Points of Interest between Alexandria, Virginia to Harrisonburg, Virginia

picture of Alexandria, Virginia

Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Alexandria, Virginia to Harrisonburg, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Alexandria, Virginia to Harrisonburg, Virginia? This scenic drive will take you through beautiful landscapes, quaint towns, and charming historic sites. Whether you're driving solo, with a friend, or with a family, here are some of the best places to visit on your way to Harrisonburg.

From Alexandria take I-495 W and follow I-66 to exit 283 towards Front Royal. Then, follow US-340 S and VA-649 W to get to Harrisonburg.

Explore the National Parks and Scenic Drives

The drive from Alexandria to Harrisonburg is a scenic one. You'll pass through beautiful mountains, rolling hills, and access the Shenandoah Valley. Take advantage of the national parks and scenic drives on this road trip.

  1. Shenandoah National Park - The park is located just off of Skyline Drive. It is home to stunning landscapes, including cascading waterfalls, deep forests, and panoramic views. Take a hike, enjoy a picnic, or camp overnight in one of the many campgrounds.

  2. Skyline Drive - A 105-mile scenic drive running through the length of Shenandoah National Park, this drive will take you through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive is particularly stunning in the spring, when the trees and flowers are in full bloom.

  3. Luray Caverns - Head underground to explore one of the largest and most popular caverns in the eastern United States. You'll be amazed by the subterranean world of stalactites, stalagmites, and natural sculptures. Don't forget to check out the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the only instrument in the world that plays music from the natural formations in the cave.

Historic Sites and Museums

The drive from Alexandria to Harrisonburg is also full of rich history. From colonial-era architecture to Civil War battlefields, this area has a lot to offer history buffs.

  1. Staunton - A charming city with Victorian architecture, Staunton is home to the historic downtown, which features a plethora of boutiques, cafes, and bookstores.

  2. American Shakespeare Center and Blackfriars Playhouse - Check out the world-renowned Shakespeare theatre located in Staunton. The Blackfriars playhouse, a replica of a 17th-century theatre, showcases theatre in the way it was meant to be experienced.

  3. New Market Battlefield State Historical Park - Visit the Civil War battlefield and spot the historical agents that still remain preserved to this day.

  4. Monticello - Located in Charlottesville, Monticello is the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence. The estate features stunning gardens, historic architecture, and exhibits that give you a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of America's founding fathers.

Conclusion

The area from Alexandria to Harrisonburg is full of natural beauty, rich history, and scenic drives. Whether you're driving solo, with friends, or family, there's something for everyone on this road trip. Make sure to check out some of these top attractions, and you'll have an unforgettable experience.