It is sometimes fun to be a tourist right in your own backyard, especially when it comes to local history. The Manassas National Battlefield Park is worth penciling in a visit soon. Home to The Battle of Bull Run in 1861 (aka The Battle of First Manassas) and a second subsequent battle in 1862, these fields play a very important role in our history. The first battle was the first real battle of the American Civil War. The Henry Hill Visitor Center on-site unearths the battles and brings them to life with information gathered throughout the years, they also offer free guided tours through November 30. The best part? It’s all free! Donations are accepted but there is no mandatory fee to enter the park. The visitor center is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. so plan your visit accordingly.

Beyond the historical value, you can also visit to take advantage of the recreational activities like hiking on the expansive, beautifully maintained trails, fishing or packing a picnic before the weather gets too chilly.

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A glass of wine while getting your nails done? Don’t mind if we do! Paris Nails Day Spa is the ultimate escape, promising a day of pampering to all who walk through the door.

With over 11 options for manicures and over 15 for pedicures, you’ll need to come back time and time again to try all the awesome options. One of the most unique is the coffee mani pedi option, which exudes that delicious coffee smell with the addition of bath salts. Looking for a date idea you haven’t tried yet? Get a couple's mani pedi. They also offer Men’s Sport packages for men who are looking to be pampered. Combo mani pedi packages start as low as $40, and they’re worth every penny.

If you want to make a full day of it you can add on massages, ear candling, or a facial. Pampering packages start at only $105 for a mani pedi, mini facial, massage, and drink.

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The Center for the Arts at The Candy Factory is always moving eccentric and impressive exhibits in and out for the public to admire. Taking center stage right now is the Printmakers, Inc. exhibit, which runs through Oct. 29. This one-of-a-kind exhibit showcases the work of 12 printmakers who share studio space at Printmakers, Inc., where their creativity flows freely. Their work is so impressive that some pieces can be found hanging in prestigious establishments such as the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

One of the goals of the artists who share the studio is to spread the word about their artform and educate the public the incredible ins and outs of printmaking. They will be hosting a meet-and-greet with the artists on the last day of the exhibit, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. so that you can meet the brains behind the magic. The exhibit is free, so visit a few times to capture the full experience.

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