Have you ever wondered what one of the oldest roads in Virginia might be? It stands to reason that our state would have some historic routes, some of which are considered among the oldest in the nation. One in particular, described by colonists as the “Great Road to the West” led across Jamestown towards Richmond. Today, the road is known as Scenic Route 5, and it makes for an excellent day trip.

Pictured below is a map of Scenic Route 5, also known as New Market Road. It's the second-oldest road in the country and among Virginia's oldest routes.
Mr. Matté / Wikipedia
Before colonists arrived in Virginia, Native Americans had called this beautiful region home for thousands of years, likely using portions of this very route.
Ser Amantio di Nicolao / Wikipedia
Today, the road stretches between Williamsburg and Richmond, offering an impressive array of historic sites and stunning scenery along the way.
Famartin / Wikipedia

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One nearby landmark is Richmond National Battlefield Park, which is operated by the National Park Service.
Sarah Stierch / Wikipedia
This park contains what was once the largest hospital in the Confederacy as well as original fort structures and more.
Route 5 Corridor Coalition / Facebook
If you're driving this route, you'll undoubtedly appreciate the gentle landscape so characteristic of this portion of Virginia.
Route 5 Corridor Coalition / Facebook
Thanks to the Route 5 Corridor Coalition, the road is protected and treated as a resource, ensuring that visitors can enjoy and learn from it for years to come.
Curious to learn a little more about what you can find along Route 5? Check out the Route 5 Corridor Coalition website, which outlines restaurants, farms, and historic and cultural sites of significance.
Route 5 Corridor Coalition / Facebook

Have you ever driven along Route 5? What are your thoughts on one of the oldest roads in Virginia? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! And, if you need a home base, check out these unique vacation rentals in Williamsburg, Virginia.

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