Spring Adventures Near Cascades at Embrey Mill

The air is warming, the days are longer, and spring is finally here!

It’s when everyone at Cascades at Embrey Mill begins thinking about spending more time outdoors.

Sure, you can get out in the community and enjoy our many parks and trails. That’s a given!

And you can always savor a meal with your neighborhood friends on Ground Bistro & Café’s patio.

But sometimes you want something a little farther from home. It’s great, then, that you live in Cascades, where so many wonderful events and opportunities await you moments from your front door.

Here are some fun spring adventures near Cascades at Embrey Mill that we just know you’ll enjoy:

Senior Prom – April 6

Held at North Stafford High School, this Senior Prom is only for 55+ active adults! This free event is brought to you by Stafford County Parks & Recreation and Stafford County Public Schools. You’ll enjoy an afternoon of dancing, hors d’oeuvres, raffles, and an art show during the prom.

This senior prom is a fun way to relive that excitement of your first dance, cut loose, and enjoy celebrating with your neighbors and community. And you’ll be home in time for dinner! RSVP today by calling 540-300-6317.

Pickleball Drop In – April–May

So, you play pickleball with your friends outside Cascades Clubhouse and you think your game is getting really good—now what? Take that talent on the road with drop-in pickleball games at the Rowser Building (Tuesday & Thursday) and Courthouse Community Center (Beginner: Tuesday & Thursday; Intermediate/Advanced: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday).

At these drop-in games, you’ll test your skills against players from across the county. It’s fun, it’s exciting, and it’s only $4 per game to play! More information can be found in the Stafford County Parks & Recreation Catalog. Also note: You can schedule an evaluation to show off your skills and test out of the instructional class requirement.

Historic Garden Week: Fredericksburg – April 23

From April 20–27, Virginia celebrates Historic Garden Week, and on April 23, Historic Garden Week comes to Fredericksburg. Taking place on lower Caroline Street, stately dwellings—some that date back to 1764—showcase how their well-manicured lawns and expertly planted flower beds complement the diverse architecture. Plus, a residential bulb enthusiast has planted and nurtured a picturesque display of spring tulips.

Caroline Street has been home to many local and national historic figures, and Historic Garden Week brings their memories to the forefront. As you walk around viewing beautifully prepared gardens and enjoying the Rappahannock River views, realize you’re also walking in the footsteps of history. And then end the day with a meal at one of Historic Fredericksburg’s delicious dining experiences for the perfect end to a spring adventure.

Shenandoah Caverns – May 1

Meet at the Rowser Building at 8am on May 1, and hop on a charter bus to Shenandoah Caverns. Here, you’ll travel 200 feet below ground and explore this jaw-dropping natural wonder with an experienced tour guide. Stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations are waiting for you!

Lunch isn’t provided on this tour, so don’t forget to bring your own. Or, pick something up at the Caverns Café, where you’ll find an authentic 1957-era soda fountain, burgers, fries, BLTs, and a nice variety of other options. Eat inside or site outside on their patio or at one of the picnic tables, and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. (Again, check the Stafford County Parks & Recreation Catalog for more info.)

Kayaking Adventures – May

Stafford County Parks & Recreation really does list quite a lot of springtime activities planned, including kayaking adventures on many of Stafford’s beautiful waterways. Each Tuesday, explore a different body of water. During the first three weeks, you’ll enjoy kayaking on Abel Lake, Lake Mooney, and Crow’s Nest during the morning. And on the final week of May, it’s an evening adventure on Lake Mooney!

Each expedition is about 3–5 miles roundtrip, and you’ll experience a tour of Stafford from a very unique angle. Search for native wildlife, fish, and plant life as you take in all the wonderful sights. All equipment is provided, but some kayaking experience is recommended. And, you don’t have to do all 4 paddles—just the one(s) you want!

Marine Corps Historic Half – May 19

Get your running shoes laced, your hamstrings stretched, and your endurance ready for the Marine Corps Historic Half on May 19. This popular annual event in Fredericksburg will get you running 13.1 miles on a course through Historic Fredericksburg. Start in Central Park, pace yourself as you pass the quaint shops and restaurants, head up Hospital Hill, and celebrate as you cross the stars-and-stripes finish line. The race begins with an opening ceremony complete with the firing of a vintage musket!

Runners who complete the race in person will receive a fantastic finisher medal and technical participant shirt. If you’re not able to attend in person, you can even link a wearable up and run virtually! Be a part of history that supports the Marines, boosts your health, and unites you with the greater Stafford-area community.

Spring into Adventure at Cascades at Embrey Mill

Spring is a wonderful time to get out and explore, and your home at Cascades is a fantastic home base for a whole season of adventures. This list should help you discover some new things to enjoy in Stafford and surrounding areas, get out in the improving weather, and connect to the community outside your Embrey Mill community. Happy spring!