Looking for some fun things to do in Manassas, Virginia?

Even though Manassas may not be as well-known as other American cities, don’t be deceived; it has many unique attractions for you to explore.

Manassas is a lesser-known but lovely up-and-coming tourist attraction, and it is worthwhile to explore. You might be shocked by some of the unusual activities and locations you can discover in this undiscovered location.

It is possible to schedule a short detour here while en route to Baltimore or Washington, D.C. You might want to go back one day to take a break and unwind in Manassas.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Manassas, VA

Things to Do in Manassas, VA

1. Splashdown Waterpark

This magnificent outdoor waterpark, the largest in Northern Virginia, is ideal for you if you happen to visit in the summer and want to cool off.

With a 13-acre footprint, the SplashDown Waterpark in Manassas, Virginia, has space for all visitors.

The Prince William County Department of Parks and Recreation manages the Park. The facility includes a leisure pool, an activity pool, eight water slides that are 70 feet tall, tropical twister slides, a cannonball, and a lily pad walk.

Additionally, it offers a Lazy River (a 770-foot-long whirlpool that can accommodate inner tubes with one or two seats) and an Interactive Children’s Play Area.

Additionally, the Splashdown water park features excellent dining options like BBQ and Dippin’ Dots. You won’t have to search for a place to eat after a fun day. To hold events, groups and organizations can rent a pavilion.

When a group registers in advance, discounted tickets may be made available to them. You’re in for a ton of fun!

Location: 7500 Ben Lomond Park Drive Manassas, VA 20109, USA

2. Jukebox Diner

Jukebox Diner in Manassas, Virginia, is the ideal location to go if you want to eat any time of day in a 50s-style setting.

The diner has crimson booth seating and an ample counter with chairs, giving it a classic oldies vibe. All the cuisines served at Jukebox Diner are fresh and of the highest caliber.

Additionally, a variety of traditional American diner fare is available, as well as international ingredients such as Italian entrees, Middle Eastern, Greek, and European foods that are combined to create unique dishes like shish-tawook, falafel, or chicken all piccata.

This retro diner’s menu includes items like grilled chicken salad, shrimp and chicken, omelets, and pancakes. Don’t forget to taste their organic milkshakes for the icing on the 50s diner experience. You can order takeaway if you don’t want to eat in.

This outstanding restaurant provides not only excellent meals in a charming setting but also at affordable costs. One of the top things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to sample the food at this establishment.

Location: 8637 Sudley Road, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

3. The Cannon Branch Fort

Another significant historical location in Manassas, Virginia, is the Cannon Branch Fort, a rectangular earthwork fort in the western part of the city that is thought to have been built by federal forces.

It is one of only two Manassas earthworks still standing.

Before European colonization, Native Americans first resided on the mountaintop above the Cannon Branch for an extended period.

Hunting was the main activity of the early hunters, along with gathering fruits, nuts, roots, and other foods.

With guns positioned over a neighboring hill, Fort Cannon was constructed to watch over the crucial Cannon Branch trestle bridge on the Orange & Alexandria Railroad.

Every day from early morning to late evening, this attraction is open. There is no fee to enter the location.

Location: 10611 Gateway Boulevard, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

4. Freedom Museum

In the main terminal of the Manassas Regional Airport sits the intriguing Freedom Museum. The Freedom Museum showcases Manassas, Virginia’s history, culture, and traditions, particularly those from the 20th century.

Several exhibits are on display at the museum, including images, relics, and other memorabilia from Manassas and military people from World War I to the present. The Smithsonian-affiliated Museum is actively soliciting money for a permanent building apart from the airport.

Individuals and groups can take guided tours of the Freedom Museum. Visitors may, however, take self-guided tours. Currently, there is no fee to enter the museum. The experience of exploring this museum promises to be both educational and exciting.

Location: 10600 Harry J. Parrish Boulevard, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

5. Heritage Brewing Co

The first craft brewery in Manassas opened in 2013 and served roughly 12 different types of beer. Two seasoned brewers who wanted to make flavorful beers founded the business.

The brewers have expanded their creativity and produced 400 different beer varieties. Despite its growth, the brewery’s staff remained small and loyal. Heritage Brewing Co. has collaborated with The Unquiet Professional since its inception, helping to support the military community to which the company’s founders initially devoted their life.

The Heritage Brewing Company also roasts and brews coffee in addition to producing beer.

Visitors can sample brews from one of the company’s 16 taps in its tasting area, which features flagship beers, cold brew coffees, and weekly experimental beers.

The Smoke food truck division serves fresh barbecue during the summer at the business.

One of the most incredible things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to sample the most recent Heritage Brewing Co. beer because of its inventiveness.

Location: 9436 Center Point Lane, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

6. The Creative Brush Studio

Manassas’ natural beauty makes it the ideal location for artists to live and find inspiration. One of the best things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to explore The Creative Brush Studio, a distinctive art gallery, and its creations.

The fantastic gallery is owned by the mother-daughter team of Mary Reilley and Christine Raymond. They display outstanding works of art and work out of the gallery.

Visitors can commission portraits and other works of art while also seeing the painters create historical scenes and landscapes in various painting techniques.

The gallery’s operating hours fluctuate because it doubles as an artist’s workspace, depending on whether the artists are producing new work or looking for inspiration.

Visitors are advised to stop by between Wednesday and Saturday when staff members are typically present.

Alternatively, you can enter to see the artwork or observe the artist at work if the lights are on or the door is open. Those who enjoy art will love this place.

Location: 8951 Center Street, Manassas, Virginia 20110, USA

7. Okra Cajun-Creole

It’s no joke that there’s always something to eat in Manassas. Okra Cajun-Creole, a well-known restaurant in Manassas for twenty years, is one of the pleasant locations to eat. During the summer, patrons can dine outside while listening to live music on Battle Street.

Customers can partake in some of their delectable appetizers or cocktails during happy hour or order drinks to go with their meals, all of which have authentic Creole flavors. The eatery offers a variety of Cajun classics, including dirty rice, crawfish popcorn, jambalaya, alligator bites, shrimp and grits, and more.

Okra’s Cajun Creole also offers sweets, including crème Brulee, bananas foster, and cranberry bread pudding with whiskey sauce, in addition to traditional Cajun fare. One of the top things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to sample one of their delicious dishes.

Location: 9110 Center Street, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

8. Autobahn Indoor Speedway

Are you a fan of speed or seeking an exhilarating adventure? You should go to Autobahn since it offers indoor go-karting in the European style, which is one of the exciting things to do in Manassas, Virginia.

This magnificent 40,000-square-foot facility offers everything you need to race on its particular track in ideal circumstances.

The competition starts the moment you enter the room. Their knowledgeable team will guide your every step.

The high-speed electric Italian pro-karts at Autobahn Indoor Speedway reach up to 50 mph speeds. Your position in the racing competition is tracked on their website.

The go-karts have two-disc brakes and a four-point safety belt as part of their safety features.

You can test your strength on the ax-throwing range at this establishment. Their superb, secure, cutting-edge facility offers a fantastic experience and features advanced technologies.

It is an excellent location for discreet corporate parties and a fun-filled day with friends and family.

Location: 8300 Sudley Road, Suite A5, Manassas, VA 20109, USA

9. Ben Lomond Historical Attractions

Ben Lomond Historic Site is one of Manassas’s many historical sites, as previously mentioned. This historical site, known as the Stone House, relates tales about Virginia’s past before the Civil War.

Confederates utilized the building, which had been erected in the 1830s, as a hospital in 1861. The Lomond Historic Site served as a hospital for the sick and injured during the first and second Battles of Bull Run. It was initially used as a hospital for the wounded.

The mansion’s interior was messy when the Union forces took control of it. But in 2011, the structure was renovated and transformed into a museum where visitors may learn about its past as a Confederate field hospital.

The encounter was made more vivid by the Museum’s recreation of the sounds and smell of the Civil War hospital. As soon as you enter the living space, a sad chapter in American history will come to mind.

Location: 10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas, VA 201709, USA

10. The Liberia Historic Site

The Liberia House Historic Site was initially built in 1825 by essentially slave laborers and served as the home of William Weir and his wife, Harriet Bladen Mitchell Weir.

One of the few remaining early nineteenth-century buildings in Manassas, Virginia, is this historic site, a two-story brick house with five bays.

After ten years of negotiations, Manassas, Virginia, bought the property in 1986 to preserve it and promote tourism. The Manassas Museum System currently oversees the facility.

Liberia’s Civil War history is contained in the historical record. The house still bears the graffiti that Union soldiers left behind.

Brick cornices with a sawtooth pattern that has been molded add decoration to the side-gabled roof.

The Liberia House has a modern, single-pile central passage design.

To safeguard the historic structure and its surroundings from further development, the city of Manassas acquired an additional 12.6 acres of land. Public tours and events are permitted on the property.

One of the major tourist destinations in Manassas, Virginia, and a must-see for everyone in this historical location.

Location: 8601 Portner Ave. Manassas, VA 20110, USA

11. The Manassas Mall

A shopping center called the Manassas Mall debuted in 1972. This fantastic company is owned by Lionheart Capital LLC and run by Spinoso Real Estate Group.

The company has over 80 top-notch stores with fantastic family-friendly food and entertainment opportunities.

This facility has well-known retail stores like Walmart and less well-known ones like Eyebrow Designer 21.

There is free WiFi available in popular locations. There is a location for neighborhood events, including concerts and fundraisers.

The food court has more than ten renowned dining locations where you may purchase food. You can play indoor Go-karting, bowling, and laser tag among other games.

You may be sure that the magnificent Manassas Mall will provide you with an outstanding shopping experience.

One of the best things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to stop at this attraction, a must-see for tourists. The Manassas Mall is accessible seven days a week.

Location: 8300 Sudley Road, Manassas, VA 20109, USA

12. Central Park Aquatic Center

Water lovers and swimmers of all abilities will adore this attraction. Bryon Snyder and Marty Olsen founded Occoquan Swimming, which initially operated as a stroke clinic, in 1986.

One of the great things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is swimming in this unique aquatic center.

The indoor Central Park Aquatic Center has a competition pool and a pool for lessons.

The Aquatic Centre provides a variety of classes and programs, including aquatic exercise, master’s swimming, lifeguard training, after-school child care, and many others.

The center offers fans seating around the competition pool and a viewing area for the lesson pool. Groups can rent the collections and private spaces for events like competitions and celebrations.

Location: 10371 Central Park Drive Manassas, VA 20110, USA

13. Old Manassas Courthouse

The Old Manassas Courthouse was designed by James C. Teague and Philip T. Marye and was constructed in 1893. After a new courthouse was erected, this location ceased to serve as the county courthouse in 1982.

The 1911 Peace Jubilee was held at the historic location. President Taft stood on its land and opened the ceremony to commemorate the First Battle of Manassas. The First Battle of Manassas celebrated its fiftieth anniversary during the Peace Jubilee in 1911.

The Old Manassas Courthouse has a monument honoring the 1911 Jubilee of Peace. Two gun tubes and cannons from the Civil War era can be found next to the plaque and two anchors.

The Old Courthouse was completely renovated, restored, and reopened in 2001. The old courthouse upstairs has been transformed into a classy ballroom that the general public can rent for functions like meetings and wedding receptions.

You can visit the Old Courthouse from Monday through Friday.

Location: 9248 Lee Avenue, Manassas, VA, USA

14. Mayfield Civil War Fort

Another fascinating site in Manassas, Virginia, is the Mayfield Civil War Fort. It is an 11-acre site with human relics from 3,700 BC. It wasn’t until 1861, during the Civil War, that the Fort was built.

When the Confederates arrived to defend the railroad lines, the Hooe family had to depart their home and the historic location where they had been living.

A ring of 12 fortifications was built around the railroad by conscripted enslaved people and soldiers under the direction and control of the Confederacy.

Visitors may see the fortification’s remains and the milestones for the Hooe mansion’s construction. One of the fun things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to take a tour of this historic location.

Location: 8401 Quarry Road, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

15. BadWolf Brewing Company

This family-run brewery first began operations in 2013. The brewery was founded by Jeremy and Sarah, who were inspired by Jeremy’s love of craft beer after traveling to Germany.

This brewery uses premium natural ingredients and does not filter its beer. Badwolf Brewing is ardent about developing new beer and sour varieties by experimenting with various pairings.

The clients will always find a craft brew they like, thanks to their inventiveness. Customers can sample eight different beers that are currently on tap.

You can visit and enjoy a sip of their beer with fresh popcorn despite the tiny space in their tasting room.

Additionally, the brewery periodically has quizzes, books on tap, and craft classes. Visitors are welcome to arrive with food or to sample the brew. While enjoying the beer, you can meet new people in the brewery.

Your kids are welcome to come along as long as they behave themselves. Visit and take a look.

Location: 9776 Center Street, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

16. Manassas National Battlefield Park

A 5-000 acre area is occupied by the Manassas National Battlefield Park, which is of enormous historical value. The first and second Battles of Bull Run were fought on this site. The National Register of Historic Places first listed the Manassas National Battlefield Park in 1966.

About 900,000 people currently visit this National Park each year due to the attraction’s popularity with both residents and visitors.

Make sure to stop by the Henry Hill Visitor Center in Battlefield Park. At the tourist center, you may observe a variety of Civil War uniforms and weapons.

Additionally, the National Park features exhibits that explain how the two wars may have occurred. The Robinson House and Groveton Brawners’ Farm are only a few well-known tourist sites that can be found inside the Park.

Touring this historical site is one of the best things to do in Manassas, Virginia.

Location: 12521 Lee Highway, Manassas, VA 20109, USA

17. The Hylton Performing Arts Center

Another exciting destination in Manassas for art enthusiasts is the Hylton Performing Arts Center. The center, an opera-style building with an 85,000 square foot footprint, has enough for more than 1,000 visitors.

The main performing arts theater, the Gregory Family Theater, and Merchant Hall are in the center.

The seating in both theaters is set up to meet the needs of the performance in big, open spaces.

Dance recitals, physical comedy, children’s summer camps, family programs, art exhibits, and performances under bright and black lights are available at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. These features offer performers vast opportunities to develop and present shows using original content.

One of the enjoyable things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to take in the performance at this venue. The entire family will enjoy this site as a retreat location.

Location: 10960 George Mason Cir, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

18. The Manassas Museum Store-Echoes

One of Manassas, Virginia’s unique attractions is Echoes, the Manassas Museum Store.

Echoes highlight and honor Manassas’s history through various elements, including distinctive Manassas and Virginia-based publications, memorabilia, décor, and clothes.

Numerous books and other items from the Civil War era can help you relive the memories of the conflict that formed the Manassas landscape.

Additionally, some products reflect the distinctive buildings of Historic Downtown Manassas. Snacks and desserts created in Virginia are also sold at the museum store.

Children adore cuddling Lucky, the adorable Jack Russell in the book “All Aboard for Manassas: A Dog’s Tale,” and speeding up the toy trains.

Echoes also sell jewelry and other things that combine striking modern design with Victorian grace.

When visiting Manassas, Virginia, be sure to check out this attraction.

Location: 9101 Prince William Street Manassas, VA 20110, USA

19. Manassas Station

One of the best things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to tour this old building, which has historical significance. While here, you can also visit surrounding attractions.

You might choose to take the Amtrak route when traveling to Manassas. In 1914, the Manassas station was built. In the 1990s, Manassas acquired the line and renovated the station building. The renovated station is roughly 32 feet longer than the original structure.

Here are the Northeast Regional, Crescent, and Cardinal Amtrak train stops. The Virginia Railway Express’s principal station is also this attraction.

The James & Marion Payne Memorial Railroad Gallery and Tourist Information Center are open to station visitors.

Location: 9431 West Street, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

20. Ko Distillery

The two founders of the famous whiskey and gin manufacturer KO Distilling in Manassas, Virginia, are Bill Karlson and John O’Mara.

The 2015-opened KO Distillery served its first batch of unaged whiskey in 2015 and its first batch of aged whiskey in 2016. Their old whiskey has so far equaled the quality of the young whiskey.

Visitors can sample four whiskeys and three gins at the distillery. Visitors can have a tour of the KO Distilling facilities.

Visitors can partake in one of three tastings after the tour, including the standard taste, whiskey or cocktail tasting, and specialty tasting.

Since then, the business has created 28 specialty cocktails using its spirits, and their sampling allows guests to sample three mini versions.

Locals read their products. Why not give it a shot whenever you’re in Manassas, Virginia? Just be responsible.

Location: 10381 Central Park Drive, Suite 105, Manassas, VA 20110

21. factory

The factory Is a Center for the Arts; Manassas artists founded in 1984 to support and develop the local visual arts scene in Manassas, Virginia.

The Manassas attraction is housed on three floors of the former Manassas confectionery factory.

After being restored in 2001 and 2002, the factory has a theater, a gallery, and a teaching area.

Long- or short-term classes in theatre, dance, and art are available at the factory, along with several other activities. A factory is an excellent place for people who love art.

While at the center, visitors can also attend art exhibitions by both domestic and international artists. In certain circumstances, they can even interact with the artists during an artist’s reception.

One of the best things to do in Manassas, Virginia, is to tour this art center and participate in its events.

Location: 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

22. Siam Classic

Thai cuisine is well regarded, adored, and enjoyed in Manassas at Siam Classic, a Thai restaurant.

The restaurant offers delectable, low-fat, gluten-free, vegetarian entrees, soups, appetizers, and noodle bowls. The freshest, best natural components are used to prepare every meal.

Try one of the many Thai delicacies or Thai-inspired dishes, such as Flaming Quail, Gai Non-Rung, Pad Woon Sen, and Pad Kra Prao. Some curry specialties, including curry puffs, are also available for enjoyment.

Most Thai restaurants only provide one or two types of soup, but Siam Classic offers a wide variety, including bean curd, wonton, rice noodles, and coconut lemongrass.

Red bean puff, bean custard, mango with sticky rice, and wanton-wrapped bananas are just a few of the mas to taste. Soft-shell crab, whole fish with basil, tamarind shrimp, honey basil duck, and royal scallops are some of the restaurant’s specialties.

In addition to the delectable Thai food, guests can relax with a draft beer or a glass of wine from the well-stocked bar. Your taste senses will appreciate it if you make sure to visit this place while you are in Manassas, Virginia.

Location: 9403 East St, Manassas, VA 20110, USA

23. Signal Hill

Signal Hill, a Confederate army station from the Civil War, provides tourists with a large open area and various entertaining activities. Union soldiers attempted to cross Sudley Ford from this location, as observed by Confederate observers.

The Park features several amenities, including a fishing pond, a basketball court, a professional softball field, an arena, tennis courts, a 27,000-square-foot waterpark called Signal Bay, soccer fields, and a long walking track.

Additionally, there is a pavilion with restrooms, picnic tables, and charcoal grills, making it the ideal location for picnics. Additionally, this park is available for public use for celebrations like weddings and birthdays. This tourist destination is a must-see and provides some of the entertaining activities in Manassas, Virginia.

Location: 9300 Signal View Drive Manassas Park, VA 20111, USA

Conclusion

Visitors may find a variety of attractions in Manassas; there is always something for everyone to try. It has historical attractions, tranquil spots, exciting locations, and delicious restaurants serving exotic food. It comes highly recommended as a holiday spot.

Start making travel plans to Manassas and save this guide for later as you travel there for a great getaway.