Doswell Travel Guide

Plan your Doswell vacation with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring top-rated attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety tips, and transportation options.


Are you looking for a peaceful getaway that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of city life? Doswell, in Central Virginia, is the perfect place for you. From natural attractions to museums, hiking, biking to adventure sports, this delightful town offers an array of activities to make your vacation enjoyable.

Introduction to Doswell

Doswell is a charming town located in Central Virginia that is popularly known for its proximity to the Kings Dominion Theme Park. Doswell is the perfect destination for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts who are looking for a serene and fun-filled vacation. This town offers plenty of outdoor and indoor activities, breathtaking views, and cultural experiences that will make your journey unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in Doswell

Here are some of the top-rated places to visit in Doswell during your vacation:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Meadow Farm Museum - This unique museum is a living history farm, showcasing the agricultural and rural lifestyles of the mid-19th century.
  • Hanover Tavern - Located in the heart of Hanover County, this historic site is known for its rich history, delicious Southern cooking, and live performances.
  • Richmond National Battlefield Park - This park is a collection of Civil War sites and forts that provide an insight into the American Civil War.

Natural Attractions of Doswell: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Doswell State Park - This picturesque park has beautiful trails and stunning views of Lake Caroline. You can take a leisurely stroll or go for a bike ride while enjoying the scenic views.
  • James River Park System - This park system includes 17 public parks that span 550 acres of land along the James River, offering recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
  • Virginia Capital Trail - This magnificent trail connects Colonial Williamsburg and Richmond, providing a scenic route for walking, cycling, and experiencing Virginia’s natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Doswell

Doswell is a paradise for hikers, walkers, and cyclists. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes to explore on your trip:

  • Doe Creek Trail - This 3.4-mile trail is perfect for hiking and enjoying Virginia’s natural beauty. The trail is flat and accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
  • Pocahontas State Park - Located 30 minutes away from Doswell, this park offers 64 miles of hiking and biking trails that traverse the beautiful woods with streams, lakes, and wildlife along the way.
  • Ashland-Washington Trail - This 1.25-mile trail is an easy walk between Ashland’s historic district and the Town Hall. This trail is perfect for a quick outing with friends and family.

Best Things to Do in Doswell: Activities and Tours

There is an endless list of things to see and experience in Doswell. Here are some of the top things you can do in this charming town:

  • Kings Dominion Theme Park - This amusement park has over 60 rides, including 12 roller coasters, fantastic food options, and a water park. This park is a perfect spot for a family vacation.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - Take a hot-air balloon ride and experience the beautiful views and pristine natural beauty of Central Virginia from the sky.
  • Doswell Gallery - This one-of-a-kind art gallery is home to local artists and their work. You can browse and buy art pieces while enjoying a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Week-Long Itinerary for Doswell

Day 1:

  • Visit the Meadow Farm Museum
  • Explore Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown

Day 2:

  • Hiking/Biking at the Virginia Capital Trail
  • The Hanover Tavern

Day 3:

  • Visit the James River Park System
  • Enjoy a hot-air balloon ride

Day 4:

  • Visit Kings Dominion Theme Park
  • Relax at Doswell State Park

Day 5:

  • Hiking/Biking at the Ashland-Washington Trail
  • Doswell Gallery

Day 6:

  • Wine tasting tour of Central Virginia’s wineries
  • Doswell State Park

Day 7:

  • Departure from Doswell

Food and Drink Scene of Doswell

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken - The South is known for its Fried Chicken, and Doswell has some of the best in the area.
  • Biscuits and Gravy - This classic Southern dish is a must-try, and there is no better place to have it than in Doswell.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - Central Virginia is known for its wine country, and Doswell has many local vineyards to visit.
  • Moonshine - While Moonshine is illegal, in some places, it is still made and consumed as part of the area’s culture.

Where to Stay in Doswell: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Doswell (Kings Dominion), VA - Featuring comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation, this hotel is popular among families.
  • The Virginia Cliffe Inn- This gorgeous manor house offers luxury accommodations at an affordable price, making it a perfect destination for couples.
  • Shady Acres Bed and Breakfast - This lovely Bed and Breakfast offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere and is perfect for solo travelers or couples.

What to Buy in Doswell: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Virginia Wine - Central Virginia is known for its wine country, and there is an abundance of local vineyards to discover.
  • Handmade Local Crafts - Doswell has a rich history in textiles, and many local shops offer handmade crafts, clothing, and more.

Local Culture and Customs of Doswell

  • Southern Hospitality - As part of the South, Doswell is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Family-Orientedness - Family is a significant part of Southern culture, and you will find that Doswell is a perfect destination for families.

Best Time to Visit Doswell

The best time to visit Doswell is between late spring and early fall. The weather is mild, and outdoor activities are abundant during this time of year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Doswell

Do:

  • Explore the great outdoors.
  • Take a hot-air balloon ride to experience the breathtaking views from the sky.
  • Try the southern cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Doswell

Doswell is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is essential to practice general safety precautions such as not leaving valuables in your car and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Doswell

Doswell is an area with a low risk of infectious diseases. However, travelers should take general precautions such as washing their hands and carrying hand sanitizer.

Getting to Doswell: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Doswell

  • Richmond International Airport - Located 20 miles from Doswell, this airport is the closest and most convenient airport to this charming town.

Bus Stations Near Doswell

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - There is a Greyhound bus stop in Ashland, which is ten miles from Doswell.

Other Options

  • Amtrak - The closest rail station is located in Richmond, 20 miles from Doswell.
  • Uber/Lyft/Taxis - These transportation options are available in Doswell.

How to Get Around in Doswell

The best way to get around Doswell is by car. However, if you prefer not to drive, you can use taxis, ride-sharing services, or Amtrak.

Where to Go Next from Doswell: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Doswell is located in Central Virginia, and there are plenty of nearby destinations to visit. Some popular options are Charlottesville, Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, and Washington, D.C.

Conclusion

Doswell is a delightful town that offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun-filled activities. Whether you want to hike, bike, relax, or explore, Doswell has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime.