The complete guide to Quantico, Virginia

Wondering about the weather in Quantico, VA? Or maybe you have questions about the Marine base that’s located there? Together with the United States Marine Corps, Quantico is synonymous with the Federal Bureau of Investigations. That’s because the Marine Corps Base Quantico surrounds the town. Being just about 35 miles from Washington, D.C., and bordered by the Potomac River and Quantico Creek, its strategic location is ideal for training. Here’s a fun fact: The word “quantico” is a derivation of “Pamacocack,” the name of a Doeg village.

Want the inside scoop on what you can find at Quantico? This guide is for you.

This tiny town boasts a population of just 480. It’s located in Prince William County, Virginia. To the south is Richmond and to the east is the Chesapeake Bay.

The weather in the area is generally humid and is considered sub-tropical. Average highs in summer top near 90 degrees Fahrenheit; in winter, the lows can dip down to the upper 20s.

From I-95, take Exit 150A for Quantico/Triangle. Then take State Route 619 East and follow the signs.

The easiest way to reach the area is to use a Washington, D.C.-adjacent airport. Both Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport are good options.

Additionally, both Amtrak and the Virginia Railway Express offer service to Quantico.

Quantico is no stranger to training. In fact, expect there to be a lot of activity happening in and around this town all year long.

Marine Corps Base Quantico employs almost 30,000 military, civilian, and contract workers. That has something to do with the several schools embedded on the installation. At base, you'll find the USMC Combat Development Command, the Officer Candidate School, and The Basic School.

In the first place, it’s not just Marines that call the area home. In fact, there are several other DoD Branches represented at this massive installation. These include the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Army Criminal Investigation Division, and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

There are five gates to access the installation. The Visitor Control Center is in Building 27031X.

Main Gate (Gate 1), Fuller Road: 24/7

Back Gate (Gate 4), near the commissary, open 0500 – 2100, daily

Ponderosa Y (Gate 5), Next to the CVI lot: 24/7

TBS (Gate 6), Onville Road, open 0500 – 2100 daily

Maine Corps University and Q-Town Gate, Monday – Friday, 0600 – 1600  

Both the Federal Bureau of Investigation Academy & Library and the Drug Enforcement Agency conduct training at Quantico. All new FBI field agents complete training at the Basic Field Training Course in Quantico. Agents spend more than 800 hours over 20 weeks receiving training. Speaking of the FBI, did you know the one of the first female agents got her start as a Marine?

As you might expect, you’ll never run out of things to do in and around Quantico. From visiting the USMC’s Museum to finding tucked-away beaches, this region of Virginia offers something for everyone.

It's no surprise that there are plenty of hotels to fit your budget.

Best Western Potomac Mills, (703) 494-4433

Courtyard by Marriott Springfield (703) 924-7200

Home2Suites by Hilton Woodbridge Potomac (571) 427-2400

The best part about the culinary scene in this area is that you’ll find anything and everything. Be sure to check out the local fresh seafood options and the steakhouses, too! If you’re looking for more regional fare, try Chesapeake crab cakes, Rappahannock oysters, and freshly smoked trout. They’re three of Virginia’s most authentic dishes. When it’s time to feed that sweet tooth, definitely find a pie shop and try the cherry pie! 

If you’re thinking about heading south, Newport News and the nearby Hampton Roads area offer plenty of food options to suit various tastes. The National Capital Region offers every kind of cuisine you could want! And the closeness to Maryland means you’ll be able to enjoy Maryland’s rich seafood cuisine as well. Don’t skimp on seeking out an authentic crab shack.

Nearby Washington D.C. offers excellent weekend getaway options. Of course you'll want to check out the National Mall, spend time in the Smithsonian museums and explore all that our nation’s capital has to offer. Closer to home, be sure to explore the various historical sites around the region. Don’t miss out on the Rippon Lodge. This historic house is thought to be the oldest in Prince William County!

Since Quantico, Virginia is such a vibrant and massive installation, there are many places to call home. Dumfries, Fredericksburg, Triangle, and Woodbridge are all excellent options for you and your family. Be sure to speak with the housing office of your respective branch before you sign a lease. Keep in mind that the cost of living in and around Quantico is very high, so it might be advantageous to live in privatized housing.

Virginia offers public, private, and homeschool education options for your children. By the same token, mil-kids who live on base can attend the DoDEA schools on the installation. Quantico has an elementary and a hybrid middle and high school. Be sure you speak with your agency’s school office to make the best choice for you and your family.  

What is Quantico famous for?

Quantico is home to a Marine Corps installation and several other agencies.

Is Quantico primarily Marines or FBI?

You’ll find all branches of the DoD, the FBI, and the DEA at Quantico.

Who gets stationed at Quantico?

Marines are mainly stationed here but the Navy, Air Force, and Army also call it home.

What’s the population of Quantico base?

There are nearly 30,000 service members, contractors, and others at the installation.