UVA State Arboretum of Virginia

Trying to find some options for “day trips” that are within an hour or two from where we live I compiled a list of potential places. Last week we went to Stratford Hall. That took us to the northern neck of Virginia. This week we thought a trip to the State Arboretum of Virginia in Brandy might be nice. Getting there on the I-66 construction zone was certainly not relaxing. But once we got off the highway the side streets were quite enjoyable. There are probably better times of the year to visit since it was blistering hot! I tried to use the self guided tour but their internet wasn’t working. So we stumbled around the area hoping to see interesting trees, plants and flowers. It is also called the Blandy Experimental Farm managed by the University of Virginia. We walked amongst the conifers and then took the native plant trail and checked out the observation deck. Then we drove the car around the site and passed through the Cedars of Lebanon. Apparently there are a lot of year round programs and activities. This was just another way for us to feel like we were on vacation since we haven’t taken one for over two years. We always bring two oranges, crackers and water in a cooler for a snack to have on the way home. We took the back roads to avoid the construction zone but ended up on the toll road - something I prefer to avoid. Getting in and out of town is always a driving nightmare. Maybe we will do these trips every other week? We are always so happy to get back home. In the end it’s all about the company rather than the journey or the destination.