Discover Blue Ridge Parkway’s First 106 Miles

Things to do along the Blue Ridge Parkway Near Our Bed and BreakfastThe Blue Ridge Parkway, nicknamed “American’s Favorite Drive,” is a stunningly beautiful road that stretches for 462 miles from Virginia to North Carolina. Millions of visitors travel through the Blue Ridge Parkway every year, exploring the rich history, cultural traditions, and stunning natural beauty of this area. As you travel along the parkway, you’ll discover some of the oldest mountains in the world, some truly breathtaking scenery, and some of the world’s most incredible biodiversity.

Nestled just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway is Steeles Tavern Manor, a luxury Bed and Breakfast offering a welcome respite for those traveling along and exploring the parkway. We’re situated between the popular towns of Lexington and Staunton, VA, and are located in the northern Ridge section of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our historic Bed and Breakfast features 5 luxurious guest rooms as well as private cabins, both of which will help you feel right at home as you explore the area. No two visits here are the same. This summer, stay with us and explore the portion of the parkway nearest our Inn.  Book your room with us today!

106 Miles of Breathtaking Beauty on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is broken up into four different districts, stretching north to south. Steeles Tavern Manor is located near the northernmost section, The Ridge. This summer is the perfect time to come explore this exceptionally beautiful part of the parkway, and our Bed and Breakfast serves as a great home base for the duration of your stay in the area. The Ridge stretches from the very start of the parkway in Afton, where Shenandoah National Park ends and continues through milepost 106.

Courtesy of Forest Wander on Flickr, Creative commons

The majority of the parkway in this area includes the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, but there is plenty of rolling farmland to admire along this portion of the parkway, too. There are a number of wonderful communities to explore along this portion of the parkway, including Staunton and Lexington, which are each around 20 minutes on either side of our Inn. Within these 106 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, here are just a few of the things we recommend you do:

  1. Visit Natural Chimney Regional Park. It is home to rock formations of up to 120 feet, which stands in stark contrast to the pastoral terrain of the Shenandoah Valley below.
  2. Enjoy plenty of fishing opportunities in the area, including along the South River, Tye River, James River, Piney River, and Lake Nelson.
  3. Staunton‘s one-of-a-kind Blackfriars Playhouse is a must-see destination, as it is the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s original indoor theatre. It’s currently open under their safe-start program.
  4. Visit one of the many incredible waterfalls in the area, including White Rock Falls, Crabtree Falls, considered the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, Wigwam Falls, Apple Orchard Falls, and Fallingwater Cascades.
  5. Visit Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, the personal retreat of the famed 3rd President of the United States, or his former home at Monticello.
  6. Visit Natural Bridge State Park, which is home to an impressive 215-foot tall Natural Bridge that was formed as Cedar Creek eroded through this limestone gorge.
  7. Visit one of the many apple orchards in the Nelson County area. There are more than 40 varieties of apples and peaches grown here, a harvest that is widely celebrated each fall.
  8. Towards the southern edge of The Ridge section of the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Peaks of Otter area. There are hiking trails in this beautiful area, and it’s well worth the visit.
  9. Visit one of the wineries or breweries in the area.
  10. Relax, unwind, and let us take care of you while you enjoy the peaceful tranquility of our property and Inn at Steeles Tavern Manor.

Things to do along the Blue Ridge Parkway Near Our Bed and Breakfast

Where to Stay Along the Blue Ridge Parkway

When it comes to lodging on the Blue Ridge Parkway, there’s nowhere that will match the luxury accommodations and exceptional hospitality found at Steeles Tavern Manor. Our historic Inn, tucked into the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers you a secluded and private getaway, and serves as the perfect base from which to explore this portion of the parkway.  With nothing but 50 beautiful acres of land surrounding us, which includes a spring-fed pond, walking grounds, meandering creek, and an in-ground swimming pool, you’ll want for nothing during your time here.

We often say we’re “in the middle of it are,” and it’s true.  From here, you can easily explore different stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway, as well as Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park just to the north of us.  There’s so much to do around our Bed and Breakfast that we can’t possibly capture it all in a single blog.  We can offer you the chance to get away to our beautiful Inn, though, where you can see it and explore it for yourself.  What are you waiting for?  Book your room at our Shenandoah Valley Bed and Breakfast today!

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Mid-Summer Savings

Head for the Shenandoah Valley to escape the Summer heat! Reserve two or more nights in August in the Manor or a cabin and get a 10% discount on the room rate.  Book directly online to receive this special discount.

Bourbon Tasting Anyone?

Elevate your stay at Steeles Tavern Manor by booking a custom bourbon tasting.  With over 40 bottles in our collection, we have something for everyone.  See this package and others on our Packages & Specials Page.

Give The Gift of Steeles Tavern Manor This Christmas

Give your loved one a very special gift of a stay at Steeles Tavern Manor.  We offer gift certificates in many amounts.