Plan for a Spring Getaway
A new season means new adventures, and there's no better place to start than Lexington, Buena Vista, and Rockbridge County.
ATTRACTIONS ARE OPEN!
Warm weather fun is at hand now that some of our best experiences have reopened for the season. And for those that haven't, "good things come to those who wait." Build your weekend plans around one of these excellent destinations.
Family Fun for All
Hull's Drive-In is the country's only community-owned drive-in that also operates as a non-profit. Dating to 1950, Hull's has been the site of many first dates, witnesses shrills of laughter from kids playing as the sun sets, and serves up the best movie food you can find.
>> Gate opens at 6:30 p.m. Movie starts at 7:30 p.m. | See the Schedule
The battle continues at Dinosaur Kingdom II when the park opens for the season on April 4. The quirky one-of-a-kind destination is a funky warp on the reality of 1864 in the South. If you're familiar with the time period in question, that means dinosaurs have entered the American Civil War. They're the weapon no one saw coming. Walk through the park and keep your eyes moving, as these creatures can be found lurking high and low along the trail. Additional experiences include a Bigfoot encounter, fossil mining at Extinction Junction, a Dino Dig, and a baby raptor named Thurman.
>> Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Buy Tickets
Get ready for a fantastic animal encounter at Virginia Safari Park! Purchase a bucket of feed and drive through the 180-acre park to meet the unexpected residents. More than 1,000 species are at home at the Virginia Safari Park, and many of them are more than happy to eat right from your hand. Expect to interact with llamas, zebras, bison, ostrich, antelopes, Watusi, and much more. Park the car and take a walk through the Village Walk-Thru to feed the budgies, kangaroos, and giraffes.
If you want an extra special experience, book an animal encounter. You can meet the sloths (who do move as slow as you think), see the "near threatened" Southern White Rhinos up close and personal, or ooh and ahh over the distinguished African penguins. The king of the park is the rare King Cheetah, and the Virginia Safari Park is the only place in the United States to see one.
>> Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Buy Tickets
Unexpected Delights
Climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage in downtown Lexington for an excellent overview of the community and its history. The team at Lexington Carriage Company was just recognized as the Best Historic Tour Operator of the Year in Virginia by Prestige Awards. There's no better way to ride through Lexington and take in the architecture and vibe than a carriage tour.
>> Opens for the season April 1 with tours starting at 11 a.m. | Buy Tickets
The Lavender Fields at Tantivy Farm is a feast for the senses. At home along the North Rockbridge Trail, Tantivy Farm is the place to touch, smell, see, and even taste lavender. Visitors rave about their lavender ice cream. Lavender-themed workshops are offered frequently; if your timing lines up, join in!
>> Opens for the season April 16; Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.
Wade's Mill is the oldest continuously operating commercial grist mill in the Shenandoah Valley and dates to 1750. Beautifully situated, the overshot water wheel turns and turns as the millstones grind away inside. That specific wheel has been in place since 1926, and Wade's Mill is celebrating its centennial on April 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with food trucks, vendors, beer and wine sales, and live music. Join in the festivities!
>> Opens for the Season on April 4; Thursday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More Exciting Experiences
Lime Kiln Theater recently announced its 2026 summer music line-up, and season tickets sold out immediately. Hot acts like Hiss Golden Messenger, Sierra Hull, and Dan Tyminski Band kick off the season while Rising Appalachia closes it out in early October.
Natural Bridge State Park is open all year, but the warmer nights are great for stargazing. Celebrate International Dark Sky Week with a special Astrophotography program on April 16. At this International Dark Sky Park, there are star-studded programs quite frequently. Check the calendar for planning.
For those seeking hands-on opportunities to learn a new craft, The Workshop at Timber Ridge is the perfect destination. From sourdough to sculptural stone carving, the classes appeal to a variety of folks.
Paddle much? Twin River Outfitter in Buchanan will equip and get you onto the Upper James River Water Trail this spring. Both the James and the Maury Rivers are Virginia Scenic Rivers, which means there are bountiful views, few disruptions, and sweet serenity as you go.
