Virginia is not only for Lovers, it’s for Families Too!

One thing I love to do is travel. Whether it’s miles away or just a short drive, I can guarantee you that we get around! Just a few weeks ago I ventured out to Prince William County, Virginia for a mini retreat and I’m glad I did! Less than an hour away from the DC and Maryland borders, I figured it was worth a try since I typically only head that way when I’m hitting up Potomac Mills or IKEA (wink). Let me tell you, I uncovered so many gems in Prince William County that I’m kind of sad that I’ve deprived my family of all the great spots we could have visited during summer break. Nevertheless, plan your visit with my recommendation of places to eat, sleep and play. If  you have kids, great, if not, you can follow this itinerary too! Trust me you won’t be disappointed.

Stay

Comfort Inn Suites – Woodbridge, VA
Located right off Interstate 95 and directly across the street from Potomac Mills and a ton of other stores, sits the Comfort Inn Suite Woodbridge. With kids in tow, fancy can sometimes go out the window because I’m looking for space, convenience, proximity to attractions, a pool and other cool amenities.
A perfect hotel for families with so many amenities and big spacious rooms. There are a variety of breakfast items to choose from and the staff provides great service. It hit every check-mark on my list when it comes to looking for places to stay. I give it a 4.5 out of 5!

Good Eats

Duck Donuts – Woodbridge, VA @ Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center
Have you ever tasted a custom-made, hot, scrumptious, sugar all over your face donut? Duck Donuts of Woodbridge has been open just a few short weeks and the lines are already out the door, I’m serious. Duck Fans of all ages were waiting patiently to get their hands on these delicious treats. Okay, you need to know that there is a precise way to place your order: 1.) Pick your coating 2.) Pick your Toppings 3.) Choose your Drizzle. With so many combinations, you’ll definitely get something different each time. For families with nut allergies, Duck Donuts does offer the option of preparing donuts in a separate prep area. Not to mention the Sundae Funday donut topped with ice cream and sprinkles, yeah you’ve got to try it!

City Grille of Manassas
Known by many of the locals for their daily specials and gorgeous outdoor dining patio, City Grille of Manassas is a Classic American restaurant. We visited for Sunday Brunch and I could barely eat everything on my plate. Served buffet style along with an omelette station our eyes were bigger than our stomachs. City Grille is decorated with unique pictures on the wall, I mean almost every wall. The buffet decorations were a highlight as they showcased animal fruit carvings. You would want to know that Sunday Brunch is free for children 5 years or younger. You’re welcome.

Ornery Beer Company
In the heart of Woodbrige, VA you can find Beer Bang shrimp, chicken and waffle bites and a flight of wine at the area’s first brewpub, Ornery Beer Company. Offering over 10 hand crafted ales and lagers, you’re bound to sample all of them before picking your favorite. The restaurant is pretty big and has a big party room-styled area where you can look over into the brewery. The atmosphere is conducive for families and to those hanging out for happy hour. When it comes to the food, there are a variety of options, so we did what most people do when they can’t make a decision, we tried some of everything, including specialty drinks! All the dishes were cooked to perfection and we had the chance to try a few new creations by the Chef.  While you’re there, don’t forget to ask for a brewery tour!

Play

Stay the Night or Take a Hike in Prince William Forest Park
Covering over 15,000 areas of preserved land, Prince William Forest Park offers more than what meets the eye. Just beyond the visitors center are campgrounds, cabins playgrounds and 16 trails. Kids can explore the park with activity guides and scheduled Ranger-led programs. We had the pleasure of touring the 6-person cabin which included electricity and a fan! The cabin rentals are fairly inexpensive ranging from $40 for a four-person cabin to $60 for a 10-person cabin.I’ll admit, I’m use to “glamping” not camping but I could really see us renting a cabin in the near future.

Take a look back through history at the Manassas Battlefield
At the edge of the battlefield sits a house where a family once lived. Not wanting to leave her home in the middle of the battlefield, they were unfortunately killed during the crossfires we’re told. Other national parks I’ve been to don’t really have museums but this one does.  Located inside the Visitors Center, you can find a small museum filled with artifacts, stories and exhibits. I would recommend you to spend about 15-20 minutes there and be on your way. Beyond the history lesson are trails that extend through the mountains where mother nature takes her course. Kids can sign up for the Junior Rangers program if you want to take a deeper dive and explore from a different angle.

Uptown Alley – Manassas Mall
Talking about all-in-one entertainment, Uptown Alley is the place to be where everyone can have a good time. This place has spared no expense giving us bowling, laser tag, a full arcade, live entertainment, multiple TVs to catch the games, billiards and an “adults only” lounge. Unlike other establishments I’ve been to, the food and drinks were very very good. My only complaint is that the service is a bit slow. Our waiter was awesome but we waited about 45 minutes for appetizers. I didn’t really notice the time lapse at first because they were playing all the right music all while watching a football game on the 10’ X 15’ projection screens! Despite the slow service, everyone I passed had a big smile on their face and seemed to be having fun. It’s a playground for the entire family.

Autobahn – Manassas Mall 
No speed limit is the phrase I read when walking into the Autobahn Speedway. Ready to race like my life depended on it, I had a blast during my indoor go-karting experience. Equipped with gear and karts for children and adults, these go-karts are NOT for little kids. Junior kart racers must be at least 48″ tall and 8 years old, no exceptions. The karts run at decreased speeds and a few less laps while the F1 inspired “adult” karts hit speeds up to 50MPH. The Grand Prix style track is very slick so you’ll need to bring your A game or the staff will just adjust the speed for you. I’m proud to say that I do have the need for speed in my blood and I came out on top with a win!

I think I’ve summed up the perfect staycation only a few miles outside of Washington, DC. Prince William County’s rich heritage, variety of great food options, tons of places for entertainment and let’s not forget shopping, will forever be on my list of places to getaway. Ready to go? Visit the Discover Prince William & Manassas Convention and Visitors Bureau to plan your trip!

Disclaimer: This was a hosted event and  received complimentary services, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own.