Stafford Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, hiking and biking trails, where to stay, and more in Stafford, Virginia.


Introduction to Stafford

Stafford is a beautiful town located in Stafford County, Northern Virginia, United States of America. Known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, Stafford is a popular tourist destination. The town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures which makes it an ideal place for tourists. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will walk you through the must-visit places, hiking trails, food and drink scene, hotels, and local customs of Stafford.

List of Places to Visit in Stafford

There are many places to visit in Stafford that offer a glimpse of the town’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here’s a list of the top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • George Washington’s Boyhood Home: This historical site is where George Washington spent his formative years. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  • Aquia Episcopal Church: One of the oldest churches in Stafford, this church dates back to the 1700s and is an excellent example of colonial architecture.
  • White Oak Civil War Museum: This museum gives an insight into the Civil War and its impact on Stafford County.

Natural Attractions of Stafford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Government Island Park: This park is an excellent location for outdoor activities such as hiking, bike riding, and kayaking.
  • Potomac Point Winery: This winery is located in the beautiful countryside and offers a great opportunity to relax and taste some of the best wines Stafford has to offer.
  • Aquia Landing Beach Park: Located along the Potomac River, this park is a great picnic spot with beautiful scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stafford

Stafford is home to many hiking and biking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the top trails to explore:

  • Accokeek Creek Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife refuge has over 2,900 acres of natural wilderness that you can explore by hiking or biking.
  • Potomac Point Winery Loop: This 2.7-mile trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Aquia Creek Battlefield Trail: This 1.8-mile trail takes you through the site of a Civil War battle and is great for history buffs.

Best Things to Do in Stafford: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Stafford offers many other activities and tours that you should consider. Here are the top things to do:

  • Go wine tasting at Potomac Point Winery
  • Visit George Washington’s Boyhood Home
  • Canoe or kayak along the Potomac River
  • Take a scenic drive along Route 1
  • Tour the White Oak Civil War Museum

Week-Long Itinerary for Stafford

If you’re planning to spend an entire week in Stafford, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit George Washington’s Boyhood Home, Aquia Episcopal Church, and White Oak Civil War Museum
Day 2 Hike the Accokeek Creek Wildlife Refuge, visit the Stafford Farmers Market, and take a scenic drive along Route 1
Day 3 Wine tasting at Potomac Point Winery, visit Government Island Park, and watch a movie at Paragon Village 12 Theaters
Day 4 Kayak or canoe along the Potomac River, visit Aquia Landing Beach Park, and take a relaxing stroll along the Stafford Civil War Park
Day 5 Visit the Stafford County Historical Society, the Historic Port of Falmouth, and the Community Concerts of Stafford
Day 6 Take a brewery tour of Adventure Brewing Company, explore the Natural Bridge Caverns, and visit the Stafford Arts Commission
Day 7 Visit the Rappahannock River National Wildlife Refuge, take a scenic drive along Warrenton Road, and visit the Quantico National Cemetery

Food and Drink Scene of Stafford

Stafford has a vibrant food and drink scene, with an array of local and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbeque: Stafford has plenty of options for delicious BBQ, including Jake’s Place and Firebirds Wood Fired Grill.
  • Crab Cake: Head to Dockside Restaurant and Tiki Bar for some of the best crab cakes in the area.
  • Oysters: If you’re an oyster lover, you must try the oysters at the Blue Crab Bay Company and Dockside Restaurant.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Adventure Brewing Company is a great place to try some locally brewed beer.
  • Wine: Potomac Point Winery offers some of the best wines in the area, which you can taste and purchase.

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

Stafford has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hampton Inn Stafford/Quantico & Conference Center: This hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a fitness center and free breakfast.
  • Econo Lodge: This budget-friendly hotel is located close to many of Stafford’s top attractions and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
  • The Inn at Kelly’s Ford: If you’re looking for a more luxurious stay, The Inn at Kelly’s Ford is the perfect option. It’s an elegant and charming property set amidst stunning countryside scenery.

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

When in Stafford, you should consider bringing home some of the local products and souvenirs. Here are some popular options:

  • The Stafford County Historical Society Gift Shop: Here, you can buy historical books, maps, and other souvenirs that showcase Stafford’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Coppervine Gifts & Gallery: You can buy unique handcrafted gifts, jewelry, and artwork at this gallery.

Local Culture and Customs of Stafford

Stafford has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s essential to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Friendliness and hospitality: Stafford locals are known for being friendly and hospitable. It is good practice to reciprocate these friendly gestures.
  • Patriotic: The town, like many in America, is considered to be patriotic: you can see this through the numerous monuments, memorials, and historical landmarks commemorating America’s history and soldiers.

Best Time to Visit Stafford

The best time to visit Stafford is from April to October, when the weather is mild, and nature is at its best. The town is bustling with activity, and you can enjoy many outdoor activities and events. If you visit during the summer, be prepared for slightly higher prices and crowds, due to the peak tourism season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stafford

Do:

  • Explore nature: Stafford has many scenic hiking trails and parks to explore.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: Be respectful of Stafford’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages: Stafford has an excellent food and drink scene, and you should try out some of the local specialties.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Stafford is known for its natural beauty, and it’s important to keep it clean.
  • Disrespect the locals: Stafford locals are known for their hospitality, and it’s important to respect them.
  • Ignore local rules and regulations: Always follow the local rules and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Stafford

Stafford is a relatively safe town, but it’s essential to take some basic safety precautions. Here are some tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid dark, isolated areas.
  • Lock your car and hotel room: Lock your car and hotel room when not in use.
  • Keep your valuables safe: Keep your valuables, including passport and cash, in the hotel safe.

Health in Stafford

Stafford has a good healthcare system, with many hospitals and clinics. Here are some helpful tips to stay healthy during your visit:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Use sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen with a high SPF level.

Getting to Stafford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Stafford is well connected to other major cities in Virginia and the United States. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Stafford

The closest airports to Stafford are Washington Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. You can rent a car from the airport or take a taxi to get to Stafford.

Bus Stations Near Stafford

Greyhound has a bus stop in Stafford, and you can take a bus from or to Stafford. You can also take a local bus within Stafford for a more budget-friendly transportation option.

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies located at the airport. Alternatively, you could take a train to Fredericksburg, Virginia, and then take a taxi or bus to Stafford.

How to Get Around in Stafford

The best way to get around Stafford is by car, but you can also use public transportation. Stafford has a good public transportation system, including buses and taxis, but most tourists prefer renting a car to explore the town at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Stafford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to explore nearby destinations and towns, there are several places to visit:

  • Fredericksburg: A historic town that boasts many historical sites and architectural landmarks.
  • Manassas: Another historic town with connections to the Civil War, offering many museums and monuments to explore.
  • Washington DC: The National Mall, the White House, and other iconic landmarks are all within a two-hour drive from Stafford.

Conclusion

Stafford is a delightful town with something to offer to every traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Stafford has plenty to explore. From its historical landmarks to its scenic trails, Stafford offers an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Use this guide to plan your trip to Stafford, and you’re guaranteed to have an enjoyable and unforgettable experience.