Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Sterling, VA

  • Published 2022/12/09

Sterling is the place to be if you’re looking for a fun-filled getaway!

Sterling in Loudoun County is a vibrant area known for its state-of-the-art data centers, chic shopping malls, and suburban residential neighborhoods.

It’s also home to several parks and recreation areas, including Algonkian Regional Park.

There are also several golf courses in the area, like the Dulles Golf Center and Sports Park.

Sterling has something for you, whether you’re looking for a place to shop, play, or relax.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Sterling, Virginia:

Have Fun with Your Family at Algonkian Regional Park

Sunset over the waters of Algonkian Regional Park

Nat Thanapohn / Shutterstock.com

Algonkian Regional Park is the perfect spot to enjoy nature with the whole family!

With 838 acres of land, there are picnic shelters and vacation cabins along the Potomac River that you can rent.

The front nine of this par 72 golf course features tree-lined, straight, and flat fairways, which makes it easier to go through.

Meanwhile. the back nine is hilly, with several doglegs and water holes that will challenge you and your kids when playing golf.

Picnic table overlooking the waters of Algonkian Regional Park

Neha Moosani / Shutterstock.com

There’s also a putting green, driving range, clubhouse, full-service pro shop on-site, as well as the Algonkian Grill.

You can also spend some time with your kids at Volcano Island Waterpark, which offers various water attractions.

There are also miles of hiking trails throughout picturesque wooded areas and fields if you prefer a leisurely stroll through nature.

Visit Algonkian Regional Park on Fairway Drive to have fun with the entire family!

Nature trail at Algonkian Regional Park

Nat Thanapohn / Shutterstock.com

Learn the History of Farming at Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum

The Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum on Heritage Farm Lane is a local treasure, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience life on a working farm.

Visitors can explore the buildings and learn about the tasks once performed on the farm in this museum.

The museum grounds include a restored farmhouse, barn, and outbuildings, all with period-appropriate items.

The farmstead includes a variety of barns, a blacksmith shop, a Waxpool general store, and an American workhorse collection.

The exhibits have informational boards explaining their history, making it easier for visitors to understand and imagine what it was like to live on a farm.

It also has several farm activities for the kids, such as collecting eggs and riding cows.

There’s nothing like a museum that promotes agriculture like the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum!

Get in Touch with the Local Community at Claude Moore Recreation and Community Center

The Claude Moore Recreation and Community Center on Loudoun Park Lane is great for staying active and connecting with the local community.

The center offers various recreational activities to help you socialize with the local residents of Loudoun County.

The center has various amenities, such as an indoor pool, a weight room, a track, and other fitness equipment.

There are also lockers and shower areas for your convenience.

There’s even a designated room for dancing!

The Claude Moore Recreation and Community Center also has playgrounds for kids.

Go Wall Climbing at Sportrock Climbing Center

Many people don’t know that Sportrock Climbing Center was one of the first rock climbing gyms in the United States.

Sportrock Climbing Center boasts various enjoyable climbing routes for kids and adults.

Sportrock Climbing Center offers the highest-caliber educational programs and fitness options.

They teach their visitors about climbing correctly with safety in mind.

You will learn how to do rock climbing and strengthen your grip so you won’t fall on the walls when you go up.

Sportrock Climbing Center is on Maries Road.

Indulge in Sports at Dulles Golf Center & Sports Park

The Dulles Golf Center & Sports Park on Jesse Ct is the perfect place to enjoy a round of golf.

It features 18-hole miniature golf courses and golf practice ranges where you and your kids can play.

Chuck Will Golf Academy is the best choice for you and your kids if you’re looking to improve your golf skills.

You can even have a personalized training session with the owner, Chuck Will.

There is also a batting cage at Dulles Golf Center & Sports Park, where you can practice your hitting skills.

Spend Your Leisure Time at Gwen Thompson Briar Patch Park

The Gwen Thompson Briar Patch Park occupies five acres in Sterling Park, next to Sterling Boulevard.

The park features various amenities, including a playground, a picnic tables area, and tennis and volleyball courts.

The park also has a creek with a small bridge over it.

There are benches where you can sit and watch your kids play or look at the park’s surroundings.

The Gwen Thompson Briar Patch Park is a beautiful place where you can enjoy your time outdoors.

Don’t forget to drop by and visit this park on your next trip to Sterling!

Indulge in Retail Therapy at the Dulles Town Center

A sports bar at Dulles Town Center

melissamn / Shutterstock.com

You’ll love shopping and dining at Dulles Town Center on Dulles Town Circle, the largest destination of its kind in Loudoun County.

The two-level super-regional mall includes 185 stores, including Ann Taylor, Macy’s, Bare Minerals, Forever 21, Francesca’s Abercrombie & Fitch, and other exclusive shops.

The mall also features a food court, fast-food chains, and specialty restaurants.

Interior of Dulles Town Center

Famartin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

For a relaxing movie experience, Regal Dulles Town Center Cinemas are located here, complete with luxury leather recliners in every theater.

With its convenient location and wide range of stores, the Dulles Town Center is a popular destination for locals and visitors.

Dick's sporting goods at Dulles Town Center

Sevenstock Studio / Shutterstock.com

Test Your Kart Racing Skills at Autobahn Indoor Speedway & Events

If you’re looking for thrilling sports activity, the Autobahn Indoor Speedway & Events on Severn Way is for you!

Autobahn Indoor Speedway & Events provides a unique and exhilarating experience perfect for group events, outings, and birthday parties with friends and loved ones.

Their state-of-the-art facility features many amenities to ensure a fun and safe customer experience.

The multi-level tracks here are designed to challenge drivers of all skill levels.

There’s no speed limit here, so you can speed up as much as you want!

The adrenaline-pumping racing experience will get you on your toes as you swerve your kart in the curves of their race tracks.

Experience the thrill of racing at Autobahn Indoor Speedway & Events!

Play to Your Heart’s Content at Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Sky Zone Trampoline Park on Southbank Street offers various recreational activities such as dodgeball and basketball.

There’s also a foam pit if you want something extraordinary.

But if competition is more your style, show everyone what you’re made of in the competitive Battle Beam.

Test your strength, speed, and agility in the Ninja Warrior Course or soar high on the Zip Line.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park also has a spot for your little ones exclusive to toddlers.

Have Fun Playing Archery Dodgeball with Your Family at Ultimate Archery

Looking for a fun and family-friendly activity?

Come to Ultimate Archery on Davis Drive and try archery dodgeball!

This thrilling game is perfect for groups of all ages.

Their experienced staff will provide you with all the equipment you need, as well as safety instructions.

Afterward, it’s time to dodge, duck, dip, and dive your way to victory!

This exciting new twist on an old favorite will get everyone moving and laughing.

In Archery Dodgeball, each team tries to score points by hitting players on the opposing team with foam-tipped arrows.

But watch out; if you get hit by an arrow, you’re out!

Round up your friends and family and visit Ultimate Archery for a guaranteed good time.

Enjoy an Indoor Adventure at ZavaZone Sterling

ZavaZone in Oakbrook Ct is the perfect place to let your inner warrior out and play.

With over 30,000 square feet of ninja training obstacle course, rock climbing, zip-lining, and dodgeball courts, there’s something for everyone at ZavaZone.

Because it’s an indoor facility, you can play no matter what the weather is like outside.

Best of all, parents can relax while watching their kids burn off energy.

ZavaZone is also a great place to host birthday parties and other special events.

Whether you’re looking for a fun way to exercise or want to try something new, visit ZavaZone Sterling.

Other Things to Do Nearby

There are also other things you can do outside Sterling.

These nearby places offer awesome experiences for your vacation.

Explore Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park

Daytime view of Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com

Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park is located in Herndon, just 15 minutes from Sterling.

The trail in the park is a vital part of the countywide trail system, spanning from Sugarland Road to the Town of Herndon line.

Three miles of walking paths are available with primary and side trails combined.

While most courses are open to the public, some homeowners association properties require special permission.

The waters of Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com

The park offers various activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and fishing.

There’s also a nature center where visitors can learn about the local wildlife and ecosystem.

The park offers stunning views of the Sugarland Run stream, the surrounding valley, and tall trees.

Whether you are looking for a place to enjoy a leisurely walk or an exciting day of hiking, Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park is the perfect destination.

Trail lined with cherry blossom trees at Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com

Take Your Kids to Hampshire Park

Hampshire Park, just 12 minutes from Sterling, is a 9.5-acre park in the Stonegate community with an asphalt trail that gives visitors access to the Washington and Old Dominion Trails.

There’s a walking trail that goes around the perimeter of the park.

You can also enjoy relaxing views of the creek in the area.

A lacrosse and soccer field are also available to play a game or two with your kids.

Final Thoughts

Sterling is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a fun-filled day out.

No matter your interests, the city offers fun activities for you and your family.

With beautiful parks, world-class golfing facilities, and a variety of recreation centers, there is something for everyone in this wonderful community.

Start planning your trip and try these 15 best things to do in Sterling, Virginia!

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