When you think of a fun day trip in the Washington, DC, area, it is understandable if your first thought is a visit to the nation’s capital. But fortunately for senior residents of this area, the opportunities to engage in fun activities with friends and family members of all ages are nearly endless; which is something that makes this area so special, and a popular retirement destination.
Though many retirees choose to live in warmer climates, these areas lack the features of a seasonally varying environment where one can enjoy not only cultural opportunities, but plenty of time outside thanks to periods of lovely weather. One of the best senior-friendly activities anytime of the year is a trip to Bull Run Regional Park.
Whether you have been there before or this is the first time you have heard of it, check out a few of our favorite things for seniors to do at Bull Run Regional Park that are fun to enjoy alone or with others.
About Bull Run Regional Park
A definite gem among the many NOVA Parks in the region, Bull Run Regional Park boasts more than 1,500 acres of natural space, dozens of on-site facilities, and plenty of activities and outdoor highlights to host adventures for nature lovers of all ages. The park is located in Centreville, Virginia, and is known for everything from its annual Festival of Lights and water park to its well-maintained trails, picnic shelters, and year-round programs. For a quick overview of the park, check out its online history page or take a look at its detailed park map.
The Bluebell, White, and Occoquan Trails
The many benefits of walking regularly cannot be overstated, especially where seniors are concerned. For example, walking can help to ward off heart disease and improve circulation, reduce bone loss, and slow cognitive decline. And don’t forget that being outside in nature improves the overall mood of everyone.
Luckily for seniors in the Sudley Manor area, Bull Run Regional Park offers miles and miles of walking trails. The Bluebell Trail, the White Trail, and a portion of the larger Occoquan Trail are amazing opportunities to enjoy the natural habitat of Virginia almost year-round. These trails are well groomed and well marked for all experience levels. Even better, many parts of the trails are shaded, and some offer markers that touch on the land’s place in Civil War history.
Festival of Lights
Every year from Thanksgiving until just after New Year’s Day, Bull Run hosts the Festival of Lights. Offering 2.5 miles of illuminated lights and light displays, visitors can enjoy the holiday glow from the comfort of their cars.
Disc Golf Course
Bull Run features an 18-hole disc golf course that weaves its way through the park’s beautiful woods and nearby camp store and Atlantis Waterpark. The course is open every day of the week from dawn until dusk, weather permitting. The camp store offers disc golf supplies, too, if you need them.
Barn Pavilion, Picnic, and Camping Shelters
Whether you have a small group interested in an overnight stay in a cabin, a special event at the renovated Barn Pavilion (with enough space for up to 1,000 people), or a nice picnic with friends or family, Bull Run has plenty of space. There is also the camp store, which has all of the supplies you could need.
Roving Naturalist Program
The NOVA Parks Roving Naturalist Program offers guided walks, tours, hikes, and adventures throughout Bull Run. The program also assists with stream and pond studies and facilitates night explorations and live animal programs. There are classes and events for seniors, kids, and everyone in between.
Atlantis Waterpark
Tap into your inner child and enjoy a full day of sliding, splashing, and relaxing at the park’s Atlantis Waterpark. Offering two huge waterslides and a giant 500-gallon dumping bucket, Atlantis Waterpark is great for a relaxing swim or an all-day adventure for kids and family. The park offers annual and daily passes that also allow entry to NOVA Parks’ five other waterparks all summer long.
Playgrounds and Sports Fields
Bull Run also features six high-caliber sports fields, perfect for a pickup game or for watching local sports leagues. Bull Run also offers two large playgrounds designed for kids of all ages. Located next to the camp store and restrooms, the playgrounds have slides, a rock climbing wall, and a large swing set.
There are endless activities for seniors and their friends and families to enjoy at Bull Run Regional Park, no matter your interests or ability level. Pick one of our favorites, reach out to Arbor Terrace Sudley Manor, or visit the park soon to find a new one of your own.
