When you think of Washington, D.C., you might picture government officials rushing about, massive monuments, and lots of traffic. But did you happen to think about baby goats and locally produced wine, beer, and spirits?
Prince William County, Virginia, is located just outside the nation’s capital and is the perfect addition to a D.C. group tour. With sprawling parks, beautiful riverfronts, and active farms, Prince William County offers visitors to northern Virginia opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and connect with the land. Check out these group-friendly experiences to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Prince William County.
The Farm Brewery at Broad Run
Crack open a craft beverage over lunch at The Farm Brewery at Broad Run. This family-run farm-turned-brewery stays true to its original farm roots, as it still grows its hops and fruit on the property. Enjoy a walk through the hop field, where the owner can tell your group about growing techniques and how the product is used to produce refreshing craft beer.
Windy Knoll Farm
Next, step onto the tractor-pulled wagon for a guided tour of Windy Knoll Farm. Owners Don and Helen Taylor will share their experience as local sheep and cattle farmers and the advanced farming techniques they use to make their land more environmentally stable. Tour the 1,000-acre farm, see local wildlife, and relax in the cozy barn with warm hospitality before your next stop.
MurLarkey Distilled Spirits
Travel & Leisure recognized this next destination as one of the 25 best distilleries in the U.S. MurLarkey Distilled Spirits is an Irish American, family-owned distillery offering private tours and tastings. Learn about the distilling process from grain to glass and sample the cocktail-ready spirits. Try the barrel-aged dark whiskey called Brutality, the all-natural gin titled Imagination, or the gluten-free vodka aptly named Divine Clarity. Distilled to perfection, packaged with pride, and delivered with cheer, MurLarkey shares its Irish heritage, culture, and love for life in each glass.
Effingham Manor Winery
After a full day, pull up a chair at Effingham Manor Winery for dinner. This 18th-century manor home was settled by William Alexander, the namesake founder of the city of Alexandria, and has five original outbuildings your group can tour. The dinner experience is extra special because groups can choose from a variety of entertainment, including a comedy show, a discussion with a Civil War historian, or a murder mystery theatrical performance.
The Little Goat Farm at the Lake
Groups can spend part of the day cuddling and bottle-feeding goats and petting alpacas and llamas at The Little Goat Farm at the Lake. These adorable animals are incredibly friendly and love to be held and petted. The farm makes its own soap and goat cheese on-site, so be sure to take some home to use later.
Ben Lomond Historic Site
Travel back to the early 19th century to learn about historical farming techniques at Ben Lomond Historic Site. This house was overtaken during the Battle of First Manassas and converted into a Confederate hospital, forcing the residents to pack all their possessions and live in one room of the house. During your group’s guided tour, view a hearth cooking demonstration and hear what would have been on the menu in the 1800s.
Lead image:
Manassas National Battlefield Park
Photo courtesy of Visit Prince William, Virginia