A Shenandoah Valley road trip combines small town Americana charm, natural wonders and a multitude of attractions that are tailor-made for kids — even those with disabilities. The Big Valley of Virginia attracts budget-minded vacationers with its many moderately priced hotels, eateries and activities that make it an affordable yet culturally rich destination.
Despite being so near the Beltway, this part of Virginia could be mistaken for Mayberry, because it’s the people you meet along the way who have the most lasting impact. Leave room on your itinerary to interact with locals and you will be richly rewarded. The slower-paced life in these parts means that folks take the time to meet and greet visitors.
Since grandparents will have experienced firsthand what we consider its throwback quality, it makes the Shenandoah Valley an excellent choice for a multigenerational road trip.
Natural Wonders: Caverns Along a Shenandoah Valley Road Trip
Head underground and explore a cavern at one of the half-dozen located in the Big Valley. Those stalagmites and stalacites that you learned about in geology class are strikingly beautiful when viewed up-close. Two caverns are particularly attractive to families. Shenandoah Caverns in Quicksburg turned 100 in 2022.
It’s the only Virginia cavern with an elevator, so you can descend and ascend without lugging a stroller up and down cumbersome stairs. Once you’re in the cavern, the one-hour guided tour will have you trekking a mile on a crushed gravel pathway marveling at fabulous formations along the way.
After you’ve explored the caverns, head next door to the American Celebration on Parade. It’s a massive warehouse filled with dozens of over-the-top floats that once participated in famous parades and Presidential Inaugurals.
More Big Valley Caverns at Luray
Luray Caverns in Luray are the largest and most popular caverns in the East, thanks to their otherworldly beauty. Another plus is the cavern’s new paved walkway, which enables anyone with mobility issues to tour the entire complex without steps or obstructions. Stroll past towering stone columns and crystal-clear pools.
After the self-guided tour, try the Ropes Course or garden maze, car museum, heritage village and more. Music is part of the cave experience, as the world’s only Stalacpipe Organ is here, creating music of symphonic quality from the glorious stone formations.
Whichever caverns you visit, wear comfy shoes and a jacket, as the cavern temperature is a constant 56° F.
Road Trip through Shenandoah National Park
No trip to this region is complete without visiting majestic Shenandoah National Park. Motorists will marvel at awesome Blue Ridge Mountain views as they cruise the 105-mile, two-lane Skyline Drive. Just be sure to get out of your car to experience this park’s pristine beauty up-close.
There are over 500 miles of hiking trails. Stoney Man Trail is an easy 1.6-mile circuit with a spectacular view that is a good bet for families. Unspoiled Big Meadows, near the Visitor’s Center, is the best place to spot deer and other wildlife. The engaging Junior Ranger activity program offers ranger-led nature activities for families throughout much of the year.
Farms Galore in the Shenandoah Valley
The valley stays true to its agricultural roots with a windfall of farm opportunities. Depending on when you visit, ripe apples, pumpkins, peaches and strawberries crowd local farm stands.
Back Home on the Farm is in Harrisonburg. They offer young visitors a fully-accessible farm experience with fun extras like an antique toy collection, a 60-foot slide, and a Virginia-themed carousel with each horse painted to represent a famous Virginian. The enlightened owner makes a special effort to be inclusive and you will see children and adults who face physical and mental challenges sharing in outdoor fun.
Great Country Farms in Bluemont welcomes families with homespun activities like a seasonal corn maze, wagon rides and pig races. Let the kids connect with their food source and pick seasonal produce before heading to the farm stand for a warm homemade doughnut and fresh-pressed apple cider. If you’re there in early November for the pumpkin chunkin’ be sure to bring a change of clothes. This farm welcomes dogs, so no need to leave the pooch at home.
Mackintosh Fruit Farm is just down the road in Berryville. (I did not make this up.) Owners Bill and Lori have been together since their high school sweetheart days. Today, they grow quality produce with the help of their two kids. Pick the bountiful fruit yourself or purchase it fresh at the stand. The prepared food is truly tasty, making Mackintosh Farm a mouth-watering lunch spot and great PYO destination.
Two Fine Children’s Museums for Hands-On Learning
The Shenandoah Valley is home to two terrific children’s museums. They are located in downtown Winchester and Harrisonburg, both charming towns with pedestrian-friendly main streets. The Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum in Winchester aims to give families an interactive experience. Nearly all exhibits are hands-on, with a focus on math, science, literacy, art and music. Note that the first Friday of the month has free admission.
At the Explore More Discovery Museum in Harrisonburg, the staff firmly believes that children learn through play. At this time, activities are limited in scope because visitors have to reserve their Museum Play Sessions online and the museum and maker space are open limited hours. Nonetheless, they make an extra effort to include tweens with age-appropriate offerings like a television studio where museum-goers can anchor the news.
A Variety of Other Retro Family Activities
In keeping with a destination that has attracted tourists for generations, there are some classic family attractions parents and young kids won’t want to miss.
Dinosaur Land is kitschy family fun. This roadside attraction in White Post is home to some 50 life-sized dinosaur statues made out of fiberglass. It’s a sculpture park of prehistoric creatures — even some that kids may climb on. It has been attracting visitors for more than 50 years, so they are doing something right. Closed Thursdays.
The Family Drive-In Theatre in Stephens City opened in 1956. Moviegoers from near and far come to enjoy this all-American blast from the past. Buy a ticket and make a contribution to their screen restoration fund. Beleive me, watching a movie under the stars is completely different from seeing the same film at a multiplex. From the excellent food served at the concession stand to the on-site playground for active kids, this is retro family entertainment at its finest.
Dining on a Shenandoah Vally road trip through Virginia
Comfort food rules in the Shenandoah Valley, so prepare your palate for some down-home delicacies. Favorite family dining spots include the Thunderbird Café outside of Harrisonburg, where Down South cuisine is generously served in a diner-style environment. Breakfast is an eye-opening delight, with creamy grits, pancakes, country sausage and homemade biscuits providing sustenance for the entire day.
Gathering Grounds is located in Luray, so it’s a cozy choice for lunch after you explore Luray Caverns. It’s a local hangout where the pie is always fresh and the coffee’s always piping hot. Hearty sandwiches and homemade soups are delicious options. Rumor has it First Lady Michelle Obama dined here when she visited the caverns, so it has the executive seal of approval.
Overnight Options for a Shenandoah Family Vacation
Though rural in flavor, the Shenandoah Valley is only a few hours’ drive from Washington, D.C. and within easy reach of Baltimore, Philly and New York City. Shenandoah Valley and the Shenandoah National Park has a variety of overnight accommodations for families. Camp or stay at Skyland Resort or Big Meadows Lodge, where accommodations range from rustic cabins to comfortable suites with a view. Both are closed in winter, usually from December to March.
Massanutten Resort is a very large property loaded with recreational possibilities, including a huge indoor waterpark, zip-line, fishing, hiking, biking and golf. In winter, try ice skating, downhill skiing and snowboarding. Accommodations range from motel units to comfy condos with kitchens and the professional service reflects their 50 years of being in business.
For something more luxurious but still kid-friendly, The George Washington Hotel is a great mix of history and modern amenities. Built in 1924, the 90 guest rooms include 10 suites, some with built-in fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Families appreciate the indoor pool and fitness center, plus the refined atmosphere. It is located in the heart of Winchester, walking distance from shops, restaurants and children’s museum.
The revamped Virginia Kid’s Trail website connects the dots for you, making it easy for you to plan your vacation and choose local activities that suit your family’s specific interests. Virginia.org is another comprehensive resource for all Virginia-bound travelers.
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Dr. Artinian, thank you so much for posting that memory. How exciting it must have been, to share the skies with Apollo 11. I agree that today it seems like a remarkable achievement but of course we have not worked together, so hard for so long, on other projects that really need to be addressed. Education is one place to start!
The Lunar Landings
As I was landing in the northern desert of Saudi Arabia in a DC3 plane on July 20, 1969, the Americans were landing on the moon. That evening, the staff of Badana Base Hospital, that belonged to the Trans Arabian Pipeline Company (Tapline), were listening to the news, (Television was not available in the desert). They welcomed me as the new Internist at the hospital.
Soon I learned that the Saudis found it hard to believe that human beings could defile the moon by landing on it, which could have initiated the moon landing conspiracy theories, that persist today.
Now, 50 years later, the lunar landings were, and remain, the greatest achievement of humanity since the birth of intelligence on earth!
Boghos L. Artinian MD
Great information while traveling with children. Children safety first.
I want to do a car trip with my infant child and wife. But, I was afraid how can I travel with my infant child. After reading your blog I got some courage. Thanks for sharing such information. Thanks a lot.
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CORNING MUSEUM OF GLASS, NEW YORK
The Corning Museum of Glass – the world’s largest collection of glass – is showing “Journey to the Moon: How Glass Got Us There” and actual glassy pieces of moon meteorites to touch and see. For scavenger buffs, visitors to the museum can test their super-sleuthing skills and see if they can find the glass-tronaut hidden amongst the galleries.
Awesome Article!
Thanks for sharing..
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON TO TEST CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH IN SPACE OVEN
In a partnership with Zero G Kitchen which is supplying a prototype space oven, and NanoRacks, a commercial space station company, Hilton’s DoubleTree brand is aiding efforts to bring freshly cooked food to the International Space Station. Some time in late 2019, their cookie dough hopes to be the source of the first fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie in space. Here’s more info about this and a cool student competition sponsored by Scholastic.
ok, thanks for the reply!
Thanks for sharing this! you’ll be able to do good as well as have fun and make a difference in the world. Whereas volunteer is always appreciated by all people.
Indeed, a good list. Everyday. At home or on the road.
hi Heather,
Thanks for your comment. We checked on those images and you’re right, that one with the pirate ship in the pool is not from the Bahia Resort. We removed it and checked the others, and the Bahia still has their famous Moorish style pool and pretty beachfront. Hope you have a great trip there.
Thank you Lisa d. So glad that Laura’s review of both Fairmont resorts helped you to make a choice, especially since you can’t really go wrong in Bermuda.
thank you I have been deciding between the two properties and your post was very helpful in my decision.
One of the pictures with a slide doesn’t look like the pool I remember seeing at the bahia. Did they add a new pool?
Dubai is an amazing destination for tourists from across the world. The city tour, desert safari and dhow cruise are among the most famous things to do in Dubai.
Thank you for sharing a really useful and informative article. The way you have detailed and described is really helpful. Hope to see more amazing articles like this. Keep it up to the good work!
Spring Break in Dubai is more exciting with Adventure Plus Desert Safari Dubai tours in Dubai
Great suggestions! The only action item Id say “Oh Hayyllll Nawww” to would be horse-drawn carriage rides. Check out the internet and youll see whats going on with those poor horses. But your other ideas for educational and just-plain fun – really excited to try them out with the family! Thank again.
Hello Omar and Katie,
The Scholasrship Submission form is working again, please revisit the page: https://myfamilytravels.com/Teen_travel_writing to apply for the 2019 Teen Travel Writing Scholarship.
Thanks and good luck!
I would love to participate but I keep getting page not found
Hello Omar, thank you for your note. We have noted this error and our web development team is working to fix it right away. We will let you know when it’s working again. Good luck!
Hi,
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I am very interested in participating in this scholarship opportunity. However, every time I click on the essay submission form, it takes me to a ‘Page not found’ link and says that there is an error with the link. Is there another link that I could possibly submit my essay and photos?
I had a travel blog in the past. But I was going through a rough phase so I shut it down. This article has inspired me to start once again.
SCHLITTERBAHN OPENS INFINITY RACERS, A MAJOR SPACE-THEMED WATERSLIDE
June 7, Colonel Terry Virts, a U.S. Air Force test/fighter pilot and NASA veteran of two spaceflights, will dedicate the newest, only one of its kind, 8-story-tall waterslide at Schlitterbahn Galveston. Infinity Racers is a pair of space-themed, racing head-first mat slides that race through enclosed colorful tubes as long as three space stations.
Nice Post. Thanks for Sharing with us……
Right?? It’s like a dream. I really didn’t believe them at all when I heard that, but looked it up, and sure enough, it’s really that sunny! I can’t wait to head back to the area.
I’m not sure as the rates tend to vary depending on the season. It’s probably best to contact them directly – (727) 363-5100. If you’re curious about their overall rates, I would ask if the rate changes depending on the season, and when their high and low season is. Hope that helps!
I remember visiting KSC during my school days with my friends where we got to learn a lot of interesting things related to space and comsos.
My husband and I are actually scheduled to stay at the Sirata Resort, in just a few days. I was wondering, if you happened to know the cost for the Private Cabana Rentals, you mentioned in your article?? Thank You!!
great useful info you have shared , being a traveler i need it most and it’s really helpful for the first time travelers. thanks for sharing.
I think curious teens would love this road trip. If you schedule enough time for Santa Cruz — which has a great amusement park and places to take surf lessons, that could be a 2-3 day stay for you. Going south, the Hearst Castle with all its tales of intrigue and the story of William Randolph Hearst’s life… it’s pretty fun as house tours go.
The scenery along the Pacific Coast Highway is beautiful, too, if you think your son would enjoy that. At many points, he can look out and see surfers! Towns like San Luis Obispo (now hip enough that locals call it SLO) have become destinations for wine and craft beers, so there are lots of cafes with young people that are fun, even if you’re not drinking.
The whole California coast is special, so ask your son to do some research and pick out spots that interest him, then incorporate them into your itinerary. That way, he’ll have a vested interest in making sure the trip is fun.
Do you think a 13 yr old would like this trip?
MALDIVES AND THE MOON FOR OUR PACIFIC FRIENDS
This just in from the Maldives:
Anantara Kihavah Villas in the Maldives has the largest telescope and observatory in the Indian Ocean so it’s slated as one of the best places in the southern hemisphere to observe and study the stars, planets and the moon. And it’s the moon that is taking centre stage for festivities on July 20th as Anantara Kihavah commemorates the 50th anniversary of man’s landing on the moon. To celebrate, Anantara guests are invited to join Shameem, the islands’ resident Star Guru for a ‘Star Gazing’ breakfast. Lay back to gaze at the stars that glitter overhead, and be regaled by Shameem’s knowledge as he takes you on an intergalactic journey before taking a look through the powerful telescope at the craters on the moon that still amaze people 50 years after the first landing.
For guests who like a later start to the day the SKY Bartenders at Kihavah have created a complimentary cocktail for all guests to mark the occasion – The ‘Buzz’ Aldrin ……
Dubai is an awesome place to spend a great time with the loved one or alone be experiencing the local attractions. Thanks for the details, i have missed the dinner night which i will surely book this time and experience it. Keep posting!
I would definitely go for JURASSIC DINOSAUR DIG. Thanks for suggestions
So many good suggestions! It will be hard to choose but surely through these we will have the most beautiful memories in this summer vacation!
361 days of sunshine a year? Wow! It looks like it’s a perfect destination for families! I’ll be more interested in this place!
Glad that you have a great time and a better idea of Vietnam. If you came back, consider visiting Ninh Binh
We are a family who likes to travel and volunteer where possible. We give gifts of time and service. We find that finding small grass roots organisations when on the ground or at your destination creates the best win-win for all concerned. For example we taught English in a small village in Indonesia – https://sabretoothedchickenstour.wordpress.com/2016/01/09/it-takes-a-village/
In the end it is not the actual work you do as a volunteer that is of the greatest impact but the stereotypes you breakdown and the connections made 🙂
Camping holidays in France are extremely popular and you’ll find some fantastic family friendly campsites with a whole host of activities including some brilliant swimming pools.
NEW YORK HALL OF SCIENCE SUMMER MOON FESTIVAL
We’ve just heard that the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission with a summer filled with flight and space-themed exhibits, workshops, demonstrations, installations and a new film. The celebration kicks off on May 17 with Apollo 11: First Steps Edition, a film with never-before-seen footage and audio recordings of the historic mission. Other highlights include NYSCI’s summer exhibition, Above and Beyond – The Ultimate Flight Exhibition, and Apollo, A Party!, an evening event celebrating the Apollo 11 lunar landing. Check out their schedule for tons of workshops and special family events and go in to see a real Saturn V rocket like the one that took Apollo to the moon.
Man on the Moon in Zurich
The art exhibition “Fly Me to the Moon: The Moon Landing 50 Years On” will be featured at Kunsthaus Zurich in Switzerland, from May 4-June 30. The art show examines how the moon landing, and seeing images of the Earth from far away, changed man’s perception of his place in his environment and the universe. Look for moon works by artists John Russell, Rene Burri, Rene Magritte, Andy Warhol and many more.
Moon Walk Celebration in Ohio!
In southeast Ohio’s Hocking Hills region, the John Glenn Astronomy Park (JGAP) is celebrating its first birthday, while marking the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing. The observatory has 12 telescopes that offer dark sky views due to a lack of light pollution, allowing visitors to discover a distinct view of the moons, planets, stars and galaxies at each visit. The #Apollo50 events begin at 4 p.m. EDT July 20, 2019 and end at 1 a.m. July 21, 2019.
Nice post. I am traveler and I like adventure trips. Its really amazing. I wish to go there one by one. Thanks for sharing about these parks.
Thank you for useful information. It is very detailed.
Traveling with kids is fun but also very tired as we have to take care of them and don’t have much time for ourselves. Sometime I prefer traveling alone.