Don’t Miss Out: Get the Authentic Northern Virginia Experience
We were surprised to learn how many tourists overlook some parts of Virginia. In fact, the region between Williamsburg and Washington DC offers some of the prettiest -and most authentic- things to do and see in the commonwealth.
Authenticity for everyone in Northern Virginia
If you love to learn all about the rich history of America, but you’ve never taken a visit to the north end of Virginia, what in the world are you waiting for? The area immediately south of the nation’s capital boasts more early American history than practically anywhere else in the country. The scenery along the way is simply gorgeous, the food here is great, and you’ll find ample opportunity to marvel at the way people lived in long-ago America.
But wait, there’s more. Alexandria, Manassas, Fredericksburg and other old towns in Northern Virginia are currently experiencing a cultural renaissance that’s sure to please foodies, craft collectors, historians, and enthusiastic shoppers. Each town has its own unique history and merits an extended visit, say travel mavens at Huffington Post.
All about Alexandria
For an authentic Virginia experience, be sure to stop by the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. Unaltered since the days when Martha Washington obtained George’s prescriptions here, the apothecary boasts actual items from the Revolutionary and Civil War eras. The apothecary is heralded as the oldest, best-preserved pharmacy in the nation and is well worth further exploration.
Whilst visiting Alexandria, shop as the locals do. Prowl a generous assortment of indie boutiques and one-of-a-kind antique shops on King Street to browse an ever-changing selection of vintage items and authentic period clothing. If you’ve had enough of chain stores and massive malls, old Alexandria may satisfy your retail urges in a totally unique manner.
Marvelous Manassas
Once known as Manassas Junction, the little railroad town of Manassas bears much historical significance to Civil War buffs. Masannas sits a mere 17 miles from the Marriott Washington Dulles Suites and provides a fascinating day trip. The Prince William County Courthouse offers a nice example of the Romanesque architecture that was popular at the time of its construction in 1892.
In nearby Fredericksburg, be sure to stroll the grounds and take a tour of Chatham Manor. Presidents Washington, Jefferson, and Lincoln each slept at the colonial era structure. During the Civil War, the manor served as a hospital and employed poet Walt Whitman as a nurse. Many structures in downtown Fredericksburg date back to the 1700s. Wander along lower Caroline Street to view fascinating examples of colonial homes and centuries-old industrial buildings, recommends the official Fredericksburg website.
You don’t have to be a scholar of United States history to appreciate the rich American heritage found throughout northern Virginia. Well within reach of Washington DC, the northern region of Virginia has something for everyone, no matter what their taste. Most attractions are kid-friendly, too. Step beyond the usual tourist traps and immerse yourself in yesteryear in beautiful northern Virginia.
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