3 Days, 30 Attractions, 30 Miles

A Scenic 3-Day Road Trip in the Shenandoah Valley

Flanked by the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, discover small towns, big backyards, and endless possibilities in Lexington, Buena Vista, and Rockbridge County! Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a getaway with friends, or a romantic weekend, our scenic region offers an inspiring mix of outdoor recreation, history, food, and charm—all within easy driving distance.

Make the most of a weekend, where more than 30 attractions are located within a 30-mile radius. As Virginia celebrates its 250th anniversary, there’s never been a better time to visit.

Use this south-to-north guide to drive scenic U.S. Route 11, which parallels Interstate 81, to get out of traffic, see spectacular vistas, and be near lots of fun recreational opportunities.

Southern Rockbridge

One of Virginia’s most historic thoroughfares, U.S. Route 11—also known as the Wilderness Road—has guided travelers for more than 200 years. It’s the perfect introduction to natural wonders and offbeat attractions.

Described by Thomas Jefferson as “the most sublime of nature’s work,” Natural Bridge State Park is a genuine “can’t miss” attraction. Estimated to be at least 500 million years old, this 30-story high natural wonder. Estimated to be at least 500 million years old, this 30-story-high limestone arch inspires awe whether viewed from below or explored via nearby trails including the Children's Discovery Area with a Kids in ParkTRACK Trail. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Thistle Ridge Disc Golf Trail, an eco-conscious course featuring recycled tee pads, pollinator-friendly fields, scenic views, and challenging play that consistently earns rave reviews.

For something unexpected, stroll through Dinosaur Kingdom II, a whimsical roadside attraction that imagines Civil War battles fought with prehistoric creatures. At Virginia Safari Park, drive through 180 acres while feeding hundreds of animals from your car. Afterward, explore the walk-through village for close encounters with giraffes, birds, and other gentle residents.

Southern Rockbridge shines when it comes to local flavors. Great Valley Farm Brewery & Winery produces ales using ingredients grown on its 27-acre farm. Visit Halcyon Days Cider Company to sample hard ciders made from 50 apple varieties grown among a picturesque orchard labyrinth. Virginia Gold Heritage Farms offers Asian pears, heritage bred meats, tasting room, and farm store.

Lexington

In the heart of Rockbridge County sits Lexington, a charming college town where many attractions are at hand. Park for free at the Visitor Center and explore on foot.

For a different perspective, climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage with Lexington Carriage Company for a relaxed tour through town. Sip a pint and people watch on the deck at Heliotrope Brewery, known for wild farmhouse beers brewed with regional ingredients and paired with creative brick-oven pizzas.

Explore Lexington at the pace and rhythm of hoof-beats.

History lovers will appreciate Oak Grove Cemetery, the final resting place of General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, Confederate veterans, Virginia governors, and poet Margaret Junkin Preston. For after-dark shivers, book a Haunting Tales Ghost Tour to explore Lexington’s eerie past.

There are many ways to experience our American history. Celebrate VA250 at the Jackson House Museum and Virginia Military Institute Museum with 15,000 artifacts, from a Revolutionary War musket to seven Medals of Honor awarded to VMI alumni. The firearms collection includes more than 450 rare and one-of-a-kind pieces.

University Chapel & Galleries, part of the university’s Institutional History Museum and Galleries, explores the Civil War and Reconstruction eras, including Robert E. Lee’s postwar presidency at Washington and Lee University.

The Miller’s House Museum highlights the region’s industrial and transportation history, while the Rockbridge Historical Society serves as a VA250 Passport site.

Tours of the house focus on Jackson’s civilian life as a professor, church leader, businessman, and husband.

Buena Vista

The Chessie Nature Trail connects Lexington and Buena Vista, two delightful Virginia Main Street Communities that straddle I-81. The seven-mile trail is is ideal for walking or cycling the former Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad right of way along the Maury River.

A short six-mile drive from Lexington on Rt. 60 East, visit the quaint town of Buena Vista, which is nestled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and flanked by the Maury River and George Washington National Forest. Among its attractions is Glen Maury Park, a 315-acre playground that boasts wooded hiking/cycling trails, Kids in Park TRACK Trail, an Olympic-sized pool, campgrounds, disc golf course, and more. The park will also host the area’s first Rockbridge Outdoor Fest on June 13.

Glen Maury Park offers bike, kayak, and tube rentals.

Meander the River Walk alongside Maury River. See the Paxton House, a National Historic Place built between 1828 and 1831. Attend an event at Southern Virginia University, or roll onto or hike alongside the Blue Ridge Parkway for spectacular views along what’s billed as “America’s Favorite Drive.” The famed Appalachian Trail is just nine miles outside of town.

Northern Rockbridge

Northern Rockbridge blends rural beauty with distinctive attractions. Virginia Horse Center is a world-class, 600-acre equestrian event facility with eight barns, 11 show rings, two arenas, a cross-country jumping course, and huge coliseum. Over 80 events take place each year, including horse shows, rodeos, and Balloons Over Rockbridge Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Stop by Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen and sample an extensive selection of beer on tap. It’s one of four Rockbridge County stops on the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2026. Enjoy a hot or iced coffee at Roadmap CoffeeWorks brewed with top-quality beans from Latin America and Africa roasted on-site.

Catch a double feature at Hull’s Drive-In Theatre, a beloved local landmark since the 1950s, boasts the area’s largest movie screen. Movies start about 20 minutes after sunset.

Hull’s Drive-In has been entertaining the public for over 50 years.

History and agritourism shine in Nothern Rockbridge! Built in 1756, Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church sits behind a marker for the Sam Houston Birthplace. Born in 1793, Houston served as commander-in-chief of the Texas army, President of Texas, U.S. Senator, and Governor.

The Lavender Fields at Tantivy Farm is a pleasant stop for all of your senses. Whiff blooming fields (in season), hike to a picturesque waterfall, taste lavender ice cream, shop for lavender-infused soaps, enjoy peaceful quiet, and more.

Stroll the lavender fields and waterfall at Tantivy Lavender Farm.

A must-stop for quilters and the people who love them, The Quiltery is a supply store packed with patterns, fabrics, notions and more.

Italian for “here now,” Ecco Adesso look right out of a European storybook. Enjoy the views of the 350-acre property—with hiking trails, waterfalls, and meadows—from the stone manor house or under the timber frame pavilion while sipping Old and New World Italian and Virginia wines and listening to live music.

At Cyrus McCormick Farm enjoy a picturesque setting then tour a barn filled with exhibits about the invention of the grain reaper that kick-started the mechanical revolution in agriculture. Picnic at the pond and take a walk on the Kids in PARK Track Trail.

Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery produces small-batch wines in a range of styles and is a two time winner of the coveted Virginia Governor’s Cup! Try wines in the tasting room or enjoy a glass while gazing out at the 17-acre vineyard and Shenandoah Valley beyond.

See the oldest continuously operating commercial grist mill in the Shenandoah Valley at Wade’s Mill, where local grains have been stone-ground in the traditional way since 1750. Stock up on grits, cornmeal, flour and other treats to take home. Every Saturday and Sunday, the public is welcomed to experience the milling process as the historic water wheel turns and belts, gears and grind stones spin.

Established in 1750, Wade's Mill is oldest continuously operating commercial grist mill in the Shenandoah Valley.

To quench thirst and hunger along Route 11 there’s nothing like a country store to sample true local flavor while stocking up on road-trip snacks plus goodies to take home. From salty country hams to sweet jams, local honey to fresh-churned butter, Virginia peanuts to Route 11 Potato chips, fresh-made pies to slow-smoked barbecue, there’s much to make mouths water at a country store. Visitors and locals flock to Gerties Country Store, Layne’s Country Store, Natty B’s Country Store, and Coiner Country Store.

More To Explore…

To the north – Discover the North Rockbridge Trail, which is comprised of some of the attractions mentioned above plus additional farms, farm shops, antique stores, fabric shops, vineyards, and bed and breakfast accommodations.

To the west – Explore Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve, a 936-acre preserve protecting the 3.7-mile Goshen Pass gorge on the Maury River. This natural treasure boasts steep slopes, jagged rocks, cliffs, river and shoreline, as well as forests, woodlands, and wildlife.

No matter your route, Rockbridge County offers a road trip filled with discovery, beauty, and unforgettable moments.

When you arrive in Lexington, be sure to stop by the Visitor Center at 106 E. Washington St. for free maps, brochures, and tips from friendly folks.