by former Alexandria City Councilman John Taylor Chapman, the Manumission Tour Company takes visitors on a guided walking tour of Old Town Alexandria, focusing on the experiences of the city’s African and African American residents during the 18th and 19th centuries. Is. Each walking tour is approximately 90 minutes long and there are several themes to choose from depending on your interests.
The “Fight for Freedom in Alexandria” tour focuses on the city’s early history of urban slavery before the Civil War and the inspiring stories of runaway slaves, freedmen, and abolitionists who helped others escape via the Underground Railroad, as well as standing Focused on other people who happen to be. Against slavery at a time when most would not. The “Duke Street Black History Tour” highlights Alexandria’s role as a major center of the domestic slave trade—Duke Street was formerly known as the Slave Trail of Tears because of the number of people to work on the plantations. Was forced to march from here on his journey to the south. to Louisiana.
The “Stills Underground Railroad Walking Tour” takes a closer look at abolitionist William Stills’ 1872 book, The Underground Railroad, and what the experience was like for runaway slaves who used it to escape to freedom.
- Raise a Glass in Loudoun County
Perfect for a day trip from DC or a gorgeous romantic getaway at a bed and breakfast, Loudoun County has over 40 wineries, over 30 breweries, and a smattering of ciders and distilleries to choose from. Spend some time tasting your way through craft breweries along the Loco Ale Trail, or sample farm-to-table fare as you explore home wineries for grape varieties like Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Viognier, and Norton Put it. There are also plenty of places for lovers of cider, mead, and other distilled spirits.
- Go On a Ghost Tour in Old Town Alexandria
For a captivating hour-long night stroll with interesting stories about some of the Old Town’s most famous former residents, don’t miss the Ghost and Graveyard Tour by Alexandria Colonial Tours. Your guided walk begins outside the Visitor Center on King Street—you’ll know when the costumed tour guide awaits with your lantern—and takes you a six-block walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Town Alexandria. takes over. Note that due to the nature of the tour and the stories told, this experience is recommended for children ages 9 and up.
- Pay Your Respects at Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most visited sites in the region, with more than four million people visiting each year to pay tribute. More than 400,000 U.S. service members, veterans, and their family members are buried in the 612-acre cemetery, located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., stroll the grounds and honor notable Americans such as William Howard Taft, John F. Visit the tombs. , Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Robert Kennedy, among others who made it their final resting place. Witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and visit Arlington House, the former home of Robert E. Lee.
- Tour George Washington’s Former Home
The Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, the home of George Washington along the Potomac River, is one of the area’s most historic attractions. Visit the original mansion, outbuildings, gardens, slave quarters, slave cemetery, and museum to learn more about the life of our first president, his family, and the people who lived there, enslaved or otherwise. There are special events throughout the year offering a glimpse of how events and holidays like Christmas and Halloween were celebrated in the 18th century, so check the website to find out what’s on when you plan to visit Is.
- See Nature in All its Glory at Great Falls Park
Great Falls Park, an 800-acre piece of outdoor paradise along the Potomac River, is one of the most spectacular natural sites in Northern Virginia and an excellent place for outdoor recreation. Spend a few hours hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, cycling, or picnicking as you admire the view and enjoy some time in the fresh air.
- Visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
This Northern Virginia outpost of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum near Dulles International Airport displays the giant space shuttle Discovery, the Lockheed SR-71, and many other impressive aircraft and spacecraft, as well as other aviation-related artifacts. You’ll also find an IMAX theater, several simulator activities, and exhibitions for kids.
- Honor the Marines at the Iwo Jima Memorial
The US Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, honors the many Marines who have died defending the country since 1775. The 32-foot-tall statue was inspired by a Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph that depicted a memorable scene of one. The flag is hoisted on Mount Suribachi by US Marines during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II.
- Visit the U.S. Air Force Memorial
The US Air Force Memorial, which is visible from both northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., honors the millions of men and women who have served in the United States Air Force. The sculpture embodies the spirit of flight and flight with three stainless steel Spiers 270 feet high, representing the contraction of Air Force Thunderbirds as they expand during the “bombing” maneuver.
- See a Concert at Wolf Trap National Park
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts hosts a wide variety of performances, from pop, country, folk, and blues music to classical, dance, theater, and opera. The Northern Virginia concert venue, located in Vienna, showcases talent and offers educational programs throughout the year, while its 7,000-seat Phillyne Center makes it the perfect venue for an outdoor summer concert.
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