I-95 Woodbridge Woodbridge, VA

In existence for over 200 years, Woodbridge originated from the name of Thomas Mason’s plantation near the Occoquan River. Its name reflects its origins, as the area began as a wooden bridge built over the river. The area was originally populated by plantations, but agriculture eventually moved to developing farms.

Now, the area booms with more suburban style culture, still maintaining the integrity of its past. You still find plantations, such as George Mason’s Gunston Hall Tobacco and corn plantation, open and ready for tours.

Woodbridge remains a very diverse area, a fact reflected in the cuisine. With options stretching across Mexican, Thai, Afghani, Chinese and American, you can find something to satisfy your taste buds. If you want to try new delights, check out AL-Zaytoun Kabob and Grill restaurant for authentic Halal Afghan and Pakistani dishes. Kabobs with all the fixings, delectable curry specialties, and even an Afghan take on a burger and fries make this one of the premier restaurants of the area.

Want a taste of France? Bistro L’hermitage provides another favorite. The extensive menu proves to be very descriptive, so ordering remains easy. Try the warm and hearty French onion soup or the tantalizing lobster bisque. Finish your meal with the traditional dessert crème brulee. If you feel worthy of wearing the tilted beret, try the escargot and be transplanted to the city of love. The Bistro L’hermitage makes a great impression on your appetite, an experience to remember.

When dining with the kids, try Astoria Pizza, a pizzeria loved by locals and outsiders. Each pizza is cooked to perfection from pie to crust, a taste the entire family can enjoy. Not limited to only pizza, Astoria makes juicy gyros, lip-smacking goodness all wrapped up in pita.

At night, many make their way to the city. If you want to stay local, sip on some local handcrafted beer at the The Bungalow Alehouse; play pool or listen to live music.

Transportation proves readily available for your visit to Woodbridge. While you can't expect to catch an Uber here, there exist so many other methods of transportation that you do not need one. The community’s neighbor, Interstate 95, gets you wherever you need to go if it lies an exit or two down the road. Otherwise, local bus information can be found on First Transit or PRTC. Bicycle trails prove to be prevalent across the town and introduce new ways to tour the area.

Because of the historical nature of the area, you have your choice of many national landmark recreational parks to visit. One of the main parks, Leesylvania State Park, was originally home to the Native Americans in its beginning. The family friendly park has many activities available at a low cost to you. Camping, fishing, boating, swimming and even night fishing name just a few of the enjoyments available here. Also, man’s best friend can tag along to any Virginia State Park, so you don’t have to leave your pet behind. For the kids, WaterWorks Water Park has water activities for all ages. You can also plan your trip around the annual Heritage Harvest Festival. Learn to make apple cider or canned preserves, or enjoy live demonstrations, among many other delights.

The cost of living in outer Woodbridge runs less than the average of the city of Woodbridge as a whole. Looking to stay longer than a few weeks? The average one-bedroom apartment goes for around $1,230. Plan to save on gas, as the average fuel prices sit less than the national average. Expect to pay about $7 for a beer at a neighborhood bar.

Looking for somewhere to spend the day? The Woodbridge neighborhood offers one of the most expansive Outlet Malls in the D.C. area. Expect to find a variety of stores on the strip, encompassing every style and taste. The store selection of Potomac Mills largely settles in middle range for prices, with some high-end luxury brands interspersed. There exist over 200 options from which to choose, covering a wide array of goods and services. You can shop in less mainstream ways as well. Not too far north of the area, the Bolton Auctioneers have antique treasures up for grabs. Venturing into the world of vintage might offer a very interesting shopping experience along with longstanding conversation souvenirs.

If you enjoy working out, check out VA Runner. This location specializes in running footwear and hosts a number of events. You may be in town long enough to join in on a marathon.

The area diversifies food markets as well, with locations such as Todos Hispanic supermarket, an establishment that stocks fresh and abundant options choices in Hispanic groceries. Dale City farmers market open during all four seasons, selling fresh, ripe produce and legumes to the community.