by Krista Beck

While many think of Northern Virginia as Fairfax, Leesburg, Reston, Tyson’s Corner, there are in fact more layers to the onion! The area is largely agricultural, filled with rural small towns and stunning views as the Blue Ridge Mountains line the horizon. Your trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to these beautiful, and often historical, sites.

The Plains is central to Middleburg, Front Royal, Warrenton and Fairfax. Just off Route 66, you’ll find The Plains included in a cluster of small towns, including Marshall and Delaplane. The total population in The Plains is 238. This incredibly small town hosted the first Union Camp in Fauquier County during the Civil War, and is now home to the Afro-American Historical Association.

Take the scenic route to enjoy the one hour drive south from Potomac Overlook Farms. Fauquier County is known for being at the heart of wine and hunt country, filled with equestrian farms, vineyards and views of meadows and mountains. Not far from D.C., Fauquier is certainly an escape from the bustle of city life.

What to do in and around The Plains? For one thing, relax, slow down and enjoy the scenery and beautiful estates. Beyond the landscape, here is a list of ideas for in and around The Plains.

PLAY OUTSIDE

Sky Meadows State Park. With plenty of grounds and trails to explore, you could easily spend half a day exploring and picnicking through this scenic park.

HAVE A MEAL

1. Front Porch Market & Grill. Enjoy a delicious meal of locally sourced, traditional fare with imaginative new takes. Front Porch Market & Grill is the neighborhood hang out.

2. Girasole. Beautiful, delicious, authentic and fresh Italian Fare in a beautiful setting. Girasole uses naturally raised meats, house made pastas and hand-pressed olive oil. You will not be disappointed!

3. Field & Main. Locally sourced food and drink in a higher end atmosphere. Beautiful food and setting in a 200 year old home.

4. Eugene’s Sausage & Fries. Sometimes, you just need the most creative take on an original classic. Check out these incredibly inspired sausages!

5. El Agave 3 Mexican Restaurant. If you’re feeling the need for a burrito or fajita, or maybe even a margarita, make it a point to stop for some delicious Mexican inspired food!

TASTE SOME WINE

1. The Bubble Decker Wine Bar. A presentation of Cave Ridge Vineyards, visit the Bubble Decker Wine Bar in Marshall, a converted double decker bus serving wine!

2. Barrel Oak Winery. This is a fun, pet friendly winery that serves wine and beer surrounded by mountain views. They offer a light fare and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.

3. The Winery at La Grange. A family friendly winery in a beautiful historic house with scenic outdoor space. They say perhaps you might even experience a ghost?

4. Slater Run Vineyards. Visit this unique solar powered winery with over 12 acres of vines. The winery specializes in dry, French style wines, and showcases a variety of reds and whites.

5. Boxwood Estate Vineyards. Boxwood is located in historic Middleburg, just north of The Plains. The intimate, elegant tasting room welcomes you with French inspired wines. They even have a wine cave you can view from the tasting room.

EXPLORE THE SHOPS

1. Live An Artful Life. Not only can you browse unique, handmade, U.S. art pieces, but immerse yourself in the philosophy of Tom and Linda Neel. “To live an artful life is to immerse yourself in something other than the mundane and enjoy life to its fullest through a world of visionary exploration.”

2. Zig Zag Crafts, Gallery & Shop. This shop houses work from a local community of artists. There is also an emphasis on children’s enrichment, as they also offer workshops, after school and summer programs.

3. Crest Hill Antiques & Tea Room. Explore high-quality, curated antiques and decor at this shop, which specializes in 19th and 20th century American and European pieces. Take a break and enjoy an afternoon refreshment in the Tea Room!

4. Baileywyck Antiques. Explore 4600 square feet of personally collected, good conditioned antique pieces.

5. Big Dogs Pots Pottery. Pottery and stained glass pieces for sale. Big Dogs also offers classes and workshops, as well as walk in Paint Your Own Pottery!

6. Full Moon Shop. Explore the luxurious creations made from local alpaca yarn from Alpaca Full Moon Farm.

LEARN

1. Afro-American Historical Association. The AAHA educates folks on the historical and genealogical heritage of Afro-Americans in Fauquier County. Their work includes uncovering important cultural sites, identifying genealogical heritage, preserving artifacts and participating in scholarly research and publications. They have also helped discover parts of the Underground Railroad in Fauquier, as well as several other meaningful sites and structures. Catch an event if you can or visit the museum.

2. School House 18 Museum. Go back in time and soak in the one room school house experience. School House 18 is the only unmodified one room school house in Fauquier County.

Have a wonderful day out!