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7 Transformative Virginia Experiences for a Fresh Perspective in 2018

Gaining perspective means viewing the world from a new angle. It's often subtle, unnoticed until challenges prompt us to rethink routines and beliefs. These shifts can enlighten, inspire, transform lives—or feel daunting. Yet, they reveal true priorities and reignite forgotten appreciations.

Discover seven extraordinary experiences across Virginia, curated to uplift, thrill, impress, and challenge. Seeking a viewpoint refresh? These are our top #VAtravel recommendations for 2018.

 

STEVEN F. UDVAR-HAZY CENTER, NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM

From dream to reality, human flight is showcased daily at the Udvar-Hazy Center. This Smithsonian annex displays thousands of aviation and space artifacts chronicling flight's history—including Space Shuttle Discovery, the record-breaking Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird (world's fastest plane), two IMAX theaters, and a planetarium.

Add-ons:

  • Enjoy a pint and bites from rotating food trucks at Mustang Sally Brewing Co.
  • Stroll Old Town Alexandria and savor sunset dinner on the waterfront.
  • Explore Virginia Wine Country; Loudoun County boasts over 40 wineries.

 

NATURAL BRIDGE STATE PARK

Once hailed among the Seven Natural Wonders of the Modern World, Natural Bridge towers 215 feet over Cedar Creek, carved by an ancient underground river. Sacred to the Monacan tribe, passing through this historic arch delivers awe-inspiring wonder.

Add-ons:

  • Descend 34 stories into Natural Bridge Caverns (constant 54°F—bring a sweater).
  • Experience quirky fun at Mark Cline’s Dinosaur Kingdom II.
  • Dine on award-winning farm-to-table fare at The Red Hen in downtown Lexington.

 

MCAFEE KNOB

One of the Appalachian Trail's most photographed spots, McAfee Knob offers panoramic Catawba Valley views from 3,400 feet up. This moderate 4.4-mile hike from VA-311 parking features gradual inclines—not for the faint-hearted. Summit rewards? Breathtaking vistas and the perfect profile pic spot.

Add-ons:

  • Celebrate with craft beer at Big Lick or Parkway Brewing in Roanoke.
  • Tackle Dragon’s Tooth and Tinker Cliffs for Virginia’s Triple Crown.
  • With 90,000 annual visitors, practice #LeaveNoTrace to preserve Virginia's beauty.

 

SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK STARGAZING

"Half the Park is After Dark," per the National Park Service—and they're spot on. Blue Ridge's crisp air amplifies starry sparkle. Big Meadows offers prime viewing; join NASA ambassadors and astronomers for guided Milky Way tours year-round. No better cosmic contemplation spot than a starlit mountaintop.

Add-ons:

  • Reserve at Skyland Resort for guided horseback rides.
  • Camp at Big Meadows (spring-fall) near three waterfalls.
  • Hike Hawksbill Mountain, park's tallest peak (milepost 45.6).

 

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

Step into 18th-century America at the nation's largest living-history museum. The Historic Area recreates colonial life with authentic buildings, traditions, cuisine, and reenactors using period grammar. Meet George Washington, witness Fife and Drums, fire a flintlock musket, or carriage-ride for immersion. Mind your manners exiting to the present!

Add-ons:

  • Lunch at Merchants Square's Cheese Shop—exceptional.
  • Shop Williamsburg Premium Outlets and Pottery.
  • Tour Williamsburg Winery; sip Acte 12 Chardonnay amid American wine history.

 

GRAYSON HIGHLANDS STATE PARK

"We're not in Virginia anymore." At nearly 5,000 feet, rocky outcrops and vistas evoke Montana. Mid-June rhododendrons bloom pink; wild ponies roam open balds. Texas Longhorns help maintain trails in summer. This unique ecosystem stands out statewide.

Add-ons:

  • Leashed dogs welcome—practice #LeaveNoTrace.
  • Zip-line Creeper Trail in Whitetop, then bike 18 downhill miles to Damascus.
*Adorable ponies? Resist feeding! Human food harms health and fosters dependency. Keep them wild for all.

 

CHANNELS NATURAL AREA PRESERVE

Navigate 400-million-year-old mossy sandstone labyrinths, shaped by Ice Age permafrost and ice wedging. Imagine the forces fracturing this caprock into your trail.

Add-ons:

  • Leashed dogs permitted—practice #LeaveNoTrace.
  • Visit 1790 White’s Mill for history and stoneground flour.
  • Catch Barter Theater, then old-school ice cream floats at Pop Ellis Soda Shoppe.

 

What deserves the 2019 list and why? Share in the comments!

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