From Winchester to Staunton: 10 Attractions Worth the Stop off I-81

Whether you are driving down I-81 for a quick day trip or simply passing through, this 95-mile stretch of road has a surprising amount of attractions that make for great pit stops. Take a break and venture off Interstate 81 when making the drive between Winchester and Staunton to visit a few of these interesting and fun destinations.

Patsy Cline Historic House

Exit: 315

Take a tour of famed country singer Patsy Cline’s home, which is located in Winchester. The preserved home is a testament to the star’s humble roots and stands as a monument to one of the most beloved entertainers of all time. Although she moved to Nashville to pursue her musical career, Patsy Cline lived at the Winchester home longer than any other place, and she always considered the town her true home.
 

Keep exploring: Top things to do in Winchester
 

Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

Exit: 315

The Shenandoah Valley plays a significant role in the history of Virginia, and the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley has over 11,000 artifacts from the region in its permanent collection, including paintings, textiles, ceramics, and furniture. The museum aims at preserving the cultural identity of life in the Valley through its collection and a series of rotating exhibits. Don't miss the Glen Burnie House, which dates back to the 18^th century and is bordered by seven acres of gardens. 
 

Start your adventure: More affordable activities in the Shenandoah Valley
 

Dinosaur Land

Exit: 313A

This quirky stop has been around for over 50 years, and while some of the dinosaur statues definitely show their age, it doesn’t stop Dinosaur Land from being any less entertaining. Step into the souvenir shop before entering the park and roam aisles of peculiar knick-knacks, from fireworks to stuffed dinosaurs to collectable minerals and gemstones.

Once you finish up in the shop, begin your tour with a picture in the mouth of the large shark statue and a pose in front of the Dinosaur Land sign. Walk around the park and read about dinosaurs that roamed the earth millions of years before us. If you have kids, this is a must-visit destination along I-81.
 

Get inspired: More one-of-a-kind attractions in Virginia
 

Belle Grove Plantation

Exit: 302

The estate of President James Madison’s sister Nelly and her husband, Isaac Hite, Belle Grove Plantation may not be as famous as Monticello, Mount Vernon, or Montpelier, but the estate is an interesting hidden gem. The historic plantation was built in 1797 and sits just north of Shenandoah National Park on 283 acres. It originally sat on 7500 acres of land that was used for growing crops, raising cattle, and operating a distillery along with several on-site mills.

Take a tour of the Manor House and the surrounding outbuildings to learn about the history of enslaved labor on the plantation and the settler cultures of the Shenandoah Valley.
 

More history: Historic homes in Virginia
 

Virginia Caverns

Exit: Multiple exits listed below

There are several caverns just a few miles off of I-81 between Winchester and Staunton. No matter which one (or ones!) you visit, you’ll be astounded at the natural beauty of these remarkable landmarks.

Heading north to south along the interstate, you’ll find these caverns off of the respective exits:

• Shenandoah Caverns: Exit 269
• Endless Caverns: Exit 264
• Luray Caverns: Exit 264
• Grand Caverns: Exit 235

Virginia Museum of the Civil War

Exit: 264

The Virginia Museum of the Civil War displays relics tells the story of the Civil War in Virginia, focusing specifically on the Battle of New Market and the role local Virginia Military Institute cadets played in the conflict. Take in the museum, then explore some of the walking trails on the surrounding 300-acre battlefield park. 
 

Keep planning: More Civil War history in Virginia 
 

Massanutten WaterPark

Exit: 247A

Bring along your swimsuit and cool off at Massanutten WaterPark. With over 80,000 square feet of both indoor and outdoor water park attractions, your kids will love this detour. Eight water slides, an Adventure River, hot tubs, and endless perfect waves on the Flow Rider will keep the family entertained for hours.

Those that want to stay dry can check out the state-of-the-art arcade, filled with the latest games and entertainment. If you decide to take a break from all the driving, stay overnight at this gorgeous Virginia resort and make it a complete family vacation only a few miles off of I-81.
 

Dive In: More waterparks in Virginia
 

Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum

Exit: 225

Another interesting stop off of I-81 is the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. It is located adjacent to President Wilson’s birthplace museum, a pre-Civil War manse that was converted to a museum, and both are open for tours.

The museum follows the story of Wilson’s life, through significant moments that include his time as a professor and his Presidency. There is an interactive World War I trench exhibit that includes authentic weapons, a display of Wilson’s family heirlooms, and visitors can even check out President Wilson’s Pierce-Arrow limousine. Stretch your legs even further with a walk through the boxwood gardens.
 

More history: Presidential attractions in Virginia
 

Sunspots Glass Blowing

Exit: 225

The art of glass blowing is a skill that few have mastered, and watching these experts create beautiful glass sculptures is something everyone should experience at least once. Stop by Sunspots Studios in downtown Staunton for live glass blowing Wednesdays through Sundays.  

Have more time? Make reservations to try your hand at the craft with a Blow Your Own Ornament experience taught by the glass blowers. 

Frontier Culture Museum

Exit: 222

The Frontier Culture Museum explores the history of farming and rural life, not just of Virginia or the United States, but throughout the world. Once only four farms, the outdoor museum has grown to include eight farms, a blacksmith forge, a schoolhouse, and a church. Each of these exhibits displays a select time period from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries in Ireland, England, West Africa, Germany, America, and even a Blue Ridge exhibit that shows how Native Americans may have used the region.  

Outdoor displays are complete with the livestock, breed animals, crops, and tools used, as well as the buildings and gardens that would have existed during the time periods. Learn about the history of agriculture while enjoying the scenic landscape of the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton.
 

More family fun: Family-friendly guide to Staunton

With so many interesting pit stops, it may take you more than a day to travel this Virginia road.