The Most Affordable Virginia Road Trip Takes You To 8 Stunning Sites For Under $100
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Beth
Author
Road trips are one of the single best ways to experience Virginia. From the breathtaking vistas of Shenandoah National Park to the daring adventure of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, there’s so much to explore by car here in the Old Dominion. And that’s the very inspiration behind today’s feature adventure: an affordable Virginia road trip. We’ve charted out 8 amazing sites, with little or no admission fee, meaning you won’t break the bank as you explore some of these road-trip-worthy destinations. Ready to get started? Let’s go!
Check out the interactive and customizable Google Maps itinerary before you head out.
Virginia Museum of Transportation, 303 Norfolk Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
Our affordable road trip in Virginia begins in the heart of downtown Roanoke at the Virginia Museum of Transportation. If you're a fan of anything with wheels, this first destination is a must. Some of the attractions and exhibitions include an auto gallery, aviation gallery, outside rail yard, and gift shop. The price for adults (18 - 59) is $12.66 and the price for Seniors (60+) is $10.55.
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Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578, USA
Next up is one of the state's greatest natural wonders: Natural Bridge. Located at the namesake Natural Bridge State Park, this 215-foot limestone arch will surely take your breath away. Also worth exploring is the Monacan Indian Village. The admission price is $9 per person, or $6 per person for ages 6 - 12. (Kiddos under 6 can visit for free.)
Blue Sky Bakery, 125 W Nelson St, Lexington, VA 24450, USA
In need of a little pick-me-up? We're headed to Lexington now, where both of our next stops are free! But first, why not treat yourself to a cup of coffee and something sweet from Blue Sky Bakery? This adorable local kitchen serves the *best* treats, or, if you're in need of something heartier, take a sandwich to-go.
Lexington is a true college town, home to the Virginia Military Institute as well as Washington and Lee University. Both campuses are open to the public and absolutely worth exploring. During your self-guided tour, you'll want to take time to appreciate the unique architecture found at each school.
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Chessie Nature Trail, Lexington, VA 24450, USA
Next stop: a peaceful nature trail that parallels the beautiful Maury River. This former railway connects East Lexington to the town of Buena Vista, stretching for 7 miles in total. Along the way, you'll pass beautiful wooded views as well as glimpses of neighboring farms.
Frontier Culture Museum, 1290 Richmond Rd, Staunton, VA 24401, USA
Welcome to Staunton! One of the state's most picturesque small towns, there's a lot to do here. But our destination is a little outside of town; we're headed to the Frontier Culture Museum. It's the biggest open-air museum in the Shenandoah Valley and features 11 historic dwellings from Europe, Africa, and America. The admission price for adults is $12, $9 for seniors, $7 for kids, and free for those 6 and under.
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The next destination on our affordable Virginia road trip will take us to another university campus. The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum at JMU can be described as a wooded sanctuary. This public urban garden is a wonderful space for all ages to get in touch with nature. The arboretum works to preserve native plant species, conduct research, and educate visitors about the abundant plant life in the region. Best of all? It's free and open to the public!
Route 11 Potato Chips, 11 Edwards Wy, Mt Jackson, VA 22842, USA
Last but not least: a potato chip museum. Route 11 Potato Chips are carried in many different grocery stores and sandwich shops throughout Virginia and it's no mystery why. These chips are the real deal, and you can see where the magic is made when you check out the potato chip factory. We think it's the perfect way to end an affordable road trip through Virginia! Admission to the fry-viewing process is free and you can expect a few free samples as well. Just be sure you buy a bag or two for the drive home!
What are your thoughts on this affordable Virginia road trip? Which stops would you add? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
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