This Rural Road Trip Will Lead You To Some Of The Best Countryside Hidden Gems In Virginia
By Beth|Published August 31, 2022
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Virginia’s cities are bustling with activities, energy, and vibrancy. Yet there’s something alluring about the countryside. These quieter, less-traveled places are brimming with charms just waiting to be uncovered. To take a closer look at some of Virginia’s finest hidden gems, we’ve devised a road trip that will take you a bit off the beaten path. Along the way, you’ll encounter otherworldly wonders, fantastic roadside stops, and, of course, excellent food to fuel your travels. Ready to get started? This road trip through Virginia is one you won’t want to miss – follow along with the interactive map or modify it to suit your needs here.
1. Bristol and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum
For our first stop on this road trip through Virginia, we're putting the "country" in countryside. Nestled on the Tennessee border — in fact, the Virginia state line goes through Maine Street — Bristol is a small town with a lot to offer. You may not have realized that country music started right here in the Old Dominion, but after a visit to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, you'll be something of an expert. It's not far from here that June Carter Cash was born. For a quick pick-me-up before hitting the road again, check out Blackbird Bakery.
Burke's Garden is the highest valley in Virginia, and it's positively breathtaking. It's been nicknamed "God's Thumbprint," and if you see it from an aerial perspective, you'll understand why. It's a positively stunning place to visit, dotted with barns, silos, and picturesque farmlands. Apparently, when George W. Vanderbilt was scouting land for his famous home, Biltmore, Burke's Garden was his first choice before he settled on Asheville, North Carolina.
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3. Starlite Drive-In Theatre
Starlite Drive-In Theatre, 275 Starlight Dr, Christiansburg, VA 24073, USA
Time to bring on the nostalgia! The Starlite Drive-In Theatre has been around since the early 1950s, and it's one of the few remaining attractions of its kind in Virginia. On select Friday and Saturday nights, visitors can watch movies under the stars. It's the perfect spot for a date night or evening of family fun. Just be sure to check out the Starlite Drive-In Theatre website before planning your trip!
So much exploring is bound to work up an appetite, and fortunately, we've got just the place in mind. Hollywood's Restaurant & Bakery is a local favorite, both for its variety of delicious food as well as its hospitality. Sit back and enjoy a friendly, warm ambiance where delicious eats and drinks are never in short supply!
Our next stop promises a drink with a view. Just a quick drive from downtown Lexington, Great Valley Farm Brewery & Winery is a delicious spot to soak in the views and enjoy a drink. There are a couple of casual snack options as well. Overall, it's a fantastic place to admire Virginia's countryside beauty!
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6. Frontier Culture Museum
Frontier Culture Museum, 1290 Richmond Rd, Staunton, VA 24401, USA
The largest open-air museum in the Shenandoah Valley, the Frontier Culture Museum is a hidden gem that promises both fun and education. It's here you'll find examples of early dwellings from Europe, Africa, and America. Plus, the 200-acre property is stunning! There's a lot to love about this family-friendly destination in Virginia.
Our final stop on this rural road trip through Virginia is a fascinating geological wonder: Natural Chimneys. These towering limestone rock formations create quite a spectacle and the perfect backdrop for hiking or camping. It's incredible to think that these "chimneys" were carved out by an ancient sea. Learn more about what you'll discover at Natural Chimneys Park in Virginia.
So there you have it! A fun-filled, scenic road trip through Virginia that has a little something for everyone. Who would you take this countryside trip with? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! While you’re at it, why don’t you continue your adventures and check out this I-81 road trip in Virginia?
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