Shenandoah/blueridge Advice
 

Will be in the Shenandoah/Blueridge area during march.3 kids 9,7,5. Would love suggestions on must see/do activities this time of year. Great family places to eat. And...nice place to sleep. Budget not a major issue.

We have Laray cavers on our list. Also (if that is not enough) I would like to hear about any "off the beaten track" ideas.

Hi, what cities and towns are you specifically visiting? Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge encompass a large area. How much time will you have to explore? How much do you want to drive?

A suggestion, IF you realize what you're getting into, is Shenandoah National Park. Skyline Drive is now fully open

www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/drive_status.htm

but most facilities are still closed

http://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisi...g-schedule.htm

Thus, you can drive the full 105 miles of Skyline Drive, but be aware that you'll have no place to get anything (even a bathroom) during your drive. Also, the weather in the mountains can be cold and nasty, so watch the clouds before you start.

No guarantee that your family will have six bear sightings, like I had during my visit two summer ago, but you never know.

Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge. Your kids will love it.

http://www.virginiasafaripark.com/index.htm

I would suggest staying along Skyline Drive if at all possible.At that age, my kids loved the deer, semi-rustic atmosphere and the occasional bear sighting.They often have outside activities for the kids as well - nature programs, camp fires, etc.