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Fauquier is a little county headed by the town of Warrenton, the county seat. Warrenton features shops that make you want to buy everything (and maybe you will! ), rolling hills filled with award-winning wineries, and whispers of history around every corner. This hidden gem caters to all kinds of travelers – history lovers can geek out over revolutionary battlefields, and foodies like me can indulge in farm-fresh flavors and craft brews!
This guide will help you discover the best things to do in Fauquier County and plan your ultimate Virginia trip to Horse & Wine Country.
Best Things to Do in Warrenton, VA
Admire historic buildings.
The Fauquier Historical Society has done wonders to preserve this historic town. The historic district downtown features various architectural styles that have been lovingly maintained since 1982. You can even download and engage in your own architectural scavenger hunt.
Explore the Farmers Market.
Your first stop? The Warrenton Farmers Market! This open-air market (operating Saturday mornings from late April to late November) is your chance to stock up on fresh, seasonal produce, discover unique handmade goods from local artisans, and support the region’s economy.
At the market, located inside 18 Court Street and on Court and Hotel Streets in Old Town Warrenton, you can meet friendly vendors, learn about local agriculture, and buy one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Don’t forget to check their Facebook page for weekly specials and a chance to discover new local favorites showcased by guest vendors. This is the place to grab some breakfast on the go.
Stroll Main Street for its shops.
After getting into the local vibe at the Farmers Market, continue your journey with a fun shopping and art discovery tour.
Don’t miss the renowned Berkley Gallery on Main Street, which showcases traditional American paintings and sculptures. You’ll love The Book Cellar in Courthouse Square if you’re a bookworm.
Visit the Boujee Baker Boutique on North 5th Street to satisfy your sweet tooth. Drum & Strum Music Center on Main Street is great for music enthusiasts who want to experiment with different instruments.
Lastly, discover your inner artist at Earth, Glaze, and Fire on Main Street, where you can discover the world of pottery and ceramics.
Take a selfie with a mural.
But keep an eye out as you go; vibrant murals, such as the eye-catching “Be Kind. Spread Love,” offering a pop of color and personality around every corner.
Download a map online for a self-guided mural scavenger hunt, turning your downtown Warrenton trip into a fun and unforgettable exploration.
Grab a refreshing brew at Silver Branch Brewing Company.
Craving a delicious lunch and a refreshing craft brew after exploring Warrenton’s charming shops and vibrant murals? Well, the go-to spot is Silver Branch Brewing Company! This is perfect for both beer enthusiasts and hungry explorers. Indulge in a delicious meal paired with a handcrafted beer brewed in the Silver Branch tradition.
Their commitment to quality is evident in every sip, offering exceptional beers inspired by classic European and American styles. Prepare for a multi-dimensional taste experience with crisp Pilsners, refreshing Bavarian wheats, and juicy IPAs.
Silver Branch Warrenton Station is conveniently situated in the heart of Old Town Warrenton, right next to Main Street. The Warrenton Greenway Trail is also within walking distance, perfect for a post-lunch stroll.
PRO TIP: Download the Silver Branch Brewing Company app to browse their menu and beer selection before visiting!
Pick blooms at Seven Oaks Lavender Farm.
Depending on the season, after lunch, visit Seven Oaks Lavender Farm, a lovely family-owned business just outside Warrenton. Lose yourself in nature’s peaceful embrace as you walk through rows of colorful lavender, inhaling the soothing aroma and taking in the beautiful scenery. The knowledgeable staff will teach you all about the intriguing process of lavender cultivation, and for a truly therapeutic experience, indulge in picking your own lavender!
After picking your lavender, browse their extensive collection of over fifty handcrafted lavender products, from soothing lotions to aromatic candles. Find the perfect gift to add to the tranquility of your visit.
Admission is reasonable, with adults (16 and up) paying $8 and children (ages 4 and up) paying $6. This includes 20 stems of pick-your-own lavender, perfect for creating fragrant souvenirs. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online for your convenience.
Relax at Powers Farm Brewery.
After your tranquil getaway at Seven Oaks Lavender Farm, continue your discovery of Fauquier County’s unique flavors with a stop at Powers Farm Brewery. This isn’t just another brewery –it’s a celebration of sustainable agriculture and farm-to-table goodness.
Enjoy an excellent tasting experience by sampling beers made with the finest ingredients. Powers Farm Brewery harvests many essential ingredients on its two-and-a-half-acre farm, providing the best quality and unique flavor profile with every sip. Witness their commitment to sustainability firsthand – they use diverse and eco-friendly practices to cultivate exceptional crops.
Check their website or social media pages for upcoming events and farm tours to immerse yourself in this unique farm-to-flask experience fully!
Learn more at the Fauquier History Museum.
The Fauquier History Museum offers visitors a unique view into the history of Fauquier County. The museum opened in 1964 and is housed in the county’s historic jail, built in 1808 and expanded in 1823 and 1853. The old jail museum houses exhibits highlighting aspects of Fauquier County’s history.
Each exhibit has a unique story, ranging from early Native American artifacts and colonial-era antiquities to Civil War items and common items from the 19th and 20th centuries. Highlights include the original jail cells that housed prisoners for over a century, offering a heartbreaking view of 19th and early 20th-century penal conditions, and the Civil War exhibit, which explores Fauquier County’s important role during the conflict, featuring authentic uniforms, weapons, and personal stories of soldiers and civilians.
Additionally, you can learn about the daily lives of Fauquier County residents through displays of clothing, household items, and photographs from the 1800s to the mid-1900s.
Stroll Along the Warrenton Greenway Trail.
Fauquier County repurposed its former railroad track into a walking trail. The Warrenton Greenway Trail is a mostly flat, paved 2.22-mile trail. It is the perfect way to burn calories from eating local food and drinking beer and wine, and it takes you to some of the best spots in town!
PRO TIP: Visit the train turntable. You’ll hear an echo if you stand on the rock in the middle and face the wall!
Check out the Caboose and Former Railroad Track.
For a delightful mix of history and outdoor recreation, visit the Caboose and former railroad tracks at Warrenton Branch Greenway. This charming site offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a piece of the region’s railroad heritage while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The restored red caboose is a nostalgic reminder of the county’s rich railroading history.
Once an essential part of the railway system, the caboose served as the conductor’s office and living quarters on long journeys. It is meticulously preserved and provides an authentic glimpse into the past with interpretive displays describing the railroad’s history in Fauquier County and its role in its development. Both children and adults will love jumping aboard and discovering the various features of this historic railcar.
PRO TIP: The Caboose is open to visitors on the first Saturday of every month.
Visit the historic Airlie Hotel and Harry’s.
End your day at the historic Airlie Hotel. This three-story Georgian revival building was built as a private home in 1899. Following its destruction by a fire in 1924, the current two-story property was built. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the magnificent gardens, which are open to visitors and guests.
Partner that with a delightful dinner at Harry’s, the perfect definition of farm-to-table cuisine in a beautiful, rustic setting. The freshest, seasonal ingredients inspire Harry’s cuisine– their produce comes directly from Airlie’s fertile soil, ensuring vibrant flavors on your plate. Meat lovers can rejoice in pasture-raised perfection – Harry’s delectable dishes feature cuts of beef and pork raised right here at Airlie’s Berkshire Farm.
Don’t forget to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a table at Harry’s. Explore Airlie’s website for more information on their farm tours and reservations.
Discover a new favorite along the Barrels & Brews Trail.
With 33 wineries, breweries, and cideries, you will surely find something you love. This area of Virginia enjoys fertile lands, resulting in outstanding vineyards that create award-winning wines. Whether you prefer a hearty brew, a full-bodied glass of wine, or a light cider, you’ll find it in Warrenton and surrounding areas.
Download the interactive Barrels & Brews Trail for location information and pet-friendly facilities.
Witness world-class equestrian events.
Fauquier County is well-ensconced in the equestrian tradition. It hosts the Virginia Gold Cup Steeplechase, the nation’s longest-running horse show, and even the Olympic trials for equestrian events. The rolling lands at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains are home to many horse farms.
Visit the Warrenton Horse Show Grounds during special events, such as the Warrenton Horse Show. The event is typically held Labor Day Weekend and is an opportunity to see various horse-related events.
Explore Virginia Civil War Trails
If you’re a history buff, check out the Civil War trails in the area. Like many of the surrounding areas, the county saw many troop movements due to its proximity to Washington, DC. Fauquier County found itself occupied 67 different times. More details are in the downloadable Civil War Heritage and Civil War Battlefields brochures.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Fauquier County, VA
If, like me, you enjoy small towns with charming local shops and unique experiences, Warrenton is worth exploring. There’s a reason Warrenton and surrounding areas are known as Wine & Horse Country – you can mingle with the best of them at wineries and world-famous equestrian events. But I loved the easily walkable downtown with its splash of personality in the form of murals and other public art works!
I want to thank Visit Fauquier for hosting my visit. As always, my posts accurately reflect my experiences and opinions.
Check out these related posts:
- Amazing Things to Do in Culpeper
- 20+ Things to Do in Woodstock VA
- Lavender Farms You Can Visit in Virginia
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.