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Looking for a peaceful escape in Northern Virginia? Head to Warrenton! Nestled in the heart of Fauquier County, Warrenton blends small-town charm with scenic landscapes, Civil War history, and rolling wine country. Whether you're into antiques, wine tasting, or outdoor adventure, Warrenton offers a relaxed and cultured getaway.
Warrenton, VA Highlights:
- For History Lovers: Explore the Old Jail Museum – Tour an original 1808 jail filled with Civil War stories and local artifacts.
- For Wine Enthusiasts: Sip and relax at Mediterranean Cellars – Enjoy scenic vineyards, tastings, and picnic spots in wine country.
- For Couples: Stroll charming Main Street – Browse antique shops, art galleries, and dine in cozy cafés and bistros.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike the Warrenton Branch Greenway – A tranquil trail ideal for walking, biking, or a peaceful jog.
- For Families: Visit Airlie Center and Farm – Explore gardens, walking trails, and an educational sustainable farm.
🌤 When I like to visit Warrenton, VA
The best time to visit Warrenton is in spring and fall (April–June and September–October) for mild weather, vibrant foliage or blooms, and prime wine-tasting season. Fall festivals and harvest events also draw visitors from across the region.
🗺 My tips for getting to Warrenton, VA
- If you are traveling by car: Located off US-29 and US-17, Warrenton is about 1 hour from Washington, D.C., and easily accessible from I-66.
- By Train: The nearest Amtrak stations are in Manassas and Culpeper, both within 30–40 minutes by car.
- By Air: Fly into Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), located about 45 miles northeast of Warrenton.
🏬 Where I like to stay in Warrenton, VA
- Recommended for Families: Hampton Inn Warrenton – Comfortable and convenient lodging with a pool, free breakfast, and close proximity to downtown.
- For Couples: Black Horse Inn – A romantic, historic B&B with elegant rooms, equestrian charm, and garden views.
- For a Boutique Stay: Airlie – A scenic retreat and conference center with walking trails, farm-to-table dining, and serene grounds.
😍 Best Things to Do in Warrenton, VA
1. Step Into the Past: Explore Fascinating Tales at The Fauquier History Museum
© The Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail
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What is The Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail?
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What is the history of the building?
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The building operated as a jail from 1808 until 1966 before being converted into a museum showcasing the area’s history.
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What exhibits can visitors see?
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The museum houses many exhibits covering a variety of topics, including:
- Warrenton Businesses
- The Civil War
- A Colonial Kitchen
- Maximum Security Cell Block
10 Ashby St, Warrenton, VA 20186, Phone: 540-347-5525
2. Sip With a View: If You Love Mediterranean-Style Wines, Then Visit Molon Lave Vineyards
© Molon Lave Vineyards
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What is Molon Lave Vineyards?
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The family-owned and operated
Molon Lave Vineyards
is a wine estate set on approximately fifty pristine acres of farmland
in the winery-filled town of Warrenton.
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What types of grapes are grown at the vineyard?
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The vineyard consists of over 10 varieties of grapes and approximately nine acres of fruit.
Estate-grown grapes include:
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Cabernet Franc
- Merlot
- Chambourcin
- Vidao
- Riesling
- Chardonnay
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Does the vineyard produce any unique wines?
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Molon Lave Vineyards produces a traditional Greek-style Rosé called Kokineli and is
Virginia’s first winery to make Kosher wines.
10075 Lees Mill Rd, Warrenton, VA 20186, Phone: 540-439-5460
3. Taste Tradition: Relax and Unwind Among the Vines at Mediterranean Cellars
© Mediterranean Cellars
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What is Mediterranean Cellars?
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Mediterranean Cellars
is a family-owned and operated winery located in Warrenton, Virginia.
With more than 40 years of experience in winemaking, the winery has been producing
both regional and classic varietals since opening at its current location on Falcon Glen Road in 2003.
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What can visitors expect at Mediterranean Cellars?
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Visitors will find New World, fine quality wine varieties,
gorgeous views from an inviting tasting room or comfortable outdoor patio,
and an “Old World atmosphere.”
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What types of wines are produced at the winery?
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Mediterranean Cellars offers a wide variety of wines, including:
- Chardonnay
- Riesling
- Pinot Grigio
- Moscato
- Viognier
- Vidal Blanc
- Chambourcin
- Merlot
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
8295 Falcon Glen Rd, Warrenton, VA 20186, Phone: 540-428-1984
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
4. Find Hidden Flavors: Savor Boutique Wines at Granite Heights Winery
© volff/stock.adobe.com
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What is Granite Heights Winery?
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Granite Heights Winery
is a boutique, small-production winery located just outside of Warrenton, Virginia.
It is owned and run by a devoted husband-and-wife team.
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What is the setting of the winery?
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The winery features approximately ten acres of vineyards and a 165-acre farm,
offering a pastoral setting along Opal Road.
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What can visitors experience at Granite Heights Winery?
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Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in the nineteenth-century farmhouse.
Tastings are often led by the winemakers/owners in a friendly and unhurried atmosphere.
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What types of wines are available?
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The winery produces several award-winning reds and whites, offering a selection of fine wines for guests to enjoy.
8141 Opal Rd, Warrenton, VA 20186, Phone: 540-349-5185
5. Craft Your Own Bottle: Blend, Taste, and Celebrate at Vint Hill Craft Winery
© Vint Hill Craft Winery
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What is Vint Hill Craft Winery?
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Vint Hill Craft Winery
is a unique urban winery housed inside a century-old barn, dedicated to producing
high-quality, small-batch wines.
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What is the history of the building?
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The building was formerly a literal “nest of spies” and known as Monitoring Station #1.
It was the first building of the organization that would later become the NSA.
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What makes Vint Hill Craft Winery unique?
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It is the only “urban winery” in the Washington, D.C. area where wine appreciation
and winemaking are explored together.
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What can visitors experience at the winery?
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The Teaching and Tasting Bar overlooks the winery’s production area, allowing guests
to sample several wines while watching the entire winemaking process.
7150 Lineweaver Rd, Warrenton, VA 20187, Phone: 540-351-0000
6. Hunt for Hidden Treasures: Wander Through Vintage Finds at Fox Den Antiques
© Fox Den Antiques
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What is Fox Den Antiques?
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Situated in the historic area of Warrenton,
Fox Den Antiques is an established antique shop
located in the foothills of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. It has been continuously open in various forms since 1984.
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What types of antiques and collectibles are available?
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Fox Den Antiques offers a broad array of items for antiquarians and collectors, including:
- Used furniture
- Collectibles from the Civil War era through the 1950s
- Silver and china
- Paper memorabilia and bottles
- Trains, stamps, and coins
- Books and sports memorabilia
- Glassware, paintings, and mirrors
- And much more
355 W Shirley Ave, Warrenton, VA 20186, Phone: 540-347-1162
7. Spice Up Your Meal: Indulge in Bold Flavors at Taj Palace Indian Cuisine
© Taj Palace Indian Cuisine
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What is Taj Palace Indian Cuisine?
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Where is the restaurant located?
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Taj Palace is located near historic Old Town Warrenton, offering a convenient dining destination for locals and visitors.
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What type of cuisine is served?
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The restaurant offers some of the area's best Himalayan and Indian cuisine, featuring:
- Flavorful naan bread
- Tandoor meats
- Savory curries
All dishes are served in a relatable and comfortable ambiance.
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What is unique about the restaurant’s design?
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The restaurant features tall ceilings with stunning lattice designs,
adding to the interior's stately splendor and palace-like grandeur.
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Does the restaurant have a bar?
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Yes, there is a bar offering bar plates, fine wines, and cocktails.
The bar is approachable from the restaurant’s dining room, yet remains secluded for a more intimate setting.
251 W Lee Hwy, Warrenton, VA 20186, Phone: 540-349-8833
8. Dine in Style: If You Crave Upscale Comfort Food, Then Book a Table at Denim and Pearls
© Denim and Pearls Restaurant
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What is Denim and Pearls Restaurant?
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Denim and Pearls Restaurant
is a local dining establishment in Old Town Warrenton, Virginia, offering modern American cuisine
along with some of the area's best food, whiskey, and wine.
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Who owns the restaurant?
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The restaurant is owned and operated by Jenna and TC Robinson, who bring a passion for hospitality and quality dining.
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What dining spaces are available?
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Denim and Pearls features a variety of unique dining spaces, including:
- A relaxing basement bar and lounge area
- A chef’s table, perfect for private parties
- An outdoor rooftop dining area, particularly enjoyable in the evening
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What drink options does the restaurant offer?
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The restaurant serves a selection of beer, whiskey, and wine flights, which pair well with its lunch and dinner menus.
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When is Denim and Pearls open?
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The restaurant serves lunch and dinner seven days a week.
29 Main St, Warrenton, VA 20186, Phone: 540-349-9339
9. Grab a Slice of Local Flavor: Enjoy Classic, Family-Favorite Pies at Joe and Vinnie’s Pizza
© Vasiliy/stock.adobe.com
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What is Joe and Vinnie’s Pizza?
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Joe and Vinnie’s Pizza
is a family-owned and operated New York-style pizzeria located in Warrenton, Virginia.
The pizzeria makes its pizza dough fresh on-site every day.
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How is the pizza made?
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The hand-tossed pizza dough is topped with the restaurant’s special pizza sauce
and quality mozzarella cheese, ensuring an authentic and delicious flavor.
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What toppings are available?
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Customers can choose from a variety of fresh vegetables, Italian sausage,
pepperoni, and other meat toppings.
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Are other menu items made in-house?
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Yes, the dressings for salads and subs are made in-house,
as well as the freshly baked bread.
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What other menu items are available?
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In addition to New York-style pizza, Joe and Vinnie’s offers:
- Sicilian-style pizzas
- Pizza turnovers
- Strombolis
- Calzones
- A variety of pasta dinners
385 W Shirley Ave, Warrenton, VA 20186, Phone: 540-347-0022
🎟 If you are interested in local events:
- For Festival Lovers: Warrenton Spring Festival (May) – Downtown comes alive with crafts, food vendors, and entertainment.
- For Families: Fall Harvest Festival at Great Meadow (October) – Celebrate the season with hayrides, pumpkin picking, and local eats.
- For Music Fans: Bluemont Concert Series (Summer) – Enjoy live outdoor music performances in Old Town Warrenton.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Warrenton, VA:
- For Nature Lovers: Shenandoah National Park (Thornton Gap) (30 min) – Drive Skyline Drive, hike Appalachian trails, or take in mountain views.
- For Wine and Views: Delaplane, VA (25–30 min) – Visit top-rated wineries like Barrel Oak or RdV Vineyards in a scenic setting.
- For History Buffs: Manassas National Battlefield Park (30 min) – Walk historic battlefields and learn about Civil War history.
- For Outdoor Adventure: Sky Meadows State Park (30 min) – Hike scenic meadows, watch birds, or join ranger programs.
- For Small-Town Charm: Culpeper, VA (30 min) – Browse vintage shops, dine at local cafés, and explore historic Main Street.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- What makes Warrenton, Virginia, a great place to visit?
- Located around an hour from the many restaurants, retail areas, museums, sights, and cultural centers of Washington, DC, the town of Warrenton, Virginia offers its own list of fun and interesting things to do.
- Why is Warrenton popular among wine lovers?
- This idyllic countryside suburb is a particularly popular destination for wine enthusiasts looking to sample many of the local wines of Virginia.
- What historical attractions can visitors explore in Warrenton?
- Visitors and locals alike can learn about the history of the local area at the Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail.
- Where can antique lovers go in Warrenton?
- Browse a large number of antiques at Fox Den Antiques.
- What are some recommended restaurants in Warrenton?
- Dine on delicious food at restaurants like the Café Torino and Bakery.
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