We’ve all been confined to our houses for quite a while, and many of us are anxious to get outside. Fortunately, there are many outdoor activities in and around Madison, VA to cure your cabin fever.
Graves Mountain Farm
While this activity is only open in the fall, it’s one that will surely become a family tradition. This farm is home to an apple orchard that allows visitors to pick their own fruit. The farm will provide you with a bag, basket, or box for you to store your selections in as you make your way among the more than 27 varieties of apples available. You won’t believe how many different apple flavors there are in one place!
Yoder’s Country Market
Just about anything you’re looking for can be found at the indoor/outdoor Yoder’s Country Market. Specialty groceries are located inside the large barn-like structure, including fresh gourmet meats, artisanal cheeses, homemade baked goods, mouth-watering soups and salads, and snacks for every taste. Outside, you’ll find a petting zoo with alpacas, geese, turkeys, ducks, chickens, goats, sheep, pigs, and more. This attraction is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Graves Mill Historical Park
For the history buff in your family, head over to the Graves Mill Historical Park, which is an official Virginia Cultural Historical Site. Inside the park is a memorial to 40 men from the Madison area who fought for Virginia during the Civil War. Additionally, you’ll be able to tour a replica of a post office from the 1900’s, which contains genuine and original post office furniture. If you’re interested in local history, this is definitely a must-visit attraction.
Shenandoah National Park
If nature is high on your list of outdoor experiences, Shenandoah National Park is your ideal destination. The spectacular sights in the park are simply stunning, whether you just drive through the park, or stop and hike for a while. You’ll pass towering waterfalls, wildflower-filled meadows, and peaceful forests thick with trees. Wildlife is abundant, and you’re likely to see birds, deer, and even a black bear or two. Go for a day hike, or camp for a weekend.
Civil War Trails
The Civil War Trails attraction features two Madison County sites that commemorate the locations of two Civil War battles. The James City battlefield is where Confederate Major General J.E.B. Stuart encountered Union Generals Kilpatrick and French, and Jack’s Shop battlefield remembers the skirmish between J.E. B. Stuart and Union Generals Burford and Kilpatrick. This is a perfect driving trip for anyone interested in U.S. history. You can also stay at the bed & breakfast at Jack’s Shop for an extended experience.
Hayrides at Graves Mountain Lodge
On Friday and Saturday nights, Graves Mountain Lodge hosts a moonlight hayride, which includes an entire campfire experience. You’ll not only get to view the gorgeous surroundings on the hayride, but will also enjoy roasted marshmallows over an open fire, campfire stories, and even a wildlife sighting or two. This is a wonderful activity for a family or a romantic evening for two.
If you’re starting to go a little stir crazy being cooped up inside for too long, give one of these fantastic outdoor attractions a try. Contact Madison Ford for driving directions to these and other excellent local activities.
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