Virginia is full of hidden treasure, but did you realize there exists a place where actual gems can be found? A trip to the Morefield Gem Mine in Amelia promises a day of thrilling gem cultivation for visitors of all ages. Not only is the site historic, but it also provides plenty of entertainment for anyone interested in crystals and minerals.
Established in 1929, the historic Morefield Gem Mine is located at 13400 Butlers Rd, Amelia Court House, VA 23002.
After Mr. Morefield drilled into the outcrop and exposed more minerals, it was only a matter of time before word got out to the U.S. Geological Survey. He operated the mine himself until 1931, when it was leased by the Seaboard Feldspar Corp.
During WWII, the site was used to mine for strategic minerals that would help establish national mineral security.
Using your own tools, you can carefully dig through rock piles to see what hidden gems await. Be sure to wear close-toed shoes and clothes you don't mind getting a little dusty.
Several times during the day, a front-loader deposits rocks from inside the mine for visitors to search for.
It's the most wonderful time of the year here in Virginia. As we enjoy the crisp fall weather, we can't help but look ahead to the upcoming season of celebrating the holidays in Virginia with family, friends, and loved ones. Whether you're looking to take part in a classic Christmas celebration or experience something totally new, you'll want to plan a visit to Bedford, an enchanting Virginia Christmas town. You'll find that this picturesque mountain town is infused with the spirit of the holidays. From the glow of Christmas lights downtown to the dusting of snow up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, here's why a Bedford VA Christmas is one that belongs at the very top of your wish list.
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1. Stop by the Bedford Area Welcome Center for the Festival of Trees.
Welcome to Bedford! To celebrate the holidays, the Welcome Center will be decked out in stunning lights and other seasonal decorations. This year will mark the 16th annual Festival of the Trees, which will run from November through January at the Bedford Area Welcome Center.
2. Explore the Artisan Markets and take part in Small Business Saturday.
Meet some of Bedford's most talented artisans and local vendors at the Mistletoe Maker's Market. It's the perfect place to browse for gifts or one-of-a-kind items for your home. Small Business Saturday is also a great way to give back to the local community and let's face it, there are few things more fun than shopping local! You'll love admiring the fine art, jewelry, soaps and body products, woodworking, and many more items.
The festivities continue on December 2nd, 2024, with the annual Peaks of Otter Classic Christmas 5K. The race begins at Beale's and is welcome to runners and walkers alike. Enjoy the crisp morning air as you also admire the landmarks of Downtown Bedford.
The holiday parade will make its way through downtown Bedford. Old Saint Nick himself will be joining in on the fun, so don't miss your chance to wave and snap a photo! That evening, you can experience Christmas in Centertown and the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree. The event will include live music, dancers, and other festivities you won't want to miss.
Downtown Bedford is a treasure trove of unique shops and stores where you can find countless gifts for everyone on your list. Whether you're looking for homemade crafts, clothing, jewelry, or something else altogether, you're bound to find it in one of the friendly downtown shops. Who knew that holiday shopping could be such an enjoyable experience? This year, Something Else Boutique & BVA Mercantile have partnered together to create an unforgettable shopping event known as Sleigh All Day, which features unique items for sale as well as events for visitors.
No visit to Bedford would be complete without at least a little time spent in the mountains. Whether you're looking for a refreshing stroll or a hike through the mountains, you'll find plenty of opportunities to get your nature fix while you visit. Need some inspiration? Check out the nearby Peaks of Otter trail.
Beale's Brewery is a relatively new addition to Bedford's food and drink scene, and it's become a beloved staple of the community. Whether you're looking for a seasonal craft brew to enjoy or something to snack on, you'll love the community feel of this small-town brewpub.
8. Experience the Flames of Memory at the National D-Day Memorial.
Bedford, Virginia is home to the National D-Day Memorial, a tribute to the sacrifice and bravery exhibited by those involved in our country's WWII efforts. Beautiful any time of year, the monument is especially moving during the holidays. The Flames of Memory honors the 4,414 men killed on D-Day with thousands of luminarias. Those who attend on this day will experience WWII camp displays, Christmas crafts, and pictures with a G.I. Santa. During all three nights, Nomad Coffee will be on-site to provide warm beverages. If you are interested in learning more about the event, you can visit the official Flames of Memories or Christmas in Wartime website.
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9. Drive through the Elks Home Annual Light Display.
This year will mark nearly 80 years that the Elks Home has set up a mesmerizing light display for visitors and residents to enjoy. Drive through and you'll be delighted by the cheerful displays and animations that light up the night.
10. Stay the night at a cozy inn or bed & breakfast.
So much exploring warrants a good night's sleep, so why not stay at one of the local bed & breakfasts? Bedford Landings is one of many nearby accommodations that will make you feel like you've found a second home. This timber-framed inn is located near Smith Mountain Lake and promises to be the perfect landing spot for your trip. You can also check out these unique vacation rentals in Bedford VA.
Have you visited Bedford, Virginia during the holiday season before? If so, we'd love to hear about your favorite experiences there. For more information and additional trip recommendations, be sure to visit Destination Bedford, Virginia online.
Looking for a one-of-a-kind train trip near you? While road trips offer a unique way to experience Virginia's landscape, nothing is more relaxing than a train ride through the Virginia countryside. Considering you don't have to worry about traffic or keeping your eyes on the road, opting for a scenic railway excursion is bound to put your mind at ease. If you've never considered taking a train ride purely for the views, then the Buckingham Branch Railroad's passenger excursion is one of the prettiest Virginia train rides to start with! Here's more on this picturesque adventure:
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All aboard! Buckingham Branch Railway's renovated steam passenger locomotive takes on new life every fall.
Officially the Virginia Scenic Railway, this fall you can climb aboard to experience all the history that comes with boarding an American steam legend on this unforgettable journey through the countryside during peak fall foliage.
There are two main Virginia train trip excursions to choose from: the Blue Ridge Flyer and the Alleghany Special, which take riders though the Shenandoah Valley and past lovely, photo-worthy views of the Alleghany Mountains
On the Alleghany Special, each ticket for the three-hour excursion includes a meal and dessert selection, plus a beverage that is served in a complimentary souvenir glass.
Undoubtedly one of the best scenic train trips in Virginia, this train ride will roll through the changing colors in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests and into the vibrant hues of the Shenandoah hills.
On the Blue Flyer, you'll not only get to experience rolling rural landscapes, like on the Alleghany, but pass through rock tunnels as well. Plus ascend nearly 1,000 feet up for a truly incredible vantage point of the fall colors.
Ticket prices these both of these train rides in Virginia vary based on class. The train is a bi-level dome car, and the upper car has a glass ceiling, so those tickets are more expensive (but totally worth it).
Get ready to book your tickets for a gorgeous fall adventure on the Virginia Scenic Railway! But don't wait too long to plan - word on the street is tickets tend to sell out before summer ends. And remember, boarding for these autumn train trips is at the historic Amtrak Staunton station in Staunton, Virginia, with the exact address released following ticket confirmation.
Have you experienced a scenic excursion ride on the Buckingham Branch Railway during fall? What about any other train rides in Virginia? We'd love to hear from you!
