Location: Buena Vista
Top Things to do in Buena Vista
10 Things to Do in Buena Vista That You Shouldn't Miss
Buena Vista (/ˌbjuːnəˈvɪstə/ BEW-nə-VIS-tə) is an independent city located in the Blue Ridge Mountains region of Virginia in the United States. As of the 2010 census, the population was 6,650. The Bureau of Economic Analysis combines the independent cities of Buena Vista and Lexington, along with surrounding Rockbridge County, for statistical purposes.
Restaurants in Buena Vista
1. Virginia Military Institute
Overall Ratings
5 based on 399 reviews
Reviewed By JonInIndy - Indpls., IN
Stopped at VMI on the way home from a week spent in VA. Specifically went to see the VMI museum.
The museum is free, although donations are accepted, and has a very nice displays that take you through the history of the establishment of VMI to the present. Upon entering the building you first encounter the auditorium (museum is downstairs) which has a large painting of the VMI cadets in the battle at New Market. In the museum the extensive gun collection they have is well displayed and also takes you through a chronological timeline of firearms. There are many historical items with descriptions of each which gives you an idea of the times. The hide of Stonewall Jackson's horse, Little Sorrel, stretched over the frame of a horse is a highlight. Different uniforms are also displayed. It was interesting to see who some of the people who attended VMI were. Not too large, but on two floors, you can easily spend 1 - 1 ½ hours in the museum.
We happened to visit on the day of the ring ceremony and saw the cadets polishing the "rock" ring and box the whole time we were on the grounds. You can get a guided tour from cadets (if available during your visit) or take a self guided walking tour.
Wish we would have planned to spend a day in Lexington to explore the whole campus (take the tour) and visit other historical sites in the city.
2. Virginia Safari Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Drive along our 3 mile - 180 Acre natural park, viewing(and feeding) herds of free-roaming animals from your car, such as Antelope, Deer, Elk and Llamas! Walk through the 10-acre Safari Village and see Tigers, Cheetahs, Kangaroos, Primates, Reptiles, a wide variety of birds and much more! Don't forget to feed the giraffe and visit the petting barn! We're located in the Shenandoah Valley, a short day trip from Roanoke, Lynchburg, Staunton, Charlottesville, Richmond, Maryland and DC.
Reviewed By Sue H - Wake Forest, North Carolina
We took Elementary aged grandchildren. They enjoyed seeing the animals on the safari and feeding some. The bigger animals were intimidating to them but they loved observing them. Holding the bucket with two hands wasn’t a problem for the 8 year old but I lost 2 buckets to an ambitious Emu and Llama. Thank goodness you’re given extra empty buckets to pour the food into so you can divide it out. Beautiful animals and wonderful variety.
Everyone’s favorite part was feeding the birds once we parked and went by foot inside the park. . We spent a lot of time there. Remember to buy bird sticks before you head down as it’s a bit of a hike back to the gift store to purchase them.
Only disappointment was the cafe. It’s a snack bar with only outdoor seating. We visited on a 37 degree day and a place to warm up would have been welcome. The PB&J was thawed and good. Hot dog was cold. BEST part of cafe was the children’s meal was served in a sturdy safari hat that they wore proudly. They were out of Nachos and a few other items. Nothing if you have dietary concerns such as gluten.
They fed the giraffe with 3 pieces of lettuce purchased by credit card for $5. That purchase was at the giraffe site. Many caged animals who seemed well cared for. Fun to walk along the trail with kangaroos hopping by. Clean bathrooms. Minimal gift shop.
Look for KOA sign if coming from Lexington as we missed it. It’s on the same road as KOA. From the other direction signage is better. Thus how we found it when we turned around.
We spent 3 hours and loved it.
3. Layne's Country Store
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20 reviews
Reviewed By photographia - Fort Mill, South Carolina
Layne's is 1 1/2 miles off of I 81. Beautiful ride off the highway and a little insight into how beautiful this area of Virginia is. My GPS took me onto a gravel road and I found all sorts of farm animals in the road,which I thought was a hoot. The store had been there for ages. Owner was very helpful and they have a very large selection of jams ,jellies and pickled items. They also have local hams and bacon. They carry hoop cheese and a small variety of cheeses . It is a nice break when you are on the road for hours .
4. Panther Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By breb - Bemidji, Minnesota
We visited Panther Falls by recommendation of a local (from Lynchburg), and we really felt it was a beautiful Virginia experience!
The drive takes you up into the mountains and allows you to see the beautiful Virginia countryside. The entrance is very near the Blue Ridge Parkway, so it's convenient to get to!
The road is marked and named "Panther Falls", but after that there are no markers until you get there. We followed our GPS and it didn't take us to the exact location in the end ... We recommend using your GPS but whenever you drive by a kiosk (wooden sign), be sure to stop and read it. One will say "Welcome to Panther Falls" and will talk about swimming safety. This is a popular swimming hole in the summer from what we heard.
Park at the kiosk and wander down the trail, it's not well marked but you can see the foot path. You'll know when you've made it to the falls ... beautiful boulders and scenery, and a fast flowing river will greet you!
We've visited once and will likely visit again on a day we'd just like to get out of the house for a drive and a walk!
5. Lee Chapel and Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 437 reviews
Reviewed By 627chuckm - Frisco, Texas
My wife and I thoroughly loved this museum, rich in history and personal accounts of Robert E. Lee. One can sit where General Lee, a devout Christian, worshiped, and can see his room, left completely undisturbed after his death.
6. The Natural Bridge of Virginia
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
Striking? Majestic? Visit the monumental National Historic Landmark & discover why photos don't do it justice, nor words describe it, and why the awe-struck Thomas Jefferson bought it. Follow the creekside trail to Lace Falls. Gather around Interpreters in the Monacan Indian Village. Make it a brief visit, or a day, or overnight on-site; packages available. Just 15 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway; off I-81, exits 175 & 180.
Reviewed By Sue H - Wake Forest, North Carolina
We hiked down to view the bridge which was cool but the best part was hiking farther to the Native American village and 50’ waterfall at the end. If steps are a problem or if you’re tired, take the tram down and/or back. Nice gift shop and snack bar. We took grandchildren ages 6 and 8 and they loved it.
7. Washington and Lee University
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 204 reviews
Established in 1749, Washington and Lee University is the ninth-oldest college in the United States.
Reviewed By bbeerbower - Peachtree City, Georgia
This is a small easy to walk campus. One of the prettiest Universities in the US so stop and take several photos. be sure to stop by the Lee Chapel and walk up hill to view the other college, VMI
8. Natural Bridge Caverns
Overall Ratings
4 based on 411 reviews
Caverns in the Shenandoah Valley that extend 34 stories underground.
Reviewed By UVAJD99 - Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Although there are one or two species that exist only here, the overall experience is nothing much if you have traveled the world very much. Plus, there are better caverns up and down the nearby 81 corridor. That said, if you visit the Bridge, which you must--it is a world wonder--then go for the caverns while you're there. The recently rejuvenated hotel has things to be proud of, but be aware that the resto is not one of them. The bar, however, is fun if you want to talk to friendly locals and fellow travelers. Just avoid high summer when humidity and heat make it all such drudgery, except for the caverns, which are a welcome--almost chilly--respite from the pressing heat.
9. George C. Marshall Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 116 reviews
The independent Marshall Foundation perpetuates Marshall's legacy through scholarship, leadership and statesmanship programs and facilities (including a museum and research library) that offer a wide range of resources and materials for use by the general public, amateur historians, scholars and students of all ages.
Reviewed By erik f - Killingworth, Connecticut
On the grounds of VMI, this was a very interesting Museum dedicated to one of the best generals the US ever had.
It does cost money to go in, but discounted for students and free for Vets.
You could easily get caught up with the history and spend an hour or so in here.
Well done!
10. Stonewall Jackson House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 311 reviews
Reviewed By adminnbc - Asheville, North Carolina
We love visiting historic homes and, while this is a small one, the staff is welcoming, friendly & knowledgeable. Knew nothing about Stonewall Jackson before the visit (except as Civil War general). Nice video to start and then tour was thorough and honest - some things are original, some period, some replicas. We left feeling like we knew the "man" vs. the legend.
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