Hidden Gems Places To Visit in Virginia, United States

1. 5.0 Fort Chiswell Animal Park (99 reviews)
   - Nice Little Zoo, Especially for Children.
   Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Zoos
   
   
   Fort Chiswell Animal Park is your chance to get up-close and personal with animals from around the globe including Puff the Camel, Zelda the Zebra, and many more through the guided safari bus tour. The zoo also includes a petting zoo, picnic area, and gift shop. See more..
   
2. 5.0 The Carter Fold (97 reviews)
   - A requirement for old-time music fans.
   Historic Sites • Theatre & Performances
   
   
   I admit that we stopped here during the week so the Fold was closed. But we did see the street signs named for songs, the ouside of A.P.'s birthplace, and a few outdoor history boards. I've loved the Carter Family recordings since I was teenager and finally got to see Poor Valley and Clinch Mountain. Also saw the graves at the Methodist Church. If you love this music I highly recommed you see these things. See more..
   
3. 5.0 R.H. Ballard Shop & Gallery (95 reviews)
   - Soaptastic!
   Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops • Art Galleries
   
   
   Award-winning boutique shop & gallery located just steps from the Inn at Little Washington. A shopper's paradise. Two floors filled with an artful mix of fine gifts, French table linens, vintage objects, women's accessories, children gifts, home decor, regional & international fine art, sculpture, one-of-a-kind rugs. See more..
   
4. 5.0 Primland Resort Golf Course (90 reviews)
   - Very nice
   Golf Courses
   
   
   This was the best weekend get away I think I have ever had. The staff was spot on the facility was spot on. There is not one thing I think they could have done better. Already planning our return. See more..
   
5. 5.0 Keystone Tractor Works (89 reviews)
   - Totally amazing experience, A must see for an automotive enthusiast.
   Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums
   
   
   The Keystone Truck and Tractor Museum was an unexpected surprise. First it is enormous, with an entire area of immaculately restored tractors in rows by manufactures. They even had lawn mowers, snow blowers and toy trucks on display as well. There were three other warehouses that had everything from tractor trailers, fire trucks, wreckers and a soft drink truck. Again all immaculately restored with very good descriptions on them. This is a private collection and the owner was even at the museum speaking with people touring the museum. The gift shop was nicely stocked with toys signs and clothing. The clerk was very knowledgeable and friendly, Admission was a very affordable 10 dollars and parking is free plentiful and easy to access. I would highly recommend this as a stop. We go to many museums and were totally amazed by this one. See more..
   
6. 5.0 National Museum of the Civil War Soldier (87 reviews)
   - Great Historic Battleground Museum
   Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Military Museums
   
   
   Featuring the engaging National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, Tudor Hall Plantation, a recreated Military Encampment, and some of the best preserved earthworks in existence, this 424-acre park relives the life and times of a soldier during America's "War Between the States." See more..
   
7. 5.0 Library of Virginia (87 reviews)
   - Hope to Return
   Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Libraries
   
   
   I had not been to the Library of Virginia and popped in just before closing time on a recent visit to Richmond. It looks extremely well organized with plenty of helpful staff. I hope to return, when I have more time, to do genealogical research. See more..
   
8. 5.0 Elevation Sports (86 reviews)
   - Greatest place to have family fun
   Thursday: 1:00 PM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers
   
   
   Elevation Sports is the Shenandoah Valley's premier provider of Bubble Soccer, Combat Archery, and Nerf Wars. We provide Unforgettable Experiences by offering unique, family-friendly recreational activities that promote health and wellness through physical exercise! Enjoy walk-in Pay & Play as well as pre-booked reservations with your family or a group of friends! Also offering Party & Event reservations for exclusive use of our facilities! See more..
   
9. 5.0 James Madison Museum (82 reviews)
   - A MUST "DO" !!
   Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums
   
   
   A presidential and cultural museum that features the Presidents Room, Black History Exhibit Room, a small gallery and a Temporary Exhibit Room. In the Presidents Room you will enjoy artifacts of Madison, Jefferson, Monroe and Z. Taylor. The Black History Room has 3 themes (Forgotten Patriots, Atlantic Slave Trade and Post-Emancipation). The biggest surprise for nearly every visitor is the large Hall of Agriculture and Transportation. In this large wing sits a 1730's house originally built for Gov. Alexander Spotswood for a tenant farm in Orange; a 1924 Model T and horse-drawn conveyances as well as a myriad of farm implements and items used during pre-mechanized farm life. Groups are welcome. See more..
   
10. 5.0 Tidewater Charters (80 reviews)
    - The Best
    Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Fishing Charters & Tours
    
    
    I went out with Tyler Nonn and Tidewater Charters twice in the Keys in February 2021. I strongly recommend Tidewater Charters to both experienced anglers hunting a trophy fish and those looking to take the family out and keep the rods bent. Tyler kept us moving and on the fish - he quickly assessed whether we were in a productive spot and wasn’t afraid to leave fish to find better ones. We also went tarpon fishing at night on a second trip, and each of us on the boat landed our 1st tarpon (not a small feat). Apart from his angling experience, Tyler was great to be with on the boat and provided a wealth of knowledge on the fishery and conservation. Great boat, great equipment, and the best captain. See more..
    
11. 5.0 Autobahn Axe Throwing (79 reviews)
    - Autobahn Manassas!
    Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers
    
    
    Gary greeted us when we first arrived was very helpful. We did a 3 race package and each race was more fun than the previous one and Daniel was a bad-ass! Thanks for your help! When we arrived and paid for our race, Gary offered us a car for 5 free Axe throws in their axe throwing area. That was fun as well. This place was very clean and the staff was all very friendly and helpful. Even though it is a little far from our house, we will definitely be back. See more..
    
12. 5.0 River City Escape Room (77 reviews)
    - Family Reunion Fun!
    Thursday: 12:30 PM - 8:45 PM Spent < 1 hour Escape Games
    
    
    Located in Richmond, VA, River City Escape Room is Richmond’s ultimate interactive escape experience. A team of 2-10 players will use their intellect and wit to decipher clues and puzzles in order to escape the room within sixty minutes. Do YOU have the skills to escape? Book a room for your next party, night out with family and friends, or your next company team building event. See more..
    
13. 5.0 Indian Summer Guide Service - Private Tours (73 reviews)
    - Great activity for all ages!
    Private Tours
    
    
    A big thank you to Indian Summer Guide….What a great way to spend a warm summer day but under a canopy of trees in the shade! We had previously done a winery horse tour in September, and enjoyed it so much we decided to do the back county trail ride with a group of family and friends. Ashton and his guides were super helpful and paired us up with great horses to match our experience level. I would highly recommend this adventure ride for any experience level of riders and ages. Time to start planning another ride! See more..
    
14. 5.0 I Love Kickboxing (71 reviews)
    - Tough but so worth it!!
    Thursday: 6:00 AM - 12:15 PM, 5:00 PM - 7:45 AM Spent 1-2 hours Sports Camps & Clinics
    Kickboxing is something I always wanted to try, and when I say they had a 6 Week Challenge it seemed like the right time to start something new. The staff at iLoveKickboxing - Winchester is awesome!! They are so sweet, told me I didn't even look my age. They push us beyond our limits to help us grow and be successful. They are kind and helpful to those of us who are a little inexperienced. After a week and a half of classes, I feel good and would highly recommend them! Thanks to Alyson and Haley, and all the staff. Y'all are rockstars!! See more..
    
15. 5.0 Little Washington Spa (71 reviews)
    - Great way to top off an anniversary trip to LW
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Spas
    
    
    Little Washington Spa is located in the historic village of Washington, Virginia. Spa offerings include a variety of bodywork including therapeutic massage, hot stone massage, reflexology, energy healing, nail treatments, skincare treatments (facials and waxing) and hair care. We offer online appointments and instant gift cards for your convenience. We have a massage instructor on staff so you and a friend can take professional massage lessons (please be sure to book this service in advance). Wellness Packages are available and can be viewed on our Wellness Menu. See more..
    
16. 5.0 Blue Blaze Bicycle & Shuttle Service (70 reviews)
    - VA Creeper Shuttle Service - Use Blue Blaze
    Gear Rentals
    
    
    Excellent service. Called to make a mid-week reservation for my wife and I to ferry us and our bikes to the top of Whitetop Mountain ($20 each cost). We initially made a reservation for Thursday but later changed this to Tuesday after a weather report. No issues changing days and they did not ask for a credit card up front like some other companies. Very professional service with advise being given on temps at the mountain top and where to come off the trail in Damascus to get back to our parked car. They have their own car parking area next to the store. Wonderful fall colors and scenery. One of the most enjoyable bike rides we have ever done and well worth the shuttle cost. First 11 miles is all downhill and you basically don't need to peddle, just brake and steer. Go mid-week for a less crowded ride. Everyone we met was so friendly and just out to soak up the fun. A must do and we plan to do this again when we can get back to this area. Will use these guys again. See more..
    
17. 5.0 Virginia Hang Gliding (70 reviews)
    - Incredible experience with a great team
    Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
    
    
    My boyfriend and I drove out 4 hours from D.C. for this experience and it was everything (more) than we hoped for. They confirmed our reservation by calling prior to our drive out, and promptly set us with instructions and safety gear upon our arrival. This was definitely a bucket list item for my boyfriend, whereas I was a bit more apprehensive for a slight fear of heights. Don, Dallas, and our pilot were so professional and communicative that I really felt instantly safe and at ease. I will never forget this experience and am so grateful to the Virginia Hang Gliding Team for making it so memorable and positive. Would give 10 stars if the limit wasn’t 5. See more..
    
18. 5.0 Sundial Books (69 reviews)
    - Great Bookstore!
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Sundial Books is a locally owned full-service bookstore on Chincoteague Island. Our inventory includes new books and best-sellers, local and regional books, used and collectible books, music CD's, gifts, cards, local art more. We have two floors of books and plenty of comfy seats so you can take your time and find your next great read. Check our website for a calendar of upcoming events including book signings and author events. Order new books online at when the store is closed or you are away from Chincoteague. See more..
    
19. 5.0 Raptor Hill Falconry (68 reviews)
    - Raptor Hill Falconry is Unforgettable
    Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    If you ever need to remember what wonder feels like, arrange to spend an evening at Raptor Hill Falconry. I was there yesterday with my husband and two friends, and all four of us will cherish the time we spent with Jennifer and her amazing birds. Jennifer is deeply knowledgeable about falconry, as we learned during the first hour of our visit when she told us about the history of the sport; the differences between hawks, eagles, and owls, on the one hand, and falcons, on the other; and about her innovative training methods. And then she introduced us to Lily, who flew about her territory and came to rest repeatedly on our outstretched arms. The pictures Jennifer took caught the pure wonder on our faces as we watched at such close range a creature of great power and beauty. A visit to Raptor Hill is worth every cent you'll spend for an experience you'll never forget. See more..
    
20. 5.0 Loose Shoe Brewing Company (67 reviews)
    - Best Home Brew
    Thursday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries
    
    
    Loose Shoe Brewery is a microbrewery offering 12 revolving taps of unique and delicious craft beer made on the premises. The brewery offers pints, half pints, and flights in our spacious and comfortable taproom with growlers available for purchase to fill and take home. We also offer 32 oz. crowlers to go. Visitors are welcome to bring food from any of the local restaurants or from home to enjoy while quenching their thirst. Our patio will feature music most weekends and provide some fun in the sun with our custom made corn hole boards. Hours: Wed. 3-7, Thur. 3-9, Fri. 3-9, Sat. 12-10, and Sun. 2-7. See more..
    
21. 5.0 NextStop Theatre Company (67 reviews)
    - Professional quality
    Thursday: Theaters
    
    
    A professional live theatre company less than 5 minutes from Washington's Dulles Airport where none of the 114 seats is more than 25 feet from the stage. See more..
    
22. 5.0 Virginia Musical Museum (64 reviews)
    - A Hidden Gem in Williamsburg
    Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
    
    
    This museum is very interesting and well planned. As others have said, it features many different kinds of musical instruments and a "hall of fame" for Virginia born artists. Mr. Parker, the owner/founder, was a charming and knowledgeable host, offering explanations for many of the items but also giving us ample time to explore on our own. We highly recommend this museum for adults and children alike. See more..
    
23. 5.0 Barns of Rose Hill (64 reviews)
    - Music and stories make a wonderful presentation.
    Concerts • Theatre & Performances
    
    
    Barns of Rose Hill is a vibrant 501(c)(3) nonprofit performing arts venue and community center located in historic downtown Berryville, Virginia. Our venue was formerly two historic dairy barns from the early 20th century that have been respectfully restored and renovated into one unique building with superb acoustic engineering and modern amenities. We offer a diverse variety of free and affordable programs throughout the year for people of all ages. Our programs include live music, exhibits, films, workshops and classes, jam sessions, community programs, and more to fulfill our mission to enrich lives through programs in the performing, visual, and literary arts. See more..
    
24. 5.0 Chincoteague Bay Field Station (64 reviews)
    - Biking on Chincoteague and Assateague Islands
    Speciality Museums
    
    
    The Chincoteague Bay Field Station, formerly the Marine Science Consortium, is a non-profit environmental learning center located on Virginia's Eastern Shore. The Field Station provides learning adventures that explore wildlife and marine environments through hands-on education. Visit the Field Station for eco-tours, summer camps, family programs, kayaking and cycling tours, adult workshops, marine science field studies and boat trips. The center is located on Wallops Island VA and just minutes away from Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. See more..
    
25. 5.0 Zephaniah Farm Vineyard (63 reviews)
    - Historic winery
    Thursday: Wineries & Vineyards
    
    
    Zephaniah is a family owned Farm Winery on a forth generation working farm about 5 miles from historic downtown Leesburg, VA. The Vineyard is named for the wine maker's great grand father, Zephaniah Jefferson Hatch. We hand craft wines from estate grown grapes and a few select grapes grown by good friends and neighbors. Our primary tasting room is in our 200 year old Quaker built home. Our guests enjoy relaxed seated tastings of 6-8 wines which generally last one hour or more. Groups of 6 or more people require a reservation. Children must be closely supervised by an adult at all times. Leashed dogs are welcomed on our grounds but no dogs allowed in the tasting room. open hours: 12:00- 5:30 Friday, Saturday and Sunday and Federal Holiday Mondays. See more..
    
26. 5.0 Pfeiffer Riding Stables (63 reviews)
    - If you have never rode a mustang, now is the time.
    Thursday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Horseback Riding Tours
    
    
    Take a relaxing, guided trailride on our 150-acre waterfront farm located in historical Cape Charles, VA. Come see multiple views of Kings Creek as we meander through miles of wooded trails. In this peaceful setting we often see wildlife including deer, fox and a variety of waterfowl. Our expert guides will pair you with just the perfect horse! We have horses for all sizes and experience levels. Come take a ride with us! See more..
    
27. 5.0 Menokin (62 reviews)
    - A stunning Virginia historical site! Do not miss it.
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
    
    
    Menokin's mission is to use the historic ruin and the surrounding built and natural environments to transcend the traditional house museum experience. We use contemporary methods to create opportunities for the public to contemplate and explore the building of America. This National Historic Landmark includes hiking trails, a kayak launch, Visitors Center, and more. See more..
    
28. 5.0 Slover Library (61 reviews)
    - Good stop for genealogy and architecture buffs
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Libraries
    
    
    Housed in a former post office, the old building is grand, with a beautiful reading room by the local history/genealogy collection. The (connected) new building is also attractive and worth a look. Spent two enjoyable afternoons researching here, and the staff was VERY helpful and pleasant. There is a convenient (although not cheap) parking garage right around the corner. See more..
    
29. 5.0 Hungry Mother Adventures (60 reviews)
    - Awesome
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing • Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
    
    
    I booked my zip line adventure over a week in advance. Once the experience was a few days away, the weather was looking questionable. Tyler reached out to offer the chance to reschedule. The adventure was truly amazing. Five zip lines of varying lengths/speeds with beautiful views made for a great time. Tyler was a great guide and extremely knowledgeable. Would definitely do again if I’m ever back in the area. See more..
    
30. 5.0 Bicycle Junction (60 reviews)
    - Great Trail Ride!
    Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gear Rentals
    
    
    Family in the Boone area recommended we try the Creeper Trail. So glad we did! 10 of us ranging in ages from 20 to 57 took it on. After searching for bike rentals and reading reviews, I chose the Bike Junction because it was the first place when you come off the trail. It was a great choice! Staff was friendly and helpful. Bikes were all in good condition. They helped us all pick the style of bikes we wanted, made adjustments if necessary and loaded us up. Paul drove us to the top and unloaded us and off we went. We went on Tuesday and the trail was great, not crowded at all. We stopped at several places along the way and made it down in about 3 hours. Staff recommended a few local places and we chose Damascus Diner. Enjoyed that as well. Thank you to Bicycle Junction. A great time was had by all! See more..
    
31. 5.0 Steamboat Era Museum (60 reviews)
    - SO much fun, such a great volunteer staff
    Temporarily closed - Closed until Mar 31, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums
    
    
    The museum is open April 1 to May 30 and September 9 to November 14 on a Friday thru Monday schedule. During the summer June 2 to September 5, we are open Thursday thru Monday. Hours are 10-4 except Sunday 1-4. The Steamboat Era Museum opened its doors in 2004. It tells the story of the steamboats and how they altered the lives of everyone along the Chesapeake Bay. The steamboats provided an economic lifeline. The cities of Norfolk and, more predominately, Baltimore acted as gateways to the world beyond. The cities provided the markets, the towns provided the goods, and the steamboats provided a means to both. The era is brought to life with models, artifacts, photos . Here you can step back into time; a romantic time full of adventure, splendor and prosperity. Coming this year! The Pilothouse of the Potomac has been restored and will take pride of place in the museum! See more..
    
32. 5.0 Eastern Shore Boat Tours, LLC (60 reviews)
    - Wonderful tour
    Boat Tours • Eco Tours • Private Tours
    
    
    We had a great time touring the islands with captain Pete! He is very knowledgeable and the boar rose is crazy beautiful. I recommend pairing it with a trip to the barrier island center to have the history he will share with you come to life. We went with our kiddos ages 5-10 and they loved it. Totally recommend exploring this unit part of the shore with captain Pete! See more..
    
33. 5.0 Barrier Islands Center (57 reviews)
    - Off the beaten path, a hidden gem
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops • History Museums
    
    
    HEART OF THE COMMUNITY, SOUL OF A CULTURE It is a gathering place, graced by weathered porch rockers that welcome you into an art gallery and gift shop rivaling New York’s finest. It is a creative educator, grounding small-town children in history and the arts while big-city kids savor a taste of country life. It is a museum that shelters yesterday’s culture of the islanders and watermen, and it is a farm that follows today’s best practices to cultivate the land. Yet it is, most of all, a storyteller, safeguarding the wisdom of our past for the sake of the Eastern Shore’s future. See more..
    
34. 5.0 Moss Arts Center (57 reviews)
    - World class facility
    Architectural Buildings
    
    
    State of the art facility & event venue. It's a bit of a walk from any parking however, so carry your high heels and walk there in your flats! See more..
    
35. 5.0 My Neighbor And Me (57 reviews)
    - Great Little Store for Fair-Trade Items
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    My Neighbor and Me LLC is a fair trade gift shop dedicated to selling hand-crafted goods created by marginalized producers of the Global South while providing a fun environment interacting with neighbors. See more..
    
36. 5.0 Chincoteague Island Library (54 reviews)
    - Beautiful library
    Spent 1-2 hours Libraries
    
    
    I felt weird walking into a library where I wasn’t a member, but was very glad I did. It is a nice little building on the outside and it is beautiful on the inside. The staff there are wonderful! Very friendly! There’s a little area for people to buy stuff too. Well worth checking out! See more..
    
37. 5.0 Danville Historical Society's Guided Walking Tour (53 reviews)
    - Tours still offered!
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Historical & Heritage Tours
    
    
    Tours still being offered! Call the phone number to set up a tour date and get sent an information packet. I was unsure if they were still offering these tours but I am glad that I called. The tour of millionaires row was great and there there were lots of cool details that I would have never learned about without our great tour guide Joyce. Would definitely recommend for outsiders like us to get a good feeling of Danville's history See more..
    
38. 5.0 Troika Contemporary Crafts (53 reviews)
    - Wonderful Craft Shop
    Thursday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Art Galleries
    
    
    Troika Contemporary Crafts is a gallery that strives to show excellent regional and local hand made objects. Jewelry, ceramics, woodworking, furniture, blacksmithing, textiles, prints, lamps, and books represent a majority of work in our shop. See more..
    
39. 5.0 Benjamin Walls Gallery (50 reviews)
    - Amazing Photography!
    Thursday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries
    
    
    Experience the signature gallery of internationally recognized artist Benjamin Walls. • Seven International Awards • Exhibits in 50 museums in 12 countries • Five-time Smithsonian exhibitor • Collectors include Grammy award winners, Fortune 500 CEOs, Hollywood producers, and politicians alike • A results-oriented environmentalist and community advocate, Benjamin has helped raise over $350,000 for charity since 2010. Allow one of our friendly art consultants to share Benjamin's work with you! Also offering boutique luxury trips-- destinations include East Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, with other destinations coming soon. These are NOT photo trips, but luxury trips that focus on a premier experience of the destination. See more..
    
40. 5.0 Gull Hummock Gourmet Market (50 reviews)
    - Great wine!
    Thursday: 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Gull Hummock is a friendly gathering place for those looking for fine wines, cheeses, craft beers, artisan breads, locally made chocolates, and gourmet and gluten free foods. Join us for a Complimentary Wine Tasting which take place each Friday 4:30-6:00 and Saturday 3:30-5:30, See more..
    
41. 5.0 Star B Stables (49 reviews)
    - Great place to go horseback riding!
    Equestrian Trails
    
    
    We went on an hour long ride on a Friday afternoon and it was lovely. Cowboy Carl was patient and friendly with my youngest child and I as he told us how to hold the reins and sit in the saddle. The cost ($50 per person-cash or check only) was in line with other rides we have been on. We rode over grassy fields, up and down hills, and across a large creek-twice. Highly recommend Star B Stables for horseback riding! See more..
    
42. 5.0 Whitley's Peanut Factory (48 reviews)
    - Amazing service at Gloucester VA Whitleys location
    Thursday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Our retail outlet stores are OPEN and following the recommended CDC, state, and local COVID-19 guidelines for retail establishments, including requiring masks for all who are not fully vaccinated. Whitley's "Home-Cooked" peanuts have a wonderful, crunchy freshness and distinctive flavor because our peanuts are still made the old-fashioned way-hand cooked, slowly roasted to perfection. Since 1986, Whitley's Peanut Factory has been producing the finest quality gourmet Virginia peanuts and peanut candies on the market. We have three retail stores in Williamsburg, Gloucester, and Richmond, Richmond, VA. See more..
    
43. 5.0 Wilderness Canoe (48 reviews)
    - Great trip with beautiful scenery!
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Kayaking & Canoeing
    
    
    My family of 7 (6 adults and one 12 year old) went of the Alpine to WCC trip in 2 inflatable rafts and 2 inflatable kayaks. It was July so the the water level was low and slow so the rafts did get stuck some. The inflatable kayaks did awesome and I would highly recommend!! They were easy to paddle and alot of fun!! Overall, this is a very easy trip with a few low level rapids and alot of calm stretches in between which require quite a bit of paddling. AS I said, we went July 3 so it was low and slow but a beautiful trip where we could relax and see the Virginia scenery. The river was also very clean with very little seaweed and no snakes or anything that we saw ( a plus with a family of 5 daughters!!) See more..
    
44. 5.0 Shenandoah Mountain Guides (48 reviews)
    - A Unique Mountain Experience
    Canyoning & Rappelling Tours • Climbing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Private Tours
    
    
    If you want a truly unique experience in the Shenandoah NP...Andy is your guy! No matter your age or experience, Andy will make you feel safe and comfortable in whatever adventure you choose. We are a family of 4 and Rock Climbed with Andy last summer and had such an amazing experience we rushed back this past July to mountain swim with Andy...natural rock water slides, cliff jumping, repelling down waterfalls...getting to experience the park like you would with no other guide. Andy is very knowledgeable and teaches you about every aspect of the natural world around you. Andy is also very patient and great with kids, taking time to teach them things along the journey. I can’t wait to get back to the Shenandoah to experience my next family adventure with Andy and Shenandoah Mountain Guides. See more..
    
45. 5.0 The Ugly Oyster Tour Co. (48 reviews)
    - Fun,fun,fun
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Distillery Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Beer Tastings & Tours • Wine Tours & Tastings
    
    
    What a wonderful tour!! Hillary is a awesome guide.. I would recommend everyone going on this tour it’s so worth it!! See more..
    
46. 5.0 Wade's Mill (47 reviews)
    - American history
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops • Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    Wade's Mill is Virginia's oldest operating commercial grist mill and has been stone-grinding grains since 1750. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register. We stone-grind premium and heirloom grains into flours, grits, cornmeal and a range of specialty mixes. Our products are available in our Mill Shop, along with selected local food products and gifts. During opening hours, visitors can enjoy a free tour and explore three floors of historic milling equipment and museum displays. We run the 21-foot waterwheel and historic milling equipment Saturdays and Sundays 10-noon. We are a small, family-owned business and enjoy welcoming our visitors to the Mill. A visit to Wade's Mill makes a great family outing in the scenic Shenandoah Valley. Admission and parking are free and we have lovely gardens with a picnic area. Friendly dogs are welcome outside/on the grounds on a leash. See more..
    
47. 5.0 Ragged Branch Distillery (46 reviews)
    - Amazing Bourbon
    Thursday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries
    
    
    Conveniently located just minutes from Charlottesville and the University of Virginia, our tasting room sits on a knoll that offers year-round, breathtaking mountain views. Take a self-guided tour of the Still Barn to learn about our distillation process, visit the Barrel Barn, and finish your visit in our Tasting Room where you can sample our handcrafted bourbon and purchase our Black Angus beef. See more..
    
48. 5.0 Warehouse Art Gallery (45 reviews)
    - Large warehouse with many artists' works
    Art Galleries
    
    
    I just found the gallery while driving by. The warehouse is much bigger than expected from the street frontage. Painters in several media, fabric art, pottery and sculpture artists are represented. The front desk staff let me wander and browse at leisure without hovering. See more..
    
49. 5.0 Moving Meadows Farm (45 reviews)
    - Quaint place for lunch
    Spent < 1 hour Farms
    
    
    We were desperate to find any restaurants with gluten free options. Found one only to arrive to find it closed on a Saturday for lunch!! Right next door was this quaint Mom/Pop shop! We are all here from out of town and so our group of 16 came thru like a hungry hurricane! Wally, the owner, was so kind, patient and generous. My daughter has Celiac so needs gluten free options. Mr. Wally offered her an off menu item called Keto Victoria- fluffy eggs, sautéed onions, sausage, spinach with mustard. Delicious and filling! Since it was chilly, she asked about the hot chocolate. Mr. Wally brought out the large bag of organic hot chocolate mix so we could look at the ingredients! The rest of group got various items and it was the perfect, light lunch we needed! Highly recommend! See more..
    
50. 5.0 Shenandoah Moon (44 reviews)
    - This is for the guys!
    Thursday: Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Shenandoah Moon specializes in clothing, jewelry and accessories that reflect today's growing interest in global textiles. Our selection of hand-dyed batik clothing from Indonesia, silk and cotton jackets from India, and jewelry and other accessories from around the world is stylish and affordable. If you're looking for something "Shenandoah Valley Made", you'll find jewelry, candles, soap, yarn, and more from more than two dozen local artists, plus a wide selection of beads and findings. Sign up for a jewelry making or fabric dyeing class, book a private party with four or more, or just drop-in to make a memento of your visit. Shenandoah Moon is located in the basement of the historic Fitch/Long building, c.1880, Which is adorned by artistic moons, stars, and shutters. Open Friday and Saturday from 11am-5pm or by chance or appointment. See more..
    

What's a Hidden gem?

We call places hidden gems that are new, extremely good, but are not that popular yet - you should check them out. The criteria is to have a rating of 4.5 or more and more than 20 reviews and less than 100 reviews.