We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This helps support what we do and in no way costs you a thing.
If you’re planning a road trip through Virginia, you won’t want to miss the many unique roadside attractions that the state has to offer. From quirky sculptures to historic landmarks, Virginia has something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just looking to break up a long drive, these roadside attractions in Virginia are sure to add some fun and excitement to your trip.
One of the most popular roadside attractions in Virginia is Dinosaur Land. Located in White Post, this park is home to over 50 life-sized dinosaur sculptures. Kids and adults alike will love exploring the park and learning about these prehistoric creatures.
Another must-see attraction is Foamhenge, a full-size replica of Stonehenge made entirely out of foam. This quirky sculpture is located in Natural Bridge and is a great spot for taking photos.
If you’re interested in history, be sure to check out the George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria. This impressive building is dedicated to the life and legacy of George Washington and features exhibits and artifacts related to his life.
Another historic attraction is the U.S. Army Transportation Museum in Fort Eustis, which showcases the history of military transportation from the Revolutionary War to the present day.
Historical Roadside Attractions in Virginia
If you’re a history buff, Virginia is the perfect place to visit. The state is full of historical landmarks and attractions, many of which are located right on the side of the road. Here are just a few of the historical roadside attractions you won’t want to miss.
Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum located in Williamsburg, Virginia. The museum features more than 500 restored or reconstructed buildings, including homes, shops, and public buildings, that date back to the 18th century.
Visitors can take guided tours, watch reenactments, and participate in hands-on activities, such as blacksmithing and candle making. Colonial Williamsburg is a great place to learn about life in colonial America and the events that led up to the American Revolution.
Monticello
Monticello is the former home of Thomas Jefferson, located just outside of Charlottesville, Virginia. The house was built in the late 1700s and is considered one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in the United States.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and gardens, which feature many of Jefferson’s original furnishings and artifacts. Monticello is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in early American history or architecture.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon was the home of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The house is located in Alexandria, Virginia, and was built in the mid-1700s. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and grounds, which include a working farm, a distillery, and a gristmill. Mount Vernon is a great place to learn about the life and times of one of America’s most famous Founding Fathers.
These are just a few of the many historical roadside attractions you can find in Virginia. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something interesting to do, Virginia has something for everyone.
Natural Roadside Attractions in Virginia
If you’re looking for natural beauty, Virginia has plenty of it. From underground caves to soaring mountains, there’s something for everyone.
Natural Bridge State Park
Natural Bridge State Park is home to one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the state. The Natural Bridge is a massive limestone arch that spans 215 feet across Cedar Creek. The bridge is over 30 stories tall and was formed over millions of years of erosion.
Visitors can walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the surrounding forest and creek below. The park also has several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center with exhibits about the bridge’s history and geology.
Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Virginia. The caverns are a series of underground chambers filled with stunning rock formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and columns.
The caverns are also home to the world’s largest musical instrument, the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which uses stalactites to produce music. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caverns and learn about their history and geology.
The park also has a museum, gift shop, and several other attractions, including a garden maze and a vintage car museum.
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is a sprawling wilderness area that covers over 200,000 acres of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park is home to over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the famous Appalachian Trail.
Visitors can also drive along the Skyline Drive, a scenic road that runs the length of the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and over 200 species of birds. There are also several campgrounds and lodges within the park for visitors who want to spend more time exploring its natural beauty.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a break from the city, Virginia’s natural roadside attractions are sure to impress. From underground wonders to mountain vistas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Unique Roadside Attractions in Virginia
If you’re planning a road trip through Virginia, be sure to stop at some of the state’s unique roadside attractions. Here are three must-see attractions that are sure to make your trip memorable.
Foamhenge
Located in Natural Bridge, Foamhenge is a full-scale replica of Stonehenge made entirely out of foam. Created by artist Mark Cline, Foamhenge was originally built as a temporary exhibit but was so popular that it became a permanent attraction. The foam blocks used to create the monument were coated in a layer of fiberglass and painted to look like stone.
Visitors can walk around the monument and take pictures with the foam stones. There are also informational signs that explain the history of Stonehenge and how Foamhenge was created. Admission is free, and the attraction is open year-round.
Dinosaur Land
Dinosaur Land is a quirky amusement park in White Post that features over 50 life-size dinosaur replicas. The park is self-guided, so visitors can take as much time as they need to explore. The dinosaurs are arranged in scenes that depict them in their natural habitats, and there are informational signs that explain the different species.
In addition to the dinosaurs, Dinosaur Land also has a gift shop and a picnic area. Admission is affordable, and the park is open from April through November.
Mark Cline’s Enchanted Castle Studio
Mark Cline’s Enchanted Castle Studio is a roadside attraction in Natural Bridge that showcases the work of artist Mark Cline. Cline is known for his fiberglass sculptures, which range from whimsical to creepy. Visitors can walk through the studio and see the sculptures up close, and there are also sculptures on display outside.
In addition to the studio, there is also a gift shop that sells Cline’s artwork. Admission is free, and the attraction is open year-round.
These unique roadside attractions are just a few of the many interesting places to visit in Virginia. Be sure to add them to your itinerary and experience the quirky side of the state.
Cultural Roadside Attractions in Virginia
If you’re interested in exploring Virginia’s cultural offerings, you’ll find plenty of roadside attractions to suit your taste. Here are a few notable examples:
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit destination for art lovers. This museum features over 50,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world. The collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Henri Matisse. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see.
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum
If you’re a fan of country music, you won’t want to miss the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. This museum is located in Bristol, Virginia, and tells the story of the Bristol Sessions, a series of recording sessions that took place in 1927 and are considered by many to be the birth of country music. The museum features exhibits on the history of country music, as well as interactive displays and live performances.
The American Shakespeare Center
For theater lovers, the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia, is a must-see attraction. This theater company specializes in producing Shakespeare’s plays in a historically accurate setting, using the same techniques and staging that would have been used in Shakespeare’s time. The company also produces other classic plays and offers workshops and educational programs for students and adults.
Whether you’re interested in art, music, or theater, Virginia’s cultural roadside attractions have something to offer. So why not hit the road and explore all that Virginia has to offer?
Roadside Food Attractions in Virginia
When it comes to road trips, finding unique and tasty food options can be just as important as the sights you see along the way. Luckily, Virginia is home to some fantastic roadside food attractions that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Here are three must-visit spots for foodies on a Virginia road trip.
Route 11 Potato Chip Factory
If you’re a fan of potato chips, you won’t want to miss the Route 11 Potato Chip Factory in Mount Jackson. This family-owned business has been making artisanal potato chips since 1992, using locally sourced ingredients and small-batch cooking methods. You can take a tour of the factory to see how the chips are made, and of course, sample some of the delicious flavors like Chesapeake Crab, Mama Zuma’s Revenge, and Dill Pickle.
Chincoteague Oyster Farms
Virginia is known for its fresh seafood, and the Chincoteague Oyster Farms is a great place to try some of the best oysters in the state. Located on the Eastern Shore, this family-owned business has been growing oysters since 1895. You can take a tour of the farm to learn about the oyster-growing process, and then enjoy a raw bar experience where you can shuck your own oysters and pair them with local craft beer or wine.
The Apple House
If you’re craving something sweet or savory, The Apple House in Linden has you covered. This roadside market has been a Virginia institution since 1963, offering everything from fresh-baked pies and doughnuts to sandwiches, soups, and salads. You can also stock up on local produce, jams and jellies, and other Virginia-made products. Be sure to try their famous apple cider doughnuts, which are made fresh daily and coated in cinnamon sugar.
No matter where your road trip takes you in Virginia, be sure to add these roadside food attractions to your itinerary. You’re sure to find some delicious treats and make some great memories along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique and unusual attractions to see in Virginia?
Virginia is home to many unique and unusual roadside attractions. One of the most interesting is Foamhenge, a full-scale replica of Stonehenge made entirely of foam. Another unique attraction is the World’s Oldest Edible Ham, which has been cured since 1902 and is still on display in Smithfield, VA.
If you’re interested in something a little more interactive, check out the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke, which features a collection of vintage trains and automobiles.
What are some of the most popular roadside attractions in Virginia?
Virginia has a number of popular roadside attractions that are worth a visit. The Natural Bridge of Virginia is a stunning natural formation that has been a popular tourist destination for centuries. Luray Caverns is another popular attraction, featuring a series of underground caves and stunning rock formations.
If you’re looking for something a little more quirky, check out the Foamhenge replica or the World’s Largest Apple in Winchester.
What are some lesser-known roadside attractions in Virginia?
If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, Virginia has plenty of lesser-known roadside attractions to explore. The Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge is a unique experience, allowing visitors to drive through a safari park and feed the animals from their car.
The Virginia Museum of the Civil War in New Market is another interesting destination, featuring exhibits on the Civil War and the Battle of New Market. The Virginia Holocaust Museum in Richmond is also worth a visit for its powerful exhibits on the Holocaust and its impact on Virginia.
What are some quirky and offbeat tourist attractions in Virginia?
Virginia is home to a number of quirky and offbeat tourist attractions. The American Celebration on Parade in Shenandoah Caverns is a museum featuring parade floats from various events, including presidential inaugurations and Super Bowls.
The Virginia Museum of the Weird in Natural Bridge is another interesting destination, featuring exhibits on everything from Bigfoot sightings to UFO encounters. For something a little more lighthearted, check out the Virginia Diner in Wakefield, which has been serving up classic Southern cuisine since 1929.
What are some must-see attractions along I-81 in Virginia?
If you’re traveling along I-81 in Virginia, there are a number of must-see attractions to check out. The Natural Bridge of Virginia is just a short drive from the highway and is a stunning natural formation that is not to be missed.
The Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke is another interesting stop, featuring vintage trains and automobiles. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester is also worth a visit for its beautiful gardens and historic exhibits.
What are some interesting places to visit near Richmond, VA?
Richmond, VA is surrounded by a number of interesting destinations. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit for art lovers, featuring a collection of over 33,000 works of art. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is another beautiful destination, featuring gardens, a conservatory, and a butterfly exhibit. If you’re interested in history, check out the Virginia State Capitol or the American Civil War Museum.
