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All the United States Virginia Great Falls

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Great Falls

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

Updated June 16, 2021

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Unusual Attractions in Great Falls

Remaining two radar towers and roll-top observatory. (2020)

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.
The east side of Colvin Run Mill.

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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Add it!

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
Radar dome. (2019)

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
Water tank tower.

Potomac, Maryland

Maryland Gold Mine Ruins

The ruins of this long-abandoned unsuccessful gold mine can still be found.
3 miles from Great Falls
A panoramic view of Dranesville Tavern

Herndon, Virginia

Dranesville Tavern

A tavern that is no longer in Dranesville.
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
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    wants to go to Great Falls Nike Fire Control Site W-83

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    wants to go to Colvin Run Mill and General Store

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