Your New #1 Reason to Move to Northern Virginia: The Spotsylvania Water Park Effect

The Spotsylvania Water Park Effect: How a $900M Resort Is Redefining Northern Virginia Living

By Chris Colgan, Founder – Real Nova Network | ColganTeam.com

A new reality is taking shape in Northern Virginia—and it’s making families and real estate investors look twice at a county many once overlooked.

The headline: A $900 million Kalahari Resort—featuring Virginia’s largest indoor water park—is under construction in Spotsylvania County. More than just a splashy vacation destination, it’s a signal of seismic growth, long-term investment, and a new era for the region’s housing market.

Why It Matters

For families considering a move to the Washington D.C. metro area, amenities matter. But this isn’t just another suburban…

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Virginia Says “Hands Off” Discovery Shuttle: Udvar‑Hazy Center May Keep Its Star Attraction

Virginia Says “Hands Off” Discovery Shuttle: Udvar‑Hazy Center May Keep Its Star Attraction

Looking to live near the Smithsonian’s Udvar‑Hazy Center?
Find homes for sale in Chantilly, VA

A federal budget bill just reignited a fiery space turf war—and Fairfax County is not backing down.

A new provision in the U.S. Senate budget bill proposes relocating the Discovery space shuttle from its longtime home at the Smithsonian’s Steven F. Udvar‑Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA, to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX—allocating $85 million for the move.

But the Smithsonian asserts it isn’t going anywhere.

“Our position is that the Discovery is staying right where it is,”
— Chris Browne,…

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Tysons' $100M Makeover, Kalahari's $900M Mega Resort, and a Shifting Northern Virginia Housing Market

Why it matters:
Northern Virginia is at a pivotal moment. From a $100 million overhaul of Tysons Corner Center to a record-setting waterpark and resort breaking ground in Spotsylvania, the region is doubling down on experience, infrastructure, and future-proof growth—even as its housing market begins to shift. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, investor, or longtime resident, these changes signal major lifestyle and economic implications.

1. Tysons Corner Is Reimagining Retail

Driving the news:
Macerich, the developer behind Tysons Corner Center, has unveiled a $100 million investment to transform Northern Virginia’s most iconic mall into a more walkable, open-air destination.

The…

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Burnside Farms Sunflower Festival 2025: A Must-See Summer Tradition in Northern Virginia

Your Ultimate Guide to the Burnside Farms Sunflower Festival 2025

Discover everything you need to know about Nokesville's most iconic summer event.

• Location: Burnside Farms – 11008 Kettle Run Rd, Nokesville, VA 20181
• Dates: July 11 – Mid-August, 2025
• Contact: (703) 930-3052 | ticketing@burnsidefarms.com
• Tickets: Advance purchase required – Join the ticket alert list
• Follow: @chriscolganteam on Instagram for updates

Why It Matters

Burnside Farms isn’t just a sunflower field — it’s one of the most beloved and visually stunning summer attractions in all of Northern Virginia. From early morning golden light to evening concerts and foamy Friday dance parties, this 70-acre working farm turns Nokesville…

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Buc-ee’s in Stafford Is Stalled — And Embrey Mill Is Leading the Resistance

Buc-ee's in Stafford, VA: 74K Sq Ft Plan Halted by Traffic?

Stafford County could soon be home to one of the largest Buc-ee’s in the country—unless public backlash and highway infrastructure keep it from ever breaking ground.

The plan sounds simple: a 74,000-square-foot travel center in Stafford, VA, with 120 gas pumps, Tesla chargers, and fresh brisket by the pound. But 16 months after the initial filing, the project is going nowhere fast. And if you live in Embrey Mill, you probably already know why.

What’s happening

Buc-ee’s filed its official application in early 2024. On paper, the site checks most boxes: the land is zoned for commercial use, it falls within the county’s Targeted Development Area, and the economic upside is…

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Northern Virginia Housing Market Update (June 2025)

Northern Virginia Housing Market Report (June 2025): Is the Seller's Market Over?

Thinking about buying or selling a home in Northern Virginia? Get your custom report here.

The Northern Virginia housing market just flipped the script—and if you're considering moving to Northern Virginia or are already a homeowner here, the latest numbers will surprise you. Our NoVA real estate forecast for 2025 shows rising prices, surging inventory, and a noticeable shift in buyer behavior. For anyone asking, 'is it a good time to buy a house in Northern Virginia?', the answer is getting more complex. We’re breaking down what’s happening county by county so you can understand the real cost of living in Northern Virginia and make the most informed…

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Summer Movie Nights & Country Night at The Farm Brewery at Broad Run: Your Ultimate Northern Virginia Summer Guide

Your Ultimate Northern Virginia Summer Guide

Family-Friendly | Dog-Friendly | Pure Summer Fun

Looking for a unique way to spend your summer evenings in Northern Virginia? The Farm Brewery at Broad Run is hosting a packed lineup of outdoor movie nights, live music, themed events, and one of their most popular parties of the year — Country Night — all on their beautiful six-acre property just minutes from Gainesville and Haymarket.

As someone who’s hosted multiple client appreciation events at The Farm Brewery and enjoyed a few too many Broad Run Blondes (their signature beer), I can’t recommend this place enough. It truly captures the essence of community and good times. In fact, you can read my full personal review of the venue…

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Heritage Hunt: The Best 55+ Active Adult Community in Northern Virginia

Heritage Hunt: The Best 55 Active Adult Community in Northern Virginia

View homes for sale in Heritage Hunt, Gainesville, VA

If you're searching for the top 55 community in Northern Virginia, look no further than Heritage Hunt in Gainesville, VA. Nestled just off Catharpin Road and right off I-66, this gated active adult community blends mountain views, resort-style amenities, and a close-knit neighborhood feel that truly sets it apart. It’s not just a great place to retire—it’s a lifestyle.

And I can say that with confidence—my own family lives here. I've sold homes to multiple family members and close friends in Heritage Hunt, and I know firsthand how special this place really…

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Luxury Arrives in Manassas: Tempo by Hilton Opens December 5, 2025 at Nova Live

Manassas, VA — Prince William County is about to welcome its first true luxury lifestyle hotel, the **Tempo by Hilton in Manassas**..

Tempo by Hilton, part of the sought-after Hilton portfolio, is set to debut this winter at Nova Live—with upscale amenities, a speakeasy, and high-end restaurant. The hotel is being developed by Holladay Properties in partnership with Nova Live, and they’ve just shared more details on their website. You can explore their full announcement here.

“We are so happy to be joining the fantastic campus at NOVA Live this winter. The new Tempo by Hilton hotel is a luxury hotel full of amenities and surprises,” said Austin Haynes, Senior Vice President at…

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Fairfax County Named the Best Place to Raise a Family in America (2025)

Fairfax County Named the Best Place to Raise a Family in America (2025)

View homes for sale in Fairfax County

According to a 2025 national study by SmartAsset, Fairfax County, Virginia is officially the #1 best place for new families in the United States — beating out 829 other counties.

For growing families, this is more than just a headline — it’s confirmation of what locals already know: Fairfax County has it all. From excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods to healthcare access and unbeatable green space, this Northern Virginia powerhouse checks every box for parents building a better life.

Why SmartAsset Ranked Fairfax #1 for Families

SmartAsset evaluated 830…

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