Things to do in Luray, Virginia (VA): The Best Nature & Parks

August 4, 2021 Dorsey Hagwood

The town of Luray, Virginia, sits in the Shenandoah Valley at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park, Luray is known for spectacular views and outdoor adventure. Grab a map and head for Skyline Drive, a gorgeous 105-mile road running along mountain ridges for the entire length of the park. Explore Luray Caverns, a network of caves offering daily subterranean tours, or head to Luray Zoo, a rescue center featuring a reptile jungle and petting zoo.
Restaurants in Luray

1. Stony Man Mountain Hike

At Mile Marker 41.7 Turn off Skyline Drive To Skyland Upper Loop Inside Shenandoah National Park Stony Man Parking, Shenandoah National Park, Luray, VA +1 877-313-2586 http://www.hikingupward.com/SNP/StonyMan/
Excellent
81%
Good
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Satisfactory
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5.0 based on 448 reviews

Stony Man Mountain Hike

Reviewed By MarkUSNA1998 - Odessa, United States

After a much longer hike the day before, we wanted a shorter, easier one for our last day. Since this one is right next to Skyland where we we're staying, it was perfect. In short, it is easy to find the trail head, there was ample parking (at 10am), and it was a pretty easy hike up to the best view I have seen yet in the park. All in all I think it took is about an hour round trip, with about 15 minutes standing at the top. Highly recommended!

2. Birdsong Pleasure Garden

Long Fort Road, Luray, VA 22835 +1 540-743-9389 [email protected] http://www.birdsongpleasuregarden.info/
Excellent
82%
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5.0 based on 11 reviews

Birdsong Pleasure Garden

Birdsong Pleasure Garden allows visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of life while offering them a variety of picturesque gardens, mountain vistas, strolling paths, water features, and al fresco dining. It is a garden of pleasure and learning, relaxing yet filled with ideas to take home. PLEASE call ahead to schedule a time, as we are a Private Garden, 540-743-9389, thank-you.

3. Luray Caverns

970 US Highway 211 W, Luray, VA 22835-5260 +1 888-443-6551 [email protected] http://www.LurayCaverns.com
Excellent
63%
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4.5 based on 4,625 reviews

Luray Caverns

Discover Eastern America’s largest and most popular caverns. 4,000,000 centuries in the making, this “must see” U.S. Natural Landmark is noted for the profuse variety of formations and unsurpassed natural color. One hour tours from well-lighted, paved walkways lead visitors through cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10 stories high. Enormous chambers are filled with towering stone columns, shimmering draperies and crystal-clear pools. Also in this subterranean wonderland, “hear rocks sing” as you experience the haunting sounds of the world’s largest musical instrument, The Great Stalacpipe Organ. Completely unique are the beautiful tones created by this one-of-a-kind instrument, which makes music of concert quality from the surrounding stalactite formations covering more than three acres.

Reviewed By drcrawford240 - Tuckerton, United States

My best friend was there 30 years ago with her parents and couldn't wait to bring her son and me and my daughter there to see it and as soon as we went down the steps into the cavern, I was in awe of the beauty that this natural wonder is. Our tour guide, Phillip, was a very knowledgeable and friendly young man that answered every question we asked and even have us some great ideas for where to hike in Shenandoah Valley when we asked him. The food concessions were very reasonably priced and tasty and the prices in the gift shop were surprisingly reasonable as well. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone.

4. Massanutten Storybook Trail

Crisman Hollow Road off of 211, Luray, VA http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gwj/recreation/otheractivities/recarea?recid=79259&actid=50
Excellent
73%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
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4.5 based on 81 reviews

Massanutten Storybook Trail

Reviewed By H7436BSdianes

A quick & easy walk through a 3 ft wide path that is handicap accessible. No steep grade very level walk way. A beautiful view at the end. Easy to find off 211, drive carefully & slowly on Crisman Hollow a sharp back switch and only a lane 1/2 road. Enjoy this easy walk to a beautiful view.

5. Hawksbill Greenway

US Route 340 Runs along the Hawksbill Creek, parallel to US 340 and/or South Hawksbill Street., Luray, VA http://hawksbillgreenway.org
Excellent
75%
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4.5 based on 152 reviews

Hawksbill Greenway

Reviewed By 2012retired

This paved path is a great way to enjoy the wildlife that likes to live along water and is the perfect 5K. I walk/jog it often and the Town of Luray staff keep it looking great and there are 2 nice bathroom facilities along the route. They have doggie bags available to pick up after your pets should you want to exercise with your 4 legged friend.

6. Kennedy Peak Hike

Fort Valley Rd, Luray, VA
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4.5 based on 17 reviews

Kennedy Peak Hike

Reviewed By MandyBaskin

This is the second time I have done Kennedy Peak. One in the fog and snow which was SO mystical and peaceful, and again this October with my daughter during the fall foliage. Absolutely spectacular, both times, for different reasons. This a great mid-distance hike (we just did the out and back) with several scenic overlooks, and 360 views at the top. The observation deck is a great place for rest and a snack. We love this hike, can't wait to go back!

7. Luray Zoo - A Rescue Zoo

1087 US Highway 211 W, Luray, VA 22835-5245 +1 540-743-4113 http://Lurayzoo.com
Excellent
53%
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Satisfactory
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4.0 based on 283 reviews

Luray Zoo - A Rescue Zoo

Luray zoo does not maintain this sight this is a third party sight for accurate information on hours etc see website

Reviewed By Sev1579 - Stanardsville, United States

For the area, this is a great place to visit. If you go in expecting the DC Zoo or even Richmond, you will be let down, however, for a small town this is great. I thought the reptile section was as good as any zoo, it was really good. The monkeys were also fun to watch. It has a pretty large feeding area with some goats and sheep. We spent about 30 minutes there. Price was 10 dollars and I thought it was pretty much on point with what we got. The parking lot was a touch of a pain, its pretty small.

8. Lewis Spring Falls

Shenandoah National Park, Luray, VA
Excellent
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4.0 based on 17 reviews

Lewis Spring Falls

9. Lake Arrowhead Recreation Park

725 Lake Arrowhead Rd, Luray, VA 22835-7506 +1 540-743-5511 http://www.townofluray.com/parks---recreation.html
Excellent
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4.5 based on 6 reviews

Reviewed By Grami-TT - Luray, United States

We enjoy family gatherings at the shelters. The view of the lake is so nice! You can fish, hike, relax, play games, or swim and there is also a little play area for the kiddos!

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