Skyline Drive is a scenic byway that stretches the entire length (105 miles) of Shenandoah National Park. The two-lane road has 75 overlooks, 75 opportunities to take in the amazing views of the Shenandoah beauty. The drive also provides lots of access points to trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail. Whether you're the kind of person that likes to hike to a peak or the kind of person who appreciates beauty through a window while sitting in air conditioning, Skyline Drive is for you. In October the drive is especially great for leaf peeping! When we drove Wes' truck from Arkansas to Virginia we spent hours on Skyline Drive (the speed limit is 35 miles per hour) and had such a hard time pulling ourselves away and back on route. Some entry points to Skyline Drive have entrance fees (I believe per vehicle, so consider brining a buddy and splitting costs!).
We actually briefly considered this location for our wedding. This pick your own lavender field is an adorable, beautifully fragrant, experience. For kids (or kids at heart!) this destination also has a small collection of animals you might want to check out.
2 huge warehouses full of new books at discounted prices! Need I say more?
collection of local shops including a toy store (with unique and vintage toys), a mennonite grocery store (with free samples, unique snack foods and bulk candy), and a jam/jelly shop (with free samples of all their 60+ jams. I have to limit my kids' samples while we're here or they'll try every jam!) valley pike farmers market- they have a coffee shop, a small collection of local beers and wine and an ice cream and fudge counter.