The Best Day Trips for Families Staying at Wilderness Presidential Resort

Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Wilderness Presidential Resort is a haven for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. With a variety of on-site activities and special events, the resort offers something for every generation. But when you're ready to venture beyond the resort, the surrounding area is rich with opportunities for memorable day trips. From historical sites to natural wonders, charming small towns, local farms, and thrilling amusement parks, there's plenty to explore. Let's dive into some of the best day trips for families staying at Wilderness Presidential Resort.

Historical Excursion: Monticello

A visit to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello is a journey through history. Located in Charlottesville, about an hour and a half from the resort, Monticello was the primary plantation of the third President of the United States. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into Jefferson's life, his architectural prowess, and the complex history of the plantation.

What to Do at Monticello

Guided House Tours: Explore the beautifully preserved home of Thomas Jefferson with guided tours that provide deep insights into his life and times.
Gardens and Grounds: Wander through the meticulously maintained gardens and grounds, which reflect Jefferson's innovative agricultural practices.
Family-Friendly Activities: Monticello offers engaging activities designed for children, making it an educational yet fun experience for all ages.

For more information and to plan your visit, check out Monticello's official website.

Nature's Beauty: Skyline Drive

For families who love the great outdoors, a drive along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park is a must. This scenic roadway offers 105 miles of stunning vistas, wildlife sightings, and numerous hiking opportunities.

Highlights of Skyline Drive

Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from numerous overlooks.
Hiking Trails: Choose from over 500 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Popular trails include Hawksbill Mountain and Stony Man.
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species.

Skyline Drive is a year-round destination, offering different charms with each season. Learn more at the Shenandoah National Park website.

Small Town Charm: Culpeper and Orange

The towns of Culpeper and Orange are perfect for a leisurely day trip filled with quaint shops, historical sites, and local eateries. Both towns are less than an hour's drive from the resort.

Exploring Culpeper, Virginia

Downtown Stroll: Walk through historic downtown Culpeper, where you'll find a mix of boutique shops and delightful cafes. Culpeper’s culinary scene is impressive!
Museum of Culpeper History: Discover the rich history of the area, from Native American artifacts to Civil War exhibits.
Culpeper National Cemetery: Visit this serene and historic cemetery, established during the Civil War.

Visit the Culpeper Tourism website for more details.

Discovering Orange, Virginia

James Madison's Montpelier: Tour the home of the fourth President of the United States and learn about his contributions to American history.
Wineries and Vineyards: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of the local vineyards, such as Woodbrook Farm Vineyard.
Orange Downtown: Explore the charming downtown area, filled with antique shops and local restaurants.

More information can be found on the Orange County Tourism website.

Local Farms: Snead's Asparagus Farm and Miller Farms Market

For a taste of rural Virginia, visit Snead's Asparagus Farm and Miller Farms Market. These family-friendly farms offer fresh produce, fun activities, and a chance to connect with nature.

Snead's Asparagus Farm

Seasonal Picking: Depending on the time of year, you can pick your own asparagus, strawberries, and other fresh produce.
Farm Activities: Enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, and more.
Farm Store: Purchase fresh vegetables, homemade jams, and other local products.

Find out more at Snead's Asparagus Farm website.

Miller Farms Market

Farm Market: Shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products. We recommend trying their ice cream. It’s delicious!
Family Activities: Pick your own strawberries is one of our favorite activities and here you can also participate in seasonal events like pumpkin picking and Christmas tree cutting.
Farm Tours: Learn about sustainable farming practices and meet the farm animals.

Visit the Miller Farms Market website for additional details.

Thrilling Adventure: Kings Dominion, Virginia

For families seeking thrills, Kings Dominion in Doswell is the perfect destination. Just an hour's drive from the resort, this amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages.

Attractions at Kings Dominion, Virginia

Roller Coasters: Experience adrenaline-pumping rides like Intimidator 305 and Twisted Timbers.
Planet Snoopy: A dedicated area for younger children with family-friendly rides and entertainment.
WaterWorks: Cool off in the Soak City water park with slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

Check out the Kings Dominion website to plan your visit.

Activities at Wilderness Presidential Resort, Glamping Resort in Virginia

After a day of exploring, return to Wilderness Presidential Resort to enjoy a wide range of activities suitable for every generation.

On-Site Activities

Escape Room: Test your problem-solving skills in the Lost Jewel of Zanzibar themed escape room adventure.
Aqua Cycles, Kayaks and Stand Up Paddleboards: Explore the resort's lakes from any of the options available. We recommend fishing from the many Jon Boats too, the lakes won’t disappoint!
Swimming Pools: Relax in the indoor heated pool or take a dip in one of the three outdoor pools. The outdoor pools are great for young families with fun little frog and swan slides.
Pickleball: The fastest growing sport in America is here. There are three pickleball courts with spectacular views of the lake. Enjoy a little healthy family competition.
‘Unreal’ Ice Skating: Experience year-round ice skating on the resort's unique ‘unreal’ ice rink.
Disc Golf and Nature Trails: Try a round of disc golf or explore the scenic nature trails.

Special Events

Wilderness Presidential Resort also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, adding to the fun and excitement of your stay.

Dueling Pianos: Enjoy live music and interactive entertainment.
Comedy Nights: Laugh the night away with performances from talented comedians.
Beach Bands and Bonfires: Relax by the lake with live music and cozy bonfires.

For a full list of activities and upcoming events, visit the Wilderness Presidential Resort website.

Wilderness Presidential Resort is an ideal base for families looking to explore the rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture of Virginia. Whether you're visiting historic Monticello, taking in the stunning views on Skyline Drive, exploring the charming towns of Culpeper and Orange, enjoying fresh produce at local farms, or seeking thrills at Kings Dominion, there's something for everyone. And with a host of on-site activities and special events, the fun continues back at the resort. Plan your adventure today and create unforgettable memories with your family.