30 Attractions 2 Hours from Richmond

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A scenic day trip offers much to do in the southern gateway to the Shenandoah Valley.

Make the most of a day trip from Richmond by visiting Rockbridge County, Virginia. More than 30 attractions are located within a mere 30 miles of one another, so it’s easy to pack as much adventure as you’d like into your stay. Flanked by the Blue Ridge Parkway and Allegheny Mountains, Rockbridge County offers heart-pumping adventures, charming towns, farm-fresh cuisine, historic sites, and so much more. Use this south-to-north guide to drive scenic U.S. Route 11, which parallels Interstate 81, to get out of traffic, see spectacular vistas, and be near lots of fun recreational opportunities. <h2>Southern Rockbridge (9 Stops)</h2>One of Virginia’s most historic thoroughfares, Route 11 is also known as “<a href="http://www.wildernessroad-virginia.com/routes/crossroads/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">The Wilderness Road</a>”—with a 200-year history, it’s a worthy attraction in and of itself. Described by Thomas Jefferson as “the most sublime of nature’s work,” <a href="https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-bridge#general_information" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Natural Bridge State Park</a> is a genuine “wow”. Estimated to be at least 500 million years old, this 30-story high natural wonder is simply magnificent. Enjoy 7 miles of trails, including the Children's Discovery Area with Kids in TRACK trail and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. An International Dark Sky Park with self-guided and ranger-led <a href="https://lexingtonvirginia.com/articles/stargazing-nights-at-natural-bridge-state-park" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">stargazing opportunities</a>. Descend 34 stories into the earth at <a href="https://lexingtonvirginia.com/directory/attractions/caverns-at-natural-bridge" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">The Caverns at Natural Bridge</a>, the deepest on the East Coast, to see formations on a 45-minute guided tour. Animals from six continents, including some of the most endangered mammals, reptiles and birds, live together at <a href="http://www.naturalbridgezoo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Natural Bridge Zoo</a>. Walk through the weirdly hilarious <a href="https://www.dinosaurkingdomii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Dinosaur Kingdom II</a>, an artistic display that imagines how the Civil War might have been fought using prehistoric creatures. At the 180-acre <a href="http://www.virginiasafaripark.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Virginia Safari Park</a>, the state’s only drive-through safari adventure, drive through in your own car, feeding hundreds of animals along the way. Stroll through a ten-acre village for encounters with graceful giraffes, bright birds, and other content creatures. <a href="http://greatvalleyfarmbrewery.com/greatvalley" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Great Valley Farm Brewery</a> produces Belgian-style ales using ingredients from its 27-acre farm. Sip IPAs, English ales, German lagers, and other brews. Production will expand to include wine in spring of 2020. <a href="https://halcyondayscider.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Halcyon Days Cider Company</a> produces hard ciders from 50 different apple varieties—many of which are heirloom—grown in an orchard that’s a stunning labyrinth that’s an adventure itself. <a href="http://www.virginiagoldorchard.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Virginia Gold Orchard</a> is a small farm best known for its juicy Asian pears. Blackberries, raspberries, persimmons, chestnuts, jujubes, local honey, and heirloom vegetables are also available. <h2>Lexington (10 Stops)</h2>Several attractions are clustered in close proximity in the charming college town of Lexington, so park your car for free at the Visitor Center and explore on foot. Local “wild farmhouse beers" made from regional ingredients are on tap at the new <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/heliotropebrew/posts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Heliotrope Brewery</a>. Sip your pick alongside creative brick oven pizzas. Climb aboard a horse-drawn tour with <a href="http://www.lexcarriage.com/home.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Lexington Carriage Company</a>, and a team of spunky horses will roll you through town while a friendly guide highlights local history. <a href="https://lexingtonvirginia.com/directory/attractions/oak-grove-cemetery" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Oak Grove Cemetery</a> honors more than 3,000 people including General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, 144 Confederate veterans, two Virginia governors, and Margaret Junkin Preston, “the Civil War Poet Laureate of the South.” Book a <a href="http://ghosttourlexingtonva.com/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Haunting Tales Ghost Tour</a> to delve into the city’s eerie past. <a href="https://www.vmi.edu/museums-and-archives/stonewall-jackson-house/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent;">Jackson House</a><a href="https://www.vmi.edu/museums-and-archives/stonewall-jackson-house/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Museum</a>, the only home ever owned by General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, shares the story of family life on the eve of Civil War. Visit the new Exhibition Center and Museum Shop adjacent to the home, and stroll the garden. <a href="https://rockbridgehistory.org/plan-a-visit/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Campbell House</a>, a historic house built in 1845, displays local furniture and artifacts indoors and lovely gardens outside. <a href="https://www.wlu.edu/lee-chapel-and-museum" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">University Chapel & Museum</a>, which shares the post-Civil War Reconstruction story of Robert E. Lee, counts the statue “Recumbent Lee,” a painting of Robert E. Lee, and the earliest known portrait of George Washington among its assets. <a href="https://www.vmi.edu/museums-and-archives/vmi-museum/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Virginia Military Institute Museum</a> houses 15,000 artifacts, from a Revolutionary War musket to seven Medals of Honor awarded to VMI alumni. The firearms collection includes more than 450 rare and one-of-a-kind pieces. The George C. Marshall Foundation celebrates the man credited with organizing the World War II victory and peace afterwards, among other accomplishments—featuring a world-class research library and public events including the George C. Marshall Legacy Series. <a href="http://www.millershousemuseum.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Miller’s House Museum at Jordan’s Point</a> presents the area’s industrial and transportation history inside a house built in the early 1800s, the last structure remaining at the former hub of Jordan’s Point. <h2>Buena Vista (1 Stop + Side Trip!)</h2>The <a href="https://www.virginia.org/listings/OutdoorsAndSports/ChessieNatureTrail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Chessie Nature Trail</a> connects Lexington and Buena Vista, two delightful Virginia Main Street Communities that straddle I-81. The seven-mile trail is located along the former Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad right of way. Walk or run; the trail isn’t bike-friendly due to gates along the trail. Birds, plants, and animals are abundant—including cows, since the trail passes through some active cattle farms. A short six-mile drive from Lexington on Rt. 60 East, visit the quaint town of <a href="https://bvcity.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Buena Vista</a>, which is nestled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and flanked by the Maury River and George Washington National Forest. Among its attractions is <a href="https://www.buenavistava.org/residents/recreation/glen-maury-park/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Glen Maury Park</a>, a 315-acre playground that boasts wooded hiking/cycling trails, an Olympic-sized pool, campgrounds, disc golf course, and more. Meander the River Walk alongside Maury River. See the Paxton House, a National Historic Place built between 1828 and 1831. Roll onto or hike alongside the Blue Ridge Parkway for spectacular views along what’s billed as “America’s Favorite Drive.” The famed Appalachian Trail is just nine miles outside of town; take the opportunity to step onto the storied path that connects Georgia and Maine. <h2>Northern Rockbridge (10 Stops)</h2><a href="https://vahorsecenter.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Virginia Horse Center</a> is a world-class, 600-acre equestrian event facility with eight barns, 11 show rings, two arenas, a cross-country jumping course, and huge coliseum. Over 80 events take place each year, including horse shows, rodeos, the Rockbridge Regional Fair & Expo, and more. <a href="https://dbbrewingcompany.com/location/outpost/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen</a> produces more than 50 different beers based on European brewing traditions throughout the year. Sip any of the 15 different beers available on tap alongside hearty fare. Tours are offered on Saturday afternoons. <a href="https://roadmapcoffeeworks.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Roadmap CoffeeWorks</a> focuses on sourcing top-quality beans from Latin America and Africa roasted on-site. Enjoy a coffee flight, sip hot or cold coffee drinks, and grab a pastry to enjoy in the Tasting Room, outdoor Coffee Garden, or a quick trip to the Drive-Thru window. <a href="http://www.hullsdrivein.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Hull’s Drive-In Theatre</a>, a local landmark since the 1950s, boasts the area’s largest movie screen. Movies start about 20 minutes after sunset. Watch a double feature sitting in your car while listening via speakers or on radio broadcast 88.1FM. Built in 1756, <a href="https://www.trpchurch.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church</a> sits behind a marker for the <a href="https://www.virginia.org/listings/HistoricSites/SamHoustonWayside/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Sam Houston Birthplace</a>. Born in 1793, Houston served as commander-in-chief of the Texas army, President of Texas, U.S. Senator, and Governor. The <a href="https://www.tantivyfarm.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Lavender Fields at Tantivy Farm</a> is a pleasant stop for all of your senses. Whiff blooming fields (in season), hike to a picturesque waterfall, taste lavender ice cream, shop for lavender-infused soaps, enjoy peaceful quiet, and more. A must-stop for quilters and the people who love them, <a href="http://www.quilteryonline.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">The Quiltery</a> is a supply store packed with patterns, fabrics, notions and more. At <a href="https://www.arec.vaes.vt.edu/arec/shenandoah-valley/about.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Cyrus McCormick Farm</a> enjoy a picturesque setting then tour a barn filled with exhibits about the invention of the grain reaper that kick-started the mechanical revolution in agriculture. <a href="https://rockbridgevineyard.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery</a> produces small-batch wines and craft beers in a range of styles. Try wines in the tasting room or enjoy a glass while gazing out at the 17-acre vineyard and Shenandoah Valley beyond. See the oldest continuously operating commercial grist mill in the Shenandoah Valley at <a href="https://www.wadesmill.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Wade’s Mill</a>, where local grains have been stone-ground in the traditional way since 1750. Stock up on grits, cornmeal, flour and other treats to take home. To quench thirst and hunger along Route 11 there’s nothing like a country store to sample true local flavor while stocking up on road-trip snacks plus goodies to take home. From salty country hams to sweet jams, local honey to fresh-churned butter, Virginia peanuts to Route 11 Potato chips, fresh-made pies to slow-smoked barbecue, there’s much to make mouths water at a country store. Visitors and locals flock to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/gertease" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gerties Country Store</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/laynescountrystore/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Layne’s Country Store</a>, and <a href="https://natural-bridge-general-store.business.site/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(108, 152, 229);">Natty B’s Country Store</a>.

SOUTHERN ROCKBRIDGE

Natural Bridge State Park Natural Bridge State Park, dedicated on September 24, 2016, is home to the 215-foot tall Natural Bridge, a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. The park is more than just the bridge, however. Beautiful forests and rolling meadows showcase the area’s karst terrain. Surrounding mountains and the James River valley display nature’s splendor. The park was named an International Dark Sky Park in 2021, which means stargazing here is top-notch. Check the park calendar for stargazing events. Natural Bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a National Historic Landmark in 1988.

Natural Bridge State Park, dedicated on September 24, 2016, is home to the 215-foot tall Natural Bridge, a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. The park is more than just the bridge, however. Beautiful forests and rolling meadows showcase the area’s karst terrain. Surrounding mountains and the James River valley display nature’s splendor. The park was named an International Dark Sky Park in 2021, which means stargazing here is top-notch. Check the park calendar for stargazing events. Natural Bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a National Historic Landmark in 1988.

Caverns at Natural Bridge Natural Bridge Caverns were discovered just before the turn of the 20th century and opened to the public in 1977. During tours, visitors descend more than 34 stories deep within the Earth to get to the magnificent natural display. While underground, tourists can explore the caverns and view their many special features, including cavern structures such as the Colossal Dome room. This room is an enormous dome-shaped natural feature that was created over thousands of years. Hours vary seasonally.

Natural Bridge Caverns were discovered just before the turn of the 20th century and opened to the public in 1977. During tours, visitors descend more than 34 stories deep within the Earth to get to the magnificent natural display. While underground, tourists can explore the caverns and view their many special features, including cavern structures such as the Colossal Dome room. This room is an enormous dome-shaped natural feature that was created over thousands of years. Hours vary seasonally.

Natural Bridge Zoo The Natural Bridge Zoo Park is and always has been privately owned and has never accepted any sort of federal, state, or local funding. The Natural Bridge Zoo opened its doors to the general public in 1972 and has been growing ever since. The main purpose for Natural Bridge Zoo has always been the propagation and rearing of threatened or endangered species. We try to offer students and the general public the opportunity to learn about the living animals, birds, and reptiles that share the earth with us.

The Natural Bridge Zoo Park is and always has been privately owned and has never accepted any sort of federal, state, or local funding. The Natural Bridge Zoo opened its doors to the general public in 1972 and has been growing ever since. The main purpose for Natural Bridge Zoo has always been the propagation and rearing of threatened or endangered species. We try to offer students and the general public the opportunity to learn about the living animals, birds, and reptiles that share the earth with us.

Dinosaur Kingdom II Created by nationally known attraction builder and theme park designer Mark Cline, whose work has been featured on The Discovery, Travel and Smithsonian Channels as well as on FOX, TBS and BBC Networks. Enter into a time tunnel and discover Stonewall Jackson battling a vicious spinosaurus! Get surrounded by deadly meat eaters! See Abe Lincoln after he’s lassoed a pteranodon chewing up the Gettysburg address! Witness a stegosaurus being milked! If you like prehistoric creatures and civil war history, you’ll flip out over Dinosaur Kingdom II!

Created by nationally known attraction builder and theme park designer Mark Cline, whose work has been featured on The Discovery, Travel and Smithsonian Channels as well as on FOX, TBS and BBC Networks. Enter into a time tunnel and discover Stonewall Jackson battling a vicious spinosaurus! Get surrounded by deadly meat eaters! See Abe Lincoln after he’s lassoed a pteranodon chewing up the Gettysburg address! Witness a stegosaurus being milked! If you like prehistoric creatures and civil war history, you’ll flip out over Dinosaur Kingdom II!

Virginia Safari Park Located in scenic Natural Bridge, Virginia the 180-acre park is home to over 1,000 exotic animals from 6 continents. Drive along 3 miles of road in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. With the Blue Ridge Mountains as your backdrop, animals of all sizes, shapes and colors approach your vehicle in search of a tasty bucket of feed. In addition to driving the Safari Drive-Thru, you can stroll the pathways in the Safari Village where you will find a wide variety of exhibits everyone can enjoy!

Located in scenic Natural Bridge, Virginia the 180-acre park is home to over 1,000 exotic animals from 6 continents. Drive along 3 miles of road in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. With the Blue Ridge Mountains as your backdrop, animals of all sizes, shapes and colors approach your vehicle in search of a tasty bucket of feed. In addition to driving the Safari Drive-Thru, you can stroll the pathways in the Safari Village where you will find a wide variety of exhibits everyone can enjoy!

Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery Great Valley has gained a solid reputation among locals as the “go to” spot for quality beer and beautiful scenery. The Baileys pride themselves on keeping quality as the number one goal in everything they do from the beer to customer service. As one customer put it “this is beer made by people who love beer.”

Great Valley has gained a solid reputation among locals as the “go to” spot for quality beer and beautiful scenery. The Baileys pride themselves on keeping quality as the number one goal in everything they do from the beer to customer service. As one customer put it “this is beer made by people who love beer.”

Halcyon Days Cider Co + Orchard Labyrinth Halcyon Days Cider Company is a hands-on, family-owned and operated small farm and cidery. After being carried away from the area by the hustle and bustle of professional life, we’ve returned to our roots and love of farming. We’ve blended our deep respect of traditional methods with newly refined techniques to create our small batch cider production. As our name suggests, our aim is to return to a simpler time infused with calm and happiness. We hope Halcyon Days Cider Company becomes your oasis in a fast-paced world – a place to relax, recharge, and remember the joy of savoring the moment.

Halcyon Days Cider Company is a hands-on, family-owned and operated small farm and cidery. After being carried away from the area by the hustle and bustle of professional life, we’ve returned to our roots and love of farming. We’ve blended our deep respect of traditional methods with newly refined techniques to create our small batch cider production. As our name suggests, our aim is to return to a simpler time infused with calm and happiness. We hope Halcyon Days Cider Company becomes your oasis in a fast-paced world – a place to relax, recharge, and remember the joy of savoring the moment.

Virginia Gold Orchard Virginia Gold Orchard is a family-run farm in Rockbridge County, VA, selling over 16 varieties of Asian Pears. Visit us this fall for a free tasting!

Virginia Gold Orchard is a family-run farm in Rockbridge County, VA, selling over 16 varieties of Asian Pears. Visit us this fall for a free tasting!

LEXINGTON

Heliotrope Brewery We believe in using locally grown and produced ingredients in our small batch beer and artisan pizza.

We brew small-batch, artisan ales and lagers, utilizing Virginia and North Carolina malt and our own house culture of locally foraged, native Rockbridge County microflora. We aim to produce beers that are uniquely representative of our Shenandoah Valley home. Similarly, our kitchen staff create artisan pizzas and salads from local, farm-fresh produce. Our motto is Pax Soles Fermentum, which loosely translates to “Peace, Sunshine, and Fermentation.” This is referenced not just in our name, but in our logo, which combines the astronomical symbols for the sun and the earth.

Lexington Carriage Company Established in 1985, the Carriage Company's initial purpose was to support the Historic Downtown District of the city by giving narrated tours through the business district, the adjacent college campuses, and a portion of the historic residential area. Still today, we provide daily historic narrated tours of Lexington--weather permitting--from April 1- October 31.

Established in 1985, the Carriage Company's initial purpose was to support the Historic Downtown District of the city by giving narrated tours through the business district, the adjacent college campuses, and a portion of the historic residential area. Still today, we provide daily historic narrated tours of Lexington--weather permitting--from April 1- October 31.

Oak Grove Cemetery General “Stonewall” Jackson, 296 Confederate veterans, two Virginia governors and Margaret Junkin Preston are buried here. Link to the cemetery walking tour map below or pick on up at the Lexington Visitor Center Children's scavenger hunt map also available.

General “Stonewall” Jackson, 296 Confederate veterans, two Virginia governors and Margaret Junkin Preston are buried here. Link to the cemetery walking tour map below or pick on up at the Lexington Visitor Center Children's scavenger hunt map also available.

Haunting Tales Enjoy ghost stories and a candlelight walk that follows in the footsteps of Generals Lee and Jackson. Meets outside of the Lexington Visitor Center. ONLINE TICKETING ONLY. May-October. Check website for Halloween schedule. 13 yrs. and up: $15.00 4-12 yrs.: $10.00 3 and under: free

Enjoy ghost stories and a candlelight walk that follows in the footsteps of Generals Lee and Jackson. Meets outside of the Lexington Visitor Center. ONLINE TICKETING ONLY. May-October. Check website for Halloween schedule.

13 yrs. and up: $15.00

4-12 yrs.: $10.00

3 and under: free

Jackson House Museum Discover the man who became a legend. The Stonewall Jackson House in historic downtown Lexington, Virginia is the only home that the famous Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson ever owned.

Discover the man who became a legend. The Stonewall Jackson House in historic downtown Lexington, Virginia is the only home that the famous Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson ever owned.

University Chapel & Galleries A National Historic Landmark, the Chapel opened in 1868 during Robert E. Lee’s tenure as 11th president of then Washington College. Non-denominational and unconsecrated, the Chapel housed an auditorium, administrative offices, a YMCA, and a library. In 1928, a museum was installed in the basement. Today, that museum includes an exhibition on the history of the university, a changing exhibition gallery, and a museum shop. Visitors also see Lee’s 1870 president’s office and Edward Valentine’s Recumbent Lee statue.

A National Historic Landmark, the Chapel opened in 1868 during Robert E. Lee’s tenure as 11th president of then Washington College. Non-denominational and unconsecrated, the Chapel housed an auditorium, administrative offices, a YMCA, and a library. In 1928, a museum was installed in the basement. Today, that museum includes an exhibition on the history of the university, a changing exhibition gallery, and a museum shop. Visitors also see Lee’s 1870 president’s office and Edward Valentine’s Recumbent Lee statue.

VMI Museum Museum dedicated to the history and heritage of VMI and notable alumni. For a cadet-guided tour of the historic VMI Post, gather in the lobby of the Museum (2nd floor, Memorial Hall) at 12 noon. Tours currently offered Mon-Fri.

Museum dedicated to the history and heritage of VMI and notable alumni. For a cadet-guided tour of the historic VMI Post, gather in the lobby of the Museum (2nd floor, Memorial Hall) at 12 noon. Tours currently offered Mon-Fri.

Miller's House Museum The Miller’s House Museum is dedicated to interpreting the industrial & transportation history of the Lexington area by celebrating the roads, rivers and rails that served a now extinct industrial complex on Jordan’s Point north of the city. The Miller’s House, built in the early 1800s, is the only remaining structure at this once vibrant area developed by John Jordan, who operated a furnace, a forge and the covered toll bridge that spanned the North (Maury) River. Admission is free.

The Miller’s House Museum is dedicated to interpreting the industrial & transportation history of the Lexington area by celebrating the roads, rivers and rails that served a now extinct industrial complex on Jordan’s Point north of the city. The Miller’s House, built in the early 1800s, is the only remaining structure at this once vibrant area developed by John Jordan, who operated a furnace, a forge and the covered toll bridge that spanned the North (Maury) River. Admission is free.

BUENA VISTA (1 Stop + Side Trip!)

Chessie Nature Trail The Chessie Trail runs parallel to the Maury River from East Lexington to Buena Vista for seven miles. A rail-trail, the Chessie’s path is comprised of a portion of the old Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad bed as well as canal towpaths. It is managed by Virginia Military Institute. Locals love to hike and run this trail because it’s easily accessible while also boasting abundant natural beauty, wildlife, and farmsteads.

The Chessie Trail runs parallel to the Maury River from East Lexington to Buena Vista for seven miles. A rail-trail, the Chessie’s path is comprised of a portion of the old Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad bed as well as canal towpaths. It is managed by Virginia Military Institute. Locals love to hike and run this trail because it’s easily accessible while also boasting abundant natural beauty, wildlife, and farmsteads.

Glen Maury Park Glen Maury Park is Buena Vista’s 315-acre playground, providing wooded trails, an Olympic-sized pool, two campgrounds, as well as several pavilions where residents and tourists alike make the natural choice for enjoying life. Glen Maury Park hosts a variety of events each year – music from old time to classical, beach music to bluegrass, and gospel to rock n’roll. Around town you’ll find eateries and service businesses ready to provide what you need… all close at hand.

Glen Maury Park is Buena Vista’s 315-acre playground, providing wooded trails, an Olympic-sized pool, two campgrounds, as well as several pavilions where residents and tourists alike make the natural choice for enjoying life. Glen Maury Park hosts a variety of events each year – music from old time to classical, beach music to bluegrass, and gospel to rock n’roll. Around town you’ll find eateries and service businesses ready to provide what you need… all close at hand.

NORTHERN ROCKBRIDGE

Virginia Horse Center Virginia’s premier equestrian event facility featuring horse shows of all disciplines and for all breeds of horses. Open to the public. Most events free of charge! The public can access hiking and horseback riding trails that lead to the Maury River behind the Horse Center. Visitors may also walk the Concourse inside Anderson Coliseum. The center also has a campground.

Virginia’s premier equestrian event facility featuring horse shows of all disciplines and for all breeds of horses. Open to the public. Most events free of charge!

The public can access hiking and horseback riding trails that lead to the Maury River behind the Horse Center. Visitors may also walk the Concourse inside Anderson Coliseum. The center also has a campground.

Devils Backbone Brewing Company - Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen is located on a beautiful hillside in Lexington. It’s home to a custom-built brewery, bottling canning lines, a taproom with fast-casual dining, and an outdoor beer garden. Reservations preferred, especially for patio domes. Reserve online.

Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen is located on a beautiful hillside in Lexington. It’s home to a custom-built brewery, bottling canning lines, a taproom with fast-casual dining, and an outdoor beer garden. Reservations preferred, especially for patio domes. Reserve online.

Roadmap Coffeeworks Need a break from interstate driving? Watch us roast while enjoying classic espresso drinks, brewed-to-order coffees, locally made bagels and cookies. Learn about coffee from our Self-Guided Tour. Get a brewing lesson from our knowledgeable staff. Or just relax. We have a large lawn with outdoor seating and dogs are welcome! Roadmap CoffeeWorks is the new name for Lexington Coffee Roasters Roastery & Espresso Bar.

Need a break from interstate driving? Watch us roast while enjoying classic espresso drinks, brewed-to-order coffees, locally made bagels and cookies. Learn about coffee from our Self-Guided Tour. Get a brewing lesson from our knowledgeable staff. Or just relax. We have a large lawn with outdoor seating and dogs are welcome! Roadmap CoffeeWorks is the new name for Lexington Coffee Roasters Roastery & Espresso Bar.

Hull's Drive In The nation’s only non-profit, community-owned drive-in theater is celebrating more than 70 years of movies under the stars in Rockbridge County.

The nation’s only non-profit, community-owned drive-in theater is celebrating more than 70 years of movies under the stars in Rockbridge County.

Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church The church was established in 1756, and portions of the original stone meetinghouse are preserved in the current structure. The church is not far from the Colonial-era Great Wagon Road, which tracks Route 11 through Virginia. The church is behind the Sam Houston Wayside

The church was established in 1756, and portions of the original stone meetinghouse are preserved in the current structure. The church is not far from the Colonial-era Great Wagon Road, which tracks Route 11 through Virginia. The church is behind the Sam Houston Wayside

Sam Houston Wayside Sam Houston was born on March 2, 1793, in a cabin in Rockbridge County, Virginia. The monument at the Sam Houston Wayside is a 38,000 pound piece of Texas pink granite commemorating the birthplace of the Texas hero. Directions: From I-81 - Take exit #195. Follow Rt. 11 north for 100 yards. The wayside is on the right. From I-64 - Take exit #55. Follow Rt. 11 north for 6 miles. The wayside is on the right.

Sam Houston was born on March 2, 1793, in a cabin in Rockbridge County, Virginia. The monument at the Sam Houston Wayside is a 38,000 pound piece of Texas pink granite commemorating the birthplace of the Texas hero. Directions: From I-81 - Take exit #195. Follow Rt. 11 north for 100 yards. The wayside is on the right. From I-64 - Take exit #55. Follow Rt. 11 north for 6 miles. The wayside is on the right.

Lavender fields @ Tantivy Farm Our beautiful lavender fields and farm are nestled in the scenic oasis of Fairfield, Virginia. With a breathtaking view of the mountains surrounding our farm, you will soon forget the noise of the outside world. Take a walk throughout the grounds and enjoy the calming sounds of our hidden waterfall, and the soothing music of nature. Visit with our friendly farm animals, stop by our sweet lavender shop, and fall in love with our "Little Piece of Heaven.” Open seasonally.

Our beautiful lavender fields and farm are nestled in the scenic oasis of Fairfield, Virginia. With a breathtaking view of the mountains surrounding our farm, you will soon forget the noise of the outside world. Take a walk throughout the grounds and enjoy the calming sounds of our hidden waterfall, and the soothing music of nature. Visit with our friendly farm animals, stop by our sweet lavender shop, and fall in love with our "Little Piece of Heaven.” Open seasonally.

The Quiltery A quilt shop with a variety of cottons that include reproduction, 30's, and batik fabrics; patterns; tools; and notions used for quilting. Quilting services also available

A quilt shop with a variety of cottons that include reproduction, 30's, and batik fabrics; patterns; tools; and notions used for quilting. Quilting services also available

McCormick Farm Home of Cyrus McCormick, inventor of the mechanical grain reaper. Beautiful grounds, small museum, grist mill, nature trail and picnic area. Groups Welcome, Pets Welcome.

Home of Cyrus McCormick, inventor of the mechanical grain reaper. Beautiful grounds, small museum, grist mill, nature trail and picnic area. Groups Welcome, Pets Welcome.

Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery On-site we have 24 different wines available for sale plus six beers on tap at our new small-batch brewery and tap room. We also have a gift shop and several types of cheeses, crackers, and salami for sale. The cheeses include fresh Chevré, cheddar cheese balls, and local cheese form Mt. View Farm.

On-site we have 24 different wines available for sale plus six beers on tap at our new small-batch brewery and tap room. We also have a gift shop and several types of cheeses, crackers, and salami for sale. The cheeses include fresh Chevré, cheddar cheese balls, and local cheese form Mt. View Farm.

Wade's Mill (formerly the Kennedy-Wade Mill) Founded in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley in 1750, Wade’s Mill is Virginia’s oldest continuously operating commercial grist mill. Today we proudly continue the small and simple Wade’s Mill tradition, with one miller stone-grinding premium grains fresh to order. Our whole grain products are 100% natural, no additives, preservatives or bleaches. Just genuine, stone-ground goodness in every bag. Come to historic Wade’s Mill to create your own modern small and simple, fresh and “free from” stone-ground grains tradition.

Founded in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley in 1750, Wade’s Mill is Virginia’s oldest continuously operating commercial grist mill. Today we proudly continue the small and simple Wade’s Mill tradition, with one miller stone-grinding premium grains fresh to order. Our whole grain products are 100% natural, no additives, preservatives or bleaches. Just genuine, stone-ground goodness in every bag. Come to historic Wade’s Mill to create your own modern small and simple, fresh and “free from” stone-ground grains tradition.

COUNTRY STORES

Gertie's Country Store Located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Gertie's offers you a spot to eat, drink, and check out the talents of local artists and vendors!

Located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Gertie's offers you a spot to eat, drink, and check out the talents of local artists and vendors!

Layne's Country Store We are a country store established in 1954. We offer country hams, side meat, hoop cheese, jams, jelly, preserves, and souvenirs.

We are a country store established in 1954. We offer country hams, side meat, hoop cheese, jams, jelly, preserves, and souvenirs.

Natural Bridge General Store & NattyBCafe Home of Natty B Cafe and family-owned general and grocery store, proudly serving our community. Closed January and February.

Home of Natty B Cafe and family-owned general and grocery store, proudly serving our community. Closed January and February.