Virginia is a state full of hidden gems and secret places to discover. Whether it be a wooded trail that leads to a gorgeous overlook, a little-known swimming hole, or perhaps an out-of-this-world restaurant, the Old Dominion is just full of surprises. If you’d like to experience some of the best kept secrets in the state, take a trip to any of the following spots scattered throughout the state:
- The Hidden Garden Oasis
Birdsong Pleasure Garden/TripAdvisor A collection of private gardens in Luray offers one of the most peaceful and gorgeous views in the state. Known collectively as the Birdsong Pleasure Garden, these sites feature flowers, mountain views and plenty of places for reading and reflecting. For more information on this site, including directions, click here.
- Virginia’s Hidden Boardwalk Hike
J David H /TripAdvisor If you’re interested in meandering trails, marshy coastlines, and spectacular bird-watching, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is the place for you. Plus, it’s the perfect destination for leisurely stroll followed by a scenic picnic. Learn more about this gorgeous natural oasis here.
- Little Switzerland
Wikipedia Few people realize there’s a county in Virginia whose nickname is “Little Switzerland.” And once you’ve experienced the soft rolling hills of Highland County, you’ll understand why. To learn about the activities that can be enjoyed in this unique corner of the state, click here.
- Virginia’s Hidden Gem Of A Small Town
visitdamascus/Instagram A beloved Appalachian Trail community, the town of Damascus is located in southwestern Virginia near the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina. You don’t necessarily have to be an outdoor enthusiast to appreciate all that this “trail town” has to offer. To learn more, click here.
- Caledon State Park
Virginia State Parks/flickr Located in King George county awaits one of the most picturesque state parks in Virginia. Caledon offers over 2,500 acres of land featuring wetlands, forested areas, boardwalks and more. To learn more about Caledon State Park, click here.
- Virginia’s Secret Concrete Fleet
bobistraveling/flickr Relatively few know about the nine concrete ships just off the coast of Kiptopeke State Park. These nine concrete fleets are relics from the U.S. Maritime Commission during World War II. Seen from the park, they create quite a stunning vision. For more information about this historic landmark, click here.
- Carvin’s Cove
carobe/flickr Outside of locals, few realize just how exquisite Carvins Cove is. With is teal-blue waters, this mountain reservoir lends itself to all sorts of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a memorable place to canoe or a scenic hike, you can easily spend all day at this Shenandoah Valley gem. For more information, click here.
- The Shack Restaurant
Virginia.org This teeny-tiny restaurant is one of Staunton’s best kept secrets. Inside, you’ll discover a world of culinary brilliance hiding behind an unpretentious exterior. The menu changes almost daily, so you’ll never know what seasonal treats are in store. For more information, click here.
Have you visited any of these lesser-known sites in Virginia? If so, be sure to share your experiences with us!
Birdsong Pleasure Garden/TripAdvisor
A collection of private gardens in Luray offers one of the most peaceful and gorgeous views in the state. Known collectively as the Birdsong Pleasure Garden, these sites feature flowers, mountain views and plenty of places for reading and reflecting. For more information on this site, including directions, click here.
J David H /TripAdvisor
If you’re interested in meandering trails, marshy coastlines, and spectacular bird-watching, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is the place for you. Plus, it’s the perfect destination for leisurely stroll followed by a scenic picnic. Learn more about this gorgeous natural oasis here.
Wikipedia
Few people realize there’s a county in Virginia whose nickname is “Little Switzerland.” And once you’ve experienced the soft rolling hills of Highland County, you’ll understand why. To learn about the activities that can be enjoyed in this unique corner of the state, click here.
visitdamascus/Instagram
A beloved Appalachian Trail community, the town of Damascus is located in southwestern Virginia near the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina. You don’t necessarily have to be an outdoor enthusiast to appreciate all that this “trail town” has to offer. To learn more, click here.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Located in King George county awaits one of the most picturesque state parks in Virginia. Caledon offers over 2,500 acres of land featuring wetlands, forested areas, boardwalks and more. To learn more about Caledon State Park, click here.
bobistraveling/flickr
Relatively few know about the nine concrete ships just off the coast of Kiptopeke State Park. These nine concrete fleets are relics from the U.S. Maritime Commission during World War II. Seen from the park, they create quite a stunning vision. For more information about this historic landmark, click here.
carobe/flickr
Outside of locals, few realize just how exquisite Carvins Cove is. With is teal-blue waters, this mountain reservoir lends itself to all sorts of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a memorable place to canoe or a scenic hike, you can easily spend all day at this Shenandoah Valley gem. For more information, click here.
Virginia.org
This teeny-tiny restaurant is one of Staunton’s best kept secrets. Inside, you’ll discover a world of culinary brilliance hiding behind an unpretentious exterior. The menu changes almost daily, so you’ll never know what seasonal treats are in store. For more information, click here.
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