Highland Springs, Virginia: A Tourist Guide

Welcome to Highland Springs, Virginia, a small yet charming city located in Henrico County in the United States of America. Known for its significant Civil War history and beautiful parks and nature reserves, Highland Springs, Virginia, offers many attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. In this guide, we'll explore the best places to visit and things to do in Highland Springs.

Richmond National Battlefield Park - Gaines' Mill Battlefield and Visitor Center

The Richmond National Battlefield Park is a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in the Civil War. The Gaines' Mill Battlefield and Visitor Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the famous battle that took place here during the Civil War. Visitors can tour the grounds and learn about the history of the area through interactive exhibits and guided tours. Visit website

The Underground Railroad Experience Trail

The Underground Railroad Experience Trail is a unique attraction that takes visitors on a journey through history. This trail was part of the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by slaves to escape to freedom during the 19th century. Visitors can walk the trail and learn about the people who risked everything to help slaves escape to freedom. Visit website

Garthright House

The Garthright House is another Civil War attraction in Highland Springs. This historic house was used as a field hospital during the Civil War, and today, visitors can tour the house and learn about the role it played in the war. Visit website

Dabbs House Museum

The Dabbs House Museum is a 19th-century house museum that served as a field headquarters for a Civil War general during the war. Visitors can tour the house and learn about the history of the area during the war. The museum also features exhibits and a gift shop. Visit website

Parks and Recreation

Highland Springs offers many beautiful parks and nature reserves for visitors to explore. Here are some of our top picks:

Highland Park

Highland Park is a hilly park that features a disc-golf course, a playground, a dog park, sports fields, and restrooms. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or play sports while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Visit website

Hudson Highlands State Park

The Hudson Highlands State Park is a picturesque park that offers hiking trails and stunning views of the Hudson River. With over 8000 acres of land, visitors can explore the park's diverse landscape and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. Visit website

Virginia Highlands Park

The Virginia Highlands Park is a lovely urban park that offers play equipment, athletic fields, and courts for basketball and tennis. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or play sports while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding city. Visit website

Donaldson Park

Donaldson Park is a large riverfront park that provides sports fields and courts, picnic groves, a dog park, and two playgrounds. Visitors can enjoy a day out by the river and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. Visit website

Schooley Mill Park

Schooley Mill Park is a diverse landscape that features trails, athletic fields, equestrian rings, a playground, and picnic areas. With something for everyone, visitors can enjoy a day out in nature and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. Visit website

Three Lakes Park & Nature Center

The Three Lakes Park & Nature Center is a beautiful park that features woods, wetlands, and wildlife. The nature center offers hands-on exhibits and an aquarium that visitors can explore to learn more about the area's environment. Visit website

Other Attractions

Highland Springs offers more than just parks and nature reserves. Here are some other attractions you won't want to miss:

Fort Ligonier

Fort Ligonier is an 18th-century British fort that has been reconstructed and turned into a museum. The museum offers guided tours and features artifacts and a gift shop. Visit website

Karen Owens, Travel Agent with Destinations to Explore

Travel agency Karen Owens, based in Highland Springs, can help plan your trip to the area and offer advice on the best places to visit and things to do. Visit website

Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center

The Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center is a fascinating attraction that offers interactive exhibits about the area's natural history. Visitors can learn about the environment and wildlife of the region while enjoying hands-on activities and engaging displays. Visit website

Geronimo Adventure Park

The Geronimo Adventure Park is an outdoor adventure park that offers ziplining, rope courses, and other adrenaline-pumping activities. Visitors can challenge themselves and have fun while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding area. Visit website

Franny Reese State Park

Franny Reese State Park is a large park that features trails and the ruins of a 19th-century estate. Visitors can enjoy a hike or bike ride through the park while taking in the beautiful scenery. Visit website

Highlands Aerial Park

Highlands Aerial Park is an outdoor adventure park that features ziplining and other activities high up in the trees. Visitors can challenge themselves and have fun while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding area. Visit website

New Germany State Park

New Germany State Park is a vast forested area that offers primitive campsites, canoeing, nature trails, fishing, and winter recreation. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Visit website

Cold Harbor Battlefield Visitor Center

The Cold Harbor Battlefield Visitor Center is an information outpost at a Civil War site. It is the starting point for tours of the site of a historic clash between Confederate and Union forces. Visitors can learn about the history of the area and the role it played in the Civil War. Visit website

Middle Patuxent Environmental Area

The Middle Patuxent Environmental Area is a conservation land that offers scenic trails and an array of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a hike or bike ride through the park while learning about the environment and the wildlife that calls it home. Visit website

Conclusion

Highland Springs, Virginia, offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're interested in the area's Civil War history or want to explore its beautiful parks and nature reserves, Highland Springs has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the charm and beauty of this lovely city.