9 Best Hidden Gems in Virginia
Virginia has some of the best-hidden nature gems from the York River State Park to the Grand Caverns. Many of these locations are also perfect for photos.
Virginia is one of the few states to have just about everything when it comes to locations for exploring, including beautiful gardens and rock formations.
I can’t believe I waited until now to travel to these beautiful places. Even though I have traveled just about every weekend around Virginia, I still have yet to scratch the surface of Virginia’s hidden gems.
How to Get Around Virginia
The easiest way to travel around Virginia and spend time at the various places that I mention in this post, is to rent a car. Many of these places like the Melrose Caverns are far away from main city centers, so renting a car is your only option to explore.
Hidden Gems in Virginia Worth Exploring
1. Blue Ridge Tunnel
The winding road up to Afton is an adventure in itself. Just wait until you arrive at the tunnel. The Blue Ridge Tunnel has two entrances that both lead into the mysterious, dark tunnel.
The first entrance has very little room to park on crowded days and also has a heck of a hike. The second entrance is a little bit easier and of course, has room for parking.
On my trip to Virginia’s famous tunnel, I tried to seek out salamanders and bats, but I didn’t go around the right time.
The tunnel is super dark and is recommended to bring your phone flashlight or a regular flashlight to find your way through the tunnel.
However, the tunnel is super safe even for dogs and little kids. I would say that it gets pretty damp inside so wearing the right shoes and clothing will help your journey go smoothly.
Address: Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail, Afton, VA 22920
2. Grand Caverns
The Grand Caverns is one of the biggest show caverns in Virginia! Grand Caverns is located in Grottoes, Virginia, which is in the middle of nowhere.
However, some of the best nature hidden gems are in less touristy areas in Virginia.
You can book the tour either in person or online. The Grand Caverns is a mesmerizing adventure that leaves all ages in awe way after the tour is over.
The tour guide will lead you through separate rooms to see different rock formations that were created hundreds if not thousands of years ago. In preparation for the tour, wear shoes that aren’t slippery as I often had to carefully walk down stone steps.
It is also a good idea to bring a jacket as parts of the cave was colder than others. You might even become lucky and see a bat or two.
Address: 5 Grand Cavern Rd, Grottoes, VA 24441
3. Natural Bridge State Park
This particular park in Natural Bridge, Virginia is actually one of the reasons people visit Virginia. The unique yet iconic rock formation can’t be recreated and goes all the way back to the Paleozoic era.
Moreover, the formation is a part of nature and not manmade, which makes it even more amazing.
Once taking in the beautiful rock formation, continue walking straight until you come across a river and bridge. I thought I was in some Indiana Jones movie when I saw the view of the bridge and the rocks.
After the bridge, there is a mile-long path that shows you a view of the water and a waterfall.
The immense popularity of the park is not an exaggeration once you’ve visited it. You do have to pay a fee to gain access to the park.
Steep areas are going downhill, which is not for people who can’t handle the hike.
Although, the park is dog and kid friendly. Make sure to clean after your pet!
4. Natural Chimneys Park
When I say that this park is in the middle of nowhere in Mt. Solon, I mean it quite literally as the way to the place has no phone service.
For Natural Chimneys, I would definitely bring someone to accompany your adventures just in case.
Once you finally arrive at the park, there is this gigantic mountain formation that isn’t hard to miss. The formation is unique in shape and nothing else can compare.
The rock is made out of limestone during the Paleozoic era, similar to Natural Bridge.
Natural Chimneys State Park is known for the limestone rocks, but it is also a great place for families to have outdoor bonding time.
I attempted to hike up the trail closest to the rock formation in hopes of seeing a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
I did make it to the top but not without being on the verge of falling several times with my non-hiking shoes. The trail isn’t very long but the way up is a challenge for people who don’t usually hike.
Besides hiking, you can camp and take part in the jousting.
Address: 94 Natural Chimneys Ln, Mt Solon, VA 22843
5. York River State Park
York River State Park is a perfect example of a hidden gem. The park is a little ways off the main road with only a few signs for guidance, but the park just happens to be in the perfect location for people who love to escape into the calming nature.
After taking a road trip to Yorktown, we stopped at York River State Park, which is ideal if you want a little breather from exploring and learning about history.
We planned to head home, but I’m so glad we stopped to rest at the calm lake. Admission into the park is not free but the fee is well worth the nature-filled getaway.
York River State Park offers horse riding, walking trails, and canoeing.
We stopped only for a brief time, but I hope to go back soon and try out some of the activities that were offered. Be prepared to have your breath blown away at the beautiful lake views.
Address: 9801 York River Park Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188
6. Maymont Park & Estate
One of the best places to go in Richmond, Maymont park is free to visit and well worth the road trip to see gorgeous gardens. Visit this post for background information on Maymont.
The park really blooms in the beauty around the spring, summer, and early fall. Maymont has Japanese and Italian gardens and is kid friendly.
Making your way toward the Japanese gardens can be challenging if you don’t wear walking shoes. But once you make it to the bottom, the fish, shrine, and bridge will be waiting.
It is best to visit during the week as it can be quite crowded with very little time to enjoy the gardens to the fullest. You can also take photos around the mansion and visit the wildlife exhibits.
Address: 1700 Hampton St, Richmond, VA 23220
7. Gypsy Hill Park
Gypsy Hill Park is located in Staunton, Virginia. The park is one of the most underrated parks in Virginia despite having so many things here including a duck pond. The park is also used for summer camps, baseball games, and Christmas lights created by local businesses.
If you’re going to visit this stunning place, go during December where the Christmas lights sparkle. You can drive through the whole park and admire the decorations.
Although, Staunton and Augusta County residents definitely take advantage of the park as a go-to place, don’t let it discourage you from going as a visitor if only just for a day.
The admission is free and is both dog and kid friendly. There is a golf course and train rides for the whole family.
8. Woodrow Wilson Memorial Park
Woodrow Wilson Memorial Park is located right across from Woodrow Wilson Memorial High School and the Shenandoah Valley Governor’s School in Fishersville.
This park is quite literally a hidden gem as people are not able to see the park from the main road.
But the locals find joy in the park being secluded by trees as it tends to be less crowded than other nearby parks. The serene place has a trail around the lake and opportunities for fishing and hiking.
9. Melrose Caverns
One of the most fascinating places to explore in Virginia is Melrose Caverns. This historical place is worth looking into, especially for people who love diving into the lives of Union soldiers during the Civil War.
Having just recently opened the caverns up for tours after many years, it is an underrated destination to soak in formations made during the Paleozoic period as well as gain insight into some of the soldiers that fought in the Battle of Gettysburg.
You might even come across some Native American carvings. This place also hosts weddings both inside the caverns and in the main building.
All of these hidden nature gems are what makes Virginia a jewel within itself. Now that I have so much time to explore, I’m taking advantage of everything that Virginia has to offer and you should too.
Hope you found this post on hidden nature gems in Virginia to be all you needed for planning your trip to Virginia.