From a lasting tribute to the U.S. Marines to guided tours of quaint towns, there are plenty of things to do in Virginia
This itinerary blends a tribute to our military heroes and a critical American Civil War battlefield with delicious food, craft beers, wine and local shopping. The result is a masterful experience for groups in Prince William, Virginia’s charming towns.
Duration: 3 Days Available: Year-round Ideal For: Adults
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Day 1: Lunch at an officer’s club, a famous national cemetery and more things to do in Virginia
Arrive early afternoon for an elegant lunch in the Officer’s Club on Marine Corps Base Quantico.
Quantico National Cemetery
Next, visit Quantico National Cemetery, where our nation’s veterans are remembered. Have the honor of helping the Missing in America Project, an organization that aims to find, identify and inter unclaimed remains of fallen veterans. Experience a once in a lifetime opportunity by participating in placing flags at the graves of these forgotten heroes.
National Museum of the Marine Corps
Next, it’s on to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, a lasting tribute to U.S. Marines past, present and future. Also, you can visit Historic Occoquan with plenty of dining options before settling in at your group-friendly hotel.
Day 2: Local iconic dishes, a scenic boat tour and other Virginia activities
This morning, receive a warm welcome from the town of Occoquan’s mayor, Earnie Porta. Enjoy a guided tour of this quaint riverside community as he highlights the history and unique details of Occoquan. Discover stories of the historic buildings and how the town got its name. Get a taste of Occoquan’s best culinary creations and libations during an Occoquan Progressive Meal. Start at the Bottle Stop with a delicious appetizer and glass of wine. Choose from starters like the parmesan-asiago dip or the seared buffalo & smoked chipotle sausage bathed in cheddar-beer sauce. Before you leave, browse their collection of small production wines and craft beer from around the world to take home.
Madigan’s Waterfront
Take a scenic stroll along the water to Madigan’s Waterfront for your main course. Enjoy a platter featuring mini crab cakes, chicken salad filled pastry cup and filet of tilapia topped with chopped tomatoes and basil with a balsamic glaze.
Miss Rivershore
Then, board Miss Rivershore for a boat tour along the river and take in the beautiful scenery as your captain highlights the history and unique features about the area. For dessert, choose from one of the many decadent flavors of handcrafted pastry from Mom’s Apple Pie. Enjoy a slice of Bourbon Walnut or Virginia Blackberry pie as you sail along the Occoquan River.
After dessert, So Olive can provide a tasting and education about their unique olive oils, such as the blood orange fused olive oil. Peruse their selection of over 20 different flavors of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for use at home. After spending time exploring the unique shops, unwind at Brew Republic Bierwerks, where you’ll discover the brewing process from start to finish, before shopping at Stonebridge Potomac Town Center.
Day 3: Civil War history, local wine and more Virginia treasures
Manassas National Battlefield
After breakfast, start your morning with a Civil War guide dressed in his military uniform who will lead you to Manassas National Battlefield “Where the southern victories tested the national resolve.” This was the first major land battle of the United States Civil War. Two armies clashed for the first time and heavy fighting swept away any notion of a quick war. Afterwards, visit a Civil war hospital at the Ben Lomond Historical Site. Soldiers were taken here after the Battle of First Manassas to care for their wounds. Many left signatures on the walls to prove it. Learn about 19th century medicine used to care for the injured soldiers.
2 Silos Brewing Company
Enjoy lunch at Virginia Gateway Center, a premier shopping destination boasting a selection of more than 120 regional and local shops and restaurants in a convenient shopper-friendly environment. After lunch, visit Effingham Manor Winery to sample their signature wine ‘Kings Ransom,’ or enjoy craft beer, craft food and live local music at 2 Silos Brewing Company, a place where locals bring their friends.
Before calling it a night, it’s time for dinner at Out of the Blue, a neighborhood crab and seafood house serving fresh and diverse seafood. Be sure to try their lobster bisque.
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