On one hand, “The Dukes of Hazzard” ended in 1985. On the other, it lives on at Cooter’s Place in Luray.
The General Lee doesn’t rip through the back roads of Georgia anymore, but you can see it, and many other Hazzard vehicles at Cooter’s Museum and Garage. (But don’t count on seeing the original General Lee; over 300 of the 1969 Dodge Chargers were wrecked during the seven-year run of the show.)
Something about that show resonated with people. Alma Viator, who has been called the “business genius” behind Cooter’s, told us, “The joy and innocence of “The Dukes of Hazzard” gave folks a wonderful escape and release from the turmoil of life. The show, especially the old-fashioned values of the show, are still beloved as something that reflects the virtues of family and home and brings back cherished memories of a simpler time.”
Cooter’s Place works hard to preserve that joy and innocence; “Dukes” was popular as a family show, and Cooter’s holds family traditions dear. Alma said, “The show appealed to families because it was a welcoming space for all ages. We try to reflect those values at our stores. The greatest compliment we receive is that our store, like the show, not only “brings back memories,” but creates new ones. We feel like we “bring out the kid” in everyone.”
Visitors to Cooter’s Place will find a massive amount of Dukes memorabilia, clothing and toys; posters of Daisy, Luke, Bo and other characters, and a large screen television airing episodes of the series. All of the cars from the show are on display, and there is a full scale replica of Cooter’s Garage. Visitors can enjoy a meal at “Daisy’s Diner,” browse the two rooms of the shop, and then visit the enormous museum and garage.
But Cooter’s doesn’t stop there. Ben Jones– aka “Cooter” himself– signs autographs and takes photos with fans every Saturday at Cooter’s from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. In Jones’ long career he has been an actor, musician, U.S. congressman, writer and political commentator.
Country culture puts a great value on music and entertainment, and Cooter’s holds concerts throughout most of the year. One just held August 4th was particularly exciting. Alma said, “We were so honored and excited to have Dion Pride, who continues his family’s legacy in the tradition of the Great Charlie Pride, his dad.”
Also on the music front, Alma added that “Cooter and Cooter’s Garage Band give free concerts from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. every Saturday, and we have great Bluegrass concerts every Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. For car enthusiasts we have a “Cruise-in“ from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday August 11th.”
Last but far from least, Alma wanted us to know, “Daisy’s Diner has a fabulous new chef –“Chef James” –who has just come to us from Disney World where he was a chef for six years!!
There is no admission to Cooter’s and parking is free.
Lodging Nearby:
All Star Lodging (For cabin rental help)
Brookside Cabins
The Country Place Lodging and Camping on the Shenandoah River
Crestview Cottage
Fort Valley Ranch
Hotel Laurance
Luray Caverns Motel
Luray Mountain Cabins
The Mimslyn Inn
The Manor House and Cottage Collection
Shadow Mountain Escape
Shenandoah National Park Lodging
Shenandoah River Outfitters