Residents of Virginia and thrill-seekers from all over have been anxiously awaiting the opening day of The Claudius Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel. The tunnel itself was once part of a historic railroad built during the 1850s, before the invention of dynamite. There’s another surprising twist to this attraction- those who enter must bring flashlights and headlamps. Be brave- the tunnel isn’t lit! After your trip through the tunnel, you can enjoy plenty of activities and interesting places to visit on both sides of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Once your eyes re-adjust to the light, head to downtown Waynesboro for one of three self-guided walking tours: the Tree Street Tour, the downtown historical tour, and the mural Waynesboro Pick up a card at the Waynesboro department of tourism on 301 West Main Street for more information.
Next, visit the nearby Russell Museum. The museum, which encompasses 32,000 square feet, houses sculptures of Mark Twain, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and photos and documents from Swannanoa Palace.
Another interesting Waynesboro attraction is the Wildlife Center of Virginia. The hospital is not open to the public, but free open houses take place throughout the year. For another wildlife experience, head south to view majestic birds at the Rockfish Hawk Watch. The Watch is one of over 200 in North America and collects data during the birds’ fall migration. The site is easy to access and takes place each fall at the Inn at Afton. It’s possible to drive to the location, park, and watch the hawks. Enjoy the 180-degree views of Rockfish Gap, the Piedmont, and the Shenandoah Valley.
Visit Afton Mountain Vineyards next. This beautiful vineyard is one of Virginia’s first farm wineries, and some of their first vines are still producing today. The gorgeous winery provides spectacular scenery as you wind down from the pace of Waynesboro. Nearby Veritas Vineyard and Winery to learn how the grapes are grown and how their wines are made. If hard cider is your passion, Nelson County boasts three cideries: Bryant’s Small Batch Hard Cider, Blue Toad Hard Cider, and Bold Rock Hard Cider offer crisp, refreshing hard cider.
Travel on Nelson County’s picturesque Route 151 and stop at Dickie Brothers 151 Farm Market. Grab fresh apple cider, tomatoes, jellies, apple butter, pumpkins, tomatoes, and check out their selection of fresh apples straight from the orchard.
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Last Updated: 09/28/2020
What's Nearby
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1412 West Broad Street
Waynesboro, VA 229800.48 MI
