The Natural Bridge Virginia, a natural rock formation in the shape of a short arched bridge, is often considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The Natural Bridge in Virginia was once owned by Thomas Jefferson (purchased in a land deed from King George III for 20 shillings!), and was initialed by George Washington. The Natural Bridge Virginia stands 215 feet tall and 90 feet wide, and is open every day from 8am until nightfall.
A trip to the Natural Bridge in Virginia also includes a music and light show presented at nightfall called, “The Drama of Creation.” Music from some of America’s greatest composers accompanies the light show and creates a haunting and mystical backdrop for the dramatically lit Natural Bridge in Virginia.
Another Natural Bridge Virginia bonus is the Cedar Creek Nature Trail. The Nature Trail will take you through a series of natural exhibits including the Ancient Arbor Vitae Tree, a 1500 year old tree that’s 56 inches wide, as well as Saltpeter Cave, The Lost River, and Lace Falls, a beautiful water fall cascading down the Natural Bridge in Virginia 50 foot drop.
You’ll also want to visit the Monacan Indian Village nearby to the Natural Bridge Virginia. The Natural Bridge in Virginia and the Monacan Indian Nation of Virginia have joined together to construct a living history Monacan Village complex that invites visitors to step back in time and experience Monacan Indian life from 300 years ago. Visitors will learn about and assist Monacans with canoe building, construction, fishing, gardening, and other daily tasks. Combined admission tickets are available for all activities or you may purchase them separately. Admission price for each activity ranges from $6 -$12 per person.
For a great place to stay at the Natural Bridge Virginia, contact the Natural Bridge in Virginia Hotel, formerly known as the Jefferson Cottage. This hotel has accommodated travelers since 1833 in spacious rooms including mountain views. Hotel amenities include: interior hallway access, irons & ironing boards, coffee makers, high speed internet access, and hair dryers, as well as a Colonial Dining Room that serves breakfast and dinner daily. AAA discounts are available; contact the hotel directly for reservation information as nightly room rates range from $70 - $130.
Before you head out to see other bridges in Virginia, stop by the Natural Bridge Virginia Wax Museum. The Natural Bridge Wax Museum features scenes of Virginia and Natural Bridge history where the curtain opens on George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and the Confederacy, all perched on narrated sets. You can also stop by the nearby Haunted Victorian Manor and visit Professor Cline's Haunted Monster Museum, set in a stone house originally called the Stonewall Inn. It was built around 1870 and was used as a hunting lodge and summer mountain retreat until the early 1970s, when the Inn was closed. Visitors call the museum bizarre and unique, full of fun family entertainment.
Other bridges in Virginia you may want to visit are located in Patrick County or Sinking Creek. These bridges in Virginia are covered bridges that happen to be disappearing at an alarming rate due to poor maintenance and vandalism, so take a day trip, and see them before they disappear forever.
