Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buena Vista to Harrisonburg, Virginia

If you're ever in need of a scenic and refreshing driving route, Buena Vista to Harrisonburg should definitely be on your list of places to visit. Between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley lies a road with gorgeous views, tasty food, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. This 70-mile journey along Route 11 can be completed in just over 2 hours, but if you're up for it, it's best to take your time and make a few stops along the way.

Staunton, VA - The Halfway Point

At around the halfway point of the journey, you'll find Staunton, VA. This historic town is a great place to take a break, stretch your legs, and explore. Visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, the birthplace of the 28th President of the United States, or the American Shakespeare Center, where you can catch a live performance of one of the Bard's most popular works. If you're more interested in shopping, the historic downtown is home to many unique boutiques and antique shops, featuring local artisans and vintage finds.

Favorite food to eat in Staunton: If you're looking for a quick and tasty snack, try the fresh homemade BBQ pork rinds from the Wright's Dairy Rite stand, located at the Staunton Farmers Market (open Saturdays from 7am-noon).

Stop One: Natural Chimneys State Park

Named for its stunning rock formations, Natural Chimneys State Park is a must-see spot on this picturesque road trip. These massive limestone towers, some of which reach up to 120 feet tall, were formed millions of years ago by underground water draining out of fissures in the rocks. The park offers many fun activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and even mini-golf.

Favorite food to eat at Natural Chimneys: Grab a slice of pizza or a hot dog at the snack bar located near the entrance to the park.

Stop Two: CrossKeys Vineyards

A little further up Route 11, near the town of Mt. Crawford, is CrossKeys Vineyards. This breathtaking winery sits atop a hill with a panoramic view of the surrounding valley. Take a guided tour of the vineyard and learn about the process of winemaking, or simply enjoy a glass or two of their delicious wines at the tasting room.

Favorite food to eat at CrossKeys Vineyards: Pair your wine with their perfectly cooked flatbread pizza. The margherita is a favorite among visitors.

Stop Three: White Oak Lavender Farm

Located in the small town of Harrisonburg, White Oak Lavender Farm is a unique and fragrant stop on this road trip. The sprawling lavender fields are a sight to behold, and the scent is heavenly. The farm also has a quaint gift shop with items featuring their lavender products, from oils and soaps to culinary spices.

Favorite food to eat at White Oak Lavender Farm: Treat yourself to their lavender ice cream or freeze pops for a sweet and floral treat.

Stop Four: Shelby's Soda Shoppe

Shelby's Soda Shoppe is a funky and colorful diner-style restaurant located in downtown Harrisonburg. The retro decor and old-fashioned soda fountain make it a fun place to grab a bite to eat. They offer classic diner fare like burgers, fries and milkshakes, as well as inventive specials like the "Scotty Pup" - a hot dog topped with mac and cheese.

Favorite food to eat at Shelby's Soda Shoppe: Order a milkshake, of course. They have an extensive menu with unique flavor combinations like peanut butter and banana, and blackberry cheesecake.

Stop Five: Virginia Quilt Museum

If you're a lover of textiles and craftsmanship, the Virginia Quilt Museum is definitely worth a visit. Located in the heart of Harrisonburg, this museum is dedicated to the art and history of quilting. Their exhibits showcase stunning and intricate quilts from around the world, and the knowledgeable staff can answer any questions you might have about the craft.

Favorite food to eat at the Virginia Quilt Museum: No food is served on site, but the gift shop has a selection of homemade jams and jellies that would make a great souvenir or snack for the road.

Conclusion

While it's easy to take the highway from Buena Vista to Harrisonburg, taking the scenic route along Route 11 provides a wealth of opportunities to explore and discover unexpected wonders. Whether it's hiking up the limestone towers at Natural Chimneys, enjoying a glass of wine at CrossKeys Vineyards, or treating yourself to some lavender ice cream at White Oak Lavender Farm, there's something for everyone on this road trip. So pack a bag, fill up the gas tank, and hit the road - you won't regret it!