By Edwin Thomas
When on holiday in the Washington, D.C., area, you might not think about the attractions of Northern Virginia, despite the fact that a few of the most famous sites in the area are located there. This is especially the case for Memorial Day, as most of the best military- and patriotic-themed sites of the Washington area are located right across the Potomac River. An entire Memorial Day Weekend could easily be spent in the counties of Northern Virginia.
Alexandria and George Washington
Mount Vernon
Given its patriotic origins, Mount Vernon makes an excellent Memorial Day activity. Located just outside of the city of Alexandria is Mount Vernon, the historic estate of the foremost Founding Father, George Washington. The lovely house, with its out-buildings and beautiful grounds, are now a museum dedicated to the nation's first president and to one of his passions: farming. This is especially true for families, as it is a good educational opportunity for children, and one that will probably exhaust them, given the distances involved in walking the entire estate.
Elsewhere in Northern Virginia is the preserved whiskey distillery operated by George Washington. Tickets for Mount Vernon are also good for admission to this site.
After spending the day at Mount Vernon, stop in Old Town Alexandria for refreshments and perhaps dinner. The old core of Alexandria dates back to 1749. Many 18th-century buildings are still there and intact.
Historic Mount Vernon
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway
Mount Vernon, VA 22121
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington Cemetery
The best-known attraction in Northern Virginia is Arlington National Cemetery. The hauntingly beautiful grounds are home to many sites that are appropriate to Memorial Day, such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the grave and eternal flame of John F. Kennedy, the Lee House, the Iwo Jima Memorial, the USS Maine Memorial, and numerous other monuments.
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington, Virginia 22211
Manassas National Battlefield
Memorial Day began to commemorate the Civil War.
Memorial Day was enacted as a national holiday to commemorate Civil War veterans, so a visit to a Virginia Civil War battlefield is an obvious choice for a Memorial Day weekend activity. Located on the outskirts of the Northern Virginia suburbs is Manassas National Battlefield Park. This was the site of both the First and Second Battles of Bull Run (or First and Second Manassas as the Confederates knew them). This is the battlefield park closest to Washington, so much so that picnickers came out to watch the first battle, fought in 1861. Featuring a museum, guided tours and well-marked paths, it is a must for Civil War buffs.
6511 Sudley Road
Manassas, VA 20109
Falls Church
On Memorial Day itself, the city of Falls Church will have its annual Memorial Day Parade and Festival. This event will include a parade, fun run, live stage performances, food, rides and crafts.
Cherry Hill Farm House and Park and City Hall Grounds
300 Park Ave.
Falls Church, VA 22046
Resources
About the Author:
Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.
