12 Best Things to Do in Luray, VA for Families near Luray Caverns and Shenandoah Valley
Welcome to Luray, VA, a charming town in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley. Perfect for family getaways, Luray offers a variety of fun-filled adventures and attractions. From the world-famous Luray Caverns to the breathtaking natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park, there’s something for everyone in Luray.
In this blog, we will delve into the exciting attractions and adventures that Luray has to offer. From whimsical storybook trails to historical treasures, you’ll discover the 12 best things to do in Luray, VA, and create unforgettable family memories.
Exploring Luray Caverns
Regarding remarkable natural wonders, Luray Caverns is an extraordinary attraction that captivates visitors of all ages. Let’s embark on a journey deep beneath the surface and discover the enchantment that awaits in this underground realm.
Luray Caverns is a mesmerizing subterranean maze located in Luray, VA. This underground marvel is a perfect destination for families seeking an unforgettable adventure. Its magical ambiance and awe-inspiring formations spark the imagination and curiosity of young and old alike. Exploring Luray Caverns offers a unique opportunity to witness the earth’s hidden treasures firsthand.
Unique Features and Formations in the Caverns
Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking sights within Luray Caverns. Its unique features include majestic stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and draperies that seem like works of art sculpted by nature. The Great Stalacpipe Organ, a one-of-a-kind musical instrument, creates eerie, melodic tones by tapping on stalactites throughout the caverns. These remarkable formations and the ethereal beauty of the underground landscape will leave you in awe.
Luray Caverns, one of the best on the east coast, is home to many captivating features that will leave you in awe. Let’s uncover some of the highlights:
- Dream Lake: This expansive body of water may deceive observers with its 18-20 inches shallow depth. Its pristine clarity creates a mirror-like surface, reflecting the hanging stalactites and giving the illusion of a hidden realm beneath.
- Saracen’s Tent: Delicate and ornate, these formations resemble a silk pavilion, transporting visitors to a realm of enchantment with their intricate patterns.
- Titania’s Veil: Discover the elegance of this cascading sheet of water, resembling a bridal veil and exuding ethereal beauty.
- Wishing Well: A captivating sight within the caverns, this 6-foot-deep pool collects donations through coins and bills. The accumulated funds are annually donated to charitable causes.
- Giant’s Hall: Witness the awe-inspiring Double Column, towering at 47 feet. It showcases the magnificent union of stalactite and stalagmite formations, leaving visitors spellbound by its grandeur.
Exploring Luray Caverns does involve some walking, but fear not, as it caters to visitors of various fitness levels. The paths are well-maintained, and the pace is comfortable, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience fully. Comfortable footwear is recommended to navigate the slightly uneven terrain, ensuring a pleasant journey through the caverns.
Luray Caverns and its underground wonders are just the beginning of the incredible adventures that Luray, VA, offers. Here are some supportive articles about Luray Caverns that may help you on your next adventure!
Your Complete Guide to Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns vs. Skyline Caverns – Which Shenandoah Valley Cave System Is Better Visiting?
Fun-Filled Things To Do in Luray, VA
Get ready for a thrilling and unforgettable journey as we explore the exciting adventures and attractions that the Luray area has to offer. From storybook trails to wildlife encounters, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant town.
Massanutten Storybook Trail
Photo by Loren Biser
Discover the picturesque Massanutten Storybook Trail, nestled in Luray, Virginia. This .9-mile interpretive trail offers a paved path, inviting hikers, walkers, and nature enthusiasts to an unforgettable experience.
- Immerse yourself in the enchanting surroundings of stunning rock formations and abundant greenery throughout the seasons.
- Cross over a charming wooden footbridge, adding to the trail’s charm and tranquility.
- Learn about the geological history of the Massanutten Mountain Range through informative signs along the way.
- Discover how this magnificent mountain range evolved from the sand on the ocean floor over 400 million years ago, shaped by time and pressure into sandstone, shale, and limestone.
- Appreciate the impact of erosion, which carved the breathtaking valleys and ridges that define the landscape today.
- Ascend to the observation deck, located just .4 miles from the parking lot, and prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring mountain overlook.
- Marvel at the panoramic views that rival those found in Shenandoah National Park, offering a sense of grandeur and natural splendor.
- Take in the magnificent vistas of the Massanutten Mountain, and enjoy the serenity and tranquility of the surroundings.
Garden Maze
Get lost in the excitement of the Garden Maze. This captivating labyrinth challenges your navigation skills as you navigate through twists and turns. Discover hidden corners, solve puzzles, and enjoy the thrill of finding your way out. It’s a delightful experience for the whole family.
Explore the largest hedge maze in the Mid-Atlantic states at Luray Caverns, with a one-acre ornamental garden filled with eight-foot-tall hedges.
Discover fountains, hidden tunnels, and a lookout tower along the way. Navigate over 40 diverging points on the half-mile pathway created by over 1500 evergreen hedges. Seek hidden goals and unravel the maze’s intriguing secrets.
The Garden Maze is accessible to individuals with mobility needs. Recommended for wheelchair users, mobility scooters, and strollers with wide tires. Beat the heat with the mist and embark on an unforgettable maze exploration.
Luray Singing Tower and Carillon
Photo by Dipsey
Marvel at the majestic Luray Singing Tower and Carillon. Standing at an impressive height, this iconic structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding Shenandoah Valley. Enjoy the melodic tunes produced by the carillon of 47 bells, creating a captivating symphony that fills the air.
The Luray Singing Tower, also known as the Belle Brown Northcott Memorial, was built in 1937 to honor Colonel T.C. Northcott’s wife.
Standing at a towering height of 117 feet, the Luray Singing Tower houses a magnificent carillon with 47 bells. The bells range in size from the impressive 7,640-pound, six-foot diameter largest bell to the delicate 12 1/2-pound smallest bell.
Visitors can enjoy regularly scheduled recitals performed by the staff of Carillonneur, Dr. Andrea McCrady, and guest musicians throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons. It is open to the public and admission-free.
The carillon’s location in a park opposite Luray Caverns provides a picturesque setting for the musical performances.
The recital season encompasses diverse musical genres, including patriotic tunes, folk melodies, hymns, classical compositions, original carillon pieces, and popular songs. The Luray Singing Tower is a musical marvel and a cultural hub, hosting community events and services at its base.
Hawksbill Greenway and Carriage Caravan Museum
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Hawksbill Greenway. This scenic trail winds through picturesque landscapes, offering opportunities for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. Adjacent to the greenway, the Carriage Caravan Museum showcases a collection of vintage carriages, providing a glimpse into the rich history of transportation.
Hawksbill Greenway
Photo by Bill McChesney
The Luray-Hawksbill Greenway, an award-winning urban trail, offers a tranquil escape amidst the scenic beauty and wildlife of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Spanning two miles, the greenway features well-maintained trails, open spaces, and picturesque rest areas, providing an ideal setting for peaceful walks, wildlife observation, or jogging.
Ruffner Plaza, located along the greenway, is a vibrant hub for local music festivals and community events, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Bird enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the Luray-Hawksbill Greenway is part of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, offering opportunities to spot over 200 species of resident and migratory birds.
Hawksbill Creek, flowing through the greenway, provides a haven for anglers interested in fly fishing. The creek is home to various fish species, including Trout, Smallmouth Bass, and Bluegill, making it a favorite spot for fishing enthusiasts.
The greenway maintains Category “A” trout fishing status and is regularly stocked throughout the year, ensuring ample opportunities for a rewarding fishing experience.
As the greenway attracts walkers, runners, and families with children, cyclists are advised to exercise caution, adhere to appropriate speeds, and yield the right of way to pedestrians.
Carriage Caravan Museum
Photo by Daderot
Adjacent to Luray Caverns, visitors can explore a unique specialty museum showcasing rare antique automobiles.
The museum’s remarkable collection includes an 1897 Mercedes-Benz, one of the oldest operating cars in the country, a 1908 Baker Electric, a precursor to the Chevy Volt, and a luxurious 1925 Rolls Royce associated with silent film star Rudolph Valentino.
Car enthusiasts and history buffs alike will be captivated by the museum’s display of automotive heritage and the chance to admire these meticulously preserved vintage vehicles.
Luray Valley Museum & Shenandoah Heritage Village
Photo by LittleLuckyMd
Step back in time at the Luray Valley Museum. Explore exhibits that showcase the region’s heritage, including artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. Find trinkets and presents at their gift shop. Gain insights into the lives of early settlers and learn about the cultural and historical significance of Luray and its surrounding areas.
The Shenandoah Heritage Village is a living history museum that offers a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings and artifacts collection. Explore the restored structures, interact with costumed interpreters, and better understand the region’s rich cultural heritage.
It is a meticulously recreated seven-acre site. The Luray Valley Museum is housed in the main building, showcasing decorative arts, clothing, early toys, and daily life artifacts from the 1750s to the 1920s.
- Admire the collection’s centerpiece, a 1536 Swiss bible, symbolizing the connection between early settlers and their European heritage as they sought religious freedom in Page County and the Shenandoah Valley.
- Visit the Elk Run Meeting House, which served as barracks for Union and Confederate soldiers during the Civil War, bearing witness to its history through scattered signatures on the interior walls.
- Discover the circa 1885 Hamburg Regular School, one of Virginia’s oldest surviving African-American one-room schoolhouses, reflecting the region’s diverse history.
- Engage in the region’s gem mining history at the Stonyman Mining Company Gem Sluice, where you can participate in an interactive lesson on how pioneer prospectors unearthed gold and valuable gems.
- The gardens are adorned with rare heirloom plants, fruit trees, and a small vineyard, where vibrant blooms like nigella, wallflowers, foxgloves, and sunflowers enchant visitors.
- Marvel at the Luray Caverns Vineyard, with its first plantings in 2013, recreating the pre-1900 valley life and adding to the village’s authenticity.
- Entrance to Shenandoah Heritage Village is included in the general admission for Luray Caverns, ensuring an unforgettable journey into the past.
Bear Mountain Ziplines
Experience an exhilarating adventure at Bear Mountain Ziplines in Luray, VA, where you can unleash your inner thrill-seeker.
- Embark on the Mama Bear Zipline tour, featuring seven ziplines spanning 2700 ft, propelling you through the lush forest canopy at speeds of up to 35 miles an hour.
- Enjoy the breathtaking last stretch of 1000 ft, soaring over a picturesque meadow and landing on the tower above the impressive 3-story Bear Scramble climbing wall.
- Begin your journey with a scenic ride up the mountain road aboard a rustic tractor, creating a sense of anticipation for the adventure ahead.
- Familiarize yourself with the zipline safety gear and procedures during a training session on the dedicated zipline.
- Your safety is a top priority, as the professional guides have undergone comprehensive training in accordance with the Association of Challenge Course (ACCT) requirements.
- Participants must weigh between 70 and 250 lbs and be at least eight years old to enjoy the Mama Bear Zipline.
- For those seeking a thrilling climbing experience, the Bear Scramble Climbing Wall welcomes guests weighing between 50 and 300 lbs.
Luray Zoo
Luray Zoo is a special Rescue Zoo committed to providing a loving and nurturing home for needy animals. The zoo is funded through admissions, donations, and gift shop sales. It receives no government funding. The animals at Luray Zoo include retired zoo animal ambassadors, animals from conservation programs, unwanted pets, confiscated animals, and, unfortunately, sometimes abused animals.
Luray Zoo is situated on approximately 3 acres and offers a cozy and shaded environment for visitors. One of the zoo’s highlights is the close proximity to the animals, which both children and adults appreciate.
The dedicated staff are always available to engage with visitors, share their knowledge, and answer questions. Throughout the year, the zoo hosts various events, keeper talks, and demonstrations, providing additional educational opportunities for visitors.
Upon entering the zoo, guests are greeted by the gift shop, where the admission counter is conveniently located. Inside the zoo are over 80 reptile exhibits, boasting one of the largest collections of venomous snakes on the East Coast. Outside, visitors can explore more than 20 exhibits featuring various animals, including primates, felines, birds, and mammals.
The zoo also features a petting zoo where visitors can interact with and feed the animals. Animal feed for the petting zoo is available for purchase at the zoo. Guests contribute directly to the ongoing support and rescue efforts for these remarkable creatures by visiting the zoo.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park
Photo by Michael Rivera
Located amidst the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Luray, Virginia, provides an unforgettable camping experience for the whole family. Spread across 73 scenic acres; the park is conveniently located near popular attractions like Luray Caverns and Shenandoah National Park, offering exciting day trip opportunities.
At the park, there’s never a dull moment. Kids and adults alike can cool off and blast at the splash pad and three swimming pools or experience the thrill of zooming down our massive water slides.
Additionally, the park offers an 18-hole mini golf course, gem mining experience, arcade, pedal boats, fishing pond, jumping pillows, laser tag, outdoor movie theater, sports facilities, playgrounds, and much more to keep everyone entertained.
With a range of activities and amenities, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Luray is the perfect destination to create lasting memories and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Shenandoah River Activities
Indulge in an array of exciting activities on the scenic Shenandoah River. Whether kayaking, rafting, canoeing, tubing, or fishing, the river provides ample opportunities for water-based adventures. Relax, unwind, and create lasting memories amidst the tranquil beauty of the river.
These fun-filled adventures and attractions in Luray ensure that there’s never a dull moment during your family getaway. From cultural experiences to outdoor thrills, Luray offers a treasure trove of excitement for visitors of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Luray Caverns good for kids?
- Yes, Luray Caverns is a great destination for kids. They will be fascinated by the stunning underground formations and the unique geological features. The caverns offer an educational and awe-inspiring experience for children of all ages.
- Which is better, Shenandoah or Luray Caverns?
- Both Shenandoah National Park and Luray Caverns offer distinct experiences. Shenandoah National Park is renowned for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. On the other hand, Luray Caverns provides a captivating underground adventure with its magnificent caves and breathtaking formations. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences and interests.
- Where can I stay in Luray that will not break the bank?
- Luray offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets. Some affordable options include budget motels, cozy bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds in the area. Researching and comparing prices, reading reviews, and booking in advance can help you find affordable lodging options in Luray.
- What is Luray, VA, known for?
- Luray, VA, is primarily known for its stunning natural wonders, particularly Luray Caverns. These caverns are famous for their intricate formations and the Dream Lake, which creates a mesmerizing mirror effect. Luray is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and charming small-town atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Luray offers a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for families. From the enchanting underground world of Luray Caverns to the outdoor adventures in Shenandoah National Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The interactive and educational aspects of the attractions make it a memorable experience for children and adults alike.
Plan a trip to Luray, VA, and discover the beauty and wonder it has to offer. Whether you’re seeking natural wonders, family-friendly adventures, or a peaceful nature retreat, Luray has it all. Create lasting memories with your loved ones as you explore the unique attractions and immerse yourself in the charm of this picturesque destination.
