Fredericksburg
Adroit Theory Brewing in Purcellville
the site of a number of Civil War engagements. Four battlefields,
Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania Court
House, are open to explore. Golfers can take a swing at one of five
public courses, including the Pete Dye-designed Gauntlet Golf Club.
Choose from dozens of independent eateries such as Foode, serving
farm-to-table American fare. But save room for a treat from Carl’s
Frozen Custard, where locals have been lining up since 1947.
DON’T MISS
Ferry Farm. We can’t verify whether a young George Washington
really chopped down the cherry tree, but if he did, it likely happened
here. From the age of 6, the 80-acre plot was the boyhood home of
the future President. It’s just east of town and has a visitor center
displaying artifacts discovered on the property. You might even catch
resident archaeologists at work in the lab. Or explore the gardens and
hiking trails on a self-guided tour. For a more interactive experience,
check out an iPad.
Despite its location a short hop south of DC just off Interstate 95,
Occoquan is a hidden gem. It may be short on residents — just 900
souls — but it’s long on history. This compact town on the banks
of the Occoquan River was founded circa 1734. Stroll the riverfront
boardwalk or relax in the gazebo in Mamie Davis Park, connecting
the boardwalk and pier. From spring to fall, there’s live music in the
new River Mill Park at the end of Mill Street. The Secret Garden Café,
housed in an 1840 home, is a favorite lunch spot among locals. The
Bottle Stop Wine Bar pours artisan wines and has craft beers on tap,
along with a small-plates menu and flat-bread pizzas. For a historic
perspective, stop by the Mill House Museum (it’s free), located in a
restored mill. There you can pick up a detailed walking map of the
historic district. The Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge lies just
10 minutes from town at the confluence of the Occoquan and Potomac
rivers. Laced with walking trails, it’s a haven for birders. Watch for
eagles, ospreys and herons.
DON’T MISS
OCCOQUAN, VA.
DISTANCE FROM DOWNTOWN D.C.
The Workhouse Arts Center, 2 miles away in Lorton. The former
correctional complex released its last prisoner in 2001 and re-opened
in 2008 as a non-profit arts space. Six artist studio buildings and exhibit
areas encourage visitors to interact with working artists. There’s also a
small on-site prison museum.
23 miles
SPRING 2018 57 FLYWASHINGTON.COM