Lucky Lake Gem and Mineral Mine of Virginia Here’s an activity that’s fun for all ages. Discover some earthly treasures at Lucky Lake Gem and Mineral Mine. Get your screening material and then take a seat along the partially covered 100-foot flume line, which is open rain or shine. Begin sifting through your dirt and watch in amazement as colorful rocks and minerals materialize and the water washes them clean. Knowledgeable helpers nearby will identify your “finds,” free of charge. If you’d like, you can have the stones graded and cut by Lucky Lake’s professional gemologist and stone cutter and put into a piece of jewelry for years of enjoyment. Just remember to wear old clothes because you’re going to get wet and dirty. But heck, that’s part of the fun. There’s a picnic area, too, if you want to pack a lunch. luckylakeva.com • (804) 478-5468
Courtesy of Lucky Lake
(McKenney) 2–3 hour drive
Luray Zoo Slither, slither, slither. Luray Zoo is known for its snake collection, one of the largest on the East Coast, but you can see more than 250 exotic animals at this rescue zoo. The Reptile House alone has more than 80 indoor exhibits and is home to cobras, rattlesnakes, lizards, turtles and many more species. A few of the reptiles are even television stars. You can enjoy live educational shows on the weekends, featuring various mammals and exotic birds from around the world. A petting zoo, with a llama, goats, burros and cages containing a wonderful sampling of exotic rescued animals, can be found in a safe outdoor play area. A camel is a new addition the petting zoo offered. lurayzoo.com • (540) 743-4113
Courtesy of Luray Zoo
(Luray) 1–2 hour drive
Madison County (Madison) 0–1 hour drive There is no shortage of activities in the Madison community. Check out the Madison County Chamber website for a full description of events and destinations, including wineries, antique shops, parks and festivals. With the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley as the backdrop, there are plenty of outdoorsy activities that both you and the kiddos will love. Take a moonlight hayride at Graves Mountain Lodge, then rest by the bonfire and listen to tall-tales told by the local tour guides. Take in the lush terrain on horseback, or stay by the CharlottesvilleFamily.com
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