Downtown Leesberg
Photo: Joe Flood
just a mile from the park, which traces the history of this branch of
the military. Aircraft hang from a soaring, glass-domed gallery, with
adjoining exhibits on major conflicts.
Luray Caverns
nps.gov/prwi/; 703-221-7181
LURAY, VA.
Distance from downtown D.C.: 90 miles
This small town at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains is also a
gateway to Shenandoah National Park. Its quaint downtown is a
National Historic District filled with locally owned shops. Take a stroll
or cycle along the Hawksbill Greenway, a two-mile creekside trail rich in
birdlife. Five miles east of downtown is the 34-acre Lake Arrowhead. Its
white-sand beach, picnic shelters and concession stand make it an ideal
spot to linger on sunny summer days. The Luray Zoo, a privately-owned
rescue facility with a reptile jungle and petting zoo, is also worth a visit.
DON’T MISS
Luray Caverns, just west of town. A 1.5-mile path winds through the
cave system’s spectacular formations, including the Great Stalacpipe
Organ, which plays music. Claustrophobics needn’t fret: The chambers
rise from 30 to 140 feet high.
LurayPage.com; 540-743-3915
AUTUMN 2017 57 FLYWASHINGTON.COM