Labor Day is all about you—the hardworking American. So this weekend, trade in your work shoes for adventure and fun!

Celebrate the unofficial end of summer right here in Prince William, VA. From outdoor adventures and foodie festivals to historic experiences and craft fairs, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the long weekend in DC’s Countryside. To make it easy, we’ve rounded up a few of the best ways to spend your Labor Day Weekend in Prince William, Virginia!

1. Take a Hike!

We didn’t mean it that way—what we meant is that Prince William is home to dozens of hiking trails for every kind of hiker. One of the most popular is Prince William Forest Park, the largest protected natural forest in the DC region. With more than 15,000 acres of trails and breathtaking scenery, it’s the perfect place to leave workday stress behind. Conveniently located just off I-95, the park sits just south of Potomac Mills—Virginia’s largest outlet mall.

We could go on and on about our trails, but we’d be remiss not to give an honorable mention to the walking paths at Silver Lake Regional Park! This 230-acre park features pine forests, rolling meadows, and a sparkling 23-acre lake. With four miles of hiking and equestrian trails, plus picnic areas and public restrooms, it’s the perfect spot for a family-friendly hike.

women standing on a bridge

2. Relax on the Water

With the Potomac and Occoquan Rivers right at our doorstep, Prince William is the perfect destination for water adventures. If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, head to Penguin Paddling in Occoquan, VA. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or join one of their guided tours to explore historic buildings, scenic ruins, and spot local wildlife along the way.

After working up an appetite, stroll through charming Historic Occoquan and refuel at favorites like Madigan’s Waterfront, Ballywhack Shack Café, or Graffiti Cat Pizza. It’s the ideal mix of outdoor fun and small-town flavor!

a woman and two children kayaking in a river, one of the children is holding both arms up excited

3. Explore Our History

It’s no secret that Prince William, Virginia is rich with history, but fully immersing yourself in it is a whole different experience. If you’re looking for a break from the sun (and a blast of refreshing AC), head to the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Virginia.

This state-of-the-art museum honors and preserves America’s story through the eyes of U.S. Marines. Its striking design features a dramatic 210-foot tilted steel mast and glass atrium, inspired by the iconic flag raising at Iwo Jima. Inside, you’ll find powerful exhibits that bring history to life.

After exploring, stop by Tun Tavern—a nod to the original birthplace of the Marine Corps—for a bite to eat and a cold brew.

National Museum of the Marine Corps - exterior

4. Sip on Award Winning Wine

Many stops along our Steins, Vines, and Moonshine Trail are celebrated for their award-winning drinks—so why not experience them for yourself?

One standout is The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm in Gainesville, VA. Perched on the shores of Lake Manassas, it’s the only local winery offering sweeping views of the water from every room. Locally owned and set on more than 20 acres, Sunshine Ridge features a rustic wine tasting room and an old-world pub-style brewery complete with cozy fireplaces.

Whether you’re looking to sip a glass of wine with a good book, take a sunset stroll along the waterfront, or host a private event, Sunshine Ridge provides the perfect setting for any occasion.

Make sure you download out Steins, Vines, and Moonshine Trail app so you can check in at our locations and win a prize! 

view from the lake looking at the winery at sunshine ridge exterior

5. Test Your Skills on the Course

Prince William, Virginia is a golfer’s paradise with more than 13 courses (both public and private)—and we’ve even hosted two major tournaments in the past year and a half. So why not channel your inner golf pro and play a quick 9 or a full 18 on one of our beautiful courses?

If you’re looking for something a little more elevated than mini golf but not quite as fancy as Robert Trent Jones, head to Old Hickory Golf Club in Woodbridge. Designed by architect Tim Freeland, this par-72, 7,190-yard championship course was built to flow seamlessly with the natural landscape. With winding creeks, scenic views, and challenging fairways, Old Hickory is a course golfers of all levels will love.

old hickory

6. End the Night with Live Music

Nothing says Labor Day weekend like live music—and the NOVA Live Campus (formally known as FARM BREW LIVE) is your one-stop destination for it all! This 12-acre campus brings together craft beer, delicious eats, and of course, incredible performances from local artists. When you’re ready for a break from the stage, explore other favorites on-site like MurLarkey Distilled Spirits, Black Sheep, and Proof.

Bring the kids, grab a cold drink, and dance under the stars as we officially bid farewell to summer in Prince William, VA.

Aerial shot of Farm Brew Live Campus with social distancing of tables with black umbrellas spaced out.

As the sun sets on summer, spend your Labor Day weekend making memories with family, friends, and live music under the stars right here in Prince William, Virginia!