ADVENTURES AWAIT IN D.C.'S BACKYARD


If you’ve driven on I-95 between Washington D.C. and Fredericksburg, you’ve technically been to Stafford County, Virginia. But if that’s all you’ve experienced, you’re in for a treat. You could say we’re a place where surprises and wonderment are hiding in plain sight. The locals know it and so do more than 500,000 tourists who keep coming back every year to stay and play in our beautiful community. Whether traveling for business or leisure - explore rich history, the great outdoors, spirits, arts and culture, and so much more. Get inspired with our Stafford Area Visitor’s Guide or visit TourStaffordVA.com and check out our pre-planned itineraries, book your stay, and tour Stafford, Virginia. Adventure awaits in D.C.’s backyard, what will you discover?
As if Stafford County didn’t offer enough on its own, there are plenty of very special, very unique cities and towns close just outside our borders. They offer even more experiences tourists won’t find anywhere else in Northern Virginia (NoVa) or, frankly, anywhere in the country. We encourage you to check them out.
Named a Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler and one of the South’s Prettiest Cities by Southern Living (among many, many other awards) Alexandria, VA hums with a cosmo feel and walkable lifestyle. “Old Town” Alexandria isn’t just gorgeous, it’s home to more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques.
Situated in the heart of Northern Virginia, Fairfax County draws visitors from all over the world seeking to explore its unique visitor experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. From history to arts to museums and more, these one-of-a-kind attractions will delight the whole family. Fairfax is home to America’s most visited historic estate, George Washington’s Mount Vernon.
Loudoun, VA is an exquisite culinary and heritage destination just 25 miles from Washington, D.C. boasting more than 40 award-winning wineries and tasting rooms, 25+ craft breweries, as well as farm-to-table dining, country inns, bed and breakfasts, and more! Experience scenic vistas, deep American heritage, and charming small towns such as Leesburg and Middleburg, the capital of Virginia horse country.
Looking for convenience and value near the nation’s capital? Arlington sits just across the Potomac River from D.C. and is full of lively neighborhoods, American treasures, car-free fun and tons of dining and shopping. And you can choose from more than 40 hotels with rates averaging 20% lower than downtown D.C.
Steeped in equestrian tradition, and surrounded by wineries and vineyards, today Fauquier County is known for its horse farms, wineries, and beautiful rolling land at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Dating back to the 17th century and the beginnings of our country, the area was listed in 1608 as part of the Northern Neck of the Colony of Virginia by Captain John Smith, explorer and leader of the Jamestown Colony.
Nestled 30 miles from D.C., Prince William, VA gives visitors the opportunity to be close to D.C., yet enjoy major attractions such as Jiffy Lube Live, Manassas National Battlefield Park, the National Museum of the Marine Corps, and shopping favorites. It also boasts the largest collection of trails, open space, and parks in Northern Virginia and is ideal for the outdoor adventure enthusiast.
Sitting on the falls of the Rappahannock River, Fredericksburg is an ideal spot for history lovers. It has become a vital stop for myriad Civil War history tours. Today’s Fredericksburg has preserved its memories well. It’s large downtown historic district is dotted with Colonial structures and reminders of those who lived, worked, and fought here, while a National Park interprets the battles, and the city still shows its glories and its scars.
Explore the natural beauty of this historic county. Enjoy a variety of water sports including kayaking, canoeing, jet and water skiing, paddle boarding, boating, fishing, crabbing or just sunbathing on the historic Rappahannock and Potomac rivers. Watch eagles soar at Caledon, hike, jog or cycle on the 15 mile Heritage Railroad.
Midway between Washington, D.C, and Richmond, VA, Spotsylvania is a picturesque county known for being as unique as its name. Visitors can experience an unusually harmonious blend of rural landscapes and energetic activity. This is a place to escape the demands of daily life and explore a different vacation experience.
Washington, D.C. day trips and vacations are on everyone’s to-do list at some point. You’ll find plenty of museums to visit including the exceptional Smithsonian museums, cultural events, dozens of monuments and memorials dedicated to legendary American leaders and other great things to do. There’s something to experience all year round—even late autumn and winter provide great opportunities to explore, learn, and have an amazing time in our nation’s capital.
Scan to see what the surrounding area has to offer.
Getting here is easy; loving it here is even easier. Stafford County is about 40-ish miles south of Washington D.C. and 50-ish miles north of Richmond, Virginia... depending on who you ask.
There are two Amtrak stations nearby:
• Fredericksburg
• Quantico
Virginia Railway Express (VRE) provides weekday commuter service from Stafford’s two stations: Brooke and Leeland.
INFO: Amtrak www.amtrak.com | VRE www.vre.org
BY AIR• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
• Richmond International Airport
• Washington Dulles International Airport
BY CARNorth, South & West
Take I-95 to exits at mile markers 148, 143, 140, 136 and 133.
East
Unless you’re a very short distance to the east of us (on our side of the Potomac) you’ll need to choose your best/shortest/fastest Potomac River crossing to get to I-95. Then follow the appropriate “North, South & West” directions above.
Local bus information is available through the Fredericksburg Regional Transit.
INFO: 540-372-1222 option “7” for info or assistance www.ridefred.com
GARI MELCHERS HOME AND STUDIOTour through the Stafford region with a walking and driving tour of the historical sites that played a major role in thousands of enslaved persons' paths to freedom. Halfway between Richmond and Washington, D.C. sits a trail that was once used by freedom seeking men, women, and children during the summer of 1862. The Trail to Freedom provides an opportunity to see the region that witnessed over 10,000 of the enslaved escape and claim freedom. These brave families traveled thousands of miles on foot, by wagon, and rail through Stafford County, Virginia. Take the driving or walking tour and see where self-emancipating freedom seekers bravely crossed the river, traveled through Stafford’s Aquia Landing, and then on to contraband camps in Washington, D.C.
Scan to learn more about African American Heritage
Pop quiz: Where did George Washington grow up? It’s true. The father of our country was raised right here in southern Stafford County. How cool is that? The roots of American history course through Stafford, Virginia. Captain John Smith sailed up the Potomac from Jamestown in 1608, over 212,000 union soldiers camped here during the Civil War, and 10,000 enslaved persons self-emancipated through Aquia Landing in the spring of 1862. All of this, and so much more happened in Stafford County. If you’re into history, you just have to get to Stafford County.
2938 Richmond Highway, Stafford, VA 22555
This Church was built around 1751-1757, and is one of the finest examples of colonial church architecture in Virginia.
2846 Brooke Road, Stafford, VA 22554
Open year-round, this popular public beach offers fishing, picnicking, kayaking and two large picnic shelters for rent.
135 Chapel Green Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
First organized in 1868 by Rev. York Johnson, an ex-slave, and 27 other members from White Oak Primitive Baptist Church. Rev. Johnson, assisted by the Freedmen's Bureau, established a benevolent organization called "The Union Branch of the True Vine" and founded the Union Branch School. Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church is a County, State and National Historical Site, and contains historical graves from the late 1800s.
Scan to view all Historical Attractions. STAFFORD CIVIL WAR PARK120 Chatham Lane, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Owned by gentry, sustained by slaves, and witness to war, this Georgian-style mansion is best known for its role in the Civil War, when it served as Union headquarters during the Battle of Fredericksburg. It now serves as the headquarters of the Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania National Military Park Headquarters.
Stand in the footsteps of soldiers, civilians, and freedom seekers when you visit Stafford’s 8 Civil War Trails sites. Our open air museum is ready and waiting for you. Follow Civil War Trails and create some history of your own.
36380 Constitution Highway, Locust Grove, VA 22508
The 1790s house on the Wilderness Battlefield served as a hospital and headquarters at different times. Location of Stonewall Jackson’s arm burial site.
120 Chatham Lane, Falmouth, VA 22405
In 1927 the U.S. Congress established Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County Memorial National Military Park to commemorate the heroic deeds of the men engaged at the battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania Court House.
268 King’s Highway, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Visit the home where George Washington grew up and lived from age 6 to 22. His family moved to a farm in Stafford called the “Home Farm” but later became known as Ferry Farm because people crossed the Rappahannock River on a ferry from the farm to the town of Fredericksburg. Take an interactive guided tour of Washington’s interpretive replica house.
50 Hartwood Church Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
Echoes of history are found within the walls of this historic Presbyterian Church which was occupied and vandalized by Union troops during the Civil War. Today the walls are new but the building is listed on the Virginia Landmarks Register and National Register of Historic Places for its place in history, and is listed as a site on the Civil War Trail.
1201 Washington Avenue, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Built by patriot Fielding Lewis and his wife, Betty (the sister of George Washington), the house contains some of the most elaborate plasterwork from Colonial America.
401 River Road, Falmouth, Virginia 22405
Located off River Road, this area is a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty of the Rappahannock River. The area is a great place to fish (VA fishing license required), and it is equipped with picnic areas.
303 King Street, Falmouth, VA 22405
The stately Federal-period Moncure Conway House in Falmouth is one of Stafford’s historic treasures. The home was associated earlier with the Vass and Beale families. It was the boyhood home of Moncure Daniel Conway, the South’s most prominent abolitionist. During the Civil War it was used as a Union hospital. While this home is now privately-owned, you can drive by the historic site.
18900 Richmond Highway, Triangle, VA 22172
A monument to honor, courage, and commitment, the museum is a lasting tribute to U.S. Marines — past, present, and future.
638 Kings Highway, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
The Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia is based in Stafford along the Potomac River, and is recognized as one of Virginia’s 11 Native American Tribes. The Patawomeck Indian Tribal Center is the site of the Museum and Cultural Center, and includes an outdoor living history village and indigenous gardens, spread over 17 acres.
3380 Shannon Airport Circle, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Shannon Air Museum offers a rare collection of vintage aircraft which were owned by one of the founders of Eastern Airlines, Sidney Shannon Sr.
River Road, Falmouth, VA 22405
Along River Road stands a small cottage in contrast to Basil Gordon House and Moncure Conway House, representing what a colonial workingman might aspire to possess in his own right.
905 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
For the 300 years of its existence, St. George’s Church has played an active part in the community of Fredericksburg. George Washington and many of his family and friends attended services at St. George’s and it served as a hospital during the Civil War.
1300 Courthouse Road, Stafford, VA 22554
For more than 200 years, residents of Stafford County have served honorably in our nation’s armed forces to preserve freedom and democracy. The memorial is a fitting place for the public to honor their sacrifice.
400 Mt. Hope Church Road, Stafford, VA 22554
This 41-acre park tells the story of the Army of the Potomac’s Winter Encampment in 1863. More than 135,000 soldiers occupied Stafford while their new commander, General Joseph Hooker rebuilt his army. This critical time has been referred to in soldier’s letters as “The Union Army’s Valley Forge.”
1739 Richmond Highway, Stafford, VA 22554
Originally built in 1939 by the Public Works Administration as the Stafford Training School (a term used in the South to differentiate a White high school from a Black high school). It was the only place where Black students could receive an education beyond the 7th grade. This building is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a Virginia Landmark.
Retrace the routes of freedom seekers through the area. A driving tour through Stafford County provides a stop-bystop interpretation of the 10,000 former slaves who began their freedom journey in the spring of 1862.
We do the outdoors a little outside the box. Don’t get us wrong, we’ve got all the typical outdoor activities you love: hiking, biking, climbing, boating, and lots of other “ing” words. But doing them in Stafford County just brings a little something extra to the experience. Guess you could say we make the great outdoors, well...greater.
Scan to learn more about Stafford County’s Outdoors.
401 River Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Enjoy a two mile hike through three public parks in southern Stafford County. Scenic beauty surrounds you as the path winds through the Historic Port of Falmouth.
81 Raven Road, Stafford, VA 22554
A simply beautiful place, protecting approximately 3,000 acres. Enjoy 8 miles of hiking trails and a new kayak water trail.
191 Coal Landing Road, Stafford, VA 22554
A Scenic Heritage Trail through a 17-acre early American sandstone quarry, a source of stone used to construct the U.S. Capitol and the White House.
101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA 22554
Cradled between the Potomac River and Aquia Creek, Widewater has always been an important access point to the waterways that developed our nation. The land has hosted commercial fishing, duck hunting, and an active port. Today the park is an important link to the resources of the Chesapeake Bay providing the public premier access to both the river and creek as well as canoe-kayak launches and hiking trails.
Abel Reservoir
665 Kellogg Mill Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
INFO: 540-658-4871
Aquia Harbour Marina
1415 Washington Drive, Stafford, VA 22554
INFO: 540-659-4232
Aquia Landing Park
2846 Brooke Road, Stafford, VA 22554
INFO: 540-658-5019
Curtis Lake
58 Jesse Curtis Lane, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
INFO: 540-658-4871
GMCO Potomac River
Fising Guide Service
65 Stonewall Drive, Stafford, VA 22556
INFO: 540-273-1831
Historic Port of Falmouth
401 River Road, Falmouth, VA 22405
INFO: 540-658-5373
Holiday Harbor Marina
140 Hope Springs Lane, Stafford, VA 22554
INFO: 540-659-9935
Hope Springs Marina
4 Hope Springs Lane, Stafford, VA 22554
INFO: 540-659-1128
Lake Mooney
495 Greenbank Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
INFO: 540-658-4871
Little Falls Boat Ramp
952 Kings Highway, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
INFO: 540-658-4871
Willow Landing Marina
121 Willow Landing Road, Stafford, VA 22554
INFO: 540-659-2653
1140 International Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
Enjoy a par two course nestled in the woods on the 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Co. property. Grab a beer or a drink, order some good food, and play on the nine-hole disc golf course. Max throw is 100’.
INFO: 540-356-9056
Curtis Memorial Park DGC
18 Fairway Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
Enjoy 18 holes of Disc Golf year-round with beautiful views of Curtis Lake. This wooded course has 3 sets of concrete teepads whether it be junior, advanced, or pro. Enjoy this wellmaintained course with a variety of shots for all skill levels.
INFO: 540-658-5114
120 River Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Explore the outdoors while playing disc golf at John Lee Pratt Park’s 18-hole course. Play a game in this mostly wooded course then enjoy the park amenities afterward. Great place to spend with the family year round.
INFO: 540-685-5019
10910 Leavells Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22407
Spend your day playing disc golf at the 18 hole course at Loriella Park. This course has the perfect variety with holes in the woods and in the field. Great for beginning to learn the sport, but advanced enough for more seasoned players.
INFO: 540-507-7529
204 Bow Cove, Stafford, VA 22554
9-hole golf course with alternate tees and pin placements for the back nine holes that create a challenging and interesting 18-hole round of golf. The golf course includes a comprehensive practice facility with a driving range, a putting and chipping green, and PGA instruction.
INFO: 540-659-4478
Augustine Golf Club
76 Monument Drive, Stafford, VA 22554
18-hole, par 71, championship course with full service clubhouse and pro shop. Multiple tees provide challenges to all levels of golfers.
INFO: 540-720-7374
The Gauntlet Golf Club
18 Fairway Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
18-hole, par 72 championship P.B. Dye course on Lake Curtis. Restaurant, clubhouse, pro shop and practice facilities.
INFO: 540-752-0963
The glass is always half full in the Stafford Region. Quench your thirst with the wine, spirits and hops made throughout the historic region, from the state’s most popular grape varietals to the latest farmhouse ale.
Scan to learn more about Stafford’s Breweries & Wineries.
1140 International Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
6 Bears & A Goat is a veteran-owned and operated brewery that offers a wide variety of craft beers. Enjoy a beer along with their full-service kitchen that offers weekly brunch, lunch, and dinner specials.
INFO: 540-356-9056
33 Perchwood Drive 101, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Home to outstanding craft beer and an inviting tasting room experience. They feature year-round adventurous and seasonal beers.
INFO: 540-242-8876
15 Tech Parkway, Stafford, VA 22556
Simple ingredients and a traditional, hands-on approach to brewing is how Barley Naked crafts each of their beers.
INFO: 540-623-4475
650 Corporate Drive, Suite 101, Stafford VA 22554
Full Distance Brewing is located outside of Marine Corps Base Quantico and features a 3,000 square foot taproom, bar, 20 taps, outdoor patio, and space that can be reserved for special events.
INFO: 571-931-0309, fulldistancebrewing.com
390 Kings Highway, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
A family-owned brewery focused on bringing quality craft beer to the Stafford area. Check out their tasting room and try a flagship beer.
INFO: 540-709-2020
3071 Richmond Highway, Stafford, VA 22554
Wild Run Brewing Company is a brewery located within Aquia Pines Camp Resort in Stafford, VA.
INFO: 540-720-7532
HIGHMARK BREWERYJust a small step away from your everyday life, you’ll feel as though you’ve crossed the Atlantic and landed in Tuscany when you visit Potomac Point Vineyard and Taste their seasonal bistro menu, try a wine flight on the patio, and relax in this oasis after experiencing their award-winning wines in the tasting room. Stroll the grounds, rent a winter wine tent, and find the Virginia LOVEWorks wine barrels and the Winery Wings for the perfect pictures. With a calendar of events, there’s always something to do at Potomac Point Vineyard and Winery.
Call (540) 446-2251 or email: reservations@potomacpointwinery.com to make a reservation.
Looking
Eat, drink and be merriest.
With all you have to discover in Stafford County, you’re bound to get thirsty. And hungry. Then probably thirsty again. Good news. Those two things are two of our favorite things around here. You’ll have no problem finding great eats and drinks here. In fact, the only problem you may have is deciding which ones to choose.
Scan to learn more about
Dining in Stafford.
The visual and performing arts are alive in Stafford County. Tour the home and studio of world-renowned artist Gari Melchers and see where he and his wife’s love story flourished. Then spend an evening at the Riverside Center for Performing Arts and enjoy Broadway-quality performances and a three-course meal.
Scan to learn more about Arts & Culture in Stafford.
224 Washington Street, Falmouth, VA 22405
American artist, Gari Melchers, owned this 1900’s historic home, which is now a famous art gallery.
INFO: 540 -654-1015
95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
Enjoy a dinner and show starring professional actors who perform Broadway Musical entertainment electrifying audiences of all ages.
INFO: 540-370-4300
SALLY STRUTHERS LOVES RIVERSIDE CENTER for the PERFORMING ARTS
Riverside Center for the Performing Arts continues to grow as a premier theater destination with support of Sally Struthers. The actress calls Riverside the “Broadway at the Rappahannock.”
Looking for inspiration when planning your trip to the Stafford area?
In Stafford County, there’s no one right way to be a tourist. We’re all different and like different things. But that’s the beauty of this special place. Take a look at our suggestions and free sample itineraries to give you an idea of what’s in store! While we think these itineraries are great, nothing is set in stone. Mix and match and make them your own. Or ignore them all together and use our website’s itinerary builder tool and come up with the perfect getaway for you and your family!
In Stafford, VA, you will be able to connect with your loved ones and make amazing memories.
Sip your way through the Stafford region for a mix of bold, traditional, and specialty crafted brews.
Explore the variety of Stafford’s attractions while keeping your budget low and the quality of experiences high!
Whether it’s a bachelorette weekend or just some time away from your busy lives, spend the weekend with your gal pals in Stafford, Virginia.
GEORGE WASHINGTON’S FERRY FARMStafford is sure to provide the perfect weekend away for you and the guys; enjoy yourself and relax in D.C.’s backyard.
No matter the age difference, Stafford is one of Northern Virginia’s family-friendly communities with attractions for those ages two to 92!
Everyone loves a day trip to Stafford, even man’s best friend! Take some time in Stafford to enjoy the different opportunities for you and your pup.
From colonial times, through the Civil War and Civil Rights movement, Stafford County has played a vital role in America’s rich history over the last four centuries.
In Stafford County, not only will you spend time in the fresh air but you might learn a thing or two. Whether on the water, the trails, or a course, get outside and feel the breeze at the intersection of rich American history and outdoor recreation.
The Stafford art and culture scene is bursting at the seams; come and experience the bright colors, big sounds, and Broadway-style entertainment in the region.
Scan for a list of Stafford’s Itineraries & Tours.
Scan to learn more about Stafford County’s Wedding Venues.
When you're planning your wedding, go with your heart. Some people dream of a perfect outdoor setting for their special day. Others seek something more metropolitan and formal. Still others, well, what they want can’t be labeled (and who likes labels anyway, right?). Whatever it is you’re looking for, we say: bring it. Stafford County offers so many things to do and just about anything you need to make the occasion as unique as the love you share.
Angelwood Inn
90 Samuels Lane, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
INFO: 540-907-8784
Gari Melchers Home and Studio at Belmont
224 Washington Street, Falmouth, VA 22405
INFO: 540-654-1015
Glasgow Farm
448 Hartwood Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
INFO: 540-220-2730
Glen Garden Weddings
306 Hartwood Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
INFO: 540-847-1942
Highland Barn
544 Mt. Olive Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
INFO: 703-896-0487
Potomac Point Winery
275 Decatur Road, Stafford, VA 22554
INFO: 540-446-2266
Riverside Center for the Performing Arts
95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
INFO: 540-370-4300
Rock Hill Pavilion
228 Rock Hill Church Road, Stafford, VA 22556
INFO: 571-228-9953
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