One of the most essential parts about a road trip is careful planning, and what turns a normal drive into a “road trip” are sometimes silly and downright awesome stops along the way. Going to a music festival should be more than just experiencing music, it should be about living in the moment, having new adventures, and taking off on journeys of self-discovery. As you start planning for this year’s LOCKN’, we’re here to help get you get on the road and make some memories.

Estimated Drive Time: About 3 1/2 Hours
Approx. Distance: 268 Mile to LOCKN’
Estimated Gas Cost: $50 Average

1. United States Botanical Gardens

United States Botanical Gardens
100 Maryland Ave SW
Washington, DC 20224
(202) 225 – 8333
https://www.usbg.gov/
Google Maps

The United States Botanical Gardens is a living museum. Established by Congress in 1820, the garden is the oldest botanic garden in North America. Here you can immerse yourself in beauty and contemplate the adventure ahead of you.

2. Giant Roller skate

Giant Roller Skate
12099 Marsh Rd
Bealeton, VA 22712
(540) 439-3168
http://bit.ly/Rollerworks
Google Maps

One of the many wonders of the modern world is a giant roller skate made entirely of wood and plaster. Doesn’t this seem like the perfect place to stop for a selfie?

3. Graffiti House

Graffiti House
19484 Brandy Rd
Brandy Station, VA 22714
(540) 727-7718
http://www.brandystationfoundation.com/
Google Maps

Directly located on the route down to Arrington on Brandy Road, the Graffiti house is a tiny, quaint, old storefront turned hospital that was used for both Union and Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. Why is it called the Graffiti House? The entire inside of the house is decorated in cryptic messages and inscriptions from soldiers who were either staying or just passing by. Talk about a time capsule!

4. Barboursville Vineyard + Beautiful Ruins

Barboursville Vineyard + Beautiful Ruins
17655 Winery Rd
Barboursville, VA 22923
(540) 832-3824
www.bbvwine.com
Google Maps

A classic vineyard with a large array of wines, this vineyard sits between Shenandoah and the Grand Caverns. For Sommeliers and beginners a like, you can enjoy a great afternoon of tasting wines or sit out on the hills called “The Ruins.”

5. Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park
3655 U.S. Highway 211 East
Luray, VA 22835
(540) 999-3500
www.nps.gov
Google Maps

A revered national park, Shenandoah offers spectacular views of the blue ridge mountains at Stony Man overlook. This National park is a great adventure for beginning hikers/adventurers and experienced ones alike. Waterfalls, humpback rocks, and grassy mountains make for an unforgettable experience.

6. Grand Caverns

Grand Caverns
5 Caverns Blvd
Grottoes, VA 24441
(540) 249-5705
www.grandcaverns.com
Google Maps

As America’s oldest continuously operated show cave, this gorgeous cave was voted #2 in America by Parade magazine, and is a National Natural Landmark. History and beauty combine inside this grand cave.

7. Blue Mountain Brewery

Blue Mountain Brewery
495 Cooperative Way
Arrington, VA 22922
(540) 456-8020
www.bluemountainbrewery.com
Google Maps

We’re sure you probably need a beer or two by now, so it’s pretty lucky that you’re jouney has taken you to the Blue Mountain Brewery. As one of the best brewpubs in the area, this location offers a wonderful location near the Blue Ridge Mountains, a tasty selection of beers, and scrumptious food.

8. LOCKN’ Festival

Oak Ridge Farm
2300 Oak Ridge Road
Arrington, VA 22922
http://www.locknfestival.com/
Google Maps

You’ve made it! You’ve arrived at LOCKN’ Festival and it’s time to celebrate your journey and all that you’ve accomplished. You’re at your new home for four days. Now, go set up, meet your neighbors, and have fun!