The Rockbridge County area can be a daunting gauntlet for first years and upperclassmen alike. 

If a student isn’t familiar with the Shenandoah Valley, the 600 square miles of land, four cities and towns, and the many shops and restaurants can be overwhelming and leave students wondering where to start.

The staff here at The Ring-tum Phi want to make this task easier, so we gave our advice on the must visit spots, things to do, and places to eat within Rockbridge County.

Julianna Stephenson, Editor-in-Chief: Tantivy Lavender Farm

“The lavender fields are beautiful, and they sell so many lavender products – from lavender honey ice cream and teas to soaps and bug spray. In addition to beautiful fields and a cute little shop, there are so many animals to visit!”

“It is a perfect way to get out of the W&L bubble for the day. While you’re there, ask the owners Brian and Penny about their story. They are such kind people with a fascinating background. There’s nothing quite like connecting with locals in the Rockbridge area!”

Aiden Kelsey, Editor-in-Chief: Devil’s Marbleyard

“My favorite place to hike in Rockbridge County is Devil’s Marbleyard. If you haven’t heard of it, it’s this big boulder field south of Lexington, with rocks that are genuinely the size of cars.” 

“There are few things more freeing than scrambling up those rocks and then looking down at the view below.”

Cami Knott, Managing Editor: Straws

“I love stopping by Straws in Buena Vista for one of their sodas! I highly suggest ordering the Lime in the Coconut, but get it with Dr. Pepper. It will change your life! Plus, Buena Vista itself is just a super cute little town to wander around in.”

Aliya Gibbons, Director of Recruitment and Outreach: Blue Ridge Parkway

“Blue Ridge Parkway! It’s beautiful during sunset, to drive around or pick an overlook to sit and hang out. Perfect for long drives by yourself or with friends with the music blasting and windows rolled down.”

Liz Trubeck, Web Editor: Freedom Point

“My favorite place in Lexington is Freedom Point which is about a mile or so off of campus. I love that you can see the entire town of Lexington and the surrounding area, as well as the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.”

Emily Scaff, News Editor: Pronto

“My favorite place in Lexington is Pronto! Pronto has the best coffee and pastries in town – and it has seen my academic highs and lows throughout my college career.”

“It’s my favorite place to lock in during finals week or have a weekend debrief with friends (paired with an iced mocha and a cronut). The owners are also so community-orientated and will always support a cause.”

Joshua Davidson, Local Editor: Juniper Lounge

“The Juniper Lounge is a great restaurant on the second floor of the Gin Hotel. They have great burgers, appetizers and entrees, as well as a super cozy environment.”

“Whether you’re eating there with friends, during parents weekend, or just need a quick bite to eat, it’s one of the must-eat-at restaurants in Lexington.”

Hana Chang, Arts and Life Editor: Yarn Place

“My favorite place in Lexington is the Yarn Place. It’s such a nice cozy place to visit if you are interested in the fiber arts.”

Jackson Doane, Opinions Editor: Oak Grove Cemetery

“My all-time favorite place in Lexington is the Oak Grove Cemetery. Not only is it hauntingly beautiful, but it’s also a quiet sanctuary where I can sit on a bench, let my mind wander, and reflect beside Stonewall Jackson’s gravesite.”

Teddy Kavanagh, Opinions Editor: Chessie Trail

“I love going to the Chessie Trail to run! There are so many beautiful sights and people to see.”

Ava Tallat-Kelpsa, Multimedia Editor: Blue Ridge Parkway

“My favorite place is at one of the overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway! I first went there with my Geology spring term class during the day and with a close friend of mine during the night.”

“From the overlooks on the parkway that’s past Buena Vista you can see all of BV and even Lexington in the distance! It’s such a peaceful place to just sit in silence and appreciate the mountains and our small towns.”

Sydney Devory, News Staff Writer: Pronto

“I love coffee and it is a great place for me to get my schoolwork done or catch up with friends!”

Josh Darrow, Local Staff Writer: Just Games

“It’s such a great community and local small business with fun events every weekend!”

Edwards Settle, Sports Staff Writer: The Palms

“It has great pizza!”