Virginia: Mount Vernon and Meadows of Dan
- Kaitlen Daigle
- Jun 23, 2024
- 3 min read
On our road trip last year (2023), we drove from West Virginia to Virginia to stay in a cabin in Shenandoah National Park. This was one of my absolute favorite things I've ever done on a road trip. As we were driving in the park, we saw quite a few deer. After we checked into our cabin, we witnessed one of the best sunsets I've ever seen. We walked over to the lodge for some dinner and I was pleasantly surprised that they had a really good salad on the menu because a lot of our road trip food is on the go and usually fried. Once we finished our food, we walked back to the cabin and played some card games. As it became later and later into the night, a giant storm rolled in and poured rain all night long.
When we got up in the morning, it was still raining a little bit. My brother and I walked to the lodge to get some coffee. We explored a little more of the park and then we started back on the road, fighting with random spurts of torrential rain. As the weather improved, we stopped at Poor Farmer's Market in Meadows of Dan, VA. They had so many dried foods and trinkets. We bought some items from their bakery counter. After this stop, we headed on our way to North Carolina.
Important to note that I did travel to Virginia for the first time in 8th grade for the D.C. trip. When we were in Virginia that time I remember visiting Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon was the beloved home of George Washington, the first President of the United States and Revolutionary War hero. Built in the late 18th century, it features a stunning mansion with panoramic views of the river, well-kept gardens, and outbuildings that offer insight into plantation life during Washington's time. The estate has been preserved and maintained as a museum and memorial to George Washington, showcasing his leadership, legacy, and contributions to American history. Whether you enjoy nature at its finest or you love stepping back in time to learn some of our nation's history, Virginia is the place to be.
If you want to visit Virginia, here's a list of possible things to see and do:
Colonial Williamsburg: Step back in time to the 18th century in this living history museum, where costumed interpreters demonstrate daily life in colonial America.
Monticello: Visit Thomas Jefferson's historic plantation and home near Charlottesville, known for its neoclassical architecture, gardens, and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Shenandoah National Park: Explore this scenic park along the Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring Skyline Drive, hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley.
Virginia Beach: Enjoy miles of sandy beaches, waterfront activities like fishing and boating, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and the iconic King Neptune statue.
Mount Vernon: Tour George Washington's estate on the banks of the Potomac River, featuring his mansion, gardens, and exhibits on Washington's life and legacy.
Richmond: Explore Virginia's capital city, known for its historic sites like the American Civil War Museum and Virginia State Capitol, along with vibrant neighborhoods, dining, and art scenes.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Drive America's favorite scenic highway through Virginia, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Historic Jamestowne and Jamestown Settlement: Visit the site of the first permanent English settlement in America and explore a living history museum showcasing 17th-century colonial life.
Luray Caverns: Discover underground wonders in these limestone caverns near Shenandoah National Park, featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and an organ that plays music on natural rock formations.
Virginia Wineries: Experience Virginia's burgeoning wine industry with tastings and tours at wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail, Northern Virginia's wine country, and beyond.
If you want more suggestions on what to do in Virginia, I suggest you check out their tourism website.
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