10 Incredible Hidden Gems In Virginia You’ll Want To Discover This Year
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Beth
Author
Virginia is a state that’s brimming with little-known attractions, jaw-dropping destinations, and secret places that only locals seem to know about. Whether you’ve lived in this state for six months or twenty years, you’ll agree that there’s no shortage of ways to be impressed by all that our state has to offer. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best hidden gems in Virginia that you’ll want to discover this year. From dazzling natural wonders to excellent local businesses, consider this your bucket list for the next twelve months.
1. Boxerwood Nature Center
If you're feeling inspired to reconnect with nature this year, there's hardly a better destination than the under-the-radar Boxerwood Nature Center. Part nature center and part woodland garden, this special landmark in Lexington is designed to educate visitors of all ages. Plus, there are some truly magical things you'll discover along the way.
2. The Red Fox Inn & Tavern
The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, 2 E Washington St, Middleburg, VA 20117, USA
Middleburg is home to some of the state's most charming and historic destinations, and the Red Fox Inn & Tavern is certainly no exception. Book a few nights here and prepare to be ushered back in time, while enjoying all the most luxurious modern amenities. Cozy up in the tavern for a decadent four-course meal paired with local wine then fall asleep in your beautifully-appointed antique suite.
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3. Assateague Lighthouse
Assateague Lighthouse, Assateague Island National Seashore, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Just off the coast of Virginia's Eastern Shore, you'll discover Assateague Island, where the beautiful Assateague Lighthouse awaits. The lighthouse is located within the boundaries of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is itself a hidden gem worth exploring. And the best part of all? It's possible to access the top of the lighthouse and admire the breathtaking panoramic view!
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4. Shenandoah Caverns
Shenandoah Caverns, VA 22847, USA
Virginia is home to several cavern systems, but Shenandoah Caverns may just be the most underrated of them all. It's the only cavern in Virginia with elevator access, making it a great day trip destination for visitors of all ages. The cavern tour lasts approximately one hour and you'll cover about a mile of walking. Prepare to be amazed by the ancient formations you'll see along the way.
5. RdV Vineyards
RdV Vineyards, 2550 Delaplane Grade Rd, Delaplane, VA 20144, USA
Singling out one Virginia winery to visit above the rest is a tall order, yet RdV Vineyards may actually be the best winery in the state. Tucked away on an ancient hillside, this winery employs age-old techniques in its creation of award-winning red wine. In fact, many experts agree that the wine produced here can rival some of the best from Napa Valley. Curious to learn more? Make a reservation and plan your visit!
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6. Warm Springs Pools
Warm Springs Pools, 11 Bath St, Warm Springs, VA 24484, USA
Looking for a place to rest and recharge? The newly-renovated Warm Springs Pools are an excellent option. These natural hot springs in Virginia have been enjoyed by weary travelers for generations, and now you too can soak in the healing waters for which Hot Springs is named.
7. Military Aviation Museum
Military Aviation Museum, 1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23457, USA
Next up on our list of hidden gems in Virginia is the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach. It's here that you'll find one of the world's largest collections of vintage military aircraft. The museum is home to both displays as well as demonstrations of these vintage planes from World War I and World War II, and seeing them in flight is a bucket-list-worthy experience.
8. Saunders-Monticello Trail
Saunders-Monticello Trail, 503 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA
Home to 89 acres along the Thomas Jefferson Parkway, the Saunders-Monticello Trail is one of the loveliest and most underrated destinations in central Virginia. Miles of forested, boardwalk, and gravel pathways allow visitors to explore the landscape surrounding the famous Monticello. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a history buff, you'll find there's so much to appreciate about this Charlottesville destination.
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9. Compton Peak Summit Trail
Compton Peak, Virginia 22610, USA
Calling all geology buffs! Head to the Compton Peak Summit via the Appalachian Trail and prepare to be amazed by the otherworldly basalt columns you'll discover along the way. This ancient volcanic columnar jointing may even evoke images of Iceland. Learn more about why this could very well be the most underrated hike in Shenandoah National Park.
10. Frontier Culture Museum
Frontier Culture Museum, 1290 Richmond Rd, Staunton, VA 24401, USA
Last but certainly not least, we arrive at the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton. It's the largest open-air living history museum in the Shenandoah Valley, and it offers something for every kind of explorer. Visitors can learn more about the stories of Indigenous Americans, German, English, and Irish settlers, as well as the forced and painful journey of enslaved Africans. From interactive lantern tours to dedicated activities for toddlers, there's no shortage of educational activities here.
Whether you’ve been looking for non-touristy things to do in Virginia or secret getaways in Virginia, we hope this list has come in handy. How many of these hidden gems in Virginia have you experienced? Which would you add to the list? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! Before heading out on your next excursion, don’t forget to check out our hiking essentials packing list.
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