It can feel like there’s a new area to visit in Northern Virginia, and the area around Manassas is no exception. Steeped in history but also easily accessible by car, the area around Manassas has it all. From the Civil War battlefields of Thurmond Hill to the quiet, tree-lined streets of Rockville, Manassas is a hidden gem with a distinct identity all its own. Here are a few things you need to know about the area if you’re looking to explore the region.
Manassas is not a town. It’s a city, and has been for almost a century. By all accounts, it shouldn’t work. It’s a small community with a rich history dating back to the American Revolution. But Manassas has managed to hold onto its identity as a city, distinct from nearby jurisdictions with town names like Manassas Junction, Manassas Park, and Manassas Falls. It’s no secret that the area around Manassas is rich in Civil War history. The city’s most iconic landmark, the Confederate-era Confederate Soldiers National Monument, overlooks the Battle of Stone Mountain. Visitors can also explore the grounds of the nearby Confederate General Robert E. Lee Memorial Museum, which has an informative visitor center and a Civil War-themed restaurant. But Manassas’s most recognizable feature is its utterly charming historic district, which is chock full of charming small shops, restaurants, and bars.
Manassas is a beautiful place. It’s also home to one of the most incredible Civil War battlefields in the area. The Battle of Thurmond Hill, also known as the Manassas Gap, is one of the most famous Civil War battles of all time. It was fought April 6, 1862, and is perhaps best remembered for the infamous “Duel in the Fields.” In that fight, Confederate Lt. Gen. P.G. Tullahoma and Union Maj. Gen. William French Latrobe engaged in a one-on-one duel to the death, with Tullahoma shooting first. The duel’s outcome is still disputed—Latrobe lost the battle, but not the war. Overlooking Manassas from the south is the Confederate Soldiers National Monument, a national monument in the form of a massive stone obelisk.
Manassas has something for everyone. There are a variety of shops and restaurants to enjoy during the day, and nightlife is heavy on the Southern California punk scene. The Manassas Battlefield State Historic Site, located about five miles west of the city, features a visitor center, exhibit area, and a selection of battlefield sites. The Manassas National Historic Landmark, located about two-and-a-half miles west of the city, features exhibits, a visitor center, and a casual restaurant.
Manassas is steeped in history, but is also home to a number of monuments that tell the story. The most iconic is the Confederate Soldiers National Monument, which overlooks the Manassas Battlefield. The monument is a sprawling work of American sculptor, Pietro Annigoni, who also created the spire of the nearby Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church. The monuments at Manassas include a massive crater left by a Union Round-Up, and the Confederate Soldiers Home, which is also called the Manassas Mansion.
There are plenty of options for a meal or a night out when you’re in the Manassas area. The Olde Towne Tavern is a classic, with a jump-start welcome from the tavern keeper and an impressive list of Horseshoes andalias that are dunked in hot sauces. Avanti Indian Cuisine is a few doors down from the Olde Towne Tavern and offers an authentic take on South Asian cuisine. Caffe D’oro is a must for coffee lovers, with expertly brewed coffee and an ever-changing selection of sweets.
Manassas is a fast-growing city with a great deal to offer both the seasoned traveler and the first-time visitor. From the excellent dining options to the fun and creative nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. If you’re planning a visit to Manassas, make time to explore the city’s history and architecture, sample some of the delicious food from local restaurants, and take in the stunning views of the Manassas Battlefield. You’ll be glad you did.
Point of Interest #1 Baldwin Park, 9101 Prince William St, Manassas, VA 20110, United States
Point of Interest #2 Chofita’s Food truck, 20110, Manassas, VA 20110, United States
Point of Interest #3 La Jarochita Restaurant, 9612 Grant Ave, Manassas, VA 20110, United States
Driving Directions From The Marines Plumbing Service of Manassas To One Point Of Interest In This Geo Grid Area
Written Driving Directions From The Marines Plumbing Service of Manassas To One Point Of Interest In This Geo Grid Area
Start: Marines Plumbing Service of Manassas
12084 Cadet Ct, Manassas, VA 20109, United States
46 s (0.1 mi)
Head southeast toward Cadet Ct
144 ft
Turn left toward Cadet Ct
13 ft
Turn right toward Cadet Ct
108 ft
Turn right onto Cadet Ct
249 ft
Turn left at the 1st cross street onto Wellington Rd
10 min (4.5 mi)
3 min (0.9 mi)
Turn left onto Prince William St
0.8 mi
Turn right onto Liberty St
125 ft
Turn left
436 ft
End: Baldwin Park
9101 Prince William St, Manassas, VA 20110, United States
