The Best 10-Day Virginia Road Trip Itinerary:

Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains are one of the most beautiful regions of the East Coast of the United States. No matter the time of year, one of the top adventures to enjoy with friends is a Virginia road trip, particularly along Interstate 81, which runs north and south through the western part of the state.

From incredible hiking opportunities to charming small towns and renowned wineries to fascinating caverns, there is so much to see and do while following a Virginia road trip itinerary through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Some of the best destinations to visit during a 10-day Virginia road trip include the Shenandoah Valley, particularly the Harrisonburg and Staunton areas, along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the lovely city of Charlottesville, and the Roanoke area.

As someone who lived in this region of Virginia during my college years, I am excited to share with you the ultimate road trip experience in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This itinerary has adventure-filled routes, local eateries, luxury accommodation options and natural beauty.

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Getting to Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains:

Enjoying a road trip through Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains can be easily done along the East Coast, especially from major cities like Washington, D.C., which is only a few hours away via car, and even New York City, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Richmond and Charlotte.

I recommend conquering this road trip from north to south, but you can explore it however you wish and in whatever way works best for you and your journey. If you are flying into Virginia to enjoy this specific mountain road trip, you must book a flight into Washington Dulles International Airport in the nation’s capital, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, VA, and Richmond International Airport in Virginia’s state capital. You can find affordable flights through Skyscanner.

Since this is a road trip, you will most likely need your own vehicle to get around, especially for the best outdoor adventures located in remote areas. If you fly into Washington, D.C. for this road trip, you’ll have to rent a car.

It is possible to get around Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains via public transportation. Staunton has an Amtrak station, and the Virginia Breeze (an inner city bus) operates in several destinations along I-81, connecting to Union Station in Washington, D.C. Once you’re in specific small towns and cities, you can utilize rideshare services and taxis to get around.

Click here if you are planning a road trip around the United States and want to rent an RV.

Ultimate 10-Day Virginia Road Trip in the Blue Ridge Mountains:

You can’t go wrong when following this 10-day Virginia road trip. It’s a superb year-round itinerary; however, please be mindful of winter conditions if you visit during that time period.

When it snows, numerous road closures occur, especially in the National Park, and black ice can pose significant safety concerns. However, if you plan to take this road trip in the colder months, you can enjoy local ski resorts such as Massanutten, located in McGaheysville (near Harrisonburg), and Wintergreen Resort, situated in Nellysford (between Staunton and Charlottesville).

If you plan to do this road trip during autumn, you can witness incredible fall foliage. Additionally, spring and summer offer stunning weather and provide opportunities for swimming.

Below is my personal Blue Ridge Mountain road trip itinerary for you and your friends to enjoy:

Day 1: Arrive in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley

Overall, Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is 200 miles long, starting from Harpers Ferry, WV, in the north, to Roanoke, VA, in the south. It’s a breathtaking valley between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east and the Allegheny Mountains to the west. Both ranges are part of the Appalachian Mountains.

The main highway that runs through the Shenandoah Valley, where you will enjoy your Virginia road trip, is Interstate 81. The most popular destination in the Shenandoah Valley is Shenandoah National Park, which can be accessed from the small mountain towns of Front Royal, Luray and Waynesboro. It boasts two famous scenic roads – Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Visit Luray Caverns:

When you first drive down into Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, I recommend first stopping at the magnificent Luray Caverns. These fascinating caverns in Luray, VA are the most extensive in the eastern USA and have been around for over 4 million years. When I first visited these incredible caves, I was bewildered by the stone columns and natural pools.

To visit Luray Caverns, it costs $36 USD for adults and teens ages 13 and older; $34 USD for seniors; $18 USD for children ages six to 12, and it’s free for younger children five and under.

When you purchase a ticket to visit Luray Caverns, you can enjoy a self-guided tour and have access to the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, the Shenandoah Heritage Village and the Toy Town Junction.

Arrive in Harrisonburg, VA:

Situated in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is a vibrant mountain city and college town, home to James Madison University (JMU) and Eastern Mennonite University. Its downtown area is renowned for being the “First Arts and Cultural District,” the “First Culinary District of Virginia” and for having an award-winning Main Street Community.

Overall, Harrisonburg is recognized for its culinary scene, craft breweries, rich culture and convenient access to outdoor adventures within Shenandoah National Park and the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

When you first arrive in Harrisonburg, I recommend enjoying Detroit-style pizza and a local beer at Pale Fire Brewing in the downtown area. From there, stroll through Downtown Harrisonburg and admire the local street art, explore Liberty Street Mercantile, stop into the Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center, have fun at Ruby’s Arcade and treat yourself to a refreshing ice cream at Kline’s Dairy Bar.

Don’t forget to also check out the Harrisonburg Farmers Market! The Spring, Summer, and Fall Market (April through November) takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm. There is a Holiday Market on the first three Saturdays in December from 9 am to 1 pm.

A Sunset Market takes place every third Thursday evening from 5 pm to 8 pm, from June through September. Lastly, there is a Winter Market held every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, running from January through March.

Later, check into the Hotel Madison, located in Downtown Harrisonburg, offering convenient access to JMU’s campus. After checking in, take a moment to settle in and relax.

The best place to have dinner on your first evening in Harrisonburg is the Joshua Wilton House. It offers an elevated dining experience, featuring dishes crafted by Chef Tom French, complemented by an extensive wine list. The menu at the Joshua Wilton House showcases Virginia’s Southern heritage with a French influence.

Day 2: Explore the Friendly City of Harrisonburg

On the second day of your road trip in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, I suggest fueling up at Magpie Diner. It’s located in Downtown Harrisonburg and offers traditional breakfast items in a 1950s tire service station. On a beautiful day, I recommend eating on their patio and grabbing a treat from the on-site bakery.

Afterward, I advise enjoying a hike in the nearby Shenandoah National Park. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay close by, I suggest walking through the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum. Part of James Madison University, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum (the Arboretum) offers a loop trail that is just shy of a mile long.

Experience Shenandoah National Park:

Overall, strolling through the Arboretum is one of the best free things to do in Harrisonburg, allowing you to admire the stunning flowers, shrubs and trees. It takes around one hour to walk around the entire Arboretum.

If you want to experience Shenandoah National Park, there are a few hikes I recommend. Old Rag Mountain Loop is the most popular and one of the top challenging trails in the state of Virginia. It is a 9.4-mile hike that includes rock scrambles, steep pathways and breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain views.

The Hawksbill Loop Trail is a great moderate hike in Shenandoah National Park. This trail is 2.7 miles and best conquered counterclockwise. What’s cool about the Hawksbill Loop Trail is that it leads to the National Park’s summit, where you can enjoy astonishing views.

For those who prefer an easy hike in Shenandoah National Park, I suggest enjoying the Blackrock Summit via Trayfoot Mountain and the Appalachian Trail. Yes, you can experience a portion of the Appalachian Trail on this hike, which spans from Georgia to Maine and vice versa.

Other great outdoor activities in this beautiful National Park are horseback riding, fishing and simply taking in all the best views on Skyline Drive. Please note that if you visit this area during autumn, you can witness the best fall foliage anytime from mid-October through early November!

Enjoy the Best of the Friendly City:

For those who don’t venture off to Shenandoah National Park, the perfect way to spend the day in Harrisonburg is to grab lunch at Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint, followed by a cider tasting at Sage Bird Cider Works.

One of the best things to do in Harrisonburg on a rainy day is to visit the state-of-the-art John C. Wells Planetarium (the Planetarium) at JMU. Visiting the Planetarium will leave you amazed by its ultra-high-resolution digital projection system. It will make you feel like you’re in outer space!

Another one of the top activities to enjoy while you’re in Harrisonburg is seeing a performance at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts. Depending on the performance, there are usually shows at 2 pm, 4 pm, 7 pm and 7:30 pm.

For dinner on your last evening in Harrisonburg, I recommend savoring a delicious meal at Clementine Café. It’s an upscale, artsy restaurant with Continental cuisine and a wide range of cocktails. Two fun places to visit in Downtown Harrisonburg after dinner are either Jimmy Madison’s or Billy Jack’s Shack.

Day 3: Wine Taste in the Shenandoah Valley and Arrive in Staunton

On your final morning in Harrisonburg, eat a tasty breakfast at The Little Grill in the downtown area. Afterward, walk off your meal on James Madison University’s beautiful campus. On JMU’s Quad, you can marvel at the picturesque bluestone buildings and on the East Campus, take in the breathtaking mountain views.

From Harrisonburg, continue your Virginia road trip south to Staunton. However, before visiting the “Queen City of the Shenandoah Valley,” I advise stopping at the beautiful CrossKeys Vineyards in Mt. Crawford. While at this family-owned 125-acre estate winery, you can go wine tasting while also savoring a mouthwatering lunch.

Check into Staunton:

If you prefer not to visit the winery, I suggest heading south on I-81 to Staunton, with a stop at Valley Pike Farm Market in Weyers Cave, Virginia. This local market is the perfect place to grab a coffee and snack, purchase local produce, homemade jams and handmade goods.

Additionally, a great place to have lunch in Staunton is Chicano Boy Taco. It offers handmade tacos, Mission-style burritos, as well as Mexican beers and canned cocktails.

From lunch, stroll through Downtown Staunton and make your way into the local shops and watch a glass-blowing demonstration at Sunspots Studios. You can see four talented glassblowers work their magic every Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. While you’re at Sunspot Studios, make a reservation for the “Blow Your Owns,” where you’ll create your own ornament or a pumpkin for $55 USD.

In the afternoon, check into the Inn at Oakdene, located in Staunton’s Gospel Hill Historic District. This luxurious boutique hotel is situated in one of the city’s most beautiful Queen Anne-style historic buildings. It was built by Virginia Lieutenant Governor Edward Echols.

One of the best places to have dinner during your first evening in Staunton, VA is Mill Street Grill. This American bistro is situated in a former flour mill, making it one of the city’s most notable historic sites. You can savor delicious meals from steak to scallops, along with renowned wine and craft cocktails.

Day 4: Experience Staunton, VA

The first stop during your second day in Staunton must be Crucible Coffee Roasters. It’s located along Lewis Creek and serves the best coffee in the city. Their morning bun is also tasty!

If you happen to be in Staunton on a Saturday from April through December, you must stroll through the Staunton Farmers’ Market.

Also, for those seeking outdoor fun in the Staunton area, I suggest hiking the Saint Mary’s Falls Trail. It’s a 4.3-mile hike that takes approximately an hour and a half to complete. It also includes swimming holes to cool off on a summer day.

A fun spot for lunch is The Green Room, located in the downtown area. Overall, The Green Room is a community space, wine bar, live music venue and more. Enjoy a variety of options, including natural wine, craft beer and cider, as well as sandwiches and charcuterie boards.

A hidden gem in Staunton is Folly Mills Falls. It’s within a short drive of the city. To see the waterfalls, a short walk is involved. (It’s worth visiting if you don’t hike earlier in the day.) There is also a longer trail, which follows the creek for 1.2 miles.

Just like in Harrisonburg, Staunton also has a Kline’s Dairy Bar. If you’re looking for a refreshing snack in the middle of the day, then I recommend trying the “Flavor of the Week.”

During your second evening in Staunton, dine at Zynodoa. It’s a farm-to-table restaurant that offers the freshest and seasonal dishes using local ingredients from the Shenandoah Valley. Most of the meals at Zynodoa are inspired by Southern cuisine, and you can also appreciate a variety of drink options.

One of the top things to do in Staunton at night is to see a performance at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse.

Day 5: Adventure Along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway

Before continuing your epic Virginia road trip, savor a tasty breakfast at Sweet Addie’s. It’s a family-run establishment offering the best Liége waffles in the Shenandoah Valley. There are a variety of sweet and savory toppings to relish with your waffle.

Hike in Central Virginia and Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway:

From Staunton, head into the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests to take on the Crabtree Falls Trail. It is one of my favorite hikes in Virginia! This moderately challenging trail is 3.1 miles and has a 1,076-foot elevation gain.

Throughout this hike, you can appreciate spectacular views of Crabtree Falls as you ascend. In fact, Crabtree Falls boasts the tallest waterfall in the state of Virginia. There are numerous photo opportunities and great views!

After your hike, enjoy a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, America’s Favorite Drive! There are multiple stops with outstanding overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Located along the parkway in Lyndhurst, VA, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging offers cozy cabins for a night nestled in the mountains. While staying in the quaint High Meadows Cabin, during my stay, there was nothing I enjoyed more than a warm bath, savoring buttery popcorn by the fire, stargazing and getting a peaceful sleep. Love Ridge also offers a variety of fun activities for everyone, from biking and fishing to bird watching and skiing in the winter. (Love Ridge is located near Wintergreen Resort!)

One of the leading places to relish a tasty meal and the best beer options, while staying at Love Ridge, is Blue Mountain Brewing in Afton. On certain evenings, you can jam out to live music and also warm up in front of one of the fire pits on the patio during a crisp night.

Day 6: Make Your Way to Charlottesville

Take a Pit Stop in Waynesboro:

On the sixth day of your Virginia road trip, head north to Waynesboro and have breakfast at Stella, Bella, and Lucy’s. Afterward, explore Downtown Waynesboro and follow the Waynesboro Street Arts Trail. It’s the best way to see the city’s incredible murals.

Once you’re finished exploring all of the talented artwork around Waynesboro, make your way into the local shops!

Waynesboro is also home to some of the top breweries that are part of the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail. One of the leading breweries to visit on your Virginia road trip, which also has delectable food items, is Stable Craft Brewing.

Drive to Charlottesville, Virginia:

In the afternoon, drive east to one of Virginia’s most beautiful cities, Charlottesville. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville was previously home to a few U.S. Founding Fathers, is where the University of Virginia (UVA) is located and boasts the Monticello Wine Trail.

Upon arrival in Charlottesville, VA, check into Kimpton The Forum Hotel. This Jeffersonian-style luxury hotel is next to the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business. After settling in, stroll through the LaCross Botanical Gardens and The Tahija Arboretum, which is situated on the hotel’s property. There are numerous walking paths, a serene pond, stunning flowers and a Japanese garden.

If you’re up for it, I suggest visiting Carter Mountain Orchard to watch the sunset over Charlottesville and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s also one of the best places for U-pick opportunities, plus you can sip refreshing cider from Bold Rock Hard Cider.

For those who wish to have a more relaxed evening, I suggest having dinner at The Forum Hotel. There are two incredible restaurants to choose from: Birch & Bloom, a sustainably sourced farm-to-table eatery with an innovative wine and cocktail list, and The Good Sport, offering tavern fare and a wide selection of craft beer options.

Day 7: Go Wine Tasting around Charlottesville

A visit to Charlottesville, VA is incomplete without starting your day off with a fantastic brunch in the downtown area. One of the leading places to have brunch in this beautiful city is Farm Bell Kitchen. Featuring elevated Southern dishes, you can savor your meal outdoors on a lovely, warm day or enjoy the cozy interior.

From brunch, walk over to the Historic Downtown Mall that spans eight blocks. It boasts ice cream parlors to wine bars and book shops to local boutiques. This charming outdoor mall is also home to the Paramount Theater.

Of course, a Virginia road trip itinerary that includes Charlottesville must also dedicate time to wine tasting. The best way to experience Charlottesville’s famous Monticello Wine Trail is to book an organized wine tour. It’s a great option if you want to visit multiple wineries in one day without worrying about transportation.

If you plan to only visit one or two wineries during your time in Charlottesville, I suggest the below:

• Jefferson’s Vineyards (President Thomas Jefferson’s winery.)
• Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards (Features award-winning estate wines and culinary experiences.)
• King Family Vineyards (Famous for crosé wine, a Merlot-based rosé.)
• Barboursville Vineyards (Renowned for award-winning vintage wines.)
• Blenheim Vineyards (Known for its sustainable, 100% Virginia-grown wines.)
• Keswick Vineyards (Awarded the “Best White Wine in America.”)
• Trump Winery (Owned by President Donald Trump’s son, Eric Trump.)

For those who prefer not to go wine tasting, I suggest touring the homes of three U.S. Presidents and Founding Fathers. You can book a tour to see Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, James Monroe’s Highland and James Madison’s Montpelier.

For dinner, head back downtown to savor an incredible French meal at Petit Pois Restaurant.

Day 8: Venture to Southern Virginia

Before heading off to the last leg of your Virginia Road Trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains, I recommend waking up to a freshly brewed coffee and a pastry at MarieBette Café and Bakery.

Witness Virginia’s Natural Bridge:

As you continue south to Roanoke, it’s a must to stop at the fascinating Natural Bridge State Park, near Lexington. It boasts the jaw-dropping Natural Bridge, which was also owned by Thomas Jefferson.

Overall, Natural Bridge is a 200-foot-high limestone gorge that is carved out by Cedar Creek. When you walk along the Lace Falls via Cedar Creek Trail, you’ll appreciate a 2-mile, out-and-back trail that leads to the gorgeous waterfalls.

Please note that it costs $9 USD for adults and teens 13 years and older to visit Natural Bridge State Park. It also costs $6 USD for kids ages six to 12, and it’s free for young children five and under.

Conclude Your Road Trip in Roanoke, Virginia:

When you first arrive in Roanoke, check into the Hotel Roanoke, one of the most historic sites in this Southern Virginia city. This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Downtown Roanoke, near many museums and restaurants.

Later in the afternoon, make memories at Center in the Square. It’s a seven-story non-profit cultural center. This fun spot has the Living Reef Aquarium, Kids Square Children’s Museum, Roanoke Pinball Museum and the Roanoke Starcade Arcade.

Center in the Square is also home to the Harrison Museum of African American Culture, the History of Western Virginia, the Science Museum of Western Virginia and the Mill Mountain Theatre. You can also enjoy dinner and drinks with a view of the city and mountains at the Six and Sky Rooftop Grille.

If you prefer to dine elsewhere in Roanoke, I recommend Well Hung Vineyard-Restaurant. It’s famous for its diverse range of dishes, along with refreshing wine slushies to enjoy on a warm day.

Day 9: Tour the City of Roanoke, VA

To all of the hiking lovers visiting Roanoke, you must conquer the area’s most popular trails – McAfee Knob. It’s famous for being the most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail and it’s best to take on this hike early, so that you can make it to the summit in time for sunrise.

McAfee Knob is a 7.9-mile, out-and-back trail that takes around four hours to complete. It includes a 1,807-foot elevation gain and is considered a challenging hike.

Whether you choose to hike McAfee Knob or not, a fabulous place to have breakfast in Roanoke, VA is at Scratch Biscuit Company. It’s located in the Grandin Village area of the city and is famous for its homemade biscuits and comforting breakfast dishes.

If you don’t dare to climb McAfee Knob and still want to hike in Roanoke, I urge you to adventure in Mill Mountain Park to the Mill Mountain Star. The Star Trail is a moderate, 3.3-mile out-and-back hike. For those who don’t want to hike to Roanoke’s famous star, you can drive to see it up close.

The best place to have lunch and a beer in Roanoke is Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen and Brewery. I suggest enjoying a flight of different craft beers. (The hot honey chicken sandwich is also phenomenal.)

In the afternoon, head to Grandin Village, which is one of the most idyllic neighborhoods in Roanoke. While you’re in this area, visit Black Dog Salvage, which has been featured on the show Salvage Dawgs. It’s a warehouse that sells antiques, restored furniture and artwork from abandoned, demolished or renovated buildings.

If you’re in Roanoke on a rainy day, then catch a movie at the historic Grandin Theatre. Don’t forget to also grab a sweet treat at Pop’s Ice Cream & Soda Bar.

Later on, head back into the downtown area to enjoy retail therapy at the historic Roanoke City Market. Also, make your way into the local boutiques, gift shops, book stores and candy stores.

For dinner, savor Italian cuisine at Fortunato, where you can indulge in Neapolitan pizzas, award-winning wine and mouthwatering pasta dishes.

Day 10: Conclude Your Virginia Road Trip

Before your Virginia Blue Ridge Mountain road trip ends, enjoy one more breakfast in Downtown Roanoke at The Hatch. It includes Southern dishes and traditional brunch plates.

Once you’re fueled up for the day, begin your journey back home.

Want to extend your Mid-Atlantic road trip? I suggest visiting the following:

• Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
• New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
• Charlotte, North Carolina

I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best 10-day Virginia road trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.

Basic Facts of the United States:

Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., VA State Capital: Richmond, Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time

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