11 The Winery at Bull Run and Pearmund Cellars

"Virginia is for Wine Lovers" is not just a catchy slogan; it's a testament to the thriving wine culture that has taken root in the state of Virginia. Nestled amid the picturesque landscapes of the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the rolling hills of Central Virginia, Virginia's wine country has emerged as a prominent destination for oenophiles and enthusiasts alike. The Winery at Bull Run, Pearmund Cellars are two examples of such fine wineries that is less than one hour away from downtown Washington, DC that we visited this summer.  

The Winery at Bull Run.

 

Pearmund Cellars

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Virginia's winemaking history dates back to the early 17th century when settlers first attempted to cultivate grapes in the New World. Over the centuries, this endeavor has evolved into a flourishing industry that consistently produces award-winning wines. Here are a few key highlights that define Virginia's status as a wine lover's paradise: 

 - Virginia's diverse climate and topography provide an ideal environment for growing a wide range of grape varietals. You can find everything from classic Bordeaux and Burgundian varieties to more unique grapes like Viognier and Petit Verdot. 

 - Scenic Vineyards: The state's wineries are often set against breathtaking backdrops, making wine tasting a multisensory experience. Rolling vine-covered hills, historic estates, and charming tasting rooms contribute to the overall ambiance. 

 - Tasting Experiences: Virginia wineries are known for their warm hospitality and inviting tasting experiences. Visitors can tour vineyards, meet winemakers, and sample an array of wines, often accompanied by locally sourced cheeses and gourmet snacks. 

 - Wine Trails: Virginia boasts several wine trails and regions, including the Northern Virginia Wine Trail and the Monticello Wine Trail. These trails allow wine lovers to explore clusters of wineries and enjoy the beauty of the countryside. - Award-Winning Wines: Virginia wines have garnered national and international acclaim, winning prestigious awards for their quality and craftsmanship. The state's winemakers continually push the boundaries of what's possible in American winemaking.

10 Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Situated within the campus of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is a remarkable religious and architectural masterpiece. This grand Roman Catholic church ranks among the largest and most prominent in the United States. Visiting this splendid site is a sensory delight for the eyes, body, and mind, offering a captivating blend of aesthetics and spirituality.

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Construction of the basilica began in 1920, and it has been a work in progress ever since. The basilica is renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate design. It combines various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Byzantine, and Gothic elements, making it a unique and visually captivating structure. Its towering dome and intricate mosaics are particularly notable. The interior of the basilica is adorned with over 80,000 square feet of vibrant and intricate mosaic art, making it one of the largest collections of mosaics in the world. These mosaics depict scenes from the Bible, the history of the Catholic Church in the United States, and the life of the Virgin Mary. The National Shrine serves as a place of worship for Catholics and welcomes visitors of all faiths. It's a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually who come to admire its architecture, art, and religious significance. Crypt Church: Beneath the main church, there is a smaller, more intimate space known as the Crypt Church. This space is often used for daily Mass and smaller gatherings. It also houses several side chapels and additional religious artwork.

9 The Washington D.C. Temple/Mormon Temple

 The Washington D.C. Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is sometimes informally referred to as the "Mormon Temple" by people outside the faith.

The Washington D.C. Temple, officially known as the Washington D.C. Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), is a prominent religious structure located in Kensington, Maryland, just north of Washington, D.C. It is one of the most iconic and recognizable buildings associated with the LDS Church and serves as a place of worship and religious significance for members of the faith in the Washington metropolitan area and beyond. Here are some key details about the Washington D.C. Temple.  It is not open to the general public.

The Christmas lights display at the Washington D.C. Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a popular annual tradition that draws visitors from the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and beyond.

Around Christmas holiday, there were 450,000 sparkling light decorated trees on its surrounding grounds which makes beautiful photos.  

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The temple was announced by LDS Church President Spencer W. Kimball in 1968, and its construction began in 1971. It was dedicated on November 19, 1974. The temple is known for its unique and striking modern design, featuring six towering spires and beautiful gardens.

Temples in the LDS Church are considered sacred and are used for ordinances and ceremonies that are central to the faith. These include baptisms for the dead, marriage ceremonies (sealings), and other sacred rituals. Only members of the LDS Church in good standing are allowed to enter the temple.

The Washington D.C. Temple's architecture is distinctive. The six spires represent various elements of the faith, including the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The temple is constructed of white marble and is surrounded by well-maintained grounds and gardens.

In addition to the temple itself, there is a Visitors' Center on the temple grounds that is open to the public. The Visitors' Center provides information about the LDS Church, its beliefs, and the purpose of temples. Visitors can learn about the significance of the temple to Latter-day Saints and explore exhibits and displays.

For more information, visit

Washington DC Temple — A Sacred Monument in a City of Monuments - YouTube

8 Theodore Roosevelt Island

Theodore Roosevelt Island is a national memorial located in the Potomac River in Washington DC. It honors the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, who was a conservationist and a lover of nature. The island was designated as a memorial to him by Congress in 1932.

The island was once a neglected, overgrown farmland that was transformed into a natural forest by landscape architects in the 1930s. They planted native trees and shrubs to create a habitat for wildlife and a refuge for visitors.

To access the island, visitors have to park their cars on the Virginia side of the river and walk across a footbridge that offers scenic views of Georgetown, northern Virginia, and the Potomac River.

The island has a statue of President Roosevelt at the entrance, surrounded by four large granite tablets inscribed with his quotes on nature, manhood, youth, and the state. The rest of the island is mostly left in its wild state, with trails that loop around the island and offer glimpses of the river and the city.

The trail around the island is about 1.5 miles long and takes about 30 minutes to complete. It is an easy walk that is suitable for all ages and abilities. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the diverse flora and fauna of the island.

The bridge crossing from Virgina to the Island

View of Georgetown

View of Virginia

View of Georgetown Water Front