Sharing the LOVE along I-95 - Ashland to Northern Virginia Gateway Welcome Center

By beginning in the Town of Ashland and heading North, visitors are close to many of Virginia's most LOVEable stops along I-95. There's history, hot-air balloons, craft beer, Kings Dominion, and the birthplace of Secretariat - plus 4 LOVEworks!

Day 1

Known by locals as the Center of the Universe this itinerary starts in Historic Ashland at the Downtown Visitor Center. Take your picture at the train-inspired LOVEwork and pick up a self-guided walking tour brochure to explore the city.

Fill your day with a plethora of chef/family owned eating establishments, historic sites or even a Balloons Over Virginia ride. Learn about the story of Ashland through words, images, voices, and objects at the Ashland Museum. or take a walking tour. Walking tours are also available. 

Explore the house and grounds of Patrick Henry's Scotchtown. Enjoy a birding trail, shop in the museum store, eat lunch under thepavilion or participate in one of the site’s many hands-on classes and special events.

Enjoy a cold local-brew at Center of the Universe Brewing Company before resting in one of their charming inns or bed & breakfasts.

Eat:

Stay

Day 2

Continuing north, spend Day Two exploring in Hanover & Caroline Counties with stops at the Bass Pro Shop, Kings Dominion amusement park, and the Meadow Event Park (the birthplace of Triple Crown Winner Secretariat). There are LOVEworks just waiting for Instagramable moments at the Kings Dominion Camp Ground and Meadow Event Park.

With 400 acres packed with more than 60 rides, shows and attractions for all kinds of explorers and age groups, Kings Dominion is the ultimate destination for family fun.

North Anna Battlefield offers trench works with rifle pits, which are considered among the most pristine Civil War earthworks in existence. 

An attraction itself, Bass Pro Shop features gorgeous waterfalls, giant aquariums, incredible wildlife mounts, quality products and more.

Eat:

Stay

Day 3

Wrap up your I-95 journey at the Northern Virginia Gateway Welcome Center LOVEwork - now decorated with a special graphic tribute to the 50th Anniversary of Virginia is for Lovers! From NOVA Gateway you could continue to explore in the quaint, small towns of Historic Bowling Green and Port Royal or head Northwest to Winchester where more Virginia LOVE awaits!

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