Map Of Virginia I 81

Virginia I-81 is a beautiful stretch of highway that offers a plethora of attractions and experiences for travelers. Whether you’re planning a road trip or a weekend getaway, our travel guide will help you explore the very best of this region. From hidden gems to outdoor adventures, here’s everything you need to know before you hit the road.

Top Attractions in Virginia I-81

Virginia I-81 is home to many popular tourist attractions that are worth adding to your itinerary. Some of the top attractions include the Shenandoah Caverns, Natural Bridge State Park, and the Virginia Safari Park. The Shenandoah Caverns are a must-see, boasting stunning underground formations and guided tours. The Natural Bridge State Park is another natural wonder that features a 215-foot limestone arch and hiking trails. Lastly, the Virginia Safari Park offers a unique experience where visitors can drive through the park and feed exotic animals.

Hidden Gems

In addition to the well-known attractions, Virginia I-81 also has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For example, the Barter Theatre in Abingdon is a hidden gem that offers world-class performances in a historic and intimate setting. Another hidden gem is the Devils Backbone Brewing Company in Roseland, which offers guided tours and tastings of their award-winning craft beer.

Food Scene

Virginia I-81 is a foodie’s paradise, offering a variety of culinary experiences. Whether you’re looking for southern comfort food or international cuisine, you won’t be disappointed. Some of the must-try restaurants include The Shack in Staunton, which offers inventive dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and The Palisades Restaurant in Eggleston, which offers farm-to-table cuisine in a beautiful setting.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? No problem. Virginia I-81 offers many budget-friendly options, including free attractions, affordable accommodations, and cheap eats. Some of the free attractions include the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum and the Virginia Museum of the Civil War. For affordable accommodations, consider staying at a budget-friendly hotel chain such as Motel 6 or Super 8. Finally, for cheap eats, check out local food trucks and farmers’ markets for delicious and affordable meals.

Outdoor Adventures

For outdoor enthusiasts, Virginia I-81 has plenty of options for hiking, biking, and more. The New River Trail State Park is a popular destination for biking and hiking, offering 57 miles of scenic trails. The Grayson Highlands State Park is another outdoor destination that offers hiking trails, fishing, and stunning views of the mountains.

Historical Landmarks

Virginia I-81 is rich in history, and there are many historical landmarks worth exploring. The Booker T. Washington National Monument is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the life of the famous African American educator. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley is another historical landmark that offers exhibits on the history and culture of the Shenandoah Valley.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? Virginia I-81 offers many family-friendly activities that are sure to keep everyone entertained. The Massanutten Resort is a popular destination that offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter, and water parks, zip lines, and golf in the summer. Another family-friendly destination is the Virginia Discovery Museum, which offers hands-on exhibits for kids of all ages.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Looking for a unique and authentic experience? Virginia I-81 has many off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth checking out. The Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the Shenandoah Valley, while the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum in Ferrum offers exhibits on the music, crafts, and traditions of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Natural Wonders

Virginia I-81 is home to many natural wonders, including the Natural Bridge State Park and the Shenandoah National Park. The Shenandoah National Park is a must-see, offering 200,000 acres of protected wilderness, including hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Vibrant Nightlife

Looking for a night out on the town? Virginia I-81 has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and music venues. The Blue Ridge Music Center in Galax is a popular destination for live music, while the Martin’s Downtown Bar & Grill in Roanoke offers a lively atmosphere and delicious food.

Local Markets

For a taste of local flavor, check out the many farmers’ markets and craft fairs in Virginia I-81. The Harrisonburg Farmers’ Market is a popular destination that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts. The Floyd Country Store is another local market that offers live music, homemade food, and unique gifts.

Beaches and Mountains

Virginia I-81 offers the best of both worlds, with easy access to both the mountains and the beach. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching, while the Blue Ridge Mountains offer hiking, biking, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Immersion

For a deeper understanding of the local culture, check out the many museums, galleries, and cultural centers in Virginia I-81. The Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke offers exhibits on contemporary art and design, while the Virginia Museum of the Civil War in New Market offers exhibits on the Civil War and the role of Virginia in the conflict.

Art and Music Scene

Virginia I-81 has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues. The Black Dog Salvage is a popular destination that offers architectural salvage, vintage items, and one-of-a-kind art pieces. The Harvester Performance Center in Rocky Mount is another popular destination that offers live music and entertainment.

Walking Tours

For a leisurely stroll through the historic districts of Virginia I-81, check out the many walking tours available. The Historic Staunton Foundation offers guided tours of the historic downtown area, while the Roanoke Valley Preservation Foundation offers tours of the historic neighborhoods in Roanoke.

Architectural Marvels

Virginia I-81 is home to many architectural marvels, including the Natural Bridge State Park and the Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. The Poplar Forest is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the life of one of America’s founding fathers and the architecture of the era.

Historical Sites

For a deeper understanding of Virginia’s history, check out the many historical sites in Virginia I-81. The Appomattox Court House National Historical Park is a popular destination that offers exhibits on the end of the Civil War, while the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton offers exhibits on the lives of early settlers in the Shenandoah Valley.

Biking Routes

Virginia I-81 offers many biking routes that are perfect for a scenic ride. The Virginia Creeper Trail is a popular destination that offers 34 miles of scenic biking trails, while the Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Wellness Retreats

For a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, check out the many wellness retreats in Virginia I-81. The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs offers spa treatments, yoga classes, and other wellness activities, while the Primland Resort in Meadows of Dan offers a variety of wellness programs and outdoor activities.

Adventure Sports

For adrenaline junkies, Virginia I-81 offers many adventure sports, including zip-lining, rock-climbing, and white-water rafting. The New River Gorge is a popular destination for white-water rafting and rock-climbing, while the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium offers zip-lining and other high-flying adventures. In conclusion, Virginia I-81 offers a wide range of attractions and experiences for travelers of all ages and interests. With our comprehensive travel guide, you can explore the very best of this region and create unforgettable memories on your next road trip or weekend getaway. So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!