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Top Things To Do In Natural Bridge, VA

by Pankaj Upreti
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Things To Do In Natural Bridge

The town of Natural Bridge owes its name to the natural arch which serves as the landmark of this small town. Located in Virginia, Natural Bridge has a lot to offer to the travelers.

If you are looking to visit some places that are not the usual tourist sites then this place is for you. Natural Bridge is abound with a number of natural scenic places that will blow your mind.

Confused about the best places to visit in Natural Bridge, VA? Simply follow this list to have a good time. 

1. Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge State Park is one of the most exciting places to visit in Natural Bridge, VA for a number of reasons.
Natural Bridge State Park | Photo Credit – Todd Van Hoosear

State Park is one of the most exciting places to visit in Natural Bridge, Virginia for a number of reasons. The State Park stands at a height of 215 feet above the surrounding gorge and makes for a very scenic place to visit.

Owing to its significance, it has also been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In order to reach the Natural Bridge State Pak, you will either have to climb some stairs or take a shuttle bus. The place is open from 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening, so make sure that you visit within this time slot.

2. Caverns At Natural Bridge

Caverns at Natural Bridge, VA is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Natural Bridge Virginia and we highly recommend it.
Natural Bridge Caverns | Photo Credit – PatrickRohe

One of the most popular tourist attractions of Virginia is Caverns at Natural Bridge and we highly recommend it. These caverns have been open to the public since 1977 and have attracted many tourists over the years.

Here you will be able to experience what it feels like to be 34 stories deep within the surface of the earth.One of the major attractions of the place is the Colossal Dome room which features a huge dome-shaped natural structure.

The entire tour of the Cavers would last about forty-five minutes. Within this time frame, you’d be able to enjoy structures like the Mirror Lake, and the Well Room. If you are interested in cavers, this place will certainly make for a delightful visit.

3. Dinosaur Kingdom II

Dinosaur Kingdom II is also known as Escape From Dinosaur Kingdom and is one of the most interesting places to visit in Natural Bridge,VA.
Escape from Dinosaur Kingdom | Photo Credit – Katherine Bowman

Dinosaur Kingdom II is also known as Escape From Dinosaur Kingdom and is one of the most interesting places to visit in Natural Bridge. Here you will find many statues that depict a dinosaur attack on the Union Army.

The place has been in operation since 2005 and was built by local artist, Mark Cline. The story behind the park is the discovery of dinosaurs in Virginia by paleontologists in the year 1863 and when the Union Army tried to use dinosaurs as weapons, instead, the animals turned against them.

This is an interesting place to visit with children as it will appeal to their sense of fantasy and imagination.

4. Natural Bridge Zoo

The Natural Bridge Zoo has been in operation since the year 1972 and is one of the most famous places to visit in Virginia. The zoo has been built with the aim of rearing threatened or endangered species in a safe environment.

Here you will have the chance to see and learn about a number of animals, birds, and reptiles. Here you will see, everything from a giraffe to a llama. This is an ideal place to visit with children as it will help them establish a relationship with animals from a young age.

5. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Parkway which is known for its beauty. It runs for 469 miles, which makes it the longest parkway of the United States of America.

It is an important parkway as it links Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is the perfect place to engage in a romantic long-drive with your partner. The place has a number of viewpoints which make it an alluring destination.

One viewpoint which you should keep an eye out for is the Thunder Ridge Overlook. So if you are planning on a long road trip, just pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of Blue Ridge Parkway.

6. Peaks Of Otter

The Peaks of Otter is one of the most famous spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway. In the year 1834, an inn was constructed here and ever since this place has become a famous tourist spot.

If you are taking a trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this could make for a nice spot to get off and get some rest. The visitors center of the Peaks of Otter comes with facilities like restrooms and amphitheatre. It remains open from May till October.

Peaks of Otter also makes for a nice place because it is inhabited by birds and animals which make it one of the most beautiful places that you will visit in Natural Bridge VA.

7. Devil’s Marbleyard Hike

Blue Ridge Mountain | Photo Credit – John Mueller

If you are looking to engage in some thrilling activities at the Natural Bridge, this hike is just the right thing for you.

This hike is located on the slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountain and makes for an amazing view. The hike is not difficult and you wouldn’t find it difficult to reach the Devil’s Marbleyard.

The view from top of the hike is gorgeous and will be worth the effort that you will put in. The hike is 3 miles long and is characterised by huge rock field boulders, something which gives it its name.

8. Great Valley Farm Brewery And Winery

If you are in the mood to get some drinks, head straight to the Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery. The place has an amazing ambience where you can simply relax and enjoy your drink.

You can also choose to drink outdoors against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The place is famous for its Belgian style ales so make sure that you taste those.

Here you will also have the chance to sample a number of wines that have been produced by grapes grown in their own farms. If you are lucky, you will also get to witness a music event or find a food truck parked in the space.

Over the years, this place has earned the reputation of being a favorite hang out spot among the tourists and localities, so will have the chance of interacting with others.

The Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery remains closed on Monday and Tuesday so make sure that you check their visiting schedule before you go down to visit them.

9. Halycon Days Cider

Halcyon Days Cider is a family-owned cidery at Natural Bridge which you must visit. They are known for their cider production which they create by blending both traditional and modern methods of cider productions.

A visit to this place will give you the chance some of the tastiest apple cider y0u will taste in a while. You can be assured of its quality and we can bet that you will certainly love it.

Apart from the cider that you will taste during the tour, you can also buy some cider to treat yourself after you are done visiting the place.

10. Virginia Safari Park

Virginia Safari Park | Photo Credit – Todd Wickersty

The Virginia Safari Park is the only drive-through Safari park in Virginia and is a famous tourist spot. The Safari Park is located in the Natural Bridge and is spread over an area of 10 acres. Here you will find over 1,000 exotic animals that belong to 6 different continents.

You simply need to drive through the park and animals will approach your vehicle for you to feed them. This is an ideal place to visit with children as they are bound to love it.

Safari Park will enable you to interact with animals in a much more intimate manner as opposed to a zoo and we highly recommend it.

11. Abbott Lake

Spread over an area of 24 acres, the Abbott Lake is one of the most picturesque spots in Natural Bridge, VA.

It is located along the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway and makes for a perfect place to visit with your loved ones.

Here you can simply lay back and enjoy the incredible view or indulge in some outdoor recreational activities.

One of the things that you can do at the lake is to catch some fishes. If you are into hiking, this is a great place for you because this place has a number of hiking routes.

If you are visiting Abbott Lake with your family, you can plan a little picnic to spend some quality time with them. This is an ideal location to visit because here you will find a number of facilities.

From restaurants to restrooms, this place makes for a most comfortable setting. Not just this, you could also opt to stay at the Peaks of Otter Lodge in case you feel like spending some more time at the Abbott Lake.

A visit to Abbott Lake will thrill you to the core and will be one of the best things that you will do in Natural Bridge.

12. Natural Bridge

A visit to this place, Virginia would be incomplete without visiting the landmark which gave it its name- the geological formation, Natural Bridge.

About 215 foot high and with a span of 90 feet, this bridge is a marvel of nature and will please you to the core.

It is located within the gorge carved within surrounding mountains. Owing to its significance it has been listed in the Virginia Historic Landmark. It is also part of the National Historical Landmark. There is not much to do at the Natural Bridge except for appreciating nature’s magic.

Places To Eat At In Natural Bridge VA

A visit to Natural Bridge, VA would be incomplete without tasting its food. Here is a list of places that you must stop by to treat yourself.

1. Natural Bridge General Store And Natty B Cafe

A visit to this place would be incomplete without making a stop at Natural Bridge General Store and Natty B Cafe.

This is a vegetarian friendly place and this is a perfect place to have breakfast or lunch.

Here you can try a number of home-made snacks that will simply touch your heart.

Not just this, you can also shop for some items from their general store to consume on the rest of your trip.

2. Pink Cadillac Diner

If you are looking for a place to eat some burgers and fries, this is just for you in Natural Bridge, VA.
Pink Cadillac Diner | Photo Credit – Taber Andrew Bain

In the mood for an American dining experience? There is no place better than the Pink Cadillac Diner. The ambience of this place is all about building and American dining experience and you will instantly feel at home.

This place is pretty basic but you will definitely have your money’s worth as it will be delicious. So if you are looking for a place to eat some burgers and fries, this is just for you.

Please also read about things to do in Downtown Jacksonville.

Things To Do In Natural Bridge, VA: FAQs

What is the best time to visit Natural Bridge, Virginia?

Visit Natural Bridge, Virginia between March and May or September and November for the finest weather. Furthermore, there are less visitors in the spring and autumn, allowing you to take in the area’s natural beauty without the summertime congestion.

Are the Natural Bridge Caverns accessible to all visitors?

Yes, the Natural Bridge Caverns are accessible to most visitors. However, some areas may require physical exertion, so it’s advisable to check with the guides before embarking on a tour.

Can I bring my own food to Natural Bridge State Park?

Absolutely! Natural Bridge State Park welcomes picnickers. There are designated picnic areas where you can enjoy your meals amidst the beauty of nature.

Is rock climbing allowed at Natural Bridge?

Yes, rock climbing is allowed in certain areas of Natural Bridge. It’s recommended for experienced climbers, and safety precautions should always be taken.

When is the best time to see fall foliage at Natural Bridge?

The peak time to witness the stunning fall foliage at Natural Bridge is typically during October, when the leaves display a breathtaking array of colors.


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