Virginia Railway Express
Few localities in northern Virginia offer the diversity of activities available to visitors and residents alike as is available in the vibrant, growing Prince William County/Manassas area. From pre-Revolutionary War settlements and trading centers along the Occoquan and Potomac Rivers, the exploits of Civil War battles and skirmishes, to the bustling metropolitan area of today, the County and City offer the best of old and new. Combining history, culture and cuisine, the area draws an increasing number of visitors each year. As Civil War buffs know, two major battles of the war were fought locally, the Battle of First Manassas in 1861 and the Battle of Second Manassas in 1862. The Manassas railroad junction was of major importance to both North and South and was hotly contested throughout the conflict.
Prince William County and Manassas offer more than historical attractions. For train enthusiasts, the Manassas Railway festival displays both full-size modern trains and model train layouts. The also offers face painting for the younger set and live music for the entertainment of kids of all ages. Festivals and fairs celebrating the arts, ethnic diversity, agriculture and the history of the area abound. In August look for the African-American Arts Festival in August 703-369-2475) , the Prince William County Fair (703-368-0173) and the Civil War Weekend commemorating the second Battle of Manassas (703-368-1873/703-361-1399). Music lovers will appreciate the Summer Sounds Concert Series on the lawn of the Manassas Museum at 6:30pm on Saturdays throughout the month of August (703-330-0130).
Virginia Railway Express (VRE) offers metro visitors and residents a unique, relaxing and stress free way to enjoy Manassas. VRE can carry visitors from the Washington area (and intermediate points) to Manassas' VRE station in air conditioned comfort. VRE trains offer café car amenities and permit passengers to avoid the stress of highway commuting and the hassle of parking. Upon arrival, make your first stop at the Visitor Center on Prince William Street for helpful, friendly advice on attractions for all family members. The Center is located in Old Town Manassas at 9101 Prince William Street at the intersection with Main Street, about a block from the VRE Station. The Center and the adjacent museum are open from 10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and closed on Mondays and all Federal holidays.