The top cities between Sevierville and Williamsburg are Richmond, Charlottesville, Luray, Blowing Rock, Roanoke, Fredericksburg, Staunton, Mount Airy, Maggie Valley, and Lexington. Richmond is the most popular city on the route. It's 6 hours from Sevierville and less than an hour from Williamsburg.
Nestled in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina, Maggie Valley is a charming town located on the eastern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can explore the park's natural beauty, including wildflowers and black bears, along trails like Deep Creek Trail with its stunning waterfalls. For winter sports enthusiasts, Cataloochee Ski Area offers slopes and trails for skiing and snowboarding. History buffs will enjoy the Wheels Through Time Museum's collection of vintage motorcycles and rare cars.
14% as popular as Richmond
40 minutes off the main route, 16% of way to Williamsburg
Blowing Rock is a charming village in western North Carolina, located on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. It is named after a majestic formation called The Blowing Rock that offers breathtaking views of peaks, forests and the Johns River Gorge. Visitors can explore regional artwork at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum or visit the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which features a preserved country estate with a 1901 mansion.
29% as popular as Richmond
56 minutes off the main route, 33% of way to Williamsburg
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Mt Airy
Mount Airy is a city within Surry County, in the U.S. state of North Carolina. As of the 2020 United States census, the city's population was 10,676, an increase of 288 from the 2010 census count of 10,388. As of 2020, the city was one of the most populous municipalities in Surry County. Wikipedia.
14% as popular as Richmond
33 minutes off the main route, 41% of way to Williamsburg
Roanoke is a city in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia. It’s known for the Roanoke Star, also known as the Mill Mountain Star, a neon landmark overlooking the city from the summit of Mill Mountain. The surrounding park area is home to trails, picnic areas and the Mill Mountain Zoo. Downtown, the Taubman Museum of Art highlights work by American artists like Thomas Eakins and John Singer Sargent.
25% as popular as Richmond
8 minutes off the main route, 50% of way to Williamsburg
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Lexington
Lexington is an independent city in Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, United States. At the 2020 census, the population was 7,320. It is the county seat of Rockbridge County, although the two are separate jurisdictions, and is combined with it for statistical purposes by the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Wikipedia.
12% as popular as Richmond
3 minutes off the main route, 60% of way to Williamsburg
I'll never travel to Williamsburg without this trip planner again
Luray, located in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, is a charming town known for its natural and historical attractions. The famous Luray Caverns offer visitors the chance to explore vast underground cave systems with unique rock formations and the fascinating Great Stalacpipe Organ. The town also boasts the Luray Valley Museum featuring recreated 19th-century buildings and the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum showcasing vintage vehicles.
34% as popular as Richmond
57 minutes off the main route, 63% of way to Williamsburg
Staunton, an independent city in Virginia with a population of around 25,750, is distinct from the surrounding counties. The government offices of Augusta County are located in Verona, adjacent to Staunton. This city is home to Crucible Coffee Roasters, which prioritizes community, connection, and hospitality while serving top-notch coffee. Additionally, visitors can enjoy delightful confections paired with quality coffee at Reunion Bakery on Fridays through Sundays.
14% as popular as Richmond
6 minutes off the main route, 66% of way to Williamsburg
Charlottesville, situated in Virginia, serves as a home to the University of Virginia renowned for its core campus that was designed by Thomas Jefferson. The city also houses Monticello - a mountain-top plantation belonging to Jefferson that features reconstructed slave quarters and a mansion, along with Highland - President James Monroe's former residence retaining numerous original furnishings. Additionally, Charlottesville is an access point to Shenandoah National Park located within the Blue Ridge Mountains region.
70% as popular as Richmond
3 minutes off the main route, 73% of way to Williamsburg
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Fredericksburg
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Fredericksburg, located in Virginia along the Rappahannock River, is a city steeped in colonial and Civil War history. The area is home to the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, which encompasses four battlefields including Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania Court House. Additionally, the park features the Fredericksburg National Cemetery where thousands of Union soldiers are laid to rest.
18% as popular as Richmond
46 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to Williamsburg
Richmond, one of the earliest major cities in America and the capital of Virginia, holds significant historical importance. St. John's Church in Richmond witnessed Patrick Henry’s famous “Give me liberty or give me death” speech that played a key role in starting the Revolutionary War. The Court End neighborhood now houses a museum which was once home to Confederate President Jefferson Davis during the Civil War. This area is renowned for its Federal-style mansions and is an attractive tourist destination for history enthusiasts.
Most popular city on this route
1 minute off the main route, 88% of way to Williamsburg
Best stops along Sevierville to Williamsburg drive
The top stops along the way from Sevierville to Williamsburg (with short detours) are Monticello, Luray Caverns, and Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Other popular stops include Grandfather Mountain, Natural Bridge, and Kings Dominion.
This vast park with 25 miles of trails features a planetarium, a pioneer museum & fishing spots.
We came with a homeschooling group to learn about the wolves and attend a planetarium showing. The rangers in charge of the wolves are extremely knowledgeable and the planetarium was a very interesting show. We got to take a walk around between the two events; the nature surrounding the park is beautiful! Overall, a wonderful day (despite the weather)!
Sara Smith — Google review
Beautiful location with lots of exhibits that allow for exploration opportunities to entertain both young and old visitors. There are some accommodations for physically handicapped individuals but the terrain is a bit challenging and some of the paths difficult to access. It is a very calm atmosphere but parking can be challenging to find and park navigation/map a bit challenging to follow.
Overall it’s a nice, cheap place to stop for a couple hours but I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone that has physical limitations making it difficult to ambulate.
Ashley Stevens — Google review
$7/vehicle (more for buses), planetarium is $6/person, children 5 and under free with parent. Nature programs $3/ person or more for a 2-hour tour. Barge rides also cost pp. Beautiful park on a mountain, excellent trails, nice buildings, zip line seems to be a resident contractor business. Serious discounts for military i.d. Wolf pack is fed around 2 pm. Wolves have a nice large compound. Bobcats are also in a nice large commons for the two brothers. Planetarium is small but seems new, seats are reclined, very comfortable. Do not go late, they open 10 min before show time and lock doors at one minute past! On weekends there are food trucks. Membership probably worth it! That includes free planetarium and Barge, iirc. On approach drive, stay left at the fork or you will wind up in the Eastman company's private rec area.
Heather Preston — Google review
Wonderful wonderful place to visit! I went when I was a child and now my daughter has been able to go. The gift shop is also a win win all proceeds go to help the park and animal's there. It is just a wonderful family place good for a day visit.
Jessica Adkins — Google review
Went here for a Friday hike with my husband, easy to moderate trails. The wolves were feeding which was kind of cool. Free for veterans.
Samantha Nelson — Google review
Nice place with a lot of trails from easy to hard. We had limited time so only did a small walk along the dam and along the lake. There is a nature area with animals such as deer, gray wolves, and a variety of raptors.
Sharon Rumley — Google review
Very nice trails! The building at the entrance of the trails is great for souvenirs and a quick restroom trip. The animal sanctuaries are well kept and great for if you’re bringing kids. The fire tower was fun and looked pretty up to date while still on the rustic side. There are a few places on the trails that provide views. Will definitely be going back!
Wanderlilly Taylor — Google review
Spent the afternoon rock climbing well maintained sport routes and top-rope routes. Then read beside the lake. We made a spontaneous stop here after visiting the Smokies and were blown away by how beautiful and secluded this park felt. The nature center and animal enclosures were incredible. Never thought we'd see such happy looking gray wolves this far south! The animal exhibits were accessible and very cute. We plan to come back tomorrow to climb the rest of the routes and say hey to all the turtles 😊 🐢
Mitchell Skopic — Google review
Absolutely beautiful area. Went on a clear, sunny December morning with kids ages 2, 6, and 8, when it was 32°. The barge and ropes course were winterized but we nearly had the whole place to ourselves and got to see bobcats, foxes, gray wolves, and various raptors all up close. Gave it 4 stars because the website was not clear about which things were closed for the winter and which were available year-round (the welcome / visitor center was closed -- disappointing! but the gift shop was open). The person taking parking entrance fees had run out of park maps. Also, the credit card machine in the gift shop wasn't working well and took 10 minutes till it worked, and we ended up getting overcharged when it finally went through and at that point didn't bother pressing for a refund (aka more time fighting with the credit card machine). (An elderly person was running the gift shop at the time.) We didn't make it to the Planetarium this trip so we only paid the parking entrance fee ($7). Would love to go back in the spring or summer to do the ropes course. Based on our winter experience and a bunch of little reasons above, I would almost give it 3 stars, but I'm trying to give them the benefit of the doubt that everything is run much better during the warmer months.
Emily Smith — Google review
One of the prettiest places I have went and hiked/walked! It cost $7 to get in but there is so much to see and do. The city of Kingsport maintains this park beautifully and provides a great map to help you navigate the grounds.
Miranda White — Google review
Park is in the middle of improvement, lots of trees down around the animal areas and gift shop. Hiking trails were well maintained.
The adventure course is now closed.
Dogs are not allowed in areas with animals.
John W — Google review
Awesome place to hike or bike. The views from the fire tower are beautiful except for looking over the water treatment area.
Animal habitat area is really interesting to work thru.
Gift shop is very small with little to choose from compared to other parks' gift shops I've visited.
Regenia Shepherd — Google review
Great little nature center. Several snake species. Raptors and a very healthy and active wolf pack.
Georgeous bay views. So glad that we checked this place out. Highly recommended.
Devin Bunch — Google review
Great place to visit with the family!! They have a lot of exhibits to enjoy for the small parking/entry fee of $7 for the entire car(not per person) to the park. Additional cost for the barge ride and planetarium, and a small obstacle coarse (I'm not sure if it was open, though).
J Willi — Google review
One of our favorite places for a nature walk. The kids love the barge ride and planetarium.
Rebecca Wilson Real Estate — Google review
We enjoyed your short visit here and glad the dogs could come along. There are restrictions to where dogs are allowed but we wanted to take a short hike on the lakeside trail. It was $7 for entry. We say a few beaver dams.
Thomas Nguyen — Google review
Bays Mountain Park is a great place for hiking, learning about nature and local history, they have wonderful children's educational programs. My wife and I really love hiking there.
Kenneth Sours — Google review
A perfect place to spend the day enjoying the serenity of nature! There are lots of hiking trails and beautiful views.
Chadwick Dunford — Google review
The nature center is great and has tons of cool stuff for children and adults alike! The wildlife exhibits are both indoor and outdoor and include wolves, birds, deer, fish, and a reptile house. My only complaint is that the trail up to the fire tower is confusing to follow at times even with an online map.
David Buckett — Google review
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853 Bays Mountain Park Rd, Kingsport, TN 37660, USA
USA Raft Adventure Resort offers a thrilling experience on the Nolichucky Gorge with expert guides like Walker and Loren. The Lower Nolichucky trip provides a different but fun adventure, with a beautiful primitive campground at Red Banks take out. The friendly and helpful staff, including Dale and Riff, make for an enjoyable stay in accommodations like the Love Shack. While Take Out and One Love were closed during this visit, guests can bring their own supplies for next time.
We love this place. We try to visit 2-3x a year. Bathrooms/showers are clean. The Take out bar and grill was a great additive. We’ve camped in regular tents and the Bell tent.
Ashley Price — Google review
My wife and I were in town for our anniversary and looking for something exciting to do. The spelunking adventure into Worley's Cave was AWESOME! Andy and Miranda (our guides) were knowledgeable, personable, funny, and so patient during our excursion. We were with another group who had smaller kids and they took their time to pause to point out cave-dwelling wildlife, rock formations, and were mindful of what crystalline formations were still growing to look at but not touch! Fantastic experience - highly recommend!
Matt Anthony — Google review
Planned this trip a month ago, long overdue vacation with my wife. We scheduled a 1/2 day rafting trip, for 1:30pm. We both work late nights into early morning so getting up for the 8:30trip would have been a rough indevour. However the wonderful staff worked some magic and got us a group for 10:30am.
Our guide Lauren was amazing, personable, knowledgeable and made our trip memorable and safe.
At night our "Appalachian concierge" Cory was quick to get us what we needed, helpful, friendly and an all around great guy!
We had a couple great evenings at the Take Out Tavern. The food was amazing, the beers ice cold, service was absolutely spot on weather it was to warm our bellies after the wonderful white water or after a few beers.
We stayed in one of the domes, the pictures didn't even do it justice to how luxurious it would be. The bathhouse facility and sauna were clean and maintained daily.
We had a wonderful surprise of live music by the Dirty Dead.
The grounds had this amazing vibe and ambiance, it felt like I came home, it was home, and everyone there was my family.
A completely magical vacation, we can not wait to go again. Already looking at the calendars!
Thank you to everyone, even if I didn't get your name you were intrical to making it the best vacation, what our souls really needed.
Erin Hurlock — Google review
I was charged with criminal trespassing for showing up on their property after getting my property back from my ex-boyfriend at the Nolichucky River Gorge Campground. Avoid going here. They just want your money and do not care about relationships or the truth. I am not a thief.
Cat Walsh — Google review
We stayed at the resort for two nights. Dale, Riff and the rest of the staff that we interacted with were friendly and helpful. We loved staying in the Love Shack. We were there on Monday and Tuesday night, so the Take Out and One Love were not open. We brought our own and will check that the next time we are there.
We went rafting on the Nolichucky Gorge with USA Raft during our stay. Our guide, Walker, was fantastic. He is a real pro on the river. He and trip leader Loren made the trip exciting and fun. We will definitely go again.
We also floated the Lower Nolichucky a couple of times while there. That is a different but fun trip. The Red Banks take out has a nice beach and is a beautiful primative campground.
Benjamin Smith — Google review
Super awesome experience on the Nolichucky with Andy! He was very informative of the surrounding area and history, kept us engaged with silly jokes, and kept us on the edge of our seats! Definitely a trip worth making. Can't wait to come back!
Madison Taylor — Google review
We had an amazing time with USA Raft..A group of us stayed in the Crockett Cabin. The cabin was HUGE..it was great for covid..we all had our separate places and one main area. We spent most of our time outside enjoying the river, fishing, swimming, and tubing…we missed out on the rafting but that’s just an excuse to come back. The communal bathrooms were cleaned and stocked from tampons to hand towels, soap and more…Everything was always fully stocked and clean. We went during SOL Jam…so it was pretty packed. They made everyone comfortable with all things covid. It really was more than I expected in every way. The food was great, the people were great and the music was great. A truly wonderful experience for us all.. We love the Band Sol Driven Train and we hope to come back and see them and USA Raft again next year. Thank you, for sharing your little piece of heaven with us and all your accommodations, recommendations and making us all feel so welcomed.
Kelly Stahulak — Google review
We took a wrong turn coming off the AT trail after hiking 18 miles (the sign with showers and several amnenities got us overly-excited!) and ended up at the USA Rafting Adventure Resort. We were confused and asked for directions and guidance of how to get to Uncle Johnny's Hostel in the main store. They misled us by saying it was far away and telling us there was no real downtown area in Erwin (which we knew was false information) presumably to encourage us to stay there (their cabin rates started at $165). An off-duty staff member offered us a lift (all of 1 mile) for $10 and left us waiting for 20 minutes for him to return and he never showed up. We ended up just hiking the extra mile to Uncle Johnny's. It was confirmed that this facility often mislead and attempt to appeal to the hiking community but doing so by spreading false information is really dishonest and dissapointing.
Virginia Isaharov — Google review
Great location, great people. Horrible management.
The manager, Tiffany, was rude and condescending. When I finally asked her to stop interrupting me, she yelled “OH, YOU’RE CUTE talking to me like that…” And it only got worse from there.
It only takes one person to make the entire establishment look bad. Which is awful considering everyone else was really friendly, accommodating and seemed like very nice people.
The Tiny House was fine as long as you can use the patio and deck area. For $285 I would have expected a few things to be nicer. For example: the cob webs along the AC unit, bleach stained shower curtain covering up a rusty water heater. The tent had 3 of its feet screwed in but one came loose and in the wind was slamming down and quite noisy!
The interior was not made for lounging. The amazing view was blocked by a full sized refrigerator and countertop grille backed by a trellis. The end of the bed and corner of the room were the only places to sit and see the River from inside unless we were standing and as it was too cold to stay outside for long, that’s all we got! During great weather I bet this spot is great but great weather it was not!
We never found the wifi, not in the in-room notebook which would be logical. Finally upon checking out, we saw a plaque in front of the office.
Note to staff:
-When cold weather is coming, don’t make the client have to call for another space heater or extra blankets. Have it in the unit for them.
-Let people speak and if they want $15 worth of tubing passes for the summertime so you might redeem yourselves as a location worth peoples money and time, listen to them instead of manipulating and condescending!
Jenn Criss — Google review
My partner and I have done the Nolichucky half-day trip twice now. This isn't a technical raft, but there are plenty of fun, splashy rapids. The aspect that keeps us coming back--and we'll be back again--is the scenery. For all of the 8.5 mi downriver, you're surrounded by verdant Appalachian mountainsides. A little-used train track traces a line along the south riverbank. Two-thirds of the way through, you are rewarded with a beautiful stretch of rocky cliffs on the north riverbank. Overall, very fun and tough to beat as a tour to this pretty portion of the Appalachians.
Our last guide, Ashley, was outstanding.
Ian Mc Dowell — Google review
First time out with USA Raft and was very impressed. Had a fantastic trip down the Nolichucky with Trip Leader Loren (sp?). He was very knowledgeable about the area, and had amazing control of our raft, such that we actually had to do very little paddling relative to other trips we've been on. His safety briefing was serious but also humorous. We will definitely be going back and requesting Loren as our guide.
Jim Applegate — Google review
We went white water rafting last Friday just before heading back home to FL. Walker was our guide and he was outstanding! Great personality and a Super Guide. We all had an amazing time. This river is now in the top of our favorites. Great white water rapids! The only downside was no pics....y'all need to get those back.
Heather DeBolt — Google review
Had a great time on the rafting trip! Our guide Andy kept us alive and entertained the whole time. Great guy. 10/10 would do again 🫡🫡🫡
Ivan Goubski — Google review
USA Raft is truly an amazing place. I can’t express in words how beautiful the Nolichuky Gorge is. You must float the river and experience it yourself. Danny was our guide, his knowledge on the history of the area, the flora & fauna made the trip that much more special. His paddling skills were amazing, he could certainly pick a line!
The campground at USA Raft is awesome as well, the Take Out Bar has a great beer selection and good bar food. You might get lucky with good music on the small or large stage!
I can’t say enough about this Mountain Gem!
Thanks for a wonderful weekend!
Rhys
Rhys Chittick — Google review
Stayed in one of the airstream camper trailers while hiking the AT. It’s 0.1m off trail and a great spot to stay dry on a rainy night. Activities look very cool, but it’s back to the trail tomorrow.
David L — Google review
Was a great time. My sister had never gone rafting before so we decided on the half day. Had a great time and the scenery was gorgeous. Great for all skill levels and the staff was extremely nice and friendly! Definitely would recommend.
Jennifer Behl — Google review
Rafting was lots of fun, beautiful sights and amazing guides. Cam and Andy were wonderful :)!!
Vikiix — Google review
Our group had a blast on the half day rafting trip through the gorge. It was SO beautiful, and exciting to navigate the class 3 and 4 rapids. Elliott was our guide and he was the master of the water and the dad jokes - very knowledgeable and entertaining. The location is perfect - convenient to the highway etc. We loved the resort too - so much that we came back the following weekend for the Dog Days festival. This will be at the top of our list to refer to our friends. Thank you!
Brooke Melendi — Google review
Wow! Such an amazing experience staying and rafting with my family! We were able to take our 5 and 6 year old kids on the Nolichucky river and Bobby was an incredible guide. Able to give us a taste of adventure without being too scary for the kids. Cannot wait to come back and go again! The Loft cabin was such a perfect and refreshing place to crash after a day of hiking, rafting, and playing in the river. Highly recommend.
Amber Featherston — Google review
Had the best time rafting down the river with USA Rafting! Will was a great guide and got along great with our group! Absolutely loved all the corny jokes he told and how much history he knew of the River. 10/10 would recommend USA rafting! Hope to come back soon!
Brooklyn Newman — Google review
This is my second opportunity to stay here, and I love all the changes (additions) that have been made to include Red Banks, the bar, disc golf and more. Matt Moses and his team are amazing, friendly, and create that “family” vibe. You won’t be disappointed with a stay here, even if you just enjoy the outdoors and sound of the River.
Shawn Schwantes — Google review
Stayed in cabin for the weekend. Clean and comfortable. Bar/grill was awesome so we didn't have to leave the resort for food, staff was extra nice. The music (both live and recorded) was great. The overall atmosphere of the resort was so relaxing and of course beautiful being next to the river. We hope to do it again in the future.
High-banked, quarter-mile race track hosts major auto races, amateur driving schools & daily tours.
The race was fantastic. The track employees were very nice and very helpful. Loved the Easter celebration. Will definitely keep coming back.
Matthew Thompson — Google review
Great place to visit even on the off-season. There was coffee and corvettes morning. Got to meet someone who works for the track. This person gave us an amazing morning by letting us drive on the track and signing our names on the wall. Great day!
Tawnya Kellar-Lewis — Google review
First time here was a great experience loved the The beginning with the music, troops, flying overhead and the fireworks. Very professional racetrack and drivers. Would return but not buying concessions was expecting at least the works on a hotdog for $7 was a plain wiener. Overall beautiful place!
Explore With Who — Google review
We went to the Bristol Dirt Race on Easter. It was our first time. A friend got us tickets and we had a blast. It was awesome for the night race and meet some pretty awesome people while there.
Lotte — Google review
Excellent tour for a really cheap price! We got to go in the owners suite, drive down Thunder Valley and take a lap around the racetrack. Awesome experience!
Shana Durdin — Google review
100% recommend! It's such a fun family and kid oriented place! And you do not have to worry about walking they have people in golf carts riding around that will take you anywhere. Everyone is so extremely helpful and friendly! Absolutely love bristol ❤️
Daisay Bierer — Google review
We have been going to the Bristol night Race for the last 15 years couldn't ask for a better place. Absolutely, love Bristol the track. The town Tennessee altogether is amazing.
wolfe man — Google review
Awesome track for a first-time race goer [me]. Great food, drinks, vendors, souvenirs, and staff. No bad seat in the house. Everything is relatively easy to get to. Bus service leaving leaves a lil to be desired in efficiency. I'm not sure there's a better solution at the moment, but it took 2 hrs just to get back to the vehicle, and a third hour to get on the road. Overall, great experience! Can't wait to return!!
James Puckett — Google review
We went to a race and honestly I didn’t know anything about racing. I did however learn some things and really enjoyed myself. You could see pretty clearly and I feel the seating was better than NFL seating if you enjoy it.
The only thing that was bad was that I didn’t know that you would have a lot of uphill walking to do just to get to this speedway. Even leaving left you with a lot of walking uphill. This wouldn’t be an issue if you are in great physical shape or didn’t have small children, however I did have children and was mid pregnancy. I watched a older gentleman also struggle with his cane as well.
The race itself was great though.
Chelsea Goode — Google review
Really nice track. Easy flow of parking and it’s easy to navigate around the premises. Concessions are pretty fantastic and I was amazed at how clean the bathrooms were. It’s a racetrack. A nice racetrack. Stop by for any event. Recommend it!!!!!!
Matt Anderson — Google review
One of the greatest tracks ever.
Keep the dirt at a dirt track though. There are so many great dirt tracks they could go to!
If you haven't been you need to even if you don't care for racing, just the experience and the atmosphere is worth it!
Hope to see ya next year!!
Darrell Andes — Google review
Speedway in lights is fantastic! We went yearly when my son was little and now that I have a grandson we plan on making it a yearly tradition again. We all thoroughly enjoy the light show and the Christmas village. Santa was a big hit as well!
Mary Collins — Google review
The speedway of lights was great but there are a lot of lights that have sections missing or lights not working. Child had a blast and as always got apple cider from Santa’s village
Kimberly Pierce — Google review
Oh, yeah! It’s Bristol Baby! What a great time with a bunch of people that are all just enjoying a friendly & exciting atmosphere. I expected things to be much pricier; but compared to other sports & live entertainment events the options here were respectably priced. Oh yeah, and they still let you bring your own cooler with food and beverages too!
B.D. Olsen — Google review
I always love coming here for the September race. It is always a party and the people are so very friendly. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. I would recommend staying at the Earhart campgrounds, it's right next to the track and the facilities are well maintained
Shaun Bates — Google review
Nice place to stop on your way through Bristol. Gate was open so we walked around the track at our leisure and got to see where Nascar history has happened. A must if you're a fan or not, check it out!
Michael Catizone (Powerlifter300) — Google review
Nice friendly experience for a truck race. Sadly hardly any vendors open for food, no signs saying who’s open. The persons employed at gates had no clue about the layout of gates ect. We needed up in the wrong place a d walked way down only to find it blocked with a gate dividing the sections. It would have been better if all employees had to walk the entire place twice and they would know real quick which tickets need entrance to which gates.
Gaga Traywick — Google review
Came for the speedway in lights. It was pretty awesome. The lights were beautiful, and being on the track was pretty cool. The Christmas village was nice to have a bite to eat and do some local shopping. It was worth the money. I came on a Monday night it was perfect, barely any traffic.
madeline martinez — Google review
This track knows how to do an event well. You do not need a ticket for the race to enter their "Fan Zone" so you can enjoy all of the events outside the venue. Inside, there are plenty of concessions, so you do not have to wait in lines for an ungodly amount of time. I thought the prices were reasonable for food considering the situation. The seating was great. Because it is such a small track, you can see everything. Overall, I was impressed by the whole experience.
Mark Sandheinrich — Google review
All I can say is Wow! We had a blast at the Food City 500. The facility and its employees run like a well-oiled machine
It was perfect!
Darlene Kemp — Google review
Went for the spring race and loved it! Highly recommend renting the Racing Electronics headsets online before you go. No bad seats in the house!
David Suits — Google review
First time ever at Bristol Motor Speedway...!!! Grew up watching NASCAR.....but we're not here for that today. Got an amazing opportunity to run with the VCTS ( vores compact touring series ). Even though it's a bit chilly this weekend, hope to have a great time watching some racing and pray to God everything goes well!!!
A resident company with many famous alumni produces major plays in repertory at this state theater.
An amazing venue. A beautiful place to see a show. I believe the theatre has been around since 1933 but this was my first time there. Everyone was pleasant and the show that we attended was fantastic. Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
Michael Bruce — Google review
Cast was very well prepared! The barter is beautiful especially during the Christmas season! We saw "It's A Wonderful Life."
Jennifer Nunley — Google review
We went to watch to kill a mockingbird on Sept 3rd and it was incredible! The actors and actresses were amazing and very talented. They captured all the characters’ emotions so well. I will definitely be coming back sometime soon. Thank you so much Barter theatre for such a wonderful experience!
Brooke W — Google review
The Barter Theater is the cultural and artistic gem of southwest Virginia. My wife and I have attended numerous plays and performances here for many years and have never been disappointed. Every show or play we attend always leaves me feeling like it was time well spent and I grew from the experience. Get your tickets and take in one of the plays. You will be glad you did.
Dan Birchfield — Google review
We were wanting to come see this play and almost missed our chance. Luckily we snagged a couple tickets for the last showing of the 9 to 5 musical. Wow, just WOW!!! It started with a laugh, and ended with a standing ovation. What a phenomenal job by the cast and crew! It's been a while since I have laughed out loud so much. The only downside I can think of, there are no more showings!! We look forward to coming back real soon!!
Tom ?The Captain? Thompson — Google review
"By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes." - Shakespeare's Macbeth
This was our first visit to the Barter Theatre, but certainly not our last! The employees were kind and helpful, even leading us right to our seats.
From the moment the actors took the stage, we were captivated. The lights, the dramactics, and the unique seating of the Smith Theater transported us to Scotland .
We appreciated the "lightning plot" the actors shared at the beginning. It made it much easier to follow what was happening. A favorite among our group was the battle scene towards the end.
Barter Theatre shares a resource student study guide that suggests 9th grade and up.
Bravo, Barter Theatre, Bravo!
Foothills Family — Google review
Fantastic little theater. Acting was first rate. Sets were beautiful and seamlessly changed. Don't think there is a bad seat in the place, though they are very close together. We saw Miracle on 34th Street and it was fantastic.
Marlene S — Google review
Enjoyed Miracle on 34th St. It put us all in the holiday mood. Staff was very friendly, helpful, the show was fantastic, the facilities were clean and ticket prices were fair. We sat on the balcony and still felt so incredibly close. ❤️
Mary Day — Google review
So thankful to see plays in person again! Super thankful for the safety precautions and vaccination/negative test requirement. Frankenstein was a 10/10 performance.
Tiff C — Google review
There's not a bad seat in the house. The plays are always top notch. If you ever get a chance to go there, take it. The history is really fascinating. This is a very professional venue.
JEFF MCNEESE — Google review
I saw the production of Footloose. It was an awesome show! I had a wonderful time. The barter is a great place to go. The atmosphere is nice and the attendants are very nice and helpful. If you haven't ever been, you need to go.
Nicole Shrader — Google review
This is one of my favorite places. The plays are amazing every time. I buy a subscription each year so I never miss out on any. Last year I had to see some of the plays twice- they were that good. The Barter is high quality theater at a reasonable price. The actors are truly fantastic and the staff are accommodating and friendly. I highly recommend this treasure in lovely Abingdon.
donnalyn brashear-taylor — Google review
Went for a family visit to Abingdon and was lucky enough to go see Footloose at the Barter. It Was a wonderful experience!! My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and we won the award for who traveled the farthest to be there award. I loved being here and seeing the theatre.
Savannah Carpenter — Google review
The Barter Theater was a wonderful experience. Nestled in the heart of Abingdon within walking distance of the Martha Washington Inn and plenty of amazing restaurants and shops, this theater is in the perfect location. It's a gorgeous, spacious theater that is updated and well-kept, but without losing its small-town charm. We saw the musical Footloose in the Summer of 2023 and it was an experience I won't easily forget. The cast was outstanding. I've seen Broadway performances less captivating! There was nothing small-time about the talent here. All of the singing, dancing, music, lighting, costumes, and stage decor was absolutely mesmerizing. The tickets were incredibly reasonably priced for how well put together this show was. There are ample bathrooms inside the theater, and a concession stand serving small snacks and drinks inside. The only caveat is that you'll have to wait outside for a while before you are seated for the performance and there aren't too many places to sit, but if the weather is nice this gives you time to explore the lovely parks/scenery nearby.
Katelin Johnson — Google review
As You Like It was beyond wonderful, so fun, laughed out loud. I really can’t say enough nor do I have the words to adequately express what it was like!! You should definitely go see for yourself!!
Suzie Zenker — Google review
Barter Theatre and Abington were wonderful. We always enjoy our time in this lovely town attended a play.
Phillip Ardoin — Google review
Excellent. Over the years going to the Barter Theater have never had a bad show or experience. We saw It's A Wonderful Life. Very well done. Fast paced not a dead moment all the actors and actresses we great. The volunteers who work and help out are really great. Highly recommend going especially if you've never been. A true gem of Southwest Virginia.
Tall peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a mile-high swinging bridge, museum & picnic areas.
The park is beautiful, of course, but you might guess that it could be difficult for those who don’t like heights. It is not so bad, though, if you have someone else drive (and don’t look). Just choose the areas of the park that you’d like to see carefully, and you can have a great experience with amazing photos.
Heather Johnson — Google review
While most state parks in NC are free, this one is not. Not only is it not free, it costs $22/person for adults. This seems incredibly expensive to me.
The hours aren't great either. Most of the year they don't open until 9am. In the summer they open at 8am. As someone who likes to start early to beat the crowds, this isn't ideal.
We went on a weekday morning last fall and it was a zoo. The mile high swinging bridge is cool, but also attracts most of the crowds. The crowds die off on most of the other trails.
I'd recommend avoiding the main part of the park and hiking the Profile Trail to Calloway Peak. It starts at a different location and you don't have to pay. It's also much less crowded.
Jacqueline Telljohann — Google review
Trails were fun and exciting, they also accommodate for all skill levels of hiking. The mile high bridge was a thrilling experience and provided fantastic photo opportunities. They hall small animal exhibit with bears, bald eagles, cougars, otters, and elk. Good gift shop as well with interesting souvenirs. Definitely recommend to anyone in North Carolina.
Forloop — Google review
Great adventure to Grandfather Mountain State Park. This park has a suspension bridge between two peaks on the top of the mountain which is a 1 mile up. The views were breathtaking!
Grandfather Mountain also has an animal habitat, with some great informative presentations by the animal handlers.
John Lindstrand — Google review
First time visiting Grandfather Mountain. The sights were breathtaking. You’re given a CD to listen to as your driving, an informative tour. Once you reach the building at the top, there’s 3 floors. A gift shop on the first, a museum on the second, and on the third is a door leading out to the skybridge. If you walk out on the rocks to the ledge, it’s at your own risks so do be careful.
Kayla Hiers — Google review
This is located in the Boone Area in North Carolina ! Such a beautiful place , there is a entrance fee for each person, I believe it’s about 25$ a person . We went on the weekend during the summer time , we had such a great time . There are several places you can visit as you drive up to the bride and the hiking trails . We went into the museum it was pretty awesome , and the small zoo exhibit they have . The bridge was absolutely beautiful there was a crowd of people , very hard to take good pictures bc of the crowds . But over all the view is amazing , breath taken well worth it . Now they have several trails and you do have to sign a small waiver , before starting it. Some trails are risky and dangerous. I would not take children in these trails bc there are some parts of the mountain that are dangerous around certain edges. Definitely have hiker shoes and have water bc the trails are long .
Nancy Rodriguez — Google review
Some absolutely lovely views! The only negative thing about it is that it wasn't cheap to get in. Otherwise, it was incredible and had a very fun hiking trail.
Samuel Uberbacher — Google review
Love this place , there’s some hiking area , I enjoy the scenic drive and the views are breathtaking. Autumn is the best time to go .
Mayelin Rojas — Google review
It is really pretty but it isn't worth it if you are on a budget. It cost 24 dollars per adult and if you go with your family it will be outrageously expensive for what you get to see. But when you get to see it it's absolutely gorgeous, probably one of the best views you can get when it isn't cloudy. They have a lot of trails to walk. The swinging bridge is the most pretty part. It has to be the best attraction in Boone and blowing rock (if your willing to spend a pretty penny of course) but if you are time and money then have at it.
Luke Duncan — Google review
This is a bucket list place! The mile high bridge is so awesome. The views aew amazing.
It was foggy the day I was there.
We were the only people there on a Monday morning around 9am. That was a big plus too!
Jody R — Google review
I absolutely love Grandfather Mountain. I’m regretting life choices since I don’t live closer to it. The weather is beautiful, the visitors center is excellent, and the mile high bridge is amazing!
Conrad Bates — Google review
Great time. Views are amazing. Very windy up there. The dwarf trees show the effects of the wind.
Vic Mueller — Google review
Amazing views and trails. You can make this a hour trip or an all day event. Wear you best hiking shoes and bring some cash for the restaurant and stores
Jeremy Bustillos — Google review
Wow! Breathtaking 360-degree views from the top of Grandfather make the trip (and the cost--$53 for 2 Senior tickets) worth the visit to Boone, NC. Crossing the bridge and climbing the rocks is safe, but one should wear non-skid shoes. Be aware that it can be much colder with the gusty winds at the top of the mountain. Nice gift shop and a full floor dedicated to the history, images and conservation of the mountain. Well done to the non-profit organization that runs the place.
Ken Hulme — Google review
Beautiful place. There is a lot to do here. There is Mile high swinging bridge, Numerous trails, zoo and a museum. We bought the tickets online. There is the curve where forest gump ran, you cannot miss the ‘forest gump ran this curve’ sign. In the zoo we got to touch a snake. Saw bears, cougars and bald eagles. You can easily spend a day here. Kids would enjoy here too.
Apk Ma — Google review
Fantastic experience!
The trails are well marked and offer a good day hike challenge.
The suspension bridge offers amazing views, but McCrae Peak was the main attraction for us. The trail was only 3 miles but was a good challenge and had a really fun stair ladder and rope section to get there.
David Bach — Google review
Went with my family and had a blast. The view is amazing and they have a small discovery center for the kids. Its the perfect place to have a picnic lunch up on the mountain. The fresh smell of the flowers cascades everywhere. Drive with your windows down and enjoy the fresh scent and wonderful breeze.
Cara Rodriguez — Google review
Visiting the NC mountains (near Banner Elk) should include a trip to Grandfather Mountain to walk across the mile high swinging bridge. Breathtaking views of the mountains along with many hiking trails (some trails warn you to be experienced hikers).
There are several animal habitats to view, but on this day they were sleeping. Rangers do give informative talks scheduled throughout the day.
There is a cafe and restrooms along with several exhibits to view. Be sure to look through the view master devices across from the cafe to see awesome 3D photos of the mountain.
I recommend you arrive early to avoid the crowds. Buying tickets on line is recommended because they can turn you away if they are at capacity. Adult tickets range from $22 to $28 and kids start at $10. To get the AAA discount you have to buy on line. Prices vary during peak season.
Cathie Bales — Google review
Went couple of days after Christmas 2023 and it was awesome! They have a Zoo and Bridge, trails so much to do and we spent hours there.
Janet — Google review
Oh, the views!!
Amazing views from what feels like the top of the world. Beautiful nature center and museum. Lots of trails to hike. Beautiful little spots to stop and picnic all the way up the mountain. Plan on spending the whole day ( there is so much to do and see) but, get there here early the bridge and summit get very busy and crowded, not a great way to enjoy it.
SeanHiggins thegoodlifeinc — Google review
Amazing experience. I went there just for exploring overlook places, however, I noticed it worth spending all day with family there. They have picnic area, restrooms, a lot of overlook areas. I went there on a Friday afternoon. There were a lot of people, but I heard during weekends it's way more crowded.
Allan Matias — Google review
It's been a while since I've been in these parts of NC. Grandfather Mountain always impresses. Not much of a view today, but still beautiful. Lots of trails, hiking, history, and fun to be had.
Timothy Macking — Google review
My first visit to Grandfather Mountain left me utterly captivated by its awe-inspiring beauty. The sights were truly breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the North Carolina mountains near Banner Elk that is simply unparalleled.
Upon arrival, we opted to forgo the CD tour, as we didn't have a CD player in the car, and instead decided to read up on Wikipedia later, which added depth to the stunning scenery. The journey to the top was an adventure in itself, culminating in a magnificent building with three floors of exploration. The first floor housed a charming gift shop, while the second floor boasted a fascinating museum. However, it was the third floor that truly stole the show, with a door leading out to the skybridge—a marvel of engineering that offers a thrilling experience.
Venturing onto the rocks to the ledge, while exhilarating, came with its own risks, reminding visitors to tread carefully and respect the mountain's majesty.
A visit to Grandfather Mountain is incomplete without a stroll across the mile-high swinging bridge, providing unparalleled views and a sense of exhilaration that is unmatched. The mountain also offers a myriad of hiking trails, with some reserved for experienced hikers.
The animal habitats, though quiet during my visit, are a testament to the diverse wildlife that calls this mountain home. The informative talks given by the rangers throughout the day provide valuable insights into the local fauna.
The facilities at Grandfather Mountain are top-notch, with a cafe, restrooms, and several exhibits to explore.
I highly recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds, especially during peak season. Purchasing tickets online is a wise choice, as the mountain may reach capacity and turn away visitors. Ticket prices vary, with discounts available for seniors and AAA members.
The views from Grandfather Mountain are truly remarkable, offering a glimpse of nature's grandeur from what feels like the top of the world. The nature center and museum are beautifully curated, offering a deeper understanding of the mountain's rich history and ecosystem.
For those seeking adventure, the mountain offers a multitude of hiking trails and picturesque picnic spots along the way. Plan to spend the whole day exploring, but be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds that can detract from the experience.
In conclusion, Grandfather Mountain is a place of wonder and beauty, with a magical touch that is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a destination that deserves to be savored and explored at leisure, offering a truly unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nehru Enerio — Google review
4.7
(1538)
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4.5
(2227)
North Carolina 28646, USA
I'll never travel to Williamsburg without this trip planner again
Blowing Rock is a charming village in western North Carolina, located on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. It is named after a majestic formation called The Blowing Rock that offers breathtaking views of peaks, forests and the Johns River Gorge. Visitors can explore regional artwork at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum or visit the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which features a preserved country estate with a 1901 mansion.
29% as popular as Richmond
56 minutes off the main route, 33% of way to Williamsburg
Tweetsie Railroad is a family-friendly park that offers train rides, amusement park attractions, live shows, and a petting zoo. Visitors can ride on the chair lift and enjoy various activities such as visiting Santa's gingerbread house or making s'mores at the station. During Christmas time, the train is adorned with magical lights that make for an enchanting experience. One downside to visiting during this time is the limited food options available on site with only one restaurant serving hot dogs or pizza.
We came here for a school field trip for the letter land characters and they did such a fantastic job! Even with all the schools there, it was organized and the lines moved pretty good. We will be back with friends and family!
Kathryn ragno — Google review
Fun way to spend the day. Enjoyed all the rides and park was well maintained. Train was very neat and the shows that we caught were really fun (clogger show & magic show). Our kids loved feeding the animals too! It was only $0.50 for a cone full of food.
Crystal Muir — Google review
Great place to take your kids to get some energy out. You will get yours out to though because it's on the side of a mountain. Not much walking but lots of hills. Rides for adults too but mainly children. My kids love the petting zoo as well. You can bring your on snacks and drinks. We now have season passes.
Elisha Shepherd — Google review
We visited Tweetsie for the first times since childhood. It was fun but overpriced. $60 per adult! Light shows were okay, train ride was fun, stores were nice, and lots of photo opportunities. It was a group activity, otherwise I probably wouldn’t go since I don’t have children. Dress warm for winter rides. Train cars are open air.
Kendra Yang — Google review
This is a cute family park with a lot of fairground type rides. We watched two of the shows and they were good. The train ride was fun. They also have a small animal park. Overall there isn't a ton to do here and it is definitely geared towards families and younger kids. We only stayed for three hours. For two adults we paid $132, which I thought was very steep and not worth the value.
Will Gausman — Google review
Tweetsie is a fantastic place for the little ones. It was like walking into a Hallmark movie. My only complaint about a Tweetsie Christmas was the food choices. Only one restaurant on-site was open with very limited choices on site (hot dog or pizza only). I wish that was known up front. Tweetsie normally has multiple choices related to food. I would have given five stars if not for that. This is a great stop if you can experience it for Christmas. Santa’s gingerbread house and the s’more station was fun. The train was magical with all the lights.
matthew hood — Google review
This is a super fun place and a highly recommended. Both my almost 9 and my twelve-year-old enjoyed it. We stayed for hours and it was wonderful to spend that much time as a family without any whining or bickering. The only reason I took a star off is because after spending $200 to get in, a large soda was gonna cost you $8. They also advertised gem mining and gold panning but there were costs for that as well.
Still, I recommend it. Just bring water bottles and snacks. You can also get your hand stamped if you want to head to the car for a picnic.
Melissa Cole — Google review
We had a fabulous day at Tweetsie Railroad! We arrived around 10:30 to a minimal crowd and bought our tickets at the gate. With no wait times, we were able to return to rides with no problem. The park is super clean and the staff is so friendly! Thank you for a great day Tweetsie!♥️🚂🚃🚃🚃♥️
Susan Grogan — Google review
Affordable family fun!! My whole family had such a wonderful day. The shows are entertaining and fun. Most of the people working there were happy and smiling except for a few but we all have bad days.
Overall I would highly recommend going. Rides had small lines and we didn't have to wait long except for the cheese mine ride. But compared to other theme park wait lines. They were very very quick and we were riding rides in less than 10 minutes at a time!!! 😲
Donalda Feith — Google review
Just created a new Christmas family tradition! Tweetsie Railroad is a great way to cap a winter weekend in Boone! We loved the train and the ride through the lights... but were very surprised and excited by all the other activities to do during our visit! There are fun rides, shops, a carroling show, and plenty of visits to do, like gingerbread men and of course Santa! Fun experience, we look forward to many trips for years to come!
Jason Hall — Google review
What a fun experience for the whole family. We have been here in the past and loved it. The train ride is fun and the lights are beautiful. We loved the smores over the fire, and the blizzard was awesome. The park was clean and all the staff were super friendly. If in the area you too should make this a Christmas tradition.
Dane Whitehead — Google review
That was a fun experience, especially the steam train.. And the staff were friendly and very helpful. We lost our keys and noticed it after leaving, they have already closed down when we arrived but the staff that just got down to the parking lot and saw us searching straight away asked if we we were looking for some keys as someone found them and straight away offered to go back up to get it for us. Saved us the trouble of driving 2 hours back and forth the next day and the stress of not being able to enter the house. And she didn't even accept our small gift and said they were very happy to be of help. Wish we got her name. Anyways, if you're reading this "THANK YOU SO MUCH" again.
Experience wise. Definitely a great visit, especially for kids.
Francis Jr — Google review
Came here in August 2021. Went here as a kid and was excited to return as an adult to bring my kids. It was a great time, but I was disappointed about the train ride and the shootout that they used to do on board. The show now isn't bad but it's not as good as it was 20+ years ago. Still definitely worth the trip and they kids will love it.
Justin Pierce — Google review
We go every year, and we love it every year. This place is a special tradition for us. We like the food available, we like the train ride, and we love the chair lift. From shows and shopping, to rides and arcade.. There's something for everyone. Our kids love the kid rides and feeding all the little goats. Usually Thomas the train is there when we visit, which is an extra bonus for the kids.
Josh Alexander — Google review
We have season passes and we love to go the tweetsie railroad whenever we want to get out of the house I recommend taking a cooler of drinks and snacks because the food and drinks at the tweetsie restaurants are pretty over priced I also recommend getting a season passes if you have time to go a couple times because going like 4 times is a much as the price of the pass. The wait on a weekday is literally like 1 minute and on the weekends maybe 3. The wait for each ride is very short and they have added 4 new rides this year so that a plus. Overall a wonderful amusement park.
Chandler Foust — Google review
Pleasantly surprised. I hadn't been here in years and decided to take my 7 and 5 year old. We LOVED IT!! Tweetsie was perfect. Nostalgic old western/mountain theme park nestled on the side of a mountain. The offers some breath taking views as well. We will visit again soon.
Duane Willis — Google review
Had a great time there for my granddaughter's 5th birthday. Fun rides, great deer park/petting zoo and some fun shows to watch while you take a break.
Joel Rubin — Google review
Nice place with the kids. We went after Christmas and it was raining but the train ride was full despite of the weather (it's covered). The tickets are expensive and the train ride is great. That said the other rides are not amazing and not really worth the price. The food is just snacks and expensive (as expected). The smores are $6 and honestly should be free given the cost of the tickets.
Overall it's good to do it once. If you have some flexibility, check the weather before booking and don't go when it rains. You can also arrive early and get tickets at the door. Would recommend not getting food there if you can avoid it and go to nearby restaurants instead.
Julien Jomier — Google review
This was our first time here and it was a GREAT experience! We bought tickets for the Haunted Ghost Train and enjoyed it. A couple of things you may need to know, the attraction is on a hill and there is lots of incline walking, wear good shoes. The train ride is fun, but to enjoy the actors in the forest, you will need to be on the middle to rear train cars. If you are in the first car or second, you will have a hard time seeing and will have to turn around backwards in your seat and look out the right side FYI. The ticket cost is all inclusive and includes the train, haunted attractions and carnival rides. A great family putting to say the least!
Todd H. — Google review
This was our first time ever coming here to see the Christmas lights, and we are glad we did. We came on a Sunday & got tickets for the train ride at 7:30pm. It was a bit cold and a bit rainy, but thankfully, it did not pour while we were there. A few sprinkles, and we were fine. The train ride itself is about 25 minutes, and you basically ride along singing to your favorite Christmas songs and looking at all the wonderful Christmas light displays! It is a little "town," so once you're done with the train or even before, you can head to their cafe, gift shops, and many photo Op locations. They have lots of light displays to see and a stores section where you buy smores and go to any of their two campfires they have set. They have a few rides more catered to little kids, which is included in your admission tickets. You also get to see Santa! It was not busy at all when we went mainly bc it was on a Sunday night and rainy, but it was a plus for us! I will probably be back in the summertime to see how the experience differs. They do have free parking on site. This was about 2 hrs from me, and if I wouldn't have a long ride home on a Sunday before school started again, we would have def. Stayed longer to enjoy it much more, but overall, it was not a bad experience. It definitely felt like you were transported into a small Christmas hallmark movie village.
Jennifer — Google review
Heads up for the Halloween attractions. They do NOT explicitly state when a place has live actors, and those places are rough. Being 35, I thought I would be fine in the enchanted forest advertised for people 8 and up. Nope. Got halfway through, got to the live actors, and needed to leave. The actors would not let up, even after my SO fell down, and we stated multiple times that we "do not consent" and were asking to just be let through. Maybe it’s my PTSD talking, but going to an attraction advertised as "from your funniest nightmares" and having a panic attack isn't fun. It honestly ruined our night. We sent an email asking them to state, either on signs or on the website, when an attraction has live actors in the future, but they never responded.
The rides were fun, and the train was the highlight. The atmosphere was neat. But it's expensive - $60 per adult. Adequate signs would have saved the night.
Isaac Stross — Google review
My 9 yr old was overwhelmed with excitement! I must say I was too. I recommend a 5pm or 6pm train ride so you can see everything before or after the train ride. There was so much to see!!! We went in December and had a WONDERFUL time!!! Make sure your phone is fully charged because you will take a lot of photos! Tickets are a bit pricey.
Shannon — Google review
This is my first year as a season pass holder and my experience both days of opening weekend were great. Park staff are very friendly and helpful.
Curtis Kularski — Google review
Better than I remember!! We recently visited Tweetsie Railroad with our 3 grandchildren. It was much improved since our visits 20+ years ago with our children.
Everything was clean, staff was impeccably dressed in themed attire, they were helpful and polite. Definitely a great experience for our family. Kids under 3 were free, so that was very nice.
Definitely a 5 🌟 experience. Will definitely go again and highly recommend!
Simon Shaw — Google review
It was definitely a nostalgia thing for my husband. I had never been and this was our child's first time as well. The train ride was fun but a little underwhelming. I think our ride was cut short by an accident with an actor so don't know if there was supposed to be more to it but it was not quite as exciting as I thought it would be, even keeping in mind it's for families. The mini train was almost more exciting if a little psychedelic towards the end. Mordecai has...so much back story to his mining operations. The rides were ok; for the little kid rides there was not really any lines so that was pleasant. Arcade had a few machines not working or ate coins and then the ticket eater didn't work so that was a bit of a mess. Overall, hit or miss and point to maybe some infrastructure related investments that might be good. There is nostalgic and then there is old and janky and we're treading a fine line here I think. Especially since it was not inexpensive compared to other things on top of what spent at the arcade, food, and the gift shop.
Jennifer May — Google review
4.6
(4667)
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4.5
(1089)
300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA
Upscale bistro at Shelton Vineyards offering diverse seasonal American fare paired with house wines.
The meals was delicious. The wine very smooth.love this place ,I will come back next time
DeCui Li — Google review
We already enjoy eating here. The food is wonderful and the service is always excellent. Tonight, we were taken care of by Sam, he was friendly and knowledgeable and very attentive to our wants and needs. The food was fabulous but the service… that was superb. Thank you Sam! Good luck in school!!!!
Todd Reece — Google review
Came for anniversary before our tasting. Food was incredible, as was the service. My husband had a pasta special and I had a twist on the Caesar salad with blackened chicken. Everything tasted great! Not a single complaint. We sat outside and the weather was gorgeous. The dessert we got was a pound cake with chocolate sauce and port soaked cherries. It was heavenly. We will definitely be back!
Ashley Rivera — Google review
Had Easter brunch here. Everything tastes so good. The tomato basil soup was the best I've ever had.
Tiffany T — Google review
Solid lunch at Shelton Vineyards. Attended a company function here and would absolutely return. Try the collard green / pulled pork egg rolls or house made pimento cheese.
Uhland Michael — Google review
Very nice restaurant. Staff is very friendly and helpful!!! My server, Adrienne, was amazing!!!! The butternut squash ravioli with pancetta croutons, sage brown butter and apple butter on top of wilted kale was absolutely delicious!!!!!!! The views on the patio are beautiful!
Tracy Berthelson — Google review
Murder Mystery Dinner was a true disappointment.
The food was terrible. I have never been to a restaurant that was this bad. The only thing that was good was the rolls. Don’t Go
Mason Coffey — Google review
Enjoyed a Friday, 12 o’clock lunch on the patio. Very good food, great service, and tranquil ambiance. Flatbread lunch special was really good.
Permanent Detour — Google review
The atmosphere is beautiful, but the service and food was way below par. When we ordered the sampler appetizer, the waitress brought it out missing the Deviled Eggs, so when we pointed that out, the waitress said "oh I knew something didn't look right". My wife then ordered the Teriyaki Chicken sandwich special, thinking it was a chicken breast. Instead the sandwich had deli meat that looked like it was from a grocery store. I ordered the Fried Chicken sandwich, but was served the same Teriyaki sandwich instead. When we asked the waitress, she blamed it on the computer system. Not wanting to wait another :20 minutes for the sandwich, I just ate what I had and it just wasn't good. The waitress did comp a free desert for our troubles, but we paid our $84 bill and wound up leaving and driving to a McDonald's because we were still hungry.
Mark Parker — Google review
Had dinner on Friday evening. Made reservations for the patio area but were unable to be seated there because a car group ‘reserved the entire patio.’ Kim was a great server and we enjoyed the melon crudo, pork ribeye and shrimp! We love it here with the scenic vines and rolling countryside. Delicious wine, too.
Margie Fetscher — Google review
Presentation and flavors were top notch. Spinach was perfect but the chicken in my main dish was dry and they overcooked the beans. Mind you I ate everything because the flavors were very well done.
Gregory Venditto — Google review
Lovely place to have dinner. Pork ribeye was delicious cheese plate appetizer was pleasant crab cakes we're good.
Guy Disbrowe — Google review
The atmosphere is good but the food menu is very limited for vegetarian. Tried mushroom stuffed raviolis, the sauce was watery and taste was pungent.
Ordered nachos but most of it was undercooked. Would not recommend for food.
Anjali Mutha — Google review
We visited Shelton Vineyards on Friday Nov 17. We ate at the restaurant. Amanda was our server. It was an exceptional experience! The ambience was warm and inviting. The food and wine were delicious. The service was superb. Amanda was courteous, pleasant and extremely attentive to our needs. Amanda made sure that we were very satisfied. She went above and beyond to take care of us during our time at the restaurant. We'll definitely be back and would love to have Amanda as our server again.
Dee Skinner — Google review
Cool spot with beautiful old style decor. The service was fantastic!! We had Kim as our server and she did the best job taking care of us!
The charcuterie was too notch, as well as the bread with the butter and jam plate. I think we would have all been happy with that.
We all got a different meal so we could try everything. One filet mignon, one carbonara, one pork loin and one beef tips. I had the filet. It was good. The sides were a bit lacking in flavor but did taste fresh. The pork loin was the winner at the whole table. It had great taste and the accompaniments went well with it. The other two dishes were pretty boring.
The music was great but it ended at 7:30. On Valentine's day! We couldn't believe it. So most of our dinner was quiet. It felt odd. Not sure why it ended that quickly but it was disappointing.
Overall it was a fun experience that gave us the opportunity to dress up and have a good time. Not the best food in the world though.
Julie Stevens — Google review
Had a really nice tour of the winery, a wine sampling and finished it off with an excellent dinner at the grille the food was amazing. Great atmosphere and ambiance. The server we had was very attentive and helpful. Also was able to bring our own bottle of wine we purchased at the winery and had that with dinner which was much more affordable than buying a bottle at the restaurant!
Museum with an extensive collection of Andy Griffith memorabilia plus an audio tour & a gift shop.
We decided to make the trip here and we were not disappointed. Lots to see and read. Touch screen interactive video clips and information is new. We saw , read and heard things we never knew. Beautiful tribute to a beloved actor. His life is well documented. We recommend you plan a day or two and come here. Beautiful town with wonder people.
Jody M. — Google review
It's a nice museum if you're old enough to remember Andy Griffith and most notably his namesake show. We enjoyed our visit a great deal. The building is small but the exhibits were nice and the clothing and other materials from the show put a smile on our face as we remembered a time far far away.
Larry Loveday — Google review
Such a wonderful museum. I visited with my Mother-in-law, Sister-in-law, and a great family friend. All 4 of us love and or grew up watching and still all these years later watch the Andy Griffith show. This museum was cherry on top of our visit to Mt Airy. We definitely recommend everyone who loves the show to visit the museum.
Jessica Smiley-Powell — Google review
Took a day trip to Mount Airy & we just had to visit the Andy Griffith Museum. As children we loved his show so this was a must for my husband and myself.
We made a day of it and went out to eat & enjoyed downtown Mount Airy.
JOSEPHINE LOCAL GUIDE — Google review
My wife gave me a special birthday present by taking me here. I am a huge fan of The Andy Griffith Show and I enjoyed seeing all of the memorabilia and actual props from the show. You will definitely learn a lot of things about Andy Griffith that you maybe have never known. This is a must visit place!!
Martin Silva — Google review
If you love the Andy Griffith Show like I do and if you're ever in Mt. Airy, NC, the city of Mt. Airy and the Andy Griffith Museum is a must place to stop and check out!
The museum is a place both for learning about and celebrating Andy Griffith, who was born in Mount Airy in 1926. Home of the single largest collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to Andy Griffith, the museum features hundreds of items from Andy’s life and his career in theater, film, and music. Highlights of the collection include actual props, wardrobe, and other artifacts from The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock that were donated by Cindi and Andy Griffith, members of the casts and crews, and other individuals and organizations.
A must see if in the area.
Ron Lamberth — Google review
As a lover of Matlock, I found great enjoyment out of the museum. It is a wonderful tribute to the life and career of Andy Griffith, and I enjoyed seeing all of the pieces! My husband's favorite show is the Andy Griffith Show and it was so fun to see him so excited when going through it.
Taylor Long — Google review
I think it was 8 dollars to get In per person which isn't too bad. I expected the museum to be bigger honestly but you did learn quite a bit about his life. Giving it 4 stars because it's kinda confusing on how to get there from the parking lot. Also the sidewalks are slippery even without rain so be careful.
Janice Marfiz — Google review
Loved the museum. Even saw posters of movies Andy starred in that I didn’t know about. Beautiful grounds. Well organized museum. Staff was knowledgeable and helpful. Plenty of parking.
RobertsMom NC — Google review
So many memories and such a great collection. I loved the handwritten notes from Andy with items he donated.
Michelle Gates — Google review
The Andy Griffith Museum in Mount Airy NC is a sweet little museum. This was a great visit with interactive monitors (Which my wife loved) and lots of keepsakes from the cast of the Andy Griffith Show. In addition it has some nice memorabilia from Andy Griffith's singing days and some of his other movies. There's more to see downstairs too. The museum doesn't take that long to visit, unless your wife likes to press every button on the AV displays like mine does, but it's just about right. Then, when you're done, take a visit down on main street for more souvenirs, visit Floyd's Barber Shop, and grab a Barnie Burger at Barney's Cafe. ...oh...oh... loved the coffee at "Page's Books and Coffee Shop". Really flavorful and not bitter. Sweet staff too! I really hope you found this review helpful! 😊
Michael Hagen — Google review
Great experience. It was fun to see all the old show props and learn more about Andy. A little small but fun. My teenage daughters both enjoyed it. The man working there was super friendly and really seemed to enjoy his job. It's nice to see someone who enjoys his job and kind.
Melanie Wylie — Google review
Love this whole area Mt. Airy NC. I have loved Andy Griffith since I was a child and to be in his hometown was amazing. I highly recommend eating lunch at Snappy great food and great service.
Angela Crumm — Google review
I enjoyed this museum. Should have been a little bigger. Great price of about $8 per person. Loved what I saw but the layout could have been a little better. Good walkways for handicapped individuals. Love Andy so I loved seeing this museum devoted to him. Also went to the gas station and the jail. Great experience that I would do again.
Dee Tee — Google review
If you love Andy Griffith and want to see some of his childhood photos and memorabilia from his TV show, movies, and records there are many things on exhibit. Compared to some other museums I've been to, I wouldn't say this is interactive. There's one touch sensitive digital screen but even though it wasn't crowded when we were there, someone was always using it so we never got a chance to. I'd say that it's worth it to see, but a lot could be done to make it better-- Hologram images, clips from his TV show playing showing the actors wearing the clothing that's displayed rather than still photos, an interactive exhibit where people could choose to play songs from his records, a replica of the police station with the jail, etc. so people could sit at the desk, try out Otis's cell.
Bibi Belford — Google review
The Andy Griffith Museum is a small, but extremely well done museum dedicated to the life of Andy Griffith. It includes many artifacts from his childhood through his adult career. Some are more esoteric like a year book from when he was a music/drama teacher in the local high school. There are lots of things from his movies, Matlock, The Andy Griffith show, and his musical career.
It is a relatively small space but one of the better organized and presented displays we have visited. It was under $10 a person when we visited. There was a steady stream of people for a Tuesday afternoon but it wasn’t crowded.
There is a second exhibit area down the stairs in another building (The Surry Arts Council) which focuses more on the town and other characters including the career of Betty Lynn who played Thelma Lou on the show.
Jim Davenport — Google review
Great place to visit if you like an old fashioned place dripping with southern hospitality and it’s just a bonus that Andy Griffith grew up there and modeled it after Mayberry!! I thought everyone was so nice in this town! I wish the rest of America would take a page out of the book of this town. Thank you and I love you ❤️ Mt. Airy
Frank Jason Folde — Google review
It's a small museum but well done and informative about all Andy Griffith and some of the other characters from the show. It's also clean and modern.
Glory Talbott — Google review
Small, cute museum. Took us about 20 mins to complete once we got in (the line took 20 mins). It was a bit underwhelming due to its size, but we did enjoy all the Andy Griffith memorabilia, including his UNC-related items. I learned some things I didn't know about his time at my alma mater. And it was cool seeing the outfits from both The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock.
Jennifer Hollar — Google review
The best site to see in Mt Airy if you are a fan of the show. First of all, don't miss the statue of Andy and Opie out front. Then, take your time as you visit the museum dedicated to the show. Colorful murals as well.
Mabry Mill, a renowned tourist spot located in the south of Roanoke, is a restored gristmill and sawmill showcasing historic exhibits and interpretive demonstrations. The area around Mabry Mill presents an ideal photo opportunity for visitors. In addition to this, tourists can head north from the mill to explore the scenic beauty of Peaks of Otter and Bedford town nearby.
The Greenbrier is a historic and expansive resort located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. The property features traditional accommodations, a variety of restaurants, a luxurious spa, and five golf courses. Designed by renowned interior designer Dorothy Draper and currently maintained by Carleton Varney, the resort boasts vibrant colors and bold patterns throughout its decor.
I had the pleasure of spending a weekend at the Greenbrier recently and I absolutely understand why I have heard about the resort my entire life.
The resort itself is beautiful and the pictures do not do it justice, but the staff is what really makes this place shine. From check-in to check-out, every staff member I encountered was courteous, attentive, helpful, and accommodating. I would swear they are magical - whenever we returned to our room it was already tidied up to perfection with a fresh bucket of ice waiting for us. They truly go above and beyond to ensure every guest has the best experience, and this is also true of the staff in the steakhouse and in the main dining room (Oh, the food! Each bite of every single meal was succulent, rich, and perfect).
My grandfather loved going to the resort every year on his way to the Preakness, and it is easy to see why. Do not miss any opportunity to stay at the Greenbrier resort - I can assure you that I will not, and I will be actively seeking opportunities to stay there again in the future.
CC Mathis — Google review
The Greenbrier has been a constant presence throughout my life. I've attended numerous events here. The local High School, where I graduated, holds its prom here. Most people in the area have worked for the place at one point or another in their lives. The secret underground shelter for the US Congress has been the worst kept secret among locals for as long as I can recall. My mother and father told us stories about when it was constructed. Its revelation in 1997 was no surprise to any of us. I have never desired to stay at the place, I have patronized its bars, restaurants, movie theater, and bowling alley at different times in my life. I happened to shoot a few games of pool with three young women and their younger brother on one such trip before their mother, Kris, rounded them up. They seemed rather surprised that I had no idea who their father was. They told me that he was a famous lawyer who represented 0J Simpson. I must say that the encounter was so memorable that it took me quite a few years to realize just who they were. At the moment, I'm not sure if that adds value to the establishment.
Alexander Sizemore — Google review
I cannot believe that with taxes, a “historical preservation fee”, and a resort fee, we paid over $600 per night to stay at this shabby, dirty resort. The carpet and furniture in our room was covered in stains, to the point we requested slippers to avoid walking on it. Housekeeping only remembered to bring one pair. The coffee cup lids in our room were covered in dust, and had clearly not been attended to for several guests-worth of stays. Cleanliness was a general concern. The fabric hanging over the indoor pool was covered in yellow and black stains. In the locker rooms, the curtains were yellowing and the towels were piled above my head- it had clearly not been cleaned throughout the day. There was no way to wipe down gym equipment before or after use. Please do not expect 5 star service, even with 5 star prices. As I said, housekeeping forgot half our request. There were plenty of bell hops and valet out at arrival, but we completely unpacked our car on our own had to approach someone to drop our key off with. I left feeling completely mystified as to how they were spending the 9% historical preservation fee they apply to every single purchase. The restaurant food was excellent, but more expensive than most Michelin star restaurants I have been to. The buffet breakfast in the main dining room was the best offering. The shopping options are excellent, and my husband very much enjoyed the off-roading experience. If you are used to staying in other hotels and resorts at this price point, I think the Greenbrier will feel like a major disappointment and waste of money.
Amanda George — Google review
Overall we really enjoyed our stay. I expected better food and better rooms for the price. The Forum was our best meal. Our entire group loved their food. I was not impressed with West or the Main Dining Room, considering the price. We definitely have had better experiences on cruises. The grounds are beautiful. The bunker tour was neat.
Lauren Weaver — Google review
While the Greenbriar is overall beautiful and staff was very, very friendly, I have to give a 1 star review because of what I feel is the most important part of the stay: the accommodations.
We stayed in one of their smaller rooms, so maybe they just aren't given the same attention. When we arrived, we immediately found 2 half-melted, half-eaten ice creams in the mini fridge cooler from the prior occupants. The bath tub wouldn't drain after showers and the shower head leaked so we had to call maintenance day 1. The ceiling above the shower was moldy and the carpets in the main area were stained. The chair for the vanity was also stained in several areas. The in-room amenities were slim, but perhaps it's due to the type of room we had. The toilet was low and was of industrial style.
The room was beautifully decorated, staff were wonderful, and we did enjoy ourselves. It was disappointing to see that many of their children's activities were only available at certain times, but I realize this hotel isn't geared toward them.
When calling guest services for assistance and recommendations. They weren't very friendly or helpful, but the rest of the staff was wonderful.
My hope is that this was just a fluke stay and we'll maybe try staying again, so hopefully I'll be able to update my review then.
Krissy Hamlett — Google review
Remember to use Hᴏᴛᴇʟʙoʟʟʏ.ᴄᴏm when booking any stay. They compare countless booking websites and normally will have prices much cheaper than others! You're welcome :)! This resort is one of the highest rated in the area. I've been coming here for a very long time. If you choose this place you for sure won't regret it.
An elegant and inviting hotel with a warm & friendly home feel! Everything was superb! All the staff were helpful, knowledgeable and very welcoming! Beautiful decor and interior spaces. The landscaping is fantastic! Every excursion/ experience we had was memorable! What a hidden gem!
David Milner — Google review
Out of this world old school service and staff. Great food. Definitely an American institution worth experiencing but becoming a little rough and worn around the edges. Slightly disappointed with the maintenance of the building itself. Lots of areas are showing their age and not quite up to the level of luxury and refinement the resort tries to portray.
Trey Stehman — Google review
I have had the pleasure of visiting several times, but this year was not the luxury experience we are used to, The service and food were par at best. Drinks were poorly mixed and not consistent throughout the property. Good Luck finding food if you have any dietary restrictions. I absolutely love the decor but it is time to refresh. Keep the Draper decor, but an old couch is just old! Furniture that was ripping and chairs that needed to be replaced. Before our next visit, I hope some attention is given to the details of the venue and not just the details of the prices.
Kristie Hillenmeyer — Google review
Rooms OK. TV service, not good. Yen seconds for each channel change. Granted you don't co.e here to watch TV, but come on...overall in this facility, I feel service could be better. Our first time here, when we checked in, the girls offered zero information. Keep in mind this place is massive. In Drapers, when you finish eating they never remove the dirty plates from your table. As upscale as this place is, they should know better
Charles Kaprolet — Google review
Had an amazing time once again at the Greenbrier hotel! Now experienced the cottages on the premise and the hotel rooms. Extremely impressed with both! Hotel offers so much ! The Tea Time Entertainment .. wonderful! Singers and pianist so talented ! Love the tea and cookies offered ! Outdoor Pool is beautiful and the shops all around inside and out are fun to visit! Kids club is great! The staff are all professional and courteous across the board! Looking forward to another visit in the future!
Karin Milner — Google review
I have been coming here for a week since I was six months old and this year was a lot different. First, there was an ice and peach shortage. Also, the portion size was ridiculous. We had over 10 people and many of us ordered $70 steaks from the main dining room. They looked like the slices of steak I can buy at ShopRite for $10. The mash potatoes took two spoonfuls and there were three pieces of asparagus. However, the food was very delicious but the portions were very annoying. We left paying over $1,000 and still hungry. During the week we were there, there was business event which changed the vacation. The outdoor pool closed at 3:30 and the bowling alley was closed for them and they weren’t even playing! However, the vacation was still fun. Golfing everyday was a blast and most restaurants were amazing. My favorite was definitely Prime 44 West. The breakfast buffet was also really good I also love the history. I am a big fan of this subject and learning about people like the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Sam Snead, and more. This year, we stayed with my family in the Greenbrier Suite and my bed was so comfortable. Overall, the vacation was different but I still had a blast.
John Connell — Google review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stepping into the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, WV, feels like stepping back in time to an era of opulence rarely experienced today. This iconic resort, boasting nearly 800 rooms, exudes grandeur from every corner.
Although I only had the pleasure of enjoying breakfast in the magnificent grand dining room, I was instantly captivated by the sheer opulence of the hotel's decor. The lavishness of the furnishings and the delightful era colors transport you to a bygone era of elegance and luxury.
Breakfast was nothing short of perfection, with a delectable spread that met every expectation. However, what truly stood out was the impeccable service provided by our table attendant, Dawn. Her kindness, wit, and delightful conversation added an extra layer of warmth to an already unforgettable experience.
After breakfast, we couldn't resist capturing a few photos against the backdrop of the stunning decor – a true testament to the rich history and timeless beauty of the Greenbrier. Originally founded in 1778, this historic hotel holds nearly 250 years of stories within its walls.
Under the ownership of Governor Jim Justice, the Greenbrier has been revitalized into a world-class destination, seamlessly blending modern amenities with the timeless charm of its early history. It's evident that every effort has been made to preserve the heritage of this esteemed establishment while ensuring a luxurious experience for every guest.
Whether you're staying overnight or simply stopping by for a meal, a visit to the Greenbrier Resort is an unforgettable journey through history and hospitality. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an indulgent escape in the heart of West Virginia.
D. Triplett — Google review
Wow! Our visit to your resort was wonderful. Staff, facility and food =10 stars. The history and great condition of the property is a testament itself to true craftsmanship of those who built it.
We enjoyed the horse carriage ride, the underground bunker tour, shops and the Sam Snead golf club lunch. Thank you for a great weekend.
J C — Google review
What a wonderful getaway! This place was so much fun! There is no shortage of things to do, places to explore, and history to learn. The onsight restaurants were wonderful and the staff was extremely helpful and kind. The bunker tour was so interesting, the falconry class was super cool, and the escapes rooms were exciting! The only thing I was not impressed with was the quality of the movie theater. Other than that, our stay was perfect. I am definitely planning on coming back some time.
Jonathan Laferriere — Google review
It's lovely & nostalgic for me. While still opulent and beautiful, it is not what it used to be. Overall, it was fine - the food was very good, as were the drinks. It was small things like peeling wallpaper, dingy paint, and scuff marks. They were doing repairs without privacy screens - that never would have happened before. The service was not bad, but certainly not what one would expect at the Greenbrier. I could tell which staff had been trained in the old way. The mystery is gone - the service personnel were loud & definitely not demure as in the past. One of the bartenders seemed almost put out that we asked for a mint julep. We had a minor issue at the spa, and the staff there was diligent and made acceptable accommodations for the situation.
Sarah Barickman — Google review
Excellent stay. The staff was so professional yet welcoming and kind. They made sure that our stay was up to par and go above and beyond our expectations. I felt like royalty! Great value for what you get. We also did the bunker tour which had such rich history. Admissions was $40 for 19 years old and above. Our tour guide, Kate, was knowledgeable, friendly, and funny- she made our experience that more interesting. Unfortunately, there are no pictures allowed but it’s something you’ll have to see for yourself!
Litzy A — Google review
The grounds are lovely and the bunker tour alone is worth the visit. However, the guest rooms need some updating and were a little disappointing. I appreciate the enormous upkeep necessary to keep this property shining, but I have stayed at much older properties that do it better at similar price points. Service was professional and friendly.
J P — Google review
Beautiful resort with an incredible view of the mountains, especially at sunset. We stayed at the Top Notch Estate House and it was a great location on the property. We enjoyed playing croquet and tennis outside and also bowling at the indoor arcade. The lobby bar with huge chandelier had amazing food with excellent service. We had lunch there right before the Bunker Tour which is an absolute must and was so interesting. There is an outdoor pool plus an indoor pool in the hotel. It was fun just to walk around and take in the beauty of nature.
J B — Google review
Second visit. Beautiful scenery. Beautiful resort. The bunker is a once in a lifetime experience. I ate at the Drapers both times, and it was fantastic. I highly recommend The Candy Maker. I was just visiting the resort, so I can't speak to accommodationsn but it was a nice visit.
wun toothrie — Google review
Personally I think the negative reviewers are just complainers. I stayed here for 3 nights and I have to say, whole place is top notch. Yes its old, ITS HISTORIC. The staff is incredible the rooms are clean, and the food was good. Really enjoyed coffee by the fireplace in the morning and wish I had more time here to explore all this place has to offer when I am not here on company time.
Sam Vukas — Google review
Stayed for a weekend as part of our honeymoon and it was a wonderful experience. The history, the location, the entire resort experience, was all wonderful. They surprised us by putting real rose petals on our bed the first night we were there! Planning to stay again on future special occasions.
Thomas Wojnar — Google review
We traveled here with high hopes. It's a famed resort with a deep history. It's labeled as America's hotel.
It was disappointing to say the least. We stayed at the cottages because we brought our dogs. While the setup is great. Away from the main hotel, big rooms, a lot of green space to walk the dogs. It was an old, tattered room. We paid $350 for a dog fee, to walk into a room with old stained carpet everywhere, and a musty smell. I totally get the historical feel. But it doesn't need to be dirty. There was a fair amount of mechanical noise from the AC units near the room we could hear at night.
Now for the rest of the hotel. Parking can be self and you don't have to pay for it. That's a big plus in a resort for us. You'll pay a historical tax on literally everything you buy on property. It's like 15% or so. It adds up quickly on you. You'll also get the 20% service charge, which bartenders seem to try to hide that from you by not giving you the itemized receipt unless you ask. I got hit a few times in the start not realizing I was already paying the tip. I felt taken advantage of after I realized that.
The spa was ok. Dining was good, just expensive. Bunker tour is a let down. Trails were fun. Walking on the golf course trail was beautiful and memorable.
This was an experience for us, and that was worth it, but we would not come back.
Chris Tallyman — Google review
Great place for a vacation! The hotel is beautiful in and out. You can tell it’s over 100 years old in some parts but it is very well kept and mostly updated. The staff in the hotel and every restaurant and venue we went in was super friendly and extremely helpful. Everything is super expensive but well worth it for a special occasion.
B Powell — Google review
Step back in time to the nostalgia of Dorothy Drapers designs and pre WWII Era and experience the whimsy of the rich and famous as you walk the stunning grounds tour the inside of this luxury resort. From the horse and carriage rides, the chapel and the croquet court outside to the Gone with the Wind chandelier, portraits of royalty and the infamous Cuban missile crisis bunker on the inside the charm and aristocracy is unmatched. While the hefty price tag can be off-putting, it is worth every penny to experience the amazing customer service and indulge in this piece of history that is so unique and charming. We will definitely be visiting again!
Jennifer Spriggs — Google review
We loved every moment of the trip from afternoon tea, the history tours, the meals, our room, the evening movie, the shopping, and especially interacting with the other guests and the employees. We met so many wonderful people who go out of their way to make your stay wonderful. It was my husband's first visit and he absolutely loved it. He's already already thinking about our next trip. The highlight for me was the breakfast buffet in the dining room. It's the best breakfast you will find anywhere. Yes, the Greenbrier is pricy. Is it worth it? Absolutely!
Adena Barnette-Miller — Google review
The Greenbrier used to be noted foe its excellent quality. I have stayed before. This was a disappointing visit. They were short staffed everywhere. The room wasn't cleaned properly. Furniture in the room showed lack of maintenance. We ate in the restaurants there both nights. The food was still as delicious as always but service in Prime 44 West extremely poor. It was sad to see the decline in this once elegant resort.
Sandy Johnson-Harris — Google review
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101 W Main St, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986, USA
The Mill Mountain Star is a prominent and iconic landmark overlooking the city of Roanoke, Virginia. This neon-lit star stands at an impressive 100 feet and is a regional cultural symbol that attracts many visitors to the area. Perched on top of Mill Mountain, this location offers magnificent views of the city and surrounding natural landscape. It provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, walking or simply taking in the beautiful scenery.
The view here is incredible! It is a great place to get a quick bit of exercise (especially if you’re like me, and enjoy shorter hikes)! Thankfully the area is kept clean of trash and green with vibrant, beautiful nature aspects! I highly recommend a trip here if you’re visiting the area or simply have never been before. Whether it’s simply for the walk, photogenic properties, or to enjoy the surroundings this is a must-see location for residents and visitors alike!
Ky Miller — Google review
The star is one of the best and oldest attractions in the area, drawing visitors who are locals as well as tourists/visitors to our city. You can't beat the view of the valley, and the overlooks are perfect for capturing those gorgeous views. The playground has picnic tables next to it for a perfect spot to enjoy lunch while the kids have their own little adventures climbing, sliding, and making their way through the tunnel.
The star and overlooks are free, as well as parking, making it an excellent choice for a weekend afternoon family outing or picnic.
Krystal Nichole — Google review
I've driven by the Star on many drives through Roanoke...and finally made a trip with a friend recently; worth it! I would like to see it after dark, but seein the urban sprawl of the city, mixed with the mountain views was spectacular during the day.
There is no cost to drive up to the overlook, and not much of a walk to the monument. Park area is clean and well maintained, with historical and informational signage.
Definitely a great place to spend the day...there are other attractions nearby, including but not limited to the zoo, the discovery center, and hiking trails.
C4Explore — Google review
The Mill Mountain Star is a historical landmark in Roanoke. The view of the valley is spectacular. It has two overlooks, and walking trails. It's also in the same vicinity of the zoo (didn't visit due to time constraints), but we did take a little walk along one of the paved trails. I'd say that it's a 'must visit' spot if you are visiting the Roanoke area. (and it's free!)
ron skyberg — Google review
If you are an outdoor person and/or have a dog, this is a great place to go. The view is outstanding and the air feels crisp and clean. There are trails and paths to walk. Some of the trails are difficult (rocks and grade), but the paths are paved and easy to walk. From the parking lot to the star is an easy path. Worth the short drive up there.
JP Aus — Google review
Panoramic views of the Roanoke Valley from several overlooks. Also a zoo, small park and Discovery Center - all in the shadow of the world's largest man-made star. Only the zoo has an admission fee.
G.E. Stone — Google review
We've been walking here in the evenings for a little exercise. Nice paved paths by star and zoo. Interesting trails through woods, rocky in places but well worn paths.
L Finch — Google review
Our family enjoyed the view! The mountain biking was fun. When I walked our dog on the trail below the Star, we were greeted with so much broken glass. I thought it would be okay once I got into the forest area, but there was broken glass along the entire trail. I had to carry out dog. Bummer!
Monica Faucette — Google review
The view from Mill Mountain was great even though the weather was not so great! Even with limited visibility and rain on our heels we were still able take in a pretty nice view from the vantage point at the base of the star.
From what I could see the trails were nice(at the beginning at least)wish the weather was nicer so we could have meandered about for awhile.
The restrooms…well…for guys I hope you don’t have IBS or another sensitive tummy issue. Ladies I would just hold it seriously! It’s not worth it!
Derik Austin Matthews — Google review
Magnificent place! It's a beautiful area to stop and relax and take in the breath taking view of Roanoke and the Blue Ridge Mountains. I HIGHLY recommend a stop here!
Kim W. — Google review
What a beautiful stop this was. It's located on the Blue Ridge Mountain Road. The breath taking view looked over Roanoke. I bet it's beautiful at night! I hear the star lights up, too. They have a trail you can hike with your four-legged friends. They even offer a little dispenser of doggie poop bags. The dogwood trees were in bloom. The surrounding foliage is lush and green.
Bathrooms are also provided. The main road takes you for a scenic drive.
Cheryl Clark — Google review
This landmark is impressive and the views are amazing. At night it is very grand to see the star fully illuminated. Access is restricted after 11pm.
There is a pavilion to picnic under as well as a playground for children in the park. A beautiful garden is well maintained and a free discovery center holds information about the local geography and animals.
There is also a small zoo on Mill Mountain which can be visited for a fee. There is a miniature train you can purchase tickets to ride on and see the perimeter of the zoo. With the train tickets and entry for 4 adults and 2 children the cost was less than $100. The zoo closes prior to the park closing, so check hours ahead of time.
Mike Wilhelmsen — Google review
Beautiful, beautiful view of the city and just looking at all the mountains. Must visit if you're in Roanoke! Came to visit a friend, and she took me to see!! So grateful for the memorable opportunity she gave me as well as thinking of taking me! Thanks Olivia!!! :)
Nate Danzinger — Google review
Great thing to see up close after seeing it from below. The Roanoke Star, also known as the Mill Mountain Star, is the world's largest freestanding illuminated man-made star. It is just a short walk to the front side of the star. There is a nice platform that overlooks Roanoke for great viewing of the city below, but also with enough room to turn around and get a picture of the giant star. It was cold and starting to get dark, there were only 2-3 cars at any point. There looked to be nice restrooms but didn't go check them out.
Lindsay Varga — Google review
A marvelous view! A wonderful spot to go anytime of the day but I recommend going at night. I took my daughter and we had an absolutely amazing time! Very easy to get to. Not a far walk at all to the lookout. The lookout itself is outstanding! The star is truly a marvel. I highly recommend this for a family outing. I will be back here again and again!
Rate N'Review — Google review
Was on a work trip and went there when it was dark, the star light was light as well, we all had a flocking good time and walked away happier than when we had arrived. Besides my teams fowl language, it was kid appropriate.
Dusty Kirk — Google review
This will always be one of my favorite places in the valley! We can see it from a window in our house which is a really sweet bonus! The views are breathtaking and it's always clean no matter how many guests are on the platform. A favorite for us is to visit in December and see all the pockets of lights!
Cara Taylor — Google review
The Mill Star is usually all white except for patriotic holidays. GPS brings you to the bottom of the site. You need to keep driving until you see the entrance to the park. The view of the city from the lookout is amazing.
Deborah Esposito — Google review
I visited the Mill Mountain Star on an early morning will in town for a sporting event. Walked around the trails and walking paths. Then stopped at the star and the overlook of the city. Great view. Very easy to get to from the parking area as well.
The National D-Day Memorial in Bedford is a remarkable tribute to the valiant soldiers who lost their lives during the Normandy invasion in WWII. This museum features a magnificent arch, reflecting pool, and gardens and offers guided tours that provide visitors with an educational experience about the historic battle. Moreover, one can also see Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest Estate at this site. Although there was no water due to the season, it still offers a realistic perspective of storming the shores.
This place is wonderful stop to remember and appreciate the freedom we have today. Due to the season there wasn’t any water which gives it an even more real experience to storming the shores but wonderful nonetheless.
AL2 — Google review
One of the most impressive sites I've ever seen! I hope it stays that way. I got more than my monies worth. I just walked around and took many pictures. Next time I hope to bring my family members with me and do a group tour. Thank you, VA, for this beautiful memorial to our fallen soldiers!
The drive there was beautiful, too, but drive carefully because some of the roads have sharp curves.
Sandra S — Google review
This place is much larger than expected, mostly outdoors. We did our tour with Joe on his golf cart. He was terrific at explaining some of the behind the scenes facts we hadn't heard. We had little kids with us so the golf cart turned out to be great fun for them. Our 9 yr old did understand a lot of the tour too. It's hard to comprehend the extravagant losses felt by the tiny town of Bedford, but this tour helped greatly. Worth the $$. Ideal to go on an overcast or somewhat cool day!
Ashley Christina — Google review
SPECTACULAR!!!! Such an incredible place to honor and pay tribute and learn more about D-Day and WW2. Also, beautifully designed and surrounded by beauty. Happy to pay to enter to support this amazing place. Our 3rd visit as it changes with the seasons- this visit- gorgeous cherry blossoms. The 4415 Luminaries in December for each who gave their life at the D-Day invasion was sobering and beautiful. Also, the volunteer tour guides are excellent. A must visit place! Teacher take your students!!!!
Jennifer Elliott — Google review
A great tribute to the soldiers who gave their lives for our freedom, guided tours. Very educational and a great way to spend the day.
Bill Light — Google review
Very nice memorial. Easy access. We noticed a few RV's, so, plenty of room if you're passing through the area in a camper.
The losses that day were staggering. A lesson in history that nobody should forget.
God Bless the United States of America.
Elevation AG — Google review
Amazing educational experience and the volunteers are wonderful. Everyone should go visit and see what IS the cost of freedom.
Jenn kronenburg — Google review
An incredible afternoon spent at a very special place. Peaceful and quiet. You can do a free guided tour or tour on your own. Our guide was a Korean War veteran. His perspective was invaluable. There is something very special about this place nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Shelly Perkins — Google review
A beautifully conceived and executed memorial can be missed without knowledgeable and thoughtful docents; The National D-Day Memorial did not lack in any way today during our tour. If you come, take time to take the tour and take time to linger. It is well worth it.
Chris Manley — Google review
Very educational experience! Had a great guide who knew her history of D-Day!! They do have limited golf cart tours for the handicapped!!
This is a place everyone should visit!!
Jim Tyndall — Google review
Worth a stop if you’re in the area, but be advised that the price of admission is a bit steep. Our family took advantage of the Blue Star summer admission and got it for free, but we would have been disappointed if we paid full price.
My favorite feature is actually the bathrooms, which are structured to have an exterior built like a German pillbox and integrated into the beach landing scene.
Josh Diddams — Google review
VeryBeautiful tranquil & peaceful memorial for our WWll vets & their families.
We’ve been there multiple times & will continue to go there . This memorial is Not to be missed . Very informative friendly volunteers .
Tanya Bryan — Google review
As a Gulf War era Vet, visiting this hallowed site was a must see the next time I was in Virginia...that time was today. I spent nearly 3 hours walking, looking, pausing, reflecting and a silent prayer. Thank you to all who played a part in its creation, however even more...thank you to those who sacrificed and returned from such an ordeal unlike any other.
Jerry Peterson — Google review
This place is amazing! We met Gerald Willis and he showed us around. He was so knowledgeable, and the passion he has for this memorial is impressive. We were not planning on visiting but we made it an hour before closing and it was the best choice we made.
Omar Ocasio — Google review
Beautiful memorial to honor the people who died serving our country! You do have to pay to see the memorial. They also have a small museum and gift shop and do tours.
Victoria — Google review
Perhaps the most informative and amazing memorial of its kind that I have ever seen. Do NOT pass this up- I did for two years, not realizing that this is THE NATIONAL D-DAY MEMORIAL. if you have a desire to learn more about Operation OVERLORD and its participants, give yourself at least a half day to read all the plaques. Better yet, take a lunch ( or bundle up!) and spend the day...I promise you, you won't be disappointed.
There is an entry fee ($10-$12? - when you get through the gates, you will wonder why it isn't more -), so plan accordingly.
Following FiveStar (Joy) — Google review
This is a first class memorial that is both educational and respectful of the sacrifices of those involved in all aspects of the Normandy invasion. The grounds and monuments are beautifully maintained, and designed to tell the invasion’s story. Our guide, Rick, was excellent and provided our group with a not only the facts, but many background stories surrounding the preparation and invasion. There is a well stocked gift store that carries a wide variety of educational items at very reasonable prices. I highly recommend taking a guided tour or you will miss out on a lot of material. A guided tour should take 2 to 3 hours.
Edward Rone — Google review
I recommend having the guided tour. We did this and our guide was so knowledgeable. There were so many things I didn't know that he shared. Reasonable price. I was a little disappointed that the tour began 15mins before the start time the gate attendee told us but we were able to catch up pretty quickly.
Natasha M — Google review
Beautiful during spring with trees blossoming . It was not crowded and was a beautiful day to take in so much history and read about the sacrifice brave men and women gave for our country . Well worth the visit .
Kenny Andrews — Google review
While traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway, I went to see this. It was a very moving experience. If you enjoy World War II history, stop in. I took the tour, and it ended up as a private tour since it was just the guide and myself. My guide was Twila. She was very knowledgeable and patient with me. She has been giving tours for several years. The sculpture is very moving. I highly recommend a visit to this Memorial.
Located in Rockbridge County, Virginia, Natural Bridge is an unincorporated community that gets its name from the impressive natural arch located within it. This incredible structure can be found at the intersection of State Route 130 and U.S. Route 11. Visitors to the area will want to make sure they take a trip to Natural Bridge Park where they can see this magnificent 30-story-high rock formation for themselves.
4.5
(2134)
Virginia 24578, USA
I'll never travel to Williamsburg without this trip planner again
Drive-through safari with free-roaming elk, gazelle, zebra & other exotic fauna, plus a petting zoo.
Was a lot of fun, great family day. Only negative is if you don’t buy a lot of buckets you will run out in the middle of the route leaving animals towards the middle/end without any food so definitely buy a lot of buckets. Two of us had two each and clearly wasn’t enough and they don’t have anywhere along the trail where you could purchase more. Otherwise we will be back for sure.
Katie Bignall — Google review
Absolutely amazing. Yes there was a wait but once we got it, it was amazing. Careful the animals will take your kids food buckets. We just didn't let the animals eat out of the bucket. We had a amazing time. Would totally recommend. So much fun. Loved it.
C Huff — Google review
Wonderful experience! Ticket gets you in all day even if you leave and come back. Staff handling animals were great. Gift shop employees seemed to be having an off day. Make sure to buy plenty of food for the animal feeding. Makes it an experience you won't soon forget! Pack lunch you can eat in car or at picnic tables. Food is overpriced. Can't wait to take my grandchildren.
Joanna Marks — Google review
What fun! What an adventure! A beautiful open reserve packed with beautiful animals who approach your vehicle allowing you to feed and photograph them. Allow about an hour just for the drive-through because of traffic jams caused by the road being blocked by animals. NOTE: Actually read the rules on the brochure and share them with all passengers for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Lois Silver — Google review
Tons of great animals, many of which you can feed or touch! Really good for families. Car or tram options give you more freedom as well as safety. It was really fun and my family enjoyed it a lot. 3 stars because the buckets of food are expensive, especially with the high price of admission, but overall really great and I do recommend it
Patrick Sims — Google review
Wow! This was an amazing experience! My family and I loved being able to drive through and see, pet and feed all the amazing animals. There was an amazing selection of animals. Once you pay you can take your time and go through, which just added to the wow factor. My family and I all had an amazing time! They also have a gift shop and safari village you can walk through, however we say the safari drive through was the best part.
John Wingard — Google review
We had a great time at the Safari park. Tons of animals and interactive with them during the drive through tour. It was raining but no one has control over that. The staff were friendly and helpful with any questions. My only suggest would be having a sign about half way through the drive letting you know. We were concerned about having enough feed for the animals at the end. Started to ration but we didn’t want to have left over at the end.
Joshua Sheffield — Google review
Love this place. The animals were well taken care of. We even got to see two baby goats be born. The animals has personality, they were so funny and we really enjoyed it. Take the family. Even the rain didn't stop us.
Natasha Smith — Google review
Awesome place!! My kids didn't want to leave. I wouldn't feed from the bucket if your comfortable using your hands. They will snag the whole food bucket or throw food everywhere. All the animals were super gentle with the exception of one angry zebra. The village was awesome too!! Lots of animals, really unique place, the giraffe was really calm and let us pet him while feeding. I didn't post pictures of the drive through, those are all rather hilarious videos. It's definitely something to check out
Jacob Burrell — Google review
I loved it, you can have communication with the animals, touch them, buy food and give them!!!! I recommend it, it will be an unforgettable and unique experience!!!
On the other hand, the animals are malnourished, they need more attention and care, that alone makes me sad!! remember that animals come into contact with your car they can scratch your car so don't get mad and enjoy
K-r3ly Monterrosa — Google review
Such a fun place! The Animals will totally knock the feed buckets out of your hands , hang on with your best ninja grip. Towards the end there are buffalo, you might want to ration your food if you'd like to see them close up. Nice gift shop and other things as well. Last entry for the day is 4pm.
Mary Day — Google review
This was our third visit there. The first time we went by ourselves. The second time was with our daughter and grandchildren. This is just such a WONDERFUL, FUN place!!!! I was determined not to lose a bucket this time (would've been a first) but, no, I couldn't hold on. We just love this place!!!! Plus there is the walk-through zoo where you can get up close and personal, too. This is a fun place for everyone !This is must-go-to place!!!
Lori Parker — Google review
My visit to the Virginia Safari Park was an absolute delight. At $30 per person, it may seem a bit pricey at first, but the experience is well worth it. The highlight of the visit was undoubtedly the drive-through safari, where I had the opportunity to feed friendly animals up close from the comfort of my own vehicle.
One tip I'd offer is don’t use all the animal feed at the beginning, so that you can enjoy feeding the animals throughout the entire drive. It's a small detail, but it made a big difference in prolonging the enjoyment of the experience.
Additionally, the safari park section offered a chance to see even more animals and birds, adding further value to the visit.
From start to finish, the Virginia Safari Park provided a memorable and immersive wildlife encounter that I highly recommend to anyone in the area.
It's definitely worth the drive and cost for a day filled with unforgettable moments and close encounters with fascinating creatures.
Kids, in particular, will love the thrill of feeding the animals right from the car windows, making it an experience they will cherish it for years to come !!
Santhosh Reddy — Google review
The Virginia Safari park is a story maker. We always leave here with a funny story. They have made wonderful improvements to include a cafe in the walk thru area which includes a Kangaroo walk about, an apiary, a giraffe feeding station, and many other fun animals. There are plenty of spots to sit and stroller/wheelchairs/etc will go smoothly on paths. The drive thru part is a treasure. You can roll down your windows have your purchased feed bucket ready and enjoy the hilarity. It does cost 26.95 per adult, 25.95 for senior, 18.95 for children 2-12 yrs.
S Gomez — Google review
My son and I had a lot of fun yesterday. Great place to spend about 3-4 hours or so. We bought 2 buckets and sparingly gave the animals food. They eat very well. Some will reach in to the car for the bucket! Will definitely return.
Joe Michaud — Google review
Had an amazing time!!! The ride through Safari was so much fun & exciting. It was intimidating at first because some animals would stick their heads all the way in the car to feed. Some more gently than others. Just like humans, it was fun to experience the different personalities. Some lamas & emus were the most aggressive. Nothing too bad but you have to be careful or they will make you lose your grip on food bucket. The deer & bulls seem to be the most mild mannered. All in all such a great experience! The petting zoo was Awesome too! The grounds are kept up very well & the animals seem to be so comfortable and relaxed in their habitats. They were not shy at all. The monkeys were a pure joy to see them playing like no one was watching. I totally recommend going & taking your family. You will be in awe!
Waynett W — Google review
Amazing Safari Experience! It was so amazing to drive through the park and feed animals. Such an interactive experience we have never had before. Beats any zoo experience. The walk through part was very nice as well. Everything was tidy, well organized. There was also a wonderful place with parrots where you can feed them and they land on your shoulder/hand. My son loved it. We came on the weekend and there were very few people there.
Jane Girda — Google review
Don't hesitate, it's worth the money! This park is so much fun. Buy lots of food buckets, skip the giraffe feeding (too expensive and the giraffes didn't show). The animals are beautiful and friendly... llamas chasing you in the car is a pretty surreal experience. The parakeet aviary was great too. Our kids loved it, but it's a fun day even for just adults. I'd go by myself just to laugh like that again. Absolutely recommend
C. S. — Google review
The safari park is so fun to do, especially with kids. The animals are mostly gentle and it's hilarious how they try and get the food in the buckets! You better hold on to it tight, and watch out for those ostriches. They can be a little aggressive. Loved the little birds, they are so colorful. You need to purchase the budgee sticks to feed them. They land all over you and they are so beautiful! The other animals are amazing as well. You will have a blast!
Summer Sauls — Google review
The Virginia Safari Park has EASILY become our new favorite family fun spot! Our 2 year old thinks it is absolutely beyond magical! The animals are all so beautiful!
We had never been before until they opened up for the season this year and we are beyond happy that we came! We ended up buying the season passes and make an hour+ drive without a second thought!
Thank you for having such an amazing park where we can make memories that will last a lifetime!
Kaitlyn Elizabeth — Google review
I got so much more than I expected. There were many animals in the drive-through. It is a very interesting terrain to drive and animals are everywhere. Don't use all your animal feed at the beginning as there are animals throughout the drive. Then there is the safari park where you walk through to see more animals that are penned. Access is so great, you can get so close to the animals. We had a very enjoyable visit. One of the best parks of this type we have been to. You will enjoy.
Marsha Lance — Google review
My family and I absolutely love it here! The animals were active and looked healthy. This may seem pricey but is worth the money!
Ashley Jordan — Google review
Had such a wonderful time with my family. I can’t wait to come back! The price is so very much worth it and affordable. Will probably get a season pass!
Sarah Roberts — Google review
We absolutely loved our time at the park!! 🤩(we were visiting family in VA from MN) Our grandsons(8,7&6) really enjoyed everything too!😃 It was so fun to feed the animals through the window of our van! 🫎🦓🦌🦬🐂🐐Getting to feed the giraffes was amazing! 🦒It has been a long time since we laughed so hard! We went through twice! The gift shop was also great!
Kim H — Google review
Highly recommend!!! The up close experience with the animals is beyond words. Be warned, as soon as you enter the gate the animals waiting will sweet talk you then steal your bucket. Protect your bucket!!! The happy and highly well cared for animals you see is definitely worth it!
The American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse is a charming venue that offers classical performances in a re-creation of Shakespeare's indoor theater. The theater enforces strict COVID protocols, including vaccine and ID checks at the entrance and mandatory mask-wearing to protect the actors. Romeo and Juliet 2022 was an amazing production, featuring music, singing, phenomenal acting, stunning voices, and raw emotion that was breathtaking.
At the entrance they do check your vaccine status as well as your ID, and yes they do require you to wear a mask to protect the actors. I respect that, especially now during the pandemic.
With that said…Romeo and Juliet 2022 was AMAZING! The cast played music and sang before the show started, and during the intermission. The acting was phenomenal, their voices were amazing, the raw emotion they use in their art was breathtaking. My family and I truly loved the show and the beauty of the theatre itself!
We had driven 3+ hours to see the play, and it was worth the drive!
Raven Wolf — Google review
My husband and I spent the weekend in Staunton, celebrating our anniversary. We love history and the arts so we thought it'd be a good choice, and seeing Julius Caesar performed at this theater was a wonderful addition to our weekend plans. The staff were great and the actors were amazing. They really stay true to the Shakespearean experience and it's something to behold! Everyone did a magnificent job. My only complaint is that we sat in the second row on the second level and there was absolutely no back support. It's just a bench, which can be uncomfortable after 2+ hours. It appeared that the other seats had at least partial backs. Just something to make note of if you're making seat selections. Other than that, terrific!
Robin Lunsford — Google review
We went for the matinee of Romeo and Juliet it had a modern spin and was all and all a wonderful performance.
The venue is great with great acoustics.
Bryan Vig — Google review
The missus and I attended the opening night of Taming of the Shrew, and had a rollicking good time. Delivery was fast-paced and energetic. I can see why this style of entertainment would have been popular in 1592.
Minus 1 for the seating. While we weren't standing for the performance, the thin cushions on the wood benches began to become quite uncomfortable after about 90 minutes. At least there were seat backs.
All-in-all, it was very interesting for us to experience Shakespeare as it would have appeared in the Bard's period. We would love to return for another performance.
David Bissette — Google review
What a fun place! The small cast puts on a few different plays during the season. I saw pride and prejudice and had a blast. Lots of laughs. They cast also plays some music before the show so get there a little earlier to see that. Would love to see more of their offerings.
Emily Schulz — Google review
Decent performance. The staff is incredibly Rude! A family of 5, spending $300 to attend, which pales to other theaters but the treatment was nasty! One member having severe asthma and literally cannot breathe for over two hours with a mask, only slightly pulling it away to keep from unnecessary attention, but attendants acting like we were criminals. Unnecessary and totally unnerving! We followed their rules but what a horrible experience!!!! Perhaps after Covid it would be okay but from people who have literally gone to the theater all over the world, not worth the fuss!
Note, seats on the side also show less than 50% of the show.
Pamula Poteet — Google review
love it love it love it!!! saw the preview of the TEMPEST and it was amazing!!!! definitely go see a show when you are in town. staunton va was such a pleasant surprise! amazing theater and cast. a must do
J D — Google review
They make Shakespeare so fun! Just watched As You Like It and had an amazing experience. Laughed so hard at one point that I started crying. Wonderful actors and productions and a gorgeous venue! Definitely worth the visit!!
Rose Sebastian — Google review
It is a very nice theater, though the seats can be a bit more comfortable.
I attended a performance of Measure for Measure. Most of the cast was capable, however the actor playing the villain whispered too many of his lines and could not be understood.
The theater includes a small bar and gift shop, though I did not avail myself of their services.
It is worth a visit when in town.
MFPhoto1 — Google review
I came here about a month ago for the first time with a couple of friends of mine and I was so enthralled at the beautiful space, the friendliness of the staff, and the absolutely wonderful performances of the actors. We saw Much Ado About Nothing and I loved it so much that I brought my mom and sister with me to another showing this past weekend. I am so glad that I know about the American Shakespeare Center, it is definitely going to become somewhere I plan to frequent whenever I can. I particularly loved the incorporation of music in the breaks before and in the middle of the play. These actors are so incredibly talented, I really cannot say enough nice things about my experience here.
Hannah Sullivan — Google review
We have been to the Center several times over the past decade, but this 2023 season is exceptional. Fantastic acting, costumes, scenery. The play we saw was the Christmas Carol and our adult children agreed that it was a visit unlike any before. Highly recommend!!
Dirk Petersen — Google review
Excellent, excellent, excellent. If you have the opportunity to visit, go. The players and cast are amazing. They pull you right into the performance. I was somewhat skeptical at first. But you will not be disappointed. We are looking forward to returning.
James Staton — Google review
Shakespeare has never been so accessible and perfect! Love the bar.
Wish the gift shop had more stuff to buy.
Some of the performers could not project their voice and need to learn that.
Loved it when they had the synopsis of the first half of the play printed out
Eric D — Google review
Love love love this place! You are transported back in time with the decor and set up but then the actors bring fresh content and present humor and I love seeing them play music and have fun together! Always entertaining and if you want to have an adventure can sit on stage sometimes to participate with the actors.
Anna Finch — Google review
The company has so much *fun* onstage, it's contagious! Performers are top-notch, and their interpretation of Shakespeare is modern and accessible. We love the musical numbers beforehand and at intermission (with song choices usually hilariously relevant to the play). Maybe I've only seen comedies thus far?
Kate Adamson — Google review
This is a gorgeous recently renovated theater in Staunton, Virginia. We went to see The Tempest by William Shakespeare on a weekday. The acting was excellent. Bonus points for labeling the gender-neutral bathroom and for the actors telling us their pronouns in the talk back about the show. This was my first time in Staunton and my first time at the theater. We will definitely come back!
Benjamin Randolph — Google review
Beware of upper level seating...
I bought tickets ($60 each ticket) for my family to see Christmas Carol. It was incredibly disappointing. We were on the second level and could not see the stage. If we stood up and leaned over the railing, then we could see; otherwise, we could only see the tops of a few heads on the far end of the stage. If we stood up, we blocked others view. We left at intermission. I called the manager. In a condescending manner, she told me I should have read the frequently asked questions. So, just beware the upper level view (on the sides) is almost obstructed. We have decided against going back in January to see a Shakespeare play.
Appomattox Court House National Historical Park is a living museum consisting of more than twenty-five restored structures such as homes, businesses, and taverns. The park commemorates the end of the Civil War when General Robert E. Lee surrendered the Army of Northern Virginia to General Ulysses S Grant at McLean House in Appomattox Court House. Visitors can explore several buildings containing original and period furniture from 1865.
The pull-offs are very well done. With the descriptions posted, you can imagine all the troops there. Probably best to start with the video In the visitor center. It's well done and only about 15 min long. The displays are great. There are some really well done exhibits that are very informative. We were amazed to find out there are no fees for this park. What a great way to spend a half day learning about history. The jail was a little creepy with the old shackles and hangman noose. Overall, a great park with some really neat exhibits.
Charles Bowen — Google review
The history here is amazing. We learned about the culmination of the American Civil War. Being able to tour the building where terms of surrender were written, learning about the mindset of how the war was ended in favor of building unity. The grounds and buildings are well maintained. The movie should be watched in the courthouse before going to the surrounding buildings. This is a big part of American History and if you are able to visit, I highly recommend it.
David Shannon — Google review
A perfect park! NPS did a fantastic job of preserving this important historic site and documenting the context and storyline of the events at Appomattox. Particularly, Ranger Luke truly made our experience memorable. His greeting at the visitor center was friendly, and he enthusiastically answered all our questions at the McLean House.
The town of Appomattox is well preserved, and the walk is so pleasant around all of the old buildings. There are numerous nature / history trails to select from if you’re interested in a longer stroll. Between the small museum, the town of Appomattox, and walking to a few battlefield sites (one could easily drive if preferred), I easily walked over 6 miles just taking in the history.
Julie Wilder — Google review
What a great historical park. The history and the amount of information was awesome. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. Really a great experience for all. Watch the video at the visitor center first before visiting the rest of the park. The video is well worth it.
Justin McElwain — Google review
Very interesting to learn the history of the battles leading up to the surrender,
how the meeting took place, and some of the key terms that were included.
You can go through several of the buildings, and there is a junior ranger badge.
There is also a full room of displays on some of the African Americans involved (both as slaves and soldiers).
Ethan Lindstrom — Google review
Appomattox Court House is a must-see for any American history buff. This is such an important part of American History!
They have a great museum and visitor center and the video does a great job of explaining the historical significance.
Another well done for the National Parks!
See the actual desk Lee surrendered to Grant from, the actual pens used, and many Civil War artifacts. So important to our country! Loved the visit and I highly recommend it.
Vineyards surrounded by mist-shrouded mountains, offering wine tastings & an elegant restaurant.
Love the views from this vineyard! Atmosphere was great! Plenty of seating and not crowded. We went in April, so it could be more busy during the summer months, but they do reservations, so I would suggest that when it gets warmer. My fiance and I both had different sandwiches and they were delicious. They also have a separate restaurant on the grounds with more food options. We left with four different bottles of wine, and could have left with more since they were all fantastic. Highly recommend this place for wine enthusiasts or just the casual wine drinker.
Joseph Dean — Google review
Club member since forever. My wife is a picky wine drinker and has rarely been disappointed. The reserve selections have been spectacular since at least 2020. Incredible value with discounts galore and many options from white, red, mixed, and reserves. Cannot recommend this option highly enough. We've never had a single problem in over a decade of quarterly offerings. Obviously the crowds have grown over the years but the ownership and staff have anticipated this and planned accordingly. Reservations and early arrival really help ensure the best experience.
Charles Queen — Google review
We stayed at the Farmhouse at Veritas last November and enjoyed a four course wine paired dinner. Unfortunately there was a forest fire in Rockfish Gap with a resulting traffic jam that prevented us from attending "wine hour" prior to dinner. We visited the tasting room on 5 April 2025 and had the opportunity to enjoy more of this vineyard's offerings. This was the highlight of our weekend when it comes to the four vineyards visited.
The tasting area here is a large two-story affair with plenty of outdoor seeting as well. We did not have a look at the food menu but did start to get hungry watching all of the food go by.
Vesritas was awarded three gold medals in the 2024 Governor's cup and we enjoued them all. The two wines on the white side of the ledger are coming home with us to be enjoyed later. Highly recommended!
Bob Black — Google review
Delightful experience! We sampled both the reserve and classic flights. Both were top notch and we found the wines very palate pleasing!
The grounds of the Vineyard were welcoming and provided a relaxing atmosphere.
We enjoyed our visit and look forward to another in the future.
Beverly Altobello — Google review
Great wine and atmosphere! $20 for a flight tasting of four wines. We went around 11:30am when they first opened and were able to sit down without a reservation. I can definitely see the outside getting crowded during the warmer months and would recommend making a reservation. Their reservation process is confusing and not streamlined, but that may be due to third party websites issue.
Brandon Bawden — Google review
Loved this place! The waitress was super kind and friendly. I was able to try 2 sweet desert wines and bought a bottle of one of them. The cheese board was delicious with various cheese, grapes and raisins - very worth the price! I'll definitely come back with a friend next time.
Sam Hoang — Google review
Definitely a popular place was glad we made a reservation for table service! Definitely recommend the charcuterie boards! They’re large and filling. We did a tasting and enjoyed that to accommodate their business they had tasting videos to review their wines.
Taylor Yeagle — Google review
Beautiful winery! This is more a live younger crowd. Make reservations for the outdoor seating. The inside seating was also beautiful, but obviously you miss the views of the property. It has great menu items for food. We ordered the bacon toast which was delicious. All of the white wines were great! I would definitely go back and hangout again.
Danielle Sydnor — Google review
Update:our first Starry Night experience couldn't have been better! we sat on the deck and had a plated dinner! Wow! Food was FANTASTIC! Wine and servers were both 100%. Company at our table and the next table were all very friendly. Enjoyed all our concersations! Everyone we spoke too thoroughly enjoyed their dinner! Many compliments to the Chef! Well done. We will be back.
Our first visit today was fabulous! Beautiful location, great wines and incredible food! Going back tomorrow for Starry Nights! Can't WAIT!
Cindy Leon — Google review
We had a great first visit to Veritas! Wines were delicious, views were incredible, and great service. The charcuterie board is a great value!!
Katie Gibson — Google review
Overall our experience at Veritas was nice. Good wine, a stacked charcuterie board and a decent view of the grounds
Service was okay. When I made my reservation I added a table side wine tasting and once we arrived and it was explained to us I couldn’t see paying $40/person so we just opted for a bottle of wine.
Also the number of restrooms is an issue. At one point there was a line 7-8 deep. Fortunately our table was on the opposite side and we were able to enjoy our wine in peace without a line of people beside us
Jeremy Keesee — Google review
Veritas vineyards and winery is a wonderful place to visit over and over again! We are club members and each time we go to pickup our order, we also get lunch and enjoy our complimentary glass of wine. Not to mention, the grounds are a great place to enjoy the beautiful picturesque scenery. Finally, the wine is excellent! Dec 2023 - went to the Illumination night and really enjoyed it!
LuAnn Hunt — Google review
Not much to say, great place, fun, and well done. Been here for a wedding and for wine tasting with lunch. All good!
Greg — Google review
Veritas Vineyards and Winery is an annual visit for my family as the wine selection is our favorite overall in the area. Additionally, the atmosphere is gorgeous, there is indoor and outdoor seating options available, they have excellent food to grab for your visit, and their staff are always helpful and friendly.
Energetic aquatic park featuring indoor & seasonal outdoor waterslides & pools, plus an arcade.
We all had a ball plan to revisit again... Loads of things to do for every age group. Life guards every where. Plenty places to sit. Great food.
Lisha Faith — Google review
Always a great getaway for the kids. The water park is amazing BUT not enough concession options when we were there. The line to the snack bar was literally an hour and half. Very sad. Other than that, all was okay.
GoodConsuma I. — Google review
This place is fun not just for the kids, but adults as well. I have come here a few times over the past 10 years. They are always adding new attractions or making updates to the park. I suggest getting your moneys worth. Get there when they open and leave about 20 minutes before they close. There are both indoor and outdoor attractions. Slides, tubes, lazy river, pool basketball, hot tubs and more. There are a few attractions for smaller kids but not that many. If you don’t like water, you can rent a cabana outside for the day and relax. There is a snack bar that serves alcohol as well. They are a little pricey so I would suggest bringing some drinks and sandwiches or snacks. Wheelchair and handicap accessible. Small gift shop on the top floor. Overall a great experience and definitely worth the price of admission. Make sure to check times before arriving. Different open and close times most days. Can’t wait to come back!
Andrew Izzo — Google review
First and foremost, although I typically refrain from composing reviews, my recent experience compels me to share my sentiments. Upon arrival, I was promptly informed that the park had reached full capacity. Accompanying me were six individuals, four of whom possessed tickets acquired through a timeshare presentation incentive. While I acknowledge the unconventional method of obtaining four tickets, priced at a steep $70 per person, the situation is nonetheless disheartening. It raises questions regarding the park's policies: if they had indeed sold out, the issuance of tickets to those without prior reservations should have been preempted. Consequently, one would expect the option to procure additional tickets for the remaining members of my party, if not at least one or two. Regrettably, this was not the case.Furthermore, it came as a disappointment that towels were not provided by the park. This lack of amenities necessitates visitors to bring their own. Moreover, despite being aware that only the indoor water park was operational, the absence of the main attraction, the meltdown tower of water, compounded our dissatisfaction. Such an omission denies children the opportunity to experience a significant highlight of the park. Notably, my children, upon reflecting on our past experiences, expressed a preference for establishments such as Westgate Town Center in Florida or even Great Wolf Lodge.Additionally, the absence of a dedicated swimming pool for children, coupled with a limited operating time from 3 pm to 7 pm, leaves much to be desired. The recent opening of a section at 3:50 pm only serves to underscore the lack of foresight in managing the park's resources efficiently. While there is an inclination to delve further into the myriad inconveniences experienced during our stay, including the absence of towels, malfunctioning dryers, and the unwelcome presence of big black ants in the cabinets, such matters warrant a separate review dedicated to the resort itself.In summation, the overarching sentiment is one of dissatisfaction. The anticipation for a memorable experience was met with disappointment, exacerbated by the myriad shortcomings encountered throughout our visit. As of April 3, 2024, at 3:53 pm, it is regrettable to acknowledge that our expectations were not met, and the experience fell short of what was anticipated.
Bryan Bonner — Google review
Very fun water park! Did not get pictures of the arcade but they have recently expanded it, while adding a larger prize booth. The rides were absent of any long lines despite going on a Saturday. The staff are friendly and attentive. Rides for people of all ages, our favorite was the 3 person tube slides that are really fast. The wave machine was really unique. $53 a person was a little high for me, since you can do everything in the water park within 2 hours even on a busy day. If you do not book your passes online, expect to pay around $7 to $10 dollars more. Also, staying on the resort property does not get you any discounts unless you are a member. Will definitely visit again!
Justin Hoffman — Google review
A true gem of the Shenandoah Valley! Massanutten has always been our favorite way to end summer break. The indoor waterpark is perfect for winter getways on the lazy River and great for big and littles alike with a multitude of waterslides for all ages. The expansive water fun system is hours of play for everyone.
The outside is a true oasis. I highly suggest renting a cabana, grabbing a frozen drink, and letting you big kids have hours of fun in the wave pool, the huge rainbow slide or even take your littles to the obstacles, splash pad or the basketball dunk pool. The service was top-notch, and the lifeguards are even better!
If you have been thinking of a cool weekend getaway for a waterpark. This is it!
karla snell — Google review
Small compared to the amount of people they let in. No room to swim. Doors left open, so it was cold. Just packed. The resort was nice, but not many resort activities, just the expensive adventure stuff. For the most expensive part of the resort, the cleaning staff needs to pay better attention. Too many requirements before checkout. Usually, it's get out before 10am. At Massanutten it's start the dishwasher, strip the beds, and take out the trash, and get out by 10am. Too expensive for all of that. Hospitality is lost when you mention you don't want to purchase vacation ownership with them.
Lynn Huth — Google review
Tons of fun! My kids and the adults had a blast! We came here in October and only did the indoor areas. So much fun! So much to do and see! Definitely will do this often as possible!
J R — Google review
We had so much fun! Place was not to full on Monday 3h before closing and we had tons of rides. Kids ages 10, 12 and 14 and the parents all enjoyed our time. Staff was great and customer service delightful as I bought an extra ticket online for the wrong day and they totally had no problem addressing a refund!
5- stars! You can bring your towel. No more pics as I put phone away and had fun instead.
Raquel Wells — Google review
We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves at the Massanutten Indoor/outdoorWater Park. There are exciting water activities & relaxing water activities as well. Things for young kids & things for older/less mobile adults. We had a great time. Note: I suggest eating before going & then eating afterwards "outside" of the park. This is because the food is a bit pricey for a family. 12 to 13 bucks for one single burger (not including fries or drink). Also, the food is just "average food at best. That's the only constructive criticism I have. Aside from that, it was a great.
Vernon Eason — Google review
Pricey, but we had a full day of fun. You can play indoors or outdoors. There is food on-site available. Lockers for rent $30. You'll get either $10 back or a $15 arcade card with locker key return. It was clean. Lifeguards are attentive.
Ann Christopherson — Google review
Huge Indoor Park! Tickets are steep but if you’re on vacay, you want to be in there! Buying tickets in advance on website is helpful and a little cheaper.
Lata Melwani — Google review
This review is for Christmas lights. Went there for Christmas Lights that they are doing it for the first time in the Outdoor section of the Waterpark. Overall, it was a good experience, something new. Buy tickets online to save. They have a little coffee shop set up there with a selection of coffee and sweets. At the time of my visit, the credit card machine was not working, so I had to pay with cash. The downside is that it is small if you compare it to price. $20 for 10-15 min walk..
Eugene S — Google review
We were celebrating our granddaughters birthday. First time visiting. Loved it! I was very impressed with the life guards, shocked at the number of missing toddlers I witnessed them helping.
Parents need to learn that life vests are not your "babysitter" And may want to watch the Sounds of Freedom Movie.
It would be great if there was somewhere to get water especially since it's hot. (Maybe I missed it ?)
The only other observation was the dress code. I guess I did not expect to see the types of bathing suits allowed. Some beaches don't even allow thongs. I was just shocked. Cheeky is one thing, a string only, is something else. 🙈
X-Tina 0821 — Google review
Massanutten Waterpark is really nice! You can attend all year around because they have indoor and outdoor sections. Since most people talked about the waterpark, I will describe other sections of the building as well. If you do not want to be in the water like myself but you'd like to still watch your children or family have fun you can go to the watch area upstairs. Let me explain the waterpark building a little bit more.
There are 3 levels to the water park building. The too floor: gift shop, waterpark observation seating area, dessert store, and restaurant. The middle floor is an arcade for all ages. The bottom level is for the waterpark.
The top floor is where you can buy tickets to everything related to massanutten resort. You can also go into the gift shop and buy items. There is also a sweetz dessert bar and a bar & grill restaurant on the top floor. This is also where you'd look down at the waterpark in the seating area to watch your family. The second floor is basically a dave n busters area. The entire floor has up to date games. I noticed the staff constantly cleaning the game area while i was there. And the bottom floor is all related to the park which is where you enter, store your items, buy your tickets and so in.
Natlie — Google review
This was so much fun. I felt like a child all over again. The slides were fun and my 4 yrs old daughter was everywhere and it was safe. . The tube ride was relaxing and I highly recommend for a nice vacation getaway for the family. I did wear sun shades because the water splashes everywhere.
Tanisha Maxwell — Google review
Great place to visit, especially if you live in the area because you can always go back and forth. If you do not live in the area is best to stay a couple days and experience the full effect of the resort. There is so much to do so. Many options from all ages of the family and yes, you do have to drive a little bit here and there. It is all within a short radius. I highly recommend a visit if you haven't and if you have, why not visit again? There is one thing that I would recommend that. The park change that every person that pays for a ticket to the water part could at least receive a towel. It was not informed to me prior to that. My admission did not even include a towel. And I had to purchase a towel for 4 plus people in my party. To me that was my only concern. Am I only issue I went to the water park? Add to the masoning resort with no expectations and my expectations were met. I feel like if you have expectations. Then you could be disappointed so from my experience of my family's experience. We had a great time.
The University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, features historic buildings and is home to many academic programs. The university's Rotunda, modeled after Rome's Pantheon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Fralin Museum showcases art from ancient times to the modern day.
Everyone was amazing and very helpful! Thank you for taking such good care of me at the hosptial!
Heather Shaffer — Google review
A+ health standard.
F. Jody Brown — Google review
My experience at the Colonnade Club has been one of the best on Grounds. It is a very pleasant place, well kept, and with a most genial staff. They are friendly, greet you warmly, and are willing to chat and make you feel at home. I have been at the University for several years, and this has not been the case all the time. In the last year, however, I have seen a tremendous change with the current staff. It has made the Colonnade a place of respite from daily grind where a cup of coffee, a few cookies, and a warm reception by the staff makes my day. My colleagues and I frequently comment on this pleasant turn of events. Keep it up. Your staff make the place what it is!
Yitna Firdyiwek — Google review
Great group of staff. My THANKS to each and everyone.
Susan Ruleman — Google review
Pro: Unmistakably a university. Many nice bricks. Has a piece of the Berlin Wall. I am told the libraries work properly.
Con: Seems like it may be controlled by secret societies. No, really, there are too many of them and they leave sinister marks all over campus. No joke here.
J. Harry Caufield — Google review
Depending on the time you get to the ER if they will be busy or not. I have only been on a few floors and what I can tell the nurses are nice and a few really do care about you and and not just here for a paycheck. I have talked to UVA Security and Millennium Security and both work here are are really helpful.
Located just outside Charlottesville, Virginia, in the Piedmont region, Monticello was originally a 5,000 acre plantation built by Thomas Jefferson. The estate is now open to the public and features tours of the mansion and slave quarters as well as a museum and cafe.
Awesome Experience & Tour of Monticello! Highly recommend taking the guided tour. Monticello is filled with much history, inventions, interesting architecture and gorgeous gardens of President Thomas Jefferson's. Over the years, I have gone on the guided tour three times and I always learn something new. My favorite are all the inventions of Thomas Jefferson. I also love walking though the amazing vegetable gardens and flower gardens. Highly recommend if you are in the area! Wonderful history!
Beverly Albrecht — Google review
My wife is a history major and had Monticello on her bucket list, so I decided to take her on a special vacation to visit this historical landmark. What a special day we had despite the rain. The facility was very well organized, had a great gift shop and is well maintained. We decided to take the self-guided tour so we could take our time and really take everything in. My wife was in heaven walking room to room and observing all the historical artifacts in the home of our third president, Thomas Jefferson. The home had paintings, Indian relics, antique furniture, books, a poignant scene of children's toys, and unique technical devices from the 1700-1800s. The grounds were amazing and full of beautiful plants, trees and vegetable gardens. Many areas had QR codes that allowed you to pull up a web site on a cell phone, providing written descriptions and audio recordings. There was a great little snack shop on the grounds that offered unusual soft drinks, candy, ice cream and other wonderful treats. We spent over 2 hours taking it all in and enjoying the breath taking scenic views of the mountains and rolling hills. A truly memorable day learning about the history of the home of our third president of the United States of America.
Torch Reviews — Google review
We had the most excellent guide, Ashley, for the Slavery to Freedom tour. She told the story and asked thoughtful questions that drew her audience into the period. She all of the questions that were thrown at her. She was not judgemental. The museum itself was great at giving us a visual of the man Thomas Jefferson and his plantation. This is an experience that we highly recommend for everyone. The main gift shop had a wealth of additional information. The price for the tour is reasonable given that we had the freedom to see other things.
All of the staff were very nice. I loved the convenience of the air conditioned shuttle. We didn't take pictures of the house this time. The architecture is amazing. Thanks to the foundation for preserving this history. Good job.
Jackie Lynch — Google review
Just incredible! Please take the time to drive here and take the tour. The guided tour was so informative with background on different events.
Must see for our children to get a better understanding of our founding fathers and the life they lived.
Loved seeing the replica Declaration of Independence, less than 50 still known to be in existence.
Lots of walking paths and beautiful views.
Tim Chester — Google review
A great historical site, highly recommended to anyone who is interested in history, architecture, or agriculture. The house is truly grand and beautiful. I loved hearing the history of the color choices throughout the home, and the many other little stories that help us see Jefferson as a human being and not just a historical figure.
Dena Cooper — Google review
We had a great visit to Monticello. They have done a great job of preserving and restoring a very important part of history. The tour guides are extremely informative. They have an actor who speaks as Thomas Jefferson. He is amazing, he even takes questions.
Monticello is beautiful and so educational. I highly recommend a visit!
Jason Sargent — Google review
We took the Wednesday 11.00 "Behind the scenes" tour. Our guide was fantastic. It was a fact filled and interesting narrative delivered with ease, and he fielded all of the questions that were asked effortlessly. Staff at the ticketing office were also really helpful. The building is interesting albeit a bit strange and the grounds are magnificent.
Robert Tobin — Google review
This is an outstanding property and we were really happy we came up for the day. Thomas Jefferson was quite the architect (along with all his other accomplishments) and this house/grounds has a lot of innovations that you will not see in other houses of that period. Highly recommend the behind the scenes tour and get there early as you can easily spend all day there.
Rick Adkins — Google review
One of the most well done tours I’ve ever been to.
Amazing experience from the drive in to the tour. We purchased the Behind the Scenes Tour that takes you into the house and the rotunda—it’s worth the investment! You get to walk through history. We saw the actual books Jefferson owned, his bed, his personal tools, and so much more. The tour guides are insightful, thoughtful, and kind. Getting to walk through history has no substitute! Highly recommend for anyone visiting Charlottesville!
N — Google review
I had one $#@& tour guide send me to the wrong place to wait for our tour, which then started 15 minutes early. Then openly mocked me for bringing me children (6, 9, 11) on the tour. In front of an entire tour group. Despite this guy...
this place is fantastic. The gardens, the views, the architecture museum. We spent 4hrs here learning and being awed by the significance and history of it all. My wife and I could have easily spent more time there, but kids.
We did the cheapest tour, which is only the ground floor. If it was just the two of us we'd have done the full thing to see the dome. I highly recommend getting there early and doing the architectural museum at the bottom of the hill before going up. Spend a good 45 minutes doing all the reading and learning of what Jefferson did before going to lay eyes on the building.
Jason Craft — Google review
Spectacular. Monticello is as much a place of learning as it is an architectural feat. I have been over ten times at this point and learn or see something totally new each time. Take an unguided tour if you’re on a repeat visit and linger awhile in the well-appointed rooms. Don’t miss out on the museum next to the bus stop, and by all means go to the store!
Claire-Marie Brisson — Google review
An amazing historical site! There is lots of history surrounding this estate to learn and explore. The tour was a great experience. The views of the surrounding area were beautiful and very calming.
I highly recommend visiting!
Thomas Rauk — Google review
Did the 45-min guided tour; very organized. Definitely worth it. Unfortunately, we had only 2.5 hrs to spare, so not enough time. Recommend at least 3 hrs if you want to soak in the history.
Awesome place for history buff. A lot of great history, somber ones too. The guide provided great info about the mansion as well as Jefferson's history, good and bad. The guided tour about slavery at Monticello was a somber one, but a must do. We also attended the "Meet Thomas Jefferson." The gentleman who portrayed Jefferson did an excellent job.
The grounds and gardens were immaculate. The trees are beautiful and saved us from the scorching 90° sun. The views were spectacular.
amie k — Google review
I loved the history tours that you could do. The house itself was amazing! I do recommend going to the tours, which are very fun and educational. They have several tours at different times you can go to throughout the day. Also, get tickets in advance. It really puts you in Jefferson's shoes being there.
Abigail Fisher — Google review
The Thomas Jefferson Foundation has done a phenomenal job with the aesthetics of the property and restoring the dependencies for their visitors. What I don’t like about visiting here is how commercialized it feels, especially compared to the other historic home tours in Virginia. You pay $42 for the highlights tour, with tours running every five minutes. That means you only have five minutes in each room to hear the guides presentation, look around, and ask questions. Our tour had so many people that we couldn’t see most of the rooms because we were packed in like sardines. We were then shuffled very quickly to the next room. When I asked the ticket counter about other options we were recommended the Behind the Scenes tours or private tours. Private tours start at $750 for four people. I love Virginia history and again, the property was beautiful, I just wish the tour hadn’t felt so crowded and rushed.
Megan Ladd — Google review
Dogs are allowed on the grounds!
We enjoyed our Highlights tour at Monticello, although I wish they gave more information about the house and Jefferson's inventions, special home details, and his amazing contributions to American history .. I had watched a documentary about the house and honestly I learned more watching the documentary than the tour guide: The guide was obsessed with his relationships thus we left the tour early because we couldn't listen to Hannah's commentary; maybe there's a guide who is more involved in the details of the house and Jefferson's accomplishments than Hannah? ... Anyway, it's a beautiful home, gardens are enjoyable.
Jen B. — Google review
We did the Highlights tour. Very informative. Our guide, Katrina, led a well-paced tour. We enjoyed walking the beautiful grounds of Monticello on our own. Not great for little kids as there’s nothing for them to do. If they have any knowledge of US History, it’s worth it.
Brian Quinlan — Google review
Highly recommended - to include booking your house tour in advance if possible, to reserve the slot that you want.
We found the 'behind the scenes' house tour to be worth the additional money, to include a smaller group and a lot more time in the house. This tour requires you to ascend and descend a pretty steep and narrow staircase.
Free public WiFi by the lower visitor center and the upper house itself. Water refill stations also available by the water fountains.
If you want to do the house tour plus the garden and slavery guided tours, it may be advantageous to pack or plan to eat at the onsite cafe.
The slavery tour was very informative - the stories about the persons that lived here were moving.
Ryan Smith — Google review
It was a great tour. Our guide Don was amazing. Every encounter with the workers was nice except for the lady driving the shuttle and the lady checking tickets to get on the bus.
It’s a must see when you are in Charlottesville. The house had incredible views to the blue ridge mountains and nearby fields. I recommend a guided tour because they share interesting stories of the family and items in the house.
Leyla Norris — Google review
We had an awesome visit to Monticello. Our docent Brianna was great! I remember going as a kid. We had the grounds and home tour tickets but there is also an upgrade to visit the top floor and dome room. Plan to spend 3-4 hours for your visit. They have a couple of places to catch a bit to eat. We had a great time!
Macky Kyle — Google review
Did not realize Monticello had so much to see on the tour. You see history come to life with Jefferson’s speech. There is still much to see if you do not take the house tour. One special feature that helped my daughter get around better, was there free wheelchair access. Be prepared to spend a few hours and wear comfortable shoes.
Cassandra Dunnings — Google review
Helpful to plan out your day before visiting.
Monticello was the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson, a Founding Father and the third president of the United States. He began designing Monticello after inheriting land from his father at age 14.
The house was built in stages over a period of 40 years, and it is a blend of neoclassical, Palladian, and Jeffersonian architectural styles.
Monticello is known for its octagonal dome, which was the first of its kind in the United States.
The house is also home to a number of innovative features, such as a dumbwaiter, a central heating system, and a water closet.
Monticello was not just a residence, but also a working plantation. Jefferson owned over 130 slaves, who worked the land, tended the gardens, and cared for the house.
After Jefferson's death, Monticello was passed down to his daughter, Martha Jefferson Randolph. She sold the property in 1831, and it changed hands several times before being purchased by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation in 1923.
The Thomas Jefferson Foundation has restored Monticello to its original condition, and it is now a popular tourist destination.
Here are some other cool facts about Monticello:
The house is made of red brick, which was brought from England.
The gardens at Monticello are home to over 6,000 different plants.
Jefferson designed his own furniture for Monticello, and he also made many of the tools used to build the house.
Monticello was the first home in the United States to have electricity.
The house is still equipped with its original dumbwaiter, central heating system, and water closet.
I hope you find these facts about Monticello interesting!
Taylor B — Google review
Such a marvelous piece of our history warts and all. By now everyone knows Jefferson owned slaves and fathered children with one of his house keepers/nannies. He was a very complex man and very intelligent. I could go on for several pages about him and his estate. The tour was excellent and the gentleman who is on the site who portrays Jefferson was excellent. I wish there was someone like that at Mt. Vernon to portray Washington. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about my experience here. Our tour guide was excellent. She was personable and very knowledgeable. You can tour all of the grounds, the mansion and basement which was very informative and interesting. There are slave quarters and shops so you get a real feel for what it was back then. The large Jefferson burial area was also interesting to view. A very peaceful serene setting not too far from the mansion.
There is a great visitor’s center and museum and I highly recommend seeing both along with a short film before you take the shuttle up to the mansion. I learned how intelligent, inquisitive and inventive Jefferson was. I highly recommend reading a biography of Jefferson before you visit. It will bring the entire experience to life.
Jack Sullivan — Google review
It's worth the cost to get in. Went in the fall, and there were still plenty of tours and things to see. Our tour guide was amazing, well versed, and knowledgeable on everything from the building of the home to the darker history of Jefferson's story. He made Jefferson out as human and a product of his time and not a hero and mythical being.
I am glad to know that although there are a few original pieces, the museum uses replicas as well.
Visit the exhibits near the visitor center where you park for a look at how the house was built, Jefferson's life, and the family trees of his decedents, including Sally Hemmings children.
Parking was easy, and the shuttle service made the trip easier for our party.
Colleen Keegan — Google review
Monticello is a wonderful plantation to visit, especially so when the weather is cooperative. The grounds are incredibly well taken care of and you can learn a bit of what life was like by walking around and exploring the various buildings. I love that the gardens are maintained and that the food isn't wasted from them.
I highly recommend doing the guided house tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable of Jefferson's life and Monticello through it's years. There are various other tours you can do, but unfortunately I only had time for the one. There's a lot to learn here outside of what you learn in a grade school history class.
If you have any interest in history, and are around Charlottesville, I suggest making a stop here!
Sara O — Google review
First time I have been when there were guided tours. Although the 45 minute tour was very informative, it requires the whole group to be in one room together with the doors closed so the other tour in the next room can not be heard. The rooms here are small and our group was too big to fit comfortably in the rooms. There is a strick no touching or leaning on anything at all policy which made the tight quarters feel even tighter. Tour sizes need to be smaller or maybe our day was just really busy, but I liked it better when we could do self guided tours. I would not recommend this tour for small children. The rooms are just too small with too much stuff.
But for history and architecture nerds, it is an amazing and interesting home. Don't miss the museum, it has some great displays that show how he modified and expanded the house over the years. And they have a model of his final renovation that was never completed.
Beth McK — Google review
So so pretty and such a gorgeous property. I never knew how much history really was underneath this property until this week and I’m so very glad I got to visit and have the opportunity to become educated. Our tour guide was amazing and the tickets were very well worth it, there are many attractions (that do cost) to walk through which is super cool.
L Nobles — Google review
Monticello offers a step back in time to learn about the history of one of the forefathers of this country. The tour of the home is pleasant and the tour guides are knowledgeable. There are also multiple other tours of the grounds that provide a great historical perspective of the land and of Jefferson. There is even a Thomas Jefferson character that is found on certain days and times. If you get the chance, stop by to see him. He plays the role with great accuracy and the interaction with him is very memorable.
Clint Harding — Google review
I just finished reading the 1 star comments. Most of them are about the pricey tickets. 😱😱
The guided tour ticket is $42, and the ground tour ticket is $22.
I bought the guided tour ticket today, 01/20/2024. It was a 45 minutes with one tour guide, his name is Jim. He is a wonderful and knowledgeable tour guide. 👍👍👍
Is it worth it to pay $42 dollars and see the third president's house? Well, if you think 45 minutes is too short, you can spend more time exploring the wine cellar, kitchen, and the garden.
I would suggest do some homework before you go. It is because the tour guide was a little bit fast taking before you can even understand the whole story.😅😅😅😅
However, I do have one feedback which I promised the staff I would write to the owner.
It is 26 degrees today with 19 miles per hour wind speed. All of the staffs who worked outdoors today were all shivering 🥶🥶🥶🥶🥶.
Is it possible to provide the outdoor propane heater for their health issue concern? ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Project Entry — Google review
Gorgeous views from atop the mountain in all directions. Interesting and well-presented history, giving insight to Jefferson and the lives of those that lived at Monticello, including the enslaved people. The house and ground are remarkable, and the tours are very well done.
Kent 19 — Google review
This was well worth seeing. I did the highlights tour and felt for me, that was plenty. However there is a longer more in-depth tour that also would have been interesting.. Our guide Rogan was spectacular! He explained the history well and encouraged questions. I particularly liked how he addressed the difficult subject of slavery and Thomas Jefferson’s involvement. After the house tour there is an option to tour the slave quarters. Yet again, I was impressed how our guide Louie handled the delicate subject and encouraged thought.
The entire staff from check in to the guides did a tremendous job!
Thank you!
Jeff Pilgrim — Google review
An excellent place to visit. The tours are very professionally executed. The grounds and buildings are fabulous. The tour guides are very well informed and learned in history and engage you during your tour.
Mark Kastner — Google review
Beautiful and historic grounds and you get very good views of the Virginian countryside. The tickets are pretty expensive for adults, however. The grounds are not as big as one would expect but pretty nice nevertheless. I would recommend to visit here if you are in Charlottesville because there is not much else to do
E M — Google review
Amazing place to spend a few hours! They do have a shuttle to carry everyone from the house to the burial site and back. You can always walk if you choose to.
Victoria — Google review
4.7
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4.5
(7235)
1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA
The Luray Caverns, located in Virginia, are one of the most well-known and largest caverns on the East Coast of the United States. These vast underground tunnels have been forming for millions of years and showcase stunning natural wonders such as colossal stone formations, crystal clear pools, glistening draperies, and soaring stone columns. Visitors can tour the caverns and marvel at 140-ft. natural columns, colorful stalactites, and brick walkways.
This cavern is truly one of the.most spectacular natural wonders I have seen in my life. The history of how this cave was found by accident about 150 years ago is amazing. The tour of the cavern was well planned and thought out and responsibly preserved. The tour takes about an hour to walk and a very good camera is highly recommended.
I suggest visiting during the off peak season so that you feel rushed through the cave.
There is a small Cafe, a gift shop and a few other shops.
I highly recommend this park to those who enjoy nature and for those who want to experience a once in a lifetime thrill.
Pictures do not do this cave justice.
It must seen in person to appreciate the beauty and amazement of this place.
Jaime Brownell — Google review
I heard from someone working at the front royal visitor's center that Luray caverns was the best in the area. It was a good 45 minute drive but it definitely did not disappoint! It was beautiful!!
We went on a Monday evening and it was empty. They took our photos at the entrance and ended up being really cute souvenirs.
The caverns themselves were really big. We took our time and read through all 19 stops on the tour (they had self guided tours with a brochure) I liked that we were able to go at our own pace and be able to take photos/ videos without other people photo bombing. There were pretty little lakes and huge formations. Great trip!
Laura Saatsoglou — Google review
A must see! Superbly arranged, roomy for those who may suffer from claustrophobia. Nearly all paths are brick layer and the path is very easy going. There is no climbing or such. Tour is self guided and takes about an hour. Plenty of parking. There is a very nice antique car collection, which is included on the $30.00 entry fee. Highly recommended!
Peter Papagiannakis — Google review
It's no doubt a neat trip for visiting a cave but the company is letting it slide. In the past ten years, the price has gone up and the tours are no longer guided. We visited today and it was a near free-for-all in the cave. A lot of people were touching the rock formations and leaving trash in the cavern. At this rate, considering how delicate the caves are, I wouldn't be surprised if it were eventually closed off to the public.
Nicholas H — Google review
The off season is the best time to visit. Absolutely no lines, many times we were the only ones in an area. The staff was knowledgeable and very friendly. Off season lol. The caves are incredible and stunning. The fun thing is they actually have a pretty cool car selection which we all enjoyed. Do yourself a favor and check it out.
Steve Thomas — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous and worth the trip from Baltimore (and the ticket price). We got permission to go backward through the caverns and it was nice because it made it less crowded. I do imagine that they’ll not allow it anymore, though, because I could tell a few of them were slightly annoyed by it. Don’t ask about it and definitely don’t reference this post.
Tyler Stewart — Google review
The most beautiful and largest cave in the East coast you must see! It would take about an hour to walk through the cave but we really enjoyed every moment of it! Although it was crowded, it’s still plenty rooms and opportunities for you to taking pictures! Great place!
Kaylie Craig — Google review
Great way to easily experience the caverns! The self-guided tour is great, it allows you to stop and enjoy the quiet and beauty of each area. There are useful details about the formations in a guide pamphlet which is super helpful to understand everything. Added on the maze to the experience, it was so fun and worth the extra price. The whole experience was a lot of fun for all ages.
Elizabeth Hadden — Google review
Visited on a Thursday afternoon and it was decently crowded. My family of 3 was able to walk through the caverns in about an hour and it was spectacular. It is self-guided but you can pay for a guided tour. You are given a pamphlet with information as you walk through the caverns. Although it is definitely a tourist-y spot, I highly recommend checking this incredible place out as it is one of the great wonders of the east coast!
Brianna Ridenour — Google review
I have visited caves all around the world- Japan, Europe, Korea etc. This was by FAR the most breathtaking experience. The caverns were other-worldly. You MUST visit if you are close by! If you have kids, the caverns are pretty stroller (small stroller) friendly. Also, the crowds here aren’t bad at all, you have plenty of space to enjoy the trail.
Eleanore B. — Google review
We enjoyed this very much. We stayed up at big meadows campground during a very misty week so this was a nice break. The path is all one level, no steps. The only improvement I would like is the ability to get the headphones again or a guided tour. The pamphlet was helpful but we like to interact with tour guides make sure you check for discounts
Deanna Lewis — Google review
It was an amazing experience. It was my first time in a cavern, so it was incredible to me. The mirror caves were absolutely beautiful. It was a rainy day, so we got to see the water filtering inside the cave. The guides were very helpful. We got to hear the organ in the cathedral.
Ana Cruz — Google review
Having heard that these were the best caverns to visit in Virginia, I was eager to see them.
On arrival the place was really busy, but we had not trouble parking in the parking lot.
Entry was reasonably priced and after walking through the gift shop we headed to the caverns.
Before you enter you have to have your photo taken so they can try and sell it to you on your way out.
The caves are amazing to look at, and there are plenty of opportunities to take photos. The caverns are well lit but I do feel that missed a trick by not using coloured lighting.
My only gripe would be the crowds. Lots of people just stopping and not letting people past. This caused a back log many times.
About halfway round there are only so many rock formations you can look at before they all start to look alike.
The route took about 1hr. Once out you walk back through the gift shop.
There are other attractions available included in the price, but we were too hot and tired to experience them.
Andy Murfet — Google review
Really cool caverns with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formations. There was also a very small underground lake that reflected the stalactites like a mirror. The temperature is cool (light jacket should be fine), can be slightly drippy if raining outside. Takes about 1 hr average to stroll leisurely and enjoy the view. The restroom is only available at the main building so make sure you empty your bladder before heading into the cavern. There are also other attractions in the complex such as the toy station, museum, etc. Parking was relatively easy, also free. All in all, certainly worth the ticket price.
Mario Christianto — Google review
Stunning- Nature’s magic at play. Great for families, kids or even a romantic get away. Lots to do other than just the Caverns. Plan ahead if you want to explore more than just the caverns and do other things like the Garden Maze , shopping etc.
Definately bring your camera. The caves have a beautiful ‘Mirror lake’. Magical!!!
Muhnoo Sophia Jain — Google review
Went at the end of our spring break and it was really fun! It’s about 60-90 min to walk all the way through, depending on how long you stop for photos or listen to the organ. Many amazing sights and some parts of the caves are 7 million years old! Very interesting history and would recommend grabbing info pamphlet before you go through so you can follow along what each item is (they’re numbered). Tickets also include free admission to the toy museum and train/car museum next door. Really neat to see more historic items.
Lydia Kennedy — Google review
This place was really great. I checked previous pictures and had thought I would find something a bit different, for example: the wishing well; I thought it was bigger than what actually is (small) also, thought there was more water in it, but nope. I still enjoyed the place and had a great time. I went on Sunday and it was full of people, making it hard to take some pics but not a big deal either. No steps inside, it took a bit more than 1hr but did not feel it, I didn’t get tired either. I was ready to use a sweater inside but no need in my case. Restrooms are 8/10. Whenever you enter or exit you have to go through the shop they have, I didn’t like it because it was crowded inside the shop. Staff was friendly. Entry was 32USD per person.
Elena N — Google review
Beautiful. Pictures can not do it justice. My girlfriend and I made a detour on our trip home from PA to NC to see this place. We were amazed. I have hundreds of pictures/videos and they all look amazing. Put it on your bucket list. Must see.
Joshua Chapman — Google review
We had the best time here. I took my father and my grandson (who is 4) and my dad loved the ramp that was added from the last time he was here many years ago and my grandson practically skipped the entire time being in awe of everything to see.
We lucked out and didn't realize the anniversary of the caverns being discovered was the same weekend we chose to go and they had lit hundreds of candles which only added to the ambiance.
It was also nice and cool given the 90+ it was outside.
A Natachia TNT — Google review
Amazing experience, very beautiful cave and rock formations. The tours are self guided. However when your walking through, their will be families stopping and taking pictures, which holds up others that want to go bye. My experience there was an allot of kids running around, which annoyed others. But didn’t annoy me. I had a great time. Would definitely go back.
Morii — Google review
the caverns were amazing to see, easy to walk, we were there when they first opened mid weekday in winter and it was not crowded. It took about an hour and half total with a leisurely stroll. Kids really enjoyed seeing the different formations. There is a very large parking lot and was mostly empty when we went. By the time we got done the lot was about1/4 full.
James Hawthorne — Google review
Absolutely beautiful!! We really enjoyed the self guided tour. It's definitely worth the trip!! We visited from Michigan over New Years weekend. It wasn't terribly busy. We spent a few hours there between the caves, village, and museums. The ticket price is worth it for sure. You get to see and learn a lot. Our only issue was with people themselves. For some reason, people just can't seem to listen and follow rules, especially in the caves. It was sad to see so many people being disrespectful and touching the formations :(
Ashley Borgert — Google review
I was here in 2019 and now in 2024. I'm very excited. This is the best place. It’s safe to walk here and not be afraid that you will slip and fall, like in another cave that we were not far from this one. There is a very large cave here and there is something to see all the time. I regretted that we went to another cave because this cave is the best, the most beautiful, the most. I really liked it, thank you to the people who work there for your work. It's so good here that you don't want to leave. Photos can't convey how beautiful it is there.
Marina Komarova — Google review
Cool place to walk around if you enjoy caves. Did have an experience with one of the workers as we walked up on a private tour and we weren’t aware of it and just stood there being polite letting him finish talking only for him to rudely say anyone not part of the tour move along. I just think there was a better way to say it as we had no clue that’s what it was.
Victoria — Google review
Decided to head out to the caverns with the family. We have been to several caverns all over the world and this one was really good. The tour was good, the path was wheelchair friendly, the formations were amazing. The cavern organ performances were a bit of a let down. The car museum was okay but it was included in the price of the ticket. The biggest shock was the price at $34 a person. This is quite expensive. The cavern tour took us about 2 hours. There was plenty of parking.
Johnathon Edwards — Google review
What an experience!
This place is truly out of this world. The tickets included the Luray Caverns Self-Guided Tour, the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction. There's also garden maze, rope adventure park and gem sluice for additional price.
I wish we had more time to explore, so we hope to be back soon.
Lyudmila Kennedy — Google review
It's a very nice vacation destination to see the beauty of another side of the world. Luray caverns is very good experience, and nice to see the under earth beauty. The mirror image beauty is awesome. Nice maintenance inside caverns. Enjoyed the trip and Skyline drive as well.
Manikandan Narayanan — Google review
It was my revisit after 28 years. Back then it was not as nice as now. Cavern was renovated during 2017 ~ 2019 and it looks much nicer and corridor was nicely renovated. My kids loved the cavern and it is must visit place when you have kids. It takes little less than 1 and half hours to complete the tour and loved it. Ticket price is $34 for adult and $17 for kids(6-12), Free for under age 6
Montpelier, the former home of President James Madison, is a historical landmark situated on an extensive estate containing his tomb. Despite being overshadowed by Thomas Jefferson's fame in the area, visitors will find Montpelier to be a remarkable property located 25 miles north-east of Charlottesville. Madison was an intellectual and introverted individual who focused on his studies and played a significant role in drafting the Constitution.
Unfortunately, the house wasn't open yet (3/5/22); it opens next week. I happened to be in the area for something else but saw the signs so I decided to stop by for a tour. My tour guide was Zeb G. and he was AMAZING!!!!! Very knowledgeable and kind. There was still much to see around the property that made the tour worthwhile even without being able to go inside the house. I'm sure if there are other tour guides there, they're fantastic but whenever I go back for the house tour, I'll be looking for Zeb - highly recommend him!
Tiffany Connelly — Google review
I decided to take a solo trip to visit Montpelier because I wanted to have as much time as I wanted to explore. I could not have asked for a better tour or day to enjoy learning and exploring. My tour guide was so knowledgeable and I took a lot of good notes to share with my students.
I loved walking the gardens and grounds as well.
Their new exhibits “mere distinction of color” are also wonderful. I love their emphasis on valuing all people that lived here, not just James Madison.
Abbey Welch — Google review
We only visited the grounds (which are huge) and the slavery exhibition. Fairly priced at $13pp. We didn’t see a soul in the woodlands. During a hot summer’s day, a stroll in Montpelier would be fantastic. Such a pleasure to see a walled garden as well. The flowers were beautiful and the gardener clearly loves his work. For a visit of the house itself, advanced booking is very recommended. I would suggest a 2-3 hour minimum to get the most out of the site.
Johan Vermant — Google review
While the tour is a bit pricey, for us it was well worth it. The guide was first class with knowledge and interaction with the group of 11 people. We skipped the basement exhibits to have time to see the cemetery before closing.
Ed — Google review
Great guide in Peter. Very knowledgeable. So much history. I learned a lot. They didn't sugar coat the truth of slavery. Definitely recommend. Take your time and watch the videos in the downstairs of the main house. Also nice video in visitors center.
Jim Horrocks — Google review
Very well maintained.
Nice gift shop and a small cafeteria.
The staff was very helpful and knowledgeable.
Watched a short video in the gift shop, then
toured the grounds and house.
The tour does cost money, but was well worth the price.
The tour guide was wonderful.
Walked through the small “museum,” and to the cemeteries separately.
It was well worth the trip.
Definitely learned a lot about Madison and his family.
Jim Wojciechowski — Google review
Great piece of American history. Our tour was very informative and took us throughout the house. My only complaint is that their is no museum that talks about Madison's life.
Jack Lansford — Google review
It was a wonderful and interesting tour. I
They have done a fantastic job restoring the house and adding context to the story. I definitely recommend one of their guided tours.
C W (Charlie Whiskey) — Google review
Really well managed. We got the general tour, which was fantastic- our tour guide was engaging and very knowledgeable. The pace was leisurely and many of the exhibits were self guided, so we were able to learn about things at our pace. I really enjoyed this.
Jjlafa — Google review
Montpelier has been on my list and I had a really enjoyable time visiting. I went on a Sunday afternoon in early March. I did the house tour which included the property pass. We really didn’t get into too many rooms in the house but it was a great experience. I’m not 100% convinced that James Madison wasn’t a Freemason but that’s just my feeling. The tour guides were excellent storytellers and the people at the ticket area were very helpful! I would have liked to have more time to tour the outdoors areas but that’s my own fault for not getting there earlier. Lots to see and learn, definitely worth the trip.
Miss Val — Google review
Excellent tour with Kathleen, our tour guide. We all agreed it was better than Monticello. She did an amazing job of giving a history lesson while putting things in context of the times and Madison's life. We've been to Mount Vernon, Williamsburg, and Monticello, and this tour was our favorite. It lasted about an hour and she also did a great job of talking about the impact of the enslaved people on Madison's life and ability to focus on politics, the Constitution, and higher thinking.
Highly recommend for families and a great history lesson.
Heidi Pepin — Google review
I’ve visited Montpelier multiple times with friends and family. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about Virginia, American history, and the writing of our constitution. The museum is great for a short visit - tours of the house take around an hour. Or you could spend all day here, visiting the cemeteries, the dependencies, the exhibits outside of the main house tour, and even walking miles of hiking trails! The work that has been done to the property is extensive and everything is beautifully maintained. The guides and staff are all very friendly and knowledgeable.
Megan Ladd — Google review
I had the pleasure of doing a President's Day tour with Helen - she made the tour beyond informative and fascinating!! 100% recommend spending at least 2 hours for the grounds and guided tour.
Desiree Carey — Google review
Our tour guide was well versed on James Madison, and his legislative history. Very informative tour including discussion on the restoration of the mansion. The visitor center had a nice shop. The DuPont family was a former owner of Montpelier. There was a small museum adjacent to the visitor center on the DuPont family's equestrian pursuits including a racetrack.
Robert Carrara — Google review
I really enjoyed visiting Montpelier as I learned a lot while taking the tour as it’s definitely worth it! The tour guide is very knowledgeable and helpful with any questions! The property is absolutely beautiful! I will definitely come back to visit again in the future! I highly recommend it!
Daniel Duran — Google review
We went to Montpelier and Monticello on the same day. I slightly preferred Montpelier and it is 100% because of our amazing tour guide, Ms. Kemp. She was outstanding. Her knowledge of Madison was deep. Her appreciation for the complexity of sharing his life in a time when slavery was so prevalent was admirable. She didn’t sugar coat things and this made the whole experience richer for me.
Stacey Wells — Google review
Open house day. Very friendly guidance throughout the building. Beautiful views of the Blue Ridge mountains
Anthony Gilbert Wells — Google review
What a beautiful place to visit! Bring your hiking shoes as there are gorgeous hiking trails all along the property. You can purchase the mansion tour only or both the grounds and mansion tour. Both are self guided which makes it even better! I will be going back! I only got some outside photos this time, but will be getting more of inside the mansion next time!
Shanna Whitworth — Google review
Where in the world do my reviews go? I reviewed this yesterday but yet it shows up here asking me about it. Blake was our tour guide and he was so very informative. The tour wouldn't have been nearly as good without him giving us all the tidbits. Things in the house are from that time that they were there. Many other things are from the period. The carpet in the dining room is the exact same carpet pattern they had. Ditto the wallpaper. It was pretty gaudy.
My estimation of Dolly Madison is in the pits now. She was a frivolous woman who didn't honor her husband's dying wishes and was a spendthrift.
We went when winter was just beginning. It was cold. We went out on the grounds and I bet the garden, when they had it, was just brimming with beauty and veggies. The gentlemen there were extremely nice.
We went for the 2:00 tour, and it was an hour long. My suggestion is go for an earlier tour because 2:00 takes up the whole day.
The gift shop has some of the most divine measuring spoons I've ever seen in my life. But at $25 it was a bit pricey for me.
They would get many many more people coming in if they drop the price from $36 to $20.
Yes yes, they say that they need the money. And it takes a lot of money for the upkeep. I'm sure it does, but so many more people would come see this place if it wasn't so expensive.
It would also be good to have golf carts for people that can't walk as far as it is from the gift shop. It's an 8-minute walk up a slight hill.
When you come out of the tour it's in the back of the house and it is quite a hike to get back to the parking lot.
Inside of the house there are a few chairs here and there to sit in. For me with plantar fasciitis at the time, it was helpful. But I had already been standing and walking for 40 minutes before then.
If you have any sort of foot/back problem I would think twice before going. It's a _lot_ of standing & walking.
While the information given was interesting, as were some of the items, I don't think the house is worth $36. We got in free on Veterans day.
Janine MJoi — Google review
Very educational. Electric charging on site. Beautiful trails, garden and grounds.
Roni Dinkes — Google review
4.7
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4.5
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11350 Constitution Hwy, Montpelier Station, VA 22957, USA
Maymont is a 19th century estate located in Richmond, Virginia which is open to the public for tours and events. The estate features beautiful gardens and a wildlife center which hosts animals found in nearby rivers and bay.
Wow, such a nice day outing. This botanical garden is free to enter, has farm animals, several gardens, and much more. Saw ton of people taking wedding/senior pictures and having picnics. We arrived at 3pm on a Friday and the parking lot was packed but we were able to find the last one. I do believe there is street parking though. There are also public restrooms here. It's a hugh place so although there were a lot of people, we walked around freely without feeling crowded. If you enjoy botanical gardens, you'll be glad you check out this place.
Around the World — Google review
Beautiful piece of history. I visited the mansion with family based on a recommendation and I enjoyed my visit. The house itself is very dark and moody, but in a very historical way. Definitely recommend making a visit! Especially to see the beautiful Tiffany glass, it’s the highlight of the home.
Ismaeli Rodriguez — Google review
The staff were genuinely lovely and happy to chat, the grounds were wide-ranging, extensive and easy to get lost in and the house itself was both interesting and well-explained by the audio guide which very, very delicately tried to thread the needle between telling you the history of the house and exquisitely dancing around some of the details of the history of the house, but that's kind of par for the course in this sort of place. Definitely worth visiting if you should happen to be in or around Richmond and looking for a bit of a wander in the open.
Just don't trust the guidebook map, because I swear that thing was laughing at me every time I got turned around. ^_^
Paul — Google review
Maymont is just beautiful- we went in April and everything was in bloom. The grounds are extensive, so plan on a lot of walking as well as taking some steep steps to reach the lower river area which is a perfect picnic spot. Great place for kids too as they’ll enjoy seeing the animals and having numerous fields to explore. Can’t wait to go back!
ashleigh c — Google review
This is a 100 acre estate run by the Maymont Foundation and greatly supported by visitor donations. This is a grand historical estate with plenty of activities to do. You will burn calories just from walking around this rocky hillside park. The park is open to the public, but suggests a $5 donation upon entry. There are other charged options like the Mansion Tour. The grounds are well maintained and family friendly. Picnics are strongly encouraged. There is an Italian garden, a Japanese garden, an aviary, a petting farm, the Mayont Mansion (which was closed for the season)and a learning center (which was closed for the season). I missed season opening by a few days. At this time, a few flowers like daffodils are blooming. None of the fountains are up and running when i visited. I am sure this park is amazing more into spring. You can easily spend a whole day here. Well worth the stop.
John Hannan — Google review
I wish the ponds were clean and at least the ponds have water in the Japanese garden and Italian garden. It was cool to see wildlife freely roaming. Also no bathrooms or benches near the Japanese gardens. Both the waterfall and cascade had no water which was a missed opportunity.
Michael Allen — Google review
It was beautiful!! It's not very handicap friendly, but I tried to take on the garden. *The garden won. 🤫 I let the girls go. They really enjoyed the beauty of the place. Got a few pictures. It was super nice and cool in the shade. The model was very professional and vibrant!! Our model is wearing a flowing dress and her favorite shoes. I definitely suggest wearing sneakers... and an oxygen tank. A really nice guy in a golf cart gave me a ride back to the entrance because I'm old and fat. I DIDN'T DIE!! I did a lot of praying to make it back to my car. Here's some pictures and my breathtaking model!! Enjoy! I know this review is late because we went on a Saturday. I need time and life-support to recover. They had live music, but that didn't start until 6 pm, and we live in Norfolk!! I'm not driving at night! Trees, sasquatch, and probably aliens come out at night!! Don't act like trees are innocent!! I'll end my rant here. 10 out of 10 will let my husband take the kids back. If I have to go, I'm waiting in the car or near the entrance. GO WILD!
Tisha Foster — Google review
I had a great time visiting Maymont! I recommend doing the audio tour, because the information provided really enhances the experience of walking through the mansion and gardens.
The Italian and Japanese gardens are also worth checking out! FYI, there will be a lot of walking down stairs and down hill to get to the Japanese garden, so plan accordingly if you're still recovering from leg day.
Sohna Kunnath — Google review
Great place to take your kids after school during the week. Great walking views even if you don't interact with animals. Also, a great place for a date. We enjoy Glow Garden in the fall season the best.
Stephanie Alston — Google review
This was a beautiful park that is free and open to the public. Certain things do cost money on a per diem basis but to explore the park, walk through the various gardens, listen to music, or participate in the activities hosted by the park are all free. The park is quite large so make sure you bring comfortable clothes, shoes, and water. There were several ideal places for an intimate or small family picnic too. Parking was free where we were, but limited so street parking may be needed. I did not see anyone on bikes or scooters so I am not sure if these things are prohibited or not.
Trent Heck — Google review
This is one of my favorite parks in the country and I've traveled a lot. I really love this place, I cannot stress this enough. There are tons of terrain options if you like a moderate workout.
Wildlife is abundant and easy to observe, most of them will not run away from you in my experience. The park is very large and is a good hangout or picnic spot. Entry is free with a suggested entry price of $5 at the gate. Please donate to keep this park looking great 👍
Keenan — Google review
We spent about $32.00 to walk through the living creature center and the mansion. ($8.00 per adult )… I would totally recommend the mansion was a good hour and half of our time…. The park is so huge and beautiful we petted at the petting zoo. Will return to see all we missed last adventure.
Brionna Nicholson — Google review
This is easily a must see spot when in Richmond. It’s kid friendly, family friendly, a great place for date and even for book reading! If I went to vcu this would easily be my study place. So much to see and explore here. The farm land is so great for kiddos, they get to feed the furry animals. The Japanese garden is a must see too, with ponds and lily pads and beautiful foliage. If you want to see vibrant flowers head to the Italian garden. There is so much photo ops here! The ultimate plus is this place is free.
Tia Delay — Google review
The Maymont Garden Glow is beautiful! The lights along the trails are just gorgeous. Food trucks, hot chocolate, and fire pit areas are so good and cozy. Cute things for kids to do and the carriage house was open to view various types of carriages from throughout history.
Sonya Sumpter — Google review
This is such a lovely place to go. It was so peaceful to walk thru the different gardens. The house wasn't open, as you have to schedule a tour. But it was still very nice and a lot to see for free.
Nicole Fitzpatrick — Google review
I love this place, I usually go with my grandson he gets to run and climb the trees like we see others doing. There's animals, the Japanese, and Italian gardens to wonder thru, then we find our favorite tree and spread out a blanket, and enjoy a picnic while listening to some music. This will be our forever place to visit. Donations are accepted.
Karen J — Google review
Always a favorite. Walks(exercise) sight seeing, animal sights. If you are craving the zoo, come here, the take donations but it's free. You do have to pay for the indoor aquarium but it's worth it to me. Feed the animals in the children's farm or just walk around and spot the animals along the trails. Fun fr everyone. Sometimes they have vendors here.
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a highly respected art museum situated in Richmond, Virginia. With an extensive collection of artwork from around the world, the VMFA strives to educate and enrich the lives of its patrons through various programming and outreach initiatives.
An absolutely amazing experience. It was raining so we couldn't enjoy the outdoors. It was so much to see. I would have to come back. Artwork and collections are beautiful. Definitely coming back!! A nice place for a date. Food served for a price the reflect the cost for buying from a museum.
Atiyah A — Google review
100% recommend coming to this art museum! It is FREE and only costs $6 to park. What I like most about this museum is that there is an exhibit for everyone! Everything from Egyptian tombs to traditional paintings to contemporary art and even stunning jewelry and furniture. There is EVERYTHING here! I visited in January and had a fantastic time. I would recommend this place to anyone and plan to bring friends back. This is 100% the best art museum I’ve ever been to. I think it’s even better than the one in D.C. (way less crowded too). There are also tons of clean restrooms and a nice gift shop. You could easily spend 5+ hours here - it’s a spectacular museum.
(10th time trying to post this review 🙄)
Victoria O'Tool — Google review
Amazing museum! Very family friendly and it has a surprising amount of art(50k pieces!). We spent a few hours there and still didn't see all of the art. Admission is free, but I would have paid to visit this place. There are Faberge eggs there! Definitely a must visit if you're in Richmond!
Clay Lanford — Google review
I've been going to the VMFA for 35 years and watching it grow has been kind of incredible. While it has had over the years some interesting and not so interesting shows that cost money to see, it's their permanent collections that really impress. We went on a recent Saturday and it was not crowded at all. We spent 2 hours looking and only got through the second floor in that time. The VMFA has a very varied collection, fine art of all periods, ancient antiquities, an elaborate silver collection, Faberge eggs and frames, Asian and African art, furniture, jewelry and all types of Tiffany pieces and art glass. You are allowed to photograph but no flash. It was free to get in but you need tickets to see some temporary exhibits that are visiting. This is the only place it seems lacking, most of these shows are of limited interest and not anywhere near as impressive as their permanent items. We had no problem with any staff. It would be nice if people visiting a museum knew had to act in public though. Talking loud, laughing, carrying on like they were at a mall and not a museum. Still the place is big enough that you can make the effort to avoid those people. The area around the museum is also very beautiful.
James Hampton-Snow — Google review
Museum has something for everyone. Great way to spend a day in downtown Richmond. The Faberge section was my favorite but also enjoyed the Egyptian items. Fiance is more into art and to see Picasso and Renoit in person is amazing. Gift shop has a lot of age different items to choose from, and Cafe for the munchies so you don't have to leave too soon. Plan to spend about 3 hours if you really want to appreciate it all. Cameras are allowed just without flash. Museum is free but tickets are needed for additional area such as the Samurai armor.
j Tolley — Google review
Great place to attend. New art. I love art. Art is part of me. If it's part of you, then visit this place. You won't regret it. I promise.
Derek Lewis — Google review
Impressive museum with collections from various cultures/time periods including Ancient Greek/Roman, African, American, Native American, European, and East/South Asian. However, what made this museum a little more special for me was the Art Deco/Nouveau section which is rarely part of the main galleries of the art museums.
General admission is FREE which is great as you can really take your time and see part of the museum and then come back at another time to see the rest.
In addition to the permanent collections they also do have ongoing exhibitions (some of them requires you to buy tickets).
Sculpture garden is nice to take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee or have a bite at a nice day.
Inside the museum masks are optional.
Free street parking nearby or $6 museum parking.
Overall an excellent experience - thanks everyone contributing the smooth operation of this museum, your work is really appreciated!
Burcu — Google review
I am New to Richmond. I just moved here from New York. The Virginia museum of fine arts was my first outing as a resident. It was amazing. There is no way to cover it all in one day or even two! There is so much to see. It has so much to offer! I will be going back!
Michelle Ratner — Google review
This is a beautiful contemporary art museum. It felt very calming and peaceful as we walked through the galleries. Beautiful artwork and furniture collections from different time periods. Would love to visit again!
Kerri Ayala — Google review
This is one of my favorite museums (and I grew up going to the Smithsonian Museums all the time)! I always visit the Faberge exhibit, it is exquisite! The museum also allows and encourages photography, so have fun taking photos!
There is also a nice restaurant and cafe if you need food or a pick-me up. And there's plenty of seating in the cafe, but also outside. The grounds of the museum are also worth visiting on their own. There were plenty of people lounging in the grass, working on their laptops in the shade, etc... It looks like the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Richmond.
Sohna Kunnath — Google review
So much more exciting than I expected! Lots of exhibits, many of which we didn’t get to. Free admission besides the specialty display downstairs. Fine art displays feature world renowned artists and their works. There’s a wide array of sculptures, artifacts, and paintings.
Maryam Shulgan — Google review
The VMFA is very nice museum , it takes about 3 hours to just look around. Found several my favorite artists artwork. They are amazing! The food there was also great!
HF Clara — Google review
Great place to come for some art! Beautiful old building to walk around in and explore all the wings with different types of art. Plus they usually have a special exhibit going on which is always worth checking out. Nice little cafe with some good coffee, various drinks and snacks to eat. The outside patio, garden and fountains on the grounds are great to sit around and relax in. They have a jazz night and various events that bring in the crowds which is a good time if you are looking for something to do. And as you can see from the pictures sometimes you can catch a majestic sunset here.
TheLeakingGenius — Google review
Highly recommend this art museum. To start off, it’s FREE, all I had to pay for was parking which was $5. Definitely worth it. They have such a wide variety of different types of art from all over the world and different time periods. My favorite piece of art was the Fabergé eggs. Really cool to see the different jewels they used to make them.
Mike T — Google review
I love the VMFA. With over 500,000 square feet of exhibition space on a thirteen acre campus, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has so much to offer. Whether your interest is ancient Egyptian art, Cubist paintings or Russian jewelry, this museum has something for everyone.
There’s a cafe on the main level with outdoor seating that looks out over a reflection pond and the beautifully landscaped sculpture garden.
The museum gift shop is large and full of all sorts of great artsy things.
This is easily one of the best museums in the country. And it’s free!
There is a parking garage, which does have a fee, but it’s possible to find free on street parking, as long as you don’t mind walking a block or two.
I highly recommend a visit to this museum.
Haptown Robot — Google review
VMA is truly a gem of a museum. It has a top notch diverse collection that is wonderfully spaced out. You can leisurely view all the galleries without feeling overwhelmed or over saturated. The grounds and the outdoor sculptures are equally impressive. This is a must-see if you’re in Richmond.
Augusto Paulino — Google review
Beautiful collection with so many unique highlights - the furniture, Fabergé eggs, Tiffany lamps, just to name a few. The sculpture gardens out back are the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or read a book. And admission is free (some special exhibits are ticketed)!
Nora Weber — Google review
I am giving one star with a heavy heart. I was visiting family and we were all so excited to come visit the museum. Upon arriving we saw beautiful pieces of work. It was going great. About 10 minutes into our visit we were approached by a museum employee who told us to put our diaper bag on facing forward, they explained it was to keep the works safe from being knocked over. That made sense and we obliged. No problem. However, it would have been helpful if we would’ve been greeted at the front and given that information. But no harm. We carried on (diaper bag facing forward) through the galleries. We entered a long hallway area with paintings hung on either side. My niece (who is 1) was wriggling in my brothers arms. Since we were in a space with nothing that could be knocked over - He set her down and off she went, keep in mind she’s 1…so her run is the equivalent of a quick walk. We were on one side of the gallery and from the other side of the hall we heard booming yelling. It was so loud that it echoed and it was hard to hear what was being shouted. My sister in law took a few steps forward and a man appeared, she said to him “I’m sorry, what was that?”. Again, he yelled “NO RUNNING IN THE GALLERY”. We were too stunned to speak - he was so clearly absolutely furious. My brother scooped up my niece - at this point we were terrified to make another wrong move. It was SO deflating. We left shortly after this encounter because we felt totally unwelcome. I’m not arguing that the gallery should be treated like a race track - what I do think is that there was a more kind way to communicate with us. There were some amazing pieces but the staff at the Museum was incredibly rude and we left very disappointed. I have a fine arts degree, I’ve worked and shown work in galleries. I understand there’s certain etiquette - but I also understand how to communicate with kindness and grace. I hope that the staff, and specifically that employee learn and do better.
Sydney Ruiz — Google review
We went for it first visit and were excited to see works from Matisse, John Singer Sargent. It was wheelchair friendly, high quality art work from a high caliber art museum. It highlighted different artists from the Cubist, Impressionist and The Gilded Age. We will be back, we couldn't complete the museum in one visit. The visit is free, so don't worry about buying tickets. There is a cafe and coat check.
Kerry-Ann Parsons — Google review
First time visit we had a great time so much to see we're going to have to go back a couple more times for sure. There was art from all up and down the timeline and all over the world I found it very fascinating My teenagers also enjoyed it and that says a lot.
Willy — Google review
Beautiful, stunning, charming, peaceful, relaxing are just a few of the words that come to mind. Great for the family, great for dates, great just to get away. Kid friendly, wheelchair accessible, clean, well kept. If you are in the area go visit. Did I mention that it is free.
Johnny Mallory — Google review
Excellent place to spend quality time with family or significant others. There’s always a cultural event or exposition going on. On weekends they have an event called “Family Day” where you can bring kids to do paintings and other activities. They even give them a “passport” where you can have a stamp for each activity that they completed. And the best part: it’s free, you don’t have to pay. It worth a visit!
Gislane Almeida — Google review
My favorite sections were the India artifacts and information and the Russian artifacts (the eggs!!) What an awesome museum. Fantastic art pieces throughout as well... I would definitely go back!
Only downside was that I felt American and French items were just paintings (tons of horses and abstract) or furniture while other cultures/countries had amazing artifacts, jewelry and paintings.
Latisha “Hungry Hiker Hodgepodge” M — Google review
What a beautiful experience!!! The art exhibits were well placed and easy to navigate. The museum environment in was well balanced, not crowded in any areas. I even had lunch in the Cafe. I've never had a bad meal in this place. The food is always so exquisite, fresh, and innovative. The staff was friendly & very attentive to my needs and they really go above and beyond to ensure you enjoyed your meal. I can't wait to go back.
Hope Duck-Duck — Google review
The Faberge collection here was phenomenal! I have visited the Armoury Museum in Moscow which contains some Faberge objects which belong to the Russian Government as well as the Faberge Museum in St. Petersburg, and I can easily say this was the best collection of Faberge I have ever seen. Not only did they have 5 of the famous Faberge Easter eggs, they had numerous large pieces of Faberge silver as well as many hard stone pieces including numerous carved animals and flowers. All were beautifully displayed and lit and easy to view in uncrowded spaces. They also had a beautiful Impressionist painting collection. And all for FREE! Highly recommend!
Ann Telma — Google review
This was our first time visiting the museum. My daughter loved that some of it was interactive. She took time to sketch her favorite piece. We found street parking and didn't enter through the main entrance. They don't allow you to wear backpacks on your back you have to hang it off the shoulder or wear it the front way.
ARLENE PATEL — Google review
I’m such a fan of the VMFA. I have a fond memory of seeing an impressionist exhibit as a high school student here, and it was the first time I realized I enjoyed art. I’m always impressed with the exhibits they manage to secure, and I never leave feeling disappointed. I would recommend getting the membership - it’s just not that expensive and if you see a few exhibits and use their parking garage, the membership easily pays for itself. I went to see an exhibit there last year and was lucky enough to stumble across a fashion show! Loved the energy and the artistry. Check their upcoming events - I feel like they’re always adding something new to the calendar.
I wish I had more photos to add…I need to dig some up! It’s a beautiful building and they transform the space to enhance each exhibit.
Sally Houston — Google review
The VMFA had incredible collections from a variety of artists, periods and movements. Typically I have gone on week days and have never seen it very crowded at all. The museum itself is very beautiful and I would recommend taking some time to spend in the outdoor sculpture garden. Many amazing things to see.
Kalin D'Reaux-Rodgers — Google review
1st time there with my son's school. It was very interesting. Only took a few pictures as we were busy looking at so much. Definitely going back to see the samurai exhibit!
The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a year-round locale with 50 acres of themed gardens, dining options, and a classical domed conservatory. The garden is recognized as one of the top botanical gardens in the country and offers children something to do on a hot day. The garden also has a variety of dining options for adults and boasts beautiful landscapes.
Amazing experience!! Loved it...all of it. Went on a Saturday afternoon. Went to see the Orchid Show, which was fabulous. It was a wee bit crowded inside the conservatory but it was worth it. The orchid displays were worth the trip. It's late winter but the gardens were beginning to show color. The gardens have really nice walkways. Nothing strenuous. You can even walk on the grass! Children were rolling down the hills. This is a great place for kids. I look forward to my next visit in April; early Spring...everything should be in bloom or almost. Highly recommend this treasure.
Pamela Pinson — Google review
I should have known how busy this place was going to be on free-admission July 4th day but I decided to brave the visit on what has to of been one of the hottest days ever! But the Garden was prepared with lots of volunteers helping in the parking lots, providing water refill stations, manning information stations, everywhere! It's a beautiful place with amazing gardens full of just beautiful plants from all over the world. On this hot day, my favorite spots were of course the shaded gardens and the butterfly exhibit did not disappoint. A must visit for those who love gardens, nature, water, and just vibing with what we all wish our home gardens would look like.
Irma Almazan — Google review
We went to visit a few weeks ago and fell in love with the garden. All of the staff were kind and polite. The gardens were well kept. The inside and the restrooms were very clean. We enjoyed our visit so much we became members. Highly recommend Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens.
Tamoya Diggs-Davis — Google review
What is not to love? There is something for everyone here. The walk ways are very accessible, plants and trees are often labeled. The butterfly exhibit and orchid greenhouse is peaceful and fantastic. The rose garden is fragrant and the rotating art installations are unique and interesting. The children's play area has recently been redone and overlooks the lake. The Japanese garden is relaxing and the multiple fountains are well maintained. Come any time of the year especially in Sring and for Christmas.
Rebecca Courtright — Google review
This was an absolute highlight of our vacation. The garden has approximately 50 acres of land filled with an exceptionally diverse plant catalog with a Children’s Garden, a Butterfly Garden, multiple children playgrounds, refreshment areas, and other hands-on activities. The staff are very friendly and attentive as well. There’s plenty of free parking and the prices are extremely reasonable. This is a definite must visit when you are in Richmond!
Trent Heck — Google review
Today on our visit the gardens were pretty empty. There were quite a bit of things in bloom and it was a nice peaceful walk around the grounds. The grounds overall were extremely clean and well taken care of. The staff that we had interactions with were extremely nice and able to answer any questions we had. This was a really cool place to get to walk around and look at all the plants. All of the plants were labeled as well, incase you wanted to know what something was.
Aaron Jerkins — Google review
A top ten garden. Changes with every season. Beautiful flowers, trees, and shrubs. Well thought out paths. Large children's section, wonderful arboretum. Always has something special going on to see.
Mike s — Google review
Really like this property. Great place to take pictures. Enough variety to keep you busy for awhile. We go during the holidays when they have the Christmas lights up, and it's dog night. Highly recommend checking this place out.
Average Joe — Google review
I had the opportunity to visit the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden on 3/26/24. What an amazing place. So peaceful. So beautiful. I went a little crazy with the photos but just couldn’t help myself. Definitely a 5 star location. I’ll certainly be back particularly if I need some grounding.
Bill Werling — Google review
The bonsai exhibit is very cool. We went in late February so there’s not much to see other than the orchids in the greenhouse. The area is very clean and well-kept. The staffs are friendly and welcoming.
Due Chuenchujit — Google review
Went on a whim as a field trip with our two year old. Everyone loved it! Spent about 3 hours there. There were flowers and plants I've never seen in real life or pictures before. Hopefully these pictures help entice you to check it out for yourself; but they won't to do it justice. Not to mention, a huge butterfly room. A must see/visit. Go yourself, with friends, or with family. It's beautiful. Kid friendly as well. They do events, too, apparently, so we will be looking for that in the future.
Tom Sawyer — Google review
This place is absolutely beautiful! Whimsical gardens bursting with life, So much to see and do. The aromas from all the variety of flowers was gorgeous. Such a wide variety of plants to see and explore. I also love how all of them are labeled as to what they are...very educational. Will definitely be going back.
A Chosen One — Google review
Simply stunning. Each exhibit and individual garden was stroller-accessible. I had the most lovely time ogling at the various flowers and plants. We’ll be definitely returning in the fall!
Sam Finley — Google review
Admission was free on Labor Day, walking through the entire garden took around 2 hours, stopping several times to take in the scenery. This is one of the most family-friendly places I've visited, the park is filled with high-quality experiences for children. For 96° summer afternoons, water and sun protection are a must!
Some highlights for me were the live music performance at the historic Bloemendaal house, the Incanto sculptures by Kate Raudenbush scattered throughout the park, and the see-through beehive at the Kroger community garden. The gift shop was also quite large and the old ladies working there were very charming. Lovely visit overall!
Tony Lin — Google review
Stunning facility. The different stops are each breathtaking in their own special way. What a great presentation of biodiversity. The pathways are mostly flat but there are some hilly sections. There are so many beautiful flowers, trees, cacti, succulents, and other types of plants. There is a cost for admission ($17 as of 08/2023) but they offer military discounts. Well worth the visit.
Elizabeth — Google review
This is one of my happy places. I've been a member for years now, and it's always a peaceful place to recharge my emotional batteries. The staff are always kind and friendly. I head up to the conservatory (not sure if that's the right word) first to look at the orchids, and the butterflies when they're there. Then I do a leisurely lap around the grounds, listening to the water, looking at the flowers and enjoying the turtles and fish that are there.
But not the heron. There is a heron that shows up sometimes. He is my nemesis, and he only seems to show up when I don't have my big camera with me.
It's nice to be able to sit on the porch of the tea house and just exist for awhile. They also have classes (I've taken one about spices and another about rice) that are amazing. Highly recommend this place.
Daniel Slater — Google review
Visited the garden for the holiday lights. The grounds were beautiful and captivating. The process to purchase the tickets and to check in was very easy. There were restrooms upon entry. There was a lot of places to take nice pictures. There was. O food or drink allowed due to having a restaurant. There was apple cider and hot. Chocolate available. But the hot chocolate was so hot my. Holder. Could not drink them h til we got home. So maybe if there was an option to have it cooler that would be good. Otherwise I was pleased.
Margaret Eva — Google review
A visit to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Festival of Lights is a holiday tradition for our family. Enjoy a festive, colorful walk after dark through the garden. This year’s light show is beautiful. The kids love the magical holiday garden. It’s truly a great experience for the whole family. The path is paved and can accommodate strollers and wheelchairs. There are some hills to navigate. Don’t forget to visit the conservatory to see the giant Christmas tree. There is also an awesome indoor toy village with trains running through.
SAS — Google review
Came here for the first time during the Christmas light festival. The decorations were beautiful, though initially felt like a sensory overload. Plenty of parking available. Well run event. And the ground had hard top so it was easy for everyone to navigate.
Super chilly night and wish I had brought a warm beverage like many others. Now I'm curious to see all the plants inside and definitely will have to come back for a daytime visit.
Nola — Google review
We visited in January and it was a delightful experience. Lunch at the cafe was tasty and exactly what we needed after a few hours of walking around. I can't wait to visit again when more flowers are in bloom and enjoy some wine with lunch. 10/10 would go again!
Carole Rickman — Google review
I went to the show today, and it was phenomenal. The Orchids bloomed beautifully. The people were friendly, and the rain hindered nothing. I enjoyed myself. I will visit again.
Kings Dominion is a large theme park featuring thrilling roller coasters, exciting rides, and even a water park. The park has recently upgraded its dining options, offering new culinary experiences for visitors to enjoy. It's known for its aggressive rides like the Intimidator 305 and offers a variety of attractions from different manufacturers. While the food is considered good, it can be pricey with an average meal cost of around $17.
An absolute delight to visit with an impressive arsenal of rides to choose between for chill riders and adrenaline junkies alike! Visited with my good friends all the way up from TN and we were thrilled with the turnout.
That Viking ship was legendary, and usually I just brag about coasters. Had to ride twice to rotate my brain back where it needed to be 😂
Danny Rader — Google review
First visit here, but have visited other Cedar Fair parks. It’s a beautiful park! Landscaping and shade are top notch. Planet Snoopy was a big hit for my son. The coasters and other rides were a huge hit for me. Overall I enjoyed it very much. However, I did find majority of staff to be rude and so were many of the guest clientele there on our visit. I encountered a lot of line cutting. I also found some issues with finding decent food/dining options that day due to a lot not being open. What options we did visit typically had rude customer service. With that stated, I still am a Cedar Fair parks fan and would both recommend this as well as utilize my pass to visit again. Video version is up on my channel on YouTube.
Hammocks to Coasters — Google review
Kings Dominion has been a great place to make memories for my brother and I for over 30 years. It is very clean for an amusement park and not too big either. The rides are fun, and the lines are very manageable. I highly recommend it!
Chad Stecker — Google review
Kings Dominion is a coaster lovers dream! Great atmosphere for a Cedar Fair park. We loved the unique parts of the park for example the mushrooms, jungle themed area, candy apple lane and Twisted Timbers. Definitely will be back soon once they add some more awesome rides. This park could use a Beast Style ride going out into the wilderness and some more unique dark rides.
Kyle Smith — Google review
Very Amazing place! I've been on all of the coasters and I'd just like to say they were were all superb! The food there was great and there were a bunch of fun things to do there. There employees were super nice and helpful on where to go if you needed to find a place. I've gotten year passes with my family for 2 years now and haven't regretted a bit of it!
Cal Robertson — Google review
Best park for close to MD. If you enjoy more aggressive rides this park has one of the most aggressive, Intimidator 305. They have a good variety of rides from different manufacturers.
The food is really good, but really expensive for food in general, average price $17 per meal. Water park is good and included with the ticket price. Got a season pass for the last 2 years. Good value for the single park and car parking. Only need to go 2x to make it worth the cost $100 for the basic season pass.
Monica M — Google review
We went to this park on Wednesday and it was the best decision. The park was busy but not as bad as it would be on the weekend. We were able to ride multiple times and enjoyed the water park Soak City for a long time. It was fun to play the games and my Love ended up winning a basketball. We got the cups that let us get refills which I highly recommend. It gets hot. Overall this was a fun day for us . We are thinking about getting season passes.
Balloon Artist — Google review
This is a great amusement park. There is so much to do here. Nice selection of rides for all ages. The park is beautiful! Very clean and well taken care of. Many performances throughout the park to keep you entertained if you need a break from rides. The food is good. The lines are not bad they more along quickly
Angie Kyle — Google review
Great place to hangout and enjoy. One day will not be enough on weekends as queues are lengthy and need to walk bit distances. Love ❤️ the thrilling rides. The beauty is toddlers and kids have separate zone for pool and rides, they don’t miss anything. We have now opted for annual pass and trying to cover everything slowly. Outside food is allowed, inside it is over priced. Pack minimal food for kids.
Aishu's — Google review
Had an amazing New Year's Eve at Kings Dominion Park! Quick check-in despite our late arrival. Tickets for the 31st night celebrations were reasonably priced at $26, plus $30 for parking. The park was beautifully decorated with a festive Christmas vibe. Food options were decent, and the various performances added to the lively atmosphere. The fireworks at midnight were spectacular, and the additional performances were a great touch. Overall, a fantastic experience – definitely a 5-star celebration!
Shashank — Google review
Had a blast at Kings Dominion. Definitely want to come back; it redeemed the disappointment of a day spent at Busch Gardens. Tickets were under $40 per person, and fast lane was not needed. The ride ops were sometimes fast, and other times took a little longer, but it looked to be due to trying to get guests to listen and put ALL the items in the bin/station. Park was clean, staff had energy, and was just a bit tricky navigating at first since there is like a "coaster alley" that doesn't form a circle in the park; it's a branch path. Lockers for some rides, others you could store in bins at stations, but lockers not free. Very confusing. I wish ALL rides had bins/station option, or all had FREE lockers. Universal does it based on the rides' wait time before charging for the locker. Overall great experience.
Kody B — Google review
A nice fun experience, alone, with someone or your family, much better price if you buy online beforehand and the golden pass is more convenient if you want to go more than once for example for Halloween or some other occasion. Convenient to included the drink on the input value. The wave pool closes at 5 so schedule your visit so you can enjoy some time on there and in the water games that are very fun if you go with the small children it has pool for them too. The lockers are rented and the price according to the size there is a discount with the golden pass. There is not much public in weekdays. I have gone Monday and I did not wait long to enter to the games.
Ceci Morera — Google review
Kings dominion is always great...fun rides good service. Fast lane is crazy expensive but worth it, food and drinks crazy expensive and not worth it. That expected at any theme park though. Overall great time.
Robert Andrews — Google review
We went to Kings Dominion in one of the week days and we had an amazing experience. There was no crowd and there was barely 10 min wait to get on the rides on the regular tickets. They have Soak City where they have kids and adults water play area. They have roller coasters and staff members do make sure that the person sitting on the coasters are in appropriate height. For kiddie rides they have Planet Snoopy with 10 plus rides 3 yrs old can easily ride on them. They have indoor arcades as well outdoor. In terms of dinning they have great variety of options to choose from. If you want to spend a day full of fun bring your family, you will not be disappointed.
Mariam — Google review
King's Dominion is a great experience. I went with friends in the middle of the week on a Wednesday and that's definitely the way to go.
There was hardly a 5-10 wait for any of the rides allowing us to ride multiple times, the place still had a decent number of folks so it didn't feel deserted, and there was a respectable amount of shade so even though there was a heat advisory warning it wasn't unbearable. We weren't able (or willing) to hit everything in the park (sorry, Planet Snoopy) but we had a great time.
There's a few rides that require you to not have anything in your pockets. You can have someone sit out and just hold your stuff, but I recommend paying for a locker. You can pay for one option for the ability to change locations, so you pay once for the day and you can retrieve your stuff and move it to the lockers outside of another ride as many times as you need to throughout the day.
The food is at the prices you'd expect, which is to say high, but I avoided eating all day at the park (which I don't recommend during a heat wave), but it was definitely a day well spent. I'd highly recommend going, especially if you can go on a Wednesday when the crowds hardly exist.
Steven Fox — Google review
Always have a great time with kids especially around holidays. So much to do, so much fun. Buy tickets in advance to save time in line or get a season pass and enjoy free parking and food discounts year round. They have buffet, Starbucks, grill, special foods around holidays, sweet frog ice cream and much more. I like that they have family house so if you are there with little ones , you can enjoy quite place where you can feed them, play with them. change clothes/diapers.
Eugene S — Google review
One of the best theme parks, if you are looking for a fun theme park, then this is the place. It has some amazing rides, I highly recommend twisted Timbers and flight of fear because they are some awesome roller coasters. don’t spend your money with extremely expensive options like Disney world when this place is almost as awesome!!!
NZ B — Google review
Winterfest was amazing! The park was beautiful - at times we just stood still so we could take it all in. The only holiday lights I’ve seen as incredible as this display was at the Spectacle of Lights at Disney World that was ended 5 years ago. This is the perfect replacement for us! The lights, shows, music, food were all wonderful, but the live animals were the icing on the cake. We could’ve stayed there for an hour just watching the smiles and laughter of the children as they touched the animals. The adults were just as delighted! We will not only return to Winterfest next year, but hopefully go more than just once. This is now our new favorite holiday activity, one which we hope will become a family tradition for many years to come!
Sara W — Google review
Decent experience overall. We came during Christmas time, so it was very pretty and a really festive atmosphere. However, it was v e r y cold, so if you're going during the winter, BRING WARM CLOTHES. There were performances on the streets, which were really fun, but none of the roller coasters were operational, as it was too cold outside. Me and my friend ended up riding the drop tower about a million times, but I would definitely recommend coming during the summer when the rides are open, along with the water park! The water park is what really sells it to me, I love the whole thing so much. Even though I didn't get what I may have been expecting this trip, it was still great and we had a great time.
Jaydon Bigler — Google review
Amazing place to visit, I’ll recommend to get the fast lane bands, it’s a little bit pricey but worth it, most of the rides are complete thrills but there are a lot for kids too, fun stuff for kids, adult, family, 55+ and so on
Prices for beverages and snacks are a little bit high, no smoking area ( couple years ago there was about 5 designated smoking areas)
It’s probably impossible to win a big toy prize at games but medium and small size is manageable
A lot of parking lots, for cars, buses and rv
Personal is very nice, all of them are pretty young which makes me happy that upcoming generations are involved in hard work
Radu Matran — Google review
This is my first time visiting as an adult and had an enjoyable time. They had Halloween decorations up and doing their evening Halloween special. We attended during the day stayed 5 hours, road a few rides. Park employees are generally friendly and helpful.
Anita Mick — Google review
This park continues to improve! I’m sure it will become a 5-star park in my eyes once they complete the Jungle X-Pedition land and open the new ride & plaza next year. This park has a certain charm to it, with some great rides. One train operations across the entire park weren’t fun on my last visit, but I’m sure that’ll change as the year progresses.
Tay Sports — Google review
Winterfest was great! Excellent for the family, get tickets online and they are only 25$ per person in advance. A lot of things to do for the kids, rides are open. Great Christmas shows and food/drinks. Highly recommended!
Luis — Google review
One of the rides never got running. The weather cleared up and it was a great day for the other rides. The bathrooms were very clean. The lines were perfect during the day but heavy in the evening. Overall, very satisfying trip.
Lizzy Lorenzo — Google review
Great time at Winterfest! The air was chilly and filled with cheer and the cocoa was hot and sweet. Loved the decorations, ice skating rink but most of all enjoyed decorating cookies in Mrs Clause’s kitchen. Such a cute experience and great way to meet the cast/characters. Made it in time to see a show which was by far the best I have seen at KD in quite some time. Overall an amazing experience, I got “pinned” with a hint saying “Find the Mayor” ended up finding the “Mayor of Candyland” which was pretty cool!
Cameron Lawson — Google review
Kids love it. Teens love it. Nice way to spend the day as a family. We went for the Haunt. It was pretty awesome. It was a Saturday evening. A lot of people and long lines for the rides. We had fun.
Cyndi Greer — Google review
The park was alot of fun, the food was good. Pricey, but goo's. There were some rides closed but the park was so big we didn't get to ride everything anyways. There were a few annoying employees at the drink stop and the pig resturant. The park could use some direction. But it was so much fun.
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park is a well-maintained historic site that offers visitors the opportunity to explore U.S Civil War battlefields, trails, and buildings. The park includes a cemetery and hosts living history events to educate visitors about significant locations of the battle. With informative signage around the facilities, navigating through this national park is made easy for visitors unfamiliar with Fredericksburg. Additionally, knowledgeable ranger staff are available to provide assistance and information to those who need it.
Excellent place to walk and get a little history education.
Angela Ziebarth — Google review
This is specifically for the visitor's center and Sunken Rd self guided tour at the Fredericksburg Battlefield.
The visitor's center is very nice. The exhibits have been kept up to date and are legible. There is a lot of great information, too.
The self guided trail is nice and easy going. We had a great time!
Manuela Daniels — Google review
Definitely a place to go for any history lover. Great visitor center and informative signs across the property.
Jeanne L — Google review
This place is a must see. You can stop by the gift shop and get the information on a guided tour via your phone. The house that is still standing on this battlefield still has bullet holes in it you can see on the outside and inside thru the windows. General Cobb was killed in this battle, the spot is marked with a stone.
Mindy Garland — Google review
Main center for most information on Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania battlefields. Visitors Center, located at site of Sunken Road/Stone Wall, has small museum with well-done short movie on Fredericksburg battle. National Cemetery sits atop adjacent Marye's Heights.
Mike — Google review
A lot of history, it's hard to believe that so many died here. A nice visitor center with movie presentations, you can take a self or ranger lead tour of the grands. The gift shop offers souvenirs and National Park passport stamps.
Kaja SWIEB — Google review
Very informative. Great place for a self guided walking tour.
Steven LeFaivre — Google review
Solid museum and gift shop too.
The grounds are definitely worth the walk. We live close by so I frequent here and love seeing the sunrise over the cemetery on Mary's Hill.
Matthew Fish — Google review
Visitor Center is always well stocked and have wonderful staff. No snack area but they sell bottled water. Restrooms are clean. The Innes house is interesting. It was not open today but I have been through it in the past. With the amount of damage from the battle is amazing it still stands and is in good shape.
teresa marcano — Google review
Great video showing how the battle played out. Loved all the exhibits. The greeters were very helpful
Tami Large — Google review
Wonderful park full of history! My family and I enjoyed the walking trail throughout, although unfortunately were there when the Visitor Center was still under construction. Luckily, the table set up outside and the signs around the park were more than enough to make up for it. Great for a quick day trip!
Evan B. — Google review
Long, paved road through the whole battlefield park. Seating area, replica cannons at Spotsylvania end. Multiple trails through the woods, beautiful walking in all seasons. Been coming here for a long time and we just love it!
Dana B. — Google review
The physical facility is well maintained and the staff very friendly and helpful. A 600yd walking tour includes a number of significant locations of the battle. Very convenient. The signage around the facility is extremely helpful to a visitor unfamiliar with Fredericksburg. But the Ranger staff are the real gems here.
Gary Connor — Google review
4.7
(1369)
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4.5
(557)
1013 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, USA
Berkeley Plantation is a historic site located on the James River that dates back to 1726. It features a Georgian-style brick house with 18th-century furnishings, surrounded by beautiful gardens and farmland. The plantation was home to Benjamin Harrison V, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and his son William Henry Harrison, who later became the US President.
My wife and I spent part of the afternoon here earlier today. Absolutely worth the visit! Definitely recommend you stop by for a couple of hours, walk around the grounds, and go on the house tour!
Jeff — Google review
This place was amazing!!! Love the history and the architecture is amazing!!! The tour guide was great, and extremely knowledgeable!! This place is amazing, and we’ll worth the visit! Even after this first visit, there is so much more to see! This is a must visit for those that have interest in history!! The current owners and their ancestors have done a wonderful job of preserving the history, and presenting it to the public.
Joshua Ray Ogletree — Google review
My wife, cousin, and I visited Berkeley Plantation last Summer. It was a great place to visit. The history of the property is rather remarkable. If you love history, this place is worth visiting. Many Presidents visited this property. I will let the tour guides tell you the rest of the interesting facts.
Curtis McGhee Jr. — Google review
Had a great time. The woman in the gift shop was friendly and very knowledgeable. The tour guide was great very friendly knowledgeable. I highly recommend you see this if in the area.
LaRae G — Google review
It was absolutely amazing. I'm really into history so we paid for the tour. I went with my Dad&my 15yr old daughter. Shane was our tour guide&my Dad was beyond impressed. We spent a few hours enjoying the property&walking around. The tour is well worth it.
Becky O'Brien — Google review
A step back in time, Berkeley Plantation, with an interesting history of changing ownership over the years. We toured the house with Clarence, a fantastic guide, bright-spirited and very knowledgeable. Beautiful house and grounds. Allow an hour to walk around, another hour for the tour. Eye opening family tree - don’t miss it - in the building with bathrooms where a (dated) film runs. The mansion’s entrance hall was used for dancing in the early days, and how I would love to bring my Colonial dance club there!
Andrea Larson — Google review
We did a paranormal ghost hunt so a lot of what we saw was in the dark but the history here is amazing! Shane was so full of information and my husband loved picking his brain. The grounds were beautiful and we now need to go back and see the whole place in the daytime.
Alicia Ruiz — Google review
We went on a rainy afternoon, not sure what we would find. Found the most informative, animated and engaging guide! He brought history to life and was a wealth of information. If it had been sunny, there would have been more people....GO! AMAZING
Michelle DeBord — Google review
We walked through the door, to the moment we left this place was awesome. The lady in the front office was very friendly and helpful and also gave us our tour. She was so sweet and even brought the cat George over to see us.
The grounds are very clean and well kept. The house is magical! The history is inspiring...
There is a monument about taps that will absolutely pull your heart strings.
Will be going back
Jessica Jazz — Google review
Beautiful property rich in history. The guided tour was insightful and lasted around thirty minutes. We walked the grounds and went down to the river where the boats would dock to pick up and drop off visitors.
Tom Yenk — Google review
Had a wonderful experience at Berkeley Plantation. Such an historic destination with an unbelievably rich history. Would recommend to anyone wanting to learn more about the origins of this country. The tour guide we had was just awesome.
W.R. Rose — Google review
Loved this plantation. Really enjoyed our guide, I can't quite remember her name but she was really nice, friendly, and informative! She made the tour fun and even had the kids attention the whole time as well. They have a dog there named Chief who roams around the property and he is a super cool friendly loving dog. He toured with us for most of it which was pretty cool.
Adam Brock — Google review
Good tour though guide had dry or bored humor. Could tell he had given tour thousands of times.
But extremely knowledgeable and interesting post tour, one on one.
We arrived in time for last tour of the day so very little time to explore on our own the grounds and extras. Happy with what we had time for!
End of season, last week open.
Tammy — Google review
4.7
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4.5
(501)
12602 Harrison Landing Rd, Charles City, VA 23030, USA