The Natural Bridge is, well, pretty much what the name suggests: a piece of rock that was formed into a gigantic archway, resembling a bridge.
The 20 stories of natural, solid rock has been included in several "Seven Natural Wonders of the World" lists.
There's a lot more to do there, though, than just staring at rock. Try a walk along the Cedar Creek nature trail, which begins down Cascade Creek and ends about a mile later at Lace Falls. You can also explore the caverns. The cavern tour takes roughly 45 minutes. While on the tour, you'll see Mirror Lake, the Well Room and all the stalactites and stalagmites that grow in the Canyon Room.
Natural Bridge (15 Appledore Lane, Natural Bridge, Va.) is located between Lexington and Roanoake, near the Blue Ridge Parkway, MP 61.6.
Ticket pricing is separated into tiers. The bridge and caverns package is $28 adults; $16 kids. Caverns only, $14 adults; $9 kids ages 5-12. Bridge only, $18 adults; $10 kids ages 5-12.
We recommend buying tickets to the bridge and caverns, since it includes the most bang for the buck -- and how could you not visit one or the other? Hey, you're already there.
The purchase of a ticket for both includes admission to Natural Bridge, Natural Bridge Caverns and a guided tour, the new Butterflies at the Bridge (Virginia largest indoor butterfly garden), Cedar Creek Nature Trail and Monacan Village, wax and toy museums, and the "Drama of Creation" show at dusk.
Cavern hours: 10 a.m.- 5p.m. daily, March through November.
Cedar Creek Trail: 9 a.m. until dark.
Natural Bridge: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
TRAVEL DEALS
If you're looking for a good travel package, consider the Natural Bridge Hotel. They have a few specific packages for certain holidays that also include admission to the bridge and caverns. See deals here. Seasonal events at the hotel include a Thanksgiving buffet, holiday dining with Santa, and a New Years Eve Gala.
They also offer weekly dining specials. Friday night there's a seafood and prime rib buffet; Saturday is the barbecue buffet. You'll need to make a reservation for each dinner event, since they seem to book up quite quickly.
