Luray is an excellent and beautiful example of a town in Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. Luray Cavern is one of the major attractions with fantastic carving formations and an underground lake.
It is perfect during summer to perhaps take a break and just relax. Beside it, Skyline Drive hiking trails with breathtaking sceneries are within Shenandoah National Park. The town also has some good stores and genuine Southern food, offering a hospitable vibe to its visitors.
This list explains 20 amazing things to do in Luray:
1. Unforgettable Experience At Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns are immense and vast and it feels like you are in a strange new world. The scene is one of the wonders of the world which took millenniums to shape up by natural means.
Upon entering you will be amazed by the phenomenal colors and shapes and underground lake. The Luray Caverns VA has a nice setup with a path along the caves that makes it easy to navigate.
Some parts are very narrow while others have a whole lot of room above your head. But plenty of light illumination makes it easy to tell yourself to be careful. Get your tickets from the Lurey Caverns website.
Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd
2. Take A Scenic Drive or Hike The Shenandoah National Park
This national park is a beautiful drive with scenic overlooks around every turn. The road is twisting and turning so you have to be alert and careful, but it is safe.
You will find many lookout points to get out of the car and take pictures or simply fake in the beautiful scenery. There are hiking trails throughout for all levels of hikers. Several resting points and lodges offer a place to sit and relax.
The visitors center has a nice display and a walk-through information tunnel. The cancellation stamp is easy to find, and there is a store next door for any forgotten supplies.
Address: 3655 US Highway 211 E
3. Explore The Luray Valley Museum & Shenandoah Heritage Village
These attractions located in the same premises are also included in the price of Luray Caverns' visit. A historic outdoor village and a nice museum focusing on the history of the Shenandoah Valley and restored 19th-century buildings.
Outside are six or so historic buildings that have been moved to the site, preserving them for future generations to see. The ground is laid out for displaying the buildings. The barn is huge but only a small portion of it is used for display.
The museum is fantastic. The exhibits enlighten you about Virginia's history and culture, including Native Americans who first lived in the area and their contributions to the growth and development of the area.
Address: 100 Cave Hill Rd
4. Have Breakfast At Gathering Grounds Patisserie & Cafe
It is a nice inexpensive place to grab a good coffee and bite to eat. This place focusing on breakfast has amazing food, a sweet server, and the wait time is reasonable.
They have a pretty large variety of options considering the size of the restaurant which is a plus. Moreover, the atmosphere is lovely with warm and tasteful decor.
The idea of " latte flights," is one of their novelty and loved by many. Their croissants are buttery and crispy at the same time. The onion rings, turkey Cobb, and pasta salad are all amazing and highly recommended.
Address: 24 E Main St
5. Interact With Animals At Luray Zoo - A Rescue Zoo
This rescue zoo is one of the cutest little attractions in Luray Virginia. They have the absolute best reptile collections and it is nice to see them up close.
The zoo has a little store as you walk in. You then walk through the snake area that leads you to the outside to the other animals. One of the favorite activities one can do is to interact with and feed the animals.
Some of the animals found here are golden eagles, a few monkeys, goats, alpacas, birds, alligators, porcupines, and more. They also have a nice gift shop with an amazing selection.
Address: 1087 US Highway 211 West
6. Buy Local Art From The Art Space on 211
If you have even the slightest interest in any of these arts, then pay a visit here. It is free to wander around, however there is a jar for donations at the entrance.
Throw some money in when you exit so this gallery can keep going. It is located in downtown Luray, and the warehouse showcases a good collection of local art. Some art on display include ceramics, jewelry, iron, painting, photos, etc.
They do have small trinkets you could buy with a reasonable amount of money since they are all handcrafted.
Address: 3054 US Hwy 211 West
7. Enjoy Tasty Beer At Hawksbill Brewing Co
A nice brewery right down the road from the Luray Caverns. They have both indoor and outdoor seating with a little rustic look.
Hawksbill serves about 8-9 beers that are made on-premise along with nonalcoholic root beer called Boo Beer. The venue does not serve food but there is a food truck on site on weekends or you can carry your food.
Some of their best-selling items are the Kolsch-like cream ale, the red ale, Bootstrappin' Black Lager, and the Working Class Happy Pale ale "POG." The barkeeps and staff are friendly and happy to help.
Address: 22 Zerkel St
8. Attend Movies On Main At Page Theater
The Movies on Main is a fun and family-oriented initiative of the Town of Luray and some local sponsors. It happens every month at the classic Page Theater in Downtown Luray.
A huge mass of people especially in the evening after 6 participate in this fun-filled event and have the best time. It is free for everyone but the popcorn is free only for the first 100 patrons.
This event for this year is due on November 12. Explore some other events organized by the town on the Town of Luray website. The theater is well preserved with clean and comfortable settings.
Address: 33 E. Main St.
9. Horseback Riding At Skyland Stables
Horseback riding at the Shenandoah mountains at Highland Stables is truly amazing. It is a nice short trail ride which is perfect for beginners.
Before you go on the ride, the guide takes time to provide instructions about the horse and what to do before the ride. You will then be led to some beautiful landscapes and sceneries. This is a friendly, easy, professional, clean property and just a great atmosphere.
The stable is neat and the horses are well-maintained. The horses respond to the lead nicely, which shows that they are so well loved and cared for. These activities in Luray VA offer a great experience.
Address: Skyland Upper Loop
10. Discover Cooter's Place - Luray
If you liked watching Dukes of Hazard then it's worth the trip. They have a lot of vehicles to look at as well as a small gift shop and diners.
Your childhood happy memories may be brought to life with interesting behind-the-scenes insights and all manner of cool items to see. Taking videos and pictures is allowed and encouraged.
If you're in the area on a Saturday be sure to check out Cooter's Garage Band featuring Ben Jones himself. You can also check the Cooter's Place available in Nashville as well. Here are some things to do in Nashville, if you plan a visit.
Address: 4768 US Highway 211 W
11. Take A Walk or Bike on The Luray Hawksbill Greenway
This is a paved walking or biking trail through the town of Luray along the river. An excellent way to spend an hour in the morning or evening.
You will see a Hawksbill Greenway welcome sign and also a large color-coded map. You can immediately start walking right after you park. The entire loop is over three miles.
After reaching a point, you cross a street to continue on the loop. It is marked with colors on the pavement that match the map. There are plenty of memorial benches, flowers, wildlife, porta-potties, and murals along the way. You might also see fishermen, families wading in the water, and several cows.
Address: Virginia 22835
12. Join The Stony Man Mountain Hike
This is an easy-to-moderate 4-mile loop hike and can be done by almost everyone including kids. Wear hiking boots as part of the track is quite stony.
There are two overlooks near each other. One is just a bit higher up than the other. The weather here is windy and chilly, so it is best to dress warm or carry some extras.
Bring or download a map as trails aren't super clearly marked. It is not too crowded but is a popular trail with beautiful views at the end of the trail.
Address: Skyline Drive MP 41.7
13. Savor Fine Drinks At River Hill Wine & Spirits
The distillery has a homely vibe. You have to drive through a neighborhood that turns into a farm to get to this place, but it is well worth tracking down.
It is a pretty small operation that makes their own wines and whiskey. The owner is extremely friendly and will talk you through a flight of samples including corn whiskey and moonshine among others.
River Hill Wine and Spirits provides a unique opportunity to experience and learn about their distillery and products. They also grow almost everything on the farm and sell beef as well.
Address: 356 Ruffners Ferry Rd
14. Stop By The Car and Carriage Caravan Museum
The Luray Caverns and Caravan Museum has a very impressive private collection of classic cars and wagons. It is one of the best car museums which showcases the passion and dedication of the people working here to create these wholesome collections.
Devote at least an hour to explore the vast display of vintage vehicles, from sleek sports cars to sturdy American classics. Each car tells a story, and the detailed descriptions and historical context add depth to the experience.
As a result, this is among the best things to do in Luray VA either for a seasoned collector or a casual admirer. This place can be visited with a ticket to Luray Caverns.
Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd
15. Shop Local Made Goods At Hawksbill Trading Company
The store is a collection of things from different vendors, so there is a variety. All the little shops here are combined into one.
There are crafts, flea market finds, baked goods, flowers, produce, jewelry, and all sorts of things. A good place to find locally-made products and gifts. Here you can shop for a lot of things you don't always see in many other stores.
One most-liked sections is the "Olde Crow n Co." It has homemade soaps, wax melts, lotions, and delicious-smelling products. The prices are reasonable and it is a nice visit on a rainy afternoon.
Address: 139 Virginia Ave
16. Go To DarkWood Manor
The Manor is a haunted house-themed Luray VA attractions in the downtown area. It has been haunting and entertaining visitors for 17 years.
The experience combines skilled performers, detailed sets, and make-up up to the mark. With these factors, each year they depict a story surrounding the legends of the DarkWood Manor.
The act is based on original stories. It is a fun and at the same time thrilling Halloween season attraction. Check out their upcoming events and book a ticket from the DarkWood Manor website.
Address: 104 N. Hawksbill St.
17. Try Bear Mountain Ziplines
If you have a small group or are looking for something fun to do, just book it. There are 7 varying lengths of zip lines and the last one is a long stretch with speeds up to 30.
You have to make a reservation for the longer courses. They charge $45 for adults per person and $20 for kid courses.
The guides are so amusing and they try to ensure you are safe and you enjoy yourselves. They also make sure to create opportunities for photos, since your own hands are busy when on the line.
Address: 2354 US Highway 211 East
18. Make Your Stay At Mimslyn Inn
This historic hotel is located just three minutes from the Luray Caverns. It is also in proximity to various local shops, distilleries, and breweries.
By staying here you won't lack for things to do Luray VA. The rooms are spacious and you get to enjoy various of their amenities. The food is good, the settings are lovely and the ambiance is outstanding.
One of the main attractions of this place is the murder mystery weekends. It is a fun activity with an engaging storyline and excellent actors delivering actions to the point. This event is one of the reasons people often visit this inn often.
Address: 401 W Main St
19. Relax At The Luray Singing Tower
It is a beautiful setting with a stone tower against the mountains. More than likely, if you are in Luray, you will see it as it is the tallest structure in the town.
It is directly across the street from the caverns. The tower is home to more than 45 bell Taylor Carillon that releases nice music throughout. The Carillonneur might take you up the tower to where he plays several pieces for all.
Sit and listen to the music outside on a scheduled basis. There is a one-hour concert on weekends. Be sure to go to the south side of the tower where you can see a livestream of the recitalist.
Address: Northcott dr,
20. Challenge Yourself To The Garden Maze At Luray Caverns
After exploring the Luray Cavern, try to navigate a maze in the middle of hedges. It is a fun and at the same time challenging experience.
The garden maze is carefully designed, and it's easy to get confused while navigating it. There are plenty of helpful guides, and the decorations and flowers are impressive and beautiful.
Be mindful of how long it takes to complete the maze, especially with young children. During hot days the water mist stations throughout the maze provide great relief from the heat. This is among the Luray Virginia attractions ideal for a fun day trip for a family. Also, look for things to do in Virginia.
Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd
