If you are looking for an enchanting winter getaway, Virginia is a magical mountain state in the wintertime. And there is no shortage of things to do in Shenandoah Valley in winter. Attractions include ski resorts, hiking trails, waterfall hikes, unique cabin rentals, cozy cafes, and even one of the nation’s best underground cave systems are all waiting for you. Let’s go on a little tour of Luray, one of the best small towns in Virginia to enjoy your next winter getaway.

The Blue Ridge Mountains in the Shenandoah National Park rise to a whole new level of beauty in the winter.
things to do in Shenandoah Valley in winter
Shadow Mountain Escape/Facebook
With 500 miles of trails to explore in the Shenandoah National Park this protected wilderness is the perfect destination for nature lovers. And the small town of Luray, Virginia is smack dab in the middle of all that Shenandoah Valley action.
Jason Vines/Flickr
If you love winter activities, Luray's Massanutten Resort offers 6,000 acres of skiing and snowboarding fun - it's just outside Luray in Massanutten, VA.
Massanutten Resort, 1822 Resort Dr, Massanutten, VA 22840
Management/VRBO
Perhaps Luray's biggest attraction is the beautiful Luray Caverns which was discovered in 1878. One of its many stunning features is the wishing pool.
things to do in Shenandoah Valley in winter
Luray Caverns, Luray Caverns Service Rd, Luray, VA 22835, USA
Luray Caverns/Facebook
A tradition began in 1954 to toss coins into the shimmering aquamarine pool in exchange for a wish come true. While we don't know for sure how many individual wishes have actually come true, we do know every year the coins are collected and donated to various charities. Since 1954 that equates to well over a million dollars worth of wishes - so in a way the wishing pool has granted thousands of wishes over the years.

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After a day of skiing, exploring the national park, or spelunking in underground caverns ask any local and they will tell you to stop at GG's.
Gathering Grounds Patisserie & Cafe, 24 E Main St, Luray, VA 22835, USA
Laurie61/TripAdvisor
The Gathering Grounds Patisserie & Cafe is a French-style bistro that is well known for its amazing baked goods, scrumptious lunches, and even mouth-watering steak dinners.
After enjoying all that Luray has to offer, a stay at a unique mountain cabin is in order.
Management/VRBO
You are completely surrounded by the Shenandoah Valley in this "Bougie Bunker." It is an earth home originally built by a doomsday prepper, but now is a wonderful cabin rental in the woods.
Management/VRBO
With cozy modern furnishings in an eco-friendly home, you can enjoy a chilly Virginia winter while staying nice and toasty for a romantic weekend getaway or a family vacation.
Management/VRBO
This unique rental property makes for a fun and memorable stay on your enchanting winter getaway in Luray, Virginia. Be sure to book your stay soon!

Would you like to see inside the Luray Caverns? Watch this YouTube video by WETA PBS of a short tour of the underground wonder. It’s one of the best attractions during the winter in Virginia. 

With so much to explore in the Shenandoah Valley in winter, you are bound to find plenty to keep you busy and entertained. Be sure to read more about the many attractions in Luray, VA in this article.

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More to Explore

Winter In Virginia

Melanie J. | January 12, 2024

What are the best winter towns in Virginia?

There are lots of winter towns in Virginia that come alive during the season. And here are some of our favorites that you should add to your bucket list: 

  • Williamsburg, York County
  • Staunton, Augusta County
  • Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania County
  • Richmond, Henrico County
  • Roanoke, Roanoke County
  • Alexandria, Arlington County
  • Middleburg, Loudoun County
  • Lexington, Rockbridge County
  • Charlottesville, Albemarle County
  • Wise, Wise County

Visit our website to discover more of the best winter towns in Virginia.

What are some cool winter attractions in Virginia?

From ice skating to snow tubing to skiing and more, these are the best winter attractions in Virginia.

  • Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion, Reston
  • Snow tubing at Wintergreen Resort, Nellysford
  • Skiing: Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre, Lynchburg
  • George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Fairfax County
  • Shenandoah River State Park, Bentonville
  • Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve, Alexandria
  • Bryce Resort, Basye
  • Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Virginia Beach

For more information, be sure to read our previous article featuring the best winter attractions in Virginia.

What are the best winter hikes in Virginia?

If you love spending time outdoors during the colder season, these are the best winter hikes in Virginia that are pure magic. 

  • The Peaks of Otter, Bedford
  • Dark Hollow Falls: Shenandoah National Forest, Big Meadows
  • Great Falls Park, McLean
  • Caledon State Park, King George
  • Highway 91, Damascus
  • Huntley Meadows Park, Fairfax County
  • York River State Park, Croaker
  • Catoctin Mountain, Loudoun County
  • Wilderness Road State Park, Ewing
  • Mabry Mill, Meadows of Dan

Here’s a previous article telling you more about these magical winter hikes in Virginia.

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Luray, VA 22835, USA