Manassas VA is Rich in History and Culture

Located in Northern Virginia, Manassas VA is a city with rich history and culture. It’s home to several museums and a charming historic district, perfect for a day trip. Learn more about Turner's Service Co. here.

The Battle of Bull Run, the first major land battle of the Civil War, took place near Manassas in July 1861. The area was then a junction of the Orange and Alexandria railroads and an important supply depot for the Confederate army. It was later a strategic Union railroad junction.

In 1854, the farmers of northern Fauquier County partnered with the merchants of Alexandria to build the Manassas Gap railroad. It crossed the Blue Ridge through Thoroughfare Gap, and drew not only Fauquier County trade but Shenandoah Valley business as well.

Manassas Junction became the center of the local economy, and was a significant point on the main line from Alexandria to Washington, D.C. It was also the starting point for the Orange and Alexandria line south to Fredericksburg.

After the Civil War, many northerners settled in the area. The inexpensive housing and relatively short commute to the capital made it a popular destination for workers from across the country.

It is now a growing and vibrant city, with a number of new businesses opening in the downtown area. It has a thriving arts community and the acclaimed Manassas National Battlefield Park preserves sites from the two Civil War battles.

There is a lot to see in Manassas, so it’s best to plan your visit carefully. Some of the most popular attractions include the Manassas Museum, the Hylton Performing Arts Center and Ben Lomond Historic Site.

The town is also known for its beautiful river houses. They have been featured in television shows and movies, including Stephen Stills’ album Manassas and a season 6 episode of Discovery Channel’s A Haunting called Marked by Evil.

Old Town, located in the heart of the historic district, is a great spot for shopping and dining. It features a quaint village square and numerous specialty stores, restaurants and cafes.

It’s also easy to reach from the DC metro via the Manassas Train Station, which is serviced by the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and three Amtrak routes.

There are several good hotels in the area, and many restaurants and nightclubs. The city is undergoing a revitalization, and it’s a great place to live or to visit for a weekend.

The Manassas Museum is an excellent place to learn more about the Civil War, local history and local culture. It has a driving tour of the battleground and offers walking trails throughout the site.

In addition, there are a few historic homes to tour. The Manassas Historical House and the Tudor Hall Farm are excellent examples of antebellum architecture.

A large park is located nearby, and the Hylton Performing Arts Center hosts music and theater performances. The area is also home to a number of small museums, such as the George Mason University Museum of Art and the Old Manassas Museum.