4 Most Beautiful Historic Buildings in Manassas
Manassas, Virginia, approximately 15 miles southwest of Washington, D.C., is the location of the first major battle of the Civil War. The First Battle of Bull Run, also known as the Battle of First Manassas, took place on July 21, 1861, near Manassas Junction. Confederate troops established Camp Pickens at Manassas Junction, which today is the Manassas Historic District. Manassas is home to many beautiful historic buildings, including the Railroad Depot, the county courthouse, a plantation mansion, and an old candy factory. Keep reading to learn more about these fantastic historic buildings.
The Manassas Railroad Depot

During the mid-1800s, Manassas Junction was an essential link between two key train lines. The Orange and Alexandria Railroad ran from Washington, D.C., and Alexandria, Virginia, to Lynchburg, Virginia. The Manassas Gap Railroad started in Mount Jackson in the west and intersected with the Orange and Alexandria Railroad at Manassas Junction, allowing for the transport of troops and materials during the Civil War. The area was a significant military encampment for both Confederate and Union troops since it connected the Shenandoah Valley and Richmond to Washington, D.C.
The first train depot was a small log building built in the late 1800s, which was replaced by a brick building in 1904. After a fire destroyed most of the brick building, the railroad company built the historic Manassas Railroad Depot in 1914. The City of Manassas acquired the building in 1997 from the Norfolk Southern Railway and restored it to resemble the 1914 depot, reproducing the original structure’s wood moldings, doors, light fixtures, and clay tile roof.
Today, the Manassas Railroad Depot houses a busy train depot, a railroad museum, and the Historic Manassas Visitor Center. The museum features the James and Marion Payne Memorial Railroad Heritage Gallery, containing photos and memorabilia documenting the railroad’s history. The Historic Manassas Visitor Center is open daily and offers brochures and maps of the area.
The Annual Manassas Heritage Railway Festival takes place every June and features 30-minute train excursions, model railroad displays, and historical exhibits. Visit the Manassas Railroad Depot and Visitor Center at 9431 West St. in Manassas.
Old Manassas Courthouse
The Old Manassas Courthouse is a Romanesque-style building constructed in 1894. The two-story sandstone and brick building features a clock tower and cupola. It became the courthouse of Prince William County in 1897 since it was closer to the railroad station than the original county courthouse in Brentsville.
Over the summer of 1911, the Manassas National Peace Jubilee was a week-long event and Civil War veterans’ reunion at the courthouse. The Jubilee was a significant event, the first to unite Union and Confederate veterans after the war. The Peace Jubilee culminated with a speech by President William Howard Taft. After his speech, President Taft and Virginia Governor William Hodges Mann shook hands to signify national peace and unity. Several years later, in 1915, the county commemorated the Manassas Peace Jubilee with the dedication of a monument featuring two cannons and two anchors with heavy iron chains.
The Old Manassas Courthouse functioned as the Prince William County Courthouse until 1982, and it’s the second-oldest courthouse remaining in Prince William County. The City of Manassas restored the building in 2001, and today it houses several clerical offices. An upstairs courtroom was converted into an elegant hall and is available for rental for receptions and special events. The National Register of Historic Places added the courthouse to its registry in 2004. The Old Manassas Courthouse is located at 9248 Lee Ave. in Manassas.
Liberia House
The two-story brick plantation estate Liberia House is another beautiful historic building in Manassas. Built by the Weir family in 1825, the property was originally a plantation producing grains and vegetables and home to sheep, horses, and cattle. By the mid-1800s, the plantation was one of the largest and most profitable in the area.
During the Civil War, the Weir family evacuated the estate, and the house became headquarters first for Confederate General P.G.T. Beauregard and later for Union General Irvin McDowell. Presidents Jefferson Davis and Abraham Lincoln each visited Liberia House during the war. After the war ended, Liberia House never fully operated again as a plantation. But it was a successful dairy farm for many years.
In 1986, the City of Manassas received the Liberia Mansion as a donation from owners I.J. and Hilda Breeden for historic preservation. Today, the Manassas Museum System manages the property, which hosts special events and is available for rental. Visit Liberia House at 8601 Portner Ave. in Manassas.
ARTfactory (Originally Hopkins Candy Factory)
C.S. Hopkins founded the Hopkins Candy Factory in 1900. The factory employed 25 people and produced peanut bars, stick candy, and other confectioneries sold by traveling salespeople. After a fire destroyed the original building in late 1905, Manassas architect Albert Speiden designed the new factory — a four-story brick building built in 1908. The business was highly successful, shipping 5 to 10 tons of candy daily from late 1908 until 1917 when the company sold the building.
Over the following years, the facility housed several other businesses, including the Manassas Feed and Milling Company, whose original advertisements remain on the building’s brick walls today. Subsequent businesses include the Southern States Manassas Cooperative and a tire warehouse operated by Caton and Mae Merchant.
The City of Manassas acquired the property as a donation from the Merchant family in 1998 and later restored the building. Today, the Center for the Arts of Greater Manassas leases the building, which is now a community arts and culture center called ARTfactory. The art center provides classrooms and a performing arts theater. It’s also home to the Caton Merchant Family art gallery, featuring the work of local and regional artists. You can find the ARTfactory at 9419 Battle St. in Manassas.
Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC is happy to serve and support the Manassas community. We hope you enjoy exploring these beautiful historic buildings. Did we leave out any of the key sites in Manassas? Send us a message and tell us which historical places you enjoy visiting in the Manassas area.
Image by felipepelaquim is licensed with Unsplash License
The 2023 Buick Encore vs. Encore GX
When you’re looking for a new vehicle and comparing SUVs, you won’t want to leave out the Buick Encore and Encore GX. While these models have some similarities, it’s important to note their differences as well to ensure you make an informed decision before going through with your purchase. Both of these vehicles are stylish, comfortable, and sophisticated, but let’s look at a comparison of the two to help you decide which model best suits your needs. Here’s a closer look at the Encore versus the Encore GX.
Power and Performance

Starting with the Buick Encore, you’ll find a capable 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine under the hood. It can generate 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, which is perfect for either your daily commute or longer trips out of town. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that moves seamlessly through the gears. The Encore is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, so you can choose the option that suits your driving style and needs. You’ll enjoy an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and up to 32 mpg when you take it out on the highway.
Moving on to the Encore GX, you’ll get a three-cylinder turbocharged 1.2-liter engine as standard, which delivers 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Although this engine is quite capable of handling city driving, you may want to upgrade to the optional 1.3-liter engine for a little more get-up-and-go. This optional block puts out 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Both engines pair with a smooth-shifting continuously variable transmission and feature a stop/start system that helps with fuel economy. Front-wheel drive is standard, but you can upgrade to all-wheel drive for improved traction.
Compared to the Encore, the Encore GX offers slightly better fuel economy in the city at 29 mpg but a little lower on the highway at 31 mpg for the first two trims, though the Essence trim does get up to 32 mpg. In addition, the ground clearance varies between these models, with the Encore having 6.22 inches and the Encore GX sitting at 7.5 inches.
Exterior Design
At a glance, both models appear similar, but on closer inspection, you’ll notice the variations between their appearances. One of the main differences between them is their size. The overall length of the Encore is 168.35 inches, while the Encore GX measures 171.4 inches. For the Encore, you’ll get a 100.6-inch wheelbase, and the Encore GX has a wheelbase of 102.2 inches. In addition, the Encore GX has LED fog lights and active shutters on the lower front grille, which make it stand out from the Encore. QuietTuning, designed to block out road noise, comes on both models.
Some of the exceptional features that these two SUVs share include heated power side mirrors, body-color door handles, LED daytime running lights, and a compact 16-inch spare tire. Available features for the Encore you may want to add include a power moonroof, roof rack cross rails, and a wheel lock kit. For the Encore GX, consider adding upgrades such as a keyless entry pad, a hands-free power liftgate, and front and rear sport bumpers for even more appeal. You can also choose from a couple of different grille looks to give your new ride a style all its own.
Interior Comfort and Technology
No matter which version of the Encore you fall in love with, you’ll enjoy plenty of comfort features when you’re riding in the well-appointed cabin. Both SUVs have plenty of seating for up to five passengers, with head and legroom up front providing about the same amount of space in either car. Rear seat passengers, however, will find a little more room to spread out in the Encore GX.
Other standard interior comforts for the Encore GX include:
- Six-speaker audio system.
- Buick infotainment system with an 8-inch color touch screen.
- Cargo cover.
- USB charging ports.
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel.
- Wi-Fi hot spot capability.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Keyless open and start.
You can also add these available interior features to the Encore GX:
- Heated front seats.
- Head-up display.
- Cargo area organizer.
- All-weather floor mats and cargo liner.
- Wireless charging.
If you opt for the Encore, you’ll get these standard interior features:
- Six-way power driver’s seat.
- Six-speaker audio system.
- Buick infotainment system with a 7-inch color touch screen.
- Chrome door handles.
- Front passenger underseat storage.
- Steering wheel-mounted controls.
- Wi-Fi hot spot capability.
Other features that are available for the Encore include:
- Remote start.
- Cup holder lighting kit.
- Cargo net.
- Cargo area tray.
- 120-volt power outlet.
Many of the features in the cabins of these SUVs are similar, but with each having its own unique style, you might want to try them both out to determine which one feels more comfortable to you.
Safety Features
Safety is everything when you’re cruising the highways or commuting to work, and both the Encore and the Encore GX have a number of great safety features that will help you feel secure when you’re traveling. Parents of young children will be happy to know that both SUVs come equipped with the LATCH system for securing child safety seats. If you have a teenager who might get behind the wheel, the Encore GX offers Teen Driver technology, which can help you monitor your teen’s driving habits and set limits for them until they have more experience on the road.
Additionally, both vehicles have a rearview camera to give you a better view of what’s around you and a tire pressure monitoring system so you can ensure your tires are always properly inflated. Lane keep assist with a lane departure warning is standard on the Encore GX and available on the Encore. Side blind zone alert is an available safety feature for both models, as is rear park assist.
If you’re ready to trade in your old car for either the Encore or the Encore GX, then come by Koons Buick GMC in Woodbridge. Our sales team will be happy to show you the details of both models so you can decide for yourself which one is more appealing. Contact us today or come to our dealership in Woodbridge for a test drive.
White SUV by Mengliu Di is licensed with Pexels License
2023 GMC Sierra Towing Capacity
There are a variety of light-duty trucks on the market, but none compare to the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. This incredible truck offers a range of exceptional features that make it stand out from the rest. If you’re in the market for a brand-new light-duty pickup with an aggressive stance and a powerful performance, check out what the Sierra 1500 has in store. From its great towing capacity to its comfortable interior, this truck has everything you need for a comfortable ride. Here’s a closer look at the GMC Sierra 1500.
Trim Levels

You’ll have eight stylish trim levels to choose from for the new Sierra 1500. These are the trims and the starting MSRPs for each to help you understand what’s available and how much it will cost:
- Pro: $38,195.
- SLE: $49,495.
- Elevation: $51,095.
- SLT: $54,995.
- Denali: $65,595.
- AT4: $66,195.
- AT4X: $79,295.
- Denali Ultimate: $82,295.
Each of these trims offers features that make them unique from the others. As you move up through the trim levels, you’ll find more options that help them prove their worth.
Engine Options
With four engine options to choose from, you’re sure to find a 2023 Sierra 1500 that meets your power and performance needs. The base engine is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder gas-powered turbocharged option. It delivers 310 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, but if this isn’t enough power for you, there are two V-8 engines available. The first is a 5.3-liter 355-horsepower block that puts out 383 lb-ft of torque. The other is a 6.2-liter engine that generates 420 horsepower and up to 460 lb-ft of torque.
Last but certainly not least in the Sierra 1500’s engine lineup is the turbodiesel option. This six-cylinder Duramax diesel engine pumps out 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The base engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic tranny, while the other engines are paired to a 10-speed transmission. Either way, you’ll enjoy smooth and easy shifting.
Towing Capacity
How you equip your Sierra 1500 will determine how much towing capacity and payload ability you’ll have available. With the trailering package and other equipment in place, it can tow a maximum load of up to 13,200 pounds. Additionally, you’ll be able to carry a payload of up to 2,240 pounds when this truck is properly equipped. With these ratings, you should have no problem getting any towing job done or taking out your toys for a weekend adventure.
Features that can help make towing a breeze include:
- Trailer side blind zone alert: This feature lets you know if something is in the blind zone of your trailer.
- In-vehicle trailering app: With this app, you’ll have access to custom trailer profiles, trailer tire pressure monitoring, and a departure checklist.
- Smart trailer integration: Trailers with this feature let you monitor and control systems like heat, ventilation, air conditioning, water tanks, and slide-outs.
Exterior Dimensions
The 2023 Sierra 1500 is offered as a crew, regular, or double cab with either a short, standard, or long box. This means you can configure your Sierra 1500 to meet your personal needs. Things like the wheelbase, overall length, and ground clearance will vary based on the model and packages you might add to your truck.
Most models have just under 8 inches of ground clearance, while the off-road version adds a 2-inch lift kit to ensure you make it over any terrain. The wheelbase sits at around 150 inches, give or take, and the overall length can vary but averages between 230 inches and 240 inches. Wheel sizes also vary depending on your setup, but you’ll have the option of 17-inch, 18-inch, 20-inch, or 22-inch wheels for your GMC Sierra 1500. A CornerStep rear bumper makes it easy to access the truck bed.
Interior Dimensions
Inside, the Sierra 1500 offers drivers plenty of room and features to make every ride comfortable and convenient. Those sitting up front can spread out with 43 inches of headroom and 44.5 inches of legroom. Room for rear-seat passengers will vary based on the cab layout you choose but can be as much as 40 inches for headroom and 43 inches for legroom.
Other features that make the interior appealing include a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel that makes it easy to see all your important driver information. It comes standard starting at the SLE trim level, with easy-to-reach controls and high-quality materials throughout. At higher trim levels, you’ll find features like a head-up display, open-pore wood trim, 16-way adjustable driver’s seat with massage function, and leather surfaces. Bluetooth is standard, and you can opt for the Bose premium sound system for incredible sound as you cruise down the road. Dual-zone climate control helps keep everyone at the right temperature, regardless of the weather.
Other Features
There are many other features to enjoy when you buy a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. Some of its standard and available safety technology include:
- Multicamera system.
- Super Cruise hands-free driving.
- Forward collision warning.
- Automatic emergency braking.
- Lane departure warning.
- Lane-keep assist.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
- Rear cross-traffic alert.
Drivers will love these technology features that are either standard or available:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 13.4-inch infotainment touch screen.
- Wireless phone charging.
- 12-speaker Bose sound system.
- Heated front seats.
- Heated steering wheel.
- Steering wheel-mounted controls.
- Remote start.
- USB ports.
The exterior of the truck also offers some additional standard and available features that will appeal to you:
- MultiPro tailgate.
- Cargo bed lighting.
- Extra skid plates.
- Steel front bumper with a winch.
When you’re ready to see this truck for yourself, contact our team at Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC. We’d love to take you for a spin and show you what this light-duty pickup can do for you. Our team can handle your financing needs and help you with your trade-in to make your next truck purchase simple and hassle-free. Stop by and see us today so you can start driving this truck or whatever else you like on the lot.
GMC Sierra Parked in the trees by Brad Killen is licensed with Unsplash License
Top 5 Woodbridge Attractions to Visit
Whether you’re new to Woodbridge or have called this city home for years, there are a few can’t-miss attractions to experience in Woodbridge, Virginia. Below, you can read about some of the best places to visit in Woodbridge.
Go on a Shopping Spree at Potomac Mills
Potomac Mills, formerly known as Washington Outlet Mall, is a shopping center right off I-95. You can spend hours walking around the center and exploring the hundreds of retail stores. You can buy anything from clothes and shoes to sporting gear and luxury items like purses and watches from high-quality, designer-name brands.
Potomac Mills has over 30 eateries where you can stop and enjoy a delightful meal in the middle of your shopping. These establishments feature foods from various cuisines like Greek, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican, and American, so you’re bound to find something you like. If you need to unwind after a long day of shopping, you can head to the center’s movie theater to relax and watch a film.
While you’re in the spirit of shopping for new items for yourself, consider your current vehicle situation, and visit us at Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC if you need a vehicle upgrade. You can browse our inventory and check out new or pre-owned vehicle specials to secure the best deal.
Go Back in Time at the Rippon Lodge
Prince William County is rich in history, and you can discover some of this history by visiting the Rippon Lodge. This modest house was the county’s second permanent residence and is now the oldest standing house in the area. Richard Blackburn, a highly respected sailor, first built this lodge in 1747. Other families lived in it throughout the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries until Prince William County bought it in 2000. The county carefully restored the house to bring back its historic charm and preserve the history behind it.
Today, you can visit the Rippon Lodge to admire its architecture and imagine yourself as one of its first residents. You can stroll the property’s gardens and grounds while enjoying awe-inspiring views of the Neabsco Creek and Potomac River. There are nearby walking trails to enjoy if you want to add some extra steps, including the Neabsco Creek Boardwalk. Visitors can further immerse themselves in the lodge’s history by visiting the Atkinson and Blackburn family cemetery.
Feel free to explore on your own or join a tour group. The county follows a consistent tour schedule from May to October, so be sure to show up during touring hours. You may also make an appointment if you’d like to be a part of a tour outside of the regular tour hours.
Immerse Yourself in Nature at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge

The Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful natural site where the Potomac and Occoquan rivers meet. It’s open year-round, so you and your family can enjoy it no matter the time of year. Feel free to drive on through, as there’s a 1-mile wildlife drive if you prefer to stay in your vehicle. If you have the time to get out and explore, you can do so on the 3 miles of hiking trails.
These trails offer access to the area’s tidal marshes and grasslands, so you don’t have to miss out on a single inch of this beautiful scenery. The Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge also has several trails that are wheelchair accessible, which makes them inclusive for everyone to enjoy.
You’ll want to bring a set of binoculars or a camera with you on your visit here to observe all the wildlife in their natural habitat. Reports have shown that at least 200 species of birds, including raptors and waterfowl, and 650 species of plants have been spotted at this site. Eastern gamagrass is abundant in Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and you may spot red fox and various types of deer wandering through the refuge.
Get Some Fresh Air at Belmont Bay Harbor
Belmont Bay Harbor is a beautiful marina in Woodbridge. It has a protected status, so you won’t see boats zooming by. Instead, it’s part of a no-wake zone to retain its calm and relaxing scenery. You can visit Belmont Bay Harbor and walk around the floating dock, observe the hundred or so boats that are docked here, and marvel at the beauty of the Occoquan River.
If you’d like, you can sign up for a boat cruise where an experienced tour guide will show you around the river. If you don’t have your sea legs and prefer to stay on land, there’s still plenty for you to do. You can shop for Belmont Bay merchandise at the gift shop or check out the harbormaster building to learn more about the marina’s operations.
Have a Family Day at Veterans Memorial Park
Veterans Memorial Park in Woodbridge is a great place to have fun with the whole family. This park is adjacent to Occoquan Bay National Water Reserve, Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge, and Marumsco Creek, so you can continue the outdoor fun here after a day at one of these sites.
Veterans Memorial Park has soccer fields, baseball diamonds, grassy areas, pickleball courts, swimming pools, and volleyball courts for visitors to enjoy. Little ones can go on the playground and enjoy endless fun on the swings, slides, and monkey bars. Older kids and kids at heart can pop an ollie and work on other shredding tricks on the park’s skate ramp. If interested, you can join a sports league or sign up for a dance class that the park hosts year-round.
Stop By Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC While You’re Out
As you’re exploring all the exciting attractions and memorable spots of Woodbridge, Virginia, you’ll want to have a reliable vehicle to get you where you want to go. Whether you need vehicle maintenance for your current car or truck, or want to complete a trade-in to get a new vehicle, you can contact our team or stop by our dealership today.
Nature by S.D Photo is licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0
The GMC Acadia Is Capable Beyond Its Midsize


If you need extra seating, to go in the snow, or to pull a trailer, an Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC Acadia is the mid-sized SUV to own.
Seating Enough For A Large Family Or Group
Whether you have a large family, carpool, or chauffer your kid’s team, Acadia has the interior room you need. Utilize Acadia’s standard third-row seating, and you’ll be able to transport up to seven passengers.
When The Going Gets Tough, Acadia Keeps Going
On bad roads, Acadia is more than capable of getting you where you’re going. The Traction Select System that comes with every Acadia features three modes, including Snow Mode, that let you adjust your Acadia’s driving wheels to navigate snowy roads safely. Choose Sport Mode to enjoy sports car-like performance when driving through Woodbridge.
Acadia Is Built To Tow
Acadia lets you select between a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo or 3.6L V-6, so you get all the trailering power you need.
Here’s What the GMC Canyon Can Do


The GMC Canyon is an athletic pickup that’s poised to take on just about any challenge. It inspires confidence, and it handles itself well in many types of terrain. If you’ve been searching for a truck in Woodbridge that you can count on, this model could be the right one for you.
Most of the Canyons that we have at Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC run on V6 engines. One of these engines, which has a displacement of 3.6 liters, can deliver 308 horsepower, along with 275 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive is an option, and an eight-speed automatic transmission is standard.
The other option to consider is a 2.8-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel. This engine comes with 181 horsepower, and it increases torque to 369 pound-feet. Like the standard V6, the diesel can give you a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. It’s notably more efficient than its counterpart, so this is one reason why it’s intriguing.
10 Great Things About Fairfax, VA
Whether you’re looking for arts, entertainment, food, or history, you’ll find it in Fairfax, Virginia. This world-class community outside of Washington, D.C. offers something for everyone. We could list thousands of reasons why Fairfax is a great place to live, work, and visit, but here are 10 things that top the list:
Location

With its small-town charm and easy access to the nation’s capital, the suburban Fairfax region offers the best of both worlds. It’s a short 20-minute drive to Washington, D.C., which you can access via Interstate 66 or U.S. Highway 29. The city is close to three major airports, including Dulles International Airport, and offers several mass transit options, including the Washington Metro. Even with its proximity to metropolitan Washington, D.C., Fairfax remains a quaint community where residents enjoy a high quality of life, which is why it’s continually recognized as one of the top places to live in the U.S.
History
The City of Fairfax and greater Fairfax County have a significant role in U.S. history. The city became a site of conflict during the American Civil War when the first land battle occurred there, which came to be known as the Battle of Fairfax Court House. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Fairfax transformed into a thriving commercial area, and rapid growth continued to occur in business and population after World War II. With such a rich history, Fairfax can provide a unique perspective on the past while offering valuable insight into the future.
Parks and Green Space
In Fairfax County, you could visit a new park every day for a year and still not see them all. With over 400 parks in the area, the community offers plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and stretch your legs. Whether you prefer to take a walk along the water, visit a historic site, or go ice skating in the winter, there’s a park for you to enjoy. The Fairfax County Park Authority also manages a working farm, a horticultural center, a kayaking and canoe center, off-leash dog parks, and eight golf courses throughout the area.
Museums
Fairfax County is home to many world-class museums. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit Mount Vernon, the historic home of the first U.S. president, George Washington. Another museum, the Historic Blenheim, offers insight into the Civil War with a large volume of signatures, pictographs, and writings inscribed on the walls by Union soldiers. If you’re interested in space or aviation, don’t miss the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, which displays thousands of artifacts, including the Space Shuttle Discovery.
Arts
The Fairfax region boasts a vibrant arts scene. You can visit the Pope-Leighey House, the only public Frank Lloyd Wright work in Virginia, or the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, the only national park dedicated to the performing arts. There are also numerous art galleries and studios throughout Fairfax County, where artists can share their work with the community.
Food and Drink
No matter what you’re craving, you can find it in Fairfax. From a five-course meal at 2941 Restaurant to modern European dishes at Maple Ave Restaurant to the delicious dim sum at Mama Chang, you can experience an array of global, diverse flavors without leaving Fairfax County. The region is also home to over a dozen craft breweries and several wineries, where you can sip on award-winning beer and wine.
Shopping
Fairfax is a true shopping destination, whether you want to spend an afternoon browsing small boutiques, thrifting for a one-of-a-kind vintage item, or exploring a local farmers market. The Fair Oaks Mall is your one-stop shopping center, featuring over 160 popular stores and restaurants. For a more traditional “main street” shopping experience, visit Fairfax Corner, a mixed-use shopping center with national chains, local boutiques, restaurants, and a state-of-the-art movie theater.
Entertainment
It’s impossible to be bored in Fairfax. The region offers various entertainment options, from music to theater to games and activities. During the summer months, you can visit a water park or mini golf course. When the weather turns colder, head to one of the area’s many indoor rinks for a spin around the ice. Other fun entertainment options in Fairfax County include escape rooms, arcades, movie theaters, and bowling alleys. If you’re looking for nightlife, Fairfax has many live music venues, sports bars, and clubs where you can enjoy a night out on the town.
Events
No other place does a festival quite like Fairfax. Every year, the region hosts various events and celebrations. In the fall, Old Town Fairfax opens for the Fall Festival, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. You can get all your holiday shopping done during the Holiday Craft Show at Fairfax High School. In the summer, celebrate Independence Day at the city’s annual parade and dazzling fireworks show. Don’t forget about the annual Chocolate Lovers Festival, where you can sample as many tasty treats and goodies as you want.
People
While all the above reasons make Fairfax a wonderful place to live and work, the best part about this region is the people. In Fairfax, people smile when they pass each other in the street and ask their neighbors how they’re doing. They support each other during difficult times and come together to celebrate the good ones. Even without all the other reasons to love Fairfax, the people here would still make this community special.
There you have it — 10 reasons to love Fairfax, Virginia. If you live in Fairfax or you’ve visited before, what’s your favorite part about the area? Did we miss one of its best features? Send a message to Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC and let us know. We’re happy to add your suggestion to our list so we can continue highlighting the many reasons we enjoy working and living in this community.
Find Your Next Vehicle Near Fairfax, Virginia
When you’re ready to buy your next vehicle near Fairfax, Virginia, we hope you’ll visit Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC. With an extensive inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles, affordable financing plans, and exceptional customer service, we can help you make your dream car a reality. We’ll even purchase your old car to make the process easier. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Train at Vienna/Fairfax-GMU station by Ben Schumin is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0
The Buick Terrain Interior Features
The new Buick Terrain has a lot to offer city drivers and weekend adventurers. There are many ways to customize this compact SUV to maximize your comfort and make your drive more enjoyable. Learning about the different ways to make your Terrain your own can help you find or build the perfect SUV for you and your family. Keep on reading to learn more about this stylish sport utility vehicle.
The New Buick Terrain

Spacious and a dedication to fine craftsmanship are two attributes that embody the Buick Terrain’s interior. With a variety of standard and available features along with almost unlimited customizable options, you can create the Terrain of your dreams inside and out.
Interior Comforts
Based on your Terrain’s trim model, you can enjoy a variety of plush materials and contrasting stitching to be the envy of your group. The SLE and SLT models come in either jet black or ash gray and jet black colors. If you opt for the AT4 trim, you can enjoy unique and colorful interior stitching, jet black leather-appointed seating, and seating trimming with the AT4 logo.
The premium Denali trim model has French-stitched leather-appointed front seats with decorative stitching to give the interior an additional touch of elegance. This trim also has burnished aluminum accents that catch the eye and provide a nice contrast against the sleek black seats. You can also enjoy dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated rear outboard seats to help make your drive comfortable no matter what the weather looks like outside.
Customizable Space
The customizable interior space enables you to fit everyone and everything for the journey ahead. You can adjust the interior space to have a maximum cargo space of 63.3 cubic feet of space that can fit items up to eight feet long with no problem. You can adjust your seating to fit just you or up to five passengers, so you can easily bring the whole crew along. With all seating up, you can enjoy up to 29.6 cubic feet of space, big enough to fit several suitcases, boxes, or duffel bags that your little ones need for their sports.
Speaking of your little ones, the second-row seating has two complete sets of latch connectors to secure your child’s car seat to the vehicle. The rear middle seat also has a tether anchor, so you can drive with peace of mind knowing that your child’s seats are securely installed in your SUV.
Technology Touches
Stay connected with the world around you with an eight-inch infotainment system and a head-up display that lets you learn more about your drive without having to take your eyes off the road. The head-up display projects custom vehicle information, like the speed limit, current driving speed, and audio information.
With the modern touch screen infotainment center, you can enjoy unique tech features like built-in navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto that connects your phone to your car for a seamless experience. Other key tech features include wireless charging for your smartphone and a standard Wi-Fi hotspot that connects up to seven devices. Each trim also comes equipped with a universal home remote so you can control your garage door, security alarm, and other home automation devices all with the simple touch of a button.
Entertainment for All
If you want to crank up the music on your commute to town, you can capitalize on the Bose premium seven-speaker sound system that’s available in the SLT and AT4 trims and standard in the Denali model. You and the crew can also charge up with not one, but two USB charging ports in the rear of the center console. If you upgrade to the infotainment package, you can also try a SiriusXM three-month platinum package so you can find your favorite tunes no matter where you go.
Safety Features
If safety is what you want, then you can’t go wrong with the GMC Terrain. This SUV is equipped with a standard six GMC Pro Safety features that include automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, forward collision alerts, front pedestrian braking, following distance indicator, and automatic high beams. The Denali offers all these six features, along with three more that includes front and rear park assist, lane change alert with side blind zone, and rear cross-traffic alerts.
Other safety items built-in include front, side, and head-curtain airbags to cushion you and your passengers. There’s also hill descent control for those tricky mountain roads, a rear vision camera, and a teen driver mode that can automatically disable or turn on certain safety and entertainment features.
Fun Upgrades
To further customize your ride and driving experience, there are also many upgrades to consider for your Buick Terrain. If you want to feel the sun overhead or want to gaze at the stars, you can opt for a panoramic sunroof. If protection is what you’re after, you can also upgrade to get first and second-row floor mats, a rear bench seat cover, or an integrated cargo liner to protect your floors from any dings or dirt from your adventures.
There is also a convenient cargo package that offers a retractable cargo shade, and a cargo net that can help keep your space organized and protected from prying eyes. Some other interior upgrades include a collapsible cargo area organizer, a horizontal cargo net, a first aid kit, and a highway safety kit.
So, are you ready to get into the Buick Terrain of your dreams? If so, you can call or stop by Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC today to take a test drive or take your new SUV home today. If you want to learn more about this spacious vehicle that’s made for any adventure, you can contact us and one of our team members will happily help you out. We look forward to hearing from you soon and helping you choose the perfect Buick Terrain today.
2023 Hyundai Tucson Interior Features
At Koons Woodbridge Hyundai, we can’t wait for the 2023 Tucson to arrive, and we expect drivers from Woodbridge and other areas of Virginia will be just as keen to see the new model. The Hyundai Tucson is one of the most popular small SUVs, and as it was fully redesigned for the 2022 model year, we’re not anticipating too many changes for the 2023 version. It will be available with a gasoline engine, a hybrid powertrain, or as a plug-in hybrid. So, here’s what you can expect for the new Tucson:
Distinctive Styling

After its redesign, the Tucson has a striking appearance that is sure to turn heads wherever you go. The bold grille is flanked by sleek LED headlights and cleverly concealed cascading LED daytime running lights. The profile features sharp creases and bulging fenders that give it an aggressive stance. At the rear, distinctive LED taillights set the Tucson apart from other SUVs.
Spacious Interior
The Tucson’s roomy cabin has an ultra-modern ambiance. With the available hoodless 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, the dash has a streamlined look that seems to create even more space. All the surfaces blend and flow to give the interior an uncluttered and airy feel, which is enhanced by the available panoramic sunroof.
This sophisticated SUV seats five people and offers 41.2 cubic feet of luggage space behind the 60/40-split rear seats. With the remote release second-row seats folded flat, you have an impressive 80.3-cubic-foot cargo area with a dual level floor. With the available hands-free power liftgate, you can easily access the cargo space, even with your hands full. The Tucson Hybrid has a slightly smaller cargo area of 74.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, while the plug-in hybrid has 66.3 cubic feet for your gear.
The Tucson offers plenty of space and comfort for everyone. Front seat passengers have a generous 40.1 inches of headroom and 41.4 inches of legroom, while those in the back have 39.5 inches and 41.3 inches of head and legroom respectively. In the Tucson Plug-In Hybrid, rear passengers have 39.5-inches of legroom.
Beautifully Appointed Cabin
Inside, the Tucson offers a wide array of standard and available features. The base SE trim has a remote keyless entry system, stylish stain-resistant fabric upholstery, a six-way adjustable driver’s seat, a reclining rear seat back, air conditioning, and a tilting and telescoping steering column. Helping keep your devices charged are two 12-volt power outlets in the front console and the cargo area.
In the SEL, you get proximity entry and push-button start, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, heated front seats, rear air vents, and front power windows with an auto up and down feature.
The sporty N Line adds unique black leather-trimmed cloth seats and red interior accents, dual-zone automatic temperature control with multi-air mode and auto defogger, a leather-bound steering wheel with the N logo, an exclusive N Line leather-bound shift knob, alloy pedals and scuff plates, an exclusive black headliner, and ambient lighting. The rugged XRT trim features cloth seating and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
Stepping up to the top-of-the-line Limited model gets you leather upholstery, driver’s seat memory, an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a shift-by-wire gear-change system, and a voice-controlled HVAC system. You can set the mood with LED interior lighting and 64-color customizable ambient lighting.
Advanced Technology
In SE trim, the infotainment system features Bluetooth for hands-free calling and media streaming, dual front USB ports, and a sound system with HD radio. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay enables you and your passengers to seamlessly connect phones and other devices without the nuisance of cables. You can control the system via the 8-inch touch screen or the steering-wheel-mounted audio and Bluetooth controls. The SEL adds dual rear USB ports, Sirius XM satellite radio, BlueLink connected car service and care package, and the BlueLink remote package
The N Line trim and above feature a 10.25-inch customizable digital instrument cluster and a 15-watt wireless device charger with a built-in fan to keep your phone cool while it’s charging. N Line and Limited models also offer a premium Bose audio system. Additionally, standard for the top three Tucson trims is Hyundai Digital Key. You can use your smartphone to lock and unlock the doors, start your SUV’s engine, and more.
With the Limited trim, you get a 10.25-inch touch screen with navigation and traffic-flow display, wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, and the BlueLink guidance package. This model also features Remote Smart Park Assist, which allows you to move your Tucson in and out of tight parking spaces at the touch of a button without you even being in the car.
Safety Comes Standard in the Tucson
The Tucson offers standard safety features that come as extras on other SUVs. Helping you stay in control are features such as electronic stability control, traction control, vehicle stability management, and an anti-lock braking system with brake assist.
The Tucson also comes equipped with the Hyundai SmartSense suite of driver assistance technologies to help keep you safe on Virginia’s roads. The system includes forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, driver attention alert, and rear occupant alert. A standard rearview monitor with dynamic grid lines makes for easy parking.
SEL models add forward collision mitigation with cyclist and intersection turning detection, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision mitigation, and safe exit warning. Go with the N Line for ultrasonic rear occupant alert and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink.
The Limited trim additionally offers navigation based adaptive cruise control with curve control, a surround view monitor, a blind-spot view monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and reverse parking collision avoidance assist.
At Koons Woodbridge Hyundai, we’re eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson, and we’re keen to show it to drivers from Woodbridge, Colchester, Southbridge, Bethel, and beyond. Come visit us to see our large inventory of Hyundai vehicles and talk to our friendly sales team to find out more about the 2023 Tucson.
Hyundai TUCSON greeting the sunrise by Hyundai Motor Group is licensed with Unsplash License
GMC Sierra 2023: What You Should Know
When shopping for a new truck, there are many options in the market depending on if you’re looking for light, medium, or heavy-duty vehicles. The 2023 GMC Sierra offers options in each of these categories, all with unique features and performance that can keep you safe and happy both on and off the road. Whether you’re using your new truck for construction work or as a tool to help family and friends transport materials in Woodbridge, Virginia, learning about the specs and features of the new Sierra model can help you decide if it’s the right automobile for you.
What’s New in the 2023 GMC Sierra

After GMC introduced a lot of big changes to the 2022 Sierra, you’ll see a lot of similar specifications and features for this model. They have the same engine and transmission options as the previous year across the various model options along with the standard GM T1 options. Let’s look at some of the other new features you can expect:
Technology
New to the 2023 GMC Sierra you’ll find a 13.4-inch infotainment system that comes standard on several trims like the SLE, Elevation, Denali, and Denali Ultimate. With personalization features, you can make your system your own while accessing your navigation, music, and other applications while out on the road. Also standard on some trims is the new 12.3-inch information center to keep you updated on your Sierra’s status. This includes tire pressure information, and how many miles you can travel based on your gas with several view options like classic, progressive, or digital.
Granite Package
New to the 2023 Sierra 1500, you can find the new Graphite Edition package. With this, you’ll get sleek exterior features like a body-colored upper grille, 20-inch high gloss wheels, all-season tires, and more. To get this package, you’ll need the double cab or the crew cab, as this isn’t available for the regular cab models. The Granite Package also comes with connectivity features like Wireless Phone Projection, OnStar, and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities.
What’s Changed for 2022
With the limited upgrades for 2023, there were many updates to the 2022 model. GMC made exterior changes for a redesigned front end. There were also new trims added, like the introduction to the Denali Ultimate and the AT4X, all with the options for new safety technology to enjoy. GMC also replaced an older six-cylinder engine and enabled the diesel engine to handle the max trailering package to tow up to 13,200 lbs.
Other Specifications and Options to Enjoy
Even though there might not be too many big changes after the overhaul for the 2022 model, there are still many options, features, and specifications for you to enjoy in the 2023 GMC Sierra. Let’s look at some of these to help you decide if this is the right truck for you.
Model and Trim Options
With the 2023 GMC Sierra, you can select from three model types, the classic 1500, the 1500 Limited, and the Sierra HD. These each come with unique features to enjoy. The 1500 has the most trims available. Starting with the basic Sierra Pro and moving up, you’ll find the SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, AT4X, Denali, and Denali Ultimate. The Limited has six trims to choose from including the Limited Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, Limited AT4, and the Limited Denali. The heavy duty option comes with a Pro, SLE, SLT, HD AT4, and a HD Denali.
Cab Options
For each of the models, you can choose between three cab options depending on if you need more room for passengers or equipment. You can select the regular, double, or crew cab. The regular can fit three passengers comfortably while the double and crew cab can help you get up to six people in the cabin. When choosing a cab size, be mindful that each come with different box options. The regular cab comes with a standard and long box, the double cab comes with a standard box, and the crew cab comes with either a short box or a standard.
Power and Performance
There are several engine options you can choose from with the GMC Sierra. These are all the same from the 2022 model. For the light-duty models, you can choose from between a 2.7-liter turbo engine, a 5.3-liter eight cylinder, a 6.2-liter eight cylinder, or a 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo. The 6.2-liter gets the most horsepower at 420 along with a torque of 460 lb-feet. The heavy-duty models put out some extra power, getting you up to 445 horsepower and a torque of 910 lb-feet. This is with the standard 6.6-liter turbo diesel engine on each of the HD trims.
Towing and Trailering
The towing and trailering capabilities on the 2023 Sierra can be one of the best reasons to buy this vehicle, as you can haul heavy equipment for your work needs or pull your camper when heading out with the family. The Sierra 1500 models can tow up to 13,000 lbs in the vehicle with a payload of around 2,240. The heavy-duty models with stronger engines and builds can tow up to a whopping 36,000 lbs. This includes a maximum payload of up to 7,442 lbs.
Now that you’re familiar with some of the key specifications and details for the 2023 GMC Sierra, it’s time to take a look at some of the new inventory we have to offer. Stop at Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC to test drive the 1500 or the heavy duty options to see how it feels, and discuss the different configurations you can get with our certified professionals.
Before you stop in, you can also check out our website with helpful resources to prepare for your visit. Start by valuing your trade or submitting a finance application to get an idea of how much you might pay to find a vehicle that fits within your budget. To help you out, we also have rotating incentives on select vehicles that can get you money off to make the process even easier on you and your wallet.
Red Sierra by Truck Hardware is licensed with CC BY 2.0

