The 32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Lorton, VA (Updated 2024)

This is the culmination of your searches if you’re a visitor or local in Lorton, Virginia, seeking for exciting things to do. Come along as we go over a comprehensive list of the top 32 enjoyable activities in Lorton, Virginia, so you can make the most of your time here.

Tucked away in Fairfax County, Virginia, Lorton is most known for being the location of the former Lorton Reformatory, a prison that operated from 1910 to 2010. Since then, the city has seen significant growth, transforming the former prison site into a popular destination with a wide variety of captivating activities.

The charming city of Lorton offers a plethora of exciting indoor and outdoor attractions that will keep you enthralled during your visit. The city has everything you need for your trip, from the Workhouse Art Center and neighborhood regional parks to the Meadowood Mountain Bike Trail and the Lorton Farmers Market.

The Top 32 Exciting Activities In Lorton, Virginia (2024)

1. Occoquan Regional Park

Visit the Occoquan Regional Park, a park that provides a beautiful retreat along the Occoquan River and other outdoor recreational activities in Lorton, VA, to start your tour of the area.

The 350-acre park is home to relics from the Civil War, a massive beehive brick kiln, remnants of a once-vibrant brickmaking business, and a Brickmakers Cafe.

You can enjoy hiking and biking on beautiful paths, have a picnic, cast a kayak or canoe for a river paddle, and grab a bite to eat at the Brickmakers Cafe at the Occoquan Regional Park.

Address: 9751 Ox Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.

2. Pohick Church

Visiting Pohick Church, dubbed the “Mother Church of Northern Virginia” due to the participation of notable people like George Washington and George Mason on the church vestry, is a great Sunday activity for Christians in Lorton, VA.

Established in 1732, the church welcomes guests to partake in traditional worship, examine the building’s extensive history and architectural design, and unwind in the peaceful gardens.

Address: 9301 Richmond Highway, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.

3. Lorton Farmers Market

Discovering the thriving Lorton Farmer’s Market, which offers engaging chances to interact with local sellers, is one of the special things to do in Lorton, Virginia, for children.

From homegrown fruits, veggies, and flowers to a variety of fresh eggs, baked products, honey, cider, and locally made meats and cheeses, the market delivers the best and freshest seasonal catch available.

Let’s say you are looking for delicious artisan goods, fresh, high-quality produce, and a chance to speak with local farmers in person. The Lorton Farmer’s Market ought to be on your list in that scenario.

4. Workhouse Arts

For those who enjoy the arts, there are many of enjoyable activities available in Lorton, Virginia, including the Workhouse Arts Center, a unique center for artistic expression housed within the restored structures of the renowned Lorton Reformatory.

The hidden gem showcases an exquisite collection of pieces by established and up-and-coming artists, featuring a variety of media such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and documents.

The colorful atmosphere of the Workhouse Arts Center hosts a variety of events and performances, such as art walks, comedy evenings, children’s shows, lounges, and community festivals.

Aside from the arts, the site provides shopping, dining, fitness classes, and in-depth historical information about the Lorton Correctional Complex and the fight for women’s suffrage.

5. Lucy Burns Museum

Explore the Lucy Burns Museum, a hidden gem dedicated to a significant period in American history: the fight for women’s suffrage, as one of the entertaining and instructive things to do in Lorton, VA, for everyone.

Exciting displays and artifacts, including photos, records, and artifacts, tell the story of the suffrage movement in this gallery. The stories of the women jailed in 1917 for picketing the White House are particularly compelling.

To learn more about and connect to the ongoing struggle for social justice and equality for women in modern society, visit the Lucy Burns Museum.

One of the cost-free activities in Lorton, Virginia, for people of all ages is visiting the museum’s galleries, which admission is free.

6. Pohick Bay Regional Park

Situated on the Pohick Bay shoreline, Pohick Bay Regional Park offers a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities, expansive vistas, and other distinctive family-friendly activities near Lorton, VA.

The 1,000-acre park offers a variety of water sports, five miles of hiking and biking paths, camping, picnic spaces, an 18-hole disc golf course, and mini golf.

In addition, visitors to the park can visit George Mason’s home, Gunston Hall Plantation, which is close by, and learn about the area’s history through interpretive exhibits.

Address: 6501 Pohick Bay Drive, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.

7. Escape Room Woodbridge

This weekend, there are exciting and fun activities for the whole family to do close to Lorton, VA, such as Escape Room Woodbridge, which is situated in Woodbridge, VA, approximately a 12-minute drive away.

For families and friends, the escape room attraction offers puzzle games, team-building activities, and immersive, difficult escape room themes.

Discover thrilling room adventures in Lorton that will test your ability to solve puzzles, decipher codes, and locate hints to escape rooms within time constraints. Challenge yourself and your friends.

Address: 2020 Daniel Stuart Square, Woodbridge, VA 22191, United States.

8. MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino

One of the enjoyable things to do near Lorton, VA, for adults is to explore the upscale MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino, which is tucked away in Oxon Hill, Maryland, less than 20 minutes away by car.

The facility features luxurious lodgings with breathtaking views, sumptuous furniture, contemporary conveniences, a casino with a variety of table games, slot machines, and a poker area.

Along with award-winning dining options, live entertainment such as comedy and music events, a spa and salon, and several shops and boutiques offering a wide selection of goods, the hotel and casino also have a casino.

9. Fair Winds Brewing Company

If you love wine, you should put a trip to Fair Winds Brewing Company on your list of things to do in Lorton, Virginia, this weekend. It’s a great spot to unwind and taste craft beers.

In order to satisfy a wide range of tastes and preferences, the brewery takes pride in offering a large assortment of beers produced using local, fresh ingredients from the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild.

In addition, Fair Winds Brewing Company’s taproom offers a variety of gluten-free and vegan wine blends to sample while you savor a variety of meal pairings.

10. Fountainhead Regional Park

In Lorton, Virginia, there are plenty of enjoyable activities for all ages to enjoy at Fountainhead Regional Park, an outdoor playground.

This 2,000-acre beehive offers exciting outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and horseback riding in a peaceful setting. It also boasts mountain biking.

In addition, the park has picnic areas, a thrilling miniature golf course, sweeping views of the Occoquan Reservoir, animal viewing, a marina facility, and access to the 17-mile Bull Run-Occoquan Trail.

Visitors can unwind at this lovely location, enjoy a variety of exciting activities, or take a break from the bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature in a scenic environment.

11. Pirate’s Cove Waterpark

Look no further than Pirate’s Cove Waterpark for a splash-tastic adventure. This fun-filled park offers engaging activities for visitors of all ages in Lorton, Virginia.

The waterpark, which is part of Pohick Bay Regional Park, offers a world of pirate adventures with a sizable pirate-ship construction that includes a 300-gallon dumping bucket, water slides, a large pool, a beach area, and a tot pool for toddlers.

At Pirate’s Cove Waterpark, immerse yourself and your family in the recreational offerings and create treasured moments.

12. Hidden Pond Nature Center

Visit Hidden Pond Nature Center, a great place for families looking to get outside and interact with nature, to learn about a variety of naturally unique family-friendly activities.

The nature center is nine minutes’ drive from Lorton in Springfield, Virginia. It offers beautiful forest paths, a visitor center with educational materials about the surrounding area, and live animal exhibits of the park’s resident animals.

The Hidden Pond Nature Center is one of the most intellectual things to do in Lorton, Virginia, for everyone because it provides a range of educational programs and events, such as workshops on local species and guided nature hikes.

13. Laurel Hill Golf Club

Making reservations for a tee time at the well-maintained and well-equipped Laurel Hill Golf Club is one of the many delightful things to do this weekend in Lorton, VA.

Established in 1992, the golf club offers a reasonable challenge to both experienced and inexperienced players. Stretching 7,010 yards from the back tees, this well-kept municipal 18-hole course has a 145 slope and plays to a par of 71.

In addition, Laurel Hill Golf Club provides driving instruction, lessons for players of all ages, and breathtaking views of the surroundings that are ideal for unwinding and relaxing while waiting for your

turn.

Address: 8701 Laurel Crest Drive, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.

14. George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Discover a wealth of interesting things to do close to Lorton, Virginia, for history buffs. It’s located in Washington, DC, about a 15-minute drive from Lorton, VA.

This location showcases artifacts that highlight the life and legacy of George Washington. It has gardens, a blacksmith shop, restored houses, slave quarters, and lovely paths with breath-taking Potomac River views.

To provide a fuller understanding of Washington’s life, the history of slavery at Mount Vernon, and Martha Washington’s involvement, education programs and living history demonstrations are also held.

Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mt Vernon, VA 22121, United States.

15. Mount Air Historic Site

Visit Mount Air Historic Site to learn more about Lorton’s rich past and find out what else history buffs can learn in Lorton, Virginia.

The remnants of Dennis McCarty’s 18th-century plantation home, which belonged to the illustrious McCarty family—a notable family in Virginia history—as a sheriff, justice of the piece, and representative in the Virginia House of Burgesses—are housed here.

In addition to learning about the efforts being made to piece together the site’s past, visitors to the Mount Air Historic Site can take advantage of entertaining and instructive family activities.

Address: 8600 Accotink Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.

16. Newington Heights Park

In Lorton, Virginia, Newington Heights Park is a general, family-friendly park that offers both tourists and locals a range of exciting, unusual activities.

The park has a number of facilities, such as children’s playgrounds, places to relax and sit, a paved route connecting it for 0.5 to 1 mile, garbage cans, and a large parking area.

In the friendly environment, you may engage in a variety of activities like biking, walking, running, and resting in a peaceful setting. This allows you to make enduring memories with your family.

17. Meadowood Mountain Bike Trail

Prepare yourself for some off-road excitement at Meadowood Mountain Bike Trail, a hidden gem that provides cyclists with a ton of enjoyable activities near Lorton, Virginia.

With three designated medium trails—The Boss path, Stinger, and Yard Sale—and a network of single-track trails, this beginner-friendly course is over 4.7 miles long and delivers excitement for riders of all skill levels.

Riding a bike allows you to experience the beauty of the Mason Neck peninsula, challenge yourself with different terrain and difficulties, get some exercise, and enjoy a variety of courses based on your ability level.

18. Pohick Bay Golf Club

Making a tee appointment at Pohick Bay Golf Club, a public course that provides golf fans, visitors, and locals with a thrilling yet tough golfing experience, is one of the many enjoyable things to do in Lorton, Virginia, this weekend.

Pohick Bay Golf Club was founded in 1982 and provides both novice and expert golfers with a reasonable challenge. The immaculately maintained public 18-hole golf course, which occupies a large acre, is 6,405 yards long from the back tees, has 132 slopes, and plays to a par 72.

The well-equipped golf course has practice areas where you can get ready for your round, a pro shop where you can rent, buy, or browse clubs, equipment, and golf wear, and a concession where you can get cool refreshments.

Address: 4001 Bullock Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.

19. Great Ape House

One of the exciting things to do close to Lorton, Virginia, is to explore the Great Ape House at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, which is tucked away in Washington, DC, just a 27-minute drive away.

Major elements of this attraction include gorilla armies, a natural habitat design that depicts the apes’ home, an observation of orangutan intellect, and a glimpse of amazing animals via plenty of glass partitions.

Additionally, educational displays and interactive exhibits are available at The Great Ape House to increase your understanding of these fascinating animals.

20. Pohick Bay Drive

Visiting Pohick Bay Drive, a prominent thoroughfare including a variety of recreational opportunities and historical landmarks, is one of the top activities in Lorton, Virginia, for all visitors.

Situated close to the Pohick Church, which dates back to the 1770s, this attraction offers boating, fishing, hiking, skiing, horseback riding, and camping in addition to a disc golf course and a pirate’s cove waterpark.

Discover a variety of water sports, meander along miles of gorgeous paths, or put your abilities to the test on the difficult 18-hole disc golf course as you drive down Pohick Bay Drive.

21. Tamarack Stables

Tamarack Stables, a family-run business that provides exhilarating horseback riding experiences, is a pleasant place to visit in Lorton, VA, for visitors of all ages.

This attraction offers well-groomed horses, riding trails along Pohick Creek and through woodland areas, riding instruction for all skill levels, and special pony parties complete with games and pony rides.

Tamarack Stables has everything you need, whether you’re an experienced professional rider or a complete novice.

22. Levelled W. Dupell Park

A trip to Levelle W. Dupell Park, which provides residents and tourists of all ages with outdoor activities in Lorton, Virginia, including a picturesque green space perfect for unwinding in the outdoors,.

The 28-acre park has a playground for kids, a basketball court that is always in use, a tennis court, and lots of open area for picnics and leisure.

This park has something for everyone, whether you’re searching for a relaxing day in the great outdoors, a competitive game on the courts, or a fun day with the family.

Address: 6812 Newington Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.

One of the most interesting things to do close to Lorton, Virginia, is to explore the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, which is situated in Washington, DC, about a 21-minute drive from the town.

In addition to the Wright 1903 Flyer, the Spirit of St. Louis, the Bell X-1 Glamorous Glennis, the Apollo 11 command Module Columbia, the lunar module Eagle, and the Soyuz capsule are among the famous aircraft on display at the museum.

Experiencing the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum offers a more profound understanding of aviation history, space exploration marvels, and human inventiveness.

Address: 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560, United States

24. Lincoln Memorial

Situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., and less than thirty minutes’ drive from Lorton, VA, the Lincoln Memorial is a magnificent site dedicated to honoring Abraham Lincoln, the 14th president of the United States, and is a must-see for both tourists and locals.

This attraction includes three paintings by artist Jules Guerin, a 19-foot-tall statue of Abraham Lincoln, and speeches written on the memorial’s north and south sides.

The paintings depict “Peace” on the north lunette, “Emancipation” on the east wall, and “Reunion” on the west wall.

Discovering this gem lets you reflect on Abraham Lincoln’s legacy because of the magnificent monument and words of the president, which serve as a powerful reminder of the principles upon which the United States was established.

25. George Mason’s Gunston Hall

If you’re interested in history, visiting George Mason’s Gunston Hall, the former residence of Father George Mason, ought to be at the top of your list of enjoyable and instructive things to do in Lorton, Virginia, right now.

Tucked away beside the Potomac River, this 1759-founded masterpiece features living history displays and images of the 18th century, including reenactments, everyday activities, and plantation life during the Masons’ era.

The majestic mansion, the cradle of American freedom, and a fuller understanding of the life of a Founding Father are all waiting for visitors to this attraction, which promises to be an exciting experience.

26. Washington Monument

The Washington Monument offers interesting things to do close to Lorton, Virginia, for everyone. It is situated in Washington, DC, which is 29 minutes away by car.

This 555-foot (169-meter) monument honoring the nation’s first president features an observatory platform with beautiful vistas and symbolic calligraphy commemorating significant Washington, D.C. events.

Along with unique vistas of the nation’s capital, a trip to this treasure trove gives tourists a deeper appreciation of and a greater need to respect George Washington’s role in forming the United States.

27. National Mall

One of Washington, D.C.’s largest parks is called the National Mall. symbolizes the grandeur and history of the United States, making it a must-see location for tourists visiting the country’s capital.

The mall is easily reachable from Lorton, Virginia, to Washington, D.C., in about eighteen minutes by car. Notable landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument are among the attractions, as are cutting-edge museums like the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of enjoyable, informative, and amusing things to do near Lorton, VA, at this destination, which also offers plenty of green spaces for relaxing, picnics, and other outdoor recreational activities.

28. United States Capitol

The United States Capitol, sometimes known as “The Capitol” or the Capitol Building, is a stately edifice that serves as the home of the US Congress and is situated in Washington, DC, about a 28-minute drive from Lorton, Virginia.

The Capitol Visitor Center, which offers exhibitions and tours that delve into American history, the Rotunda, the Statuary Hall, and the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers are among the attractions. Congress.

A trip to the US Capitol provides a unique chance to observe the political process in action, delve into American history, and take in the architecture and artwork of the building.

Address: United States, Washington, DC 20004.

29. National Gallery Of Art

Discover the National Gallery of Art, a treasure trove of entertaining and instructive activities close to Lorton, Virginia, for art enthusiasts. It’s situated in Washington, DC, about a 21-minute drive from Lorton, VA.

More than 150,000 paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, photos, prints, and drawings spanning the history of Western art from the Middle Ages to the present day are on display at the gallery.

In addition, the National Gallery of Art offers public activities like gallery discussions, film screenings, and lectures, as well as special exhibitions that highlight various cultures, artistic mediums, and historical eras. There is also a sculpture park.

The stunning artwork on display, as well as the opportunity to explore a variety of artistic genres and learn about Western art, all add to the engaging experience of visiting this gallery.

30. Chessie’s Big Backyard

Located approximately 15 minutes’ drive from Lorton, VA, Chessie’s Big Backyard is a fun-filled excursion that should be on your list of things to do this weekend if you’re near Lorton, VA. It’s nestled in Alexandria, VA.

This attraction, located in Franconia Park, has interactive water features, a wading pool, themed playgrounds, and a unique musical trail. It also has a splash pad with slides.

A day spent exploring, laughing, and fostering a connection with nature awaits you at Chessie’s Big Backyard.

Address: 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, VA 22310, United States.

31. IFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun

One of the interesting things to do near Lorton, VA, with family is to experience the adrenaline rush at iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun, which is only 42 minutes from Lorton to Ashbum.

The 14-foot (4.3-meter) recirculating tunnel at iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun, which opened in 2016, has a chamber height of 14.6 feet and a top speed of 171 mph (275 km/h). The vertical tunnel stimulated the skydiver’s free fall.

Even inexperienced students can safely enjoy the experience with qualified instructors. Virtual reality options can also enhance your flying experience by taking you to actual skydiving locations across the globe. It’s also a favorite among young thrill-seekers because of special training for children aged 4 to 16.

Address: 20315 Commonwealth Center Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147, United States.

32. Bowlero Annandale

One of the entertaining things to do near Lorton, VA, for people of all ages is to explore Bowlero Annandale, a trendy bowling alley and entertainment center that is tucked away in Annandale, VA, about a fifteen-minute drive from Lorton.

Classic bowling lanes, an arcade with fun games, light and tasty food options, a lively atmosphere perfect for family outings and friendly competitions are all features of the bowling hub.

A trip to Bowling Annandale guarantees to let you unwind and have a great time with loved ones while participating in friendly competitions on the lanes and replenishing your energy with delectable food and revitalizing beverages.

Address: 4245 Markham Street, Annandale, VA 22003, United States. 

33. Sky Zone Trampoline Park, Woodbridge

Sky Zone Trampoline Park, an indoor park with wall-to-wall trampolines for bouncing, flipping, and defying gravity, offers a variety of entertaining family activities close to Lorton, Virginia, and is only a 13-minute drive from Woodbridge, VA.

In addition to trampolines, this location offers a variety of other attractions like dodgeball courts, a ninja warrior course, a foam pit for soft landings, and a section reserved for younger jumpers.

No matter your age, an excursion to this charming and entertaining hub is sure to please everyone because it’s the perfect place to get some exercise, face obstacles on obstacle courses, and create lifelong memories via thrilling jumps.

34. Lorton Library

A lively hub offering a variety of book collections, resources, and programs for all ages, the Lorton Library is one of the best and most educational things to do in Lorton, VA, for everyone.

The library has over 30,000 items in its collection, including magazines, audiobooks, DVDs, and books. It also has meeting rooms, spaces for people of all ages, and quick access to the internet.

You can explore this wealth of information and resources, borrow books, take part in educational programs, or simply unwind with a good book while you’re a guest at Lorton Library.

35. Bad Axe Throwing Alexandria

One of the most interesting and unusual things to do close to Lorton, Virginia, these days is to unleash your inner warrior at Bad Axe Throwing Alexandria, an amazing axe-throwing venue, which is tucked away in Alexandria and only a half-hour’s drive from Lorton.

This hidden gem boasts 14 throwing targets to test your axe-throwing prowess, knowledgeable coaches to provide guidance, and a fully stocked bar featuring regional wines, beers, and soft drinks.

You can have an unforgettable time challenging yourself, connecting with friends, learning a new skill, and having the most fun at Bad Axe Throwing Alexandria.

36. Northern Virginia Archers, Inc.

Visitors and locals alike will find a wealth of enjoyable activities close to Lorton, Virginia, provided by Northern Virginia Archers Inc., a non-profit archery club, regardless of your level of experience—from expert to inquisitive novice.

The attraction, which is 19 minutes’ drive from Lorton to Fairfax Station, VA, has a welcoming atmosphere, a 1.5-mile 3D range with 30 IBO Rinehart targets, a 2-mile field range with 28 NFAA targets, and lessons for beginning archers.

Access to state-of-the-art facilities, involvement in educational programs, and enjoyment of recreational activities are all made possible by membership in the Northern Virginia Archers.

Address: Fairfax Station, VA 22039, USA; 10875 Hampton Road

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