Musical story time. The Magic Treehouse book club. An English conversation group. These are just three recent events that have unfolded within the walls of Ashburn Library, a space that doubles as a community gathering place.

Ashburn Library offers both public computers and meeting rooms for its members' convenience, and these are just the frills in addition to its full inventory of books. One Yelp reviewer runs down the division of the library between kids' books (there's a large selection of them) and novels and texts for adults and adolescents. According to the same reviewer, Ashburn Library also boasts a decent collection of DVDs, CDs, and games. Other guests compliment the look of the library, its modern feel, and the staff. According to several fans, the front desk employees and librarians are always happy to help or just offer a smile and a greeting.

Ashburn Library
43316 Hay Road
Ashburn, VA 20147
(703) 737-8100
library.loudoun.gov/Our-Libraries/Ashburn-Library
www.yelp.com/biz/ashburn-library-ashburn

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Alexandre Duret-Lutz

Whether you’re caught in a creative drought, seeking an outlet for a flood of artistic inspiration or simply looking for a fun and spontaneous way to spend a few hours, drop into The Art Station to let your imagination run wild. The Art Station offers drop-in “Open Studio” hours where visitors can participate in one of self-guided candle-making, stenciling or painting projects at their leisure. For more structure, you may wish to register for one of their many instructor-led classes aimed at engaging the imagination and stimulating creative exploration. Classes are available at all skill levels and for all ages.

The Art Station may also be reserved for private parties and special events. Visit their website for detailed information on pricing, class availability and to learn more about the creative minds who keep artistic expression fresh and fun in Leesburg.

The Art Station
1601 Village Market Boulevard
Leesburg, VA 20175
http://www.theartstation.com
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-art-station-leesburg

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/supernico26

If you're craving a hearty, home-cooked meal and an ice cold beer to go with it, head to Sweet Water Tavern. This Ashburn-area brewery and restaurant serves a Western-inspired menu of items like the drunken ribeye, fresh seafood, pastas, and salads.

There is a wholesome kids' menu filled with cheeseburgers and small steaks, as well as shareable appetizers like the Tex Mex eggrolls. For lunch, Sweet Water Tavern offers lighter salads and sandwiches, but everything is still served in generous portions that will leave you satisfied. Because Sweet Water Tavern doubles as a brewery, diners can also expect to encounter a variety of handcrafted beers on tap, which are made right on site.

The atmosphere at Sweet Water Tavern is upscale yet casual, with rustic wooden tables, an old-fashioned bar, and a covered outdoor patio perfect for summer evenings.

Sweet Water Tavern
45980 Waterview Plaza
Sterling, VA 20166
(571) 434-6500
www.greatamericanrestaurants.com/sweetwater/sterling
www.yelp.com/biz/sweetwater-tavern-sterling

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr regan76