Virginia sees a beautiful transformation in the fall as the leaves of the trees change colors. This makes fall a perfect time to travel to Virginia and explore the natural beauty of different destinations. Fall is also, typically considered an offseason, which means that there are fewer crowds in many popular Virginia destinations. This can make it easier to navigate through big cities, see tourist attractions, and have a more relaxed vacation.
Virginia is steeped in history and culture, and the fall season is a great time to explore its many museums, historical sites, and art galleries. The quiet relaxed atmosphere that fall brings is lovely in Virginia. Walking along old cobbled streets in a historic areas covered with colorful leaves where founding fathers once walked, sipping pumpkin spice at a small cafe or cuddling up in a blanket in a cabin overlooking the Virginia Mountains are what fall vacation dreams are made of.
Fall Weather
The weather during the fall season in Virginia is usually mild, making it comfortable for travelers. The temperatures are also, not too hot or too cold, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing. Many travel destinations in Virginia offer off-season prices during the fall. This can save travelers money on flights, hotels, and activities.
During the fall months the temperatures in Virginia ranges from the high 50s to the mid-70s. This especially makes it a perfect time to go for a hike or take a scenic drive. The humidity disappears during the fall, but the kiss of summer sun typically hangs around into October.
Fall Food and Drink
Fall is known for its harvest season, and many destinations in Virginia celebrate this with food and drink festivals. This can provide travelers with an opportunity to try new foods and drinks, and experience local culture. Virginia is especially known for its Southern cuisine, and the fall season brings with it seasonal favorites like pumpkin pie and apple cider. Virginia has a thriving wine industry too, and the fall months are a great time to visit the vineyards and taste some of the region’s wines.
10 Ideas for Fall Virginia Trips
Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, especially during peak leaf season.
Visit Shenandoah National Park and hike along the Appalachian Trail.
Go apple picking and enjoy apple cider, apple butter, and apple pies at Carter Mountain in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Attend a fall festival, such as the Apple Harvest Festival in Winchester or the State Fair of Virginia in Doswell.
Tour historic sites and battlefields, such as Mount Vernon, Monticello, and Williamsburg.
Take a ghost tour of haunted places like the Edgar Allan Poe Museum in Richmond or St. Augustine’s Church in Alexandria.
Visit Virginia’s wineries and breweries for fall-themed tastings.
Take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the autumn views from above.
Go horseback riding through the scenic countryside.
Take a scenic boat tour along the James River or the Chesapeake Bay.
Overall, fall is an excellent time for travel to Virginia due to fewer crowds, pleasant weather, beautiful foliage, and lower prices. Start planning your dream fall getaway to Virginia today!
Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com .
I would describe Chincoteague Island, Virginia as a peaceful and a quiet piece of paradise. The island is know for its wild horses and a slower pace of life. The town itself is very charming and has many unique shops, delicious restaurants and prestine shores. In this blog post I’m going to tell you three reasons you need to book a trip to Chincoteague Island, Virginia for yourself.
What is so unique about Chincoteague Island?
In front of the Island Theater in Chincoteague Island, Va you can see Misty’s hoof prints 🐴
If you’re not familiar with the book Misty by Marguerite Henry (written on the island) or seen the 1961 movie you might not know about Chincoteague Island’s unique tradition. The local fire department on the island is know for its annual pony auction fundraiser where the saltwater cowboys go onto Assateague Island and head up the wild horses that roam there.
Statue of Misty on Main Street in Chincoteague Island, Va
The horses are vet checked and swam across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island where foals from the herd are auctioned off to the highest bidder. The proceeds go to future wild horse care and to the fire department. Afterwards the adult ponies and a buy back foal (one bought to return to the island) are then swam back to the island.
This unique tradition is known worldwide and if you’re a horse enthusiast seeing the wild ponies is quite exhilarating. It is worth the visit to Chincoteague Island in itself to be able to see the untouched beauty of these animals. You can learn more about Pony Pinning ,as well as experience the island’s rich history and local culture on your trip to Chincoteague Island, Virginia.
Where to stay on Chincoteague Island
Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia Pool at Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
There are a lot of choices from traditional hotels and motels to Bed and Breakfasts, rentals and Air B&B when you’re looking at lodging in Chincoteague Island. The newest and one of the most unique choice for lodging in Chincoteague is the Key West Cottages. From the pastel hues and bay-front accommodations this new resort will bring a tropical vibe to your Chincoteague Island, Virginia vacation. During my trip I stayed in one of their Conch Cottages which was very roomy and had a stocked kitchen equipped with a microwave, dishwasher, blender, coffee maker, full refrigerator/freezer and small table.
The views of the Chincoteague Bay from the cottage and the sunset was spectacular.
In addition, this cottage had a sitting area with tv, separate bedroom with a queen bed and wall mounted tv along with a walk- in shower and ample storage space. The views of the Chincoteague Bay from the cottage and the sunset was spectacular. Key West Cottages was close to many local attractions and dinning. The resort has so many fun amenities though you don’t even have to leave.
Grilling up dinner at the Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, VirginiaBring your drink mix and Key West Cottages will supply the blender for your visit to Chincoteague Island, VirginiaFresh tuna, grilled lobster and shrimp all from a local store and cooked on the grill at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, VirginiaWeber grill for use at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, Virginia
One of my favorite things about staying at the Key West Cottages was the ability to grill and dine in. The area outside the cottages had several Weber grills and grilling utensils for use. While staying I was able to go to the local grocery store for fresh fish and to grill for dinner. Furthermore there are several places nearby to launch your boat and charters available too if you want to catch your dinner. The cottage had a nice kitchen area for food preparation.
The kitchen at Key West Cottages even has a blender for your enjoyment The kitchen at Key West Cottage is full stockedImagine sitting and enjoying a tropical drink while lounging in the pool at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Being able to stay in after a day of exploring or enjoying the private beach or pool was an added bonus of this beautiful location. In addition to all the essential plates, cups and silverware needed the cottage even had a blender. Making drinks to enjoy on the Key West Cottage private beach or Bayside cottage porch definitely made this trip feel like a tropical vacation. Key West Cottages thought of everything, including a camping lantern in the room that could be used outside and an umbrella incase it rained.
Things to do and see on Virginia’s Eastern Shore
The wildlife refuge on Virginia’s Eastern Shore has plenty of nature to see and beautiful photo opportunities.
There are so many beautiful overlooks and wildlife areas around Chincoteague Island, Virginia and on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The area it’s truly an outdoor lover’s dream. On the drive north after coming across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel there is a refuge that has a visitor’s center, butterfly trail, a marsh overlook, boat launch and lots of information on the area. I would recommend stopping here. Though the weather was a bit gloomy and it did rain when I was there it was still a pretty area to visit. Plenty of signs are visible after crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel to direct to parks and overlooks.
The ghost fleet at Kiptopeke State Park on Virginia’s Eastern Shore
Another stop to make is at Kiptopeke State Park. This park has some cool views and from the shore one can also, see the ghost fleet of Kiptopeke. The ghost fleet is comprised of old cement ships used during WWII to transport commodities. When no longer needed they were moored off the coast to stand as a jetty. On a clear day more details can be seen, but in the mist they looked quite eerie. Both of these areas are an easy stop on the way up north to Chincoteague.
While you’re visiting Chincoteague Island I would highly suggesting booking a cruise with Daisey Island Cruises. Their cruises are very affordable and offer views of the island you can’t get while on land. They offer Dolphin cruise, wildlife boat cruises and they can also, customize special cruise to fit you or your groups needs. Imagine being able to get up close to the wild horses of Chincoteague and Assateague Island. This certainly is a once and a lifetime experience that you will treasure for years to come.
Dining in Chincoteague
After all the exploring you’re sure to have an appetite and if you love fresh seafood you’re going to especially enjoy many of the restaurants on Chincoteague Island. You’ll find multiple choices that specialize in fresh and local seafood. I would definitely suggest checking out Don’s Seafood while you’re visiting. This hotspot has been serving up local favorites since 1973! The food at Don’s was very flavorful and there were ample choices of fish and seafood on the menu plus other items. The crab legs were especially delicious and the portions were huge.
Peach Melba and French Toast brunch at Bill’s Prime Chincoteague Island, VirginiaCracking crabs at Don’s Seafood Chincoteague Island, VirginiaMade to order donut at the Sandy Pony Chincoteague Island, Virginia
While visiting Chincoteague Island, Virginia I also, enjoyed brunch at a cute little place called Bill’s Prime on Main St and I recommend them. The staff were very friendly and the food was delicious. Tourist and locals alike were standing out the door waiting to be served. If you’re not looking for a sit down and more of a quick bite there are choices for quick service too. I would suggest ordering some delicious made to order donuts while you’re in town from the Sandy Pony.
The lighthouse at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Wild horses, fresh seafood and nature are calling
From the foodie looking to explore new restaurants, the fresh seafood lover or someone that enjoys fishing for your own dinner Chincoteague Island, Virginia has you covered. The location makes it easy to get outdoors too and visitors can find a slower pace of life by walking or bike around breathing in the fresh sea breeze. Chincoteague Island, Virginia and Virginia’s Eastern Shore truly has something for everyone! Book your own stay todaywild horses, fresh seafood and nature are calling.
Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com .
History meets southern hospitality at this Virginia Wine Country Inn. In this blog I’m sharing three of the many reasons you need to book a stay at the Inn at Meander. So grab a glass of wine or cider and come find out what makes this rustic Inn in Locust Dale, Virginia so special.
In April 2023 I was lucky enough to stay at The Inn at Meander which is composed of 12 cottages and guest rooms. During my stay I stayed in the Shearer Suite a tribute to former owners, the Shearer sisters. This room has a beautiful spacious balcony overlooking the patio and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
History of The Inn at Meander
Take a tour of the Inn at Meander
Circa 1766 this tavern and Inn merge the perfect mix of history and hospitality. The Inn at Meander’s history links it to several famous visitor’s including Thomas Jefferson and General Lafayette. The building is full of history and maintains a historic design with creaking hardwood floors, vintage fixtures and period colors.
In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains the property comprises 80 acres. The Inn at Meander, has multiple trails for exploring, gardens, and natural beauty to take in satisfying both the adventurous and those seeking peace and quiet. The trail to the river is especially beautiful and ends with a bench overlooking the water.
In addition, The Inn at Meander has a large game room complete with a pool table. This is one of the most beautiful rooms I have ever seen to play billiards in. It was lovely to have dinner and retire to the fireplace in the parlor, have a couple of beers and then play a few games.
Dining and Hospitality at The Inn at Meander
One of the many perks of staying at the Inn at Meander is being able to have your food brought to your room or having a picnic on the grounds. On my spacious balcony overlooking the garden patio and the beautiful Virginia mountains set the perfect picturesque setting for a memorable dinner. The food was delicious and the views and ambiance unmatched.
Eating dinner on the room’s private balcony at the in at MeanderA sweet treat! Cake and wine in the room at the Inn at Meander.
Imagine drinking chilled sparkling wine from a local vineyard and taking in the sounds of the crickets and sheep mewing from a nearby farm. As you watch the evening grow darker and put all cares aside. Soaking in the moment with the one you love or in your own peaceful solitude. These are the type of memories and moments that the Inn at Meander gives.
Soaking in the views and the moment with Horton Wine at the Inn at Meander
The dinner menu by Chef Jenae Jenkins has a great variety and can be purchased as a 3 Course Dinner option or a la cart. During my stay the first course incuded a spring mix salad: cucumbers, feta, sunflower seeds, and basalmic vinaigrette, the second course salmon with spring greens sauce, basmati rice pilaf and roasted asparagus and for the third course the chocolate lava cake with whipped cream. The portion size of food was very large and everything was very flavorful and delicious.
The dining room of the Crooked Run Tavern is intimate and inviting. I enjoyed the special touch of fresh flowers on the tables. The fireplace made the room look and feel cozy. I couldn’t think of a better way to end a Virginia wine country day than a relaxing meal at the Crooked Run Tavern. Even if you’re not staying at The Inn at Meander and in the area you should make a reservation and check them out.
French toast breakfast the Inn at MeanderToast, sausage, bacon and eggs the Inn at MeanderOmelette breakfast the Inn at MeanderBrunch with a view at the Inn at Meander
Breakfast which is included with your stay was amazing with beautiful mountain views from dining on the patio. The breakfast menu includes so many breakfast favorites including French toast and omelets. Everything is fresh and made to order. On the weekends brunch is served in the Crooked Run Tavern past the normal week breakfast time. Weekend brunch is also, open to the public with reservations.
Proximity to Virginia Wine Country
Nearby The Inn at Meander is a variety of award winning wineries to visit including Barboursville in Orange, Virginia. The ruins of the once magnificent home of James Barbour, Virginia’s 18th governors still stands today to be marveled at. The house was designed by Thomas Jefferson and built in 1814. Sadly it burned on Christmas Day 1884 leaving only ruins.
On top of seeing the ruins at Barboursville its vineyards and winery are beautiful as well. My interest was peaked to this location because I had tried the Barboursville Prosecco at The Inn at Meander during dinner and then decided to visit the Barboursville winery. A charcuterie in the 1812 Library and a glass of Pino Grigio at Barboursville made for a lovely lunch overlooking their vineyard.
The dessert wine Philéo was also a refreshing choice and I enjoyed how light this wine was. You’ll want to pick up a bottle or two of wine to take back with you. The staff at The Inn at Meander can even provide an ice bucket for you to chill your wine in your room to enjoy. In addition to brining your own The Inn at Meander has a large list of local wine for purchase.
Besides it’s close proximity to Virginia wineries and breweries The Inn at Meander is near the famous Skyline Drive in the Shenandoah National Park and Montpelier; home of our 4th President James Madison and, “Father of the Constitution”. The grounds, gardens and museum at Montpelier are worth visiting and a true national treasure.
Original bed of President James Madison Montpellier the home of President James Madison The room where President James Madison worked on the documents for the Constitution Art work at Montpellier of President James and Dolley Madison
There was so much to explore on the ground of Montpellier including a guided tour of the house. If you enjoy your visit you can also, become a member and come back for return tours. Membership includes free daily tours, discounts and special member activities as well. The membership is well worth the price in my opinion and helps preserve President James Madison and Dolley’s home for future generations.
All these choices can be overwhelming, but, The Inn at Meander can assist with your activities during your stay. You can inquire more about these special packages when you make your booking. Visits to local wineries, Montpellier, Inn picnics, dinners and more can be prearranged for you. I would highly recommend having dinner in your room at The Inn at Meander or a picnic on the grounds during your stay.
Why Stay at The Inn at Meander?
The true gems of The Inn at Meander are the staff I met including Chef Jenean, Rhonda, Susan, Karen and Aaron. These individuals go above and beyond their duties and I watched them make everyone have the best experience possible at The Inn at Meander. In addition if you are planning a special event or looking for a venue to get married you should definitely check out Meander. While at The Inn at Meander, I saw both a lovely wedding and a bridal luncheon take place complete with special table settings.
Staying at The Inn at Meander, truly is a relaxing and calming experience. Making memories and having experiences is what this beautiful Inn is about. The Inn at Meander, reminds visitors to be in the moment and enjoy what they are partaking in. The worries of the outside world truly disappear in these #meandermoments if you let them. The history, hospitality and the close proximity to Virginia Wine Country with all it has to offer makes The Inn at Meander a unique and memorable destination.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog on The Inn at Meander. Please send this blog post to anyone you know planning a trip to Virginia Wine Country and be sure to pin it to your vacation board.
If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!
The concept of a resort within a resort at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort is well executed and laid out. The Cavalier Resort consists of 3 hotels within one resort area including the Historic Cavalier Hotel, the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach Oceanfront and the newly opened Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort.
30 Second Review Embassy Suites by Hilton Virginia Beach OceanfrontThe near 100 year old historic and ionic Cavalier Hotel which reopened in 2018 after a $85 million remodel sits across the street from the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach Oceanfront and the newly opened Virginia Beach Embassy Suites Resort Hotel.
The near 100 year old historic and ionic Cavalier Hotel which reopened in 2018 after a $85 million remodel sits across the street from the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach Oceanfront and the newly opened Embassy Suites Resort Hotel. The Cavalier Beach Club is in the middle of the Marriott and Hilton properties which both face the ocean.
Inside the lobby of the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort
The Embassy Suites Resort Hotel was designed as a signature addition to the Cavalier. The resort hotel has 157 hotel suites, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill and TNT (Tacos ‘N Tequila). The hotel rooms boast beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Embassy Suites Resort Hotel has a very modern feel to it, but vibes of big band and hints of a bygone era are woven throughout.
I stayed in room 1084 during my visit to the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort
I stayed in room 1084 during my visit to the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort. The room was a one room king suite and consisted of a bathroom with a walk-in shower, lighted mirror, sofa, small kitchen table, kitchen area with refrigerator, coffeemaker,microwave, flatscreen smart tv, king sized bed and a large balcony with side views of the Atlantic Ocean and beach. The room was comfortable and the wifi was fast enough for remote working.
The outdoor pool at the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort is beautifully landscaped and the pool deck has a fire pit area for lounging.The indoor pool Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort I could imagine is lovely when the doors are open and the sound of the ocean waves can be heard.
Resort status is only given to locations that have elevated amenities and this hotel holds up to its name. During my stay I wasn’t able to partake in any of the resort amenities like the free bike or metal detector rentals as the weather wasn’t for it. The outdoor pool was also, closed due to the season. The indoor pool I could imagine is lovely when the doors are open and the sound of the ocean waves can be heard. The outdoor pool at the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort is beautifully landscaped and the pool deck has a fire pit area for lounging.
Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill inside the Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront
The new hotel carries signature Embassy Suites by Hilton amenities such as an evening reception and made to order breakfast for hotel guests. The evening reception held at the hotel restaurant Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill consisted of light snacks and two drinks per overnight guest. During my stay hummus, pita chips, vegetables, ranch dip, potato chips, various cheese and crackers were served at a set time for overnight guests to enjoy.
History on the Arbuckle restaurant’s name sake found inside the menu at Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill at the Embassy Suites Resort Hotel Virginia Beach
Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill is named after film star Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle. The actor was know to rent out entire floors at the Cavalier in the late 20s and 30s. The history surrounding Arbuckle can be found on the wall outside the restaurant and inside the menu. It is a very interesting read and I enjoyed their nod to the history of the Historic Cavalier.
Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill is named after film star Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle. The actor was know to rent out entire floors at the Cavalier in the late 20s and 30s.
The menu at Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill has everything from delicious appetizers like local oysters, burgers with even a meatless option, salads, seafood and desserts. During the evening reception I tried the oysters Rockefeller and they were delicious. The complimentary made to order breakfast is also, served at Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill. The breakfast items are served buffet style.
Choices at the complimentary breakfast were plentiful at Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill inside the Virginia Beach Embassy Suites Resort Hotel.
The made to order omelet station was my favorite and had so many fresh choices like mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes and jalapeños. There was an area with different types of breakfast meats, breakfast potatoes, French toast, a wide variety of bread items, cereals, fresh fruit juice/soda machine, coffee and a large selection of hot teas. The staff were very welcoming and accommodating. I like that the restaurant was decorated with pictures of Arbuckle’s films and life.
Dining Options Cavalier Resort Area
Dining at Becca Cavalier Resort Virginia Beach
There is no shortage of places to eat within walking distance of the Virginia Beach Embassy Suites Resort Hotel. The Cavalier resort area boasts multiple award winning options. Out of 3,000 restaurants in Virginia Beach on TripAdvisor the top 1-4 are at the resort. Orion’s Roof on the top floor of the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach has some of the most spectacular views of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
Additionally next door at the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach is Tula a health-conscious seaside restaurant and between the two hotels the Cavalier Beach Club. Sitting in Adirondack chairs on the Marriott lawn and mobile ordering from Tula was one of my favorite things in the area during warmer days.
Lobster roll at Orion’s Roof inside the Marriott Resort Virginia BeachKakigori at Orion’s Roof Marriott Resort Virginia BeachSushi at Orion’s Roof Marriott Resort Virginia BeachEnjoying a drink at Orion’s Roof Marriott Resort Virginia BeachEnjoying drinks outside Tula Marriott Resort Virginia BeachViews at Orion’s Roof Marriott Resort Virginia Beach
At the Historic Cavalier across the street one can enjoy Becca, the Hunt Room and the Raleigh Room for drinks and dining. Becca has some of the most amazing oysters I have ever eaten in both flavor and presentation. The Eisenhower Tarnished Truth injected filet is a must try as well at Becca along with the Signature Mile High Cake or the Apple Cobbler Cheesecake. The Hunt Room’s Wedge All the Way and Virginia Smoke and Cure with some Hunt Room Brunswick stew are perfect to eat while enjoying the restaurants large fireplace.
Tarnished Truth Distillery inside the Historic Cavalier HotelTarnished Truth-Injected 8oz “Eisenhower Filet” at Becca, Historic Cavalier HotelWedge All the Way, at the Hunt Room, Historic Cavalier HotelApple Cobbler Cheesecake at Becca, Historic Cavalier HotelTarnished Truth the bourbon of choice at the Cavalier HotelThe signature Mile High cake at Becca is decadentLuau Party menu and food at the Cavalier HotelEnjoying appetizers around the pool at the Historic Cavalier HotelVirginia Smoke and Cure at the Hunt Room, Historic Cavalier HotelChristmas at the Historic Cavalier HotelHalloween poolside with Veuve Clicquot at the Historic Cavalier ResortDrinks on the lawn at the Historic Cavalier ResortThe wood-grilled Oysters Becca, Historic Cavalier HotelThe cocktail menu is ever changing at Becca with often fun historical nods to the hotel in cocktail names.
The Historic Cavalier is a must visit if you’re staying at the Embassy Suites Resort Hotel. The architecture and sheer luxury of the hotel alone are captivating. Make sure to check during your stay to see if the Cavalier Hotel is hosting any special events. I have enjoyed several special events at the Cavalier Hotel including Christmas Tree Lighting, Halloween Party and a Luau which were all very memorable. In addition the Cavalier Hotel is home to its own distillery Tarnished Truth. The distillery is award-winning and creates locally crafted specialty spirits, rye whiskey, bourbon, vodka and gin. Tastings and tours are available Thursday through Sunday from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m.
The Historic Cavalier Hotel and resort area simply is a must visit if you’re planning a trip to Virginia Beach. The new Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort offers great amenities, a beautiful location, outstanding dinning choices and offers a great location as a base for Virginia Beach exploration or staying solely at the resort. The Embassy Suites Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort is a more modern option to the Historic Cavalier Resort and I guarantee you will love it.
Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this article for later on your Pinterest vacation board 🫶🏼 If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.comthank you.
Located in the Shenandoah Valley area of Virginia Luray is both a beautiful and exciting place to visit. With amazing natural attractions like the Luray Caverns, and outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Luray is also, home to a wide variety of history and culture.
There are several historical sites in Luray, like the Luray-Page County Heritage Center and Shenandoah Herring Village offering a glimpse into the town’s past. From the charming small towns that dot the landscape, to the Luray Caverns there is plenty to see and do in this vibrant corner of Virginia.
Luray Caverns
The Luray Caverns are a fantastic natural wonder located in Luray, Virginia.
The Luray Caverns are a natural wonder located in Luray, Virginia. The caverns are one of the most popular show caverns in the eastern United States and feature incredible stalactites and stalagmites, as well as other fascinating rock formations. The caverns were discovered in 1878 and have since been opened to the public, drawing millions of visitors each year.
The caverns are a National Natural Landmark and a great place to explore and learn about the geology of the region. The Luray Caverns are alluring and offer a unique experience that you can’t find anywhere else. The caverns are home to some of the world’s largest cave formations, making them a must-see for any cave or rock enthusiasts.
Hearing the organ inside the Luray Caverns is a memorable experience.
The Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction are also, included with every Luray Caverns ticket. The Car and Carriage Museum is home to 75 Historic vehicles and with the Heritage Village is part of a 3 acre museum complex. It is easy to take a whole day for visiting the Luray Caverns and accompanying museum and grounds.
It is easy to take a whole day for visiting the Luray Caverns and accompanying museum and grounds.
The MimslynInn
Additionally, the town of Luray is filled with unique restaurants, shops, and cultural events. Located in historic downtown Luray, the Mimslyn Inn has been in operation since 1931. The architecture and design of the Mimslyn Inn is stunning and the inn has been featured in magazines like Southern Living and Travel + Leisure. The inn offers a great place to start a Luray visit and can help with planning a variety of local activities.
The charming Mimslyn Inn in Luray, Virginia is a wonderful destination for those seeking a peaceful mountain getaway. This historic inn exudes old-world elegance and southern hospitality. Guests are immediately struck by the stately white-columned exterior overlooking lush gardens and rolling pastures. Inside, the inn is filled with cozy nooks and sitting rooms adorned with antique furnishings, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era.
Each uniquely decorated room features views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains or gardens. Wake up each morning to enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared with fresh local ingredients before embarking on a day of exploring Luray’s attractions.
Just minutes away is the world-famous Luray Caverns, where you can tour the vast subterranean world of stalactites, flowstones, and mirrored pools. The inn is also a short drive from Shenandoah National Park, known for its spectacular hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. Back at the inn, guests can unwind in the evenings on the expansive front porch while sipping Virginia wine and taking in the tranquil mountain scenery. With its historic charm, abundant natural beauty, and focus on gracious hospitality, it’s easy to see why the Mimslyn Inn is a premier destination for those looking to escape the pace of everyday life.
Dining at the Mimslyn Inn
The Mimslyn Inn has a very boutique feel and a unique touch of class. The inn takes visitors back to a bygone era. I personally enjoy dining at the Speakeasy in basement of the Mimslyn Inn. The Speakeasy Restaurant is decorated in prohibition era style while the upstairs Circa 31 restaurant boast style and elegance with formal touches. I have had the pleasure of dining at both restaurants multiple times while visiting Luray, Virginia.
The menu at Circa 31 is always fresh and changes with chef specials and seasonal delights. Brunch is one of my favorite times to eat at Circa 31 and the mimosas are always delicious. The Speakeasy has a delightful menu too and boasts its own unique drink concoctions. The restaurant staff are always very courteous and knowledgeable.
Dinner special Speakeasy Mimslyn InnBrunch at Circa 31 Mimslyn Inn
The Mimslyn Inn offers a variety of activities for guests such as guided tours of the property. The staff at the Mimslyn Inn are incredibly friendly, welcoming and happy to help guests plan their stay. I always appreciate the hospitality and detail to service I receive when visiting. The Mimslyn Inn is truly a hidden treasure of the Shenandoah Valley and a beautiful Virginia hotel.
Outdoor Activities in Luray, Virginia
Located just 90 Minutes from Washington, D.C., Luray, Virginia can easily be a day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The area around Luray, Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley is known for its stunning mountain views, lush forests, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. There are plenty of natural attractions to explore around Luray like the Newmarket Battlefield. The nearby area is also, home to some of the best wineries in Virginia, providing visitors with a chance to sample the local flavors.
Shenandoah Valley is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the country especially in the fall of the year. From the nearby towering peaks of the Shenandoah National Park to the pristine waters of the Luray Caverns, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque corner of the world. Located just 90 Minutes from Washington, D.C., Luray, Virginia can easily be a day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Outdoor activities help make Luray the perfect destination for a getaway. With miles of hiking trails, fishing spots and opportunities for camping and biking, there is something close by Luray for everyone who enjoys being active outdoors. If you are looking for a Virginia staycation, a relaxing weekend away or an adventure-filled trip you will find Luray, Virginia is full of more than just three reasons to visit.
If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.comthank you.
The Virginia Hype Girl: Uncovering the Best of Virginia + Nearby Adventures! 
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