Editors note: From exceptional museums and children’s programs to historic haunts and unique hikes, there are numerous hidden places waiting to be explored in Prince William & Manassas. Through a monthly feature, Discover Prince William & Manassas will help residents and visitors alike discover some of the best kept attractions, activities and events the community has to offer.
Prince William & Manassas’ Best Kept — Childrens Programs
The long, lazy days of summer are in full swing, but the learning doesn’t have to stop for children across the region.
From outdoor adventures to educational camps and scavenger hunts, there are numerous unique programs in Prince William & Manassas that will keep students active until the school bell rings again this fall.
Children can experience history first-hand at one of the three Civil War camps offered by Prince William’s Historic Preservation Division. During the week-long camps, children will travel back in time to learn about life as a Civil War solder. Activities include camp life, infantry drills, enlisting in the army, Civil War medicine and “Did Civil War soldiers really eat that stuff? The program ends with a trip to Manassas National Battlefield Park, said Dave Born who manages the camps annually.
“When I was about their age, I had an opportunity to experience Civil War history at a national park site,” Born said. “I’m trying to pass on to this generation an opportunity to experience the Civil War. I hope it sparks enough interest in them to continue studying it.”
Another way children can discover America’s history is through the new cell-phone guided TRACK Trails adventures at Manassas National Battlefield Park.
Created by the Kids in Parks program, TRACK Trails unites history and nature as children follow one of four different brochures as they hike the park’s Stone Bridge Trail. The brochures cover history, birding, trees and the hidden gems along the path that are often overlooked like a sparkling rock or bird’s nest.
On the east side of the county, Prince William Forest Park offers various children’s activities including the Junior Ranger program and something called Letterboxing, according the park’s website.
Letterboxing combines hiking, treasure hunting and navigation as children are asked to follow clues to find a hidden letterbox along the trail. Once completed, children can stamp their thumbprint on a paper and leave it in the box to show they completed the task.
When it’s too hot for a hike, stay inside and visit the free National Museum of the Marine Corps. The interactive museum not only features monthly family days but also recently created various scavenger hunts that engage children as they tour the numerous galleries chronicling the history of the Marine Corps.
For Civil War camp dates and more information about the programs, events and attractions that are great for children of all ages, visit DiscoverPWM.com
Recent Stories
Step back in time and experience history firsthand at Ben Lomond Historic Site in Manassas, VA. Built in 1832, this remarkable home once served as a Confederate field hospital during the Battle of First Manassas. Today, visitors can explore its preserved rooms, complete with Civil War-era graffiti left by Union soldiers, as well as the original slave quarters, smokehouse, and dairy that tell the story of the people who lived and worked here.
Stroll Through History – Don’t miss the fragrant Rose Garden, featuring one of the largest collections of antique roses in the region.
Engaging Tours – Open Friday-Monday, 10 AM-4 PM, with guided tours at 11 AM and 2 PM. Admission: $5 per person, free for children under six.
Accessible Experiences – Enjoy 360° Virtual Tour tablets and foreign language guides in French, Italian, German, Chinese, and Spanish—available at no extra cost!
Volunteer With Us! – Love Civil War history or gardening? Join our team and help preserve this incredible piece of Prince William County’s past.
Visit us at 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 20109
(703) 367-7872 | ? [email protected]
Plan your visit today and experience history like never before!
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Coles District Supervisor Yesli Vega is pushing to cancel the long-debated Route 28 Bypass project, a multi-year effort designed to alleviate congestion on Route 28 by extending Godwin Drive to connect Manassas with Dulles Airport. The Prince William Board of County Supervisors is set to vote on her resolution during its meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. The project, initially endorsed in September 2020, was meant to relieve congestion on Route 28 by constructing a four-lane divided bypass extending Godwin Drive across Sudley Road. The road would have connected with Route 28 at a signalized intersection north of Bull Run Stream in Fairfax County.
If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
