The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Luray, Virginia

Welcome to Luray RV Resort & Campground, your ultimate base camp for adventures in the heart of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley!

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing retreat surrounded by natural beauty, Luray has something for everyone. From breathtaking caverns to scenic hiking trails and charming downtown attractions, here's your ultimate guide to experiencing the best of Luray, Virginia. 

Endless Caverns: A Hidden Gem of Subterranean Beauty 

Endless Caverns offers a more intimate and less crowded caving experience for those looking to venture off the beaten path. True to its name, this vast cave system features intricate passageways, breathtaking rock formations, and fascinating geological wonders. The guided tours take you deep into the caverns, where you can marvel at underground beauty while learning about the cave's rich history. 

The Endless Caverns also offers wildlife spotting on the cave's surface, so watch for various species of birds and bats as you exit. Endless Caverns is the perfect choice if you're looking for a quieter but equally mesmerizing cavern experience. The tour guides are knowledgeable and enlightening, with guides sharing fascinating facts about the history and formation of these spectacular natural wonders. Be sure to check their schedule, as some tours are seasonal. 

Visit Endless Caverns 

2. Hike the Stony Man Mountain Trail 

Check out the Stony Man Mountain hike for panoramic views that will take your breath away. This moderate trail offers a rewarding summit view stretching across the Shenandoah Valley, offering lush forests, rolling hills, and distant mountain peaks. 

The trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip, making it an ideal option for those looking for a relatively short but satisfying hike. The first section of the trail leads through a beautiful forest, and as you approach the summit, the trees begin to thin, offering stunning open views. The view from the top of Stony Man Mountain is one of the best in the region and is incredibly stunning during sunrise or sunset. 

Hiking Tip: Bring your camera and a pair of binoculars. The trail offers a chance to spot wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, and an array of bird species, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon hours. 

Find More Hiking Trails 

The Shenandoah Valley is a hiker's paradise, offering a range of trails from easy walks to challenging mountain hikes. If you have time, consider exploring other nearby trails such as Dark Hollow Falls, which features a beautiful waterfall, or the Whiteoak Canyon trail, which boasts scenic pools and waterfalls. 

3. Discover the Charm of Downtown Luray 

Stroll through historic Downtown Luray, where you'll find quaint shops, cozy cafés, and a vibrant arts scene. Take a walk along the award-winning Luray-Hawksbill Greenway, a picturesque trail that follows the Shenandoah River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. The Greenway is perfect for a peaceful walk or bike ride, with scenic overlooks making it an ideal picnic spot. 

Luray's downtown is known for its charm, and local boutiques showcase everything from handmade crafts to local honey. Don't forget to stop by the Luray Diner, a vintage eatery serving classic American comfort food, or enjoy a gourmet coffee at a local café. Be sure to visit the Luray Art Gallery and browse stunning local artwork before finishing your day with a delicious meal at one of Luray's fine restaurants, such as The Mimslyn Inn or The Speakeasy. 

Local Tip: Visit during the weekend for the Luray Farmers Market (seasonal), where you can enjoy fresh produce, local products, and homemade goods. 

Explore Downtown Luray 

4. Paddle the Scenic Shenandoah River 

For a peaceful outdoor adventure, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the Shenandoah River. The river winds through the valley and offers serene waters that are perfect for leisurely paddling. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, the gentle current makes it an ideal river for all skill levels. 

Along the way, you'll pass lush forested areas and open fields and perhaps even spot some wildlife, including deer, birds, and turtles. It's filled with the valley's natural beauty, where you can enjoy a quiet day on the water. 

Tip: Bring your camera! The Shenandoah River offers some of the most scenic views in Virginia, with opportunities to snap photos of the surrounding mountains and wildlife. 

5. Sip and Savor at Wisteria Farm and Vineyard 

Unwind at Wisteria Farm and Vineyard, where you can sample various locally made wines in a picturesque farm setting. Whether you prefer a crisp white or a bold red, this charming vineyard offers a relaxing atmosphere perfect for wine lovers. Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the vineyard's scenic views complement the quality of the wine, making it an unforgettable visit. 

The vineyard also offers wine tastings, where you can sample a selection of wines and learn about the local winemaking process. Pair your wine with a cheese board or gourmet snack for a truly relaxing experience. 

Tip: Tour the vineyard's grounds to learn more about the winemaking process. Wisteria Farm and Vineyard also hosts live music events during the summer months, adding an extra element of enjoyment to your visit. 

Visit Wisteria Farm and Vineyard

6. Step Back in Time at the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum 

Located at Luray Caverns, this unique museum features an impressive collection of antique automobiles and carriages. Car enthusiasts and history lovers alike will enjoy browsing vintage vehicles and learning about the evolution of transportation. This museum showcases the history of automotive innovation, from early horseless carriages to beautifully restored classic cars. 

The museum is open year-round and included with your Luray Caverns ticket. The wide array of vehicles and well-maintained exhibits offer the entire family a fun and educational experience. 

Tip: Plan to spend extra time at the museum to explore its diverse collection of vehicles, each with its own story to tell. It's a fascinating stop for anyone interested in the history of transportation. 

Plan Your Visit Here

7. Experience Wildlife at Luray Zoo 

The Luray Zoo is a sanctuary for rescued animals, offering a close-up experience with various fascinating creatures. Perfect for families and animal lovers, this small but well-loved zoo provides an educational and entertaining visit. Visitors can see animals like tigers, bears, monkeys, and various species of birds. 

Many animals have been rescued and rehabilitated, making the zoo an important institution dedicated to animal welfare. It's a great stop for those traveling with kids or anyone who loves learning about wildlife conservation. The Luray Zoo is a smaller, more intimate zoo than some of Virginia's larger ones. Its hands-on exhibits and friendly staff make it a greatplace for animal lovers to interact with fascinating wildlife up close. 

Visit Luray Zoo 

8. Enjoy Live Music and Performances 

Luray's arts and music scene is thriving! Check out local venues and event listings to catch live performances, from acoustic sets in cozy cafés to community concerts. Luray offers a variety of musical events, from folk and bluegrass to rock and jazz. Keep an eye on local event calendars for special performances and festivals. 

Tip: If you're in Luray during the summer or fall, be sure to attend one of the Luray Summer Concert Series performances. These free events are hosted outdoors and provide a relaxing atmosphere with live music and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 



9. Visit the Luray Valley Museum 

Step into the past at the Luray Valley Museum, where exhibits and artifacts tell the story of Shenandoah Valley's rich history. Learn about the people, culture, and traditions that have shaped the region over the centuries. From Native American artifacts to exhibits on the Civil War and the valley's agricultural heritage, this museum offers a fascinating look at the area's past. 

The museum is located on the grounds of Luray Caverns, making it an easy addition to your day's itinerary. 

10. Take in the Views on Skyline Drive 

Take a trip along Skyline Drive, one of the most scenic drives in America. This stunning route through Shenandoah National Park offers countless overlooks where you can pull over and take in breathtaking views of the valley, especially during peak fall foliage season. Skyline Drive is a 105-mile route that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Virginia, with sweeping vistas, dense forests, and opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and black bears. 

Tip: If you're visiting during the fall, be sure to time your trip for peak foliage season. The colors of the leaves transform the valley into a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. 

Plan Your Stay at Luray RV Resort & Campground 

Luray RV Resort & Campground is the perfect home base for your Shenandoah Valley adventure. After a day of exploring, return to the comfort of our well-appointed RV sites, cozy cabins, and peaceful camping spots. Whether you're here for outdoor thrills or a relaxing getaway, we have everything you need for a memorable stay. 

What are you waiting for?! Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the best of Luray. We can't wait to welcome you!