By Nate Christie, rising sophomore at Washington and Jefferson College.

As a college student who loves being active, play subpar golf and have a great meal, living in Loudoun, specifically Purcellville, my whole life makes it easy to do all these things. After spending a year away, I was reminded just how much Loudoun has to offer when I came back for the summer. Here are some must-visit spots you should check out when visiting the destination I love.

My Favorite Outdoor Spots

Bears Den Overlook

Young Nate with his family at Bears Den Overlook in Loudoun County

I love being outdoors, hiking and finding a great view. Bears Den Overlook has provided all of this and more for as long as I can remember. Bears Den offers a great hike that, at times, is challenging but also rewarding when you reach the top. Make sure to go later in the day and enjoy a beautiful sunset while sitting on the rocks.

Franklin Park

Aerial view of Franklin Park in Purcellville with athletic fields, walking paths, and the Blue Ridge beyond

Franklin Park has always been special to me as it was the epicenter of most of my practices and games as I came up through the youth sports leagues in Loudoun. But as I got older, I grew to appreciate the multi-use courts that my friends and I play pickleball on and the countless walking trails around the property. You can't mention Franklin Park without bringing up the amazing water park, which is fantastic on those hot and humid summer days.

Algonkian Golf Course

Manicured fairways and landscaped flower beds at Algonkian Regional Park golf course in Sterling, Virginia

As an avid golfer, finding a good golf course close to home has been a priority since I got back from college. Algonkian Golf Course was the perfect place- not too far from home, located right by the Potomac River, fairly priced and with a somewhat challenging layout. Expect a great golf experience that you and all your buddies can enjoy.

My Favorite Spots to Eat

BKD Bagels - Purcellville

Exterior of BKD Bagels in Purcellville, a white farmhouse building with a covered porch and hanging ferns

I love a good breakfast sandwich in the morning, and BKD Bagels provides just that. With a wide selection of bagels, breads, proteins, spreads and specialty sandwiches, BKD will never bore you with a lack of variety. My personal go-to has to be the hangover on an everything bagel.

Finn Thai

If I'm craving a strong amount of spice, Finn Thai is where I go. With several locations throughout Loudoun, Finn Thai serves some of my favorite Thai cuisine. The Drunken Noodles never fail to hit the spot, and an order of vegetable spring rolls is a must every time I go.

Tipped Cow Creamery

Nate standing outside Tipped Cow Creamery in Purcellville Virginia

I have a major sweet tooth, so when Tipped Cow Creamery opened in Purcellville, it automatically became my go-to spot. Since Tipped Cow makes all its ice cream in-house, you'll get the freshest product every time you go. My ride-or-die flavor has to be chocolate, but it's impossible to go wrong with any flavor.

All My Must-Visit Spots