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15 Top Things to Do in Northern Virginia

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Northern Virginia is home to a variety of attractions ranging from memorials, museums, and historic sites to state and national parks, guided walking tours, and scenic hiking trails. “NoVa,” as the region is referred to by residents, includes the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park as well as Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Stafford, and Prince William counties, providing plenty of places to check out on your next trip to this exciting part of Virginia, whether you’re day tripping from nearby Washington, D.C. or plan to spend more time in the area.

Learn About Alexandria's Black History on a Walking Tour

Manumission Tour Company

Started by former Alexandria City Councilman John Taylor Chapman in 2016, Manumission Tour Company takes visitors on a guided walking tour of Old Town Alexandria, focusing on the experiences of the city’s African and African American residents during the 18th and 19th centuries. Each walking tour is about 90 minutes long and there are several themes to choose from depending on your interests. 

The "Freedom’s Fight in Alexandria" tour focuses on the city’s early history of urban slavery prior to the Civil War and inspiring stories of the runaway slaves, freemen, and abolitionists who helped others escape via the Underground Railroad, as well as others who stood up against slavery in a time when most wouldn’t. The "Duke Street Black History Tour" highlights Alexandria’s role as a major center of the domestic slave trade—Duke Street was formerly known as the Slave Trail of Tears since so many people were forced to march through here on their journey south to work on plantations as far as Louisiana. "Still’s Underground Railroad Walking Tour" takes a closer look at abolitionist William Still’s 1872 book, The Underground Railroad , and what the experience was like for the fugitive slaves who used it to escape to freedom.

Raise a Glass in Loudoun County

Visit Loudoun

Perfect for a day trip from D.C. or a grand romantic getaway at a bed and breakfast, Loudoun County boasts over 40 wineries, more than 30 breweries, and a smattering of cideries and distilleries to choose from. Spend some time tasting your way through craft breweries along the LoCo Ale Trail , or sampling farm-to-table fare as you explore area wineries home to grape varietals like Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Viognier, and Norton, among others. There are plenty of places for lovers of cider, mead, and other distilled spirits to check out as well.

Go On a Ghost Tour in Old Town Alexandria

Alexandria Colonial Tours

For an entertaining hourlong nighttime stroll complete with intriguing tales about some of Old Town’s most famous former residents, don’t miss the Ghost & Graveyard Tour by Alexandria Colonial Tours. Your guided walk begins outside the Visitor Center on King Street—you’ll know where when you see the costumed tour guides waiting with their lanterns—and takes you on a six-block walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Town Alexandria. Note that due to the nature of the tour and stories told, this experience is recommended for children ages 9 and up.

Pay Your Respects at Arlington National Cemetery

TripSavvy / Victoria Chamberlain

Arlington National Cemetery is one of the region's most-visited sites, with more than four million coming to pay their respects each year. Over 400,000 American service members, veterans, and their family members are buried at the 612-acre cemetery, located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Stroll the grounds and visit the graves of notable Americans like William Howard Taft, John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Robert Kennedy, among others who made this their final resting place. Witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and visit Arlington House, the former home of Robert E. Lee.

Tour George Washington's Former Home

Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens , George Washington's home along the Potomac River, is one of the most historic attractions in the region. Visit the original mansion, outbuildings, gardens, slave quarters, slave burial ground, and museum to learn more about the life of our first president, his family, and the people who lived there, enslaved or otherwise. Special programs take place all year long offering a glimpse into how events and holidays like Christmas and Halloween were celebrated in the 18th century, so check the website to find out what’s going on when you plan to visit.

See Nature in All its Glory at Great Falls Park

Merdanata / Pixabay

Great Falls Park, an 800-acre piece of outdoor paradise along the Potomac River , is one of the most spectacular natural landmarks in Northern Virginia and an excellent spot for outdoor recreation. Spend a few hours hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, cycling, or picnicking as you admire the view and enjoy some time in the fresh air.

Visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

This Northern Virginia outpost of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum near Dulles International Airport displays the massive space shuttle Discovery, a Lockheed SR-71, and several other impressive aircraft and spacecraft as well as other aviation-related artifacts. You’ll also find an IMAX theater , several simulator activities, and exhibits for children.

Honor the Marines at the Iwo Jima Memorial

gs8 / Twenty20

The U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, honors the many Marines who have died defending the country since 1775. The 32-foot-high sculpture was inspired by a Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph depicting the memorable scene of a flag being raised at Mount Suribachi by U.S. Marines during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II.

Visit the U.S. Air Force Memorial

The U.S. Air Force Memorial, which is visible from both Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., honors the millions of men and women who have served in the United States Air Force. The sculpture symbolizes flight and the flying spirit with three stainless steel spires soaring 270 feet high, representing the contrails of Air Force Thunderbirds as they disperse during a "bomb burst" maneuver.

See a Concert at Wolf Trap National Park

Wolf Trap Foundation

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of performances ranging from pop, country, folk, and blues music to classical, dance, theater, and opera. The Northern Virginia concert venue, located in Vienna, showcases talent and offers educational programs all year long, while its 7,000-seat Filene Center makes an ideal venue for an outdoor summer concert.

Visit Manassas National Battlefield Park

Rachel Cooper

The 5,000-acre Manassas National Battlefield Park preserves the site of the First and Second Battles of Manassas during the Civil War. The Henry Hill Visitor Center features a 45-minute orientation film, while a museum displays Civil War-era uniforms, weapons, and artifacts. The Northern Virginia attraction offers a variety of activities, scenic vistas, and walking trails to help give you a better feel for the size of the battles that took place here so many years ago and the lives that were lost here.

Tour the National Museum of the Marine Corps

The 135-acre National Museum of the Marine Corps, located in Triangle near the U.S. Marine Corps Base at Quantico, uses state-of-the-art interactive technology, multi-media exhibits, and thousands of artifacts to bring to life the values, mission, and culture of this celebrated U.S. military branch. It’s part of the Marine Corps Heritage Center, a complex of facilities that also includes a memorial park, parade grounds, artifact restoration facilities, an on-site conference center, and a hotel.

See Great Art at a Former Torpedo Factory

The aptly-named Torpedo Factory Art Center is one of Old Town Alexandria’s top attractions, located along the docks of the Potomac River. Built during World War I as a munitions factory, the building houses a visual arts center consisting of three floors featuring 84 working studios, five galleries, two workshops, the Art League School, and the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. It’s a great place to see artists at work and find unique gifts to bring back home.

Run or Cycle the Mount Vernon Trail

The Mount Vernon Trail is an 18-mile paved multi-use recreation trail that follows the west bank of the Northern Virginia side of the Potomac River from Theodore Roosevelt Island, through Old Town Alexandria, and out to George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. The path is a favorite of area cyclists and runners and offers terrific views of D.C.’s famous landmarks along the way.

Wander Through Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Tom Stovall / DC Gardens

The 95-acre garden is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend an afternoon checking out its walking trails, lakes, cherry trees, irises, peonies, extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, gazebos, birds, and butterflies. You’ll also find an indoor atrium, picnic areas, and educational facilities offering gardening and horticulture workshops, guided tours, concerts, and volunteer programs. During the holiday season, Meadowlark hosts the Winter Walk of Lights, a fantastic display of holiday lights that is definitely worth planning a visit around.

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19 Best Wineries in Northern Virginia

Northern Virginia is a great destination for wine lovers. Visiting some of the best wineries in Northern Virginia is a great way to try world-class wines while taking in lovely views of the surrounding Virginia countryside.

Northern Virginia wineries are generally located in Loudoun County, Fauquier County, Prince William County, and other points to the west and south of Northern Virginia.

The wineries comprise a sizable and ever-growing collection of high-quality wineries that are an easy drive from Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.

It generally takes as little as 30 minutes or up to 1-2 hours to reach many Northern Virginia wineries from the DC Metro area. 

Winery visits are a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, take a great road trip, or spend a weekend or a day off.

Below are some of my top recommendations for the best wineries in Northern Virginia.

Note:  This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please see the  Disclaimer .

Top Photo by Moritz Knöringer on Unsplash .

Want to learn about the  EASIEST  way to visit some of the best wineries in Virginia? Check out my recommendations for  The Best Virginia Wine Bus Tours !

Map of the Best Wineries in Northern Virginia

The Best Wineries in Northern Virginia

1. paradise springs winery.

13219 Yates Ford Rd, Clifton, VA 20124

• Saturday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
• Friday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Description

Paradise Springs Winery is located in Clifton, VA, which makes it one of the closest wineries to visit in the DC metro area . It is generally quick and easy to get to.

The setting is lovely. The winery is on a quiet country road with rolling hills and trees. It is located right next to Hemlock Park, so you can take a nature walk after enjoying some wine.

Paradise Springs is also close to the town of Clifton, where there are a lot of cute boutique shops and restaurants to explore. There is indoor seating, as well as tables where you can eat and drink outside.

To take your wine experience even further, you can book the “Experience Tour and Tasting”, which is available on Saturdays and Sundays. 

You can purchase cheeses, meats, crackers, baguettes, and spreads. The Paradise Springs Food Truck serves pizza, tacos, sandwiches, and other items.

Dogs Allowed?

Dogs are allowed outside, but not inside.

2. Barrel Oak Winery and Farm Tap House

3623 Grove ln, Delaplane, VA 20144

• Monday to Thursday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Sunday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Barrel Oak Winery is an expansive property with large rolling hills filled with picnic tables. The setting is lovely, with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

The winery is especially popular among dog lovers. In fact, is known for being the most dog-friendly winery in Virginia.

On any given day, you will find many dog owners with their beloved four-legged friends. It is the perfect destination for dog lovers. Water bowls are available for dogs too.

Food trucks are available on Saturdays and Sundays, plus bringing your own food for a picnic is encouraged. 

Yes, dogs are allowed.

3. Greenhill Winery and Vineyards

23595 Winery Ln, Middleburg, VA 20117

May to September:

• Monday – Thursday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm

October to April:

Open Daily: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Greenhill Winery and Vineyards is another one of the best wineries in Northern Virginia. Their wines are excellent, with a robust, full flavor.

The vineyard has a large tasting room. They also have a lovely outdoor seating area with views of the surrounding rolling hills and a large pond nearby for taking a walk. 

They sell charcuterie platters. You can also bring your own food to eat in the outside areas only. 

4. Narmada Winery

43 Narmada Ln, Amissville, VA 20106

Narmada Winery has beautiful outside terraces that overlook the hills and vineyard. The inside decor is spacious and welcoming as well.

Some notable wines include the MOM wine and dessert wines, which have a refreshing and light flavor. The winery also features wine slushies, which are a perfect warm-weather treat.

The winery also features live music on select dates.

• Saturday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm

Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Indian staples such as butter chicken, vegetarian samosas, chickpea curry, saag, and onion kulcha; cheese and charcuterie boards; hummus and artichoke dips. Outside food is permitted in outside areas. 

5. Gray Ghost Vineyards

14706 Lee Hwy, Amissville, VA 20106

March through December:

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Wednesday and Thursday: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

January and February:

Saturday, Sunday, and Federal Monday Holidays: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Gray Ghost Vineyards is another top winery in northern Virginia. Their wines are all excellent.

Some of their award-winning wines include Gewurztraminer, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Victorian Red. They have a small but tranquil outdoor seating area with a pretty gazebo, statues, and flowers. 

You can bring outside food to eat indoors and outdoors. 

Yes, dogs are allowed outdoors, but not indoors.  

6. Pearmund Cellars

6190 Georgetown Rd, Broad Run, VA 20137

Open Daily: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Pearmund Cellars is another great winery in Northern Virginia. They have a large outside seating area with picnic benches and bistro tables overlooking the surrounding vineyards and hills. They even feature seating at tables in between the vines themselves, which is pretty cool and immersive.

Their wines are excellent as well. Some of their best wines include Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, Rose, and Brut Reserve.

They sell snacks, including meats, cheeses, nuts, dips, and chocolates. You can bring outside food as well.

Yes, dogs are allowed.  

7. Vint Hill Craft Winery

7150 Lineweaver Rd, Warrenton, VA 20187

Open Wednesday to Sunday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Vint Hill Craft Winery has an interesting story. It was a dairy farm in the early 20th century. The owner was also into ham radio, and one day he happened to pick up strange German transmissions over his radio. He notified the government, and it was soon discovered that the dairy farm was the perfect geographic site for picking up German transmissions during World War II.

The government came in and began working out of the top level of the dairy farm, and they even dressed up as dairy farmers to blend it and avoid suspicion. The site essentially became the first NSA. It was a working military site until 1992.

The structures nearby include former military barracks. The site is not as photogenic as many wineries in Virginia, but it makes up for it with history. There is even a Cold War Museum next door to the winery that you can visit. There are also two cafes and a brewery nearby.

They feature a large selection of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon , Sauvignon Blanc , Chardonnay, Viognier, and Merlot.

You can also make a stop at the nearby Old Bust Head Brewery for some interesting beers, including Caramel Macchiato and Strawberry Rhubarb.

There are several cafes nearby, including the Covert Cafe, that sell sandwiches, pizza, fries, burgers, and wraps.

8. Three Fox Vineyards and Brewery

10100 Three Fox Ln, Delaplane, VA 20144

• Friday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
• Sunday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Three Fox Vineyards and Brewery features a large modern building with gorgeous modern touches like hardwood floors, large windows, and contemporary chandeliers. It also has a lot of seating areas, either inside, or outside along the wrap-around patio or on the surrounding hill.

They have some excellent wines. Our favorites were a rose and sangria, which we purchased to share in a carafe. There is also a cute babbling brook at the base of the hill near the winery, where you can take a leisurely stroll.

They sell pre-packaged food and often have a food truck on site. You can also bring your own food for a picnic.

9. Bluemont Vineyard

18755 Foggy Bottom Rd, Bluemont, VA 20135

• Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
• Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Bluemont Vineyard is another example of one of the best wineries in Northern Virginia. It is a sprawling winery and cidery that sits high on top of a hill in the Virginia countryside. It features some of the best views of any Northern Virginia winery.

The views from the top of the hill are gorgeous, allowing you to look down on the rolling hillside below.

The winery can get a little crowded, though there are a lot of places to sit and drink, including outside on the patios, and inside in the wood-paneled 951 Tasting Room. They have a cidery on-site as well.

Bluemont features special events like all-day brunches and tea parties. They also have cozy cottages where you can stay overnight.

They offer cheese plates, flatbreads, hummus, desserts, and other dishes. The current menu can be found here . Outside food is not permitted.

10. Veramar Vineyard

905 Quarry Rd, Berryville, VA 22611

• Monday to Thursday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Friday: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
• Saturday: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
• Sunday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Veramar Vineyard is located near trees and farmland and features a charming and cozy interior tasting room, plus an expansive outside seating area with lovely views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

Veramar has a Wine Camp , where you can spend a weekend learning about what it takes to own and run a vineyard. You get a chance to participate in seasonal wine-making activities and learn about wine-making in Virginia.

They offer lite fare for purchase. You can also bring food for a picnic.

Yes, dogs are allowed but only outside.  

11. Phil ip Carter Winery

4366 Stillhouse Rd, Hume, VA 22639

• Monday to Friday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Philip Carter Winery has a lovely indoor seating area, plus patio seating and other seating areas outside. They offer crackers with wine tastings, which has become rare among wineries post-Covid.

One of the highlights of the trip to Philip Carter was the fact that they sell Moonshine Jelly in their small gift shop. I was so curious that I had to purchase it to try it out. It is mostly sugar, but it is made with moonshine and is clear in color. It’s like jam with a bit of a kick.

Yes, dogs are allowed but only outside.

12. Stone Tower Winery

19925 Hogback Mountain Rd, Leesburg, VA 20175

Thursday to Monday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Stone Tower Winery is located in the heart of Virginia wine country in Leesburg, VA, which is a popular winery destination in Loudoun County.

The winery boasts a gorgeous sprawling building and a beautiful setting on Hogback Mountain.

For a fee, you can also book a golf cart  tour  of the vineyards, plus a tasting of their premium estate bottles.

The winery hosts other regular  events , such as the  Holiday Market  and the  Italy SOMMinar.

The winery is also a great location for weddings.

They have food available for sale at the Harvest Barn, including sandwiches, salads, and meat & cheese boards.

The Tasting Room features additional menu items, including a charcuterie board, cheese board, truffle fries, and hummus.

You can find their full  menu  online.

Yes, leashed dogs are allowed outside.

13. Potomac Point Winery

275 Decatur Rd, Stafford, VA 22554

• Monday and Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday and Thursday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Friday: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
• Saturday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
• Sunday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Potomac Point Winery is one of the best wineries in Virginia. It is located near the Potomac River in Stafford, VA.

The winery boasts spectacular views and has numerous seating areas where you can enjoy its fine wines. They have a courtyard, the D’Vine Lounge, Veranda, Picnic Areas, a Tasting Room, and a Gift Shop.

The winery offers two wine tastings:  Grand Cru , which features the highest-quality wines, and  Premier Cru , which features fan-favorite wines and great value wines.

Their white wines and roses include  Petit Manseng, Chardonnay,  and  Moscato Dolce.  Their red wines include  Norton  (a specialty in Virginia) , Petit Verdot,  and  Cabernet Franc .

You can find a  full wine list  online.

They have a restaurant on-site,  Le Grand Cru Bistro . The Bistro serves Artisan Cheese Board, Salads, Soups, and small plates such as Lamb Meatballs, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, and Baked Shrimp and Crab Cakes.

They also serve Sandwiches, Burgers, Flatbreads, Entrees, and Desserts.

You can find a  full menu  online.

The winery also serves a Tuscan-inspired brunch on Sundays. The brunch menu includes Mulled Wine French Toast, Steak & Eggs, and Chef’s Inspired Omelet. They also offer several mimosas, including an Apple Cider Mimosa.

Please note that reservations are required for eating at the  Le Grand Cru Bistro .

You can also bring picnic food to eat outside.

Yes, dogs are allowed, though not in all spaces. Please check their  website  for more information.

14. Breaux Vineyards

36888 Breaux Vineyards Ln, Purcellville, VA 20132

Open Daily: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Breaux Vineyards sits on over 400 acres near Short Hill Mountain. Their wines have won numerous national and international awards.

The winery has a lovely and expansive tasting room with views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. There are also numerous outdoor seating spaces that are perfect for warm weather, including a covered patio.

The winery hosts a large number of  events  for the whole family. Some of the events include Autumn Wine Glass Paint and Sip (where you can paint your own wine glasses!), an Annual Barrel Tasting, and Holiday Ornament Paint and Sip.

The winery also hosts a number of live music performances. You can check out the latest schedule of  events  online.

They have a kitchen that is open daily, plus pre-packaged cheese and charcuterie, chips, crackers, dips, and spreads available.

Their full  menu  has items like hamburgers, paninis, soups, and flatbreads.

Yes, dogs are allowed in the Old Tasting room (Vin97) and outdoors.

15. Aspen Dale Winery

11083 John Marshall Hwy, Delaplane, VA 20144

• Monday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Sunday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Aspen Dale Winery is another great destination for dog lovers. They allow dogs both inside and outside. 

The winery is filled with history. It is located on the site of a 200-year-old barn!

Animal lovers can also stroll around the property and say hi to the six resident horses and Nubian goats.

The winery features red, white, and sweet wine flights with food pairings! Their sweet flights include bubbly hard cider and Maria Sangria. 

The winery features some unique and delicious food options, including pheasant summer sausages (plain and jalapeño), sharp cheddar cheese, baguettes, apple cider donuts, and sugar cookies.

You can also bring your own food to eat both inside and outside.

Yes, dogs are allowed inside and outside.

Additional Wineries in Northern Virginia 

Below are some additional wineries in Northern Virginia:

• The Winery at Bull Run (Centreville, VA) – Note: this winery does not allow dogs.
• The Winery at La Grange (Haymarket, VA)
• The Winery at Sunshine Ridge (Gainesville, VA)
• Cana Vineyards and Winery of Middleburg (Middleburg, VA)

Best Wineries in Northern Virginia With Food

• Potomac Point Vineyard and Winery is one of the best wineries in Northen Virginia with food. They have an excellent restaurant on site: Le Grand Cru Bistro . The Bistro serves Artisan Cheese Board, Salads, Soups, and small plates such as Lamb Meatballs, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, and Baked Shrimp and Crab Cakes. They also feature an excellent Sunday Brunch with entrees like Mulled Wine French Toast.
• Narmada Winery features excellent and unique Indian dishes such as butter chicken, vegetarian samosas, chickpea curry, saag, and onion kulcha. They also sell cheese and charcuterie boards, hummus, and artichoke dips.
• Aspen Dale Winery features unique and delicious food like pheasant summer sausages (plain and jalapeño), sharp cheddar cheese, baguettes, apple cider donuts, and sugar cookies.

Northern Virginia Wineries with the Best Views

• Bluemont Vineyard is the top Northern Virginia winery with the best views. It sits high on top of a hill with sprawling views of the surrounding hills and countryside.
• Potomac Point Vineyard and Winery has multiple seating areas both inside and outside, including a New Orleans-styled courtyard, a Tuscan-inspired lounge, and veranda with views of the sunset and vineyard.
• Greenhill Winery and Vineyard features lovely views of a nearby pond and surrounding countryside.

Best Wineries Near Washington, D.C.

• Paradise Springs Winery is just 32 miles from Washington, D.C., which makes it one of the closest wineries to the Nation’s Capitol. It’s a popular weekend destination for wine lovers in Northern Virginia.
• The Urban Winery is located in Silver Spring, just 7 miles from D.C. They produce over 30 wines and feature other Maryland wines.

Guided Wine Tours 

One of the best and most relaxing ways to enjoy the many wineries that Northern Virginia has to offer is to schedule a guided tour of the local vineyards.

These options often include free pick up and drop off, and they allow you to just sit back and relax while you are driven and guided in comfort to the local wineries. 

You can find a comprehensive list of the best private and guided Virginia Wine Bus Tours .

Below are some specific options for Wine Tours in Northern Virginia offered by Viator. I have taken many Viator tours over the years, in many different cities, and I have always had a great experience: 

Shenandoah Valley Vineyards Tour

This is an 8-9 hour wine tour offered by Viator. It leaves from L’Enfant Plaza in Washington, D.C., and includes a guided tour to Shenandoah vineyards, and then a stop in historic Winchester, VA. Lunch is included. 

Loudoun County Virginia Wine Country Private Tour

This tour offers pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel in Washington, D.C. It is a 10-hour tour that includes visits to 3 wineries of your own choice from a list of 6 wineries in Loudoun County, VA. The tour also includes snacks and drinks in a chauffeured SUV. 

Virginia Winery Day Tour

This is another tour that features pick-up and drop-off within Washington, D.C. It includes behind-the-scenes tours and tastings. The trip features stops at two area wineries, including a stop for lunch (available for purchase at one of the wineries.) 

What is the best time of year to visit Virginia wineries?

Many Virginia wineries are open year-round. The best time of year to visit tends to be in the warmer spring, summer, and fall months, particularly because this gives visitors the opportunity to sit outside and enjoy the lovely scenery around many Virginia wineries.

What area in Virginia has the most wineries?

Northern Virginia has the most wineries, with about 93 total wineries. Central Virginia has about 90 wineries.

How many wineries are in Northern VA?

There are about 93 wineries in the area classified as Northern Virginia.

Conclusion: The 19 Best Wineries in Northern Virginia

Northern Virginia is home to a thriving wine industry, with dozens of wineries located in the region. From classic varietals to unique blends, the wineries of Northern Virginia offer something for every palate.

Learn about even more great wineries in and around Virginia!

Find the best wineries near Leesburg, VA

Explore the best wineries near Luray, VA

Discover the best wine in Middleburg, VA

Find the best wineries in Virginia and Maryland

Find the best wineries in and around Charlottesville

Find the best wineries near Woodstock, VA

Explore the best wineries near Virginia Beach

Discover the best wineries near Chesapeake, VA

Dog-Friendly Wineries in Virginia

Indulge. Explore. Repeat.

Discover the Best of DC Wine Country With Cork and Keg Tours!

Welcome to Cork and Keg Tours, your passport to the­ heart of DC’s wine­ country. Immerse yourse­lf in the elegance­ and beauty of wineries in Loudoun County, VA as you embark on personally curated wine­ and brewery tours with us. We offer many different tour packages, including both public and private for parties of any size.

Experience the Cork and Keg Difference

Experience the Cork and Keg Difference with our expertly crafted wine­ tours. We are a local family business, with deep roots in the community, providing our guests with exclusive access to discounts and members only wines and tasting rooms. Work with a locally based Guest Experience Manager to customize your tour to your own specifications, or simply choose one of our curated tour routes. Our professional Tour Concierges ensure a relaxing and carefree experience while e­xploring the beauty of DC’s Wine Country; never pull out your wallet, never wait in line, and never lift a finger.

Explore DC’s Wine Country

Cork and Keg Tours is a Loudoun County based family business who loves to share their home with the world. Known as DC’s Wine Country, Loudoun County is home to over 50 Wineries, Vineyards, and Tasting Rooms. Loudoun County vineyards account for 20% of all wine produced in Virginia, making it the single largest producer of wine in the state. In fact, there are so many wineries, breweries, and distilleries in Loudoun County that you could do a tour every day for a month and still not see them all! Spend the day enjoying exquisite wine­ tastings and VIP treatment at renowne­d vineyards, such as Bluemont Vineyard and Stone­ Tower Winery. Explore the­ rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming tasting rooms that truly make DC’s wine country a hidde­n gem.

The Best of Northern Virginia’s Wine and Brewery Scene

Our team of local experts has curated the ultimate wine and brewery tour experience. Savor the flavors of award-winning wines, learn about the art of winemaking, and discover the unique stories behind each bottle. We pick you up and drop you off anywhere in Washington DC, Maryland, West Virginia, and Northern Virginia that is close enough to Loudoun County to ensure we have enough time for your tour. 

Our offerings extend be­yond just the wine. We also offer brewery tours, allowing you to explore the vibrant craft beer scene flourishing in this area.  Sip on crisp ales, flavorful IPAs, and stouts while­ learning the art of brewing with e­nthusiastic local artisans.

We love taking care of large parties

No party size is too large for DC’s Wine Country, and Cork and Keg Tours can assist party planning with our expertly crafted wine­ bus tours. With many Loudoun wineries doubling as popular wedding venues, there are spacious accommodations for even the largest of parties. Our fleet of luxurious vehicles ensures an e­njoyable journey while e­xploring the beauty of DC’s Wine Country.

Personalized Service and Local Expertise

Our community-rooted local experts and concierge­s fill your experie­nce with wisdom and a personal touch. They are committed to making your visit to DC's Wine Country e­xtraordinary with their re­commendations and exclusive inside­r tips.

Why Choose Cork and Keg Tours?

Luxurious Transportation: Travel in style with our fleet of luxury vehicles.

Local Partnerships: Benefit from special offers with our local partners.

Personalized Service: Our team is dedicated to providing a personalized and memorable experience.

Expertly Curated Tours: Our tours are designed by local experts who know the best spots in DC's Wine Country.

VIP Treatment: Enjoy exclusive access and VIP treatment at all our partner wineries and breweries.

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Perfect for groups of up to 13 guests seeking the ultimate luxurious and personalized tour.

Divine Wine Tours

Ideal for any size group looking to taste lots of different wines while also learning about their unique qualities.

Bachelorette Parties

Celebrate the bride to be in style, with luxurious transportation, beautiful scenic views, and custom slide shows capturing the memories.

Custom Wine Tours

Customize your tour your way, with over 50 wineries in Loudoun County, the options are limitless.

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Can’t decide? Why not try one of each, or even check out a cider barn or meadery, the possibilities are endless.

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Hop on with other wine enthusiasts to try new wine and bring some home to share with your family and friends.

Plan Your Perfect Day

A tour to serene wineries or bre­weries couldn't be simple­r than when you trust us to make the arrangements. Our personalized tours provide the fle­xibility to visit the places you love or uncover new tre­asures. Whether you are a wine collector, a casual enthusiast, celebrating a spe­cial occasion, or simply looking for a day out, we are dedicate­d to creating lasting memories for you.

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Ready for a wine and brewery adventure? Book your tour today and discover the magic of DC's Wine Country!

"I can’t

stop talking about how

perfect it was."

We took a tour for my bachelorette party and I can’t stop talking about how perfect it was.   This was the second time I have been on a tour with them and can’t wait to do it again. They really put thought into each part of the day and take the time to make it amazing!! ~ C.M.

"Having our own personal driver AND concierge was priceless!!"

This was such a fun adventure and the Cork and Keg team went out of their way to make sure we were well taken care of and enjoyed every moment of the tour. The tour van is so nice and such a comfortable ride and having our own personal driver and concierge was priceless!!

Highly recommend!!

What an amazing bachelorette party! 

Cork and Keg laid out the red carpet and made me feel so incredibly special! I was surrounded by my girlfriends as we went from 50 W., Boxwood winery to Green Hill winery. Every tasting was elegant and the food from Parallel was awesome!

"Forget Limo tours, forget the lame cheesy party bus!"

Cork & Keg Tours is so many levels above any other tour experience you will ever get! Forget Limo tours, forget the lame cheesy party bus! Cork & Keg Tours is high class, high quality service and experience. The quality of what you are paying for is amazing! The food, the tasting experience, the personalized service, such and experience to remember! Once you go Cork and Keg, you will never want to do it any other way!

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Fodor's Washington, D.C.: with Mount Vernon and Alexandria For over 80 years, Fodor's Travel has been a trusted resource offering expert travel...

Although D.C. gets all the recognition for its place in the nation's history, visitors to the region might be surprised by the richness of Northern Virginia. This border region—which originally contributed some of the land to create D.C.—is chockablock with historical references and diverse cultural experiences. Some of the greatest presidents used D.C.'s southern neighbor for their own plantation homes. (George Washington’s grand home Mount Vernon is a star attraction.) An influx of immigration has also brought an exciting variety of cuisines and a growing population of young professionals has housing complexes and food and drink options on the rise.

Traffic between the District and Northern Virginia goes both ways (each way slowly). Nearby areas have grown significantly in the recent past and have modern housing, government, and office buildings. Expansion west toward Dulles International Airport has been particularly massive, especially along the toll road to the airport and the in-progress Silver Line of the Metro. Because of their proximity to D.C., many residents consider themselves Washingtonians, though some Washingtonians think otherwise.

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Best Things to do in Northern Virginia You Shouldn’t Miss

Here you will see all of the best things to do in Northern Virginia!

January 20, 2023 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you on the search for the best things to do in Northern Virginia? NOVA is a beautiful and diverse region of Virginia. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. There are hundreds of historical sites and museums to explore. If you are looking for outdoor activities and delicious local cuisine, Northern Virginia has you covered there as well.

Calling all nature lovers and foodies because you’ll find plenty of things to see and eat in this vibrant area of the state. From the countryside to the bustling towns of Fairfax and Crystal City you could explore Virginia forever and never be bored. Now, let’s take a look through all the best things to do in Northern VA that you cannot miss!

The 15 Best Things to do in Northern Virginia You Shouldn’t Miss!

Tour mount vernon.

One of the first things to do in Northern Virginia is to visit the beautiful and historic Mount Vernon. This was once the home to George Washington for over 40 years. Today they open their doors for tourists to enjoy the beautiful grounds. Mount Vernon has been restored to resemble how life was lived back in the 1800s. You are able to tour many of the different buildings on the grounds.

Be sure to check their website when you are visiting. Depending on the time of year you may be able to catch one of the many festivals at Mount Vernon. During the spring they host an egg roll race and festivities that are so much fun for children.

At Christmas, it is decorated beautifully with thousands of twinkling lights. And you may even be able to catch the sunset and wine festival. No matter what time of the year you are thinking about visiting Mount Vernon is always one of the best things to do in Northern Virginia.

Being close to so much USA history is one of the best things about living in Virginia!

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is one of the best things to do near Northern Virginia and there is plenty to do for the whole family. With over 360 aircraft on display, there is also a huge collection of photographs, film, past research materials, missiles, air, and space crafts to view.

Take a ride on the space shuttle trainer it will give you a first-hand experience of what it is like to be an astronaut. Or try to take a break in the IMAX theater and catch the latest educational flick on aviation. It is always free to tour the museum, but if you are driving you will have to pay to park. You will love the time you spend here learning about America’s aviation history.

Visit the Old Town Alexandria

If you love beautiful architecture and fun things to do in Northern Virginia then you have to go to Old Town Alexandria. Most of the town of Alexandria was built back in the 18 and 19th centuries. Head down to the famous King Street to start your town of this beautiful historic town. This is where you will find all the best restaurants , shopping, and nightlife.

Another thing to not miss is the Potomac River waterfront. One of the best attractions is the Torpedo Factory Art Center. It is an old military fort that has been transformed into a beautiful art museum. There are displays, galleries, and even art classes you can sign up for. You will love the time you spent in Old Town Alexandria it is one of the cutest small towns in Northern VA.

National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History is one of the best activities in Northern Virginia, and like most museums in Washington DC , they are free. . They are located on Constitutional Ave and open every day of the year. The exhibits cover the colonial era all the way to the present day. The most popular display is the Star-Spangled banner exhibit where the first flag of America is held.

Another popular exhibit is the First Ladies Gowns. This is a beautiful collection of famous and iconic dresses worn by first ladies like Michelle Obama, Jackie Kennedy, and Nancy Reagan throughout the years. There are also plenty of historic items like the very first IBM computer, and the original Kermit the frog puppet.

Tour Georgetown

Georgetown is a great place to visit for history, architecture, and cultural lovers. There are charming cobblestone streets, a beautiful waterfront, and so much shopping. You could spend a few hours, days, or even a full week here exploring. The first stop should be the C&O canal. The Chesapeake and Ohio canal is the historic waterway that runs through Georgetown. It is a great place to walk and bike.

Another one of the best things to do in Northern Virginia is to visit the Old Stone House. This is the oldest untouched building in DC and it is such an amazing place to see. Then head over to either M Street or Wisconsin Avenue for the best shopping and restaurants in Georgetown . Take a step back in time and enjoy this beautiful and historic town in Northern VA.

Take a Stroll to see the Cherry Blossoms in the Spring in Northern Virginia & DC

If you are looking to visit in the spring and searching for free things to do in Northern Virginia the Cherry Blossoms are epic! Every year thousands of cherry trees blossom all over Washington DC. These gorgeous cherry trees are the first signs of spring and come with a giant festival that draws millions every year.

You will want to watch the Cherry indicator tree to plan your trip accordingly. The trees always bloom in the spring from late march to early April. But the exact time always varies. This is one of the best times to visit Northern Virginia for the weather and the blooming cherry trees.

Arlington National Cemetery in Northern Virginia

The Arlington National Cemetery is one of the top places to visit in Northern Virginia, it is right across the Potomac from DC. This is the final resting place for over 400,000 soldiers, service members, and their family members. There are memorials and monuments to view and plenty of opportunities to learn a little about history.

But the biggest attraction at the Arlington National Cemetery is the changing of the Honor Guards. The Honor Guards are always on the stand and are protecting the Unknown Solider. This is a tradition that honors all of the unknown soldiers who lost their lives in the many wars America has been in. You can tour the grounds alone, or try for a guided, educational tour.

Take a Tour of the Infamous Ford Theater

One of the best Northern Virginia activities is to take a tour of the infamous Ford Theater. If the Ford Theater is not ringing a bell it is where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated back in 1865. Today Ford Theater is still an open and working theater.

Sign up for a private tour and you will be able to see Lincoln’s top hat, a piece of the American flag that was placed on his casket, and a few other historic artifacts. Or you can stop by to see a play, they are usually held on the weekends. You should put visiting the Ford Theater high on your list of the best things to do in Northern Virginia.

The National Zoo in DC

 The National Zoo is one of the top things to do in Northern Virginia with kids, and it is free! This huge DC zoo is also a conservation for many different animal species. Plan to spend your whole day here exploring. You can spend your time looking through the many exhibits of insects, lizards, and spiders.

They also have a diverse collection of birds and mammals. The most popular animal to see are the panda bears. And one of the best things about the National Zoo is the endangered species conservation research center. The National Zoo is a leader in the conservation of animals. You can learn about why these animals are not thriving in their natural habitats and how we can help.

Drink a Glass or Bottle at the Greenhill Vineyards

Think picturesque views with a nice glass of wine. This is what you will get when visiting the beautiful Greenhill Vineyards. They offer in-house tastings where you can enjoy different types of wine and learn a little about the wine-making process. Take your pick from trying one of the reds, whites, sparkling, or dessert wines.

If you visit during the day you can walk around the Northern Virginia wine countryside. Bring a picnic and enjoy it with your new bottle of wine. On the weekends they offer food trucks and live music. You will not want to miss the Greenhill Vineyards they are one of the best things to do in Northern Virginia for adults.

Great Falls Park

If you want to get outside and are looking for what to do in Northern Virginia Great Falls Park is the perfect place for you to visit. Located near the town of McLean this national park boasts spectacular views of the Potomac river, hiking and biking trails, with rapids, and 76-foot cascades that are easily accessible. Do not forget your binoculars for bird watching, there are hundreds of different species.

There are over 15 miles of trails to explore and one short one that will take you to a beautiful waterfall. Keep your eye out for the historic Patowmack Canal, it was built back in the 18th century. At Great Falls Park you can also try rock climbing, kayaking, and fishing.

Take a Take Trip to Middletown, Virginia

Taking a short trip to scenic Middletown is one of the best things to do in Northern Virginia in the winter. This super cute town is located in the Shenandoah valley. When the rolling hills are covered in snow and you are cozied up at one of the many cafes or breweries you are going to feel right at home.

While in town you can stop by Cedar Creek, Belle Grove National Historic Park, or Shenandoah Valley Battlefield Foundation. Visiting Middletown during the other seasons is just as fun. In the fall you can enjoy picking apples, peaches, grapes, and various berries. There are also a bunch of wineries to tour. Try booking a tour to take you out for the day, you are going to love the small-town vibes of Middletown.

Visit Crystal City- Arlington, VA

 A bunch of the Northern Virginia tourist attractions are inside Crystal City. Here you can find some of the best nightlife, and cuisines from all over the world, and is the perfect blend between nature and the city. Check out Theodore Roosevelt Island or Gravelly Point Park for your outdoor fix. Take a bike ride around Theodore Island or a hike around Gravelly Point Park.

If you are staying in Washington DC you can easily reach Arlington without a car. The metro and bus routes are very reliable and offer a relaxing break from the traffic. You can also get around Arlington on foot, or bike making it a perfect day or weekend trip from DC. This is where the Pentagon is as well if you are traveling with history buffs.

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts

Up next is the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts. Located in Vienna, Virginia this is one of the most romantic things to do in Northern Virginia. It is about 15 miles west of DC and is the only national park dedicated to the performing arts. The Filene Center can seat up to 7,000 people and is an excellent stage for any type of performance.

There is also an indoor at the Wolf Trap National Park arena known as The Barns. It can seat up to 3,000 people at a time. It does have hiking and biking trails just like all of the other national parks as well. Be sure to check out their social or websites to book yourself a ticket to see a one-of-a-kind show at the Wolf Trap National Park.

Visit Fairfax

You have endless attractions in Northern Virginia and many of them are in Fairfax, Virginia. Here you will find a suburb of DC with skate parks, high-end shopping, and plenty of green spaces to relax. You can find luxury hotels and super cute tiny houses here to rent. Fairfax stays up with all the latest food and fashion trends.

Fairfax County Park is the perfect place to relax with a picnic, or bike around. Be sure to stop for lunch or dinner at the Red Hot & Blue. They are known for their fabulous smoked meats. Including BBQ ribs, pulled pork, and briskets. If you are looking for a fun night out then the Liberty Tavern is a popular place for after-work drinks.

Thank you to all farms and visitors who participated in the Loudoun Spring Farm Tour! We had a WONDERFUL weekend because of you!

Welcome to the Loudoun Farm Tour: October 19 – 20

From charming encounters with llamas, alpacas, and donkeys to indulging in delectable homemade ice cream at a dairy farm, the Loudoun Fall Farm Tour offers a cornucopia of experiences for visitors of all ages. Featuring a diverse array of farms showcasing the finest products that Loudoun has to offer, including honey, mushrooms, traditional vegetables, garlic, and craft beverages, attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Loudoun’s agricultural heritage.

Details of the 2024 Loudoun Fall Farm Tour are coming soon, so be sure to check back for the latest updates!

Farm Tour Map

Learn More About Loudoun Farm Tours

Sign Up To Learn More About Loudoun Farm Tours

Meet rivenwool farms, a 2024 spring farm tour stop.

Meet Double 8 Alpacas, A 2024 Spring Farm Tour Stop

Meet School Hill Garden, A 2024 Spring Farm Tour Stop

Farm Tour FAQ’s

Thank You To The Sponsors of Our Western Loudoun VIP Getaway Packages!

Join us for the Loudoun Farm Tour and enter for your chance to win one of two Western Loudoun VIP Getaway Packages, complete with a B&B stay, wine and beer tastings, dinner, and historic garden tours. How do you win a VIP Package at the Loudoun Farm Tour?  It’s easy!

1. Check-In to Farm Tour: Just look for the check-in QR code at one of your stops and let us know you’re visiting! One guest of the Farm Tour who checks-in will be chosen at random to receive a VIP Getaway.

2. Vote for your favorite experience: We want to hear from you! Help us make Farm Tour even better by voting for your favorite stop. For those who check in during Farm Tour, a poll will be emailed the following week. The poll will also be posted to the Loudoun Farms social media accounts. One person who fills out the quick poll will be chosen at random to receive a Loudoun VIP Giveaway Package.

Scarlet Springs Farm B&B - Waterford, VA

Nestled on a private, 74-acre multi-generational family farm, The Spring House is a getaway unlike any other. Step back in time as you enter the historic home, built in the early 1800’s, now outfitted with all the modern amenities for comfort and fresh, country-chic décor. Enjoy your morning coffee as the sun rises on the spacious deck, overlooking a spring-fed pond. Keep an eye out for the many morning animal visitors including deer, rabbits, hawks, wild turkeys, foxes, groundhogs, and cranes.

(1) One complimentary night stay and a luxury picnic at Scarlet Springs Farm Spring House

Spring House B&B | Scarlet Springs Farm

Goodstone Inn - Middleburg, VA

Escape to Northern Virginia’s countryside and enjoy luxury accommodations on a private 10-acre estate with spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, beautiful resort-like grounds, and 5-spacious guest room suites each with its own private ensuite bath.

Hidden View, voted “Best of Virginia” by   Virginia Living Magazine   readers, strives to provide friendly service, outstanding accommodations, and breathtaking settings to help make each guests’ visit… delightful and memorable.

Whether you’re staying for a couple of nights during the week, a well-deserved weekend, or longer — Hidden View is a perfect place for all kinds of celebrations: from birthdays and anniversaries to intimate weddings. It is also a great place for family and friend stay-cations, and getaways for business meetings and corporate retreats.

(1) One complimentary night stay and breakfast at Goodstone Inn

Goodstone Inn & Restaurant | Luxury Resort

Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery – Waterford, VA

Wheatland Spring is an estate brewery . This means 100% of our farming operations are dedicated to growing ingredients for our beer, focusing on acres of malting barley and other grains bred specifically for brewing. We grow the majority of grains we use to make our beer from these acres on our family owned and operated farm.

(2) tastings

Wheatland Spring

Oatlands Historic House & Gardens – Leesburg, VA

Oatlands, a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is a rich resource for our community, state, and nation. They provide historical, educational and recreational experiences to their many visitors. Oatlands was given to the public by the Eustis family in 1965 and has been open to the public since 1966.

(2) Garden Tours

Garden Tours Tour the garden with an experienced guide as they relate the full history of the 4.5 acres from it’s beginnings in the early 19 th century to it’s transformation into a pleasure garden. Learn about the different areas of the garden and how they evolved over the years as well as the current philosophy of the garden, plantings, trees and structures.

Note: Scheduling subject to docent availability. Please contact [email protected] to book your tour.

Oatlands – Historic House and Gardens

Walsh Family Wine - Purcellville, VA

Farming numerous distinctive sites throughout Northern Virginia, we strive to produce wines reflective of place. Most of our bottlings are vineyard-designate wines, and in time we hope to continually realize the uniqueness of these sites through thoughtful winegrowing, both in the vineyard and cellar. We farm 6 distinct vineyards in Northern Virginia. More information about these sites  can be found here . 

(2) Wine tastings and vineyard tour

Home – Walsh Family Wine

Harvest Gap Brewery – Hillsboro, VA

Harvest Gap Brewery is a Veteran and family owned farm brewery located in the in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Situated on a working beef cattle and grain farm, the brewery has magnificent views of the Loudoun Country countryside with spectacular sunsets over the mountains of the Hillsboro Gap. Owned and operated by Mike and Katherine Virts, the Virts family have lived and farmed in Loudoun County for over 260 years. Joined by brewmaster and manager William Jones, former owner and brewer of Wicked Barn Brewery.

(1) $25 gift card

Harvest Gap Brewery – Farm Brewery, Brewery, Craft Beers

Zephaniah Farm Vineyard - Leesburg, VA

Our family has farmed here since 1949. We planted grapes in 2002 as a way to preserve the family farm. We continue to plant and grow our vineyard.  We now grow 19 blocks of different varieties of grapes on our land.  

Zephaniah Farm Vineyard (zephwine.com)

Which farms are participating?

The 2024 Spring Farm Tour promises to be the best yet! With a full list of returning favorites and some exciting first year additions, every Farm Tour visitor will find something to love while they are out on the farm the weekend of May 18 and 19. Use the interactive map above to learn more about each farm and plan your routes!

American Meadows Aurora Apiary Blooming Hill Lavender Farm Brookfield Dairy Farm Bully Goat Farm Butterfly Hill Farm Store Donkey Meadows Safe Haven Double 8 Alpaca & Llama Ranch Far Bungalow Farm Farrah’s Farm Fireside Farm Fort Bacon Farm Gathering Springs Farm Georges Mill Farm Green Hills Garden and Nursery Hideaway Springs Hill Top Farm Hope Flower Farm and Winery Kathy Ann’s Farm Laz E Hill Farm Long Stone Farm Midsommar Farm Paige’s Pit Stop Farm Store Planetary Farms Rivenwool Animal Rescue School Hill Garden and Tiny Acre Farm Snickers Run Garlic Farm Spring House Farm Sprouting Roots Farm Sweet Piedmont Flower Farm Temple Hall Farm Regional Park The Sassy Ass Three Cap Farms Wegmeyer Farms Wheatland Spring Willow Hawk Farm Zephaniah Winery and Mill Road Farm

Who should go?

This self-guided tour is fun and informative for all ages. Bring your friends and family – we can’t wait to see you! All sites will be open, rain or shine.

Do you prefer to let us do the driving?  Stay tuned for more information on the free Hop On, Hop Off bus tour routes we’re offering for this Farm Tour!

How much does it cost?

The Loudoun Farm Tour is free to participate in and you don’t need tickets! There are fees at some sites for food, drinks and special activities. Check the icons on each location within the map or app for more information.

Where can I find a printed map?

Starting April 25, physical maps can be found at the following locations:

• Ashburn Library
• Bluemont Community Center
• Brambleton Library
• Carver Center
• Cascades Library
• Claude Moore Community Center
• Dulles South Multipurpose Center
• Gum Springs Library
• Heritage Farm Museum
• Loudoun County, Public Affairs & Communications
• Lucketts Community Center
• Middleburg Community Center
• Purcellville Library
• Rust Library
• Sterling Community Center
• Sterling Library
• Visit Loudoun

Can I download a map?

Click here to download a map.

Can I take photos?

Yes, and staff at these public events might take photos of you for promotional use. Share your photos on social media, using the hashtag #LoudounFarmTour.

What does “Loudoun, VA Made • Loudoun, VA Grown” mean?

The logo is used by Loudoun growers and producers that agree to source their products from Loudoun County farms. Look for the logo and support those businesses by taking your piece of Loudoun home. In addition to buying the best-quality products, you also support the future of farming in Loudoun.

Ready to get started sooner? Shop the  Loudoun Made Loudoun Grown Marketplace , our online platform that connects you to the farms you love.

Loudoun Farm Tours are a biannual celebration of farming in Loudoun County, with one each for the planting in spring and the harvest in fall.

During the third weekends of May and October, Loudoun farms are encouraged to open to the public between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., offering parking, tours of operations, and an educational component that’s free and open to the public.

Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown products, CSAs and memberships are typically available for purchase. Each tour offers a slightly different roster of participating farms, with some farms participating every year, while others cycle through.

A Unique Tradition in the Nation’s Capital Region

Begun in 1993 as the Fall Colors Tour, the tour took a more agricultural angle in the years that followed, and was conducted every harvest season including in a virtual and hybrid capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 1996, Loudoun Economic Development and the Virginia Cooperative Extension Office added the Spring Farm Tour to kick off the growing season in the Loudoun Valley.

In the years since, the tour has grown in size and scope, regularly drawing visitors from throughout the D.C. region and beyond.

DID YOU KNOW?

Visiting farms has many benefits for children, including a reduction in allergies and a greater willingness to try new foods when they know where they came from.

Loudoun Farm Tours Embrace Innovation

The Loudoun Farm Tours are designed to showcase innovative and sustainable practices happening every day at farms in the county.

Whether those are new product lines, best practices or something unique to the farm, visitors are given a behind-the-scenes look at farm life.

The tour itself has also become more innovative over the years, with the additions of print brochures, digital and social media promotion, media coverage, and a mobile map that encourages visitors to make more stops and have deeper conversations with farmers.

Look for the logo when you shop!

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15 Spectacular Wineries to Visit in Northern Virginia

May 11, 2021

Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway from Washington, DC or are on a Virginia road trip, visiting a winery in Northern Virginia is a guaranteed fun time. Stop for a wine tasting, buy a bottle to go, or enjoy a picnic while admiring vineyard views as you discover delicious Virginia wines. If you're a wine lover, you'll surely enjoy these spectacular Northern Virginia wineries and vineyards!   

Northern Virginia Wineries & Vineyards

As you drive out of Washington, DC and into northern Virginia, you'll start noticing signs for vineyards and wineries along the highway. And the further you venture into the picturesque countryside, the more signs you'll see. This is because within a two-hour drive of DC, northern Virginia is home to over 100 wineries and vineyards!  

Given the abundance of excellent NoVA wineries, how can you choose which ones to visit? To help get you started, I'm sharing some of my favorite wineries in Northern Virginia that I've visited multiple times over the years. 

With excellent views, delicious wine, and cozy countryside settings, these wineries are the perfect place to relax. Plus, if you're looking for a place to hold an event, such as a wedding, rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, or even a corporate retreat - these wineries and vineyards make perfect venues!

A Few Things to Know about My Favorite Northern Virginia Wineries

From 2012-2017 when I lived in DC, I devoted many weekends to wine tasting and picnicking in vineyards throughout northern Virginia. As a result of over five years of "research", I can highly recommend the wineries and vineyards on this list. 

That being said, everyone has different tastes. So let me tell you a few things that I appreciate in a winery. That way, you'll have an idea whether these wineries might be ones you'd enjoy as well. 

1) Friendly and Welcoming Staff

Nothing is better than feeling like you're welcome and that the staff is happy you're there. I've had wonderful tastings at all of these wineries. Though sometimes you have to be prepared for it to be a bit more rushed than others - like on busy weekends.

2) Picturesque Views

Since you're going out of your way to escape the city, why wouldn't you want a picturesque view to look at while drinking your wine? At least, that's my thought! Whether overlooking a valley or the Blue Ridge Mountains, many wineries in Northern Virginia have gorgeous views. 

Though sometimes, just being in a pastoral setting on a farm looking at some vines and a pond is equally calming. 

3) Dry, Full-bodied Red Wines

Here's the one where our tastes might diverge. Simply put, I love dry wines, especially full-bodied reds. And my favorite wineries all have at least a few on the menu. In fact, many wineries on this list specialize in Old-World style Bordeaux red blends.

As you travel around northern Virginia wineries, you'll notice a fair number of sweet or semi-sweet wines on tasting menus. Although some of the wineries on my list have sweet or fruit wine options, be aware that some of them do not. 

Planning a Trip to Northern Virginia Wine Country

If you're planning a trip with friends or a romantic escape from the city, booking a vacation rental in Northern Virginia's wine country is a great idea!

With over 100 wineries in the region, obviously you could spend a whole weekend tasting wine. But Northern Virginia's quaint towns and historical landmarks, as well as hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures are also fantastic activities to vary things up.

Note about COVID-19 Precautions:  At this time, many wineries have adjusted their tastings or limited their in-person winery offerings to comply with safety regulations. Please check the website before visiting any of these wineries to find out up-to-dates opening hours and safety policies. 

Winery Transportation and Tours

If you're visiting the DC area and would like to visit several wineries, you might consider booking a Northern Virginia Winery tour and transportation.

These winery tours are great for groups on a day trip from Washington, DC. Plus, if you'd like to visit multiple wineries in a day, a tour ensures no one has to miss out on the wine tastings in order to be the designated driver. 

List of Northern Virginia Wineries

As you can see from the map below, these wonderful wineries are scattered throughout northern Virginia. I'll begin my list with wineries closest to DC and head west along Interstate 66. Then, I'll finish up with the wineries to the north near Purcellville and Leesburg.

All driving times are calculated from downtown DC (1400 K St., NW - my former office) and are approximate. Traffic always adds extra minutes!

Paradise Springs Winery

Location: Clifton, VA Distance from DC: 28 miles Travel Time from DC: ~45 min Paradise Springs Winery website

Children Allowed?  Yes, under supervision. Certain areas are adult-only. Dog-friendly?  Yes, dogs on leash allowed on lawn only.

Less than an hour's drive from Washington, DC, Paradise Springs Winery is a fun, family-friendly winery that's a favorite among Washingtonians. Nestled on 36-acres in Clifton, VA, this property is a green oasis which is perfect for a weekend wine outing. 

Enjoy a tasting in the 3000-sq ft tasting room then head out to the back patio to relax with a bottle of wine and some friends. On Saturdays, live music is a welcome addition to the winery experience. Check the website to find out who's playing on the day you'd like to visit (and when the live music starts up again). 

Fun fact: Paradise Springs Winery has the distinction of being the first bicoastal winery. If you're on the west coast, be sure to visit the tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara, California.

Address:  13219 Yates Ford Road, Clifton, VA 20124

The Winery at Bull Run

Location:  Centreville, VA Distance from DC:    28 miles Travel Time from DC: ~45 min The Winery at Bull Run website

Children Allowed? Yes, under supervision. Certain areas are adult-only. Dog-friendly?  No.

Located in Fairfax County, The Winery at Bull Run claims it's "the closest winery to DC" though it seems like it might be a tie to me. Regardless, its convenient location makes it a great day trip into Virginia wine country! Not only does this winery make delicious Virginia wine, but they've preserved pieces of the property's former structures and these ruins give it a cool historic vibe.

Wine enthusiasts with an affinity for American history will appreciate the winery's location right on the edge of the 5,000-acre Manassas National Battlefield Park where the first battle of the U.S. Civil War (1861) was fought. 

On the property, you'll find ruins of Hillwood Mansion which was used at some point during either the first or second Battle of Bull Run as a field hospital. These remnants add a unique vibe to this Virginia winery.

Hillwood Mansion ruins

Address: 15950 Lee Highway, Centreville, VA 20120

The Winery at La Grange

Location:  Haymarket, VA Distance from DC:    41 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr The Winery at La Grange website

Children Allowed? Yes. Dog-friendly?  Yes, outside only.

A premier winery in Prince William County, Virginia, The Winery at La Grange sits on 20 acres of land which was once the historic La Grange farm.

One of its unique features is the historic 3-story red brick manor house (circa 1790) which has been restored and now serves as the tasting room. If you're lucky, you might meet the resident ghosts - Benoni Harrison, a Civil War soldier, and the ghost of a little girl. Can't say I've ever met one of its ghosts, but I did enjoy many afternoons picnicking on the lawn after a wine tasting in the manor. 

Address: 4970 Antioch Road, Haymarket, VA 20169

Boxwood Estate Winery

Location:  Middleburg, VA Distance from DC:    ~50   miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 20 min Boxwood Estate Winery website  

Children Allowed?  No, guests 21+ only. Dog-friendly?  No.

Boxwood Estate Winery is a sleek yet cozy space to enjoy delicious premium wines crafted in the Bordeaux tradition on a historic landmark farm. And in fact, several Bordeaux varietals are grown on the property. 

Right in the heart of Virginia's horse and hunt country, Boxwood Estate Winery is surrounded by world-famous horse farms and close to historic downtown Middleburg. Known for its boutique shops and fine dining, Middleburg is a great town in which to end a day of wine tasting or a perfect spot for a girls' weekend getaway.

Address: 2042 Burrland Lane, Middleburg, VA 20117

Pearmund Cellars

Location:  Broad Run, VA Distance from DC:    44 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr Pearmund Cellars website  

Children Allowed? No, guests must be 21+. Dog-friendly?    Yes.

Consistently voted one of Virginia's best wineries, Pearmund Cellars is a Virginia winery gem you don't want to miss! On the property's Meriwether Vineyard, they're growing the oldest Chardonnay in Virginia. Because of a commitment to use Virginia grapes and strong partnerships with other Virginia vineyards, you can be sure you're tasting the best Virginia has to offer.

Plus, they have a wide variety of wines from which to choose so you're sure to find something you like. 

Head out to Pearmund Cellars for a wine tasting and a picnic on the beautiful grassy lawn. If it's a chilly day, warm up next to one of the outdoor fire pits while sipping a big, bold red. 

Address: 6190 Georgetown Rd, Broad Run, VA 20137

Granite Heights Winery

Location: Warrenton, VA Distance from DC:    55 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 30 min Granite Heights Winery website  

Children Allowed? Yes. Dog-friendly?    Yes, outside only.

A boutique winery owned and run by a husband and wife team, Granite Heights Winery specializes in small batch, high quality wines. Enjoy a leisurely tasting in the charming 19th-century farmhouse to learn more about the wines. Then, purchase a bottle and head outside to relax by the pond and soak in the Virginia countryside.

Address: 8141 Opal Road, Warrenton, VA 20186

Narmada Winery

Location:  Amissville, VA Distance from DC:    61 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 30 min Narmada Winery website  

Children Allowed? Yes, under supervision. Dog-friendly?  Yes, outside only.

If you're an avid traveler like I am, then you'll be pleasantly surprised when you arrive at Narmada Winery. Owners Pandit and Sudha Patil are originally from Mumbai, India and they've brought the vibrancy of their home culture into the Virginia winery experience.

As staff pours you a tasting, you'll hear more about the family as well as get recommendations for interesting food pairings. One that stands out is 2015 Yash-Vir, a classic Bordeaux blend, which pairs well with Rasika’s Green Masala Chicken.

After the tasting, stay and enjoy the beautiful grassy lawn, pond. If you love Indian food like I do, be sure to order some tasty samosas and butter chicken from the kitchen!

Address: 43 Narmada Lane, Amissville, VA 20106

Rappahannock Cellars

Location:  Huntly, VA Distance from DC:    66 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 20 min Rappahannock Cellars website  

Children Allowed? Yes, certain areas are 21+ only. Dog-friendly?    Yes, outdoors only.

Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rappahannock Cellars is a family-run winery and vineyard that produces delicious European-style wines. They also make one of the best port-style wines I've tasted in Virginia!

From its outside patios and picnic areas, you'll have beautiful views of the vineyards and the rolling hills. Many of its inside spaces are for wine club members only. So if you're not a member, it's best to visit Rappahannock Cellars on a nice day. That way, you can comfortably sit outside or on the rooftop patio to enjoy a bottle of wine and a picnic after your tasting.

Address: 14437 Hume Road, Huntly, VA, 22640

Chateau O'Brien at Northpoint

Location:  Markham, VA Distance from DC:    59 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 30 min Chateau O'Brien website  

Children Allowed? No, guests must be 21+. Dog-friendly?  No.

Chateau O'Brien at Northpoint is a family-owned and operated winery nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains with beautiful views from its outdoor covered patio. With its intimate tasting rooms and knowledgeable staff, you're sure to have an educational and enjoyable tasting experience.

During your visit, be sure to try the world-renowned Tannat Limited Reserve and also their apple dessert wine - made with delicious Virginia apples! 

Not a great photo of the bottle, but hard to ignore the view behind it!

Address: 3238 Railstop Road, Markham, VA 22643

Fox Meadow Winery

Location:  Linden, VA Distance from DC:    66 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 20 min Fox Meadow Winery website  

Children Allowed? Yes. Dog-friendly?  Yes, on leash & outside only.

Perched on Blue Mountain amidst the rolling green hills, Fox Meadow Winery has been making delicious wine for every palate for 15 years. Whether you prefer the Old World style dry wines or light and refreshing fruity wines, they have a wine you're going to love! 

Plus, Fox Meadow is one of those wineries with a view that makes you want to visit just to sit and sip a glass of wine while basking in the peaceful countryside surroundings. 

Address: 3310 Freezeland Road, Linden, VA 22642

Bluemont Vineyard

Location:  Bluemont, VA Distance from DC:    59 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 15 min Bluemont Vineyard website  

Children Allowed? Yes. Dog-friendly?  Yes.

From its spot atop a ridge in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Bluemont Vineyard offers one of the best views in Northern Virginia Wine Country. And this farm winery grows not only grape vines, but also other fruits such as cherries and blackberries. Between the orchards, vines, and the breathtaking views, it's gorgeous place to try some of the tasty vintages. 

In addition to normal wine tastings, Bluemont Vineyard offers several elevated experiences, such as a Farm-to-Table food-wine pairing. Also, vineyard tasting tours and sangria-making lessons with fresh fruit picked from the orchards. On weekends, you can enjoy live music in the evenings at the Harvest Room Kitchen with small plates and pours.

Address: 18755 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont, VA 20135

8 Chains North Winery

Location: Waterford, VA Distance from DC:    54 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 15 min 8 Chains North Winery website  

Children Allowed? Yes, under close supervision. Dog-friendly? Yes, plus there is fenced "dog park" in which dogs can run off-leash.  

8 Chains North Winery is a dog-friendly winery in Loudon County specializing in Old World style wines poured by welcoming and knowledgeable staff. The outside patio with beautiful vineyard views is a lovely spot to savor the afternoon with a glass of wine. Or, in the winter, cozy up to the roaring fire with a hearty red.

Bring along your pups as there's an off-leash fenced off dog park where they can run and frolic to enjoy the day as well! 

Address: 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford, VA 20197

Hillsborough Winery, Brewery, & Vineyard

Location:  Hillsboro, VA Distance from DC:    52 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 15 min Hillsborough Winery website  

Overlooking the foothills of the Shenandoah, Hillsborough Winery, Brewery, and Vineyard provides a scenic tasting for both wine and beer lovers. The Baki family bought these historic grounds back in 2001, started planting vines, and began the dream of creating a winery and vineyard.

In 2018, they added a brewery into the mix as well. With one of their sons as the winemaker and the other as the brewmaster - it's a family affair at Hillsborough! 

From the historic (circa 1840s) stone barn tasting and tap room, you'll have awesome views as you taste these delicious wines and craft brews. After your tasting, sit outside on the patio or inside by the window with a bottle of wine to enjoy those spectacular views. 

Address: 36716 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132

Breaux Vineyards

Location:  Purcellville, VA Distance from DC:    55 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 20 min Breaux Vineyards website  

Children Allowed? Yes, certain areas are 21+. Dog-friendly?    Yes, on leash & outdoors only. The Orleans Patio is a no dogs zone.

A family-owned and operated winery in Loudon County, Breaux Vineyards sits on an impressive 404-acre property and has an extensive wine list. Enjoy beautiful vistas of the vineyards and the Blue Ridge Mountains with your wine tasting. Only a short distance from Harper's Ferry in West Virginia, Breaux Vineyards is an excellent addition to a weekend getaway from DC!

Due to its popularity, reservations are required for certain areas of the winery on weekends. However, outdoor seating is first-come, first-serve so it's perfect for a picnic on nice day. 

Address: 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Purcellville, VA 20132

Tarara Winery

Location:  Leesburg, VA Distance from DC:    52 miles Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 15 min Tarara Winery website  

One of the oldest wineries in Loudon County, Tarara Winery produces world class wines using select Virginia grapes. Its 475-acre farm, which sits along the Potomac River in the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains, is a beautiful spot to visit. Particularly in autumn when it's surrounded by vibrant fall colors!

During Saturday evenings in the summer, head to Tarara's Shadow Lake to enjoy the Summer Concert Series . This beautiful live music venue has been rocking with bands from around the country since 1999 and is a great place to kick back on a balmy summer evening.   

Address: 13648 Tarara Lane, Leesburg, VA 20176

Final Thoughts

Hopefully you now have a great list of wineries to visit on your next trip to northern Virginia!

Since the wine scene has exploded in Virginia, it seems like more tasting rooms and wineries are opening every year. I recommend keeping up to date with the latest news and find more wineries to visit on the Virginia Wine website .    

Other Articles You Might Enjoy

If you're planning a trip to northern Virginia or the DC area, you might also find these articles helpful:

• 21 Amazing Airbnb & Vacation Rentals in Northern Virginia’s Wine Country
• 15 Wonderful Weekend Road Trips from DC
• 10 Things You Must Know Before You Visit Washington, DC

What is your favorite winery in northern Virginia? Share it in the comments below!

Happy travels!

Like this article? Pin it!

Visiting a vineyard is such an experience! I especially love the meadows and the greenery around the yard. It’s serene to tranquilize all your senses! Not to mention the wine tasting experience is also quite refreshing. Loved the post. The beautiful win bottles clicked with a lush green backdrop are adorable! Thoughtful clicks!

Thank you so much! Wine tasting in lush green hills is an experience that I miss. It’s always such fun and I’m glad you enjoyed the post.

Sounds like a lovely place to visit some wineries. This is something that would very much interest. Lovely that the area has great outdoor activities also and hiking sounds like a visit is in order 🤔

Northern Virginia is a great area and I’m glad to have convinced you it’s worth a visit!

Fantastic topic and fantastic guide Becky! Who doesnt love wineries? Did you visited them all? you probably got a good hangover hahaha Thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much! Yes, I visited all of these wineries and most of the others in Northern Virginia that were open when I lived there. When I researched for this article, I saw many more have opened up since I left though so I’ll have to go back and try those too!

I may have to alter our driving plans just to fit in a winery or two on our road trip this summer. My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Portugal going around to all the wineries and port houses we could manage so we really enjoy traveling for wine. But I do think I will add in the Fox Meadow Winery. Add they allow kids, yeah.

Wine tasting in Portugal is one of my dreams, Leanne! Sounds like adding a visit to a northern Virginia winery on your road trip would be the perfect thing for you and your husband. And hopefully the kids won’t mind too much!

Love this! I also love your criteria for a good winery. I used to live in DC but missed so many of these locations. I’ll be saving this for a return trip.

Thanks, Jen! I’m glad you liked the criteria part. I hope you’ll get back to the DC area to try some of these wineries in NoVA. It’s crazy how many there are now. I already see new ones that I haven’t visited!

I learn about so many new wine regions through blogging. Northern Virginia needs to go on the list as well!

It’s a growing industry in Virginia so I imagine there will be even more wineries to visit soon! Plus, going out for a few tastings is so convenient to add on to a trip to Washington, DC.

I had no idea Northern Virginia had wineries, and so many of them! I’d love to visit the one at Bull Run, basically for the historical connection. Must add such a unique element to the visit, but also, I wonder… in the terroir of the wine too!

It’s amazing how many wineries have opened in northern Virginia – and the entire state – in the past few decades. I read that in the 1990s, Virginia had ~50 wineries and now there are over 300. Quite a booming industry!

Enjoyed reading this post. Just goes to show how little I know about the U.S., but I had no idea they do wine in this area. All my friends think I’m a bit of a twat for not having much of a taste for New World wines, and I can only agree with them. However I’d still love to try a few of these wines and experience the atmosphere at places like The Winery at Bull Run. Blue Ridge Mountains sound like they might be fun for hiking.

Thanks, Stefan! Maybe you just haven’t tried enough New World wines yet? I find it’s best to try as many as possible, though not on the same day! 😉 It’s funny how different people’s tastes are and even winery to winery in northern Virginia, the selection is so different. I’d be curious to hear what you think. And yes, combining wine tasting with hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains is the perfect weekend trip!

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Plan a Spectacular Winery Tour in Northern Virginia

Move over, California! Virginia has rapidly grown in wine production for decades. The Northern Virginian area itself has dozens of wineries to explore. Whether you want a romantic picnic overlooking the mountains or a fun excursion for your kids, Northern Virginia has plenty of great winery options just one hour outside of Washington, D.C.  Here’s a guide to great wines and wineries in Northern Virginia.

A Quick Look at Virginia’s Wine History

“ Good wine is a necessity of life for me. ”

Hoping to create an American wine industry, in 1619, the Virginia House of Burgesses passed Acte 12 requiring land-owning colonists to plant at least 10 grape vines on their property. Diseases, however, doomed this early initiative and Virginia’s flourishing tobacco industry overshadowed interest in creating Virginia wine.

Still, Virginians such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson continued to try to cultivate wine on their land and advocate for American wine-making. In 1759, Charles Carter started growing grapes on his property and by 1762, his wines earned the first international acclaim for an American wine. 

Virginia wine continued to grow in prominence, culminating in a Virginia Norton wine being named “best red wine of all nations” at the 1873 Vienna World’s Fair. All that progress was halted with Prohibition in the 1920s. It wasn’t until the past few decades when Virginia experienced a new renaissance in wineries. In 1995, Virginia had 46 wineries. Today, Virginia has over 300.

Virginia Red Wines

Norton is America’s oldest wine grape, first cultivated in Richmond in the 1820s. It is the oldest native Northern American varietal. Norton wines are deep red, age well, and are known for their rich, fruity aromas and flavors.

Cabernet Franc provides a spicy, peppery wine, which can showcase fruity, floral, and tobacco notes.  

Petit Verdot is Virginian vineyards’ response to those who want bigger, bolder styles of reds. Typically used in Bordeaux blends, this purplish varietal’s flavors and tannins play nicely with cabernets and merlots. Its perfume can be characterized from fruity and spicy to herbal.

Virginia White Wines

The most planted grape in Virginia is Chardonnay, but as of 2011, Viognier (VEE-own-yay) is Virginia’s signature grape. Though grown in very few places, defense contractor Dennis Horton planted some Viognier in Madison County, and found that this grape thrives in Virginia’s long, hot summers. In 1993, Horton’s Viognier won first prize in a California wine competition and now 76 of Virginia’s vineyards plant the varietal. A medium- to full-bodied wine with floral, tropical, or fruity notes. Though it can be produced in a sweet or sparkling style, Viognier is typically dry. British wine guru Oz Clarke says Viognier “oozes sex and sensuality.”

Despite Viognier being the official Virginia grape, Petit Manseng is becoming Virginia’s most popular white varietal. A Virginia Tech professor brought Petit Manseng from its traditional home Southwest France to Virginia in 1987. Known for their diminutive stature, Petit Manseng grapes add floral, spicy, and tropical notes to wines in which they are incorporated. Petit Manseng grapes are high in sugar, but their natural high acidity provides balance as the introduction of Petit Manseng in blends adds intrigue and body.

Other Virginia Wines

Other wines grown in Virginia include Cabernet Sauvignon and Chambourcin (red), Vidal Blanc, Seyval Blanc, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc (whites), rose, sparkling wine, fruit wines, and meads.

Tips for Visiting a Northern Virginia Winery

Plan transportation.

A designated driver is essential for small parties. For larger parties, a car or limo service would be ideal. None of these vineyards are metro-accessible. Further it can be hard to get signal to call an Uber and the distant nature of these wineries means an affordable Uber to may also be distant. It’s possible to winery hop, because some of the wineries aren’t too far away from one another, but a car would facilitate the process.  Some may be close enough to bike between but bike lanes are hardly guaranteed. A car is your best bet.  

Do Your Research

Since 2020, I have learned to call ahead to any place I plan on going to ensure it will be open and operating as I expect. Covid means we can’t depend on websites or Google being updated. Maybe wine tastings are closed now but the winery is thinking of opening up soon. It would be a shame to miss out on visiting a winery because it doesn’t yet offer what you want, but it could soon.

Make Reservations

Most of these vineyards require reservations during Covid and perhaps afterwards. It’s also helpful for the customers to ensure that the vineyard won’t be so crowded that you can’t properly socially distance.

Dress Appropriately

In the winter, be sure to bring your coat. But even in the summer, wine tasting rooms can be overly air-conditioned.

Don’t Make an Overambitious Itinerary

Each of these wineries is fun enough to spend a beautiful day at by itself. You’ll be plenty happy going to one winery and whiling the day away, promise.

Plan for Food and Water

Wine is not a replacement for water! Remember to stay hydrated, especially if you’re planning to spend the day outside somewhere. People often forget to drink enough water.

Most wineries have on-site food or food trucks. Of course, you don’t need to eat at every winery on your stop – so try to schedule your noontime or dinner-time wineries as the ones with the most delicious food. Still, you shouldn’t assume that there will be food for every type of diet or allergy. Many of these wineries allow you to bring outside food in and set up your own picnic. Further, remember to ensure that any children or pets you plan to take with you will be well-fed and hydrated. And it never hurts to have a few extra snacks in your car.

Plan a Northern Virginia Winery Tour

Now of course you want to know which wineries you should visit and why! I’ve divided this list into itineraries and one-offs. This isn’t Napa Valley – this is Northern Virginia! The geographical area is huge and it can mean that some wineries are an hour’s drive from another. Personally I

Northern Virginia Vineyard Itineraries

Middleburg winery tour, chrysalis vineyard middleburg.

After selling her computer-software company in 1995, winemaker Jennifer McCloud  attended a wine conference and three years later, started a vineyard herself. The Norton grape is the jewel of Chrysalis – most disease-and mold-resistant grape – which means it’s sustainable. The grape is very clean and pure without the skunky (“foxiness”) of European grapes. Named after Daniel Norton of Richmond, VA, Norton is the quintessential homegrown Virginia grape.

It was Alan Kinne’s discussions of what Virginia was doing with wine varieties including Viognier that inspired McCloud to start a vineyard in the first place. Try the Chrysalis Viognier.

Greenhill Winery Middleburg

Greenhill Winery is all about transparency. The winery grants you a 3-D tour and amazing videos on their website before visiting. No surprises here! Try Greenhill’s Blanc de Blanc made a la Methode Champenoise – the intricate traditional method for making Champagne. The place is pet friendly but no children.

50 West Vineyards Middleburg

50 West is rich with history, being located in an old horse farm on Civil War battle area. The tasting room is a converted horse stable that offers stunning views of the Bull Run Mountain range. 50 West grows three grape varietals – Cabernet Sauvignon, Albariño, and Sauvignon Blanc. 50 West is a mix of old and new where it uses old world winemaking techniques in a solar powered wine facility at their sister winery, Sunset Hills.

Purcellville Wine Itinerary

Sunset hills winery purcellville.

While the sun is up, Sunset Hills makes wine – with 245 solar panels powering 75% of the winery’s needs. When the sun goes down, enjoy the huge variety of wines offered. In addition to the typical Virginia varietals, you can also try Traminette, VidalBlanc, Chambourcin, Tannat, and Sangiovese. Pet- and kid-friendly. In addition to green energy, the vineyards’ commitment to the environment includes raising bluebirds, tree swallows, and Monarch butterflies. Come in the spring and feel like a modern-day Cinderella.

Located less than 10 miles west of Leesburg, 8 Chains North provides a beautiful tasting, room, vineyard views and private event space. This is one of the few wineries in the area where the owner, the grower, and the winemaker are all one person.

Breaux Vineyards Purcellville

With 104 of its 404-acres covered in grapes, Breax is the largest winery in Loudoun County in terms of production and area. Come visit the breathtaking cherry trees and see the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Try any vintage of Nebbiolo (a famous grape in Virginia) or see how the Italian Piemonte grape variety fares in Virginia.

Wine guru Oz Clarke named Breaux’s Viognier 2012 as one of the 250 best wines in the world – one of only three wines from the U.S. to win this honor.

One and Out Wineries

These wineries are a bit more isolated from its vineyard friends. Of course, sometimes one winery is all you need. Each of these wineries is certainly interesting enough to make it a trip by themselves and since they’re all still in Northern Virginia, and actually are some of the closest wineries to Washington, D.C., it’s not a huge drive to get to any of them.

Bull Run Winery Centreville

Bull Run Winery is the closest Northern Virginia winery to Washington, D.C. Located on 225 acres of land in the heart of a Manassas Battlefield, Bull Run Winery has a huge commitment to telling the history of Fairfax County. The winery is also committed to making and showcasing wines with 100% Virginia grapes.

In the winter, enjoy the winery’s heated tents and patios and tour the indoor production barn. Outside there are expansive picnic lawns, a horse farm, and firepits with s’mores kits. There is live music every weekend night. Enjoy delicious food courtesy of a variety of food trucks. Outdoor Civil War historical walking tours are held Friday-Sunday.

Paradise Springs Winery Clifton

Less than an hour outside of Washington, D.C., Paradise Springs is one of the closest wineries to the city. Named after mineral springs of Clifton. Come visit an eighteenth century log cabin which was renovated by a student of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Stone Tower Winery Leesburg

The 306-acre property at Stone Tower Winery provides majestic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and their own Viognier and Chardonnay vineyards from its two-story deck.

Potomac Point Winery Stafford

A unique way this winery is keeping winter visitors warm and safe is personal wine tents that can fit 4-8 guests. The tents are heated, offer food and beverage service, and overlook the vineyard. The 2017 Petit Verdot won a gold medal at the 2020 Virginia Governor’s cup. Also try the Petit Manseng, Viognier, and Norton wines here.

Or Visit the Virginia Wine Expo

If you want even more wines to try, Northern Virginia has a buffet of wines. In October, try over 200 wines and dozens of ciders at the Virginia Wine Expo in Ashburn. Admission includes access to the VA Oyster pavilion. Over 9,000 oysters were shucked at the last event, ensuring that people really like having a good time.

With COVID, it's more important than ever to support our local homegrown businesses, and that includes Northern Virginia wineries. The Virginia winery business is just starting to blossom and it’s a great socially-distanced activity, even in the winter. And let’s be honest, drinking wine and being in nature are great pandemic activities. So let’s raise a glass to our favorite Northern Virginia wineries!

Indulgent and Guilt-Free Keto Bakeries in Northern Virginia

Beautiful Hunt Country Scenic Drive in Northern Virginia

Updated on August 22, 2024 by Julie McCool

Take a Hunt Country scenic drive in Northern Virginia to explore beautiful farms, quaint towns, vineyards, orchards, parks, and winding roads. Our route through southern Loudoun and northern Fauquier Counties makes a perfect day trip and it begins just an hour from busy Washington DC.

We are always looking for fun places to drive, and this scenic route features some of the prettiest countryside in Northern VA. From your car, you'll see rolling hillsides dotted with farms and vineyards, and country roads lined with stoned walls. When you're ready for a break, we highlight where to stop for a hike, a meal, a drink, local shopping, and outdoor fun.

Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. We will make a small commission from these links if you order something, at no additional cost to you.

Hunt Country Scenic Drive Route and Tips

Read the route overview and tips below for a big picture look at this Hunt Country scenic drive. Below the tips, you'll find details and photos about the sites and stops to look for on your drive.

Route Overview: Scenic Drive Through Loudoun and Fauquier County

A scenic loop drive is extra fun when it includes beautiful small towns and open country roads. Our route includes the lovely towns of Aldie, Middleburg, Marshall, and The Plains. Plus, you can add activity to your day with a hike at Sky Meadows State Park.

Use this map of our Hunt Country scenic drive route  to plan your trip. The route is approximately 60 miles long. Allow 2 hours for the drive plus extra time for stops and activities.

Our drive begins at Gilbert's Corner, at the rotary where Routes 50 and Route 15 meet, and follows a loop:

• West on Route 50 from Aldie to Paris, Virginia
• South to the town of Markham and two of our favorite apple orchards
• East on pretty roads that parallel Route 66
• North on either of two return routes—Route 15 or the unpaved, wooded Route 629.

Hunt Country Scenic Drive Tips

• Avoid this drive during rush hour. Route 50 is a heavy commuter route and is congested on weekday mornings and evenings.
• Our drive does not follow the most direct route between destinations. Instead, we highlight a trip that includes nice scenery and interesting stops. Set your map to “avoid highways” so it doesn't try to redirect you.
• All of the roads on our main scenic drive route are paved, but we suggest one alternate unpaved road.
• Take your time and obey speed limits. Be especially cautious when you pass through town centers in Middleburg, The Plains, and Marshall.

Scenic Drive Through Horse Country in Loudoun County: Aldie to Paris VA

The first section of our drive features horse farms and wineries, stately homes, and pretty towns. On warm weather weekends, you can visit the Gilbert's Corner Farmers Market and pick up delicious lobster rolls , barbecue, ice cream , and other treats. From the rotary at Gilbert's Corner, drive west on Route 50, the Little River Turnpike (formerly John Mosby Highway).

Aldie Virginia

In just a mile you'll enter the little Village of Aldie. On your left is the 200-year-old Aldie Mill . The grist mill was built in the early 1800s and used water from Little River to grind grain.

Today, the mill is maintained by NOVA Parks who note “Aldie Mill survives today as one of the best-preserved historic mills in the Commonwealth and Virginia’s only known mill powered by twin overshot wheels.” Stop to visit the grounds and learn about the mill, which is sometimes open for tours.

Middleburg Virginia

As you enter Middleburg, the vibe shifts to horses, vineyards, and upscale shops. You'll pass several wineries worth a stop before entering the downtown area. Middleburg's tagline is “The Nation's Horse and Hunt Capital” and a walk around town will show you why. Jockey statues, horse-inspired names like the Cuppa Giddyup, and historic buildings line the streets.

Visit the National Sporting Library & Sporting Museum to learn more about the town's equestrian history. The Red Fox Inn and Tavern, built in 1728, still welcomes guests for a meal, a cocktail, or an overnight stay. Across the street, King Street Oyster Bar is a nice option for tasty crab cakes.

A block away is Salamander Resort and Spa , one of the most highly-rated places to stay in Northern Virginia. The resort offers elegant accommodations and fun activities like horseback riding and is an ideal base for a weekend getaway from DC .

Country Roads and Quaint Towns in Northern Fauquier County

When you finish dining, shopping, and exploring downtown Middleburg, continue to drive west on Route 50, entering Fauquier County. The rest of our loop drive visits the towns, wineries, parks, and country roads of Northern Fauquier County,

Upperville Virginia

Soon you'll pass through the small town of Upperville. If you're ready for a meal or a pint, stop at Hunter's Tavern, one of our favorite pubs in Northern VA . They have cozy indoor dining and a spacious outdoor patio .

There are several pretty stone buildings in Upperville, including a tiny stone library and the imposing Trinity Episcopal Church. In May , the church holds a weekend-long Stable Tour to connect visitors with local farms and to raise funds for community programs.

Enjoy a Hike at Sky Meadows State Park in Paris

Turn left and drive south on Route 17 in the town of Paris. Here you can enjoy scenic views of Piedmont farmland rising into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. On your right is Sky Meadows State Park , an excellent stop for hiking, picnicking, history, and seasonal pumpkin patch fun .

If time is short, visit the preserved buildings of the historic farm and take a short but steep hike up to the Piedmont Overlook for a stunning eastward view. You can enjoy more scenic views and woodland trails on a 4-mile loop hike in the park. There are also equestrian trails and a small pond with picnic tables and fishing piers.

South to Markham and Pick-Your-Own Orchards

Past Sky Meadow State Park you have two route options. You can continue straight on Route 17, or you can turn right onto Route 688, Leeds Manor Road. We prefer narrow, winding country roads so we choose 688. Happily, there are two nice wineries here—Arterra and Naked Mountain Winery—if you're ready for a break.

You will also find two wineries on Route 17 if you choose that route. You'll have to backtrack west a bit to reach the orchards in Markham.

Whichever road you take, our next destination is Hartland Orchard and Green Truck Farms. The orchard is an excellent stop in the fall when you can enjoy apple picking , a pumpkin patch, and a corn maze. Visit Hartland even if you don't want to pick, to take in the gorgeous views from the orchard hills.

Nearby Stribling Orchard is another fun pick-your-own apple orchard .

Dine and Drink Local in Marshall and The Plains

From Markham, our scenic route turns east, following small roads that parallel Route 66. You could certainly make the trip faster on the highway, but then you would miss a lovely stop.

Barrel Oak Winery and Farm Taphouse offers Virginia wine with a view and tasty craft beer from a hilltop barn. This brewery has a pretty indoor fireplace and a lot of outdoor space to spread out. They are very dog and child friendly.

Further on, bear left onto Route 55 to downtown Marshall. The small downtown boasts a few excellent dining spots and shops. Search for treasures at Marshall Curated, which sells antiques and home goods.

Nearby, Red Truck Rural Bakery features farm-fresh sandwiches and pies. Next door, The Whole Ox makes excellent burgers and other deli sandwiches. For an upscale farm-to-table meal in a refined setting, head across the street to Field and Main . Sadly, Johnny Monarch's “busteraunt” closed and is no longer there.

Once you leave downtown, heading east on Route 55, watch for the Number 18 School House on your left. The one-room schoolhouse served white children from 1887 to 1910, then served African American students until it closed in 1964.

If you want to walk off some of that delicious dining, stop at Northern Fauquier Community Park , which has a lovely network of paved paths. The park is also an ideal place to picnic if you picked up takeout in town.

Continue east on Route 55 to The Plains, another pretty small town with excellent restaurants. Bistro at the Porch creates modern, locally sourced dishes in a historic railroad house with indoor and outdoor seating. (Robert Duvall, who has a house in The Plains , was here on one of our visits.)

Across the street, The Rail Stop Restaurant offers gourmet dishes created by Chef/Owner Tom Kee. Down the street, Girasolle serves upscale regional Italian cuisine in a relaxed country setting.

Side Trip to Culpeper Virginia

Want to extend your drive through the Virginia countryside? The beautiful town of Culpeper is just 35 miles south of Marshall and it makes a great side trip or overnight stop.

Culpeper's historic downtown is packed with great places to eat, drink, shop, and relax and there are beautiful wineries and breweries nearby. Spend the night and you'll have a great base for exploring more of Fauquier and Culpeper Counties.

Country Roads and Views Complete the Hunt Country Scenic Drive

Continue east from The Plains on Hopewell Road, Route 601. The stone walls are beautiful along this stretch of road.

On your right, you pass Kinloch Farm , which raises heritage grassfed cattle and raw honey. Their farm store on Old Tavern Road is open Thursday through Sunday.

Hopewell Road is especially scenic in Autumn when colorful fall foliage lines the road. If wineries are on your to-do list, take a short side-trip down Antioch Road, a Virginia Byway, to The Winery at La Grange.

Back on Route 601 you pass an old market then bear left onto Waterfall Road, another scenic area. Our scenic loop ends at Route 15, the James Monroe Highway. Turn north here for your return trip to Gilbert's Corner.

If you are comfortable with an unpaved road, we have a fun option. Instead of continuing to 15, turn north on Route 629, Bull Run Mountain Road. This dirt and gravel road travels through forests and passes a wooded Virginia Outdoors preserve. It's a very pretty drive that ends back on Route 50 in Aldie.

Extend Your Hunt Country Scenic Drive

Our Hunt County scenic drive through southern Loudoun and northern Fauquier Counties is complete. But you can easily extend your day in Northern Virginia with stops to the north or south.

More Scenic Places in Loudoun County

Another of our favorite Northern Virginia scenic drives begins in the town of Aldie. A Scenic Drive on the Snickersville Turnpike explores historic sites, more quaint towns, and plenty of local restaurants, breweries, and wineries in Loudoun County.

North on Route 15, historic Leesburg has a walkable downtown packed with antiques, restaurants, and more local shops. Explore the region on a Leesburg Getaway in Northern Virginia Wine Country , or make a day trip to enjoy some of these 10 Tasty Leesburg Restaurants .

Leesburg is also the starting point for a fun Leesburg Scenic Drive Along the Virginia Maryland Border . This drive includes a ferry ride across the Potomac River, nice places to hike or bike by the river, and a popular local ice cream stop.

Craft beer lovers will have to plan multiple trips to sample the tasty breweries on Virginia’s LoCo Ale Trail .

Nearby Places to Visit in Prince William County

Drive south on Route 15 for more outdoor fun in Prince William County.

Take a hike in Conway Robinson State Forest through old growth hardwood and newer pine forests. This is an easy, family-friendly trail and is also on our list of 15 Northern Virginia Bike Trails for Paved / Mountain Biking Near DC .

Explore nearby Manassas National Battlefield on a drive or hike through an important Civil War battlefield. Plan your visit with our guide Manassas National Battlefield Loop Hike and The Winery at Bull Run .

You'll find more hiking and history at the Bull Run Mountains Conservancy .

You can explore all of these stops plus another walkable downtown on a day trip or overnight visit to Historic Manassas .

Explore More of Northern Virginia

Find more fun things to do and places to go in Northern Virginia in our guides:

• Beautiful Northern Virginia Scenic Drives
• Must See Northern Virginia Hidden Gems Rich in Nature and History
• 16 Fantastic Virginia Day Trips Near Washington DC
• Fantastic Ways to Celebrate Fall in Northern Virginia

Follow Fun in Fairfax VA on  Facebook |  Pinterest |  Instagram | Threads

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(703) 347-6900 (240) 589-9800

DC, MD, & Northern VA

DC Limo & Car Service 

Northern Virginia Wine Tours from DC

We provide limo service for wine tours to over 300 wineries in Northern Virginia, Maryland and the Washington DC area! Experience professional service and luxury transportation from DC to the vineyards and back.

Choose your itinerary (suggestions below) and book the tours at each winery, then schedule the tour service with Presidential Limousine. Virginia Wine Tours get booked up fast in the summer, so schedule your tour early! We also offer DC Beer Tours to breweries, cideries, and distilleries.

Recommended Virginia Wine Tour Packages

Browse our selection of curated wine tours. These are the most popular destinations and itineraries for wine tasting in Virginia and Maryland. We can also accommodate custom tours from DC. We recommend choosing up to 3 wineries for your tour so you can maximize your time at each winery.

Leesburg Area

Tarara Lost Creek Hidden Brook Fabbioli Cellars Stone Tower Casanel Dry Mill Fleetwood Farm

Warrenton Area

Mediterranean Pearmund Cellars La Grange Molon Lave Granite Heights Vint Hill

Route 9 (Most Popular)

Breaux Doukénie Corcoran Veramar Otium Cellars Bogati Bodega Casanel (New) Notaviva (New) 868 Estate Vineyard at Grandale Farm (New) North Gate Vineyard

Fauquier/I-66

Three Fox Blue Valley Rappahannock Barrel Oak Winery

Warrenton + Rt 211

Narmada Winery Gray Ghost Pearmund The Winery at La Grange Mediterranean Cellars

Middleburg + Rt 15

Chrysalis Swedenburg Quattro Goomba’s Willowcroft Boxwood Winery

Limo Service for Winery Tours in Northern Virginia

Experience luxury travel throughout your wine tour. Choose from several fully-equipped vehicles for your trip. We have party buses for wine tours available too!

Luxury Suburban

5 Passengers

Stretch Lincoln Limousine

10 Passengers

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

12-13 Passengers

2024 Luxury White Sprinter Limousine

14 Passengers

Stretch Expedition

Stretch H2 Hummers

20 Passengers

Luxury Executive Bus

24 Passengers

Custom Party Bus

Luxury Executive Grech Bus

30-40 Passengers

Wine Tour Pricing – Sunday through Thursday

Pricing is all-inclusive of all service fees

Wine Tour Pricing – Saturday Only

They say Virginia is for lovers…Wine lovers!

What could be more enjoyable than touring the rolling Virginia countryside on a lovely day and visiting its most acclaimed wineries? Presidential Limousine has the perfect combination of familiarity with the local winemaking community, impeccable vehicles, and knowledgeable chauffeurs.

Let us handle the driving, and you can enjoy a perfect ambiance for wine-tasting in the Old Dominion. You may choose from one of several tour packages or create your own list of wineries to visit!

Presidential Limo provides limousine service, car service and limo bus for Virginia Wine Tours and Loudoun Wine Trail Tours. Northern Virginia Wineries are growing in size and number! It is a very exciting time for wine lovers to visit the “Napa Valley of the East”. Drought conditions in the last few years have led to wonderful grape growing conditions for local Northern Virginia wineries.

Never been on a Northern Virginia wine tour? We can help! Feel free to select a Northern Virginia wine tour from the list below, or customize your own! Your chauffeur will greet you promptly at the pickup time and location of your choosing. For best results, we recommend that your group meets at one pickup location.

This maximizes the time spent at the wineries. Your chauffeur will wait at each location while you enjoy a sampling of local Virginia wines. You can choose as many wineries as you would like to sample in one day! Prices are based on time as opposed to the number of wineries you visit. Please keep in mind that the average tasting takes about an hour to complete.

Travel time between wineries varies which is why we have put together the tours listed below. Each group of wineries below are located within relatively close proximity to one another. We hope this will maximize your enjoyment of our wonderful Virginia wine country .

We hope you won’t hesitate to contact us should you have any questions regarding planning your booking your wine tour. Northern Virginia wineries operate year-round, so rain or shine it’s a great day to do a wine tasting! We’re here to help, and look forward to having you as another one of our satisfied customers!

Wine Tour FAQs

How many wineries can we visit.

We recommend 2-3 wineries for groups of up to 14 people. For groups of over 14, we recommend only 2 wineries so that you are not rushed. Larger group means lengthier tastings and require more time to load and unload the vehicle.

How long do we have at each winery?

That depends on your party. Usually you can spend an average of 1 to 1.5 hours at each winery.

What happens if our wine tasting runs late?

It is not a problem at all depending on the vehicle availability. We will be happy to extend your time as long as we don’t have anything else scheduled after you for that particular vehicle.

What’s included in a wine tour?

At Presidential Limousine we provide luxury and safe transportation and the chauffeur. For anything else, we suggest contacting the wineries to make reservation, find out tasting fees and other rules and policies that they have in place.

What are the most popular wineries to visit in Virginia?

The most popular wineries in Virginia are Wildcraft Farm, Linden, Bluemont, Three Fox, Stone Tower, 868 Estate, Rappahannock Cellars and The Winery at Bull Run.

How much time should we book for our Virginia Wine Tour?

On average a 4 hour wine tour will visit 1 to 2 wineries. A 5 hour wine tour will visit 2 to 3 wineries. A 6 hour wine tour will visit up to 3 to 4 wineries. The number of wineries visited is determined by many factors, including the distance from the first pickup location to the first winery, and the final winery to the final drop-off location.

You may determine that you would like to spend more time in a particular winery, or less in another. Your chauffeur will not rush you through your trip in order to accomplish all winery visits that appear on the itinerary. You can plan to visit as many wineries as you would like, but we cannot guarantee that you will have the time to visit all of them.

Please note, that overtime may not be available and you should book as much time you believe you will need plus a buffer. If you believe you will need the 4 hour package, please consider booking the 5 hour package since time seems to fly on wine tours and we want to be sure you have plenty of time to complete your tour! In the event of unscheduled overtime, a slightly higher rate will apply.

Can we bring food in the limo?

 Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food to enjoy it at the wineries, however, please keep in mind that you will be charged $250.00 for excessive cleanup if you decide to eat in the vehicle.

Tips for a flawless Virginia Wine Tour

Book your wine tour transportation as soon as possible. Generally, we sell out Saturdays up to 3-4 weeks ahead of time during Spring, Summer, Fall and 1-2 weeks ahead of time in Winter.

You can book your transportation without knowing exactly which wineries you’ll be visiting. We can always update your itinerary later.

After narrowing down your itinerary, call each winery to make sure they can accommodate your group around the time you’d like to arrive. Call the winery and make a reservation for your tasting, and make a note of who you spoke with.

Individual winery policies vary widely and change often. Wineries may require that tasting fees for large groups be paid in advance.

When you are done with the perfect wine tour of Northern Virginia, book us for an unforgettable Washington DC Tour Bus while you are in town!

Connect In-Person

Campus tours.

Northern Virginia Community College is comprised of six campuses conveniently located throughout northern Virginia. Students at NOVA have the flexibility to choose their primary campus when registering for classes but have access to the services and support each individual campus offers. Check out the tour schedules below to see each location in person.

Dates/Times

Summer 2024 May 6 - August 9  Tuesday and Wednesdays at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm for groups smaller than 10. By appointment only . Note: Tours are not offered during exam periods, intersession, and when the college is closed.

Bisdorf Administration Building (AA) In front of the library, AA-232 5000 Dawes Avenue Alexandria, VA 22311

Ms. Octavia Young [email protected] 703.845.6520

Fall 2024 Semester

• Mondays: 1:00 p.m.
• Thursdays: 10:00 a.m.
• Mondays at 2:00 p.m.
• Thursdays at 10:00 a.m.

Mark Warner Student Services Building (CA) By the Information Desk, first floor 8333 Little River Turnpike Annandale, VA 22003

NOTE: For groups no larger than 6 people, registration is not required. No tours on holidays or when the college is closed.

Summer 2024 May 7 - August 9 Monday and Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Thursday: 2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Note: Tours are by appointment only. Tours are not offered during exam periods and when the college is closed.

Learning Commons Building LC102, Information Desk 21200 Campus Drive Sterling, VA 20164

Bobby Timms [email protected] [email protected]

Fall 2024 September 10 - December 5 Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. By appointment only .

Register here to schedule your tour .

Note: Tours are not offered during exam periods and when the college is closed.

Howsmon Hall Room MH 108 10950 Campus Drive Manassas, VA 20109

Dr. Daphne Carter-McCants [email protected] 703.530.3057

Medical Education Campus

More information coming soon.

Spring 2024 January 8 - May 6 Monday - Thursday, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. By appointment only .

Ms. Toni De Luz [email protected]

Explore The Site

Imagine Dragons was my son’s first concert. How the band’s message could save lives

Halfway through Monday night’s Imagine Dragons concert, the band stopped the music and turned up the lights.

Standing before thousands of fans on a warm Virginia Beach evening, lead singer Dan Reynolds stood in a spotlight as he advised us all to consider therapy.

It may not sound cool, he said, but it saved his life.

“If any kid here feels alone, feels helpless, feels like you’re hurting, you’re not alone,” he said. “You’re not helpless. You have a bright future ahead of you with all kinds of great things that are yet to be seen.

“And we need you in this journey,” he told the audience.

Chills danced up my arms as my heart melted. My son, Jake Harriss, stood beside me along with his best friend Bradley Geisen. They’re both 8, and this was their first major concert.

Imagine Dragons not only delivered a mesmerizing show and music, but a memorable message about turning challenges into success and managing stress and depression.

“So if you’re hurting, don’t hold it inside. That doesn’t make you strong,” Reynolds continued. “It makes you strong to reach out, to talk to your parents, to talk to your friends, to talk to a loved one.”

Reynolds shares his message at every concert, and it’s one I hope the boys and other kids take to heart.

The pandemic exacerbated an already accelerating trend of declining mental health for children and teens. And now, in this post-pandemic world, kids and teens face challenges like falling behind in reading, bullies criticizing clothing choices and violence forcing schoolwide lockdowns.

It’s become so dire that a national emergency in child and adolescent mental health was declared in 2021 by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Children’s Hospital Association. In 2023, 40% of high school students said they felt sad or hopeless almost every day, and 29% experienced poor mental health, according to the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey.

First concert

After Jake had a bumpy kindergarten year at Voyager Elementary, he found Bradley in Mrs. McDonald’s first-grade class. Their friendship calmed the busy boys with racing minds and anxiety. I got the idea to buy the tickets to see Imagine Dragons, their favorite band, to celebrate Jake’s hard work in second grade. Fortunately, Bradley and his mother, Emily Geisen, wanted to come too.

The tickets, however, came with a research assignment. Jake, Bradley and I watched YouTube interviews and read Rolling Stone and other articles about the band. Reynolds says they’re not necessarily a rock group, describing the band more as a mix of singer-songwriter, rhythmic and hip-hop.

We learned that Imagine Dragons band members spent four years developing their music playing in Las Vegas clubs and casinos before they released their first album in 2012, “Night Visions.” The album included the single “Radioactive,” which Rolling Stone named the “biggest rock hit of the year” in a 2013 article. The article described the band’s big sound as a mixture of Mumford & Sons and Coldplay.

About Imagine Dragons

In June, the Grammy Award-winning band released their sixth studio album, “Loom,” followed by their biggest North American headline tour so far. They played at the Veterans United Home Loan Amphitheater in Virginia Beach on Monday and at the PNC Music Arena in Charlotte on Wednesday.

In articles and videos, Reynolds speaks about struggling with depression and anxiety, and being an introvert who finds writing songs and playing to sold-out arenas therapeutic. We liked that he won’t let critics put him in a one-genre box, but keeps it exciting by trying different sounds.

Reynolds grew up in a conservative Mormon household, but no longer practices the religion that he feels is harmful to gay youth, he told People magazine earlier this year.

In 2017, he founded the LOVELOUD festival , which is centered around igniting conversations with parents and others “about what it means to unconditionally love our LGBTQ+ friends and family,” according to the festival’s website.

About the show

Before Monday’s concert, we piled into an electric blue Honda Accord with the Uber driver blaring Imagine Dragons. When we arrived at the amphitheater, we found many others also brought their kids.

As night fell, Imagine Dragons stepped onto the stage, and the crowd erupted in excitement.

Reynolds, guitarist Wayne Sermon and bassist Ben McKee played their big hits like “Radioactive,” “Sharks” and “Believer,” amid exploding confetti, flashing flames and strobing lights. They also played “Fire in These Hills and “Nice to Meet You,” a couple of the boys’ favorites from the new album. Two megascreens flanking both sides of the stage reflected the show’s electric energy, often showing crowd members singing, dancing and smiling.

Between the songs, Reynolds celebrated his audience and encouraged us to embrace failure and forgiveness.

Reynolds’ challenges with anxiety hit home for Jake and Bradley, and I am sure it resonated with so many other children raised in our post-pandemic classroom environment, amid news of political turmoil, school shootings and teens killing other teens.

Some children also have to navigate this environment while struggling with racial injustice, hunger, homelessness and domestic violence.

When Reynolds paused to make his speech, he told the crowd he had lost too many people who thought life wasn’t worth living.

Don’t let that happen to you, he said.

“I have struggled with depression for a long time,” he said. “I’m not saying I know the cure. I still struggle, but my load is lighter because I get to express it to someone.”

‘All ages need to hear’

Then the lights turned down, and the band’s anthems continued.

Many in the audience seemed to appreciate the serious topics that Imagine Dragons brought to the forefront, including Meredith Miller, a teacher who taught fourth grade for 15 years in Virginia Beach public schools, where she now wrangles first-graders.

Miller said she appreciates Reynolds sharing his message, especially with so many young people struggling with mental illness.

“They need to know that they are not alone, and their life is so important,” she said.

But as Bradley’s mother, Emily, pointed out, the message applies to more than just kids.

“It’s a message all ages need to hear,” she said.

After the show ended, we worked our way through the crowd toward the exit with the boys buzzing with stories about their favorite songs and moments.

They liked what Reynolds had to say when he turned the lights up.

“It was a good speech,” Jake said.

“I feel like it was a convincing speech that would make everyone happy,” if they followed his advice, Bradley said.

This story was originally published August 30, 2024, 7:00 AM.

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Take a tour through Virginia Wine Country and discover spectacular views, fine wine, and good company. Hop aboard a trolley, bus or bike and experience many of Virginia’s more than 300 wineries by taking one of the tours listed below.

If you choose to take a self-guided tour, please designate a driver. Enjoy Virginia wine responsibly.

Wine Trails

Food & drink tours.