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The Atlas Obscura Guide To Great Falls

2 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Great Falls, Virginia

Updated June 16, 2021

Unusual Attractions in Great Falls

Great Falls, Virginia

Great Falls Nike Fire Control Site W-83

This former Cold War missile control site played an important role in the creation of GPS.

Great Falls, Virginia

Colvin Run Mill and General Store

The only surviving 19th-century water-powered mill found in the Washington, D.C. area.

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McLean, Virginia

Patowmack Canal

The semi-reclaimed ruins of this canal were once part of an ambitious plan to reroute the mighty potomac.

1 mile from Great Falls

Herndon, Virginia

Nike Missile Launch Site W-83

An out-of-place Air Force radar dome is all that denotes this park as a former missile launch site.

2 miles from Great Falls

Potomac, Maryland

Maryland Gold Mine Ruins

The ruins of this long-abandoned unsuccessful gold mine can still be found.

3 miles from Great Falls

Vienna, Virginia

Dolhareubang of Meadowlark Gardens

Volcanic stone sentinels stand watch at a Korean Bell Garden in Virginia.

4 miles from Great Falls

Vienna, Virginia

Lahey Lost Valley House

A small brick parlor house and artist's studio located in the wilderness is surrounded by imposing suburban palaces.

4 miles from Great Falls

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Parks 1 Military History 1 Cold War 1 Nuclear 1

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