Plan Now to Visit the Holland of Virginia

This article is part of our daily Regional Highlights series which features unique businesses, attractions and events around the South (outside of Georgia.)

A trip to Holland is about $2,000 per person….. but a trip to Prince William County in Virginia is far less.

Burnside Farms’ Festival of Spring, voted the #1 Tulip Festival in the Country, opened this week!

Each tulip beds/rows contains 6,500 or more bulbs. The farm imports a little over 2.5 million new bulbs from Holland each year and plants them every fall. The tulips aren’t the only stars of the show; there are over 40 varieties of daffodils!

Here is what you need to know before coming:

• You need a ticket to enter for everyone 6yo and older.
• Tickets go SUPER fast, and you can only buy them online so do it NOW.
• You will enter at the time on your ticket… but you can stay until closing.
• Leave Fido at home.
• The event is rain or shine.
• A limited number of day-of tickets go on sale at 6 AM each day on the website, but that’s a gamble. They sell out fast.
• Tickets are $19-21 per person.
• Yes, you can pick the tulips.
• Be sure to wear “farm shoes” like waterproof boots. If it has rained the night before, the rows can get muddy.

More in Prince William County

Is it worth a weekend from Atlanta? For sure! Even if you don’t head into DC.

And yes, I know… it’s a 10 hour car ride. Too much for some people, so you can fly in. But my sister lived here for many years and I’ve taken this road trip two-dozen times or more. It’s easy… and fun!

When you decide to head out… try these stops, soo.

1. Manassas National Battlefield Park: This historic site is where two major Civil War battles were fought—the First and Second Battles of Manassas (or Bull Run). Visitors can explore the battlefield, learn about the history at the visitor center, and participate in guided tours.
2. Potomac Mills: One of the largest outlet malls in Virginia, Potomac Mills offers a vast array of shopping options with over 200 stores, making it a popular destination for those looking to find deals on brand-name items.
3. Leesylvania State Park: Located along the shores of the Potomac River, this park offers activities like hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking. It’s also a site with historical significance, including an ancestral home of the Lee family and a Civil War-era Confederate gun battery.
4. Occoquan Historic District: The charming town of Occoquan offers a delightful blend of history, arts, and crafts, with its historic buildings, unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, making it a pleasant destination for visitors looking for a quaint experience.
5. Prince William Forest Park: As the largest green space in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, this park offers a retreat into nature with its hiking trails, campgrounds, and wildlife. It’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.
6. Marine Corps Base Quantico: While not traditionally a tourist destination due to its nature as a military installation, the base’s proximity contributes to the area’s identity. The National Museum of the Marine Corps, located near the base, is an impressive facility dedicated to the history of the U.S. Marines.
7. Wineries and Breweries: Prince William County is home to several wineries and breweries, offering tastings and tours for those interested in local wine and craft beer. The county’s rural areas provide a scenic backdrop for these establishments, adding to the visitor experience.