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By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living
One of the greatest gifts of living in Prince William is realizing that adventure doesn’t always require a suitcase. Sometimes it’s found at the end of a hiking trail, along a quiet river, inside a locally owned bookstore, or around a table shared with family and friends.
Every month, Prince William Living shares stories about the people, businesses, organizations, parks, restaurants, and events that make Prince William County, the City of Manassas, and the City of Manassas Park such an extraordinary place to live. Even after years of telling those stories, there is always something new to discover.
It’s easy to fall into familiar routines. We drive the same roads, visit the same stores, and promise ourselves we’ll check out that new restaurant or explore that park “one of these days.” This feature is your invitation to make that day today.
We’ve selected 25 experiences that showcase the best of our community. Some are iconic destinations that every resident should experience at least once. Others may introduce you to a place you’ve passed countless times without stopping. Together, they celebrate the history, natural beauty, local businesses, arts, and traditions that define life in Prince William.
This isn’t about checking every box before December 31. It’s about slowing down, trying something new, supporting local businesses and organizations, and creating memories with the people who matter most.
You may discover a new favorite hiking trail, enjoy an unforgettable meal, uncover a fascinating chapter of local history, or find yourself returning to a place you never knew existed. However you choose to explore, we hope this bucket list inspires you to experience more of the community we proudly call home.
So grab this issue, make a few plans, invite family or friends to join you, and start checking off your own Prince William Bucket List. We think you’ll finish the year with an even greater appreciation for everything that makes Greater Prince William such a remarkable place to live.
Explore the Outdoors
Prince William’s parks, forests, rivers, and nature preserves offer countless opportunities to get outside. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful morning walk or an afternoon adventure, these experiences belong on every local’s list.
Watch the Sunrise at Leesylvania State Park
Begin your day overlooking the Potomac River as the morning sun reflects across the water. Bring a cup of coffee, take a walk along the shoreline, and enjoy one of the most peaceful views in Northern Virginia.
Hike Through Prince William Forest Park
With more than 37 miles of trails winding through forests, streams, and historic Civilian Conservation Corps cabins, Prince William Forest Park offers adventures for hikers of every skill level and is one of our community’s greatest natural treasures.
Paddle the Occoquan River
Kayaking the Occoquan
Whether you rent a kayak, launch your own canoe, or join a guided excursion, seeing Prince William from the water offers an entirely new perspective on the area’s natural beauty.
Launch a Kayak at Neabsco Regional Park
Neabsco Regional Park continues to expand opportunities for outdoor recreation. Paddle calm waters while watching for turtles, herons, and other wildlife that thrive in this beautiful setting.
Explore the Bull Run Mountains
Bull Run Mountains
Scenic trails, native plants, wildlife, and remarkable geology make the Bull Run Mountains an unforgettable destination for hikers, photographers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
Eat, Sip & Savor
One of the best ways to experience a community is around the table. These local destinations represent just a small sample of the exceptional dining and craft beverage experiences found throughout Prince William.
Enjoy an Evening at Bistro L’Hermitage
Bistro l’Hermitage. Photo by Zack Owen
Classic French cuisine, attentive service, and an elegant atmosphere have made Bistro L’Hermitage a favorite destination for celebrations and memorable evenings.
Experience Italy at Monza
Monza
Located in Historic Downtown Manassas, Monza pairs authentic Italian flavors with warm hospitality. Take your time, enjoy another course, and savor the experience.
Dine Waterfront at The Spot at Belmont Bay
Few dining experiences rival a great meal with waterfront views. Relax on the patio, watch the boats pass, and enjoy one of Prince William’s most scenic settings.
Tour KO Distilling
Learn how award-winning spirits are crafted right here in Prince William. A tour and tasting offer a behind-the-scenes look at one of Virginia’s most recognized distilleries.
Gather with Friends at Sinistral Brewing Company
The patio at Sinistral Brewing
Great beer brings people together, and Sinistral Brewing has become a favorite gathering place for residents looking to enjoy locally crafted brews and community events.
Walk Through History
Prince William’s history stretches far beyond the pages of a textbook. These destinations offer opportunities to connect with the people and events that shaped our region.
Visit the National Museum of the Marine Corps
National Museum of the Marine Corps
Powerful exhibits and immersive storytelling make this one of the nation’s premier military museums and a destination every resident should experience.
Explore Manassas National Battlefield Park
Walk the historic landscape where pivotal Civil War battles unfolded and gain a deeper appreciation for the events that helped shape our nation’s history.
Visit the Barnes House
Barnes House Historic Site
Learn about the lives, resilience, and contributions of African Americans in Prince William County through this important historic landmark.
Follow the Manassas Black History Trail
Discover the stories behind eight interpretive markers honoring educators, entrepreneurs, veterans, churches, and community leaders whose contributions helped shape Manassas.
Spend an Afternoon in Historic Downtown Manassas
Historic Downtown Manassas
History comes alive as you stroll tree-lined streets filled with unique shops, restaurants, historic buildings, and community gathering spaces.
Arts, Books & Local Discoveries
Creativity thrives throughout Prince William. Spend time supporting the artists, performers, writers, and small businesses that enrich our community.
Attend a Performance at the ARTfactory
The ARTfactory
From theatrical productions to art exhibits and youth performances, the ARTfactory continues to inspire audiences of all ages.
Hear the Manassas Symphony Orchestra
Manassas Symphony Orchestra (photo credit: Ginger Carroll, Gingersnaps Photography)
Experience outstanding live music close to home while supporting one of the region’s longest-standing performing arts organizations.
Browse Cozy Calico Books
Spend an afternoon exploring the shelves of this independent bookstore in Occoquan and leave with your next favorite read.
Visit Sleepy Dragon Books
Independent bookstores build community one reader at a time. Browse, discover a new author, and support a locally owned business.
Attend the McCall Studio Red Carpet Arts Gala
Community gala event at McCall Design Studio
Celebrate local artists and creative talent during one of Prince William’s signature arts events.
Celebrate the Seasons
Some traditions only come around once each year. Make time for these annual experiences that bring our community together.
Visit a Local Farmers Market
Fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, handcrafted items, and conversations with local growers make farmers markets one of the best ways to experience the changing seasons.
Attend the Occoquan Tree Lighting
Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season as one of Prince William’s most charming towns comes alive with lights, music, and festive traditions.
Watch the Greater Manassas Christmas Parade
Bundle up, find a spot along the route, and enjoy one of the area’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Carve a Pumpkin at Veterans Memorial Park
Gather the family for an afternoon of creativity and fun during this popular fall tradition.
Volunteer Through Volunteer Prince William
Perhaps the most meaningful experience on this list is giving back. Whether you volunteer for a few hours or make an ongoing commitment, you’ll discover that serving others is one of the best ways to experience the heart of our community.
How Many Can You Check Off?
Whether you complete five or all 25, every experience offers an opportunity to discover something new, support local businesses and organizations, and create memories close to home. If we missed one of your favorites, we’d love to hear about it. It may find its way onto next year’s Prince William Bucket List.
Rebecca Barnes is the publisher of Prince William Living. A lifelong Prince William County resident, she is passionate about connecting people with the businesses, organizations, and experiences that make our community exceptional. When she’s not publishing magazines or helping clients tell their stories, you’ll often find her volunteering with the OWL Volunteer Fire Department, spending time with her family, planning her next Walt Disney World adventure, or searching for a quiet place to read a good book.
