10 Amazing Virginia Secrets You Never Knew Existed
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Beth
Author
For a medium-sized state, Virginia sure has a remarkable amount of hidden gems. They can come in all shapes and sizes too: hidden swimming holes, fantastic restaurants, and amazing park spaces. You might argue that writing about these places makes them inherently less secretive, but we know our readers will cherish and appreciate them. Even life-long Virginia residents might be amazed by some of these little-known places just waiting to be discovered in our beautiful state.
Who needs a ski resort when you’ve got chairlifts taking you to one of the most incredible natural wonders in the state? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Natural Tunnel State Park, named for the naturally occurring tunnel formation that’s also used as a train tunnel. Address: 1420 Natural Tunnel Parkway, Duffield, VA 24244.
The story behind the Matildaville Ruins is equally fascinating and eerie. Located in Great Falls Park of Northern Virginia, these ruins speak of a colony that has long since been abandoned. The town was charted back in 1790 and was the headquarters for canal construction. With the closing of the canal nearly 50 years later, the town faced decline and was left for ruins which can still be seen today. Address of Great Falls Park: 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102.
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Just outside of Richmond is a beautiful state park filled with scenic hiking and biking trails galore. Whether you’re out to enjoy fresh air and sunshine on a summer afternoon, or would like to see the changing leaves of fall, there’s no wrong time to enjoy the scenery at Pocahontas State Park. The trails also have informative signs posted to help visitors learn more about the vegetation. Address: 10301 State Park Rd, Chesterfield, VA 23832.
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Virginia boats a handful of historic theaters, but do all of them feature Mayan artwork? Marion’s Lincoln Theater, completed in 1929, is one of the last surviving examples of Art Deco Mayan Revival theaters in America. Whether you catch a performance here or simply tour the building, you’re in for a memorable experience. Address: 117 E Main St, Marion, VA 24354.
One of the most unique views of the state’s capital takes place right along the waterfront in an area known as the Pipeline. This walkway sits just above water level (and sometimes submerged when the river is high) and overlooks a section of Class III rapids. Address: the Riverfront of downtown Richmond.
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Tucked away in Ewing, one of Virginia’s lesser-known state parks is utterly breathtaking. Cumberland Mountain looks over what used to be known as Wilderness Road, hence the name of the park. The area is 310 acres in size and features a replica of the historic Martin’s Station. Address: Address: 8051 Wilderness Rd Trail, Ewing, VA 24248.
Nearly 100 acres of botanical gardens and landscape await you when you visit Meadowlark. This beautiful area is also home to lakes, walking trails, and forests. During chillier days, visitors can explore inside the atrium, featuring a tropical garden. Address: 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA 22182.
Located along the north bank of the James River, Westover Plantation is a colonial plantation that dates back to the 1700s. Visitors can marvel at the unique architecture of the building while also enjoying any one of the nearby trails, including a birding and wildlife trail. Address: 7000 Westover Rd, Charles City, VA 23030.
While most boardwalks lead to the ocean, the boardwalk at Huntley Meadows Park overlooks beautiful and unique wetland habitats. Many birds and amphibians have made their home here, and the 10 miles of interpretive trail sites help visitors learn more about them. Address: 3701 Lockheed Blvd, Alexandria, VA 22306.
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Beautiful all year round, this natural area just outside of Roanoke is actually the second-largest municipal park in the whole country. A day pass costs just $2, and visitors can enjoy over 60 miles of trails. Address: 3097 Timberview Rd, Roanoke, VA 24019.
Which of these fascinating sites have you visited? Did any of your favorites miss the list? Be sure to share them with us!
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