Nestled between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Stafford, Virginia, is a charming and historically rich destination offering a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and small-town charm. Known for its deep colonial roots, Stafford played a significant role in early American history and is home to landmarks like George Washington’s boyhood home, Ferry Farm, and the historic Aquia Church.
Beyond its history, Stafford boasts beautiful parks, scenic trails, and riverfront access, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Whether you’re exploring the Government Island nature preserve, hiking along the Crow’s Nest Natural Area, or enjoying the Rappahannock River, there’s plenty to see and do.
Looking for things to do in Stafford? Keep reading for 50 must-visit spots!
- Gather information about the area at the Stafford Visitor Center.
- Take a hike at America’s Historic Stone Quarry – Government Island
- Watch a spectacular show at Riverside Dinner Theater
- Pay your respects at Stafford Armed Service Memorial
- Visit the site where George Washington spent most of his childhood – Ferry Farm
- Attend a free paint class at Bella Joy Ballroom (These are no longer happening. )
- Take a trip back in time at Crow’s Nest
- Grab pizza at J’s Pizza and Subs
- Search for dinosaur footprints at Gari Melcher’s Home and Studio
- Skate at Cavalier Family Skating Center
- Share a Korean Snow dessert at Merge Cafe
- Splash at the Thurston Water Park
- Check out the scenic river overlook at Duff McDuff Green Memorial Park
- Walk in the footsteps of history at Chatham Manor
- Attend an event at 6 Bears and a Goat and take a picture with the LOVE sign
- Tour Aquia Episcopal Church
- Try a new ice cream flavor at Tilly’s Homemade Ice Cream
- Skateboard at St. Clair Brooks Memorial Park
- Walk on the paved trail at Smith Lake Park
- Shoot some hoops at John Lee Pratt Park’s Bankshot basketball court and check out their new ninja park
- Tumble at Stafford Gymnastic Tot Open Gym
- Visit “Your Neighborhood Bistro” – Grounds Bistro
- Hike on the trails at Widewater State Park
- Bike or scooter on the Belmont-Ferry Farm Trail
- Relax with a book at the Howell Branch Library
- Eat rolled ice cream at Koi Tea
- Airplane watch at the Stafford Airport or take a free flight with the Young Eagles . While you’re there check out the Langley Flight Exhibit.
- Paddle on Lake Mooney
- Devour a cupcake from the Icing Baking Company
- View the puppies and exotic pets at Pets Plus
- Volunteer at the Rappahannock Education Farm. They grow food to donate to food banks in the area.
- Discover disc golf or gaga ball at Curtis Park
- Play a game of baseball at Chichester Park
- Take a picture with the bunkers and cannons at Stafford Civil War Park
- Splash at the Woodlands Pool’s Splash Pad
- Learn to code at Code Ninjas
- Fish at Abel Lake Reservoir
- Check out the specials at Amy’s Cafe
- Watch a sporting event at Embrey Mill Park
- Dive off the diving board at Mark Lenzi Pool
- Camp at Aquia Pines Camp Resort
- Design stained glass at Bluebird Stained Glass Studio
- Stroll around the pond at Patawomeck Park
- Shop Sundays at the Long Family Farmers Markets
- Swim at an Olympic sized pool at the Jeff Rouse Swim and Sport Center
- Exercise at the Massad Family YMCA
- Taste Afghan kabobs at Kabob Corner
- Enjoy glow in the dark golf at Monster Mini Golf
- Find Virginia Made items at Olde Virginia Gourmet & Gifts
- Grab lunch at the 19th Hole at The Gauntlet
- Try a gourmet cinnamon roll at Cinnaholic
- Visit a record holding ginkgo tree
Bonus:
Grab a bouquet of flowers from a self-service flower booth: Glendie’s Flowers – only $5. Unfortunately, Glendie’s closed in 2024.
Visit the National Marine Corps Museum
Don’t forget to check out our list of 50 Things to Do in Fredericksburg, VA.
Also, look at our list of 50 Things to Do in Spotsylvania County, VA, with bonus spots in Locust Grove and Caroline County VA.
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