Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bristow, VA to Reston, VA

Driving through the suburbs of northern Virginia might seem mundane and uneventful, but there are hidden gems along the way that are worth visiting. This article will highlight five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Bristow, Virginia to Reston, Virginia. The journey covers a distance of approximately 50 miles and takes around an hour on a good day.

Halfway Point: Chantilly, VA

Before we start exploring the unexpected stops along the way, let's talk about the halfway point of this trip: Chantilly, Virginia. This bustling suburb is home to the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. This museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, but even those with a mild interest in the history of flight will find plenty to enjoy. The centerpiece of the museum is the Space Shuttle Discovery, which is suspended above the atrium floor. There are also dozens of other aircraft, including a Concorde and an SR-71 Blackbird, as well as interactive exhibits and simulators that allow visitors to experience what it's like to fly a plane or a space shuttle.

1. Eavesdrop Brewery

Just a few minutes' drive from Chantilly is Eavesdrop Brewery, a family-owned craft brewery that has quickly established itself as a local favorite. The brewery's taproom is cozy and welcoming, and their outdoor patio is the perfect spot to relax on a sunny day. Eavesdrop's beer selection changes regularly, but their IPAs and stouts are consistently excellent. They also offer a variety of snacks and light bites, but the standout food item is their pretzel with beer cheese dip.

2. The Winery at Bull Run

If you're in the mood for wine instead of beer, take a short detour from the main road to visit The Winery at Bull Run. This winery is located on the site of a Civil War battlefield, and the owners have gone to great lengths to preserve the historical significance of the land. In addition to offering a variety of wines, the winery also has a tasting room that features local artwork and live music on weekends. Visitors can also purchase charcuterie boards or bring their own picnic to enjoy on the winery's spacious lawn.

3. Lake Fairfax Park

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, Lake Fairfax Park is a perfect stop. This 476-acre park has a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, fishing, and swimming. The real highlight of the park, however, is its waterpark, The Water Mine. This Old West-themed waterpark has slides, tunnels, and a lazy river that winds through the park. There's even a "gold rush" section for younger children. When hunger strikes, grab a slice of pizza or an ice cream cone at the waterpark's snack bar.

4. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Just a few miles from Lake Fairfax is Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, a 95-acre oasis of natural beauty. The gardens are home to a variety of different plant species, as well as several streams, lakes, and waterfalls. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the paths or pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots. The gardens are particularly stunning in the fall, when the leaves change color, or in the spring, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

5. Microgreens & More Farm Market

On the outskirts of Reston lies Microgreens & More Farm Market, a small but charming market that sells locally grown produce, honey, and herbs. The market is run by a husband-and-wife team, both of whom are passionate about sustainable farming. In addition to their fresh produce, they also sell prepared foods like quiches and soups. They also offer gardening classes and workshops on topics like composting and beekeeping.

After experiencing all the unexpected stops along the way from Bristow to Reston, it's safe to say that this road trip is much more than just a drive through the suburbs. With plenty of opportunities for food, drink, outdoor activities, and learning, this journey is perfect for anyone looking for a day trip or a weekend adventure. So pack a bag, grab some friends, and hit the road - you won't be disappointed.