Virginia Circle Tour - NEED HELP
Mar 16th, 2009, 01:04 PM
#21
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Luray Caverns is your best bet for the caves if you've never been to any before.
Just make sure you give yourself enough time to simply drive around the western part of the state (ie Skyline Drive) and take in the scenery.
If you enough seeing estates/homes, then go for it. If not, there's plenty of other stuff to see.
Just make sure you give yourself enough time to simply drive around the western part of the state (ie Skyline Drive) and take in the scenery.
If you enough seeing estates/homes, then go for it. If not, there's plenty of other stuff to see.
Mar 16th, 2009, 02:04 PM
#23
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I read that Cape Charles and Kiptopeke park had good beaches and swimming, and that's why I allowed for 3 nights in this
area. I hope thats right. I read Virginia Beach wasn't
as nice for swimming, but I'm sure we'll explore this
area too on a day trip.
area. I hope thats right. I read Virginia Beach wasn't
as nice for swimming, but I'm sure we'll explore this
area too on a day trip.
Mar 16th, 2009, 03:28 PM
#25
Wow, ehovis, that is one impressive list you have going!
The Va Museum of Fine Arts is a sweet and eclectic gem of a museum, same goes for the Chrysler. There's a little restaurant right around the corner from the VMFA that we really like, Zues Gallery. Also you're an easy couple of blocks from Cary Street which is home to some fun one-off shops and restaurants.
Adjacent to the Mariner's Museum in Newport News is the Peninsula Center for Fine Arts. It's worth a look although I was sorry to see them raise their admission fee recently. Everyone, including the arts, is hurting for $ these days so I understand. PCFA does have free admission one night a week I think.
The only item I, personally, would cross off your list is Michie Tavern. It's a haven for tour buses, the food is unpleasant and overpriced. JMO. It's a natural stop for lunch between visiting Monticello and Montpelier but you could pack a picnic or tailgate. If you're interested in the "tavern" experience I'd recommend one of Colonial Wimbg's over Michie. The food is better (still pricey) but the ambiance is much nicer.
The Va Museum of Fine Arts is a sweet and eclectic gem of a museum, same goes for the Chrysler. There's a little restaurant right around the corner from the VMFA that we really like, Zues Gallery. Also you're an easy couple of blocks from Cary Street which is home to some fun one-off shops and restaurants.
Adjacent to the Mariner's Museum in Newport News is the Peninsula Center for Fine Arts. It's worth a look although I was sorry to see them raise their admission fee recently. Everyone, including the arts, is hurting for $ these days so I understand. PCFA does have free admission one night a week I think.
The only item I, personally, would cross off your list is Michie Tavern. It's a haven for tour buses, the food is unpleasant and overpriced. JMO. It's a natural stop for lunch between visiting Monticello and Montpelier but you could pack a picnic or tailgate. If you're interested in the "tavern" experience I'd recommend one of Colonial Wimbg's over Michie. The food is better (still pricey) but the ambiance is much nicer.
Mar 16th, 2009, 04:54 PM
#26
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I'd have to agree with the suggestion to skip Michie Tavern - we live here and once was more than enough for us! The Williamsburg taverns are a much more 'authentic' experience, and there are so many other great places to eat or take out in the Charlottesville area!
Mar 17th, 2009, 04:39 AM
#27
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One night in Richmond likely isn't enough, given what you want to see there. The VMFA could be a full afternoon (I love the Faberge exhibit). Maymont and Lewis Ginter can be quick, but it's far more enjoyable to linger and appreciate them.
I don't see that anyone recommended Lexington (http://www.lexingtonvirginia.com). It's close to the Parkway, home to VMI and W&L, cute downtown area, pretty surroundings, nice B&Bs, historical sites, etc.
I don't see that anyone recommended Lexington (http://www.lexingtonvirginia.com). It's close to the Parkway, home to VMI and W&L, cute downtown area, pretty surroundings, nice B&Bs, historical sites, etc.
Mar 17th, 2009, 05:55 AM
#28
It depends what type of swimming you like. Kiptopeke is on the Chesapeake Bay so there really aren't any waves. The bay can also get a lot of jellyfish in the summer. I don't know if they are gone by Sept. Virginia Beach has beaches on the bay and the ocean. Cape Charles is lovely but unless you are going for some quiet and downtime, you may find yourself getting bored. There is a good kayak outfitter there if you enjoy that. I might be able to find the info if you need it.
Vote 3 here against Michie, blech.
Vote 3 here against Michie, blech.
Mar 17th, 2009, 11:36 AM
#31
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No Michie, thanks for the inside info.
I had read so much negative info on Virginia Beach from
Tripadvisor that it was too touristy. Is there another
beach area that isn't a row of hotels, where we might
find a B & B, or a quaint town not far from the beach
would do.
I didn't see anything in Lynchburg except a Childrens
Museum and a few Estates in AAA. What would you suggest
seeing there?
Thank you !!!!
I had read so much negative info on Virginia Beach from
Tripadvisor that it was too touristy. Is there another
beach area that isn't a row of hotels, where we might
find a B & B, or a quaint town not far from the beach
would do.
I didn't see anything in Lynchburg except a Childrens
Museum and a few Estates in AAA. What would you suggest
seeing there?
Thank you !!!!
Mar 17th, 2009, 01:09 PM
#32
Virginia Beach is the largest city in Virginia so there are many different areas. The boardwalk portion of Virginia Beach is a lot like Rehoboth but bigger and a lot nicer than Ocean City Md. if that gives you some idea. Since you will have a car you can stay at the boardwalk and drive out to the Sandbridge area of Virginia Beach for a day at the beach. It isn't as touristy.
Mar 18th, 2009, 06:27 AM
#33
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I put a link to Lynchburg in another post, but I will put it again. It has more to offer in my opinion than Roanoke, although you may just be spending the night in Roanoke.
http://www.discoverlynchburg.org/
I would also recommend Virginia Beach over Cape Charles, but I kind of like the whole touristy beach scene. There are quiet areas, though, as Birdie mentioned. At the time of year you will be there, I think you will not find it to be crowded anyway. The crowds seem to vanish after Labor Day.
http://www.discoverlynchburg.org/
I would also recommend Virginia Beach over Cape Charles, but I kind of like the whole touristy beach scene. There are quiet areas, though, as Birdie mentioned. At the time of year you will be there, I think you will not find it to be crowded anyway. The crowds seem to vanish after Labor Day.
Mar 18th, 2009, 07:03 AM
#34
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I made my first reservations it's in Virginia Beach following your advise, we will be around 264 and 64 -central to the bridge, Va Beach, Norfolk and Portsmouth, we booked for 4 nite. I'm looking into 3 nites in a B & B in Williamsburg.
I have 2 questions if you have the time.
Leaving Richmond would you go North to Fredericksburg for the night then over to Luray , instead of East to Charlottesville and then North to Luray? I want to get to the northern part of the Skyline but Fredericksburg seems to have
so much history, maybe I shouldn't leave it out.
For my one night on Blue Ridge I could exit and spend the night in Charlottesville or near Montpelier. What would you do?
Second question, Will the trees have changed at all by the 10th-24th of September?
Thank you again SO much.
I have 2 questions if you have the time.
Leaving Richmond would you go North to Fredericksburg for the night then over to Luray , instead of East to Charlottesville and then North to Luray? I want to get to the northern part of the Skyline but Fredericksburg seems to have
so much history, maybe I shouldn't leave it out.
For my one night on Blue Ridge I could exit and spend the night in Charlottesville or near Montpelier. What would you do?
Second question, Will the trees have changed at all by the 10th-24th of September?
Thank you again SO much.
Mar 18th, 2009, 07:59 AM
#35
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>>Leaving Richmond would you go North to Fredericksburg for the night then over to Luray , instead of East to Charlottesville and then North to Luray?
I personally would drive 64 East to Charlottesville and then North to Luray, but I think either way would work. Charlottesville is a nice place - I haven't been to Fredericksburg much, so I can't vouch for it. I definitely wouldn't skip Charlottesville, if that's what you're asking - there's lots of history there as well (Monticello among other sites).
I don't think the trees will change until early/mid October, but am not 100% sure.
I personally would drive 64 East to Charlottesville and then North to Luray, but I think either way would work. Charlottesville is a nice place - I haven't been to Fredericksburg much, so I can't vouch for it. I definitely wouldn't skip Charlottesville, if that's what you're asking - there's lots of history there as well (Monticello among other sites).
I don't think the trees will change until early/mid October, but am not 100% sure.
Mar 18th, 2009, 08:01 AM
#36
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Here's a fall foliage map. You'll be a little too early for it.
http://www.dof.virginia.gov/fall/index.shtml
http://www.dof.virginia.gov/fall/index.shtml
Mar 18th, 2009, 08:33 AM
#37
For the overnight you've described, I'd pick C'ville over F'burg. The drive will be less congested (F'burg is becoming or already is an exurb of DC) and C'ville has better restaurants and, for lack of a better word, its own vibe. I'm not dissing F'burg. It's got great history and is worth seeing but VA is rich in history and you're seeing a lot of it on your visit.
Also, sorry to nitpick but I am curious about 4 nights at the 264/64 interchange. It seems you're looking for a location with central access to things you want to see? The area you've picked is generic interstate. As a gauge, I live in Wmbg and frequently do day trips for work and fun to Va Beach (1.5 hrs), Richmond (1 hr), Norfolk (1 hr), Newport News (40 min). Not suggesting that you stay in Wmbg your entire visit but am saying that travel times and distances aren't huge and that you might focus on finding a more pleasant place to stay. Rush hour traffic is an issue but it's mostly a timing one.
Also, sorry to nitpick but I am curious about 4 nights at the 264/64 interchange. It seems you're looking for a location with central access to things you want to see? The area you've picked is generic interstate. As a gauge, I live in Wmbg and frequently do day trips for work and fun to Va Beach (1.5 hrs), Richmond (1 hr), Norfolk (1 hr), Newport News (40 min). Not suggesting that you stay in Wmbg your entire visit but am saying that travel times and distances aren't huge and that you might focus on finding a more pleasant place to stay. Rush hour traffic is an issue but it's mostly a timing one.
Mar 18th, 2009, 04:52 PM
#38
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The 264/64 area is rather ... blah ... I assume you mean somewhere around the Newtown Road exits. If you stay a bit further east (Pembroke / Independence exits), then you would at least be close to an area that is trying to become Virginia Beach's downtown. There is a small mall and several chain restaurants; it's at least a bit more developed than the Newtown Road area - which is primarily gas stations and a Dennys!
Mar 18th, 2009, 05:56 PM
#39
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Why New Market? It is a charming town and it has the New Market Battlefied and museum to see, but not much more. If you decide on New Market and getting on Skyline Drive in Front Royal, take route 11 north to Strasburg and route 55 from there to Front Royal instead of I-81 and I-66. Route 11 is a VA scenic byway passing through New Market, Meem's Bottom covered bridge, Mt. Jackson, Edinburg, Woodstock, where I live and its 1795 still operating court house and Woodstock Tower, Tom's Brook and its winery, and Strasburg with the circa 1900 Strasburg Hotel.
The alternate chioce would be to go to Luray, west to New Market on route 211, then back track on rte 211 to Skyline Drive and head south from there. The first 30 miles on Skyline Drive from Front Royal to the rte 211 interchnge isn't that great due to the lower elevations.
The alternate chioce would be to go to Luray, west to New Market on route 211, then back track on rte 211 to Skyline Drive and head south from there. The first 30 miles on Skyline Drive from Front Royal to the rte 211 interchnge isn't that great due to the lower elevations.
Mar 18th, 2009, 07:02 PM
#40
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The 264/64 exit has a BRAND NEW Homewood Suites that is very
reasonable- 110 a nite and seemed so central to the area, and this is the only reason I picked it. I couldn't find a nice oceanfront hotel under 150 a night or I would have gone that route. Staying 4 nights at 200 a night was a little too pricey for us.
Thank you for the foliage info, that was very helpful.
Thank you Obxgirl, we will stick with Charlottesville,
and not Fredericksburg.
Thank you Ronkala I will take your advise and route your
suggestions out on our map!!
We are getting really excited about Virginia and feeling much
more confident that we are going to see the best of it.
We can't thank you enough.
reasonable- 110 a nite and seemed so central to the area, and this is the only reason I picked it. I couldn't find a nice oceanfront hotel under 150 a night or I would have gone that route. Staying 4 nights at 200 a night was a little too pricey for us.
Thank you for the foliage info, that was very helpful.
Thank you Obxgirl, we will stick with Charlottesville,
and not Fredericksburg.
Thank you Ronkala I will take your advise and route your
suggestions out on our map!!
We are getting really excited about Virginia and feeling much
more confident that we are going to see the best of it.
We can't thank you enough.
