Who’s guilty of going to a horse show in a really cool place and then never leaving the grounds? Don’t make the same mistake at the Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials this October. A short jaunt from the park itself, Leesburg, Virginia is just begging to be explored.
Relish Local Cuisine
The thriving pocket-sized city of Leesburg has no shortage of amazing places to eat for any budget. After a long day spectating or competing at the horse show, you have to hit the town for some blue ribbon dining.
If you want to eat like a local, check out Tuscarora Mill. Lovingly referred to as “Tuskie’s” by the local community, the restaurant is located inside a historic building that operated as a grain mill in the late 1800s. Perfect for the history buff in your party as well as anyone that enjoys great ambiance, sit down at the Mill to enjoy entrees like beef tips and scallops with whipped potatoes or grilled lemongrass chicken skewers atop a green soba noodle salad.
Looking for a lovely atmosphere for a nice dinner out? You might want to check out The Huntōn, which allows diners to indulge in a menu inspired by the bounties of the hunt.
Is that– is that a sweat treat? Only one way to find out– head over to The Yard for the best dessert you’ve ever had: an over-the-top milkshake. Forget the classic milkshake handed to you in a styrofoam cup. These milkshakes are like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Take the Virginia is for Lovers milkshake, which has strawberry cheesecake ice cream in a vanilla iced jar rolled in heart-shaped sprinkles. It’s topped with red candy whipped cream, a rock candy stick, and a cookie dough heart. Forget dinner, let’s head straight to The Yard.
Listen to Live Music
Eventers know how to work hard and play hard. If you’re looking for some nightlife to enjoy after spending the day tailgating on the cross country course, you can find live music in downtown Leesburg. If you’re feeling like a casual live band, head to Spanky’s Shenanigans (yes, that is its actual name.) They have live music on the regular, so you can treat yourself to a post-cross country beer, sit back and relax, and listen to some live music. They are regularly voted one of Loudoun County’s best pubs, with everything from oysters to burgers on the menu. Make sure you check the calendar to see who’s playing before you go.
If you want to really live it up, head to the aptly-named Tally Ho Theater for a full concert experience after the horse show. An ABBA tribute band and a Dave Matthews tribute band are both playing that weekend. Food is available for purchase from the restaurant next door and three different bars inside the theater will make sure your glass is never empty.
Stop By Lost Creek Tasting Room
The area surrounding Morven Park Equestrian Center isn’t just great for cross country, it’s also fertile soil for delicious wines and beautiful vineyards. Stop by Lost Creek Tasting Room in downtown Leesburg to enjoy a glass of local wine after a long day of spectating at the horse show.
The wines at Lost Creek Tasting Room are grown along the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains on a vineyard called Meridian Ridge. With varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Tannat, you’re sure to find a wine for every equestrian in your group at this tasting room. Personally, I would go for a glass of the 2023 Viognier.
Visit Loudoun Museum
Stop by this short and sweet museum that’s the perfect size. Get some history in without being faced with the daunting task of spending an entire day at a Smithsonian-sized institution.
The Loudoun Museum is a quick trip that can be visited before or after your ride. With free admission and open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday, the Loudoun Museum has exhibits covering the Civil War, French aristocrat and military officer Lafayette, and the early years of the republic.
If you didn’t get enough history during your quick visit after enjoying the Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials, come back the next weekend for the Loudoun Museum’s “Hauntings.” These ghostly walks take you on an 80-minute tour of the historic streets of Leesburg where you’ll learn about notable buildings, cemeteries and their spooky inhabitants.
Go Shopping in Historic Downtown Leesburg
If you love shopping local, historic downtown Leesburg will be your version of catnip. After watching some gorgeous dressage tests on Friday at the Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials, spend the afternoon shopping in the historic district of Leesburg. With beautifully preserved buildings everywhere you look, you can wander in and out of stores to find your new favorite book, plant, gift, or trinket.
For those who love curling up with a book, stop into Birch Tree Books and Plant Store. Based on my own experience, the staff have some excellent suggestions for a new book to add to your TBR list and the plant selection extends through the back of the store and out to the patio.
If you’re looking for a gift for a friend or family member, visit Global Local. This store not only supports local artists, but offers thoughtfully sourced and sustainable gifts from Fair Trade makers around the world. Plus, if you plan your day well enough, you can stop by their candle making bar to create commemorative candles from your visit to Morven Park.
Finally, treat yourself to a custom-blended perfume at Rouge Spa. Why not smell like something besides horse for once? The store owner, Anita, is an aromatherapist who has learned how to create custom perfumes, lotions, body scrubs, and more. Create a scent that’s all your own at Rouge Spa.
There’s so much to do in the areas surrounding Morven Park Equestrian Center, that your only problem will be how to fit it all in around enjoying the tailgating and VIP experiences all weekend.
