Things To Do
Great Falls Park
Situated at a point along the Potomac River where the river falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks, flowing through a narrow gorge. One of the most biodiverse locations in the country, Great Falls is home to more than 150 species of birds throughout the year, along with whitetail deer, fox, box turtles, squirrels, coyotes, bats, and chipmunks, as well as a wide variety of plants. Approximately 30 minutes from the wedding hotel. $35 entrance fee per vehicle; free with the NPS Annual Pass.
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Part of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, this large collection of ornamental and native plant gardens sits on 95 acres. Topographically, the property embodies the Virginia Piedmont, with large hills dropping off to small streams, forested hollows, and expansive views. Includes the Korean Bell Garden which features the "Bell of Peace and Harmony," cast by one of the best bell makers in Korea following a handmade method used for centuries. Also houses a Bonsai Pavilion that includes elms, pines, spruces, maples, cypresses, and azaleas. Roughly a 20-minute drive from the wedding hotel. Entrance fees range from $4 to $8.
Raven Rocks Trail
The view from Raven Rocks is one of the best in the area. At a total distance of 5.8 miles with a vertical gain of 1,530 feet, there are three strenuous ascents on this out-and-back hike which runs along a section of the Appalachian Trail. This hike is generally considered a moderately challenging route, and it takes an average of 3.25 hours to complete. Roughly a 40-minute drive from the wedding hotel. Limited parking is available at no charge in a lot along Virginia Route 7. There is no fee to access the trail.
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is one of our favorite places on the East Coast. It features more than 500 miles of trails branching out from the 105-mile Skyline Drive which runs the entire length of the park from north to south. From the wedding hotel, the Front Royal entrance and the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center are the closest access points to take in the vistas along Skyline Drive, pick a trail to hike, or simply enjoy some time in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Approximately an hour from the wedding hotel (to the Front Royal entrance). $30 entrance fee per vehicle; free with the NPS Annual Pass.
Sky Meadows State Park
An 1,860-acre park with scenic views, woodlands, and rolling pastures. Includes 10.5 miles of bridle (not to be confused with bridal) trails, 22 miles of hiking trails, 9 miles of bike trails, and Appalachian Trail access. The park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park and holds monthly astronomy programs. Check the website for the schedule. Roughly a 40-minute drive from the wedding hotel. $10 entrance/parking fee per vehicle.
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Part of the Smithsonian's family of museums, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center displays thousands of aviation and space artifacts, including the Space Shuttle Discovery, a Blackbird SR-71, and a Concorde, in two large hangars. How could you not want to check this out while here? Less than a 10-minute drive from the wedding hotel. Free entry; no tickets required.