Loudoun County, Virginia is a highly sought after location that is known for its picturesque neighborhoods and historic charm.  People are drawn to Loudoun County for its acres of untouched land, an established technology corridor nearby and great public amenities.  Loudoun is a historic area and is now home to many of Virginia's finest wineries and farm breweries, and attracts people from all over the DC area. A beautiful mix of rural and urban, people choose Loudoun County for its beautiful scenery, homes, wineries, jobs, recreation and a population active in the community.

Loudoun County History

Settlement in Loudoun County dates back to the 1720s, with settlers coming from New Jersey, Maryland and Pennsylvania. During the War of 1812, Loudoun served as a retreat for President Madison while the British attacked Washington. Later, major Civil War battles were fought in Loudoun, including the Battle of Balls Bluff. Over the years, Loudoun stayed very rural until the building of Dulles International Airport in the 1960s. As a result, new businesses moved in, also spurring residential growth. Today, Loudoun is a fast growing, dynamic area that remains true to its history, while giving its residents modern amenities.

Living in Loudoun County, Virginia

Many people love Loudoun's small town feel and there are plenty of activities including tours, horse shows, country markets, and more. Loudoun is one of the most relaxing suburbs of DC and there are many opportunities here to take advantage of the great outdoors. Western Loudoun is home to rolling hills, beautiful vistas and many of the county’s wineries and farm breweries.

Western Loudoun towns include Purcellville, Middleburg, Lovettesville, and more. The more densly populated Eastern Loudoun includes Ashburn and Sterling, and is home to a booming tech industry and Ashburn’s “Data Center Alley.” Sitting in the midde is Leesburg, Loudoun’s county seat. Leesburg bridges the gap between Loudoun’s rural and urban sensibilities. Its historic downtown is full of delicious restaurants and locally owned boutiques, as well as Tally Ho, a renovated Art Deco twin-screen movie theater that now serves as a popular music and comedy venue.

Things to Do in Loudoun County

Loudoun County has embraced its agricultural roots and made them work in the modern era. Where dairy farms used to dot the landscape, one can now find a variety of organic farms and vineyards. Loudoun is the heart of Virginia’s wine country, and most of the state’s wineries can be found right here. Currently, Loudoun County is home to over 40 wineries featuring many varietals, including Viognier and Cabernet Franc.

Farm-to-table restaurants can also be found in Loudoun, the most notable of which is the Restaurant at Potowmack Farm. Many other restaurants feature locally grown produce and locally produced meats. Coupled with farmers’ markets across the county, it’s never too hard to eat fresh and local.

Loudoun has great nightlife options including local theatres and bars. In addition to Tally Ho in Leesburg, Franklin Park Arts Center features plays and art shows from local artists. Sterling Playmakers have been putting on performances of everything from Shakespeare to Agatha Christie since 1996.

Recreation in Loudoun

Loudoun has access to numerous recreational opportunities as well as tours and more. There are scenic parks, trails, fields as well as plenty of outdoor activities. Harpers Ferry Adventure Center is a popular place to go for whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, hiking and camping. Algonkian Regional Park is another great place to spend the day and this park features golf, picnic areas, a water park for kids, and a reception room for events like weddings or large gatherings.  If you are looking for a great place to go biking or jogging then head over to theWashington and Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park. This park features a nearly 50 mile biking and jogging trail that leads all the way into Arlington. There are also historic tours throughout Loudoun giving visitors and residents a feel for what life was like in the Civil War era and earlier. Some of these tours include the Mosby Heritage Area Driving Tour, the Journey Through Hallowed Ground (Self Driving Tour) and the Leesburg History Tour where you actually walk inside historic homes in the area.

Homes for Sale in Loudoun County, VA

There are many options when it comes to living in Loudoun. Recent construction has brought in new townhomes, condos, apartments and single-family homes to the area, especially in Eastern Loudoun. Mixed-use developments have also been popping up around the county, offering a more urban living experience with restaurants, entertainment and recreation all within walking distance. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, historic Colonials can still be found, as well as large estates on several acres in Western Loudoun.

Transportation

Loudoun County is about 30 miles outside of DC and has a range of transportation options available.  If you are driving, there are major highways including Route 50, 7, 267, as well as the Loudoun County Parkway. There is also a Loudoun County Commuter Bus that has several stops in Loudoun and brings commuters to DC or Arlington. Located just minutes away are also two airports including Dulles International Airport and the local Leesburg Executive Airport. The Metro Silver Line is being expanded and will ultimately have stops in Loudoun County and offer direct train access to Washington, DC.