5.10.25. This was the first Renaissance Faire that my husband and I ever attended and, to be…read morehonest, we weren't sure what to expect. Given that it was only about twenty minutes from home, we decided to give it a try. We reviewed their website, and purchased our tickets on line -- $18 for me (adult) and $12 for my husband (Senior, 65+). We arrived around 10:15 am to a long line of cars at the entrance, but didn't have any problems with parking. At the entrance, there was an ID check for participants who wanted to purchase beer, wine, or mead inside (wristband given), and a second faster line for the actual entrance. We were given a schedule that highlighted the day's shows and activities. (This was also posted online though only the 2024 list of restaurants was posted). As the day evolved, we walked around the tented grounds a number of times, watched a number of performers, browsed some of the tented shops, watched a cooking demonstration, got a beer and a mead at one of the concessioners, and grabbed a quick lunch. (Note that most are cash only; there's an ATM on site). There was also a unique assortment of pay-for activities, such as skill games (archery, axe throwing, knife throwing), hair braiding, and fortune tellers. What we enjoyed most, however, was admiring the many costumed performers and attendees. Many of the costumes were quite elaborate though many were probably not authentic to Tudor England. We stayed for about three hours, leaving when it started to get quite warm. Overall, we enjoyed the faire, but probably not enough to go on an annual basis. The main issue was that it got crowded, and it was difficult for me (a shorter person) to see some of the demonstrations that I was more interested in -- such as the sword fighting or the queen's joust. Also, the lines were quite long for food and drinks, and insufficient tables to enjoy them. And, despite having the schedule, we never seemed to be in the right place and time, but that's on us! Lake Anna Winery is a beautiful site, and the Faire was spread out well. There were at least two First Aid stations, and sufficient port-a-potties at multiple locations on the grounds.

I've been to the PA, MD, and NY Renaissance Faires and decided I needed to give this one a try…read more Spoiler alert: I shouldn't have, as it's a very distant fourth. Day started with an absolute jerk parking cars in a lot so hilly I was not sure I was going to get my car out if it rained. That set the tone for the day. Basically, the people who were willingly volunteering their time (i.e. the Queen and her court) were amazing. Some of the best costumes I've ever seen and a real effort at historical accuracy while still being entertaining. Anyone who was actually being paid for their time less so and parking lot jerk was not my only negative interaction. Food was mediocre at best and in the case of the warm chocolate covered cheesecake (gross) possibly not safe. Venue was PACKED, lacking in any sort of charm as almost all "structures" were tents and the joust area was a sad little paddock, and vendors were aggressive. After buying two tiny bags of tea for $30 I can only assume that was to recoup their costs...but for what I'm not sure. Apparently in previous years they allowed other local vendors of mead but stopped that this year because of concerns of overserving. Um what? This is the only Renn Faire I've ever been to where people were single fisting out of actual whole wine bottles as they walked around. Apparently it's fine as long as the bottles are from the host winery? Right. I bought tickets for Saturday and Sunday and didn't even bother to go back Sunday. It's a real shame as the volunteers clearly put in a lot of effort to make this a good experience and it's ruined by the poor quality of the venue and its workers.

Went there tonight with the family and was not disappointed. Tractor ride to the isolated entrance…read moreand even a haunted corn maze to escape. Definitely worth it and will be back

My sister and I won tickets to this attraction and we were very excited to check it out. We made…read morethe hour+ trip on opening weekend. When we arrived, the place was almost deserted. We took our waivers and tickets to the ticket booth, where we were greeted by friendly staff, and started our journey. Right off the bat, we had trouble seeing the path. There was a long (did they take the long way?) hayride full of dust in our face. So, we started with dry, burning eyes. Bring eye drops! When we arrived at the entrance, there were four visitors and a few employees. We assumed we would get to go with the other two customers, but instead, they split us up and sent each group in with an employee tailing us. My sister and I don't startle easily, so we generally enjoy being with others who do startle; that is the part we enjoy. That and the cool effects. Since we were sent in with other customers, we didn't enjoy the attraction much. The employee who was tailing us received the bulk of the startles and attention. Also, the path was hard to discern. And there were really long, empty paths, then one small "scare", then another long, hard to follow path. It also seemed disjointed, like they could use a "theme" for the path. We did enjoy some of the effects, but we did not like having to crawl through the hearse and jump out the other side. We also didn't enjoy the part where we were in a small box and we were stepping on an actor. Especially since it seemed like this place was using a lot of underage actors... Some of them looked like they were ten years old! At the end, the staff selling refreshments were really friendly and we enjoyed the conversation. It's not the worst attraction we have visited, but it's also not the best. My all-time favorite is still "The town of the living dead" that was in Powhatan, VA. (no longer exists). The theme, story telling, props, actors, and effects all came together in a symphony of horror. I really hope to find that again in my lifetime. IMHO, it was worth the drive to try it out, but I doubt we will try it again. Let us know what you experienced!

Great local business keeping the magic of drive in movie experience alive! Staff has always been…read morecourteous and very helpful. Go see a movie in car or on lawn chair.

The Goochland Drive-In is definitely a nostalgic experience, and as someone who had never been to a…read moredrive-in before, it was the perfect first impression. Everything about it feels vintage and fun such a refreshing change of pace for a summer night. My first time going we saw Twister but on this visit we saw The Bad Guys and Jurassic World, which was fun They also mix in retro and vintage classics too which really adds to that old school drive in charm. Parking was super easy with no hassle at all, and the staff makes the whole process smooth. One thing to keep in mind: newer cars apparently don't always work the best for drive-ins since mine kept shutting off (maybe I'm slow idk lol) , but they have portable radios that are definitely clutch. Overall, it's an enjoyable time here, and it's fun for a different pace for a summer activity.

A gem of a gallery!! We loved getting to hear from Mr. Nichols himself about his incredible…read moreartistic process and seeing the beautiful work he has done! Mr. and Mrs. Nichols were informative, welcoming, and inviting! Can't wait to return soon!!

Mineral, VA. July, 2025. Hidden Pond Farm is a hidden gem in a rural area near Lake Anna. This…read moreVeteran-owned flower farm is dedicated to increasing awareness and raising funds for farmed animal sanctuaries. Growing over 70 varieties of beautiful, seasonal flowers nestled in 3 acres (and growing) of gardens to explore, the farm welcomes guests to pick their own flowers, attend flower-inspired events and workshops, learn how to create their own cut-flower garden, or just enjoy the gardens (and pond!). They also have a pop-up flower truck available to rent for your special event. We recently hosted a group (from California, West Virginia, North Carolina, and Nepal) in our Louisa County home to celebrate my husband's birthday. Our daughter called the farm to ensure that they were open for visitors and off we went. Our visit to Hidden Pond Farm was a double-win -- allowing a fun, pick-your-own flowers family activity AND providing beautiful floral decorations for the party. We came back with five bouquets (@ $10 each), a real bargain for the beautiful flowers and the fun activity. Even a 2-year old enjoyed running on the paths next to the flower gardens. We also enjoyed talking with the friendly owner. A few notes -- (1) the farm is open April-October; (2) open dates and times are subject to change based on weather, field conditions, and bloom availability. We recommend calling ahead before venturing out. (3) no pets allowed. (4) professional photography prohibited (unless prior permission is granted). (5) no smoking. (6) restrooms are NOT AVAILABLE. (6) this is a working farm -- so there will be dirt, mud, uneven ground, bugs, and occasionally poo. (7) dress appropriately. Wear closed-toe, comfortable shoes and sunscreen (the gardens are in full sun).

I visit this area because I have relatives in the area. I love Orange. And this bookstore is one of…read morethe reasons. I love poking around in old bookstores & have been going to this one for nearly 30 years--it used to be across the street with the books in cardboard boxes. Can find real treasures here if you like old books. I can't afford new books but I can really indulge myself here in any subject. I don't live near it & hate that covid prevents me from visiting.

For curiosity sake, I ventured into this little book shop once. The store manager was friendly and…read moreher dog was the cutest, friendliest attention hound ever. :) The place is pretty packed with books! (so be ready to rummage a bit) I found some cool vintage sewing books and one great old cookbook. There were no prices anywhere, so I was confused, but assumed it wouldn't be too much. When I went to check out, she told me "whatever you want to pay". Huh?? I had no idea it was a donation only book store! How awesome is that?? :) $5 later, I had two amazing books. Seriously, go check it out if you want to rummage a bit and find a hidden gem.

Making music fun for my son. It is great to see him excited about the lessons and practicing. Even…read morewhen it means he has less time for video games ;).

My 4 yr old son has been learning piano here since this spring and he just loves it! The teachers…read more are very good and patient with kids, also skilled and equipped with providing each student with their own unique experience. Mr.Stevens is the perfect teacher for my son, he actually inspires a love for music in my son. I was just hoping my 4 yr old could be more exposed to music and instruments when we started. Mr.Stevens makes learning music so fun and engaging. Now I can tell that my son is learning piano because he loves to and not because I force him to. He loves to practice and I enjoy hearing him play. He looks forward to his lesson every week. I couldn't be happier. They provide different music lessons for all ages....Guitar, Piano, Drums, Voice, etc. I wish I could find my guitar in the closet and take a lesson myself some day. Highly recommend to kids and parents who love music! It is an awesome school and affordable!

examen des cols bleus…read more Churches are everywhere a round the lake! This church is probably the oldest in the area! They started the year with a new pastor from the Richmond area! They have two services and both are great! It's easy to walk in and loose yourself here! They are forcible friendly at times ! If you are not part of the fold , it can be hard to get to know people ! The music can be very loud and somewhat dramatic! The music pastor is extremely energetic! This place has a school which is a major support for the church! It's certainly at times have a business feel at times! We go to the 10:30 service and find that's a better time for us other then the 9 o'clock service They are sound biblically and a big focus on missions! I think all churches have taken a hit!