Sterling, Virginia, is a town in Loudoun County that has seen tremendous growth and development in recent years. With its proximity to Washington, D.C., and Dulles International Airport, Sterling is a prime location for both residents and businesses alike. In this article, we will explore some of the key features and attractions of Sterling, Virginia.
History
Sterling has a rich history that dates back to the 1700s. It was named after British Army General William Alexander, who was known as Lord Stirling. The town was originally known as “Gainesville” after one of its early residents, and it was later renamed “Sterling Park” in the 1960s. The town has grown significantly since then, and it is now one of the largest communities in Loudoun County.
Location
Sterling is located in northern Virginia, approximately 30 miles west of Washington, D.C. It is conveniently located near Dulles International Airport, which is one of the largest airports in the country. This makes it an ideal location for both business and leisure travel.
Attractions
Sterling offers a wide variety of attractions for visitors and residents alike. One of the most popular attractions is Claude Moore Park, which is a 357-acre park that offers hiking trails, fishing ponds, and picnic areas. The park also features a nature center and a historic area that showcases life in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Another popular attraction in Sterling is Dulles Town Center, which is a large shopping mall that features over 185 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The mall also features an indoor ice rink and a movie theater. Sterling is also home to the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, which is located adjacent to Dulles International Airport. The museum features a large collection of aircraft and spacecraft, including the Space Shuttle Discovery, the SR-71 Blackbird, and the Enola Gay.
Education
Sterling is home to a number of highly rated public and private schools. The public schools in Sterling are part of the Loudoun County Public School system, which is one of the largest and fastest-growing school systems in Virginia. The system has consistently been ranked among the most effective in the state and the country.
In addition to public schools, Sterling also has several private schools, including Potomac Falls High School, which is a highly regarded college preparatory school.
Business
Sterling is home to a thriving business community that includes companies in a variety of industries. One of the largest employers in the town is Orbital ATK, which is a leading aerospace and defense company. Other major employers in the town include Verizon, Amazon Web Services, and Neustar.
Transportation
Sterling is conveniently located near several major transportation hubs. Dulles International Airport is located just a few miles from the town, and it offers non-stop flights to over 125 destinations around the world. In addition to the airport, Sterling is also served by several major highways, including the Dulles Toll Road, Route 7, and Route 28.
Conclusion
Sterling, Virginia, is a rapidly growing town that offers endless opportunities for residents and visitors. With its rich history, scenic parks, top-rated schools, and thriving business community, it is no wonder that Sterling has become one of the most popular destinations in northern Virginia. Whether you are looking to start a business, raise a family, or simply enjoy the many attractions that the town has to offer, Sterling has something for everyone.
