Planning a visit to Prince William, Virginia with your family soon? Summer here is all about slowing down just enough to enjoy the moment. One minute you’re hiking through the woods, the next you’re grabbing ice cream in a historic town or spotting boats along the water. And the best part? You can pack a full weekend with family-friendly fun without spending your entire trip sitting in traffic.
We know planning can be stressful, so let us take some of that weight off your shoulders! Here’s how to spend the perfect summer weekend in Prince William, Virginia with the whole family.
Friday Evening: Check In & Kick Off Summer
Start your weekend by checking into a family-friendly stay like the Hilton Garden Inn in Haymarket, Virginia. Located right in the heart of Haymarket, there is plenty of things to do all around the town. And even better? Most of it is walking distance! Head right down the street to the Haymarket Museum to get a little insight on where you're staying or (safely) cross the road to get some tasty treats from Cupcake Heaven!
If you’re looking to stay closer to shopping and I-95 access, Woodbridge offers several great hotel options near Potomac Mills.
Once everyone’s settled in, head to dinner at Red Roof Inn, where the menu has a little something for everyone and the outdoor atmosphere feels especially lively in the summer months.
After dinner, if you're up for it, head down to The Farm Brewery at Broad Run. The parents can grab a drink and enjoy live music while the kids can run around in their open fields and burn off some dinner!
Saturday Morning: Explore the Outdoors
Summer mornings are made for getting outside before it gets too hot, and there’s no better place to start than Prince William Forest Park. With thousands of acres of forest, scenic trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for biking and wildlife spotting, it’s one of the largest protected natural spaces in Northern Virginia.Plus, there are all kinds of different trails.
Families with younger kids can stick to shorter walking trails, while older adventurers can spend the morning exploring deeper into the park.
If your crew prefers waterfront views, head instead to Leesylvania State Park for fishing, playgrounds, hiking, and beautiful views of the Potomac River. Both are close enough that if you're feeling a little bit of both, you can split it up without having to worry too much about timing for the rest of your fun packed day!
Saturday Afternoon: Water Fun & Small-Town Exploring
Occoquan is the perfect spot to explore and relax after a morning out in the sun. Located right on the Occoquan River, this walkable little town has a handful of delicious options to fill your stomachs before continuing onto the next thing. Madigan's Waterfront is your typical sit down dining spot, but this one happens to be right on the river! If you want something more brunch focused, we suggest either Grind N Crepe or the Secret Garden Cafe. However, if you want something quick and easy, either Graffiti Cat Pizza or Ballywhack Shack Cafe will be your best options.
After lunch, cool off with a paddle along the Occoquan River. Kayaking and paddleboarding have become favorite summer activities for visitors looking to spend time on the water while still staying close to town. Penguin Paddling, right behind Madigan's Waterfront, makes it as easy as it can get. You can pay by the hour so it allows you to take your time and enjoy the water.
Then spend the afternoon exploring Occoquan, where you’ll find local boutiques, ice cream shops, waterfront dining, and plenty of spots to sit back and enjoy the view.
Saturday Evening: Dinner & Live Music With Locals
For dinner, head back up toward Manassas and pop a squat at 2 Silos, located right on the NOVA Live Campus. This brewery is super kid friendly. Like, has a playground type of kid friendly. And the best part of it? They have live music almost every night and a variety of food trucks to pick from. So is someone is feeling burgers while the other is craving tacos, they got it.
Sunday: History, Brunch & One Last Stop
Can you believe your weekend us almost up? I know. We're sad too.
Before heading home, spend your final morning exploring one of Prince William County’s most iconic attractions. If your family loves history and open space, head to Manassas National Battlefield Park, where miles of scenic trails, historic landmarks, and ranger-led programs bring one of the most significant Civil War battlefields in the country to life. It’s a great option for families looking to stretch their legs before getting back in the car, especially on a beautiful summer morning.
After exploring the battlefield, make your way into Historic Manassas for brunch or lunch before heading home. Grab some comfort food and beverages prepared with fresh ingredients and without MSG at The Omlette Cafe. If you're look for some finger-licking food, enjoy a laid-back meal at The Bone, or stop by Monza for pizza, pasta, and a lively atmosphere that works well for families.
If your crew is more interested in immersive exhibits and hands-on experiences, spend the morning at the National Museum of the Marine Corps. From aircraft displays to interactive galleries and moving stories from United States Marine Corps history, it’s one of those museums that keeps both kids and adults engaged from start to finish.
Before hitting I-95, grab a bite nearby in the Triangle/Woodbridge area. Families can refuel with waterfront views at The Harbour Grille, enjoy classic barbecue at Dixie Bones BBQ!
And if there’s still a little energy left before the trip back, a quick stop at Potomac Mills for shopping or snacks is never a bad idea. Because if you even went to somewhere new and didn't come back with a t-shirt or mug, did you even go? We won't judge...we promise.
Because the best family weekends are the ones that feel easy and in Prince William, Virginia, summer adventures tend to do exactly that. See you soon!