8 Things To Do In Manassas, VA

Manassas is located in Northern Virginia, located 32 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. The town is known for its rich history and was the site of two important Civil War battles. Today, Manassas is full of fun attractions to check out. 

Here are 8 fun things to do in Manassas, VA and the surrounding area. 

Top 8 Things to do in Manassas, VA 

1. Visit the Manassas National Battlefield Park

6511 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA

If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss the amazing Manassas National Battlefield Park. Two Civil War battles occurred at this location. One in 1861, and the other in 1862. Today, visitors can explore many key historic sites and outdoor exhibits on their own or through guided tours, and the visitor center and interpretive center provide detailed information about the park’s history. You’ll also find a network of hiking trails and preserved natural areas. If you’re looking for things to do in Manassas that combine history, nature, and exercise, the Manassas National Battlefield Park has you covered. 

2. See A Show at the Hylton Performing Arts Center

10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas, VA

Located on the campus of George Mason University, the Hylton Performing Arts Center is one of the largest and most renowned arts venues in the area. The theater offers diverse programming that includes music, dance, and theater performances. They also host an affordable family series each season that is suitable for children. George Mason University students are eligible for free tickets. 

3. Go Ice Skating At Harris Pavilion

9201 Center Street, Manassas, VA

This is one of the best things to do in Old Town Manassas. The Harris Pavilion hosts ice skating in the winter from November through February, weather permitting. The beautiful scenery of historic downtown creates the perfect atmosphere for ice skating. In the summer, the Pavilion hosts free concerts in a variety of music styles. The Pavilion is also available to rent for events and is a popular spot for local weddings. 

4. Visit Paradise Springs Winery

13219 Yates Ford Road, Clifton, VA

Northern Virginia is an up-and-coming wine region, and one of the closest wineries to Manassas is the Paradise Springs Winery. This winery is set in the stunning countryside near the Bull Run River. They host a variety of tastings throughout the week, and visitors can also take tours of the entire vineyard and production facilities on the weekends. Additionally, they have a food truck, live music, and other events throughout the summer season. 

5. Explore Bull Run Regional Park

7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville, VA

Located just outside of Manassas, Bull Run Regional Park is a nature lover’s dream. It is also one of many fun things to do with kids in Manassas, VA. The park is full of walking trails and sports fields and has a large campground and rentable cottages. For kids, there’s a huge water park open during the summer as well as a large playground. During the holiday season, visitors can take in the beauty of the Bull Run Festival of Lights. 

6. Visit The Autobahn Indoor Speedway

8300 Sudley Road A5, Manassas, VA

If you’re looking for something daring to do in Manassas, be sure to check out the Autobahn Indoor Speedway at the Manassas Mall. The speedway offers electric go-kart racing at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour and junior go-kart racing at slower speeds for kids. The speedway also offers axe throwing sessions and even has its own axe throwing league for those feeling competitive. 

7. Explore Old Town Manassas

Old Town Manassas is full of amazing dining and shopping options to choose from. For a fun day out, stroll around the town to take in its historic charm and check out the amazing businesses that call this area home. There are many different cuisines to choose from, whether it’s Italian at Carmello’s, Mexican at Mariachis, Greek at Katerina’s, or classic American food at Battle Street Bistro. Craft beer lovers will want to stop by the Public House Kitchen & Brewery or the Sinistral Brewing Company. 

For shopping options, you’ll find antique stores, art galleries, snack shops, clothing boutiques, and more, all with Manassas’s signature historic charm. The Manassas Farmer’s Market is also hosted on Thursdays and Saturdays in Old Town during the summer and is a great place to pick up local produce. 

8. The Manassas Museum

9431 West Street, Manassas, VA

The Manassas Museum is located in Old Town and has exhibits showcasing the town’s rich history from the Civil War to today. While the museum is currently being renovated, it is scheduled to open in 2023, when they will celebrate the town’s 150th birthday. For now, visitors can check out the museum store in the nearby Manassas Station depot. 

Explore Manassas with Southern Management

With so much natural beauty and fascinating history, there are plenty of fun things to do in Manassas. If you’re thinking of moving to Manassas, Southern Management is here to help. We have apartments for rent throughout Northern Virginia and Maryland that make trips to Manassas easy and accessible. Contact us to learn more about our properties near Manassas!