Ashburn Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ashburn with this informative guide, featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, local cuisine, culture, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Ashburn

Located in Loudoun County of Northern Virginia, Ashburn is a quaint town that offers a mix of natural beauty and modern amenities. It is a perfect destination for those who are looking for a fun-filled vacation, a weekend getaway, or a peaceful retreat.

The town of Ashburn has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century, and it was once home to several notable families. Over the years, Ashburn has undergone significant development, and it has now become a thriving residential and commercial hub within the state.

List of Places to Visit in Ashburn

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum: A museum that showcases the agricultural heritage of Loudoun County, featuring exhibits on the history of farming, dairy farming, and the role of women in agriculture.
  • The Ashburn Colored School: A historic one-room African American schoolhouse that served the community from 1892 to 1957, now operates as a museum that offers guided tours.
  • The First Baptist Church of Ashburn: A historic church that was established in the late 1800s, providing tours to the public on the building’s architecture and history.

Natural Attractions of Ashburn: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bles Park: A 124-acre park located on the banks of the Potomac River, with a paved trail for walking and biking, a playground, picnic areas, and a boat launch.
  • Ashburn Park: A 16-acre park featuring a playground, picnic areas, and sports facilities.
  • Trailside Park: A park that offers biking and hiking trails, fishing, and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ashburn

Ashburn has several hiking and biking trails that offer a chance to enjoy outdoor activities while exploring the natural beauty of the area. Some of the top trails to check out include:

  • Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail: The W&OD Trail is a 45-mile trail that runs from Shirlington in Arlington to Purcellville in Loudoun County and is suitable for walking, biking, and rollerblading.
  • Farmwell Station Trail: This trail is an excellent option for families with kids. It is a 2-mile trail that is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride, and it offers beautiful views of the nearby lake and countryside.

Best Things to Do in Ashburn: Activities and Tours

  • TopGolf Loudoun: A fun destination for an afternoon of golf, food, and drinks.
  • One Loudoun: A mixed-use community that offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
  • iFLY Indoor Skydiving: Experience the thrill of skydiving indoors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ashburn

Day 1: Tour of Historical Places

  • Visit Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum
  • Take a guided tour of The Ashburn Colored School

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

  • Take a hike on the Washington and Old Dominion Trail
  • Picnic at Bles Park

Day 3: Family-Friendly Activities

  • Go to iFly Indoor Skydiving
  • Eat dinner at One Loudoun

Day 4: Relaxation Day

  • Visit Trailside Park for a leisurely walk or picnic

Day 5: Food and Drink Tour

  • Visit some of the famous restaurants and bars in One Loudoun

Day 6: Explore the Countryside

  • Visit the nearby vineyards and wineries
  • Take a hot-air balloon ride for a scenic view of the area

Day 7: Shopping Day

  • Visit the Ashburn Delta Shoppes for shopping and dining
  • Relax with a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Food and Drink Scene of Ashburn

Must-Try Dishes

  • Virginia Ham: A traditional Southern dish made from salt-cured ham.
  • Crab Cakes: A dish made with fresh, locally-caught crab meat.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: A popular side dish.

Local Beverages

  • Loudoun County Wine: Visit the nearby vineyards and wineries for a taste of the local wines.
  • Local Craft Beers: Ashburn has several breweries that offer unique craft beers.

Where to Stay in Ashburn: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Aloft Dulles Airport North: A modern hotel located near the airport.
  • Hyatt Place Dulles Airport North: A hotel that offers free airport shuttle, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Dulles-North/Loudoun: A hotel that provides guests with spacious suites, free breakfast, and evening reception.

What to Buy in Ashburn: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local Wine and Beer
  • Crafts and Pottery: Crafts and pottery made by local artisans make excellent souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Ashburn

Ashburn has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the historical significance of the area. Visitors should respect the local customs and culture while exploring the region.

Best Time to Visit Ashburn

The best time to visit Ashburn is during the spring (March-May) or the fall (September-November), when the weather is pleasant and the foliage is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ashburn

Do:

  • Visit the nearby vineyards and wineries
  • Explore the hiking and biking trails
  • Respect the local customs and culture

Don’t:

  • Litter in the parks and other public spaces
  • Ignore the “no smoking” signs

Safety and Health

Safety in Ashburn

Ashburn is a relatively safe destination, and visitors should take standard safety precautions like locking cars and securing valuables. In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Health in Ashburn

Visitors should take standard health precautions like staying hydrated and using sunscreen during outdoor activities, especially during the summer.

Getting to Ashburn: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ashburn

  • Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Bus Stations Near Ashburn

  • Greyhound Bus Terminal, Leesburg, VA

Other Options

  • Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft

How to Get Around in Ashburn

The best way to get around Ashburn is by car. However, visitors can also use taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transit options.

Where to Go Next from Ashburn: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Washington, D.C.: The US capital city is less than an hour’s drive from Ashburn.
  • Leesburg, VA: A historic town known for its wineries, antiques shops, and quaint architecture.

Conclusion

Ashburn is a beautiful destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and modern amenities. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their time exploring the best of Ashburn and the surrounding area.