04 Dec
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, History and Museums

A Journey Through Valor and History: The VMI Museum Experience 

In the historic town of Lexington, Virginia, the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) stands as an enduring emblem of military tradition and academic excellence. Central to this institution is the VMI Museum, which has the distinction of being Virginia's first public museum. Here, visitors can explore the detailed narrative of VMI's past, which began as America's first state-sponsored military college in 1839. Let's delve into what...

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16 Nov
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Shopping

Grounds for Growth: Asunder Coffee Roasters’ Crafting Quality and Community Spirit

Located in downtown Buena Vista, Virginia, Asunder Coffee Roasters stands as more than just another coffee shop; it's a beacon of community revitalization and a testament to the art of coffee roasting. Located at 2037 Magnolia Avenue, this establishment isn't just about serving coffee; it's about crafting an experience, fostering community, and pushing the boundaries of what coffee can be. A Commitment to Quality and SustainabilityAsunder...

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28 Oct
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, History and Museums, Shopping

Discovering America’s Largest Antique Store on a Rainy Vacation Day

We were enjoying our second stay with Rock River Experiences and had planned a day around some of their outdoor recommendations. As raindrops pattered against the windows of our cozy vacation rental, these plans took a backseat. Little did we know that this rainy day would lead us on an unexpected adventure to what is recognized as "America's Largest Antique Store"—the Verona Factory Antique Mall,...

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03 Oct
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Shopping

Enjoy Local Craft Wine, Beer, or Cider at 10 Locations in Rockbridge County! 

Rockbridge County, Virginia, is home to a vibrant community of local breweries, wineries, and cideries. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, a wine lover, or a cider connoisseur, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to 10 must-visit places in our area.  Brew Ridge TapsLocated in the heart of Lexington, Brew Ridge Taps offers an excellent selection of craft beers, with a rotating menu of local...

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21 Sep
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Shopping

Layne’s Country Store’s Sandwiches

Layne’s store has been a staple in the Rockbridge community since 1954, selling a range of local and homemade goods, and so much more. You can read more about Layne's Country Store in our article from December of 2023, but here we wanted to write a short Rock River “Experience” specifically about their awesome sandwiches. Pictured is a country ham and hoop cheese sandwich ($8.50). Also...

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06 Sep
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities

Review of the 2024 Sci-Fi Movie “Atlas”

Hey there, movie lovers! We are excited to have you here for our very first movie review—thank you for reading! Please note that Rock River Experiences won’t regularly submit movie reviews; we will continue to showcase all Rockbridge County has to offer! We offer this review as a service announcement for anyone without Netflix, who might have missed a new movie we really enjoyed. “Atlas” is a...

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16 Aug
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Shopping

 A Beautiful Day at the Farmer’s Stand on 40th in Buena Vista, VA

What a beautiful day to visit the Farmer’s Stand on 40th,  located at 144 E 40th St. Buena Vista, Virginia! Operated by Tomlin Family Acres, this urban homestead has become a beloved local destination for fresh, local farm-sourced goods. The stand is stocked with a delightful variety of items, ensuring that all your farm-fresh needs are met.What’s AvailableAt the Farm Stand the selection changes and...

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10 Aug
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Shopping

Circus City Brings Its Eclectic Charm to Lexington, VA

After a decade-long run in Sarasota, Florida, the beloved Circus City Architectural Salvage has found a new home in Lexington, Virginia. This vibrant, circus-themed store, known for its one-of-a-kind collection of salvaged items and art, has relocated to the heart of Rockbridge County, offering locals and visitors alike a unique shopping experience. Hours of operation Thur-Sat 10-5 and Sun 12-4. From Sarasota to the Shenandoah ValleyIn...

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28 Jul
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Shopping

Possum Run Produce Stand – Another Must Visit Rockbridge County Gem!

Located at 1327 Thornhill Rd, Lexington, VA, Possum Run Produce Stand is a charming local gem that offers a delightful array of fresh, locally sourced produce. Most grown or baked on-site. It is a favorite among residents and visitors alike.  The produce stand embodies the essence of farm-to-table freshness, ensuring that all products are harvested at their peak for maximum flavor and nutrition. The stand's location...

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24 Jul
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Hikes, Nature

Wild Berry Bonanza: A Guide to Berry Seasons from May to August in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley

This guide is based on foraging southern Shenandoah Valley, around Lexington and Natural Bridge, Virginia down through Roanoke, VA. Berry enthusiasts can enjoy a diverse array of wild and cultivated berries throughout the late spring and summer months in Shenandoah Valley. Here's a guide to the berry seasons in this region:Spring BerriesMulberries: These are typically the earliest berries to ripen, usually available from late May...

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