The Manassas Railway Festival is Coming Down the Line

There would be no Manassas if it wasn’t for the railroad.

What started as just a place where railroads met grew into the wonderful town we know and love today.

Every year, we salute the history of the railroads and their importance to Manassas with a celebration of history and ingenuity, coupled with memorabilia, special vendors, and fun live performances.

That’s why we’re so excited for the 26th Annual Manassas Heritage Railway Festival on June 5: one of our favorite Manassas, VA events!

Let’s learn a little more about the history of the railroad in Manassas and a little more about what you can expect at the festival.

Manassas Comes to the Railroad

What we know as Manassas started as Manassas Junction: a crossroads with railroad tracks that led to Richmond, the Shenandoah Valley, and Washington, D.C. It was where the Orange and Alexandria Railroad (O&A) and the Manassas Gap Railroad (MGRR) met.

The O&A railroad stretched in many directions, also connecting to the Virginia Central and Virginia & Tennessee Railroads. Stops along the O&A included: Alexandria, Springfield, Fairfax, Culpeper, Orange, and traveled on Virginia Central tracks all the way to Charlottesville and Lynchburg.

The MGRR began construction in 1851, and by 1859, it stretched through Manassas Gap and into the Shenandoah Valley. It was originally planned to extend through Loudon County, too, but the Civil War got in the way and construction ceased.

During the Civil War, the ability to transport troops, weapons, and meat along these supply lines was invaluable. In fact, the MGRR became the first American railroad to move troops into battle.

It makes sense, then, that the First and Second Battles of Bull Run took place nearby, as Manassas Junction was so strategically important! And while Confederate forces won both battles, Manassas Junction remained mostly under Union control for the duration of the war.

But these railroads didn’t just fade after the war. Before and after, they moved goods and supplies both from and to local farmers and businesses faster and for far less money than any other transportation method. Railroads helped the area prosper, and since so many trains were passing through Manassas Junction, eventually a town formed.

And so, we celebrate the importance of the railroads to Manassas with this annual event.

Things to Find at the Manassas Heritage Railway Festival

Called “Train Day” by us locals, the Manassas Heritage Railway Festival is full of all sort of sights and sounds to experience. Throughout the day, live performances will fill the air, complementing the various whistles of visiting trains.

And you will see trains of all shapes and sizes. Commuter and freight trains stop by for this glorious event, as do (schedules permitting) more classic trains. Plus, model railroads are on display letting your imaginations explore even more tracks and vistas.

But a festival isn’t complete without things to buy and stuff to eat, and the Manassas Heritage Railway Festival is no exception. Train memorabilia vendors will be everywhere, ready to help you bring a little of the festival home with you. Because nothing is more fun that the drive home when you’re wearing your very own engineer’s cap!

At Arcadia Run, you’re always close to something amazing because history abounds in every direction. Old Town Manassas is just 14 minutes away, and Bull Run Regional Park (where those battles mentioned above took place) is less than 10 miles away. Living at Arcadia Run puts you in the middle of everything, which is why living here is so much fun.

Coming June 5, in the heart of Old Town Manassas, VA, enjoy an event like no other. For more information on the 26th Annual Manassas Heritage Railway Festival, click here.

Must-Dos When Touring An Apartment Community

When you are visiting apartment communities, it’s exciting to know that a new beginning is in your future! While there are some obvious things you will do on your visits, like tour the apartments and amenities, you may forget about other important factors if you feel overwhelmed or too excited during your visit. Because we want you to be fully prepared and certain that Arcadia Run is right for you, take a look at our must-dos when touring an apartment community!

Get to know the features

Before you even arrive at an apartment community, make sure you have a list of what you are looking for in an apartment home. When you tour the model apartment, be sure to ask questions about standard features, the different types of floorplans available, and any policies for the units. Arcadia Run’s apartment homes are among the best in the area, with modern features, appliances, an in-unit washer and dryer, and more storage space than many apartment communities today.

Discover the amenities

We know that an apartment home will probably be the most important thing contributing to your decision, but the amenities are a big factor to consider as well! At Arcadia Run, visitors have been blown away by our modern amenities time and time again, and we know you will be too! Our new amenities include a resort-style pool, ball court, large fitness center, lounges, theater, playground, and so much more! The most important part of discovering the amenities is to be observant so that you have the chance to bring up any questions you may have.

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Learn about maintenance

You don’t want to move into an apartment community without knowing that the management has your back when it comes to apartment repairs. No matter how new an apartment building is, there is always the chance that an emergency repair could be needed. At Arcadia Run, we have 24/7, emergency maintenance on call, so you can live worry-free and remain safe in your new apartment home.

Talk to some of the residents

The best way to get to know an apartment community is to speak to residents who already live there! While you are exploring the amenities and beautifully landscaped grounds at Arcadia Run, strike up a conversation. Ask residents to share their favorite things about the community, what kinds of social events take place, how long they have lived there, etc. Our residents here at Arcadia Run are truly some of the best around.

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Sit down with the leasing staff

You might feel shy or hesitant to ask questions about the community and apartment homes, but this is what our amazing leasing staff is here for! At Arcadia Run, you can schedule an appointment with any of our leasing staff professionals who are always willing to help with any questions or concerns you may have. Take some time to get to know them and sit down to discuss your wants and needs for things like floor plans, living with a pet, etc.

Learn about conveniences provided

Apartment living is popular because of the amazing conveniences that this lifestyle offers! Arcadia Run goes above and beyond to make sure that living in our new apartment home community means less time worrying and more time enjoying. Some of our conveniences include a school bus stop on site, an open parking policy, easy online rent paying services, a mail concierge, 24-hour cyber café with free printer and coffee bar, and more.

Explore the neighborhood

Sure, you can visit our website and see some of the nearby restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues on a map, but there is nothing like getting to know the area first-hand. Drive around the Gateway Center and Promenade Commons to discover your favorite new stores, or take a quick drive to Downtown Manassas to soak in some history and try a few local eats.

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If you’re ready to come visit Arcadia Run and find out why this is the perfect apartment community for you, schedule and appointment online or give us a call!

Spring 2018 Events to Look Forward to in Manassas

One of the many benefits of living close to a place like Historic Downtown Manassas, is that there is never a shortage of awesome events throughout all four seasons of the year! Just minutes from Arcadia Run, take a look below at all of the events you can look forward to this spring season:

 

Historic Manassas Spring Restaurant Week – March 19th to 25th

Take advantage of some great offers at your favorite local Manassas restaurants including Monza, Carmello’s, Zandra’s Taqueria and more! Offers include 2 for $25 and 3 for $35. Click here for more information and kick off the spring season with tasty deals.

 

Hop Around Downtown – March 25th to March 31st

If you’re looking to go on a shopping spree soon, look no further than Downtown Manassas during the Hop Around event. With each purchase at a participating store, you will have a chance to win a prize!

 

Mariachis Tequileria Kegs ‘n Eggs Craft Beer Fiesta – March 31

With over 30 beers to sample, live music for your dancing pleasure, awesome food, and even an “adult egg hunt”, this is an event you don’t want to miss if you are a fan of craft beer!

 

April Showers Bridal Show – April 8th

If you are one of those lucky someones getting ready for your wedding day, be sure to attend the April Showers Bridal Show! See gorgeous wedding dresses up close and personal, learn some pro tips from professionals in the industry, and enjoy hors d’oeuvres.

 

12th Annual Live Well Festival – April 21st

You’ve promised yourself that this was going to be the year you took care of your health, and what better way to kick it off than with this annual festival? With plenty of health-centered activities, vendors, and more, in addition to 5k, 10k, and 1 mile runs, be sure to stop by!

 

10th Annual Band Festival – April 22nd

For the tenth year in a row, join the rest of the music lovers in Manassas by heading on over to the Harris Pavilion for a day filled with live performances from some of your favorite local bands!

 

Community Reading Festival – April 28th

This family friendly event comes to the heart of Manassas for a great time focused on education. Visit the Harris Pavilion for free books, giveaways, a variety of crafts, and live music playing through the air.

Apartment Trends to Try Now!

Another year has come and gone which means it’s once again that time when you feel like your apartment home needs a refresh. Fear not, because we have collected all of the apartment trends for 2018 in one place just for you to make sure you are in the know about what is looking hot right now. Whether you want an entire apartment re-do or you just want to swap out a few stale accessories, we have the scoop on what everyone is predicting will be the big bad wolf of décor trends in 2018!

 

The happiest color of the rainbow: Yellow

If you have been to our model apartment home here at Arcadia Run, you know that we love the color yellow. It is truly one of those colors that can brighten up any room and put you in a good mood whenever you walk in! If it’s too bright or loud for you, go for a pastel shade or include yellow hues in accents throughout your apartment instead of a large piece.

 

‘70s style

We know that there are many people who wish that style from the 70’s never came back, but this year, we are putting a modern twist on the classic trends from this decade. Earthy and olive tones, fuzzy rugs, wood, and lots of plants are sure to make a resurgence in the popular home goods stores.

 

Modern inspiration from Italy

One of our favorite places to find this style is over at CB2, Crate & Barrel’s more modern younger sibling. The ultra-modern furniture silhouettes and gold-focused accessories will give any space a luxe look straight out of a modern-day Italian loft.

 

Mixed metallics

If you are one of those people who can’t decide between silver and gold, this year, you’re in luck! Mixing metals is one of the newest trends we will start seeing, and we are all about it. M

 

Pattern and more pattern

Although some of the more traditional designers will say that mixing patterns is crazy, we think it’s a great way to create a fun living space. The trick to pattern is choosing specific color schemes that are found throughout all of the textiles in your apartment home.

 

Wabi-Sabi

This Japanese inspired design can make your apartment home even more of a relaxing space. Think spa meets sushi restaurant when it comes to the details. Woven textures, lots of candles, and ancient-looking vases are some of the key elements when looking to incorporate this trend.

 

If you’re ready to find your perfect apartment home to decorate with the latest trends, visit us at Arcadia Run in Manassas, VA today!

 

Sources: apartmenttherapy.com, realtor.com

Sweet Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Your Apartment Home

 

Whether you like or hate Valentine’s Day, there is always a way to enjoy yourself on this day of celebrating love! If you’re not looking to go out and get fancy, there are so many ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day right from your brand new apartment home at Arcadia Run.

 

DIY Tasting

Visit Pinterest for ideas on how to create a tasting in your own apartment home! It can be with chocolate, beer, whatever you’re interested in. Make a cute little setup on the kitchen island for you and your special someone or a group of friends. Even better – make it a blind tasting and guess the things you are tasting to see who gets the most right.

 

Romantic dinner

If you and your significant other want to have a nice sit-down dinner without shelling out tons of cash in a nice restaurant, make a meal at home! Make your own fondue spread, order in and put everything on fancy plates with candles, or create a home-cooked meal from a family recipe.

 

Movie Marathon

Whether you want to gather some of your all-time favorite movies or choose a selection of films that you haven’t seen yet, movie marathons are a couch potato’s dream. Sit back and relax with your favorite snacks in your own apartment home on your own comfy couch. We know you’ll want to make it an annual Valentine’s Day tradition.

 

Spa night

By yourself or with company, what better than to pamper yourself in the comfort of your own home? Before the evening, go to the dollar store or even a drug store and grab some skincare, body care, nail care, etc. that will give you a refreshing spa experience. You can even prepare some healthy snacks, cucumber water, and sweet treats to enjoy!

 

Galentine’s Day

Especially when everyone has a job, pets, significant others, etc., it’s rare that you can get together with a group of girlfriends and catch up! Have everyone bring a snack or food item to enjoy and binge watch one of your favorite reality TV series or pick a classic game to play.

 

Guys night

Take a few cues from your favorite movies and set up a cool poker night or get your buddies together for a video game tournament! Nothing says, “I appreciate your friendship” more than some healthy competition with your best guy friends. For food, buy a bunch of sandwich ingredients and let everyone make their own sub sandwiches – we know everyone has their own go-to sandwich combo!

 

With so many ways to celebrate this holiday of love in your own apartment home at Arcadia Run, you may never go out again!

Predicting the Most Sought-After Apartment Amenities in 2018

As apartment communities cater more and more to a modern lifestyle that requires additional conveniences than in previous years, renters begin to put more features and amenities on their must-haves list. In 2017, National Apartment Association gathered data giving insights in to the modern apartment renter and what they will be looking for when choosing a community in 2018. If you’re looking for a new apartment in Manassas, VA, see how Arcadia Run stacks up to the current list of the most sought-after amenities as told by Real Estate Weekly.

 

Package system

With the popularity of online retailers at an all-time high, and many people using online delivery services for everyday needs, this should come at no surprise to all of you Amazon lovers out there. Arcadia Run makes it easy for our residents with a package concierge service.

 

Being online

In a day where internet is now a necessity for most jobs and many types of communication, it is no wonder that being connected is so sought after by apartment renters today. Not only is it easy to gain access to internet services in your new apartment home at Arcadia Run, but our clubhouse also has a cyber café where residents can use our desktop computers and printer for free!

 

Beauty and The Building

See what we did there? More and more, renters are not only looking for great amenities and a great location, but the importance of having a visually appealing apartment is becoming higher one everyone’s lists. With phenomenons like Pinterest and Instagram, #apartmentgoals are more relevant than ever.

 

Parking

Especially with apartment communities or buildings in large cities or crowded suburbs, parking can be a rare amenity for renters today. At Arcadia Run, our open parking policy ensures that all of our residents have room for their cars, and also have room for guests to visit without the hassle of guest passes.

 

Fitness center

According to the National Renters Association, more than 80% of renters across the United States want a fitness facility in their apartment community. Not only do we have two specialized fitness center rooms for all of your workout needs, but Arcadia Run also offers free weekly fitness classes to residents!

 

Pet-Friendly

For anyone who has a pet, any apartment community that is not pet-friendly would automatically be crossed off the list. Luckily, Arcadia Run is one of the most pet-friendly communities in the area, creating a hub of puppy friends to be made in 2018.

 

Did we mention that all of these apartment amenities, services, and features are exclusively for Arcadia Run residents? Stop by for a visit today to experience what could be your brand new lifestyle here at Arcadia Run!

 

Sources: rew-online.com

 

 

 

Apartment Living With Pets 101

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We won’t lie to you, living with pets in an apartment can be a ruff adjustment, we will also tell you that it is very worth is to be able to live with your best furry friend! Here at Arcadia Run, all of our brand new apartments are pet-friendly so if you are moving into your first apartment or even moving from a single-family home, you can bring Winston with you! Take a look at our advice and tips for living in an apartment community with your pet!

 

Give them their own spot

Even if your new apartment home at Arcadia Run is not the definition of tight quarters, there is still limited space for pets to be sleeping, eating, and running around. Set up a corner or area in your apartment home that is just for your pet! With Pinterest at the ready, there are so many ways that you can create a little pet oasis that is functional, but still visually appealing.

 

Make friends

Living in an apartment community gives you the opportunity to not only make new friends for yourself, but for your pet too! There are many residents here at Arcadia Run who also have loving pets that need company, so the next time you see another resident walking their dog, say hello and set up a doggie play date.

 

Give them plenty of exercise

Although our apartments are spacious enough to live with pets, they still need plenty of exercise. Not only does this mean going outside, but also playing, walking, running, and any kind of movement! With open grassy areas and winding sidewalk paths throughout our apartment home community, there is space to get in plenty of exercise for your pet each day.

 

Take them outside as much as possible

Pets need lots and lots of exercise to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle, but they are also animals and need to be able to get fresh air and roam free (on a leash). To keep your pets at their best, take them outside even more than you think they need to be. This will keep your pet happy and healthy for many years to come.

 

Get into a routine

As creatures of habit, pets can quickly learn a routine that works ideally for your busy schedule. Take them outside similar times each day, feed them at similar times each day, and use actions or signals to declare a time of the day like bedtime. The most accustomed your pet is to a routine, the happier they will be living here in Arcadia Run. They will be less stressed and nervous about getting everything they need for a great life.

 

See? This doesn’t sound so bad does it! Don’t forget to ask all of our residents here at Arcadia Run how their pets like living the good life. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly apartment community, this could be the one for you!

Top Tips for Hosting Holiday Gatherings in Your Apartment Home

Group of cheerful young people enjoying food and drinks while spending nice time in comfortable chairs on the kitchen together

Even though it is one of the most exciting times of the year, hosting during the holiday season can be challenging and stressful in any situation. It is important to be prepared for what lies ahead, especially in an apartment home where space to host more than a few guests can be limited. To ensure you have a successful holiday gathering in your Arcadia Run apartment home, get your chef’s hat on and take a look at some of our most helpful tips for getting the gang together to celebrate this season!

 

Adjust as necessary

It is probably hard to imagine hosting a holiday gathering, large dinner party, or even a small wine tasting in your apartment home with limited square footage. To make your space seem larger, change around your setup temporarily to fit an extra-long table, a few different hors d’oeuvres stations, or an empty room for dancing. If you realize you need additional seating or supplies last minute, call up your neighbor-turned-friend and ask to borrow some in exchange for holiday baked goods.

 

Use your imagination

Sturdy boxes, floor pillows, and end tables can be chairs too you know! Getting creative with your resources is a great way to save some money and also get an A+ for originality. If you don’t have a tablecloth big enough for the monstrous dining table you set up across the entire room, overlay a few different ones for a patchwork effect. Looking for some cool centerpieces but don’t want to put in the cash? Buy a few decorative items from the dollar store and spray paint them gold!

 

Make the food prep easy on yourself

Preparing food and snacks ahead of time will make your holiday gathering much easier on everyone in attendance, specifically you and your roommates. Find dishes, appetizers, and beverages that you can prepare ahead of time and take straight out of the fridge or warm up in the oven before the party. Our upgraded kitchens in every Arcadia Run apartment home allow a ton of space to get everything ready with ease. The point of hosting an event is to enjoy the company of people who you care about, not to enjoy the company of your oven!

 

Do your best to let loose

There is nothing worse than attending a holiday gathering and feeling like a nuisance rather than a welcomed guest. If you are the host, try to keep your cool, and if you prepare for the event ahead of time, this won’t be a problem! Don’t let little snags get you down and make sure to leave all of the clean-up for the next day – after all, you deserve it for throwing an amazing party!

 

Head on over to our Pinterest page for more tips and tricks or visit our website to find the perfect apartment home for entertaining this year!

Celebrate Virginia Wine Month Near Arcadia Run

 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! No, it’s not Christmas yet, but October is Virginia Wine Month! Whether you like a robust red, crisp white, rosé all day, or prefer some bubbles, it’s time to pour yourself a glass (or 2) and start celebrating! Virginia has a rich history that includes many vineyards and wineries located throughout the state, including several near Arcadia Run. Grab a friend and a designated driver and head to one of these great places to celebrate Virginia Wine Month during October!

 

Paradise Springs Winery

Called “The Gateway to Virginia Wine Country,” Paradise Springs Winery is located on a property in Clifton that dates all the back to 1716! Paradise Springs offers tastings, tours, and you can even reserve their space for private events. They also give wine lovers a little taste of everything, with a wide selection of whites and reds, and also carry rosé and sparkling wine.

 

Aroma Wine Tasting Room

Don’t feel like making a full day trip out to a winery? Head to the new Aroma Wine Tasting Room right here in Manassas! Part of the Marais Vineyards and Winery family, this new tasting room offers all of the same wines that you can get at their winery. While no outside food is permitted, they do serve tasting plates with the wine tasting and offer a charcuterie plate for purchase. Try their award-winning Battlefield green wine, or a glass of their delicious Merlot.

 

The Winery at Bull Run

Enjoy a crisp fall day out on the farm at the Winery at Bull Run. Bring your friends, some blankets, and start sipping! Drop by for a spur of the moment tasting, or bring a whole group (perfect for bachelorette parties!). This fall, they are even offering haunted wine tours on Fridays throughout the month of October. Their wines are made with 100% Virginia grapes, meaning they are all local and all delicious. If you’re still holding on to summer, try their fruit peach wine, or if you’re looking for something more robust, try the 2015 Reconciliation, perfect for fall with hints of coffee and plum.

 

Vint Hill Craft Winery

Talk about crafty… Vinty Hill Craft Winery can’t be found on GPS! Being located on a former covert Army base just adds to the charm of this urban winery focused on the craft of making homemade wine. Try their award-winning Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot at one of their events, such as Ladies Night, or just drop by for a tour and tasting!

 

Celebrate Virginia Wine Month right at home at Arcadia Run by stopping by one of our Wine Wednesday’s in the clubhouse! Learn more about all Arcadia Run has to offer by visiting us online.

Fall Design Trends to Freshen Up Your Apartment Home

Now that you’ve cleaned out your pool bag and put away your summer clothes, it’s time to dive head first into fall at Arcadia Run! Besides your daily pumpkin spiced latte, there are several other ways to celebrate the best of the seasons. If you’re looking to freshen up your apartment home this fall, whether you want to be more organized or you’re looking to spruce up your interior décor, there are several emerging trends that will make your apartment #goals. Check out some of our favorite trends that we know will look great in your new apartment home here at Arcadia Run!

 

Quilts

Darn, you knew you should’ve kept that quilt that Great Aunt Susan gave you years ago. Whether you want to replace your duvet or comforter, or just want a big blanket to wrap around you, quilts are coming back into style this fall. The different patterns and colors will give your apartment a cozy feel for those chilly nights spent watching Hocus Pocus and munching on candy corn.

 

Blush Pink

Man’s greatest question: What exactly is millennial pink? And does blush fall under that category? If so, we don’t mind. As a soft, light color, blush goes well with the bold colors of fall, such as red, gold, and brown. Add in pops of blush around your apartment, such as a pillow, blanket, or even bath towels. If you want to channel your inner Elle Woods, add some blush to your wardrobe this fall. That goes for you too, gentleman!

 

Brass

While we’ll never give up our beloved copper Moscow mule mugs, brass is seeing a resurgence this season. We don’t recommend going all out with an ornate brass chandelier, but subtle touches of brass around your apartment are a great way to add some sophistication to your décor. Put some of your favorite pictures from the summer in brass picture frames, or use brass votive holders for those fall-scented candles you can smell from down the hall.

 

Matte Black

If you’re not sipping your pumpkin spiced latte out of a matte black travel mug, are you even drinking a PSL? Matte black is a great way to show your edgy side without getting too witchy this fall. Try placing matte black vases on your end tables or your counter, perfect for holding those fall flowers. If you really want to impress guests, use matte black silverware and dishes when having dinner this fall.

 

Trick or Texture

No, it’s not a trick. Texture is one of the best parts of the fall season. From smooth apples, to soft blankets, there are several ways to highlight the fun textures of the season in your apartment home. Bring the colorful trees inside with fake branches and leaves for a stunning centerpiece, or pile different blankets (wool, chenille, cashmere, etc) in a basket. For the DIY-ers out there, welcome friends into your home with a festive fall wreath on your door, made out of burlap or ribbon.

 

Let us know what fall design tips worked for you this season! Learn more about all that Arcadia Run has to offer at www.arcadiarun.com.

 

Sources: countryliving.com, bhg.com, instyle.com, averageinspired.com,