If you’re planning a visit to Luray Caverns, you’re in for much more than an unforgettable underground adventure. Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley, Luray is filled with scenic overlooks, charming small-town experiences, outdoor recreation, family attractions, and local dining that make it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a long weekend, here’s your guide to the best things to do near Luray Caverns.
Explore the Largest Caverns in the Eastern United States
No visit to Luray is complete without experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Luray Caverns.
Walk along paved pathways through towering cathedral-sized chambers filled with massive stalactites, stalagmites, mirrored pools, and stunning limestone formations that have taken millions of years to create.
One of the highlights is the world-famous Great Stalacpipe Organ, the largest musical instrument of its kind, producing music by striking the cavern’s natural stalactites.
Your admission also includes several family-friendly attractions:
- Car & Carriage Caravan Museum
- Shenandoah Heritage Village
- Toy Town Junction
- Beautiful walking grounds and gardens
It’s easy to spend several hours exploring everything the property has to offer.
Drive Skyline Drive Through Shenandoah National Park
Just minutes from Luray Caverns is one of America’s most scenic roads.
Skyline Drive stretches 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park, offering breathtaking mountain vistas, wildlife viewing, picnic areas, and dozens of hiking trails.
Popular stops include:
- Stony Man Trail
- Hawksbill Summit
- Dark Hollow Falls
- Numerous overlooks perfect for sunrise and sunset photography
- Every season offers something different—from colorful spring wildflowers to brilliant fall foliage that attracts visitors from around the country.
Hike Shenandoah National Park
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities nearby.
Whether you’re looking for an easy nature walk or a challenging mountain hike, Shenandoah National Park has trails for every skill level.
Popular hikes include:
- Hawksbill Summit
- Stony Man
- Bearfence Mountain
- Dark Hollow Falls
- Rose River Loop
Many trails reward hikers with panoramic mountain views, waterfalls, wildlife sightings, and peaceful forests.
Walk or Bike the Hawksbill Greenway
Looking for a relaxing outdoor activity?
The Hawksbill Greenway is a beautiful paved trail following Hawksbill Creek through downtown Luray and is perfect for walking, biking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Explore Historic Downtown Luray
After your outdoor adventures, spend time exploring Historic Downtown Luray, where locally owned boutiques, galleries, coffee shops, breweries, restaurants, and seasonal events showcase the charm of the Shenandoah Valley.
The relaxed atmosphere makes downtown perfect for an afternoon of shopping, dining, and discovering local favorites.
Spend the Afternoon at Lake Arrowhead
Just a short drive away, Lake Arrowhead is one of Luray’s favorite recreation spots.
Visitors enjoy:
- Paddle boating
- Fishing
- Picnic areas
- Walking trails
- Mountain views
It’s an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a slower pace after exploring the caverns.
Visit Luray Zoo & Petting Center
Traveling with children?
The Luray Zoo & Petting Center offers close encounters with exotic animals and educational exhibits that make it a fun stop for families.
Kids especially enjoy feeding animals and learning about wildlife conservation.
Float the Shenandoah River
Warm-weather visitors shouldn’t miss the opportunity to experience the Shenandoah River.
Several local outfitters provide canoe, kayak, tube, and raft rentals.
Recommended outfitters:
There’s no better way to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Shenandoah Valley than from the water.
Horseback Riding Through the Valley
Experience the Shenandoah Valley from a different perspective with a guided horseback trail ride.
Jordan Hollow Stables offers scenic rides through forests, rolling farmland, and mountain landscapes suitable for riders of nearly every experience level.
It’s a memorable activity for couples, families, and first-time riders.
Discover More Local Attractions
If you have extra time, consider adding these attractions to your itinerary:
Luray Singing Tower (Carillon Park)
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Luray
Darkwood Manor (Seasonal around Halloween)
Each offers another reason to extend your stay and discover more of what makes Page County such a memorable destination.
Where to Stay Near Luray Caverns
After a day of exploring the Shenandoah Valley, you’ll appreciate returning to a comfortable place to relax.
Located just minutes from Luray Caverns, Hillside Hotel has been thoughtfully reimagined to combine modern comfort with small-town hospitality.
Every pet-friendly room includes:
- Plush bedding
- 55-inch Smart TV with streaming services
- Bluetooth speaker and alarm clock
- Mini refrigerator
- Microwave
- Coffee machine
- High-speed WiFi
- Contactless entry
After your adventures, unwind by the seasonal outdoor pool, gather around the fire pit, enjoy dinner on the charcoal grills, or simply relax while taking in the peaceful mountain surroundings.
Whether you’re hiking Shenandoah National Park, driving Skyline Drive, or exploring Luray Caverns, Hillside is the perfect home base for your Shenandoah Valley getaway.
Plan Your Shenandoah Valley Getaway
From underground wonders to breathtaking mountain overlooks, Luray offers unforgettable experiences in every season. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, floating the Shenandoah River, exploring charming downtown shops, or marveling at the incredible formations inside Luray Caverns, you’ll quickly discover why visitors return year after year.
When it’s time to relax, Hillside Hotel welcomes you with thoughtfully remodeled accommodations, modern amenities, and genuine hospitality just minutes from the area’s most popular attractions. We look forward to helping you create lasting memories in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley.
