Eight Water-Focused Day Trips in Virginia

By: Abby Price

Summer isn’t complete without a few water-filled adventures, and Lynchburg happens to be perfectly positioned near a mix of underrated gems and popular escapes where you can swim, float, and explore, all within an hour or two of town. From waterfall hikes and river floats to peaceful afternoons spent fishing by a creek, these family-friendly outings are a perfect way to embrace summer at a slower pace.

Sherando Lake Recreation Area (Nelson County)

Tucked within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sherando Lake Recreation Area feels like the kind of place summer memories are made. The recreation area is centered around a 25-acre spring-fed lake where families gather to swim, spread out picnic blankets, and cool off after hiking the surrounding forest trails. 

Despite being one of the more well-known warm-weather escapes near Lynchburg, it still feels peaceful, especially on weekday mornings or later in the afternoon when the crowds thin out. Pack water shoes, bring a picnic lunch, and plan to spend a few hours soaking up the mountain scenery from the shoreline.

James River State Park (Gladstone)

Just down the road from Lynchburg, James River State Park offers the kind of easygoing summer adventure that doesn’t require a full weekend getaway to enjoy. Visitors can spend the day fishing along the shoreline, hiking wooded trails, or kayaking along the river. 

What makes the park especially memorable, though, is its designation as an International Dark Sky Park. While you can absolutely experience the park in a single-day trip, staying into the evening or even camping overnight adds another layer to the experience as the stars begin to emerge over the river and surrounding hills.

Otter Creek (Blue Ridge Parkway)

Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Otter Creek captures everything that makes summer road trips feel nostalgic. The drive alone is part of the experience, winding through mountain overlooks before arriving at a peaceful creek perfect for cooling off on a hot afternoon. Families often gather along the shallow water to splash around, skip rocks, or simply relax beneath the trees while listening to the creek rushing over the rocks. 

The nearby trails and picnic areas make it easy to turn a quick stop into a slower, more leisurely afternoon outdoors. Arriving earlier in the day is ideal during summer weekends, especially when parkway traffic tends to pick up.

Falling Springs Falls (Alleghany County)

Towering at 80 feet tall, Falling Springs Falls is one of those roadside stops that feels almost too beautiful to be real. Water spills dramatically over a rocky cliffside surrounded by lush greenery, creating a misty, cool atmosphere that feels especially refreshing during the peak of summer. 

Unlike some waterfall hikes that require miles of trekking, this one is easily accessible, making it a great option for families or anyone looking for a scenic stop without a strenuous journey. The viewing area is quick to reach, but lingering awhile is part of the experience. Visit after recent rainfall for the most impressive water flow, and don’t forget your camera because this is one of Virginia’s most photogenic waterfalls.

Crabtree Falls (Nelson County)

There’s a reason Crabtree Falls remains one of my favorite hikes near Lynchburg. The 3.3-mile out-and-back trail winds beside cascading waterfalls before climbing to sweeping mountain views at the top, rewarding hikers with both rushing water and panoramic scenery in one outing. Along the way, wooden bridges and overlooks make it easy to pause and appreciate the falls from different angles, especially after a recent rain when the water flow is strongest. 

Summer mornings are usually the best time to visit if you want cooler temperatures and fewer people on the trail. Bring hiking shoes and plenty of water, as parts of the climb can feel steep.

Douthat State Park (Millboro)

Douthat State Park stands out as a destination where outdoor recreation and history naturally come together. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the park was established in 1936 and played a meaningful role in shaping the early development of the state park system across the United States. Today, it is known for its scenic views, fishing, hiking trails, and camping opportunities.

With a calm lake, cabin rentals, picnic areas, and family-friendly playgrounds, it feels like a true summer hangout tucked into the Alleghany Mountains. From a simple day visit to a full weekend stay, Douthat offers enough variety for all ages to settle in, slow down, and enjoy the outdoors at an easy pace.

Devil’s Bathtub (Scott County)

Hidden within the mountains of Southwest Virginia, Devil’s Bathtub is one of the most unforgettable summer adventures on this list. The 4-mile out-and-back hike follows a scenic creek through the forest, crossing shallow streams and rocky paths before eventually arriving at the famous swimming hole tucked beneath a small waterfall. 

Reaching it feels rewarding without being overly difficult, and the water makes the final destination feel almost unreal on a hot summer day. Because the trail involves multiple creek crossings, waterproof shoes are a must. Arriving early is also recommended, especially on weekends, when visitors flock here to swim, cool off, and experience one of Virginia’s most unique hidden gems.

Natural Bridge State Park / Cedar Creek Trail (Natural Bridge)

As a Virginia native, I’ve visited Natural Bridge State Park many times, and it’s one of those places that always brings me back to childhood afternoons spent outside exploring with family. There’s something timeless about spending a summer day here. 

The Cedar Creek Trail winds gently beneath towering trees and along the creek before leading you under the park’s iconic natural rock arch, one of Virginia’s most recognizable landscapes. Early mornings and evenings are especially quiet along the trail, which makes them the best times to go, especially in the height of summer when midday heat and crowds tend to pick up.  

A Blue Ridge escape invites travelers to experience Virginia’s past—one quiet night at a time

Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, where morning fog rolls over the ridgelines and birdsong carries through the trees, history doesn’t feel distant. It feels close—something you can step into.

This summer, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging is inviting guests to do just that with Revolutionary Rest, a limited-time glamping experience designed to mark Virginia’s 250th anniversary. Available June through September, the stay offers something different from traditional commemorations: not a reenactment or a museum visit, but an overnight immersion in the spirit of the Revolutionary era.

“The spark was really a mix of geography and timing,” said owner Natasha Sienitsky. “With the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution approaching, we realized our location is uniquely historical—the Blue Ridge was effectively America’s first ‘frontier.’ We wanted to move away from dry history books and instead celebrate the spirit of that era: the sense of discovery and adventure.” 

A Slower Way Into History

At its core, Revolutionary Rest is built on a simple idea: history is best understood when it’s felt.

“Lodging is what we do best,” Sienitsky said. “While a festival or a plaque is great, history feels much more real when you wake up to the same mountain fog and birdsong that a traveler would have experienced in 1776.” 

That overnight element is what sets the experience apart. Guests aren’t just passing through—they’re settling in, slowing down, and engaging with the landscape over time. Evenings are meant for fireside conversation and stargazing; mornings begin with quiet, light, and the rhythm of the ridge.

Designed for Immersion—Without the Hardship

The experience centers on a colonial-inspired canvas tent, where every detail has been carefully considered to evoke the 18th century without sacrificing comfort.

“It’s about capturing the atmosphere of the 18th century without the hardships,” Sienitsky explained. “We use period-inspired textures—canvas, wood, and wrought iron—to set the stage. It’s authentic in its simplicity… but approachable because you still have a comfortable bed and high-quality linens.” 

The design leans heavily on natural materials, with the tent itself acting as the primary storyteller. Lighting was a particularly important element: instead of harsh LEDs, guests are surrounded by a warm, lantern-like glow that shifts the mood as day turns to night.

Behind the scenes, modern comforts are quietly integrated. Charging ports and insulation are hidden within the design—present when needed, but never disruptive.

“We strove for ‘historical harmony,’” Sienitsky said. “You get the immersion of the past with the restorative sleep of the present.” 

Writing the Moment

One of the most distinctive elements of the experience is the Letters from the Ridge kit—a small but meaningful invitation to disconnect.

Inside the tent, guests will find parchment, a quill-style pen, and a wax seal, encouraging them to write a letter during their stay. The idea draws directly from the realities of 18th-century life, when written correspondence was often the only connection between loved ones.

“We were inspired by the idea of ‘analog’ communication,” Sienitsky said. “We hope guests take away a physical memento of their stay, but more importantly, a memory of a quiet moment spent expressing their thoughts without a screen in sight.” 

It’s a small gesture, but one that reinforces the broader goal: to create space for reflection in a setting that naturally invites it.

A Landscape That Tells the Story

The experience is as much about place as it is about design. Nelson County—long a corridor of movement and settlement—plays a central role in shaping the story of Revolutionary Rest.

“Nelson County has always been a place of passage,” Sienitsky says. “Whether it was the Monacan people or early settlers crossing the gaps, the terrain dictates the story.” 

From the ridge, the landscape itself offers perspective. The steep terrain and expansive valley views hint at the challenges early travelers faced—and the resilience required to navigate them.

While many associate the Revolutionary War with coastal cities and battlefields, the Blue Ridge tells a different story.

“This was the backcountry that provided the timber, the iron, and food for the Continental Army,” Sienitsky noted. 

Today, that same land continues to produce—this time in the form of vineyards, breweries, and artisanal goods that define Nelson County’s modern identity. Guests can explore nearby trails, visit historic sites like Monticello or Ash Lawn-Highland, or sample local flavors along Route 151 before returning to the ridge for the evening.

Who It’s For

Part of what makes Revolutionary Rest compelling is its broad appeal. It’s as well-suited for families seeking an educational weekend as it is for couples looking for a quiet, unconventional getaway.

“We see families wanting an educational but fun ‘unplugged’ weekend, couples looking for a unique, romantic atmosphere, and history enthusiasts who want to feel the era’s textures,” Sienitsky said. 

It also offers an approachable entry point for first-time glampers—those curious about the outdoors but not quite ready to give up comfort.

Reconnecting With the Past—and Each Other

As Virginia prepares to mark 250 years of independence, experiences like Revolutionary Rest reflect a broader shift in how travelers engage with history. Less about observation, more about participation. Less about information, more about connection.

For Love Ridge, that connection is rooted in something simple: stepping away from the pace of modern life and into a quieter rhythm.

“We wanted to create a space where guests could step back in time to ‘revolt’ against their busy modern lives,” Sienitsky said. 

Out on the ridge, under a wide stretch of sky, that feels not only possible—but natural.

Summa Cum Surprising!

By: Marisa A. Marsey / Photos Courtesy: Sweet Briar College / Photo Above Courtesy: Cole Pillow and Susan Sietz

Psst. Want the name of Central Virginia’s most appealing getaway you’ve never heard of? Sweet Briar College (SBC). OK, so you probably have heard of the esteemed women’s liberal arts and sciences college in Amherst County, hugging the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, but bet you didn’t know that it should be on your “must-visit” list. Even if you’re not looking to matriculate.

Sweet Briar is in a sweet spot between Charlottesville and Lynchburg, and its on-campus Elston Inn—an inviting, 38-room, pet-friendly boutique hotel decorated with a light Early American touch—makes an excellent launching pad for touring the area’s rich history and natural splendor. But if
you’re into food and wine, you don’t necessarily have to venture beyond its rolling verdant hills.

That’s because sprawled across 2,840 acres, SBC grows its own vegetables, makes its own honey, and begets award-winning wines. As you drive along U.S. Route 29, you’ll espy sloping rows of cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon vines. That’s the campus’s lower vineyard. There’s also an upper vineyard planted with chardonnay and merlot.

The focus on agriculture and sustainability at the 125-year-old college has mushroomed since devoted alumnae swooped in to save their alma mater from closure through a successful legal challenge and generous donations in 2015.

“We have an incredible campus landscape that has long been integrated with our curriculum, and with the addition of the 26,000-square-foot greenhouse, 20-hive apiary, and nearly 18 acres of grapes, we have enhanced the hands-on experiential learning opportunities for our students,”
said Dr. Lisa Powell, vice president of academic affairs and dean of the college.

In the vineyards, the syllabus covers everything from pruning and estimating yields to determining when grapes are ready to be picked. The wine is then made in a custom crush facility near Charlottesville founded by Michael Shaps, a leader in Virginia’s wine industry, where students help work the bottling line.

Apparently, someone’s been doing their homework. Sweet Briar College Farm’s debut independent vintage from the 2023 harvest shone at the Virginia Governor’s Cup competition in 2025. “Earned the Rosé,” a dry, merlot-based rosé named for the school’s tradition of bestowing a rose along with a diploma at graduation per its motto, “She who earns the rose may bear it,” captured gold, while “Leading the Way Chardonnay” and “Meadow Merlot” took home silver medals.

Over at the greenhouse, which features both soil and hydroponic growing spaces, an automated environmental control system, and pink grow lights (for an effect that upholds the school’s colors: pink and green), any of the college’s 400 students taking Ag Op (Agricultural Operations) courses get their own plot and the autonomy to cultivate whatever they choose.

The result is brilliantly colored, crinkly rainbow chard as gargantuan as if sprouted from magic beans, candy-sweet cherry tomatoes, plump eggplants, brisk lettuces like romaine, red gem, and Batavia, peppers spanning the alphabet from bell and habanero to shishito, cucumbers, a plethora of fragrant herbs, and more.

The bounty is sold to local restaurants, caterers, a retirement facility, a private school, and a distributor, and fills C.S.A. (Community Supported Agriculture) baskets for the community. The lion’s share (make that the Vixen’s share, since SBC’s mascot is a female fox) supplies Prothro, the airy student dining hall. If you stay at the Elston Inn (which serves complimentary continental breakfast including apple cake and SBC honey), you’re welcome to dine there, to savor the hyperlocal fruits of their labor, er, learning.

For a postprandial, apply yourself to 20 miles of trails that meander past two lakes and a boathouse, stables, a butterfly research garden, and a wildflower meadow. Stroll amidst the stunning Georgian Revival buildings, one of the largest collections of Ralph Adams Cram architecture in the nation.

“It’s really an all-season destination,” shared Brian Stanley, director of hospitality for the Elston Inn and its adjoining conference center which border a sanctuary of white oaks hundreds of years old. He catalogs the many campus events open to the public throughout the year such as a Van Der Meer adult tennis clinic, Richmond Symphony performances, equestrian competitions, and gourmet tastings.

Elston Inn guests are welcome to use the Fitness & Athletic Center (yes, there’s a men’s locker room—though you may prefer showering back in your room as it’s stocked with hair and skincare products showcasing SBC honey). Later, sink into a plush chair with a good book at Daisy’s Café, a cozy corner for specialty coffees, light lunches, and snacks.

There’s no whiff of institution here, especially at The Book Shop. It sells textbooks, certainly, but with fabulous fashions, home, and gift items, so much dripping in pink and green, this store deserves a Pulitzer. A Lilly Pulitzer.

If you can pull yourself away, visit Ankida Ridge, Lovingston, and Rebec, all celebrated wineries nearby, or venture into the quaint town of Amherst. Ruffles, Lace & Grace Boutique offers lovely women’s apparel, while Old Soul Vintage and Warehouse Antiques entice with shabby-chic and eclectic treasures.

You’ll find SBC wines at The Briar Patch, where three generations take pride in scratch-made American comfort food. Bonfire, known for its Southern-rooted, wood-fired cuisine, features the college’s wines, too. Chef-owner Brandon Castro Pruett established his locavore bona fides at the Biltmore, and sources SBC’s produce as well as beef from Tucker Family Farms, 5 miles away.

You might just run into Bill and Claudia Tucker there (such are the charms of small towns). They were named “Commercial Producers of the Year” in 2000 by the Beef Improvement Federation, and Bill will passionately describe how he calculates the marbling differential among his multiple breeds (though you might need a Ph.D. to comprehend his formula; just nod and savor that luscious burger).

Back at school, check out the Sweet Briar Museum and art galleries (by appointment) whose collections contain medieval manuscripts, 20th-century femmage (feminist collage), and works on paper by Rembrandt, Picasso, and Goya. Thankfully, there’s a full-service post office on campus, too; you’ll want to send postcards to all your friends saying, “Wish you were here!”  

134 Chapel Road, Sweet Briar, VA, 24595. 434-381-6100.
sbc.edu

When spring arrives in Virginia, it has a way of transforming historic places into something almost cinematic. Brick sidewalks soften under the canopy of blooming trees, café tables return to the sidewalks, and waterfront promenades fill with people eager to feel the first warm breezes of the season.

Just under four hours from Lynchburg, Alexandria offers one of the most charming spring escapes in the Commonwealth. The city’s historic streets, boutique-lined avenues, and riverfront views make it easy to craft a perfect weekend that blends culture, shopping, dining, and a little outdoor adventure—all at a slower, more relaxed pace than neighboring Washington, D.C.

Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in Alexandria.

Seasonal Experiences Worth Planning Around

During the National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12, 2026), Alexandria becomes an ideal home base for visitors hoping to experience the iconic blooms without the stress of navigating D.C. traffic. One of the most scenic options is the Cherry Blossom Water Taxi, which departs from Alexandria’s waterfront and travels directly to the Tidal Basin. The boat ride itself becomes part of the experience—gliding along the Potomac River before stepping off just moments from the blooming trees.

Back in Alexandria, Waterfront Park offers its own springtime draw. Opening this March, artist Alicia Eggert’s immersive installation “Now or Never” will transform the park with monumental billboards designed to spark conversation about time, place, and the surrounding landscape. Positioned along the riverfront, the installation creates a striking visual dialogue between the city and the water.

The New Boutique Shopping Scene

At Eliana Curated, founder Angelika O’Reilly transforms vintage designer buttons into one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. The result is a collection that feels both nostalgic and modern, offering a thoughtful approach to sustainable luxury.

Just a few blocks away, Arielle Shoshana invites visitors into a “fragrance library” filled with rare and gender-neutral scents. The boutique encourages a slower shopping experience—one where visitors sample fragrances, learn about their notes, and discover new olfactory favorites.

Wine lovers will soon have another reason to explore King Street. Opening later this year, DCanter will introduce a high-end wine boutique focused on curated pairings and expert-led tastings.

Al Fresco Dining Along the Potomac

Spring weather in Alexandria practically begs for outdoor dining, and the city’s restaurant scene makes it easy to linger over a meal while soaking in the river views.

At Ada’s on the River, wood-fired cooking takes center stage. Prime steaks and fresh seafood—often including perfectly grilled swordfish—anchor the menu, while the riverside patio allows guests to enjoy dinner alongside sweeping views of the Potomac. Save room for dessert: the restaurant’s caramel-apple beignets have become something of a signature finale.

For a quintessential Old Town experience, stroll to King Street where sidewalk tables offer a front-row seat to the neighborhood’s historic charm. Classic spots like Landini Brothers and Vaso’s Mediterranean provide the perfect “see and be seen” dining atmosphere, with lively patios and the glow of historic architecture all around.

Charming Stays and Waterfront Adventures

A spring weekend in Alexandria feels especially complete when paired with a stay that embraces the season.

At Hotel AKA Alexandria, visitors can book a special spring package featuring floral-themed amenities and curated seasonal perks. The hotel’s contemporary design offers a relaxing contrast to the surrounding historic district while still keeping guests within walking distance of Old Town’s restaurants and shops.

For those who prefer to explore on two wheels, the property also offers access to e-bikes—an ideal way to experience the nearby Mount Vernon Trail, an 18-mile scenic route that hugs the Potomac River. From Alexandria, cyclists can ride north toward Washington, D.C., or head south toward George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, passing river overlooks, historic landmarks, and blooming landscapes along the way.

A Spring Escape Close to Home

Part of Alexandria’s appeal is its balance of experiences. It offers the energy of a historic waterfront city, the creativity of a thriving arts and boutique scene, and the easy accessibility of a weekend trip.

For Lynchburg travelers looking to shake off winter and welcome the new season, Alexandria delivers exactly what spring should feel like—fresh air, blooming landscapes, and the simple pleasure of wandering a beautiful place with nowhere particular to be.

The Richmond Scene Needs to Be Seen

By: Butch Maier

Virginia Repertory Theatre actor McLean Fletcher has worked in the arts around the world but always comes back to Richmond. “I think it’s beautiful,” said Fletcher, who also is a filmmaker and a painter. “The walkability, the drivability, the climate, the tree-lined streets.

“I feel like Richmond is an oasis for me. I have an artistic community that challenges me in a positive way. “It’s big enough to find work but small enough that you can be heard.” No matter your voice.

“It’s diverse and bigger than I think people think—broader,” Virginia Rep artistic director Rick Hammerly said. “There is everything. There is so much music.

A lot of live music, which is amazing. Actual art—painting, photography—it’s everywhere. And I think the theater scene here is really dynamic.

“D.C. has grown into a behemoth, in terms of theater. But here, there are a smaller number, but what I like is the diversity that there is. While we [Virginia Rep] are the largest theater in town, there is another theater that specializes in new plays, there’s another theater which is the gay theater, there is another that does Shakespeare.

“You have all these niches so that if you’re a Richmonder, all of your theater needs are met.”

VIRGINIA REPERTORY THEATRE

Virginia Rep, a regional professional theater headquartered in downtown Richmond, staged Deathtrap (see page 96) in December and January at the Hanover Tavern.

Deathtrap actor Nathan Whitmer and his wife, actor Emelie Faith Thompson, moved to Richmond from Northern Virginia to upsize their home as well as to “hop on the elevator as it’s on its way up” while the Richmond arts scene reaches greater heights.

“We chose this community because we knew that we could come in and keep doing the art we wanted to do and hopefully grow with this community,” Whitmer said. “There’s a bunch of driven artists here—not just in the theater but in the visual arts. We have done a lot of film projects down here over the last eight years, whether it’s commercials or short narratives, so we’ve been down to Richmond a lot, and we’ve really enjoyed getting to know the arts scene down here. We want to help to grow that.”

Upcoming Virginia Rep shows include:
• Primary Trust, March 5-29, at Theatre Gym in the November Theatre complex
• The Cottage, March 27-April 26, at Hanover Tavern
• The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley, April 11-May 3, part of the Jessie Bogese Family Series at the November Theatre
Website: va-rep.org

RICHMOND SHAKESPEARE

Fletcher will portray Lady Macbeth in Richmond Shakepeare’s March 27-April 18 run of Macbeth at Dominion Energy Center’s Gottwald Playhouse.
Website: richmondshakespeare.org

THE BYRD THEATRE (photo above)

I had never been to the Byrd.

I have longed to have one of my movies shown in that sensational cinema location, but I have yet to make something grand enough that makes it Byrd-worthy.

In the meantime, a few hundred other audience members and I gathered to see someone else’s Byrd-worthy pic: Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park…a movie I had neglected to see in a theater the first time around.

I know, I know. Why? I was a college graduate when it premiered in 1993. I was “too cool” to go see a dinosaur movie. I admit my mistake. Sure, I had watched it dozens of times in the past three decades, and it was impressive every time I saw it on TV, but at the Byrd in January, it was magnificent.
The creatures were enormous.

The action was incredible. And the laughs! Every joke played. What a wonderful time was had by all. Well, except for those who were eaten.
Website: byrdtheatre.org

VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts bills itself as a world-class art museum with hometown hospitality.

Case in point: The VMFA displayed a collection of more than 50,000 works of art from almost every major world culture, welcomed indie filmmakers for the James River Short Films Showcase, and hosted an elegant private wedding reception—all in one weekend.

The top prizes in the short film competition went to Richmond’s Jeremy Drummond for Monument, the Texas duo Adam Dietrich and Elliott Gilbert for J.J., Richmond’s Nathan Conrad Piskator for Computer Blue, and D.C.’s Justin Lamb for Work From Home.
Websites: vmfa.museum, jamesriverfilm.org

Tappahannock’s Essex Inn was restored, then the team behind it turned a cross-street historic home into a flagship fine-dinery

By Eric J. Wallace / Photos Courtesy: 1710 Tavern and Essex Inn

Pushing through the red, oversized front door of Tappahannock’s recently renovated Essex Inn is like stepping through a portal to a bygone era. The grand, Greek Revival style manor dates to 1850, and new owners, Greg and Jennifer Huff, lovingly showcase its history through a cozy, museum-like array of 19th- and early 20th-century furnishings, paintings, light fixtures, wallpaper and more.

A spacious off-foyer parlor, for instance, boasts 14-foot ceilings hung with a 1920s wedding cake crystal chandelier that’s counterbalanced by original, wide-plank heart pine floors. Large, mullioned windows are ensconced by ornately layered trim and impressive gilt pediments. A remarkably preserved mahogany drum table perches on a Persian rug between brocaded camelback sofas. Flames crackle behind an Antebellum era cast iron grate in one of twelve original hearth fireplaces.

“We want our guests to feel like the past has come alive,” said Jennifer. The Essex Inn sits in the heart of a designated historic district that dates to 1680. Jennifer and Greg love to regale curious visitors like myself with tales of items’ provenance, the home’s former personages and the history-making events they lived through.

“It’s not something we push,” Greg said, “but if guests are interested, it’s fun to pour some wine and take them on a tour.”

The experience is highly recommended and part of what makes a stay at the new and improved Essex Inn so special: Virtually every antique four-poster bed, china hutch, wall sconce and wingback chair has a story. Many were purchased or donated from area estates or families after the Huffs bought the inn in 2021—and the couple delights in showcasing their collection.

Greg, a 55-year-old former gym teacher and swim coach, wears khaki chinos and a navy blue polo over an athletic build. He gestures at showpiece-grade objects with the animated excitement of a documentary historian.

“It’s a neat way to introduce the town and its evolution from an important Colonial and Civil War era port to today,” he said. The walkabouts also give the innkeepers a chance to connect with visitors. “I think it helps people relax and feel more at home,” added Jennifer, which boosts camaraderie during evening wine hours and three-course breakfasts that come with stays.

“And you never know who you’ll meet,” she said, “or what you might discover.”

A question about an intricately painted, porcelain chandelier in the butler’s pantry, for instance, sparked an emotional revelation. The piece came from the Titanic-rivaling, German luxury cruise liner, Wilhelm II, which the U.S. seized then stripped at the start of World War I. A guest teared up and “told us his grandparents had immigrated to America on that boat,” said Greg.

The intimate interactions validate the couple’s decision to gamble their savings and chase a longtime dream of running a historic boutique inn.

“We wanted to create something so unique and inviting visitors will want to come back again and again,” said Greg.

And spoiler alert: Gauging from a pair of 2025 visits, they’ve more than succeeded.

Funny thing is, the Huffs didn’t set out to intentionally purchase the Essex—much less found its cross-street sister fine-dinery, 1710 Tavern. Greg said, “dumb luck and stubborn persistence” helped them stumble onto a pair of “dream opportunities.”

The couple moved from Charlotte, North Carolina, to the Philadelphia suburbs in 2012, when Jennifer was promoted to a senior supply chain management role in Pfizer’s vaccine division. The job demanded two weeks of travel a month, so Greg focused on parenting and coached a fleet of local swim teams on evenings and weekends. The couple began to plot next chapters as their kids looked ahead to college.

“I loved my work, but being away so much was hard,” said Jennifer. Vacations around the U.S. and beyond had inspired a love for historic homes, inns, and B&Bs. “We’d mused about buying a big old house with some land, fixing it up, and spending our retirement as innkeepers,” she added. With the empty nest phase approaching, “we thought, ‘Why not now?’”

The Huffs’ set broad parameters: “Somewhere in the South that isn’t snowy or blistering hot,” Greg chuckled. He spent weeks combing real estate listings from northeast Georgia to Virginia for affordable fixer-uppers with a backstory. A getaway to the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula narrowed the search.

“We fell in love with the Colonial architecture, rural scenery and laidback, Chesapeake Bay vibe,” said Jennifer. Research brought a list of potential properties and return visits to tour them. “We’d actually bought a place, but the deal fell through within 24 hours of closing.”

The couple were devastated.

“We had a contractor lined up to come in and start renovations that week,” said Greg. Frustrated, “we decided to find a house that worked for us personally and move anyway.”

Then their contractor called with a tip: The Essex Inn was for sale—and at a great price. “There were no listings anywhere online, not even a sign in the yard,” said Greg. So the Huffs paid a visit and knocked on the door. Talks with the elderly owner revealed the house, which was converted to an inn in the late 1990s, had been sliding toward disrepair. Then the combination of COVID and fluke storm damage brought foreclosure.

“We offered to buy the place as-is, then and there,” said Greg. The owner accepted and left pretty much everything beyond her personal belongings.

“It was crazy how it happened, because we’d always assumed we couldn’t afford to buy a finished inn and would have to convert a place to suit.”

Initial excitement aside, the Huffs had their work cut out for them. A leaky roof had collapsed ceilings in all four upstairs suites, damaging floors, beds and décor. Paint and wallpaper were peeling throughout; bathrooms were outdated; there was no central heat and air; landscaping needed taming; carpets and furniture were worn—and the list goes on.

“But we could see the potential,” said Jennifer. “So we basically just worked our butts off nonstop” and overhauled both the main inn and four, cottage-style guest suites in an adjacent, stucco-over-brick rowhome that once served as enslaved quarters.

With improvements chugging along, the Huffs fixed their gaze on an abandoned home across the street. Research revealed the dilapidated structure dated to 1710 and was once a tavern frequented by Colonial town luminaries and visiting elites like George Washington.

“On one hand, it was an eyesore,” laughed Jennifer. On the other, the historic landmark had a storied past—and Tappahannock lacked a flagship fine-dinery and craft cocktail bar. The Huffs rolled the dice on an expansion in 2022, not long after the Essex reopened.

“We’d basically just run with the existing inn concept, which was great,” said Greg. Guests raved about the makeover and bookings were slammed. But the Huffs had looked forward to the creativity of a full buildout and longed for something “that was 100 percent ours from the ground up.”

The building that now houses 1710 required a herculean restoration.

The stone foundation was unstable, floors were partially collapsed, electrical wiring was unsafe, “and that was really just the tip of the iceberg,” said Greg. He worked with familial volunteers like his son and brother, and a team of contractors to transform the space into a restaurant that places its legacy front and center.

1710 Tavern opened to a packed house in September 2023. The beautifully reconstructed interior pays homage to its roots with touches like original wide-plank flooring, cast iron wall sconces, fireplaces, exposed beams and rafters, lead glass windows and a handcrafted, Old World style wooden bar where a framed menu from the original 18th century establishment is on proud display.

Chef Jordan West builds seasonal menus that use local, farm-sourced ingredients to create “the kinds of dishes you’d find being served in the homes of [Colonial aristocrats,] but with a modern twist.” A seared lamb lollipop starter, for instance, is served in a pool of creamy butternut squash puree alongside crisped Idaho gold potato cubes and topped with a dollop of house-made salsa verde.

Veteran bar manager Mickey Slusser takes a similar approach to cocktails.

Menus boast nifty concoctions like a Cherry Bounce, which was a favorite of George Washington. “I got the idea from a seminar I took at Stratford Hall,” said Slusser, referring to the historic estate of Robert E. Lee. The drink is built around a 45-day, secondary fermentation that combines top shelf rum and bourbon with fresh cherries and sugar. The boozy syrup is then mixed with charged mineral water and offers a wonderful balance of sweet and bitter warmth that’s great for early spring.

1710’s ambience, over-the-top service, and delicious attention to detail have inspired a strong regional following and won accolades like a 2025 Best Of Virginia restaurant award.

“If you’d told me 15 years ago that Greg and I would own a boutique inn and restaurant one day, I’d have called you insane,” said Jennifer. But now that the Huffs are living that future?

The innkeepers’ lives seem to fit like a custom-tailored glove.

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Holiday Magic Awaits in Old Town Alexandria

There’s a moment, just as dusk settles over Alexandria’s Old Town, when the streetlights flicker on and the cobblestone streets take on a golden glow. Holiday wreaths hang from centuries-old doorways, carolers’ voices echo off red-brick façades, and the chill off the Potomac feels less like winter’s bite and more like an invitation—to slow down, to breathe, and to take in the season’s charm.

Only a three-hour drive from Lynchburg, Alexandria is a storybook town come to life during the holidays. It’s the kind of destination where history and hospitality blend effortlessly, where you can spend the morning watching a Scottish parade and the evening sipping cocoa by the waterfront. For a weekend trip that captures the heart of the season, this Northern Virginia gem delivers all the festive sparkle—without the frenzy.

A Season of Tradition and Cheer

The first weekend of December is the one to circle on the calendar. From December 5–7, Alexandria celebrates its Biggest Holiday Weekend, a trio of beloved events that transform the city into a full-sensory celebration.

On Saturday morning, the 54th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade winds through Old Town in a tartan-tinted sea of color. Dozens of Scottish clans—complete with bagpipes, drums, and even a few terriers—march past the colonial rowhouses, paying tribute to Alexandria’s Scottish roots. The festive energy carries straight into the evening, when the 25th Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights sets the Potomac aglow. Dozens of vessels, from sleek sailboats to kayaks, glide along the water, wrapped in thousands of twinkle lights.

Families with little ones can take a detour aboard the Santa Railway Express, a short train ride between Alexandria and Manassas where St. Nick himself makes an appearance, candy canes in hand. And for those who want to start early, the festivities begin even before December—Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run opens mid-November, offering ice skating, photo ops, and cozy fire pits under the stars.

Stroll, Sip, and Stay Awhile

Part of Alexandria’s magic lies in how walkable it is. The heart of Old Town stretches from the King Street Metro station to the waterfront—a mile of charm lined with boutiques, cafés, and historic buildings strung with garlands.

For an overnight stay, Hotel Heron delivers a perfect mix of history and modern flair. This winter, its cocktail lounge, Francis Hall, will transform into a Home Alone-themed pop-up bar—complete with playful cocktails and nostalgic nods to the holiday classic. Over at The Alexandrian, the Spirits of the Season package includes festive drinks, discounted rates, and 50% off parking. Guests can also dine in King & Rye’s Winter Wonderland igloos, where flickering lanterns and faux-fur throws set the mood for an après-ski vibe right in the city.

If you prefer a quieter retreat, Morrison House, tucked just off King Street, feels like a stately B&B but with boutique hotel polish. Its on-site bar specializes in classic whiskey cocktails—an ideal way to warm up after a chilly evening walk.

Small Shops, Big Charm

Alexandria’s shopping scene is tailor-made for those who’d rather browse a bookstore than battle a mall crowd. Independent shops line King Street, selling everything from hand-thrown pottery and local art to curated gifts and imported chocolates.

Over Thanksgiving weekend, Plaid Friday and Small Business Saturday invite visitors to support local merchants with special discounts and holiday treats. Later in December, the Christmas Market & Holiday Craft Show fills the air with the scent of pine and cider as artisans showcase handmade goods.

Each storefront feels like a discovery—whether it’s Red Barn Mercantile’s homewares or Penny Post’s stationery, you’ll find thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts that carry the warmth of a small town.

Moments of Whimsy and Wonder

Holiday charm runs deep here, but so does creativity. At George Washington’s Mount Vernon, just a short drive from Old Town, families can meet Aladdin the Christmas Camel, a real-life nod to Washington’s fondness for exotic animals. At the Christmas Illuminations event (December 20–21), fireworks light up the estate grounds as classical music plays over the river.

And then there’s the event locals wait for all year: Waterskiing Santa on Christmas Eve, when Santa and his crew of reindeer and elves carve across the Potomac, spreading cheer in true Alexandria fashion.

If You Go

When: December 5–7 for the main weekend events; lights and markets begin mid-November.
Drive Time: About 3 hours from Lynchburg or an easy trip on the train
Stay: Hotel Heron, The Alexandrian, or Morrison House.
Eat: King & Rye for Southern fare, Virtue Feed & Grain for riverside dining, La Pluma Coffee & Wine for Central American-inspired flavors.
Don’t Miss: The Boat Parade of Lights and Scottish Christmas Walk Parade.

The Heart of the Holidays

What makes Alexandria special isn’t just its picture-perfect backdrop—it’s the feeling of community woven through every wreath, parade, and warm cup of cider. It’s a place where the season still feels personal, where historic streets and modern spirit coexist in perfect harmony.

For Lynchburg readers craving a little nostalgia this December, Alexandria offers something rare: a holiday that feels both new and familiar. Like the best Hallmark movie moments, it’s charming, heartfelt, and entirely unforgettable.

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Embrace the season with epicurean adventures centered around epic inns and great mountain towns

By Eric J. Wallace

Nothing beats the cold-season blues like a scenery-packed trip to a superlative inn or cottage in a fantastic mountain town. The heady combo of high-elevation vistas, breezy adventure, luxe amenities, and killer food and drink at noteworthy local hotspots makes it easy to flip the script on cabin fever.

But as a connoisseur of the upscale retreat, I know that crafting the perfect itinerary isn’t always so easy. Here, I nix the guesswork and give you four of my favorite nearby mountain escapes.

PARIS

The tiny village of Paris is nestled on a former wagon corridor just east of Sky Meadows State Park and about a mile from the Appalachian Trail crossing at Ashby Gap. It’s peppered with gorgeous, Colonial-era homes and rolling, stone-wall-lined pastures that, if you blink, will make you swear you’re in the English countryside.

Where To Stay:
The Ashby Inn dates to 1829 and occupies a two-story, white-washed stucco colonial ensconced by ivy and century-old boxwoods. It holds 10 uniquely appointed rooms furnished with antiques like mahogany wardrobes, repurposed oil lamps and ornately carved fireplace surrounds. Historic themes are balanced by modern amenities like hammered copper sinks, Jacuzzi tubs, luxe mattresses and skylights. A gourmet brunch comes with the stay. ashbyinn.com

Eat, Drink, Play:
Take a scenic, 15-minute drive to taste seriously world-class vino at Lost Mountain Vineyards. Tour a state-of-the-art mixing lab and hundred-yard-long cellar bored into the granite bedrock beneath a large, western lodge style tasting room. Wine fleets include offerings from four Bordeaux region sister wineries but center around astounding estate red blends like Effluvium and Lost Mountain. lostmountainvineyards.com

Hike to the Piedmont Memorial Overlook in Sky Meadows State Park. Follow a .6-mile namesake trail from the Boston Mill parking lot to a 1,500-foot meadow with soaring eastward views of Paris and the upper Crooked Run Valley. dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows

The Ashby’s eponymous fine-dinery is housed in a timber-framed, 1860s addition off the lobby. Executive chef Carlos Leon crafts seasonal menus defined by Caribbean nods and a classic French approach to New Southern cuisine. Splurge on a five-course prix fixe dinner punctuated by a hit parade of tastebud exploding plates like a Luxardo cherry infused carrot chutney topped with seared foie gras and served in a pool of reduced Pedro Ximénez sherry.

Lost Mountain Vineyards. Photo courtesy of YELP

LITTLE WASHINGTON / SPERRYVILLE

The charming Blue Ridge Mountain village is perched in a high, pastoral plateau seven miles east of equally nifty Sperryville and about a dozen from Shenandoah National Park. Taken collectively, the small but mighty communities yield a treasure trove of beautifully restored historic homes and buildings, niche fine dineries, art galleries and celebrated craft spirits makers.

Where to Stay:
Little Washington’s Blue Rock Inn & Restaurant combines boutique, mountain-chic elegance and soaring views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. Five stately rooms are dispersed throughout a sprawling and immaculately renovated, white stucco plantation farmhouse that dates to the 1850s and is centered by a cocktail lounge with soft seating and a windowed cast iron woodstove.

Rooms are uniquely designed and filled with touches like custom wallpaper, vaulted ceilings, canopy beds and opulent baths. Epicure-grade breakfast-in-bed is included. bluerockva.com

Photo courtesy of Early Mountain Vineyards

Eat, Drink, Play:
Try wildly unique wild-fermented beers and ciders at Pen Druid Brewing.

Its fruity, funky concoctions are crafted using historic Belgian methods like wood-fired kettle brewing and bottle conditioning. pendruid.com

Pioneering spirits-maker Copper Fox Distillery helped put dirt-to-glass American single malt on the map. Sip award-winning whiskies sourced from area farmers and malted with smoke from locally harvested fruitwoods in an overhauled historic stable on the North Fork Thornton River. copperfoxdistillery.com

Take a six-mile spin on Skyline Drive to jaw-dropping, 3,000-plus-foot panoramas of the town of Luray and greater Page Valley from the Pinnacles and Jewel Hollow overlooks. visitskylinedrive.org

The Restaurant at Blue Rock is helmed by former Inn At Little Washington protégé Aaron Bachoon. His wine-paired, five-course prix fixe tasting menus blend Trinidadian touchstones and Southern influences inspired by star chef and mentor Patrick O’Connell. Playful dishes like a (radically upscaled) bacon, egg and cheese raviolo, for instance, may preface a seared halibut roulade stuffed with apple parsnip puree and served in a spicy coconut curry.

ORANGE

The 5,000-person town is nestled along the base of the sparsely developed Southwest Mountain range some 30 miles northeast of Charlottesville. Constitution Highway runs through the main drag of a bustling historic downtown area studded with an array of fun and funky boutique shops, eateries, and drink spots.

Barboursville Winery Octagon Room. Photo courtesy of Len Spoden Photography

Where To Stay:
Find the Inn at Willow Grove a few miles from town in a grandiose, brick Federal style manor that was built in 1787 and received a significant addition in 1848. The national historic landmark got a multimillion dollar facelift in the early 2010s that brought a swanky, chef-driven restaurant and bar, spa area and half-dozen guest rooms in the main building.

The latter are great, but the nine, suite-style cottages spread around a stunningly landscaped rear courtyard and garden complex shine. You get amenities like roofed private porches, cozy great rooms with gas fireplaces and granite-countered kitchenettes, stone-tiled bathrooms and more. innatwillowgrove.com

Photo Courtesy of Barboursville Vineyards

Eat, Drink, Play:
A bounty of breweries and wineries can be found in and around Orange. Craft beer connoisseurs will delight in downtown’s divey and vibey Iron Pipe Alewerks. ironpipealewerks.com

Oenophiles should take a scenic southward drive through historic Albemarle County horse-and-hunt country to sample bucket list vintages at Barboursville Vineyards. Vanguard estate director Luca Paschina produces internationally renowned wines like the flagship Octagon red blend and 2023 Vermentino—which were both included in this year’s Governor’s Cup top 12 case. While you’re there, enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the fabulous Palladio Restaurant. bbvwine.com

Head to Virginia Table at Early Mountain Vineyards for insanely good vino-paired small plates and shareables in a French chateau-style tasting room with views of Shenandoah National Park. Former Inn at Little Washington sous chef, Tim Moore, couples delicately curated seasonal tastes—like a cubed potato rösti served in champagne cream sauce and topped with chives and Kaluga caviar—with selections from a critically acclaimed 15-wine menu. The latter ranges from staples like cabernet franc to adventurous single varietal takes on petit manseng or tannat. earlymountain.com

AFTON MOUNTAIN

The Shenandoah Valley gateway community unfolds across a namesake mountainside on the border of Albemarle and Nelson counties and sits within five minutes of entrances to both the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park. Bisected by the Nelson 151 Craft Beverage Trail, it makes a perfect basecamp for exploring the area’s rich gastronomical wealth and natural beauty.

Veritas | Winter

Where To Stay:
Pick from a quintet of modern farmhouse style luxury cottages at Afton Mountain Vineyards. Units unfurl across a thousand-foot hillside and boast private porches and oversized front windows with 180-degree views of the property and surrounding Blue Ridge. One-roomers include spacious living areas with stone-countertop-equipped kitchenettes, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors and gas fireplaces. Bedrooms hold premium king mattresses and lavish, subway-tiled baths with glass walk-in showers. aftonmountainvineyards.com

Farmhouse at Veritas

Eat, Drink, Play:
Start with a farm-sourced charcuterie board and vino-sampler in the window-surrounded tasting room at Afton Mountain Vineyards. Everything winemaker Damien Blanchon makes is exceptional, but recent Governor’s Cup gold medal winners like the Bordeaux-style red, 2019 T, and 2022 Albariño are showstoppers.

Take a 25-mile cruise on designated scenic byway Nelson 151, which breezes through the bucolic Rockfish Valley and is lined by 13 award-winning cideries, breweries and distilleries. Have pints by a blazing hearth or fire pit at standouts like Bryant’s Cider & Brewery or Three Notch’d Beer & Bourbon. nelson151.com

Indulge grand finale grade fine-dining at The Farmhouse Restaurant at Veritas Vineyards. The eatery occupies the first floor of a multi-winged and gorgeously renovated colonial vernacular style 1839 farmhouse. Chef Cody McGehee dishes up locally sourced and Southern-leaning, four-course prix fixe dinners that feature and are paired with Virginia wines. veritasfarmhouse.com

Virginia’s fall colors are calling, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than by train. Rolling hills, historic towns, and vibrant forests transform into a tapestry of red, orange, and gold each autumn, making the journey itself just as memorable as the destination. For those who prefer a stress-free getaway, Amtrak provides a seamless route straight into the heart of Alexandria’s Old Town, where history, culture, and seasonal celebrations await.

The Journey: Relax and Enjoy the View

Autumn in Virginia has long been celebrated for its vibrant foliage, and traveling by train allows you to see it in a way that simply isn’t possible from behind the wheel of a car. Wide windows frame landscapes of farmland, forests, and rivers, while the gentle rhythm of the train encourages passengers to slow down and savor the scenery.

On board, travelers can settle into roomy seats, read a book, enjoy Wi-Fi access, or simply sip a coffee while watching the fall colors roll by. Without the stress of traffic, tolls, or parking, the journey itself feels like part of the vacation. And unlike airports, where security lines and waiting times add layers of hassle, Amtrak stations are designed to get you on your way quickly and comfortably.

Direct service to Alexandria makes it especially easy. The city’s Amtrak station is located in the heart of Old Town, just steps from King Street, meaning that the moment you disembark, the best of Alexandria is right outside the door.

A Walkable Autumn Escape

What sets Alexandria apart from many other fall destinations is its walkability. Once you arrive, there’s no need for a car. Old Town’s cobblestone streets are lined with independent restaurants, boutiques, and historic attractions—all within easy walking distance.

King Street, the main thoroughfare, stretches mile after mile, connecting the Amtrak station to the city’s bustling waterfront. Along the way, you’ll discover more than 200 shops and eateries, ranging from cozy cafés to chef-driven restaurants showcasing seasonal flavors. Stop for a bowl of pumpkin bisque, indulge in warm apple cider, or linger over a locally brewed craft beer.

The city’s historic charm is enhanced by the backdrop of autumn. Trees along the sidewalks blaze with bright leaves, while the crisp air encourages visitors to linger outdoors. Alexandria frequently appears on lists of the nation’s most picturesque small cities, and it’s not hard to see why during this season.

Photos courtesy: Visit Alexandria

Fall Festivals and Seasonal Celebrations

Autumn brings an especially rich calendar of events to Alexandria, making it an ideal time to visit. Outdoor art festivals draw regional and national talent, filling streets and parks with sculptures, paintings, and handcrafted goods. Oktoberfest celebrations add a lively, European flair, complete with beer gardens, music, and traditional fare.

For those who enjoy history with a touch of intrigue, the city’s famous ghost tours offer a spirited way to explore. Led by costumed guides, these lantern-lit walks wind through alleys and historic neighborhoods, sharing stories of Alexandria’s centuries-old past. Whether you believe in spirits or not, the experience provides both entertainment and a unique perspective on the city’s history.

Other seasonal highlights include open houses at Alexandria’s historic homes, waterfront concerts, and family-friendly harvest festivals. With so many activities within walking distance of the station, visitors can craft an itinerary that’s as relaxed or as packed as they choose.

The Waterfront: Where History Meets the Present

No trip to Alexandria is complete without time at the Potomac River waterfront. Recently revitalized, the area offers new restaurants, public art installations, and pedestrian-friendly spaces that capture the city’s balance of old and new.

Fall is an especially appealing time to explore the waterfront, when the river reflects the fiery colors of the trees along its banks. Grab a bench to watch boats drift by, or stroll along the promenade to catch performances, pop-up markets, and seasonal festivals.

For a deeper dive into the past, visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a converted munitions plant now home to working studios where visitors can interact with artists and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces. Or, step back even further in time with a tour of Alexandria’s historic sites, from George Washington’s Mount Vernon (just a short drive or bike ride away) to preserved colonial-era homes in Old Town.

Insider Tips for a Car-Free Visit

To make the most of a fall trip to Alexandria, keep these tips in mind:

• Stay Local: With so many inns, boutique hotels, and Airbnbs located right in Old Town, you can book accommodations within walking distance of the station and leave your car-free adventure intact.
• Use the King Street Trolley: This free service runs the length of King Street, connecting the Amtrak station to the waterfront. It’s a convenient option if your feet get tired from exploring.
• Plan Around Events: Check Alexandria’s events calendar before you go. Festivals and tours fill up quickly in the fall, so booking tickets in advance ensures you don’t miss out.
• Pack Layers: Fall weather in Virginia can shift from sunny and warm to cool and crisp in a single day. A scarf and light jacket make outdoor exploration more comfortable.

Why Alexandria in the Fall?

While Alexandria shines year-round, there’s something particularly special about visiting in autumn. The combination of walkable streets, seasonal food and drink, historic ambiance, and festive events creates an atmosphere that feels both cozy and celebratory. It’s a destination that appeals to couples seeking a romantic weekend, families eager for hands-on history, or friends planning a cultural getaway.

And best of all, thanks to Amtrak, the trip is as easy as it is enjoyable.

Plan Your Getaway

This fall, Amtrak is offering 15% off travel to Alexandria from anywhere in Virginia, making it the perfect time to book a trip. Whether you’re coming from Lynchburg, Norfolk, Richmond, or beyond, you can skip the traffic, enjoy the ride, and step right into the heart of Old Town Alexandria.

Plan your car-free fall escape at Amtrak.com and discover why the journey—and the destination—are equally unforgettable.

Main Street renaissance, Blue Ridge charm are a gateway to great food, wine, shopping and outdoor fun

By: Leona Baker / Photos courtesy of Visit Culpeper, West Park Gardens or by Lisa Davenport

Tucked into the main living room, cattycorner to the pool table and a retro Pac-Man table game at West Park Gardens—a 1920s era home turned short-term rental for overnight stays and special events in Culpeper, Virginia—is a colorful, chalkboard-style display inscribed with ideas for where to “Eat,” “Drink”
and “Play” during your visit.

Based on my recent two-night girls’ getaway with a friend to this historic town on the edge of the Shenandoah Valley, which included jaunts to nearby wineries, restaurants, shops and more, you are going to want to do at least a little of all the above and then some if you plan a visit of your own.

Part of the Virginia Main Street revitalization program, downtown Culpeper has experienced a much-deserved renaissance that showcases its quintessential VA vibes, unique crossroads location, role in American history and gorgeous natural surroundings along with boutique retail, dining, special events and nightlife.

I might have been perfectly content to spend my whole visit at West Park Gardens, where owner Stephen Found has created a home away from home that is equal parts comfy, quirky and sophisticated. From its three spacious second floor guest rooms to the home’s stunning secret backyard garden—where the renovated Garden Cottage with its own kitchen, loft bedroom and private balcony is also available for overnight stays—this is easy Southern living at its best.

West Park’s first-floor common rooms beg you to sit and stay a while, play a game, read a book, or just admire the eclectic assortment of art, antiques and charming tchotchkes. There’s a welcoming dining area for breakfast bites and coffee, a period butler’s pantry and, just beyond a throwback beaded curtain, an enclosed sunroom with golden yellow walls, old-fashioned diner stools along one wall, plants aplenty and even a dartboard.

Once we did venture out the front door and down the sidewalk, we found lots to do and see nearby, including in the downtown area, which is a quick five- to 10-minute walk from West Park Gardens or just a few minutes’ drive.

Culpeper also happens to be geographically situated smack in the middle of a circle of destination towns and attractions that make great day trips—from Lake Anna and Luray Caverns to Harrisonburg and Charlottesville.

World-class hiking, Blue Ridge Mountain scenery and some of Virginia best wineries are also on their doorstep. Here are a few ideas for adventure in and around Culpeper.

Start with Bites and Brews

Our quest for caffeination was percolating from the moment we spotted bags of a local roast bearing a black bird logo on the kitchen counter at West Park Gardens. So, we flew right down to the Raven’s Nest on Davis Street in downtown Culpeper.

A “community living room and coffee house,” it’s everything you want in a cozy coffee shop, plus they serve specialty adult libations like a Garden Gimlet or Barista Sour along with wine, beer, cider and a menu of sandwiches, bagels, avo toast, pastries and more.

If you’ve got baked goods on the brain, you’re going to want to rise and shine for Knakal’s Bakery, because people queue up on the regular to savor the glazed donuts, polka rolls, cakes, cookies, yeast biscuits and apple bread at one of Culpeper’s oldest family-run businesses, in operation since 1935. Just note they are closed on Sunday and Monday.

We had a delightful dinner at Grass Rootes, a farm-to-table restaurant housed in a historic industrial building whose brick walls with hand-painted signage, exposed beams, wooden floors, fireplaces and barred basement door speak to its storied past as a tobacco warehouse, stables, tin shop, Civil War jail and hardware store.

Today, Grass Roote’s guests are greeted by a huge, stylized portrait of Anthony Bourdain and a wall-sized quote from Prince’s “Purple Rain” before they enjoy well-crafted classics like Pan-Seared Salmon with creamy orzo, Crispy Duck Breast with red wine risotto, Spaghetti and Meatballs or Bone-in Pork Chops with garlic whipped potatoes. They also serve brunch and creative cocktails and feature live music in “The Burrow,” AKA basement: ghost stories optional.

Other Culpeper food and drink options: Beer Hound Brewery, Burnt Ends BBQ, La Chiapaneca, Flavor on Main, Far Gohn Brewing Company, Grill 309, HFR Contemporary Kitchen & Bar, It’s About Thyme, Pinto Thai Culpeper and Shawn’s Craft BBQ.

Get on a Roll for Good Wine

It’s a crime to drink and drive. But it would also be a crime not to visit at least a couple of the many wonderful Central Virginia wineries within easy driving distance of Culpeper. Good thing we’ve uncorked a perfect solution that is stylish, fun and safe to boot.

I highly recommend booking with Central Virginia Wine Tours, based in Orange and owned by Stephen Sanford, who may also be your personable and patient driver. Select a Cadillac Escalade, shuttle or a limousine bus, grab your significant other, friends, family and fellow wine lovers and leave the driving to the pros.

You can choose one of their preplanned tours or design your own. Brewery tours are also available. We decided to keep it simple by visiting two of the region’s most celebrated wineries for sips, snacks and what turned out to be a truly unforgettable meal.

Perhaps the most recognizable name in Virginia wine for good reason, Barboursville Vineyards is steeped in tradition, its location on a historic vineyard estate on the slopes of the Southwest Mountains a combination of Old-World elegance and modern refinement.

We nestled into a long wooden bench in Barboursville’s Library 1812 Tasting Room for six-wine flights, a small plate of Pappardelle Bolognese from their Trattoria-inspired menu and a lovely charcuterie board. These paired perfectly with our selections from the wine menu, which showcases Barboursville’s wide variety of wines including the Cabernet Francs and Bordeaux-style red blends for which they are well known, such as their signature Octagon.

At the sleek and inviting Early Mountain Vineyards, we were treated to selections from their Virginia Table small plates menu—from Kaluga Caviar gaufrettes with crème fraîche, chive and potato to Grilled Bison Ribeye with shallot confit and rosemary demi-glace to Chocolate Cremeux with pickled cranberry and anise.

This luxurious feast of shareables was a complete culinary experience paired with the sommelier’s picks, beginning with their Brut Sparkling NV and featuring reds such as their RISE blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Tannat. Established in 2012, Early Mountain has quickly made a name for itself as a leader in the industry, known for its dry wines and focus on low-intervention winemaking embracing Virginia’s terroir.

Where to wander for even more wine: Barboursville and Early Mountain are less than 35 miles from Culpeper.

Some other suggested wineries nearby are DuCard Vineyards, Lake Anna Winery, Mountain Run Winery, Narmada Winery, Old House Vineyards and Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery.

Hit the Shops or Head Outdoors

Get Retail Therapy Downtown. Check out Le Monkey House for edgy and irreverent gifts, our favorite being the cheeky “Where The F*** Is Culpeper?” swag; The Cameleer for handcrafted home decor, pottery and textiles from more than 80 countries around the world; Fulton Found for “curated goods for the rugged spirit”; or Green Roost for ethically sourced, curated apparel, home goods and more.

Hike, Bike, Paddle, Backpack.

Culpeper is a short drive from the Thornton River Gap entrance to Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park, making it a great starting point for exploring legendary trails and scenic views. Don’t miss Old Rag and Mary’s Rock. There’s also great camping, glamping, kayaking and more at Rappahannock River Campground and paddling and fishing at Lake Culpeper.

Even More Outdoorsy Stuff.

Explore Virginia’s newest state park, Culpeper Battlefields State Park; camp, zipline or climb at Verdun Adventure Bound; charter a fly-fishing trip with Middle River Outfitters; hunt for culinary delicacies with Virginia Truffle Hunting; hike or take a tour of Virginia Bison Company at Cibola Farms; or get a view from the skies with Skyline Heli Helicopter Tours.

Cinema and Civil War History.

Culpeper was a crossroads for Union and Confederate forces, playing a key role in Civil War events. Learn more at various historic sites in the area or tour the Museum of Culpeper History. The town also happens to be home to the U.S. Library of Congress collection of historic films, and the nearby Packard Campus Theater hosts screenings of films from the silent era to modern day.

Throw In Some Throwback Fun.

For some family-friendly or rainy-day to-do’s, it’s game on at Throwbacks Arcade downtown, which boasts more than 70 classic arcade cabinets and pinballs.

Saddle up for the 4th Annual Culpeper Rodeo on August 30, check out State Climb indoor rock-climbing gym or Puzzle Room Live, an interactive, fully immersive escape room.

Visit stayculpeper.com to book a room or the Garden Cottage at West Park Gardens. Follow @westparkgardens on Instagram.

West Park Gardens is one of a variety of overnight rentals, B&Bs, boutique hotels, camping and glamping options in or near Culpeper. You can find others as well as more great ideas for things to see and do including seasonal special events at visitculpeper.com.

See also culpeperdowntown.com.