Have you ever decided to take the family on an outing but couldn't think of a fun new experience? Here are 10 places that might be new to you!
 Photo Credit: GoHikeVirginia.com |
215 Afton Depot Ln, Afton, VA 22920 (East Trailhead)
Approximately an hour and 45 minutes drive from our area.
483 Three Notched Mountain Hwy, Afton, VA (West Entrance - starts uphill)
Cost: Free
This 4.6 mile walking and/or biking trail takes you underground through what was previously a mile-long railroad tunnel. There are informational placards along the route for those interested in learning the history of the tunnel.
Things to note:
- There are only 8-10 parking spots available. If these spots are full, you will need to come back another time.
- If you plan to walk through the tunnel, you need a flashlight. There are NO lights inside the tunnel.
- It can get chilly inside the tunnel.
Other Fun Nearby:
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Long Creeks Falls, Blue Ridge Adventure Park, Swan Drive-In Theatre & Diner, Swinging Bridge on Toccoa River, Jacks River Falls
 Image Credit: Cindy Brooks |
3848 Stonewall Jackson Hwy, White Post, VA 22663 (off I-81)
Approximately an hour and 45 minutes drive from our area.
Cost: $9 for 11+; $7 ages 2-10; free for under 2
Walk through 50 life-sized dinosaurs and imagine what life was like in prehistoric times. Take the informational self-tour and discover the magic.
Other Fun Nearby:
Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Belle Grove Plantation, Long Branch Farm, Old Court House Civil War Museum, Warren Rifles Confederate Museum, Washinton's Office Museum, Stonewall Jackson's Headquarters, Woodstock Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Harper's Ferry National Historic Park Battle of Antietam
 Image Credit: Melissa VanGorder |
3) Mount Vernon
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mount Vernon, VA 22121 ($)
Approximately 90 minutes from our area.
George Washington's home is open 365 Days a Year. During your visit, tour the mansion and grounds, including the gardens, Washington's tomb, and a slave memorial. Additionally, walk through the museum to learn George Washington's story. The Distillery and Gristmill are about 2 and a half miles from the estate and is only open April through October.
There is an Education Center on the premises, which is closed for renovations until 2026.
Both a restaurant and food court are available on the grounds.
 Image Credit: Jenny Sites |
101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835
Approximately an hour and 40 minutes drive from our area.
Learn about stalactites and stalagmites as you walk through paths in this cavern. You may want to bring a light jacket, it's much cooler in the caverns. ($34/adults; $32/seniors; $17/age 6-12 & free 5 and under)
There is also a Garden Maze, Gem Sluce, and Ropes Course outside the caverns for an additional fee.
Other fun nearby:
Shenandoah National Park, Car & Carriage Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, Luray Zoo, Luray Singing Tower.
 Image Credit:colonialwilliamsburg.org |
101 Visitor Center Drive, Williamsburg, VA 23185
Approximately 2 hours from our area.
Home to 7 royal governors, this house was started in 1705 and was finally completed in 1722. Learn about how the construction of the house was paid for by tax on importing slaves about it's 61 rooms and amazing gardens.
Other fun nearby:
Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement, Jamestowne
 Image Credit: Jewelsy from Getty Images Signature |
4344 Old Fredericksburg Rd, Hadensville, VA 23067
Approximately an hour and a half drive from our area.
- Tickets must be purchased online: Choose Vehicle (FM radio required) or Lawn seats
- No outside food or drink. Concessions are available for purchase.
- Rain or Shine
- Gates close 20 minutes before showtime. It is suggested that you arrive about an hour before showtime.
Other Fun Nearby:
Grand Caverns, Old Dominion Railroad Excursions
 Image Credit: Jenny Sites |
6477 South Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578
Approximately a 2 and a half hour drive from our area.
Wander down the path alongside Cedar Creek and under the 200 foot bridge. The path ends with an excellent view of Lace Falls. There are additional hiking trails in the area. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes and plan for a number of steps on the walkway.
Other Nearby Fun: Foamhenge
Image Credit: Jenny Sites |
8) Hanover Tavern
13181 Hanover Courthouse Rd, Hanover, VA 23069
This 3-century-old tavern is home to a vast history, a restaurant, and the Barksdale Theatre. Learn how during the Civil War refugees lived in the Tavern while fleeing the Union Army, it was home to Gabriel's Rebellion and visits by celebrated guests like J.E.B. Stuart, Edgar Allen Poe and more.
 Image Credit: Maymount |
9) Maymont
1000 Westover Road, Richmond, VA 23220
Approximately a 90-minute drive from our area.
Take a walk in this beautiful 100-acre historic park. See gardens, arboretum, native wildlife habitats, and goats. While you're there, be sure to visit the Robins Nature Center (only open Fri/Sat/Sun - we suggest purchasing tickets in advance). There is also an audio tour available.
 Image Credit: Ginny Reynolds |
10) Lewis Genter Botanical Garden
1800 Lakeside Ave, Richmond, VA 23228
Approximately an hour's drive from our area.
Gorgeous gardens cover 50 acres. There is a domed conservatory with more than twelve themed gardens. Follow the pathways and find something new with each visit. Check the calendar to discover special events, classes, and more before attending. During the summers there is a waterway area for kids to play.
($20 for adults; $15 for seniors, military & first responders; $10 ages 4-12; 3 and under free - Free admission for all on June 19th, July 4th & September 2, 2024)
