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As the Blue Ridge Parkway, “America's Favorite Drive,” celebrates 75 years in 2010, Virginia invites families to join in with travel deals showcasing natural beauty and traditional favorites. The Blue Ridge Parkway is an iconic travel destination, stretching 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains. The following is a sampling of Virginia’s diverse and affordable travel packages celebrating the parkway's 75th anniversary. A complete list of package deals, as well as a chance to win a seven-day, six-night vacation for four on the Blue Ridge Parkway can be found at www.virginia.org/brp.

Natural Bridge to the Blue Ridge Package offered by Natural Bridge Hotel & Conference Center, Natural Bridge, Va., is valid through Dec. 31. The Natural Bridge is a natural archway soaring over 20 stories high across Cedar Creek in the Shenandoah Valley. The Natural Bridge to the Blue Ridge Package includes one-night accommodations at Natural Bridge Hotel & Conference Center, breakfast and passes to Natural Bridge and Trail, Monacan Indian Living History Village and Natural Bridge Caverns and museums. Prices start at $129 per night for two people and $169 per night for groups of four.

The Aerial Tour of the Blue Ridge Parkway from Best Western Waynesboro Inn & Suites, Waynesboro, Va., is valid through Dec. 31. This package features a 30-minute aerial tour by plane of the Blue Ridge Parkway provided by one of the pilots from Eagle’s Nest Airport in Waynesboro (maximum three guests). This package also includes one-night accommodations in a suite with mountain views and breakfast buffet. Prices start at $139.99 per night, based on double occupancy.

The Mariners Landing Blue Ridge Parkway 75th Anniversary Package is available from Mariners Landing, Smith Mountain Lake, Va., and is valid through Dec. 31. Mariners Landing, a family adventure destination on Smith Mountain Lake is offering the seven for five special. Clients who book five nights at the standard rate will receive two additional nights free. This package includes fully furnished condominiums, convenient amenities, lake access and daily express breakfast. Regular rates start at $156 per night and depend on room type and date of visit.

The Belle Hearth Bed and Breakfast, Waynesboro, Va., is offering a package that’s valid through Dec. 31. The package includes one-night accommodations, welcome basket, breakfast and dinner, private Blue Ridge and Shenandoah wine tasting, outdoor yoga facing the Blue Ridge Mountains, picnic lunch to enjoy by the South River and two 60-minute massages using Blue Ridge herbal oils. The package starts at $385 per night.
The Family Reunion Lodge Package Skyline Drive from Shadow Mountain Escape, Luray, Va., is valid through Dec. 31. Located near Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, these timber frame cabins rest on 15 acres bordering the park land. All cabins include intricate hand- crafted Oak timbers and extensive rockwork. A pond, stream and nature trail offer outdoor recreation. This package includes accommodations for up to eight guests, a bonfire under the stars and a welcome basket filled with homemade treats and award-winning jam. The package price starts at $1,200 for two nights. For more information, call 800-VISITVA or visit www.Virginia.org.