| If you are looking for a peaceful vacation spot where you can recharge your spirit and enjoy the beauty of nature, you may want to take a close look at Luray, Virginia. This small town, located right beside the beautiful Shenandoah National Park, is the home of the famous Luray Caverns.
There are several accommodation choices. You may want to rent a cabin on the outskirts of Luray, such as the Peach Orchard Hide-a-Way. Families can save quite a bit of money by using a rental cabin, since you can cook some of your meals instead of going out to eat and you do not have to run to the laundromat. Also, parents can enjoy some much needed peace and privacy, since the cabins have several bedrooms. Look for a cabin that includes a game room, the opportunity to soak in a hot tub, and additional activities, such as fishing in a man-made lake. If a rental cabin is not right for you, you may want to find accommodations right in the park. Cottages and camping sites are both available.
There are many activities available, so you probably will not be able to visit everything in the Luray area in less than a week. Most people come to Luray to explore the beauty of the Shenandoah National Park. You do have to pay a modest fee to enter the park, but the ticket is good for the entire week, so you can come back each day and explore another part of the park.
On a lovely scenic drive through the park, we saw a bear and plenty of deer. If you want to get up close and personal, you can stop at Big Meadows and hike out to watch the deer feed. People can literally walk right up to the deer.
Shenandoah has some very nice falls. However, if you are visiting the park as a family, you may not be able to reach the falls, since the trails to them are not as easy to hike as some of the other trails. You can still enjoy looking at wildflowers, birds, and interesting bugs on the easier trails, such as Limberlost Trail. Don't forget to bring plenty of water or sports drinks and a few snacks for the kids and be sure to turn back before you feel too tired.
The Luray Caverns are a bit pricey, but worth the admission fee. They are spectacular and the music in the cathedral is incredible. Make sure you get a good look at Caesar's Ghost. Just be sure the kids hit the restroom before going in or you will be red faced and gasping after speed walking up the steep incline through the last part of the tour to rush them to the restroom. Once you leave the caverns, you can visit the antique car museum, which is included in the cavern ticket price. There is food available at the caverns, but it is kid's cafeteria fare. I would recommend one of the local restaurants instead.
Other area attractions include a miniature golf course and a local zoo. Grocery stores and a Walmart super center are available, as well.
Finally, don't forget to take time to sit and relax during your vacation. After all, if you miss a few spots, you can always visit again next year.
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