36 Best & Fun Things To Do In Lorton, VA
As a local or tourist looking for fun activities in Lorton, Virginia, here comes the climax of your searches. Join us as we explore a complete list of the top 36 best and fun things to do in Lorton, VA, making sure you maximize time in this beautiful location.
Nestled in Fairfax County, Virginia, Lorton is popularly regarded as the site of the previous Lorton Reformatory, a correctional facility spanning from 1910 to 2010. The city has since experienced important development, converting the former prison ground into a must-visit for diverse eye-catching attractions.
Lorton is a picturesque city with numerous fun, educational, and entertaining outdoor and indoor attractions that excite your visit. From the community regional parks and the Workhouse Art Center to the Meadowood Mountain Bike Trail and the Lorton Farmers Market, the city has got your trip covered.
36 Best and Fun Things To Do In Lorton, VA (2024)
1. Occoquan Regional Park
Begin your Lorton exploration with a visit to the Occoquan Regional Park, a beehive that offers a breathtaking getaway along the Occoquan River and other open-air recreational things to do in Lorton, VA.
Spanning 350 acres, the park features leftover parts of the Civil War weapons, a gigantic beehive brick kiln and remains of a once-thriving brickmaking industry and a Brickmakers Cafe.
At the Occoquan Regional Park, you can explore activities like hiking and biking along scenic trails, cast your kayak or canoe for a river paddle, picnic, or grab a tasty bite at the Brickmakers Cafe.
Address: 9751 Ox Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
2. Pohick Church
As a Christian, one of the fun things to do in Lorton, VA, on Sunday is to visit Pohick Church, well-known as the ‘Mother Church of Northern Virginia’ because of the presence of key figures like George Washington and George Mason on the church vestry.
Founded in 1732, the church allows visitors to observe traditional worship services, explore the church’s rich history and architecture, and relax in the tranquil surroundings on the church grounds.
Address: 9301 Richmond Highway, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
3. Lorton Farmers Market
Exploring Lorton Farmer’s Market, a vibrant locale with captivating opportunities to relate with local vendors, is one of the unique things to do in Lorton, VA, for families.
The market offers the best and freshest seasonal catch ranging from homegrown fruits, vegetables, and flowers to an array of fresh eggs, baked goods, honey, cider, and locally-produced meats and cheeses.
So, suppose you’re searching for fresh, high-quality produce, tasty artisan goods, and an opportunity to get face-to-face interactions with local farmers. In that case, Lorton Farmer’s Market should make your checklist.
Address: 8994 Potomac Bend, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
4. Workhouse arts
Workhouse Arts Center, a special hub for creative expressions nestled within the rehabilitated buildings of the famous Lorton Reformatory, offers a plethora of fun things to do in Lorton, VA, for art enthusiasts.
The treasure trove features a perfect blend of works from professional and emerging artists displaying their works in different media like painting, sculpture, ceramics, and documents.
Workhouse Arts Center also provides an array of performances and events, including lounges, children’s shows, comedy nights, art walks, and community festivals in a lively environment.
Outside the arts, the attraction offers deep insights into the history of the Lorton Correctional Complex and the struggle for women’s suffrage, fitness classes, dining, and shopping options.
Address: 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
5. Lucy Burns Museum
One of the fun and educational things to do in Lorton, VA, for everyone, is to explore the Lucy Burns Museum, a hidden gem devoted to a key point in America’s history: the struggle for women’s suffrage.
This gallery features thrilling exhibits and artifacts like photographs, documents, and artifacts that explain the story of the suffrage movement, especially of women arrested for picketing the White House in 1917.
You can explore the Lucy Burns Museum to gain a deeper understanding and relate to the consistent fight for equality and social justice for women in today’s society.
Admissions into the museum galleries are free, making it one of the free things to do in Lorton, VA, for all ages.
Address: 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA 22079, United States
6. Pohick Bay Regional Park
For outdoor enthusiasts, Pohick Bay Regional Park, sitting on the shores of Pohick Bay, presents an array of recreational activities, panoramic views, and other unique things to do in Lorton, VA, for families.
Spanning 1,000 acres, the park features diverse water activities, over five miles of hiking and biking trails, campsites, picnic areas, 18-hole disc golf, and a game of mini golf.
Guests to the park can also explore the area’s history through expository exhibits or visit the nearby Gunston Hall Plantation, the abode of George Mason.
Address: 6501 Pohick Bay Drive, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
7. Escape room Woodbridge
Located in Woodbridge, VA, about a 12-minute drive from Lorton, Escape Room Woodbridge offers thrilling and family-friendly things to do near Lorton, VA, this weekend.
The escape room attraction presents immersively designed and challenging escape room themes, puzzle games, and team-building experiences for families and friends.
As you visit Lorton, challenge yourself and your friends with exciting room adventures, testing your puzzle-solving skills, crack codes, and find hints to escape rooms within set time limits.
Address:Â 2020 Daniel Stuart Square, Woodbridge, VA 22191, United States.
Exploring other attractions near Lorton, Virginia?? Why not check out some fun things to do in Martinsville, VA, and fun things to do in Luray, VA?
8. MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino
Nestled in Oxon Hill, Maryland, less than a 20-minute drive from Lorton, VA, exploring MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino, an exclusive destination, is one of the fun things to do near Lorton, VA, for adults.
The attraction offers elegant accommodations with stunning views, plush furnishings, modern amenities, a casino with diverse table games, slot machines, and a poker room.
The hotel and casino also feature award-winning dining options, live entertainment, including live music and comedy shows, a spa and salon, and different shops and boutiques with a wide range of products.
Address: 101 MGM National Avenue, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, United States.
9. Fair Winds Brewing Company
As a wine enthusiast, a visit to Fair Winds Brewing Company, an ideal place to take a chill and enjoy craft bears, should make your bucket list of things to do in Lorton, VA, this weekend.
The brewery prides itself on a vast selection of beers made from fresh and local ingredients from the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
Fair Winds Brewing Company also allows you to taste diverse vegan-friendly and gluten-reduced wine blends in their taproom, while you enjoy diverse food pairings.
Address: 7000 Newington Road Suites K & L, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
10. Fountainhead Regional Park
Fountainhead Regional Park, a playground for outdoor adventurers, offers an array of entertaining things to do in Lorton, VA, for everyone.
Sprawling 2,000 acres of land, this beehive features thrilling activities, including mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding, boating, boating, and fishing experiences in a tranquil environment.
The park also offers panoramic vistas of the Occoquan Reservoir, wildlife watching, picnics, a fun miniature golf course, a marina building, and access to a 17-mile Bull Run-Occoquan Trail.
Visitors can take a break from the hustles and bustles of city life and reconnect with nature in a picturesque setting, enjoy diverse thrilling activities, or just relax at this beautiful locale
Address: 10878 Hampton Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, United States.
11. Pirate’s Cove waterpark
If you’re seeking a splash-tastic adventure, look no further than Pirate’s Cove Waterpark, a fun-filled park offering fun and entertaining things to do in Lorton, VA, for all ages.
Located within the Pohick Bay Regional Park, the waterpark features a world of pirate adventures with a large pirate-ship structure complete with a 300-gallon dumping bucket, water slides, a spacious tot pool for kids, a large pool, and a beach area.
Get yourself and your family immersed in the recreational activities provided at Pirate’s Cove Waterpark, and create unforgettable memories.
Address:Â 6501 Pohick Bay Drive, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
12. Hidden Pond Nature Center
Discover an array of naturally unique things to do near Lorton, VA, for families when you visit Hidden Pond Nature Center, an ideal destination for those seeking connection with the local environment.
With a 9-minute drive from Lorton to Springfield, VA, the nature center features scenic woodland trails, a visitor center with information about the local environment, and live animal exhibits of the park’s resident animals.
Hidden Pond Nature Center also offers various educational programs and events, from guided nature walks to workshops on local wildlife, making it one of the academic things to do in Lorton, VA, for everyone.
Address:Â 8511 Greeley Blvd, West Springfield, VA 22152, United States
13. Laurel Hill Golf Club
One of the many enjoyable activities this weekend in Lorton, VA is to schedule a tee time at Laurel Hill Golf Club, a well-equipped and standard golf resort.
Founded in 1992, the golf club presents a fair challenge for seasoned and novice golfers. Covering a large area, the well-maintained municipal 18-hole course stretches 7,010 from the back tees, featuring a 145 slope and playing to a par of 71.
Laurel Hill Golf Club also offers stunning views of the surroundings perfect for relaxation and unwinding while awaiting your play turn, a driving turn, and classes for players of all ages.
Address:Â 8701 Laurel Crest Drive, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
14. George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Located in Washington DC, about a 15-minute drive from Lorton, VA, unearth a plethora of unique things to do near Lorton, VA, for history enthusiasts.
This destination displays works showcasing the life and legacy of George Washington, featuring rehabilitated mansions, gardens, a blacksmith shop, slave quarters, and beautiful trails giving breathtaking views of the Potomac River.
Education programs and living history demonstrations are also hosted to give a deeper understanding of Washington’s life, the history of slavery at Mt Vernon, and the role of Martha Washington.
Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mt Vernon, VA 22121, United States.
15. Mount Air Historic Site
Catch a glimpse into the rich history of Lorton, and other educational things to do in Lorton, VA, for history enthusiasts when you visit Mount Air Historic Site.
This attraction houses the remains of the 18th-century plantation house belonging to Dennis McCarty, a sheriff, justice of the Piece, and a representative of the Virginia House of Burgesses from the McCarty family, a famous family in Virginia’s history
Visitors to the Mount Air Historic Site stand to gain a historical connection to the past, learn about the efforts to unravel the site’s history and explore fun and educational experiences for families.
Address:Â 8600 Accotink Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
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16. Newington Heights Park
Newington Heights Park is a general and family-friendly park that presents visitors and locals with a variety of fun and unique things to do in Lorton, VA.
The park houses a variety of amenities, including playgrounds for kids, seating areas for relaxation, a paved trail connection ranging from 0.5 to 1 mile, trash cans, and a spacious parking space.
You can enjoy different activities like walking, running, biking, and relaxing in a tranquil setting, giving room for creating lasting memories with your family in the welcoming atmosphere.
Address:Â 8590 Heller Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
17. Meadowood mountain bike trail
Get ready for some off-road thrills at Meadowood Mountain Bike Trail, a hidden gem offering a plethora of fun things to do in Lorton, VA, for cyclists
This beginner-friendly trail spanning over 4.7 miles offers three set medium trails – The Boss trail, stinger, and Yard Sale – alongside a web of single-track trails., offering thrills for all skill levels.
As a rider, you can enjoy an array of trails depending on your skill level, get some exercise, challenge yourself with the varying terrain and obstacles, and get soaked in the beauty of the Mason Neck peninsula.
Address:Â 10100 Gunston Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
18. Pohick Bay Golf Club
One of the numerous fun things to do in Lorton, VA, this weekend is to book a tee time at Pohick Bay Golf Club, a public course offering a challenging yet exciting golfing experience for golf enthusiasts, tourists, and locals alike.
Established in 1982, Pohick Bay Golf Club offers experienced and inexperienced golfers a fair challenge. Sitting on an expansive acre, the neatly groomed public 18-hole golf course spans 6,405 yards from the back tees with 132 slopes and plays to a par 72.
The well-equipped golf course features practice facilities to warm up before your round, a pro shop where clubs, equipment, and golf apparel can be rented, bought, or explored, and a concession to make available refreshing drinks.
Address: 4001 Bullock Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
19. Great ape house
Nestled in Washington DC, a 27-minute drive away from Lorton, VA, an exploration of the Great Ape House at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, is one of the adventurous things to do near Lorton, VA.
A view of awesome animals through ample glass partitions, a natural environment design depicting the apes’ home, gorilla troops, and an observation of Orangutan intelligence are major features of this attraction.
The Great Ape House also has interactive exhibits and educational displays to promote your knowledge of these intriguing creatures.
Address: 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20008, United States.
20. Pohick Bay Drive
A visit to Pohick Bay Drive, a major artery with different recreational spots and historical sites, is among the best things to do in Lorton, VA, for everyone.
Located near the 1770s-established Pohick Church, the attraction features the Pirate’s Cove Waterpark, a disc golf course, and supports activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, skiing, horseback riding, and camping.
As you explore Pohick Bay Drive, you can explore many water activities, explore miles of picturesque trails, or test your skills on the challenging 18-hole disc golf course.
21. Tamarack Stables
One of the fun things to do in Lorton, VA, for all ages is embark on an adventure to Tamarack Stables, a family-owned and operated attraction, offering thrilling experiences of horseback riding.
This attraction features well-maintained horses, riding trails through wooded paths and along Pohick Creek, riding lessons to cater to diverse experience levels and special pony parties with pony rides and games.
Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a seasoned professional rider, Tamarack Stables got you covered.
Address: 9905 Old Colchester Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
22. Levelled W. Dupell Park
A visit to Levelle W. Dupell Park, offering a scenic green area ideal for relaxing amidst nature and other outdoor things to do in Lorton, VA, for visitors and locals of all ages.
Spanning 28 acres, the park features a playground to keep children entertained, an active basketball court, a tennis court, and ample green space for picnics and relaxation.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day with the family, a friendly game on the courts, or a peaceful escape in nature, this park caters to different interests.
Address:Â 6812 Newington Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
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23. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Located in Washington DC, about a 21-minute drive from Lorton, VA, exploring the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is one of the unique things to do near Lorton, VA, for everyone.
The museum features iconic aircraft like 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.
A visit to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum helps you gain a deeper knowledge of the history of flights, the wonders of space exploration, and the creativity of human achievement.
Address: 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560, United States
24. Lincoln Memorial
Nestled in Washington D.C., with a less than 30-minute drive from Lorton, VA, the Lincoln Memorial, a grand landmark that honors the 14th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, is a must-visit for visitors and residents.
This attraction features a 19-foot-tall statue of Abraham Lincoln, speeches inscribed on the north and south walls of the memorial, and three murals by the artist Jules Guerin.
The murals represent ‘Reunion’ on the west wall, ‘Emancipation’ on the east wall, and ‘Peace’ on the north lunette.
An exploration of this treasure allows you to reminisce on the heritage of Abraham Lincoln, as the majestic monument and Lincoln’s words act as a strong reminder of the grounds on which the United States was founded.
Address:Â 2 Lincoln Memorial Circus NW, Washington, DC 20002, United States.
25. George Mason’s Gunston Hall
As a history enthusiast, a journey to George Mason’s Gunston Hall, the once-upon-a-time home of Father George Mason, should make your bucket list of fun and educational things to do in Lorton, VA, today.
Nestled along the Potomac River, this 1759-established masterpiece showcases living history illustrations and exhibits of the 18th Century through reenactments, daily routines, and life on a plantation during the Mason’s time
Visitors to this attraction can enjoy a thrilling experience, as they stand to gain a deeper understanding of the life of a Founding Father, see the birthplace of American freedom, and appreciate the grand estate.
Address:Â 10709 Gunston Road, Lorton, VA 22079, United States.
26. Washington Monument
The Washington Monument, located in Washington DC, a 29-minute drive from Lorton, VA, presents insightful things to do near Lorton, VA, for everyone.
As a 555-foot (169-meter) tribute to America’s First President, this attraction offers an observatory deck for scenic views and symbolic writings marking important events in Washington D.C.
An adventure to this treasure trove endows visitors with great understanding and the need to appreciate George Washington’s part in shaping the United States, coupled with special views of the nation’s capital.
Address:Â 2 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20024, United States.
27. National Mall
The National Mall, a sprawling park situated in Washington D.C. represents the history and magnificence of the United States and this is a must-visit destination for visitors touring the nation’s capital.
Accessible within an 18-minute drive from Lorton, Virginia to Washington D.C., the mall’s features range from legendary monuments like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial to state-of-the-art museums like the National Air and Space Museum and National Museum of Natural History among others.
The attraction also provides abundant green spaces to facilitate relaxation, picnics, and other outdoor recreational activities, giving visitors a blend of fun, entertaining, and educational things to do near Lorton, VA.
Address:Â Washington, DC, United States.
28. United States Capitol
Often referred to as ‘The Capitol’ or Capitol Building’, the United States Capitol is a grand structure that acts as the seat of the United States Congress located in Washington DC, about a 28-minute drive away from Lorton, VA.
The attraction features the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers, the Rotunda, the Statuary Hall, and the Capitol Visitor Center, which provides exhibits and tours that explore the history of the U.S. Congress.
A visit to the United States Capitol offers a special opportunity to witness the American democratic process, explore American history, and appreciate the design and art of the Capitol.
Address:Â Washington, DC 20004, United States.
29. National Gallery of Art
Located in Washington DC, about a 21-minute drive from Lorton, VA, explore the National Gallery of Art, a treasure trove offering fun and educational things to do near Lorton, VA, for art lovers.
The gallery features an extensive collection of over 150,000 paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, photographs, prints, and drawings that cover the history of Western art from the Middle Ages to date.
The National Gallery of Art also features special exhibitions displaying different cultures, art forms, and historical periods, a sculpture garden, and public programs, including lectures, gallery talks, and film screenings.
An exploration of this gallery offers an enriching experience for its guests as they are allowed to explore Western art, explore diverse artistic styles, and get inspired by the beauty of the artwork on display.
Address:Â Washington, DC 20004, United States.
30. Chessie’s Big Backyard
Nestled in Alexandria, VA, about a 15-minute drive from Lorton, VA, a visit to Chessie’s Big Backyard presents a fun-filled adventure and should make your bucket list of things to do near Lorton, VA, this weekend.
This Franconia-park-situated attraction features themed playgrounds, a splash pad with slides, a wading pool, interactive water features, and a special musical trail.
A day at Chessie’s Big Backyard promises extraordinary adventures with laughter, exploration, and an opportunity to connect with nature.
Address: 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, VA 22310, United States.
31. iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun
Just 42 minutes from Lorton to Ashbum, experiencing the adrenaline rush at iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun is one of the unique things to do near Lorton, VA, with family.
Opened in 2016, the iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Loudoun is a 14-foot (4.3 m) recirculating tunnel with a 48-foot (14.6 m) chamber height and a top speed of 171 mph (275 km/h). The vertical tunnel stimulated the free fall of skydiving.
With professional instructors, even first-timers can safely enjoy the experience. You can also elevate your flying experience with virtual reality options that transport you to real skydiving locations worldwide. Special training for kids aged 4–16 also makes it a favorite among young adrenaline junkies.
Address:Â 20315 Commonwealth Center Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147, United States.
32. Bowlero Annandale
Nestled in Annandale, VA, about a 15-minute drive from Lorton, Exploring Bowlero Annandale, a trendy bowling alley and entertainment center, is one of the fun things to do near Lorton, VA, for all ages.
The bowling hub features classic bowling lanes, an arcade with entertaining games, tasty and simple dining options, and a vibrant ambiance ideal for family jaunts and friendly contests.
A visit to Bowling Annandale vows to allow you to relax and have so much fun with friends and family as you enjoy some friendly competitions on the lanes, and refuel with delicious food and refreshing drinks.
Address:Â 4245 Markham Street, Annandale, VA 22003, United States.Â
33. Sky Zone Trampoline Park, Woodbridge
With a 13-minute drive from Lorton to Woodbridge, VA, Sky Zone Trampoline Park, an indoor park with wall-to-wall trampolines for bouncing, flipping, and flouting gravity offers an array of fun things to do near Lorton, VA, for families.
This destination boasts not just trampolines, but also an array of attractions like a ninja warrior course, a foam pit for soft landings, dodgeball courts, and an area devoted to younger jumpers.
An adventure to this lovely and fun hub guarantees fun for all, age notwithstanding as it is an ideal destination to burn energy, get challenged on obstacle paths, and make long-lasting memories through exciting jumps.
Address:Â 14555 Potomac Mills Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, United States.
34. Lorton Library
One of the best and most educational things to do in Lorton, VA, for everyone is to visit the Lorton Library, a lively hub presenting various collections of books, resources, and programs for all ages.
The Library houses a large collection of over 30,000 items, consisting of books, audiobooks, DVDs, and magazines, devoted areas to cater to people of diverse age grades, meeting rooms, and fast internet access.
As a guest at Lorton Library, you get the opportunity to explore this treasure trove of knowledge and resources, borrow books, participate in educational programs, or just relax with a good book to read.
Address: 9520 Richmond Highway, Lorton, VA 22079, United States
35. Bad Axe Throwing Alexandria
Nestled in Alexandria, about a 30-minute drive from Lorton, exhibiting the might of your inner warrior at Bad Axe Throwing Alexandria, an absolute axe-throwing venue, is one of the entertaining and unique things to do near Lorton, VA, today.
This treasure prides itself in 14 throwing targets for testing your axe-throwing skills, experienced coaches to offer instructions, and a fully stocked bar with locally made beers, wines, and soft drinks.
Bad Axe Throwing Alexandria provides you with a memorable way to chill, bond with friends, challenge yourself, and learn a new skill while exploiting the best of fun.
Address:Â 617 S Pickett Street Unit F, Alexandria, VA 22304, United States.
36. Northern Virginia Archers Inc.
Regardless of your status as a professional archer or a curious beginner, Northern Virginia Archers Inc., a non-profit archery club offers a plethora of fun things to do near Lorton, VA, for visitors and residents alike.
With a 19-minute drive from Lorton to Fairfax Station, VA, the attraction features a friendly atmosphere, a 2-mile field range with 28 NFAA targets, a 1.5-mile 3D range with 30 IBO Rinehart targets, and tutorials for inexperienced archers.
Joining the Northern Virginia Archers allows access to cutting-edge facilities, participation in educational programs, and enjoyment of recreational activities.
Address:Â 10875 Hampton Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, United States
Plan Your Trip To Lorton, VA
Lorton, Virginia, is a unique haven of adventure, offering a perfect blend of fun, entertainment, learning, and culture.
Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, each experience draws you deeper into the heart of this picturesque town, unveiling its rich history, artistic expression, and strong sense of community.
So, lace up your shoes, embrace the cultural nuances, savor the flavors, and let Lorton delight your senses in ways only this unique city can.
