Leesburg Virginia

Leesburg is about 45 miles outside of Washington, DC and is a suburban area with a small town feel.  There is plenty of history in Leesburg as evidenced by some of the older brick buildings.  Over the last couple decades Leesburg has grown into more of a suburb and slowly moving away from the small town feel, however it is definitely still a “bedroom community”.  People enjoy the peacefulness of Leesburg, while still being able to commute to DC.  There are plenty of technology and contracting companies that are in the proximity and the Outlet Mall in Leesburg draws people from across the region.  Leesburg has always been a quaint, small town that is located about an hour outside of DC however it has grown recently into more of a country suburb. 

History of Leesburg VA

Leesburg has a rich history that spans three centuries.  After the Treaty of Albany in 1722, the Iroquois tribe left all of the land in what is now known as Loudon county and colonists began to move in and settle there.  In 1757, Leesburg was the location picked for the new Loudoun County Courthouse and in 1813 the town of Leesburg was officially established.  Up until the Civil War era, Leesburg was known as a prosperous, small town of about 1,500 residents.  Leesburg is located just a few miles from the Potomac River, which was the dividing line in the Civil War from the United States and the Confederates States of America.  As a result there were numerous battles fought here including the Battle of Balls Bluff.  After the war ended, Leesburg had to recover from the scorched earth tactics that were commonly used.  Leesburg’s location just 45 miles outside of D.C. helped to speed their recovery and the railroad allowed farmers to get their crops to larger cities.  In the 20^th century, Leesburg was the home of George C. Marshall, the man behind the Marshall Plan that helped to rebuild countries after WWII.  Over the years, Leesburg has tried to retain its identity as a small, historic town although the rapid growth of Northern Virginia has affected Leesburg to some extent. 

Leesburg’s Vibe

Downtown Leesburg is a charming and quaint area that still has numerous historic properties and a historic main street.  Leesburg has grown considerably since its days a small town civil war town.  The post WWII suburb boom in Northern Virginia and the creation of Dulles International Airport, just 15 miles away from Leesburg has brought in numerous commercial and residential developers.  Leesburg is a quiet community but does have great shopping in the Outlet Malls and the development over the last decade and more has brought in great dining options.  If you enjoy the outdoors you will love Leesburg since there are so many parks and historic landmarks to see. 

Shopping options in Leesburg, VA

Leesburg has a Premium Outlet Mall that his home to over 100 big name retailers and brings people from across the region.  Some of these stores include a Michael Kors, Nike Factory Store, True Religion, Vera Bradley, and many more.  All your shopping needs can be met in this one center and gives little reasons for Leesburg residents to look elsewhere. 

Recreation options in Leesburg, Virginia

One of the great things about the neighborhood of Leesburg is that it has so many great parks and abundant recreation space since it is far enough removed from the city.  Ida Lee Park, the Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Trail, Red Rocks Wilderness Park, and the Rust Manor House and Nature Sanctuary are just a few of the parks and recreation available.  Ida Lee Park has over 350 acres of parkland and over 70,000 square feet of recreation including tennis courts, basketball courts, and swimming.  The picturesque Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Trail, a 45 mile trail and a favorite among bikers and joggers, which you can take all the way into Arlington, VA.  Red Rocks Wilderness Overlook Regional Park is located right along the Potomac River and is great for hiking with its beautiful views.  The Rust Manor House and Nature Sanctuary is a great place to escape and observe wildlife up close and personal.  It is over 70 acres and has trails throughout the area leading to ponds, meadows, and forested areas.  There is certainly no shortage of parks or recreational opportunities in Leesburg. 

Where do people live in Leesburg VA?

Leesburg has a great selection of single family homes and also newer condos and townhouses.  The Technology Corridor in the Dulles area has brought an influx of people and as a result newer residential developments have gone up in Leesburg.  Compared to the closer in (but not necessarily more convenient) suburbs of Fairfax or Arlington County, the prices in Leesburg are a bargain.

Leesburg Virginia Transportation options

Your transportation options in Leesburg include either car or bus.  Although people prefer to drive, there is a Loudoun County Commuter bus with a stop in Leesburg.  There are two major highways located in Leesburg including Route 15 and Route 7.  Driving or taking a bus into the city can take an hour or longer during peak hours.  If you need to go on a business trip or vacation then Dulles Airport is conveniently just 15 minutes away and is the largest airport in the D.C. Metropolitan Area.  There is also a smaller local airport, the Leesburg Executive Airport. Walking down the main street area of Leesburg is an amazing experience and even dates back to the 1700s. 

Leesburg VA Boundaries

Leesburg is about 45 miles northwest of D.C. in Loudoun County and is located next the Potomac River.  It is located near the heart of Northern Virginia’s wine country and just minutes from the Blue Ridge Mountains.  According to the U.S. Census, the neighborhood is 12.5 square miles. 

Entertainment & Restaurant options in Leesburg VA

Leesburg has many events that take place throughout the year and also has great dining options.  There is a Fourth of July Celebration, Garden Festival, August Court and Market Day, and even a Halloween Parade.  Of the more than 65 restaurants in Leesburg, some of the more notable ones include the Wine Kitchen, Tuscarora Mill, and La Lou Bistro.  There are also some great local bakeries and coffee shops like Lola Cookies and Treats, Shoes Cup and Cork Club, and Razzle Dairy Bar.

Nightlife in Leesburg Virginia

The nightlife in Leesburg is not as prominent as the suburbs closer to D.C. but there is still a great selection of live music, local bars, wine tastings and comedy shows.  There are two free outdoor concerts that are a must see including the Acoustic on the Green and the Bluemont Concert series.  Additionally, Leesburg’s First Friday is a weekly event that sponsors wine tastings, comedy shows, art exhibits and musical performances.  Some of the local bars include Balls Bluff Tavern and the Downtown Saloon.  For being a small town Leesburg has a lot going on for it. 

Conclusion about Leesburg VA

Leesburg has evolved considerably since its small town civil war days yet still has kept much of its historic charm.  The quaint neighborhood has seen an increase in development with the Technology Corridor right down the street and the construction of the Outlet Mall.  Leesburg is a great place to live if you enjoy suburban living in a small town and do not mind having a little bit of a commute if you work in D.C.