Be a Tourist In Your Own Town!

If you’re new to Arcadia Run and Manassas, Virginia, then you’ll love the idea of being a tourist in your new hometown. What better way to fully explore and enjoy this wonderful place you now call home? In fact, even if you’ve been in the area for a while, it’ll still be fun to hit all the most popular places in Manassas!

According to Apartment Guide, here are a few ways you can get to know your city like a true tourist:

Start Small

With all there is to do in Manassas and the surrounding area, it might be overwhelming to try and tackle it all in one day (if not impossible!). If you’ve just settled in your new apartment home at Arcadia Run, we suggest taking a stroll around the community to familiarize yourself with the amenities, walking trails, and your new neighbors. Use this time to seek out where you’ll go grocery shopping, any restaurants you’ll frequent or even parks you’ll want to enjoy a picnic in.

Utilize Maps, Guidebooks and Brochures

Now that you’re familiar with the Arcadia Run community, it’s time to really be a tourist. Head to the Manassas Visitor Center to pick up a few brochures and guidebooks. You’ll also find helpful information here about the Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express commuter trains.

Take Tours

While sifting through your brochures, keep an eye out for any guided tours through parks, or even Historic Manassas, that pique your interest. The Manassas National Battlefield Park offers several walking tours and the Manassas Museum even hosts monthly bike tours.

Visit Attractions

Whether you go on a guided tour or venture off on your own, visit all the notable attractions Manassas is known for. With several landmarks and historical buildings scattered throughout town, you’ll find a gem around every corner. Take a look at this Yelp page to see a list of attractions in Manassas.

With town-wide events, farmer’s markets throughout the summer months, and an endless list of things to do, Manassas is certainly a town you’ll love living in. And what could make living in Manassas even better? Living in a new modern apartment at Arcadia Run!  Check out our latest floorplans available to find the one that’s perfect for you.

Source: Apartment Guide

Reasons to Live in Northern VA

Northern Virginia is in the heart of it all and if you’re looking to lead an active lifestyle this is the place to be. There is so much to do for night owls and daytime adventurers alike. Here are just a few reasons why Northern, VA living is the way to go.

Museums and Monuments

Located near the Nation’s capital means tons of free museums and monuments to visit. But aside from what near-by DC has to offer, Northern Virginia has a lot of historical landmarks to visit as well. In fact, we have over 50 free museums and historical sites. From the George Washington Masonic Memorial to the National Inventors Hall of Fame, there’s endless fun for history buffs.

Fitness Enthusiasts 

If you are in to staying fit an active, then Northern Virginia is the place to be with over 20 5Ks, 10Ks and triathlons to choose from. And that’s just in the fall. Also, Turkey Trots are a popular event out here, so you’ll be sure to find one at a community near you.

Lifestyle Variety

One of the many things that make Northern Virginia unique is its lifestyle variety. Loudoun is great for those seeking a more rural, small-town feel while Arlington and Tyson Corner offer the hustle and bustle nightlife. And if you’re looking for a nice neighborhood suburb, you can find that too! There is truly a place to call home no matter what environment you’re looking for.

Shopping

If shopping is what your after, we have some very well-known destinations like The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City and Tysons Corner. And don’t forget about the Galleria, which is a very popular tourist location as well as a favorite stop for the locals.

Seasons

Northern Virginia prominently displays all four seasons with perfectly hot summers and beautifully snowy winters. We get the warm scenery of the changing leaves in the fall and nothing is quite as beautiful as the cherry blossoms in the spring.

 Outdoor Activities

There’s plenty to do outside in Northern Virginia with bike trails that extend through DC and all the way to West Virginia. There are plenty of youth and adult sports to get involved in and if you’re into boating, fishing or camping we have those options as well.

Nightlife

Northern Virginia is famous for its nightlife with restaurants and activities for all tastes. From sports bars and cocktails to music and dancing, there’s never a dull night out on the town. One of Northern Virginia’s claims-to-fame is the Wolf Trap National Park, which hosts a variety of concerts all year round.

With Phase 2 now open at Arcadia Run, it’s a perfect time to stop by and see if Northern Virginia living is a good fit for you!

Sources: nothernvirginiamag.com, about.com, arbourrealty.com

April Happenings in Manassas, VA

Ahh, it’s officially the spring season and we are so happy that it is! It’s finally warm enough to head outside and explore all that Manassas VA, home to Arcadia Run, has to offer.

Here’s a line up of all the fun happenings this April in Manassas!

First Friday: Founder’s Day!

This upcoming First Friday is certainly a special one – because it also coincides with Founder’s Day! Founder’s Day celebrates the Foundation of Manassas as an independent city, with participating First Friday shops and restaurants focusing on the history of our beloved Manassas. So make sure to head down to Historic Downtown from 6pm to 9pm this first Friday in April!

Browse Farmer’s Markets

The spring season also means Farmer’s Market open back up for business! In Manassas, we have several markets bringing fresh produce to shoppers weekly. Check out the markets and operating hours at the Harris Pavilion or in Lot B at Prince William and West Street.

Live Well Festival

This year on April 18th will be the 8th Annual Live Well Festival (formerly known as Spring Cleaning Day).  With a 5K Run, free health screenings at the Harris Pavilion, kid’s activities, entertainment and sidewalk sales, we think this festival is one of the best ways to kick off the spring season!

Saturday at the Park

Also on April 18th from 10am-3pm is the Saturday at the Park event at Manassas National Battlefield Park. Presented by Prince William County Public Schools and SPARK: The Education Foundation for PWCS, this is a wonderful way for you and your kids to explore the park and learn something new while you’re at it.  With different activity stations featuring everything from bird watching to water chemistry, this day is sure to be packed full of fun!

Pied Piper Theatre: Shrek the Musical

Coming to the Hylton Performing Arts Center this April is the Pied Piper Theatre with Shrek the Musical! This hysterical and adventurous musical is great for the whole family and will certainly be a wonderful weekend activity.  For ticket information and upcoming showtimes, visit the Hylton Performing Arts Center website.

Reasons Autumn is the Best Season to Move Into a New Apartment

Autumn is our favorite season here at Arcadia Run for a number of reasons. Simply put, everything is prettier in autumn. The novelties of fall and winter are still fresh and exciting, but the temperature hasn’t dropped to the winter norm yet. Autumn is the season best known for apple picking, pumpkin carving, hot apple cider and scenic drives through beautiful fall foliage. Not only is autumn a great time to partake in your favorite fall activities, it is also the best time of year to move into a new apartment! Below are a few reasons we believe autumn is the best season to move into a new apartment.

1. Perfect moving weather—a happy medium.

Everyone enjoys a sunny summer day, but most change their tune when the temperature starts hitting the mid-90’s. Summer is the best season to visit the beach or go sailing for the day, but heat and humidity make moving a miserable experience this time of year.

Most enjoy cuddling up next to their fireplace with a mug of hot apple cider, but few look forward to trekking through the snow to work to slipping on black ice when they walk up their front steps. Winter is not the best time to move either, with freezing cold temperatures and dangers like black ice and snow.

Though spring tends to be a medium of summer and winter, moving during this season tends to lead to more packing. Some are still wearing their heavy winter clothes or haven’t had time to pack their winter favorites away yet.

With crisp fall mornings and cool evenings, autumn is the best season for moving—it is a happy medium between summer and winter! By mid-autumn most are about to break out their sweaters and coats they packed away earlier in the summer once more. Why not move before breaking those boxes of cold weather clothes out again?

2. Save money on utilities.

Autumn tends to be the season with the mildest weather, which means you can turn off your air conditioning and enjoy the fall weather, which will help reduce your electric bill! While the weather is mild, take advantage of the climate and open your windows before the temperature starts to drop. Apartments generally use less water, power and gas than houses, which can save you money on your utility bills if you choose to lease an apartment in place of purchasing a house.

3. Snow Shoveling & Other Services

Are you the type of person who avoids mowing the lawn every month? Someone who enjoys watching the snowfall but dreads shoveling out the driveway and icing the path to your front door? Most apartment communities provide these services. While homeowners are pulling weeds or clearing their driveways and sidewalks of snow, apartment residents can relax, as Arcadia Run takes care of all of that for them.

4. Enjoy the fall festivities!

Autumn in most areas involves road trips to fall festivals, pumpkin patches and corn mazes. Manassas, VA is fortunate to have a number of fall-related events in the local area including the local farmers market—open every Thursday, fall festivals and spooky spirited tours. These events are yet another reason autumn is the best season to move into this area—there is so much going on!

The greater Manassas area has a number of fall events to enjoy including the Manassas Fall Jubilee and Oktoberfest.

Manassas 32nd Annual Fall Jubilee

Saturday, October 4th 10:00am-5:00pm

Manassas, VA

This year’s Manassas Fall Jubilee is free to the public and includes live music and entertainment for children and adults, over 100 craft and community booths, a pumpkin patch, wine tastings, and much more! Check out their website for more information.

4th Annual Oktoberfest

Saturday October 18th 11:00am-5:00pm

Haymarket, VA

Haymarket’s Annual Oktoberfest features music, pumpkin decorating, an assortment of German foods, draught beers and a Halloween costume contest. This event features over 100 booths and last year had over 10,000 attendees! For more information on Haymarket’s Annual Oktoberfest, visit their website.

As Manassas is a town known for its rich Civil War history, the town’s Spirit of Manassas tour is not one to pass up. The Spirit of Manassas tour series is led by the Manassas Museum through the streets of historic downtown Manassas, with many spooky stories and strange happenings from the past and present in the area. For more information on these Manassas tradition, visit their website.

The winter holidays are a very busy time for most; autumn is also the best season to move into a new apartment because it gives you time to move and get settled into your new apartment before the holidays. You’ll be ready to host family and friends in your new Arcadia Run apartment by Thanksgiving! Arcadia Run’s oversized kitchens are perfect to cook dinner for the whole family this holiday season. Fall is the best season to move into a new apartment, check out Arcadia Run’s available apartments for lease today!

Sources

http://enlightenme.com/top-10-rent-apartments/ 

http://www.realtor.com/advice/top-10-reasons-to-rent-rather-than-own/

http://renters.apartments.com/top-10-reasons-to-rent

http://www.virginiaapples.org/events/index.html

9 Summer Activities in Manassas

Manassas, Virginia, which is home to our Arcadia Run apartments, is also home to an abundance of activities and events throughout the year.  This summer has only just begun but there are already so many fun things lined up for the weeks ahead.  Take a look!

1. Visit the Farmer’s Market – One of the greatest perks to the warmer weather is the regular farmer’s market with fresh produce! The Harris Pavilion hosts a Farmer’s Market every Thursday from 7:30am to 1:00pm.  Stop by and pick up fresh fruits and vegetables for the entire week!

2. Catch an Outdoor Concert – With Jiffy Lube Live right around the corner, catching an outdoor summer concert is more convenient than ever.  Take a look at this summer’s line up; with so many different artists, there’s bound to be a performance you’ll love!

3. First Fridays – On the first Friday of every month, participating shops in Historic Downtown Manassas extend their hours and offer themed specials for patrons.  Shopping around downtown Manassas on a relaxing summer evening is a great way to unwind after the week.

4. Explore Culinary Attractions – Manassas has such a broad spectrum of attractions – exquisite dining options being one of them.  This summer, why not stroll around and discover a new favorite restaurant in town?  Take a look at this map to see what dining, and other attractions, are nearby Arcadia Run.

5. Manassas National Battlefield Park – If you live in Manassas but have yet to visit the Manassas Battlefield Park, you are long overdue! This famous historic site is worth visiting – especially on a beautiful summer day.

6. Get Crafty – With sites like Pinterest, it’s easy to feel crafty from time to time.  Take a look at our DIY Projects for the Home Board for a little inspiration!

7. Visit the Waterpark – Right here in Manassas is the SplashDown Waterpark, perfect for those exceptionally hot days.  It wouldn’t be summer vacation without a visit to the waterpark!

8. Bike Manassas  – On the 2nd Saturday of every month, join a bike tour that will take you around Manassas to showcase different historic sites around the city.  The tour runs about 8 miles and is appropriate for everyone over 12.  With the beautiful weather, this is a great excuse to get outside and explore Manassas in a unique way.

9. Fourth of July Fireworks – And finally, celebrate Independence Day with the City of Manassas at the Old Town Manassas Train Depot & Museum Lawn.  With live music, an apple pie baking contest, a watermelon eating contest, carnival attractions, and of course, fireworks, this will be a fun summer event for everyone.  More details can be found here!

May Events in Manassas!

Curious as to what’s happening in Manassas this May?  At Arcadia Run, we cater to the active lifestyle – and we know our residents enjoy all that this region, and this town, has to offer.  So we’ve gathered a few events to attend around this area this May that promise to entertain!

First Friday Spring Gallery Walk: May 1, 5:00pm

The first Friday of May will be the Gallery Walk in Historic Downtown Manassas.  Merchants and shop owners will be displaying the artworks of local and featured artists.  With the warm weather, this is a fun and relaxed Manassas tradition to partake in – stroll along and shop or just enjoy the views!

Historic Home Bike Tour: May 10, 9:00am

The Manassas Museum is leading a unique bike tour featuring several historic homes and sites in the Manassas area.  The tour begins at the museum and travels about 4 miles over the course of two hours.  This family friendly event is a great activity that promotes both history and health! Tickets can be purchased through the museum.

Manassas Ballet Theatre: Sleeping Beauty: May 17, 5:30pm

Visit the Hylton Performing Arts Center when they present Sleeping Beauty, a classic tale of good versus evil.  This ballet is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat, with enchanting choreography and excellent stage displays.  For ticket information, visit the Hylton Center website.

Ben Lomond Antique Rose Garden and Tea: May 24, 1:00pm-3:00pm

What better way to welcome the spring season than a tea party in one of the region’s largest antique rose gardens? Admission includes tea, refreshments, and a discussion on roses and spring flowers. Space is limited and reservations are required – this is an event everyone wants to go to!  Contact the Ben Lomond Historic Site & Old Rose Garden for more ticket information.

1st Annual Mid-County Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show: May 31, 8:00am

The last weekend in May, the Prince William Veterans Farm Club will be hosting this inaugural car show at the Prince William County Fairgrounds.  The event features fun, food, and eye-catching vehicles from all over the region.  Registration begins at 8:00am, followed by a judging at noon.  With live music, antique cars, moon bounces, and food and beverage options, this event is a great weekend activity!

Don’t forget to visit the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market every Saturday in parking lot B, West Street.  This farmer’s market has been voted one of the best in the area by Prince William Living magazine – it’s definitely worth a visit!

Choosing a Community That’s Right For You

With new apartment communities popping up all over the D.C. metro area, it seems like renters have endless selections.  However, many of these ‘apartment communities’ don’t offer much as far as a community goes, and many residents might not even know their neighbors!  At Arcadia Run, we have a different story.

Arcadia Run will soon grow to incorporate excellent planned amenities, including a swimming pool, clubhouse, fitness center and much more.  Our annual and seasonal events bring tenants together and foster lasting friendships between residents.  Think you’ll find this in any other apartment complex?  Think again!

So, when you’re looking for the right apartment community for you, here’s how you can tell you’ve found the one:

The Tenants Like It

Just take a look around; are the existing tenants happy living here?  Are they the type of people you can imagine yourself living next door to?  At Arcadia Run, it’s true – our residents do love living here, just take a look at our latest resident testimonial. If they enjoy it so much, you might too!

You Get Everything You Want

There’s no need to give and take when searching for a new apartment, especially not with Arcadia Run.  With the best features and finishes available, our apartments are every bit of luxury.  Residents don’t need to sacrifice one thing for another, they get it all with Arcadia Run!

You Can See Yourself Living There

If you can imagine yourself living in a luxury apartment, utilizing all that Manassas has to offer, socializing with your newest neighbors, and taking total advantage of the soon-to-be amenities at Arcadia Run, then yes, you’ll be a perfect fit at Arcadia Run!

Best of all, Arcadia Run offers more beyond the amenities and friendly neighbors.  Our luxury one- and two-bedroom apartments make living here the best choice.  With the newest appliances, tall ceilings, spacious floor plans, new carpeting and vinyl flooring, designer cabinets and even granite countertops, these apartments are everything residents look for and more.  Take a look at our available spaces and see for yourself – you’re going to love living at Arcadia Run!

February Happenings in Manassas

February may be the shortest month of the year, but that doesn’t mean there’s less to do!  If you live in Arcadia Run, you know the Manassas area always has something fun going on.  Here’s what residents can look forward to this month:

2/8/14 – Reflections Exhibit & Reception, 6:00 pm

Celebrate internationally recognized African-American artists from the University of Maryland David C. Driskell Arts Center at the Reflections exhibit hosted in the Center for the Arts.  This remarkable event is free and open to the public.  During this showing, there will be a wine and cheese reception for guests.  For more information, visit www.pwcacdst.org.

2/8/14 – Imago Theatre – FROGZ, 2:00 pm

Performing at the Hylton Center, this popular dance troupe brings a truly unique performance to the area.  With circus inspired acts and a theatrical flair, this is a show the whole family can enjoy.  This troupe has even had two stints on Broadway – a must see if you live in Manassas! To buy tickets, visit the Hylton Center website.

2/18/14 – Matinee Idylls: Marcolivia, 12:30 pm

Head over to the Gregory Family Theater to catch a performance by the award-winning violin duo Marcolivia. Marcolivia brings a diverse set list of Baroque folk-dance tunes that inspire and entertain.  Attendees have the option of a buffet lunch catered by a local Manassas restaurant before the show, and afterwards, guests can enjoy a coffee and dessert reception with the artists.  This is a wonderful daytime outing!  More information about this event can be found on the Hylton Center event calendar.

2/22/14 – Silver Sparkles Family Fun Event, 2:00 pm

The Silver Sparkles event will be held at the Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center and includes a day packed full of fun activities for everyone to enjoy. With balloon art, magic demonstrations, face painting and more, this event is the perfect weekend activity.  Best of all, proceeds benefit brain tumor research.  For ticket information and a list of participating businesses, visit their Eventbrite page.

2/26/14 – The Peking Acrobats, 7:30 pm

If you want to be shocked and awed, check out The Peking Acrobats show at Merchant Hall in late February.  Audiences will be “left speechless” after watching this extraordinary acrobatic performance.  This is bound to be a show you won’t forget!  Buy your tickets here!

 

Holiday Events in Manassas

It’s official! The holidays are upon us! What do our Arcadia Run residents have planned for the coming weeks? In Manassas, there’s so much fun stuff to do that it can be hard to only choose a few activities! So, we’ve put together a list of classic Manassas events happening over the next week to get our tenants into the holiday spirit. Enjoy!

‘Merry Old Town’ Celebration – 12/6/13
Residents of Manassas know not to miss the “Merry Old Town” celebration in Old Town Manassas starting at 5:30pm! Meet Santa at the Manassas Depot to skate at the Harris Pavilion ice rink and ride around Old Town on a free hayride. Afterwards, head over to The Manassas Museum for their annual Holiday Open House. Enjoy hot cider, cookies, visits with Santa and the annual tree lighting on the Museum lawn.

Danú: Christmas in Ireland – 12/6/13
Want to hear traditional Celtic Christmas music? The award-winning group, Danú, performs traditional Irish music of the season at the Hylton Performing Arts Center at 8:00pm. For more information on how you can purchase tickets for you and your family, visit www.HyltonCenter.org or call 888-945-2468.

A Rippon Lodge Christmas – 12/7/13
Want to discover a little Manassas history with your holiday festivities? You’ll love the candlelight tour of Rippon Lodge to experience holiday celebrations from colonial Virginia. Tours are on the half hour, and they fill up quickly! Be sure to make your reservations early by calling 703-499-9812.

Manassas Chorale: ‘Tis the Season – 12/7/13
The evening following Danú’s performance, there will be two showings of the Manassas Chorale: ‘Tis the Season at the Hylton Center. This is a great show that everyone will enjoy! Find more ticket information at www.HyltonCenter.org.

Winter Wonderland Train Show – 12/11/13 through 12/15/13
Love trains? Then you’ll love the Winter Wonderland Train Show taking place at the Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory. In lieu of an admission fee, a donation of canned goods or unwrapped toys to benefit SERVE will be accepted. This magical and festive exhibition is open from 5-8pm on weekdays, 10am-5pm on Saturday, and 10am-4pm on Sunday.

Arcadia Run Holiday Party – 12/14/13
Arcadia Run is also hosting a holiday party on December 14. Santa will be paying a special visit to our apartment community, complete with a Santa train for children to ride, free pictures with Santa himself, Christmas carolers and holiday treats provided by R & R Catering. Don’t miss this chance to meet and mingle with your new neighbors and pass along the holiday cheer!

11 Things to Do in Manassas

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We already know that Arcadia Run is located in one of the most charming towns in Virginia. But Manassas, VA is also filled with plenty of fun things to do for people with all interests. Whether you’re searching for adventure or a relaxing evening, here are 11 of the many things to do in Manassas:

1. Brush up on your history: If you’re a history buff, you’re in luck. Manassas is completely immersed in American history – there are numerous Civil War sites and historical buildings. You could visit the Manassas National Battlefield Park or any of the buildings listed on the historic registry.

2. Grab a bite to eat: Hungry? Perfect! Manassas has many restaurants like Foster’s Grille and Zabb Thai that are local favorites. Explore the dining scene and find a new favorite dish!

3. The Candy Factory: This historic building, which was once a busy candy factory, now hosts the Center for the Arts. They welcome nearly 15,000 visitors a year and introduce new art to people of all ages.

4. Escape: Stressful week? Visit any of the spas right here in Manassas. You can choose from LaFemme, Escape, Harmony and many more.

5. Go to a play: Vpstart Crow Productions at the Cramer Center is the only professional theatre company in our area. From Shakespeare to contemporary playwrights, Vpstart Crow Productions is one of the best and always puts on a great show.

6. Bull Run Regional Park Shooting Center: With five different shooting games and a Learn-To-Shoot class, newcomers and veterans alike will have a great time at the range.

7. BadWolf Brewing Company: This local brewery focuses on making quality craft beers that appeal to the residents of Manassas. At their brewery, you can bring your own food or order delivery to enjoy with their beer.

8. The Harris Pavilion: This pavilion changes with the seasons: In the spring and summer it’s open for concerts and performances. Then in November, it’s transformed into an open-air ice rink. No matter the season, there’s always something fun to do at the pavilion!

9. Fly: American Aviation Services offers flight lessons with a FAA certified instructor at the Manassas Regional Airport. Students will get to take control of the plane themselves and fly. What a thrill!

10.Race: After flying a plane, why not drive a racecar? TryRacingCars.com has a location in Manassas that allows guests to learn how-to instructions of real life racecar driving.

11.Mary Louise Jackson Amphitheater: Everything from musical performance and international festivals to plays and local entertainment visit this amphitheater to perform. With seating for 750 people, any performance is bound to be a good time.