Westridge - Woodbridge, VA

Westridge was constructed in the 1980s. By 1989, control of the community had been turned over to the homeowners association. Westridge community members ensured the neighborhoods provided a relaxing and convenient lifestyle by prioritizing amenities and environmental conservation. The association built a swim and racquet club, defined communal neighborhood space and preserved a five-acre lake. Thirteen neighborhoods comprise Westridge, each with its own budget.

The Occoquan Mill House Museum provides visitors with a rich history of Occoquan and the surrounding area. The museum possesses antiques and artifacts that date back over 200 years. Admission is free. A number of events take place in Westridge throughout the year. The monthly newsletter advertises these event, such as the Fall Community Cleanup and Summer Opportunity Fair.

Few restaurants and late-night spots exist in Westridge proper. To find dining and nightlife options, you will need to drive just a few miles to central Woodbridge, Potomac Mills, Lake Ridge or Dale City.

Afghan cuisine probably doesn't leap to mind when you think of Virginia, but don't let that stop you from heading to Al-Zaytoun Kabob and Grill Restaurant. This local favorite features food packed with fragrant spices, a great buffet deal and exemplary service. Popular entrees include the lamb and boneless chicken kabob. Make sure to order the refreshing mint lemonade with whatever you decide to eat.

Presto Pizza serves specialty pizza and other Italian fare in a casual dining environment. Residents rave about this unassuming, family-style pizzeria where they cook the handmade pizza with fresh ingredients. One look at the finished product and you'll wish you had a second stomach to finish the generous portions. Popular specialty pizzas include the shrimp scampi and the Maui wowi.

The Bungalow Alehouse provides a variety of entertaining activities to enjoy while you sample the impressive selection of craft beers. Relax in the welcoming ambiance as you play a game of pool or a round of darts. The alehouse has a "campy bungalow" feel to it with as the owners have decorated the walls with photographs from nature trips they took as children. Locals' favorite dishes include the BBQ hat trick, including the signature baby back ribs, beef brisket and pulled pork, plus the surf and turf.

For a more sophisticated and upscale nightlife experience, try the Bottle Stop wine bar and shop next to the scenic Occoquan River. The restaurant has outdoor seating providing a perfect view of the scenic landscape. In addition to great wine, the Bottle Shop also serves food and craft beer. Regulars describe the atmosphere as warm, relaxed and friendly.

Residents rely on cars to travel around Westridge. They rarely have trouble finding parking spots, as free parking lots and garages are available throughout the community. Drive six miles or so to reach Interstate 95, which connects the area to Washington and Baltimore to the north and Richmond to the south. Other highways near Westridge include Virginia State Route 234 and U.S. Route 1.

Public transportation exists in Prince William County, but the bus routes do not stretch conveniently through much of the neighborhood. The buses also only run every half hour to hour. Residents can take the train from the Woodbridge Amtrak Station, located about ten miles from Westridge, to Washington and other destinations. Several taxi companies serve the greater Woodbridge area. Call ahead of time to reserve a cab because they do not roam the streets. Uber also provides its ride sharing service in the community. Residents also enjoy walking and cycling throughout Westridge. The carefully planned development offers a number of recreational services accessible by walking or biking.

Residents love taking their children to the free Fantasy Playground in Woodbridge. The extensive playground, grass fields and sandboxes make this a favorite spot for parents and kids alike. It can get crowded, though, especially on weekends.

Take your dogs to the free K-9 Gunner Memorial Dog Park. Dogs of all sizes and types will enjoy playing in one of the two designated areas, as they keep large and small dogs separate. Your four-legged friend will find ample space to run and get some needed exercise.

Try Occoquan Regional Park for a more active outdoor experience. The large trees and marked trails make this a scenic spot for walking and hiking. You can also rent kayaks or play soccer on one of its fields.

Household incomes in Westridge average around $123,000. However, because Westridge lies further outside Washington, D.C. than many suburbs, the cost of living here is lower than in most suburbs and wealthy neighborhoods in Washington. The average rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment runs about $1200 a month.

Dining out in the greater Woodbrige area costs less than in the city. Beers usually cost anywhere from $4 to $7. Main courses at many restaurants will set you back $10 to $15. While you do need to drive to get around Westridge, the gas prices are some of the lowest in the metropolitan area. A gallon of gas costs an average of about $2.17, 1% lower than the national average.

For upscale shopping and great deals, head over to Potomac Mills Mall. Over 200 stores, including Bloomingdale's, Armani Exchange and Michael Kors, make this outlet the largest in Virginia.

The greater Woodbrige area also houses a number of small, locally owned stores for those who prefer to avoid the hassle of large shopping complexes. B-Thrifty offers used clothing, housewares and more at low prices. This well-organized store also runs great sales such as 50% off everything they sell. For the best athletic gear, head to VA Runner, where the knowledgeable staff members help shoppers find the right shoes and accessories for their body and activities.

Grocery stores that service the area include Safeway, Giant and Food Lion. Global Food, located a few miles down the road in Woodbridge, specializes in Korean and other international food. The nearby Dale City Farmer's Market, open Sundays year round, houses nearly 50 vendors selling fresh local produce and baked goods.