Authentic Northern Virginia

August 29, 2018 • History Factory

History Factory is proud to call Chantilly, Virginia, home. Since moving into our state-of-the-art facility in 1995, we’ve discovered a thing or two about Northern Virginia that might surprise you and make you want to include it on your next itinerary when visiting the archives facility. Enjoy this list of authentic taps, plates and excursions from our team.

Authentic Meals

• Cafesano: Looking for a fresh and flavorful meal by the lakeside? Check out Cafesano’s location in Reston, dishing up Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.

• Willard’s Real Pit BBQ: Authentic Carolina pulled pork, Kansas City burnt ends, St. Louis ribs, and Jamaican jerk chicken. Who knew Virginia served as a passport to the barbecued meats of the world?

• The Pure Pasty Co.: This busy storefront bakery provides a wide selection of savory and authentic English-style pies.

• Gregorio’s Trattoria: Gregorio’s recipes are homemade Italian favorites with something for everyone.

Local Taps

• Crooked Run Brewing: Originally a 600-square-feet space in the heart of downtown Leesburg with only two beers on tap, Crooked Run is now considered the best brewery in Loudon County.

• Mustang Sally Brewing Company: For local craft beer, Mustang Sally is a great choice—one of three craft breweries we’ve discovered in Chantilly alone! A suitable venue for those seeking to quench their thirst, and about a minute’s walk from History Factory

• Caboose Brewing Co.: Located on the Washington & Old Dominion Trail, Caboose Brewing offers beer and farm-to-table American fare in a lofty, industrial space with a patio.

• Crushed Cellars: The perfect pair: comfortable atmosphere and award-winning wines in the heart of Northern Virginia’s wine country. Eat your heart out, Napa!

Authentic Experiences

• Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: The only Smithsonian Institution museum in Northern Virginia. Check out the converted airplane hangar where you can see the space shuttle Discovery.

• Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park: See historic markers as you run, walk or cycle the 45-mile trail ranging from Shirlington to Purcellville. The local breweries and restaurants along the trail offer a great excuse to exercise.

• Potomac Heritage National Trail: This 19.2-mile National Park Service trail follows the Potomac River and passes through Riverbend Park and Great Falls Park, with stunning views.

• Lake Anne Plaza: Featured on the National Register of Historic Places, Lake Anne Plaza was the original town center for Reston, the United States’ first planned community. Pick up a book from Reston’s used book store and have a drink at the Lake Anne Brew House.

• Manassas National Battlefield Park: The site of the First Battle of Bull Run as well as the Second Battle of Bull Run during the Civil War.

• Ball’s Bluff Battlefield Regional Park: Site of one of the largest Civil War engagements, with guided tours from April through November, volunteer-guided programs and living history events.

• Sully Plantation: Completed in 1799 by the first congressman from Northern Virginia, this historic site offers events and hands-on discoveries.