26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Luray (VA)

Located in the historic and picturesque Shenandoah Valley, Luray is a humble town in the county seat of Page County in northern Virginia.

Though it may not appear to offer much at first look, a closer look will unveil lots of interesting and fun things to do in Luray, VA.

The town is bordered by the Blue Ridge Mountains and is emphasized by the Shenandoah River’s flowing banks. This town offers an astounding range of recreational possibilities, natural preserves, cultural history, and gorgeous attractions.

The streets of Luray are the reflection of the town’s history traceable back to the 1800s. There are brick structures with big display windows housing the cafes and storefronts with retro-warehouse and folk-inspired Victorian designs.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Luray, Virginia.

Things to Do in Luray

1. Enjoy the scenic views of Stony Man Mountain

Stony Man is the second-highest peak in Shenandoah at 4011feet after Hawksbill at 4,051 feet. This mountain has only 400 feet ascent, making the top an easy climb that offers some of the most incredible views in Shenandoah National Park.

There are three different routes that hikers can try to the summit of Stony Man Mountain. You can take the simple 1.6-mile round trip hike.

But if you are ready for the challenge, you can take the more difficult 9-mile route through a famous rock wall called Little Stony Man.

Finally, got can take a 3.6-mile moderate round trip to the top. This one combines Little Stony man and two other scenic paths.

You should go on a clear day to maximize your experience.

2. Explore Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns are the biggest caverns on the East Coast of the United States and it is Virginia’s top tourist attraction.

Located at 100 Cave Hill Road, the caverns were discovered in 1878, and this destination attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

If you want to make the most out of your visit, the best recommendation is that you go on guided tours through its well-paved, properly-lit corridors. There are lots of photo ops as well.

The tunnels have heightened halls with 10-story ceilings where you will see large stone structures and other natural wonders. The depth of the cavern’s Giants Hall is 164 feet, which is the equivalent of 16 stories!

There is an area here, named “The Cathedral,” which features an organ traced to the 1950s. It was used in weddings and other ceremonies at the time.

Apart from the shimmering drapery and the majestic stone columns, you will get the chance to relish its crystal-clear ponds and several diverse crystalline types of limestone known as ‘calcite.’ There are several mineral formations and natural formations in the caverns, you have to be careful not to break off any piece.

The tour ends with a wishing well, where tourists may throw money into a tiny pond as a toss. Metals in the coins cause the water’s hue to transform to deep aqua blue.

3. See a Movie at Page Theatre

One of the fun things to do in Luray, VA, is going to Page Theater. The decor inside is worth seeing, pink on the outside, intricately designed on the inside!

It is always a pleasure to go to see a movie here as Page theatre houses several eclectic movie theaters. One of the theaters is Egyptian themed, and there is another boasting a bit of a Medieval vibe with swords on the walls, metal axes, and knights’ armor.

Page Theatre was the original vision of Jerry Spencer. However, after he passed away, the Hoke family purchased the theater and gave it a fresh breath. The theatre underwent some renovations and opened back up!

They are open seven days a week.

Address: 33 E Main St, Luray, VA 22835, United States

4. Dine at the Valley Cork

Located at 55 E Main Street, Valley Cork is a must-stop if you desire to try some of the most delectable dishes and local wine in Luray.

You can unwind with your loved ones by pairing its wines with a cheese platter. Apart from its specialty wines, they have craft beers and ciders, which you may try out.

Valley Cork has an extensive menu that includes everything from charcuterie boards to steaks to flatbreads to pasta, and many more!

It also has regular live music performances, and you may also join special events in Valley Cork, like pop-up dinners if you are in luck of being in town at the time.

Kindly ensure you book tickets and make reserve space in advance. The restaurant is open every day of the week except on Sunday.

Address: 55 E Main St, Luray, VA 22835, United States

5. Stop in at the Luray Train Station

A stop at the Luray Train Station offers you a three-in-one package because the building is a Visitor Center and also a small train museum.

The Visitor Center provides the perfect resource to speak to someone about things to do in Luray, VA, and even the greater Shenandoah Valley region.

As you walk through the front door, you see a lot of pamphlets and brochures right on the wall for diverse activities in the area.

Next, you can access the train museum through a small hallway from the Visitor Center. Here you read about the massive role the train station and train travel played in the development of Luray at the beginning of the 20th century.

The station was first built in 1907 but was rebuilt in 1908 after a fire outbreak. Though the rail line is still in use, the last passenger train passed through the city in 1952. Currently, about 13 freight trains pass through every day.

Luray Train Station was purchased by the town and restored in the early 21st century. The desk at the station is original, and even the paint colors reflect how the station looked in the 1940s.

Address: Jct. Campbell St. and Norfolk Southern Railway, Luray, Virginia

6. Travel Back in Time at Car and Carriage Caravan Museum

If you are a car aficionado, this museum is a must-see. But even if you are no car enthusiast, the brilliance of these automobiles’ designs will keep you gaping in excitement.

Car and Carriage Caravan Museum is a specialty museum located at 100 Cave Hill Road. Admission into this museum is included as you visit Luray Caverns.

Though small, this antique vehicle collection features carriages and automobiles that date back to the early 1700s. The pioneers of the Caverns have collected several historically significant and unique automobiles.

You will see automobiles showcased in the museum with fifty of them already repaired and maintained, and all but two have functioning engines.

Every vehicle and carriage on the exhibit has signage explaining what makes them special. Look out for the trail wagons, stagecoaches, buggies, trail wagons, and classic cars like the 1897 Mercedes-Benz, and Stanley Steamer, to mention a few.

Address: 970 US-211, Luray, VA 22835, United States

7. Enjoy a Concert of Singing Bells

Just across from Luray Caverns is a tower with singing bells. Though more often known as the Luray Singing Tower, its official name is Belle Brown Northcott Memorial.

The tower has singing bells, 47 bells to be precise, and it has been around since 1937. It is one of the local attractions that are free to enjoy.

Don’t miss out on the regularly scheduled concerts during spring, summer, and fall.

8. Visit Chinquapin Oak

Next on our list of top things to do in Luray, VA, is seeing Chinquapin Oak, a natural wonder in the city.

Drop by 121 S. Court Street to admire nature’s magnificence, especially if you love arbors and enjoy the outdoors.

The Chinquapin Oak was first planted in 1755, 21 years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.

It stands at 96 feet tall, with a circumference of 21 feet and an area of 122 feet. There is a piece of information engraved on the stone bench in front of the tree, so you can check to know more.

You can also see the top of the Chinquapin Oak while walking along the Hawksbill Greenway route.

Are you planning a road trip in Virginia? here is a guide on things to do in Front Royal and things to do in Yorktown for a fun trip.

9. Shop for Antiques and Virginia Items

Located in historic downtown Luray, Virginia Gift Shop offers unique gifts for all occasions and home decor, collectibles, cards, assorted gifts, and cute seasonal items.

Established in 1945, Virginia Gift Shop also provides personalized service to its customers. Among their popular lines, you would see Vera Bradley, Caswell Massey, Pandora Jewelry, WoodWick Candles, and Yankee.

They have a growing boutique section that features Switchflops by Lindsay Phillip, reversible jackets from Winding River, and single-size separates from MagicScarf, which are perfect for travel. The store also offers various Virginia products, including several specialty and gourmet foods.

Operation time for this gift shop is Monday to Saturday (10 am–6 pm) and Sunday (11 am – 5 pm)

Address: 16 E Main St, Luray, VA 22835, United States

10. See a Live Performance at the Center for Performing Arts Luray

Located in the heart of downtown Luray, Performing Arts Luray offers diverse, top-quality, professional entertainment to both locals and visitors.

The Regional Center for Performing Arts of Luray (PAL) was established in 2005 and has presented year-round programming in the center of downtown Luray since 2006.

Guests enjoy music and performances of all genres, produced by local, regional, nationally, and internationally recognized musicians, actors, performers, and more.

During warmer weather months you can check in to listen to a concert on their outdoor plaza. Also, check their schedule for indoor concerts and performances especially during the winter or spring season when it’s a bit cold outside!

Address: 1 E Main St, Luray, VA 22835-1902

11. Cooter’s Luray

Cooter’s Luray is an exciting roadside attraction targeted at The Dukes of Hazzard fans. It is owned and operated by Ben Jones, who played Cooter, the mechanic on the classic ’80s TV show.

A third location in the franchise features a Daisy’s Dixie Diner, a gift shop, and a museum filled with DOH memorabilia, including costumes, props, and backstage photos.

On the outside, you will see vehicles such as Cooter’s tow truck, the Boss Hogg’s Cadillac, and the Dukes’ famous General Lee (a Dodge Charger).

Every weekend, Cooter’s in the Valley also offers live music, with Jones fronting Cooter’s Garage Band every Saturday from 1 to 3 pm. He also meets and greets fans after every show.

They also have guest bands every Sunday from 2 to 4 pm, and front time to time, other Dukes of Hazzard cast members are known to drop in.

Address: 4768 US-211, Luray, VA 22835, United States

12. Draw closer to nature at Hawksbill Greenway Foundation

If you want to interact with nature and observe the rich animals of Shenandoah Valley, the best spot to do that is Luray’s Hawksbill Greenway Foundation.

A 2-mile walking and bicycling route, amongst other features, await you here. Visitors can enjoy the path in segments or whole. Because for every tenth of a mile you walk, you will see yellow dots marking the trail.

You can easily calculate how far you have walked by counting the dots you have passed and summing them!

Once the greenway is finished, the total miles of the greenway to explore will be four. It has contemporary restrooms, picnic tables, drinking fountains, and parking spots that provide convenience to visitors who explore the area.

The foundation also permits fishing throughout the year, so you would be in luck if you are a trout fanatic.

Address: 45 E Main St, Luray, VA 22835, United States

13. Luray Valley Museum & Shenandoah Heritage Village

Luray Valley Museum is one of the favorite parts of the vast Luray Caverns complex. This historical museum and living history attraction offers a beautiful introduction to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley of the mid-19th century.

On the outdoor is the Shenandoah Heritage Village, where you’ll see a half-dozen local buildings that range from 135 to about 200 years old. They all contain limitless antiques from their respective eras.

You would see the Shenk Farm House too. It was built in 1876 and remains on the land where the family cultivated for multiple generations.

But the Elk Run Dunkard Meeting House (the early 1800s), Bell House (around 1835), Blacksmith Shop (around 1850), and Burner Barn (circa 1860) were all moved to the area from a few miles away, a handful of them piece by piece.

The Hamburg Regular School (circa 1885) is the most recent of these historical buildings. It is one of the oldest one-room African-American schoolhouses you will find in Virginia. 

14. Get interactive with animals in Luray Zoo

If you are looking for a place to visit with a group of kids, Luray Zoo is the best place to visit. But, if you love animals, do well to stop by and see the ones you have never seen before.

Though small, this zoo is home to different species, such as lemurs, porcupines, monkeys, and various reptiles and birds.

You would enjoy taking a personal walk through the zoo, but you may decide to take the Discovery Tour with Mark, the owner, and the zookeeper. You will even get to experience the feeding and petting of some of the animals.

If you are willing to engage in more than one of the benefits that run throughout the year, you can register for a zoo membership, this comes with many perks!

The zoo accepts donations if you wish to support the rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals. The zoo is open every day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm

Address: 1087 US-211, Luray, VA 22835, United States

15. Enjoy Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park rises from the Shenandoah Valley at the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway and comprises some 199,173 acres in the hub of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

Stretching 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge is Skyline Drive – the main road through the park. There is the rolling hills of the Virginia Piedmont to the east and the Shenandoah River and valley to the west.

Getting to Downtown Luray from the Thornton Gap Entrance Station, which is one of four Skyline Drive entrances, located at Mile 31.5, is only 15 minutes.

 It can be accessed via U.S. 211, and the entrance is open 24 hours a day, providing access to some of Shenandoah NP’s most overwhelming sections.

The park has nearly seventy gorgeous overlooks, including Crescent Rock (44), Stony Man (41.7), Mary’s Rock Tunnel (32), Hogback Mountain (20.8), and Range View (Mile 17.1).

You can also picnic with your loved ones at the Pinnacles picnic area, which is right along the Appalachian Trail.

Address: Virginia, United States

For a fun road trip in Virginia, do not miss exploring our checklist of things to do in Danville and things to do in Manassas.

16. Soak yourself in Art at Warehouse Art Gallery

Visit Warehouse Art Gallery if you are searching for a place to come together, share ideas, and revel in the art around you.

Founded by artist Jim Mayes in 2002, the Warehouse Art Gallery started as a “Center for the Arts” and currently has a 10,000-sq-ft gallery.

The gallery features over 1,000 masterpieces crafted by 90 regional and local artists. You will be amazed at what you see, thanks to the Warehouse, which can help you pick up a unique gift for a loved one or re-vitalize your creative spirit.

The gallery covers a wide range of preferences and prices. Everything you can imagine, from sculptures to jewelry, ceramics, pictures, and paintings, is available here.

Address: 15 Campbell St, Luray, VA 22835, United States

17. Eat great at South Court Inn

If you love quaint Bed and Breakfast accommodations, you will be interested in this place. It boasts a five-star review across the board, which only is a positive one. Each room has a different decoration, still in the typical Bed and Breakfast shabby chic style.

The hotel is situated outside the main downtown area but it still makes our list of best things to do in Luray, VA. One beautiful thing about its little move away from the city is that it gives guests amazing greenery and nature.

Address: 160 S Court St, Luray, VA 22835, United States

18. Unravel the Garden Maze’s Secrets

The Garden Maze at Luray Caverns is the biggest and most popular hedge maze in the Mid-Atlantic states. If you are the adventurous type, get prepared to be challenged as you journey through over 1,500 evergreen hedges.

One can easily navigate the Garden Maze thanks to the accessibility, even if you carry a baby stroller or a wheelchair.

It would require a lot of skill to pave your way through the maze and discover its mystery. Solving the biggest puzzle in the maze requires you to search for hidden targets along the route.

So, as you make your way through the labyrinth, you will pass an observation tower, secret passageways, and fountains.

There is also a closeby maze-themed gift shop where you may test puzzle-solving abilities, including a restaurant nearby.

Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835, United States

19. See Shenandoah River

The Shenandoah River is the main tributary of the Potomac River and measures around 55.6 miles long. It forms at the confluence of the North Fork and South Fork, just north of Front Royal, VA.

The South Fork drifts northeast some 98.5 miles through the verdant Page Valley, going past the towns of Shenandoah and Luray, VA.

Myriad streams feed the Shenandoah River, some tumbling down George Washington National Forest to the west and others the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east.

The South Fork of Shenandoah is surrounded by so much natural beauty. It is an awesome place for outdoor recreation, with tubing, canoeing, standup paddleboarding, fishing, and kayaking all popular activities there.

You would enjoy the services of local Luray outfitters such as Appalachian Adventures, which offer canoe, tube, kayak, fishing gear rentals, half-day, full-day, and two-day guided canoe trips on the river.

20. Have a pint at Hawksbill Brewing Co

Located at 22 Zerkel Street, Hawksbill Brewing Company is available for those in the mood for a flight, a pint, or a growler.

This brewery uses locally sourced ingredients to make the greatest craft brews propelled to live true to their slogan, “Grown here, brewed here.”

Farmer’s Brown Ale, Brown Cow Chocolate Milk Stout, and Shenandoah Sunrise Porter are only a few beers on tap at the brewery.

They also offer pilot recipes and seasonal beers regularly. In addition, they serve Boo Beer, a root beer made from local honey, as a non-alcoholic delight for visitors.

Hawksbill Brewing Co actively runs on social media, and it takes visitor comments as a yardstick to select amongst its full 5-barrel production.

Hawksbill Brewing Company is open from Thursday through Sunday.

Address: 22 Zerkel St, Luray, VA 22835, United States

21. Grab a glass at River Hill Wine and Spirits

Located along the Shenandoah River in Luray, River Hill Wine and Spirits is a family-owned, farm-based winery and distillery that adds to our list of top things to do in Luray, VA.

They take pride in producing small-batch high-quality Wines and Whiskeys. If you are a wine lover, you would certainly have an interest here

They also have a full selection of farm-raised beef and pork products, including eggs sold at the distillery building.

Address: 356 Ruffners Ferry Rd, Luray, VA 22835-4402

22. Take a stroll along Massanutten Storybook Trail

Massanutten Storybook Trail is a 0.5-mile interpretive path that allows visitors to explore the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

This route is perfect for a stroll rather than a trek. It is an ideal stop if you want to have a magnificent view of it without doing much work. Another advantage is for family members who are not up for a hard trek.

It has a blend of boardwalk and pavement at about a mile long and out. While it is not an actual trek, there are directional/informational signages along the way. They explain the rock and how the region came about, with the spectacular vista giving a worthy finish.

 Take advantage of its story-telling rock rings to share stories with friends, write in a notebook, read a book, or listen to nature’s noises.

Disabled visitors can also check-in

23. Stay the Night at Mimslyn Inn

No vacation will ever be complete without awesome accommodation. If you want to have a relaxing and enjoyable view of Blue Ridge and Massanutten Mountains, make yourself a guest of Mimslyn Inn.

Mimslyn Inn is strategically located on a hilltop at 401 W Main Street, a beautiful sight. The hotel has a lovely main structure braced with cottages behind it that may be rented out for events.

These cottages take their names after trails in Shenandoah National Park. In addition, Hawksbill Cottage is a historic building accessible to disabled guests.

They have a hot tub, and there is an outdoor pool you can access even if you have not paid for a room.

Staffs of Hawksbill Cottage welcome guests with a warm greeting, and as you enter there is a fireplace and a grand staircase that guides you to the lobby’s piano.

To cap it all, one can enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains from the hotel’s top level, but you can also admire the terrains from the balcony of your room.

 Address: 401 W Main St, Luray, VA 22835, United States

24. Skyland Stables

If you love riding horses, one of the best ways to enjoy your vacation in Luray is to check out the Skyland Stables.

Skyland Stables provides visitors with pony and horseback rides in the stunning Shenandoah National Park. Visitors experience a guided horseback ride that takes about one hour to finish on designed trails.

The kids are not left out of the fun as there are Porny rides available for them, and they must come with their guardian or parent. 

This tour allows you the opportunity to enjoy views of the Shenandoah National Park. The horseback rides begin from the stables, then across Skyline Drive, and pass the Limberlost area via an ancient apple orchard.

Address: Skyland Upper Loop, Luray, VA 22835, United States

25. Lake Arrowhead Recreation Park

The Lake Arrowhead Recreation Park is the perfect place to be if you want to enjoy outdoor recreational facilities with your friends and loved ones.

The Lake Arrowhead Recreation Area, which occupies 36 acres of land, provides two miles of pleasant hikes, a covered beach, and a swimming area. Visitors can enjoy fishing, paddleboarding, and boating.

It is such a nice place to check out if you want to go hiking and enjoy the Shenandoah area’s natural beauty. There are numerous sites to sit and appreciate the beauty of this place.

It also features a mini beach area and launch areas for kayaks and canoes. There are shaded picnic areas with grills all over the park. It is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature.

Address: 265 Lake Arrowhead Rd, Luray, VA 22835, United States

26. Kennedy Peak Hike

Kennedy Peak offers the very best scenic views in this region. It features an out-and-back trail system that offers an outstanding 360° view when you watch from the fire tower platform at the peak of Kennedy Peak.

The Kennedy Peak Hike is an enjoyable hike for all skill-level hikers. The track is properly shaded and sheltered by trees from late spring till early fall.

The start of the trail is rocky and wide and turns narrow when getting close to the peak. It is imperative to wear suitable hiking shoes for this hike.

There is a two-story observation tower at the trail’s peak, which has a large space, bench, and an outstanding all-round view of the Shenandoah River Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains, and Massanutten Mountain.

This is an excellent hike with a properly mapped trail, beautiful forests, wildflowers, low congestion, and scenic views at the peak.

Address: Fort Valley Rd, Luray, VA 22835, United States

Virginia has some of the best cities in the United States to explore, here is a list of fun  things to do in Richmond, things to do in Cape Charles, and things to do in Chesapeake for a fun exploration

Plan your trip to Luray

These wonderful locations from our list of things to do in Luray, VA, would surely give you a great treat for your vacation.

If you are looking for a weekend getaway destination with plenty of fun activities, then you will appreciate this town, though small it has an atmosphere with various options to keep you busy!

Have a wonderful experience!