Press Kit - Virginias Cultural Region

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WEBSITE
www.Virginia.org/VirginiasCulturalRegion
CONTACT
Sana Keller Virginia Tourism Corporation 416-231-5692
Destination
Overview
[email protected]
Welcome to Northern Virginia – also known as Virginia’s Cultural Region –
where an ideal mix of history and approachable local culture promises visitors
a rich experience. You can learn about the events and places that helped shape
the United States while discovering quaint downtown neighborhoods, where
locals treat visitors like family. Stroll tree-lined streets and tour charming boutique
wineries. Hop on bikes to ride along the banks of the Potomac River for some
of the most stunning views of Washington D.C. found anywhere. Browse the
home of America’s first President, hoist a pint at an historic brewery, dine on the
masterpieces of a celebrity chef or treat yourself to a little retail therapy. It’s all
waiting for you in Virginia’s Cultural Region.
Virginia’s Cultural Region is known as the “hip and cosmopolitan side of Virginia,”
and it’s easy to see why. With award-winning theatre companies, dazzling visual
artists, crave-worthy cuisine and chic shopping, it’s the place to be. Indulge in
locally sourced dishes at award-winning restaurants featuring cuisine from around
the world. Applaud the performances of world-class theatre productions and
meet with local artisans as they create everything from watercolors and sculpture
to jewelry and woodwork. Enjoy live music from international artists or up-andcoming indie bands. Equally as dazzling are the options for the perfect purchase,
with the world’s top designers or quaint shops at your fingertips. So are the
bargains, with two outlet malls featuring brand names at a fraction of the cost.
Amphitheatre at
Arlington National Cemetery
Loudoun County
Destination
Overview
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Just as hip and cosmopolitan are the unique opportunities to sample libations
not available anywhere else. With more than 40 wineries and 35 breweries,
Virginia’s Cultural Region is the ideal place to hoist a pint or toast a glass. Sample
the libations from George Washington’s own recipes, handed down through the
generations. Explore our wineries, where producers hand craft wines in intimate
settings ranging from renovated dairy barns to Mediterranean style estates.
But of course, being hip and cosmopolitan today doesn’t come without a storied
past, and you can explore that history right here in Virginia’s Cultural Region as
well. America’s first President made his home here, which has set the stage for the
region being at the epicenter of many of the historical events and decisive battles
that have shaped the nation ever since. Explore Civil War battlefields and honor
the soldiers of wars past with solemn memorials and tributes to our nation’s armed
forces. Combine that with the quaint side of history, with tree-lined boulevards and
cobblestone streets featuring antique shops and friendly one-of-a-kind boutiques.
And of course, it’s all just steps from the power and influence of America’s capital
city, Washington, D.C.
Alexandria
Destination
Overview
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And with so much to do, Virginia’s Cultural Region is also a great way to get
outside to see it all. Bring your bicycle (or rent one via the convenient Capital
Bikeshare program) and take to the miles of bike trails that traverse the region,
or ride alongside the shores of the Potomac River for amazing views of the D.C.
monuments and Tidal Basin. Take to the water yourself for a scenic kayak ride
or aboard a relaxing dinner cruise. Enjoy a round of golf, a leisurely hike in the
woods, or relax with a picnic overlooking acres of vineyards. The possibilities are
endless.
From breweries to battlefields, from cuisine to couture, Virginia’s Cultural Region is
a destination not to be missed. Meet the artistic influences of today and tomorrow
as you mingle with the stories of the past and dine or sip with the very best. It’s all
found in Virginia’s Cultural Region.
Fairfax County
Prince William & Manassas
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What’s New?
Whether you’re new to the region or a longtime fan, there’s always
something to discover in Virginia’s Cultural Region
LOUDOUN COUNTY
Follow that ale trail. Loudoun County is well known for quality wine and
now the players on the other side of the beverage aisle are making waves.
Breweries here have doubled in number in recent years and Loudoun is now
home to 17 – and counting! The LoCo Ale Trail makes it easy to let your
palate be your guide, leading you to small batch, hand-crafted brews with
itineraries that highlight everything from bike-able to pet-friendly breweries.
Winery expansions. The wine industry continues to thrive as some of
Loudoun’s 40 wineries expand with new tasting rooms and facilities.
• Breaux Vineyards welcomes visitors to their new facility’s spacious
rooms and small, intimate nooks for an experience that’s easy to enjoy.
Offering numerous outdoor patios with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge
Mountains, the main tasting room gives a nod to the owner’s Louisiana
roots with French Quarter details.
• Stone Tower Winery’s new state-of-the-art facility invites you to stay a while
in a new tasting room and numerous spaces decorated with plush couches
and modern décor with rustic touches. Enjoy a special tasting in the barrel
room or a glass of vino by the roaring fireplace.
Adroit Theory Brewery
Dirt Farm Brewery
Stone Tower Winery
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• The expansion of Chrysalis Vineyards connects visitors to Loudoun’s rich
agricultural scene with a new “Ag District” spanning 400 acres. Working with
Locksley Estate Farmstead Cheese Company, Chrysalis will soon include a
cheese production facility and a tech-savvy tasting room that connects visitors
with digital information about the wines.
• Fabbioli Cellars now offers a new circular, two-level tasting room built around
a unique central structure: a tree of lighted vines that were sourced from the
property.
Sehkraft Brewing
ARLINGTON
New year, new brews. There are more ways to raise a pint in 2016 with the
addition of two new Arlington breweries.
• Sehkraft Brewing in Clarendon is a 9,000 square-foot brewpub housing a
10-barrel brewhouse, a 200+ seat restaurant, a live music stage and its own
butcher shop.
• New District Brewing Company in the Shirlington neighborhood welcomed
its first guests in January as Arlington’s first truly local package brewery in
a century, providing seasonal craft beers made with an emphasis on locally
sourced and quality imported ingredients.
New District
Brewing Company
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What’s New?
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PRINCE WILLIAM & MANASSAS
Spring temptations. Spring’s allure is in full force here, with outdoor beauty,
fine spirits and fast action calling your name in Prince William County and
Manassas.
• Along with the 2016 National Park Service Centennial, Prince William Forest
National Park celebrates 80 years of service this year. Don’t miss a chance to
visit the largest green space in the DC Metropolitan area, where hiking and
biking trails give you access to 15,000 beautiful acres.
Autobahn
Indoor Speedway
• Educate your palate at Murlarkey Distilled Spirits, which opened its doors for
tours and tastings of handcrafted small-batch selections early this year. Keep an
eye on the growing excitement at Brew Republic Bierwerks brewpub, offering
craft brews in a friendly taproom atmosphere in spring 2016.
• Thrill seekers can test their driving skills soon at Autobahn Indoor Speedway,
the largest go-kart facility this side of Washington, D.C.
FAIRFAX COUNTY
Entertainment central. Fairfax County adds games, brews and high-flying fun
this spring, along with inspired celebrations and learning opportunities.
• Big fun and games come to Northern Virginia as Dave & Buster’s brings its
popular restaurant fare and hundreds of arcade games, sports and activities to
the newly revamped Springfield Town Center, promising “the most fun you can
have all under one roof.”
• Long home to fabulous restaurants and pubs, Fairfax has seen a major surge
in craft breweries opening in the area with new options popping up across the
county. Forge Brew Works and Fair Winds Brewing Co. comprise the “Lorton
Beer Trail” in South County. Vienna welcomed its own farm-to-table brewery
and restaurant this year when Caboose Brewing Co. opened at a location off
the popular Washington & Old Dominion Trail. Herndon saw Aslin Beer Co.
open this past summer, Reston welcomes the Lake Anne Brew House this year
and Fairfax welcomes Mustang Sally Brewing Co. this spring.
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What’s New?
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• Cirque du Soleil brings internationally acclaimed acrobatics and theatrical
wonder to Fairfax County, presenting Kurios – Cabinet of Curiosities under
a 62-foot high big top at Lerner Town Square in Tysons, VA, from July 21 to
August 21, 2016.
• As the National Park Service turns 100 in 2016, you’re invited to be inspired
with special events and activities in all National Parks, including Fairfax
county’s own Wolf Trap, Great Falls Park and many other stops along the
George Washington Memorial Parkway.
• The Children’s Science Center Lab is Northern Virginia’s first interactive
museum, giving children, families and school groups access to science,
technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) concepts through engaging
hands-on exhibits, activities and programs. The Lab’s Experiment Bar,
Inspiration Hub, Tinker Shop and Discovery make for inspired learning for
children aged two through 12.
Great Falls Park
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What’s New?
ALEXANDRIA
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Extraordinary experiences. From outstanding brews to unique waterfront
exploration, Alexandria is buzzing with new ways to enjoy your time together.
Port City Brewing Co.
• In Alexandria’s craft brew scene, new accolades and a historical revival
deserve your attention this year. Offering award-winning brews and quirky
events like Beer Yoga and Pedals & Pints, Alexandria’s Port City Brewing Co.
was named the Best Small Brewery in the U.S. at the 2015 Great American
Beer Festival – considered the Oscars of the beer world. Soon to open in
summer of 2016, two sisters are drafting Alexandria’s newest chapter in craft
beer history by reviving the past to continue their great-great-grandfather’s
legacy. Robert Portner Brewing Co., headquartered in Alexandria and its
largest employer from 1869 until 1916, was the largest brewery in the south.
A century later, Catherine and Margaret Portner are brewing up old family
recipes and new seasonal offerings at Portner Brewhouse, a pre-Prohibitioninspired brewery, restaurant and Craft Beer Test Kitchen.™
• Whether it’s street performers, art, music, al fresco drinks and dining in a
beautiful setting, or launching an exploration of the region via water taxis
and river cruises by Potomac Riverboat Company, there’s always something
new to experience at Alexandria’s historic waterfront. Take a scenic boat ride
to the monuments on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Book the Mount
Vernon by Bike and Boat package to cycle the Mount Vernon Trail to George
Washington’s estate and embark on a narrated cruise back to Alexandria.
Back at the marina, immerse yourself in new works at the 82 artist studios at
the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Settle in for waterfront views and live music at
the rustically elegant Blackwall Hitch. In 2016, Alexandria Restaurant Partners
will unveil a new restaurant featuring a riverside bar serving specialty rum and
tropical cocktails.
Potomac Riverboat Co.
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Brews and Biking
Virginia’s Cultural Region is known for quality wine, but it is quickly also
becoming one of the hottest areas for craft beer, with more than 35 breweries
including the ‘Best Small Brewing Company in the U.S.’ honoree, Port City
Brewing Co. From quaint breweries in historic buildings to farm breweries
growing their own hops and hoppin’ brewpubs, it’s a great way to experience the
flavor of the region. If you would prefer to work off the calories before drinking
them in, hop on your bike and explore the string of breweries that are along the
Washington & Old Dominion and Mount Vernon Trails that span almost 100 miles
throughout the region. Bring your own two wheels or rent one from Bike and Roll
or from the Capital Bikeshare program.
ATTRACTIONS:
• More than 35 breweries (Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince
William/Manassas)
• ‘Best Small Brewing Company in the U.S.’ Port City Brewing Co., featuring
Pedals and Pints bike ride (Alexandria)
• BadWolf Brewing and Heritage Brewing Co. (Prince William/Manassas)
• Sehkraft Brewing and New District Brewing (Arlington)
• LoCo Ale Trail featuring 17 breweries (Loudoun)
• Caboose Brewing Co. and the Lorton Beer Trail (Fairfax)
• Bike and Roll bike rentals (Alexandria)
• Capital Bikeshare (Arlington, Alexandria, coming soon to Fairfax)
• Washington & Old Dominion Trail (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun)
• Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac River with views of Washington, DC
• Monuments and springtime Cherry Blossoms (Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax)
Port City Brewing Co.
Dogfish Head Alehouse
BadWolf Brewing Co.
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Divine Wine
and a Trip
Through Time
Pair a crisp Viognier with a trip back in time to George Washington’s home,
or try a flavorful Norton with the stories of the American Civil War. Virginia’s
Cultural Region will take you on a journey through American history and the craft
of winemaking. Sample a great wine and cheese plate just steps from national
historical treasures. Choose from the picturesque vineyards of more than 40
wineries featuring everything from Cabernet to Chambourcin and choose from
dozens of historic sites that helped shape the United States.
ATTRACTIONS:
• More than 40 Wineries (Loudoun, Fairfax, Prince William/Manassas)
• Quirky wine bars (Arlington, Alexandria)
• Arlington National Cemetery Tomb of the Unknowns (Arlington)
• Manassas National Battlefield Park (Prince William/Manassas) and The Winery
at Bull Run (Fairfax)
• George Washington’s Mount Vernon (Fairfax)
• Morven Park (Loudoun)
DC’s Wine Country
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Historical Hotspots
Marine Corps
War Memorial
Immerse yourself in the rich American history that permeates Virginia’s Cultural
Region. Get to know America’s first president at George Washington’s Mount
Vernon or see where he interacted politically at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. For
American Civil War history, visit Manassas National Battlefield Park, the site of
the first major battle of the war. Pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown
Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery and the nearby National 9/11 Pentagon
Memorial. Homes of great architectural significance like Morven Park in Leesburg
can also be found throughout the region. Sample a great wine or craft beer just
steps from national historical treasures.
ATTRACTIONS:
• George Washington’s Mount Vernon (Fairfax)
• Manassas National Battlefield Park (Prince William/Manassas)
• Morven Park (Loudoun)
• Arlington National Cemetery and Marine Corps War Memorial (Arlington)
• Gadsby’s Tavern Museum (Alexandria)
• Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
(Fairfax)
Smithsonian’s National Air and Space
Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Manassas National
Battlefield Park
George Washington’s
Mount Vernon
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Cuisine and
Couture
The Northern Virginia region has been referred to as the “hip and cosmopolitan
side of Virginia,” boasting crave-worthy cuisine and chic shopping. Indulge in
locally sourced dishes at award-winning restaurants featuring cuisine from around
the world, as well as artisanal goodies ranging from chocolates and local cheeses
to local coffee and spirits. The region also has some of the best shopping in the
country. You’ll find everything from antique shops, boutiques, and art galleries in
historic towns, to 400+ stores and restaurants plus high-end luxury retail in Tysons
Corner – home to the “Rodeo Drive of the East Coast.” There are also two outlet
malls located in the region for those looking to grab bargains.
ATTRACTIONS:
• Artisan Confections (Arlington)
• Cheesetique (Arlington, Alexandria)
• King Street shops and restaurants (Alexandria)
• Antique shopping in Leesburg (Loudoun)
• Tysons Corner Center and luxury shopping at Tysons Galleria (Fairfax)
• Art galleries in Historic Occoquan (Prince William/Manassas)
• Outlet malls (Prince William/Manassas, Loudoun)
PX Cocktail Lounge
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Charming
Downtown
Districts
Soak up the small town charm of Northern Virginia’s downtown districts. Stroll
bustling King Street in Old Town Alexandria, within eyesight of Washington, D.C.
on the Potomac River waterfront for dining, boutiques and galleries. In nearby
Arlington, the stylish Village of Shirlington features a European-style promenade
with outdoor dining, fun night spots and eclectic art-house movies. Visit Historic
Downtown Manassas for a family-owned craft beer brewery, shops and museums.
Historic Downtown Leesburg boasts antiques dealers, art galleries and other
specialty shops. And visit the charming small town of Historic Clifton, where you
can dine at destination restaurants or visit Fairfax County’s first winery, shop
antique stores, and end your day with homemade custard.
ATTRACTIONS:
• King Street/Old Town (Alexandria)
• Village of Shirlington (Arlington)
• Historic Downtown Manassas (Prince William/Manassas)
• Historic Occoquan (Prince William/Manassas)
• Historic Downtown Leesburg (Loudoun)
• Historic Clifton (Fairfax)
King Street, Alexandria
Historic Downtown Manassas
Historic Occoquan
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Unforgettable
Arts and
Culture
Workhouse
Arts Center
Northern Virginia is a travelers’ cultural paradise. Tap into the arts scene with
unexpected visual arts centers - including a former torpedo factory, a candy
factory, and even an historic former prison. Experience world-class theater
and performances at the Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre or enjoy a
show under the stars at Wolf Trap, the only National Park dedicated to the
Performing Arts. Discover independent art galleries tucked inside historic
buildings along picturesque streetscapes.
ATTRACTIONS:
• Signature Theatre (Arlington)
• Synetic Theater (Arlington
• Iota Club & Café (Arlington)
• Torpedo Factory Art Center (Alexandria)
• Birchmere Music Hall (Alexandria)
• Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts (Fairfax)
• Workhouse Arts Center (Fairfax)
• Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory (Prince William/Manassas)
• Tally Ho Theatre (Loudoun)
• Cooley Gallery (Loudoun)
Synetic Theater
Torpedo Factory Art Center
Wolf Trap National Park
For the Performing Arts