7 Hidden Gems to Discover this Winter

Looking for a safe way to get out and explore this winter? Plan a quick getaway to Lorton, Virginia and experience history, art, culture, and the outdoors!

Whether you are a life-long resident of Virginia, visiting friends and family, or recently moved to the area, discover the best-kept secrets in Northern Virginia by visiting South Fairfax County. Set out on a winter adventure and explore National Historic Landmarks, experience award-winning art, and relax in nature. Whatever you are looking for, Mason Neck and the greater Lorton area has safe and family-friendly options to fill your weekend.

#1: George Mason’s Gunston Hall

10709 Gunston Road
Lorton, VA 22079

Gunston Hall, a National Historic Landmark, is recognized as “The Home of American Rights” and is the 18th-century home of George Mason, author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights and the “Father of the Bill of Rights.” Located on 550+ acres on the rural peninsula of Mason Neck, VA, Gunston Hall draws visitors from Virginia, Washington, D.C., Maryland and throughout the United States. 

On Gunston Hall’s expansive site, you’ll find:

  • A Visitor Center with a new exhibition, Revolutionary Rights, that explores the life and legacy of George Mason
  • The 1755 Georgian-style mansion of George Mason 
  • The recently restored historic riverside garden; a one-acre garden featuring original elements of Mason’s design overlooking the Potomac River 
  • Walking and hiking trails for outdoor adventurers 
  • Self-guided and group tours of the house and grounds offered daily
  • A Museum Shop featuring art by local artisans, books, and seasonal gifts

Website: https://www.gunstonhall.org
Phone: (703) 550-9220

#2: Pohick Bay Regional Park

6501 Pohick Bay Drive
Lorton, VA 22079

Pohick Bay Regional Park provides visitors lodging opportunities with their cabins, camping, and RV sites. In addition, they offer daily boat and recreation rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas, waterpark, and miniature golf course. Take advantage of a 25% discount on lodging during weekdays (Monday – Thursday).  Be sure to reserve your campground now for the summer, they book quickly!

Website: https://www.novaparks.com/parks/pohick-bay-regional-park
Phone: (703) 339-6104

#3: The Workhouse Arts Center

9518 Workhouse Way
Lorton, VA 22079

In the site of a former prison, today the Workhouse Arts Center is home to visual, performing arts, culinary and exercise classes, workshops and camps as well as art exhibits and artist space. Now a National Historic Landmark, visitors can browse through the galleries free of charge, take a class with professional artists, or attend one of the many events they host each year like their Community Market or Drive-In Movies.  

Website: https://www.workhousearts.org/hours/
Phone: (703) 584-2900

#4: The Stables at Meadowood

10406 Gunston Rd
Lorton, VA 22079

The Stables at Meadowood is a unique horse farm that is run in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, a federal agency. Situated on rolling pastures, with access to miles of trails, the Stables at Meadowood  offers visitors unique opportunities such as riding lessons, pony birthday parties, educational hands-on classes, and camps.

Website: https://www.stablesatmeadowood.com/
Phone: (703) 339-5813

#5: Occoquan Regional Park

 9751 Ox Rd
Lorton, VA 22079

Occoquan Regional Park is a 350 acre park located just 9 miles from George Mason’s Gunston Hall and features a new River View at the Jean R. Packard Center – A premier event space for up to 300 seated guests, featuring the 1608 room, and interpretive foyer depicting John Smith’s voyage on the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can take a stroll along the waterfront plaza, and pop into Brickmakers Café for lunch or rent out the large group pavilion. The park also includes a 5k loop trail, batting cages, and kayak rentals.

Website: https://www.novaparks.com/parks/occoquan-regional-park
Phone: (703) 690-2121

#6: Historic Occoquan District

Mill Street
Occoquan, VA 22125

Historic Occoquan is a former mill town that welcomes visitors to more than 100 art, antique and specialty stores and eateries. Only a 15 minute drive from George Mason’s Gunston Hall, visitors can enjoy dining and shopping opportunities along the river in this historic and quaint town.

Website: https://www.visitpwc.com/listing/historic-occoquan/416/
Phone: (703) 491-1918

#7: Mason Neck State Park

7301 High Point Rd
Lorton, VA 22079

Mason Neck State Park is located on 1,814+ acres in Mason Neck, Virginia and is home to bald eagles, great blue herons, ospreys, and many other types of wildlife.

The park offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature through its hiking trails, campsites, and access to the Potomac River. Visitors to the park are often surprised at its remote and rural landscape, due to its close proximity to the greater Northern Virginia urban development.

Tucked away at the end of the Mason Neck Peninsula, Mason Neck State Park is another hidden gem in the Lorton area and the perfect location for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts.

Website: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/mason-neck.shtml
Phone: (703) 339-2385