Celebrating our wedding in Shenandoah National Park was one of the easiest decisions we made in the planning process, and we hope you’ll make a little adventure out of your visit!
For the Adventurer
The Park stretches along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and is known for its sweeping valley views, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil forest trails.
The Skyline Drive is a scenic road that runs the length of the park and offers plenty to see, even without a long hike. If you’re feeling adventurous, some of Shenandoah’s most famous hikes include Dark Hollow Falls a short drive away, and Stony Man Loop near Skyland Resort. Whether you’re on the road or hitting the trails, keep your eyes peeled for deer, rabbits, bald eagles, and (from a safe distance) black bears!
For the Sommelier
Just east of the park in Charlottesville, Virginia lies the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA), known as the Birthplace of American Wine. The region has everything from casual tastings and behind-the-scenes tours to picnic spots with picturesque mountain views. Our favorite in the area is King Family Vineyards – bring a lunch, enjoy a glass, and take in the scenery!
If grapes aren’t your jam, check out the local orchards and cideries, where apples have been grown and enjoyed since the 17th Century, even by Thomas Jefferson himself!
For the Historian
History buffs and architecture aficionados will find beautifully preserved examples of Thomas Jefferson’s distinctive design taste in a day trip to the Monticello estate and gardens or the University of Virginia Grounds. If you’re more of a geologist, a short trip north from the park takes you to Luray Caverns, one of the largest cave systems in the eastern United States.
Closer to D.C.
On your way into or out of town, we encourage you to check out the sights in our nation’s capital. We love to walk the National Mall and admire the monuments and museums. Speaking of, our favorite museums in the District are the National Air and Space Museum (and its sister site in Virginia, the Udvar-Hazy Center), the National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum of American History, and the US Botanic Gardens.
A trip to DC would not be complete without heading underground to see the Brutalist architecture featured prominently in America’s Subway. Once a distant target on Anthony’s public transit bucket list, Metro is now a staple of our everyday life! We highly recommend taking public transit if you go into DC; it is much easier and safer than driving and parking.