Check out the Prince William County BLOG for can't-miss events and attractions and to learn where the locals go!
With fall waiting just around the corner, Prince William County and Manassas, Virginia are poised to welcome last-minute summer visitors to outdoor attractions and facilities—and also to embrace early fall leaf-peepers and holiday shoppers! Families looking to rediscover the timeless stories of America’s past while enjoying a wide menu of family attractions and refreshing outdoor recreation opportunities will find them here, just a short half-hour drive from Washington, D.C.
In the foothills of the verdant Bull Run Mountains, traverse the pristine and scenic grounds of Manassas National Battlefield Park, where soldiers fought the first major battle of the U.S. Civil War. Visitors to the park can take advantage of miles of hiking and bridle trails, picnic areas, and lakes and streams open for fishing.
Catch up on last-minute seasonal favorites. The 13-acre Splash Down Waterpark offers aquatic excitement with lazy rivers, cannonball slides, and the new Big Kahuna beach. Concerts at the area’s best outdoor music venue, Nissan Pavilion, can be enjoyed from a picnic blanket. Families can excite in traditional baseball games with the Potomac Cannons, a minor league affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. Enjoy the free fireworks show after every Saturday home game.
The National Museum of the Marine Corps is Prince William County’s newest attraction. At 118,000 square feet, this $95 million attraction has displays and exhibits that allow visitors to follow in the footsteps of the Marines.
Along Prince William County’s glistening Potomac River shoreline, families can enjoy rich history and abundant outdoor recreation at Leesylvania State Park. Visitors can hike historic trails leading to the hilltop home site of Revolutionary War General Henry “Light Horse Harry” Lee. For outdoor-lovers, a pier stretches into deep Potomac River waters for great fishing opportunities, and the park’s sandy beaches are a favorite of sunbathers and volleyball players.
At nearby Prince William National Forest Park, discover why the U.S. Army used the 17,000-acre forest to train spies during World War II. Families can hike to scenic waterfalls and enjoy natural wildlife, stunning fall foliage, and colorful spring flowers on driving loops. Campers will enjoy the park’s recreational vehicle, tent and cabin camping options. The park is one of the best spots to view autumn leaves, as the diversity of trees creates a veritable palette of brilliant colors.
In 1608, Captain John Smith sailed the Occoquan River and discovered a friendly Indian tribe that provided him with food and supplies. Modern-day visitors to quaint and charming Historic Occoquan can discover friendly shopkeepers at boutiques, art galleries and antiques stores eager to share their crafts—and the occasional ghost story.
Visitors looking for great shopping deals should head to Potomac Mills Mall, one of America’s largest shopping malls featuring up to 70 percent discounts at more than 220 stores. A great choice for both back-to-school shopping and holiday shopping, there are often in-mall promotions and events.
For the golfer in the family, Prince William County and Manassas offers 12 championship golf courses set in a variety of locales.
For more information, go online to www.visitpwc.com for up-to-date event and attraction information, or call the Prince William County/Manassas Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-432-1792.
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