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21 Top Things to Do in Virginia

Make the most out of a trip to the Old Dominion with these must-see sights.

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Virginia has plenty to offer from mountain getaways to city vacations.

Virginia captures the attention of history-loving travelers. Here, you'll find Colonial settlements, Civil War battlefields and presidential homes (Virginia's the home state of eight presidents, after all). In the cities, you'll find historic architecture and cobblestone streets. Modern travelers will appreciate the state's bountiful food scene, chic museums and plentiful shopping. Ready to plan your trip? Read on below for a list of the best things to do in Virginia. (Note: Some tours and excursions may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions and parking reservation requirements. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Shenandoah National Park

Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. , residents often flock to Shenandoah National Park for a mountain getaway. You can reach the park in about two hours from the nation's capital, giving you access to more than 200,000 acres of hiking, waterfalls, wildlife viewing and scenic drives. Visitors particularly rave about Skyline Drive, a scenic road that runs through the length of the park. The 105-mile thoroughfare features plenty of overlooks to admire the scenery. When you're ready to stretch your legs, you'll have more than 500 miles of hiking trails to explore. Experienced hikers often trek the 9.4-mile Old Rag Circuit, a strenuous trail with rock scrambles that leads to a gorgeous summit overlooking the park. For an easy hike, stroll along a portion of the Appalachian Trail. The famous trail runs through Shenandoah and park visitors can walk along it for a 2-mile round-trip hike. You'll find plenty of lodges and vacation rentals near Shenandoah or you can save some cash and set up a tent in one of the park's campgrounds. Keep in mind, however, that local restaurants may have limited hours – or be closed entirely – during the late fall and winter. If you plan to stay for a weekend during these seasons, bring your own provisions. Shenandoah National Park's entrance fee is $30 per vehicle; passes are valid for seven consecutive days. The park also accepts America the Beautiful pases.

[Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Virginia .]

Colonial Williamsburg

Williamsburg has become synonymous with Colonial Williamsburg , a living history museum that shows what life was like in the 1700s. An admission ticket to Colonial Williamsburg gives travelers access to sites like the American Indian Encampment, which discusses how Native Americans and colonists interacted, and the Randolph Kitchen and Yard, which offers insight into the lives of enslaved people at Peyton Randolph's home. (Randolph was a two-time president of the Continental Congress.) The venue also showcases a myriad of trade demonstrations, including weavers, tinsmiths, silversmiths and milliners. Travelers particularly enjoyed the costumed actors scattered throughout the museum who provided great history and added authenticity. Though there are a few places to dine on-site, you may be better suited heading to nearby Merchants Square to refuel, particularly if you want something other than traditional pub fare for lunch. The shopping center has a combination of upscale options and family-friendly haunts like Mellow Mushroom and Baskin-Robbins. Following a restful night at the lauded Williamsburg Inn or Kingsmill Resort , drive about 10 miles southwest to Historic Jamestowne and Jamestown Settlement to learn more about Virginia's Colonial life.

[See more of Williamsburg: Things to Do | Hotels | Photos ]

Alexandria, particularly its Old Town district, has a something for everyone. Its location along the Potomac River offers romantic waterside dining options – Vola's Dockside Grill and Chart House earn excellent reviews – as well as a water taxi service that transports visitors from Alexandria to D.C.'s Georgetown neighborhood . Shoppers should wander King Street for its plethora of boutiques. You'll find everything from high-end clothing stores to thrift stores to specialty shops. History buffs will likely enjoy walking up to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, exploring the city's Black history along a self-guided walk down Duke Street or wandering the African American Heritage Trail. Take time to enjoy the city's art scene by strolling through rotating public art installations, visiting the Torpedo Factory Art Center (a collection of studios where artists both create and sell their art) or by timing your trip to coincide with an art festival, such as Art on the Avenue in October in the Del Ray neighborhood. Top off your day with a drink at a local establishment like Port City Brewing Company, Aslin Beer Co. or Lost Boy Cider. Book a room at The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection on King Street to stay in the heart of the action, or at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Alexandria Old Town for easy access to D.C.'s Metro train system.

[See more of Alexandria: Hotels .]

Virginia Beach

Previous travelers said a walk down Virginia Beach 's boardwalk can't be beat. Though there are many hotels and minimal shopping, beachgoers appreciated the ample dining options as well as the various statues along the route. Naturally, the biggest draw for the area is the beach. A wide swath of golden sand offers plenty of space for sunbathing or exercising (seaside yoga, anyone?), while the water beckons to surfers, wave jumpers and boogie boarders. Families will no doubt want to spend their days at the beach, but when the kids need a break from the sun, head over to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center . Here, little ones can see sharks and seals, interact with creatures in the touch pool and observe the aquarium's oyster reef. Alternatively, check out the Military Aviation Museum . The museum displays aircraft from World Wars I and II, as well as Army and Navy crafts. There's also an outdoor dinosaur park that features a collection of prehistoric sculptures. When it's time to bed down or refuel, Atlantic Avenue will be your best bet. This major street runs through the city's Oceanfront District and features ample hotels and restaurants.

[See more of Virginia Beach: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Museum lovers will relish a trip to Virginia's capital . The city's Museum District sits about 5 miles northwest of downtown and is home to the famed Virginia Museum of Fine Arts , Virginia Museum of History & Culture , Children's Museum of Richmond, Science Museum of Virginia and the Branch Museum of Architecture and Design. If you choose to stay at T he Jefferson Hotel or Quirk Hotel , both of which are located downtown, you'll have a selection of museums nearby. The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia , the Poe Museum and the Virginia Holocaust Museum are all within walking distance to the hotels. Between museum stops, check out Richmond's dining and brewery scenes. No matter where you go, you'll find an assortment of cuisines from comfort food and barbecue to Japanese and Italian fare. Spend time outdoors if you visit during spring and summer. Richmond's location along the James River makes kayaking and paddleboarding popular activities. If you prefer to stay on land, head to Belle Isle – a hidden gem, according to most travelers – for its hiking and biking paths.

[See more of Richmond: Things to Do | Hotels | Restaurants | When to Visit | Photos ]

Busch Gardens

Courtesy of Busch Gardens Williamsburg

This theme park sits about 5 miles southeast of Colonial Williamsburg, making it an easy add-on to your Williamsburg itinerary. Each zone of the park is based on a European country. In Scotland, hop on the Loch Ness Monster coaster for a wild ride that zooms you over the park's river. Whirl around in teacups on Festa Italia's Turkish Delight. Try the Griffon in France, which drops visitors 205 feet at its start then zips along the rails at 75 mph. Catch a show featuring traditional dancing in Ireland. When hunger strikes, head to Das Festhaus (loved for its German food and beer) to listen to live music while you dine. Afterward, visit the Highland Stables to meet black face sheep, Clydesdales and Highland cows. Cool down in Italy with the Escape from Pompeii water ride or head to nearby Water Country USA for water slides, pools and lazy rivers. As with most theme parks, tickets can be expensive (they start at $90 per person), but you can save some coin by purchasing a combo ticket good for both Busch Gardens and Water Country USA.

Address: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd., Williamsburg, VA 23185

[Read: The Best Water Parks in the USA .]

Arlington National Cemetery

A trip to Virginia wouldn't be complete without visiting Arlington National Cemetery . The cemetery – which sits across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial in D.C. – is the final resting place for more than 14,000 veterans, some of whom served in the Civil War. While you'll see the rows of iconic white headstones wherever you look, past visitors recommended taking time to find President John F. Kennedy's gravesite as well as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which holds the unidentified remains of a World War I soldier. It's at this tomb that you'll be able to watch the famous changing of the guard. (Note: The timing of the changing of the guard varies depending on the season. Check the cemetery's website for updated information.) You can take a guided bus tour with Arlington National Cemetery Tours for a fee or walk through the cemetery on your own for free. If you wish to find a specific gravesite, download the free ANC Explorer app to help you navigate. Travelers enjoyed the walk, but noted that there is a lot of ground to cover because of the sheer size of the site (it spans more than 600 acres). You cannot drive through the cemetery. Luckily, Metro has a stop dedicated to the cemetery on its Blue line. Keep in mind: Arlington National Cemetery is an active cemetery. As many as 30 burials are performed each weekday and eight on Saturdays, so it's important to be respectful when visiting.

Address: 1 Memorial Ave., Fort Myer, VA 22211

Charlottesville

Savvy travelers know Charlottesville is home to more than just the University of Virginia and Thomas Jefferson's Monticello (though past vacationers said you'd be remiss to skip either attraction). The central Virginia city boasts an impressive arts scene. Catch dance performances, concerts and shows at The Paramount Theater or stop by IX Art Park for live performances, craft shows, films and more. Art galleries and studios are scattered throughout the region, too. After getting your fill of the arts, stroll through the Downtown Mall . It's lined with shops, buskers and restaurants with patios. Families should take to the countryside to visit Chiles Peach Orchard for pick-your-own produce. Meanwhile, couples and groups should head out to one of the local wineries. Keswick Vineyards, Pippin Hill Farm and Jefferson Vineyards are a few popular spots. What's more, Charlottesville is a great destination for any budget. Travelers can choose to stay at high-end hotels like the Omni Charlottesville Hotel , book a quiet cottage or reserve a spot at a local campground.

[See more of Charlottesville: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Sample Virginia wine and cider

Believe it or not, Virginia is a great state for growing grapes, which means you'll find excellent wine. There are more than 4,000 acres of vineyards across the state, which is divided into eight distinct American Viticultural Areas. You'll find a large sampling of rosés, reds and whites (think: cabernet sauvignon and riesling) as well as sparkling varieties. Petit verdot, cabernet franc, chardonnay and viognier (a signature grape for the state) are all common varietals in Virginia. To maximize your time, plan your wine outings around one of 10 regions in Virginia. Guides are available on Virginia Wine's website . If you're planning on spending time in Alexandria or D.C., venture west to Manassas and sample wines from The Winery at Bull Run. It repeatedly wins accolades from the Virginia Governor's Cup, the top competition for Virginia winemakers. In the Shenandoah Valley, travelers say Bluestone Vineyard is a can't-miss stop for delectable wines and incredible scenery. Not into wine? No problem. Thanks to the state's many apple orchards, several cideries call Virginia home, many of which are located in the Shenandoah Valley (Sage Bird Ciderworks and Old Hill Cider are two favorites) and around Charlottesville (try Bold Rock or Castle Hill Cider).

[Read: Top Charlottesville Wineries to Visit .]

See the wild ponies

About 55 miles south of Ocean City, Maryland , you'll find an island best known for one thing: horses. Assateague Island stretches across the Maryland-Virginia border and each side is home to a herd of wild ponies. Virginia's herd of 150 ponies lives at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge under the care of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. The most popular time to see the ponies is during the annual Pony Swim in July. During this event, Saltwater Cowboys drive the herd from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island (where the town of Chincoteague sits) to auction the foals. The auction serves to limit the size of the herd; some auctioned foals are even returned to the herd to live in the wild. Proceeds from the event benefit the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, which provides veterinary care for the ponies. Past horse lovers said the event is a great (albeit busy) time to visit the island. If you want to see ponies without the crowds, try hiking the refuge's almost 2-mile Woodland Trail or walking along its Service Road (but don't worry, the Service Road is closed to vehicles). Chincoteague Island – across the channel from the wildlife refuge – offers accommodation options ranging from hotels to campgrounds. Restaurants line Maddox Boulevard, but keep in mind several of these places are takeout only, with picnic seating out front.

Mount Vernon

George Washington's Mount Vernon is conveniently located for those visiting Alexandria. The president's homestead sits about 10 miles south of Old Town down the picturesque George Washington Memorial Parkway. During a visit to the estate, you'll be able to tour George and Martha Washington's mansion as well as the grounds, which include stables, four gardens, accommodations that belonged to enslaved people and a variety of specialty buildings like a smokehouse and a blacksmith shop. Additionally, an on-site museum and an education center boast more exhibits about Washington's life. You'll also be able to visit George and Martha's tombs here. If you want additional insight, sign up for one of the themed tours. Tours cover everything from the lives of the enslaved people who were forced to work at the estate to filming locations from "National Treasure: Book of Secrets." You will need to purchase separate tickets to tour the mansion (available by guided tour only) and visit the grounds. Nevertheless, previous visitors said touring the home and grounds are a must-do. Others advised future travelers to budget a day to experience it all: many spent more than three hours exploring. Before you leave, stop by the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, which dishes up tasty Southern fare like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and chicken and waffles.

Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121

Luray Caverns

"Amazing," "must-see" and "beautiful" are just a few terms past visitors used to describe Luray Caverns, which are located about 60 miles north of Charlottesville. The system features a dazzling array of limestone stalactites and stalagmites (eye-catching rock formations), clear bodies of water (Dream Lake reflects just like a mirror) and chambers up to 47 feet tall. You can even hear the caverns thanks to the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which creates tunes by tapping the rock formations. The 1.25-mile paved walkway winds through the system. There's a step-free entrance to the caverns, but those with mobility difficulties may need assistance along the hilly path. Following your exploration beneath the earth's surface, stop by the area's museums, such as the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village and Toy Town Junction – included with your admission to the caverns. You can also choose to climb the on-site ropes course or search for your own jewels at Gem Sluice (each for an additional fee). Just down the road from the caverns is the town of Luray, where you'll find a few shops and restaurants. Before you tour the caverns, stop by Baby Moons for a pastry or visit Gathering Grounds after your exploration for sandwiches, salads and pie.

Address: 101 Cave Hill Road, Luray, VA 22835

Trace Civil War history

Virginia's importance in the Civil War is indisputable. It was the site of the war's first major battle (Battle of Bull Run), as well as the home of the war's conclusion (Battle of Appomattox Court House). Civil War Trails, a nonprofit organization, created several guides to help visitors explore all of Virginia's war history. Guides – free to download from the organization's website – are dedicated to certain themes or locations (such as the Shenandoah Valley and the Black experience during the war). Each features a map of sites, short explanations of each place's significance and a detailed analysis of the area's importance to the war. Previous historians were particularly fond of northern Virginia's Manassas National Battlefield Park, citing the well-kept grounds and pleasant walk. Meanwhile, Richmond explorers enjoyed seeing the White House of the Confederacy, which is part of the American Civil War Museum . Keep in mind Civil War sites are spread across the state. Do your research before you go to map out sites near your destination.

Natural Bridge

Courtesy of Virginia State Parks

This small town in south central Virginia is best known for the Natural Bridge: a 215-foot limestone gorge that looks like a bridge. The surrounding state park features 7 miles of hiking trails. The nearly mile-long Cedar Creek Trail travels beneath the bridge and takes hikers past the Monacan Indian Village, a replica site that teaches visitors about Monacan heritage and history. The half-mile Skyline Trail and 3-mile Blue Ridge Trail both offer excellent views of the surrounding mountains. The park also features a Children's Discovery Area that teaches children about the environment through play. Near the Natural Bridge, the Natural Bridge Caverns invite visitors to take a 45-minute tour that takes guests on a descent 34 stories into the earth. About a mile north of the Natural Bridge, you'll find both the Natural Bridge Zoo and Dinosaur Kingdom II (a sculpture park featuring Civil War soldiers doing battle with prehistoric beasts). You'll need to purchase tickets to the park, zoo, caverns and Dinosaur Kingdom II. The Natural Bridge Historic Hotel & Conference Center offers packages to cover your lodging and attractions, but past guests warned of dated rooms and lackluster service. However, if you're a Wyndham Rewards member, you can save some coin by booking your room at this hotel with points. Alternatively, reserve accommodations at The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Curio Collection by Hilton or Shirley's Bed and Breakfast. Both sit about 45 miles south of Natural Bridge in Roanoke.

Address: 6477 S. Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 24578

The Queen City may be a small town, but it's bursting with charm. Here, you'll find the American Shakespeare Center and its Blackfriars Playhouse, a meticulous recreation of London's Blackfriars Playhouse, which burned down in 1666. Productions of William Shakespeare's plays, as well as tours of the playhouse, are available year-round. Historians will likely want to swing by the Frontier Culture Museum to see what life was like for European colonists or learn more about President Woodrow Wilson at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. Fans of witchcraft and wizardy should book a trip for late September, when the city hosts its "Harry Potter"-themed event, Queen City Mischief & Magic. Local shops and restaurants sell specialty wares during the weekend event, and there are a host of activities like magic lessons with Hogwarts professors, trivia events and meet-and-greets with costumed actors. Wind down after your day on the town with a beer from a local brewery. Fan-favorite Redbeard Brewing Company offers everything from lagers to IPAs to stouts. Then, splurge on dinner at Zynodoa, which dishes up tasty Southern fare that consistently wins rave reviews. When you go, make sure you pronounce Staunton correctly: locals call it "STAN-tun."

Great Falls

Great Falls Park in northern Virginia is a popular option for families who love the outdoors. Near the park's entrance, you'll find three viewpoints to admire the Potomac River's crashing waterfalls in Mather Gorge. Most of the trails have an easy to moderate rating – great options for young hikers – and some can even accommodate strollers. If you and the kids want more of a challenge, try the beloved River Trail. The southbound route runs atop the edge of the gorge, promising great views of the river. There are a few sections of rock scrambles; the trail is about 1.5 miles one-way. Alternatively, take the North River Trail, which leads to Riverbend County Park. This trail runs north along the Potomac and is also 1.5 miles one-way. You'll find restrooms and seasonal water fountains at the visitor center; there are tables and grassy areas where travelers can enjoy a picnic lunch as well. Great Falls is located in McLean, about 15 miles north of Arlington and 25 miles northwest of Alexandria. Note: The parking lot often fills up by 10 a.m. on the weekends. When the lot is full, the park entrance closes and no street parking is allowed. Past hikers recommended getting there as early as possible to secure a spot and avoid crowds. You'll need to pay a fee to enter the park (about $20 per car). The park also accepts America the Beautiful passes.

Address: 9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA 22102

Learn more about Black history

Educator and presidential adviser Booker T. Washington, businesswoman and Black women's rights activist Maggie L. Walker and Olympic gymnast Gabrielle Douglas are just a few Black Americans who once called Virginia home. Throughout the state, you'll find historic sites, landmarks, museums and trails dedicated to preserving Black history. In Richmond, explore the area on foot down the Richmond Slave Trail. The self-guided walking tour leads visitors from Manchester Docks – a major hub during the trade of enslaved Africans – then winds its way through the city to visit former slave markets, the First African Baptist Church and burial sites. Northern Virginia's Spotsylvania County has a 75-mile driving tour highlighting its important Black history sites. Stops include Piney Branch School (a large one-room schoolhouse for Black children) and the John J. Wright Educational & Cultural Center, where visitors can learn about the history of a high school that taught Black children from 1909 through 1968. At Monticello in Charlottesville, listen to a talk about the history of slavery at the estate and explore an exhibit all about Sally Hemings' life. Hemings was an enslaved woman at Monticello who bore six of Jefferson's children and negotiated for their freedom. Visitors were particularly fond of the display about her life. To find out more sites to visit on your vacation, visit the Virginia tourism board's website .

Navy enthusiasts should plan to make Norfolk their primary destination for a Virginia vacation. At the Nauticus museum, travelers can learn about the city's maritime history through a series of exhibits that detail everything from the Chesapeake Bay's inhabitants to the history of the USS Wisconsin battleship. Afterward, pop next door to tour the Wisconsin itself (included in your admission fee to the Nauticus). Travelers – especially families – enjoyed both the museum and the ship for the engaging, informative displays. Hoping to take a dip? The city is home to three beach parks for swimming, kayaking and other recreational activities. Meanwhile, culture hounds should peruse the free Chrysler Museum of Art or embark on a self-guided walking tour of the city's street art. When it's time for a meal, you'll find plenty of seafood restaurants (Luce and A.W. Shucks Raw Bar & Grill are two favorites). If you want to explore the city's beer scene, consider buying the Brew Hop Pass. For a fee, you'll get access to special discounts and promotions at participating breweries.

[See more of Norfolk: Hotels .]

Chow down on the Salty Southern Route

While Virginia has a multiethnic culinary scene, it's best-known for two homegrown products: peanuts and ham. Specifically, southeastern Virginia has the largest concentration of these two foods in the state. In fact, Planters Peanuts' first large plant was built in Suffolk in 1913. As such, Suffolk is a popular stop on the route. Time a trip for October to attend the annual Suffolk Peanut Festival. The festival hosts a series of concerts, rides and fireworks displays, among other events. If you want to take some nuts home, stop by the Virginia Peanut Company's Franklin store to stock up on flavored peanuts, such as garlic, dill pickle and butter toffee. Plantation Peanuts of Wakefield (located in Wakefield) also has flavored peanuts, including Southern barbecue and lemon crab. For succulent ham, visit Taste of Smithfield (of Smithfield ham fame) to sample its ham, pork chops and other Southern cuisine. Naturally, diners enjoy the ham served here, but also compliment the airy dining room. The stops along the Salty Southern Route are primarily located on Routes 460 and 58; Smithfield is set off Route 258. A complete list of stops is on the route's website , and you can anticipate traveling about 110 miles if you plan to visit each city along the route. You won't find many hotels along 460, but you'll find several hotels in Suffolk. For a wider array of lodging options, head to Norfolk (which is about 20 miles east of Suffolk).

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

Courtesy of Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Affiliated with the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., the Udvar-Hazy Center features its own collection of air and space vehicles. Visitor favorites include the Discovery space shuttle, the Enola Gay and World War II crafts. In addition to the aircraft exhibits, visitors have the option to watch employees restore and fix artifacts in the Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar. The pieces being restored rotate; you can find out which items are currently in the hangar on the center's website . An IMAX theater, flight simulators and discovery stations with hands-on activities are also available on-site. The Udvar-Hazy Center is located in Chantilly, just south of Dulles International Airport. It's approximately 30 miles west of the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. Several restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos to Indian cuisine are located south of the museum. You'll find a number of hotels in Chantilly and around the airport. Among many suites hotels (think: Embassy Suites and Extended Stay America), you'll find a Westin , a Hyatt Regency and a Crowne Plaza.

Address: 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly, VA 20151

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts

Courtesy of Wolf Trap

As the sole national park devoted to the performing arts, the 117-acre Wolf Trap is a beloved entertainment venue. Past guests were often repeat visitors and complimented both the Filene Center's architecture and the talented artists who perform there. The Filene Center pavilion can accommodate up to 7,000 spectators. Shows include opera, concerts and dance. Performers have included Renée Fleming, Lindsey Stirling, Darius Rucker, the Maryland Youth Ballet and Collision of Rhythm. Before a performance, visit Tysons Corner for dinner. This posh area of northern Virginia – just southeast of Wolf Trap – has restaurants to suit any palate and budget. Following your evening, head back to Tysons to bed down at either the Ritz-Carlton or the Hyatt Regency . If you're visiting with little ones, consider attending the Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap. The program runs kid-focused shows at 10:30 a.m. multiple times a week during the summer. Families will enjoy both a show and activities as part of the program. Tickets to all shows at Wolf Trap have fees, which vary by performance. Though performances run from May through September only, visitors can access the park year-round for free. Two easy to moderate trails (1.5 and 2.5 miles long) run through the park. Park rangers also lead backstage tours of the Filene Center in the offseason (October to April).

Address: 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Virginia

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jul 13, 2022

History is everywhere in Virginia. Four of the first five presidents were born in the state, giving it a head start on the record of eight, the most of any state. Two of its top tourist attractions – Mount Vernon and Monticello – are homes of presidents. Virginia also claims the most Civil War battlefields of any state and the places where both the Revolution and the Civil War ended.

The colonial capital of Williamsburg, now restored to its 18th-century appearance, was among the hotbeds of the Revolution. But it's not just history that brings tourists here. Visiting the state's natural wonders, including Luray Caverns, Natural Bridge, the barrier islands of Chincoteague and Assateague, and Shenandoah National Park, are some of the top things to do.

The mountains are prime places to visit for hiking and other outdoor sports, and the long golden beaches are popular summer destinations. Plan your visit to this fascinating state with our list of the top attractions in Virginia.

1. Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive

2. colonial williamsburg, 3. virginia beach, 4. arlington national cemetery, 5. mount vernon, 6. monticello and charlottesville, 7. jamestown and yorktown, 9. virginia museum of fine arts, 10. luray caverns, 11. busch gardens, 12. the battleship wisconsin & nauticus, 13. steven f. udvar-hazy center, 14. richmond, 15. natural bridge of virginia, 16. chincoteague and assateague islands, 17. virginia aquarium & marine science center, 18. manassas national battlefield.

In the center of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park protects portions of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which range in height between 2,000 and 4,000 feet. Along their crest and running the length of the park is the Skyline Drive, the northern continuation of the Blue Ridge Parkway, with stopping points to enjoy the views and attractions, including President Hoover's summer residence and the old Cave Cemetery below Dark Hollow Falls.

The beautiful hiking trails are some of the park's main attractions. Flowering trees and shrubs are at their finest in spring and summer, but the park is best known for its autumn colors in October. Only a short drive west from the Skyline Drive on US 211 are Luray Caverns containing magnificent formations of stalactites and stalagmites.

The Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg

Few places can recreate a setting for the period of the American Revolution as well as Williamsburg, where the original 18th-century buildings are either still standing or have been faithfully reproduced on their original foundations. Here, you can stand where Patrick Henry gave his stirring speech, walk the same streets as Thomas Jefferson, and savor a meal where George Washington enjoyed seafood dinners.

Williamsburg was the capital of Virginia from 1705 and throughout the Revolution, and the final battle of the war was fought nearby, so it was a hotbed of the independence movement, along with being one of the most prosperous and politically active colonial capitals.

Costumed interpreters help show what life was like for the gentry, the farmers, and the slaves that lived and worked here, and frequent re-enactments add color and action that makes Williamsburg a fun place to visit for all ages. In addition, you can visit two outstanding museums of folk and decorative arts and dozens of authentically recreated colonial gardens.

Named for the wide expanse of golden sand that stretches from just east of Norfolk, Virginia Beach is a very popular and often crowded resort town with the expected hotels, amusements, and a long boardwalk . If the Atlantic Ocean is not warm enough for the children, take them to the 19-acre Ocean Breeze Water Park , with Caribbean-themed waterslides, a wave pool, and water playground.

The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Museum explores the climate, sea floor, and fauna of the coast, with an 800,000-gallon aquarium, hands-on exhibits, and a touch tank. Outdoors is an aviary, nature trail, marshlands to explore, and an adventure park.

More than 9,000 acres of coastline has been protected in the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge , where you'll find walking and hiking trails and picnic facilities at the visitor center. This is a favorite spot for birders, as more than 10,000 birds visit annually, including snow geese, falcons, ducks, and piping plovers.

The Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum displays historical and contemporary waterfowl decoys. To visit the 1791 Old Cape Henry Lighthouse , which opened up the Chesapeake Bay area to safe navigation, and the nearby New Lighthouse built in 1881, you will need to pass through security at the Fort Story Military Base.

Between Virginia Beach and Norfolk is the entrance to the 20-mile-long engineering marvel Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, which spans the entrance to Chesapeake Bay, connecting the mainland to Virginia's Eastern Shore.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Virginia Beach

Spread across 600 acres overlooking Washington, D.C., Arlington National Cemetery is where some of the most famous people in the United States are buried. The most visited are the grave of President John F. Kennedy and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Kennedy's grave is marked by a slate headstone covered with Cape Cod fieldstone and contains inscriptions of his 1960 inaugural address carved in marble, as well as an eternal flame.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is carved of white marble and watched over by an honor guard 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. It contains the remains of soldiers from both World Wars, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam War.

The third site tourists look for is the famous Iwo Jima Memorial , the Marine Corps War Memorial depicting the Joseph Rosenthal photo of five marines and one sailor raising the flag on Mount Suribachi. Other notable monuments include the Seabees Memorial , sculpted by former Seabee Felix de Weldon who also created the Iwo Jima Memorial, and the Women in Military Service for America Memorial , a tribute to all women in the US military.

Arlington House was built in the early 1800s by George Washington Parke Custis as a tribute to his step-grandfather, George Washington. However the house is most famous for being the residence of Robert E. Lee and his wife for 30 years until they abandoned it during the Civil War.

Lee was commander of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia during the American Civil War. The house has been restored and now serves as a memorial to him. Near the mansion is the tomb of Pierre L'Enfant , who designed the city of Washington, D.C. His original city plan is etched in stone, and his burial spot commands a beautiful view of the city he planned.

The mast of the Battleship Maine is incorporated into a memorial to the casualties of the ship that sunk in Havana Harbor in 1898, leading to the Spanish-American war.

George Washington's home from 1754 until his death 45 years later, Mount Vernon was a work in progress under Washington's close supervision, even while he was leading the Continental Army during the Revolution. The architectural design, construction, and even interior décor in each renovation and addition received his personal attention, resulting in the gracious 21-room plantation house you see today.

You may be surprised at the vivid paint and wallpaper colors throughout the house, but these shades were popular in the late 18th century - the bright green walls in the "New Room" were Washington's favorite. Unlike many historic homes, Mount Vernon is filled with personal reminders of George and Martha Washington: family portraits, crests, and the couple's belongings.

The grounds and gardens overlooking views of the Potomac River were a great pride of the first president, and again he took a personal part in their planning and care. He chose a less formal and more natural plan than his predecessors, reshaping the lawns and paths and planting native species of trees and shrubs.

The outbuildings have been preserved or reconstructed, and you'll often see the many skills used on the plantation demonstrated: blacksmithing, plowing, sheep shearing, weaving, even grinding grain at the water-powered gristmill.

Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mount Vernon, Virginia

Official site: www.mountvernon.org

One of the finest country houses in the United States and one of the most visited presidential homes, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello is a Palladian-style mansion he designed himself, inspired by a villa outside Vicenza, Italy. He continued altering and improving it over a period of forty years, from 1768 to 1809.

Throughout the house, you'll see several of Jefferson's inventions, which show another facet of the versatile man's talents. To the rear of the house are the extensive historic gardens, also designed by Jefferson, and below is the family cemetery with an obelisk marking Jefferson's grave.

An interesting outdoor exhibit, Landscape of Slavery: Mulberry Row at Monticello , sheds light on the lives of the people who worked and lived on the 5,000-acre plantation. The Monticello Visitors Center has more than 400 items on display, an introductory film, and hands-on activities for children.

Jefferson founded the University of Virginia in 1819 and also designed its red-brick buildings. Be sure to see the outstanding Rotunda; fans of Edgar Allan Poe can see his room in the West Building. The university's Art Museum has a permanent collection of American, European, and Asian art.

Not far from Monticello is Highland , the country house of President James Monroe, with beautiful period gardens. At Michie Tavern , built during Jefferson's time, you can dine in 18th-century surroundings.

Address: Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, Virginia

Official site: www.monticello.org

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Charlottesville

Colonial National Historic Park encompasses both Jamestown and Yorktown, where the Revolution ended. Jamestown is the oldest British settlement on North American soil, established in 1607 by Captain John Smith.

Only the foundations of the 1639 church tower, the churchyard, and the outlines of a few other buildings remain of the original settlement, but you'll find a re-creation of a Powhatan village based on contemporary drawings and archaeological finds, and replicas of the three ships that brought the settlers from England: Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery .

Jamestown Settlement was built in 1957 to commemorate the 350th anniversary of Jamestown's founding. A museum and exhibition galleries focus on England's colonization in the New World, the history and culture of the Powhatans, and Jamestown's first 100 years.

The statue of Pocahontas by William Ordway Partridge was erected in 1922 in memory of her role in smoothing relations between the Native Americans and the settlers. The statue of John Smith by William Couper was erected in 1909.

Triangular James Fort is a re-creation of the one constructed by the colonists, with thatch-roofed structures representing Jamestown's earliest buildings. Although none of the original buildings are still standing, the foundations are still in place, and you can see them on a half-mile walk through New Towne , part of Colonial National Historical Park.

It was at Yorktown Battlefield that the English Army under Lord Cornwallis surrendered to the combined American and French Armies, paving the way for American Independence. The events on the battlefield are well documented and easy to understand from the interpretive displays and dioramas. Park Ranges also guide frequent tours, and you can see the early 18th-century Moore House where Cornwallis surrendered.

Nelson House, which has a cannonball lodged in the wall near the upper window, is well-restored and an excellent example of Georgian architecture. Grace Episcopal Church has been standing since 1697 despite the ravages of war during the sieges of Yorktown in 1781 and 1862 and despite the fire of 1814. Communion silver dating from 1649 is still in use.

Address: Colonial National Historical Park, Yorktown, Virginia

Walking through the landscaped and manicured gardens of Maymont, It is hard to imagine this 100 acres as the pastures and fields of the dairy farm it was before James and Sallie Dooley acquired it in 1886.

The opulent mansion was completed in 1893 and for the next 30 years, Mrs. Dooley worked with a team of top landscape designers and horticulturalists to surround it with gardens and an arboretum, turning into a showpiece worthy of any Gilded Age millionaire.

Hundreds of rose bushes, beds of annuals, and perennial borders bloom throughout the seasons, and exotic trees from around the world shade garden paths. Highlights are the Japanese Garden and the spectacular terraced Italian Garden, with its fountains, cascade, pergola, and stonework of Petersburg granite. The mansion is a blend of Romanesque Revival and Queen Anne styles, its restored interior complete with original furnishings and collections from the Dooleys' travels.

Address: 1700 Hampton Street, Richmond, Virginia

Official site: https://maymont.org/

The more than 22,000 works in the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts are largely focused on modern and contemporary art, especially European art after 1900, American art after 1950, and 21st-century art worldwide. Within that, several special collections stand out.

The Ludwig and Rosy Fischer Collection of German Expressionist Art includes works in all mediums - paintings, woodcuts, etchings, and lithographs - with a particular focus on the Die Brücke artists. The growing collections of works reflecting African American experience and expression includes works by African, African American, and African Diaspora artists.

A suite of five galleries display the largest public collection of Fabergé and Russian decorative arts held by an American museum, including silver, enamels, and an exceptional group of five Fabergé easter eggs made for the last two Russian czars.

Other noteworthy collections feature Art Nouveau and Art Deco works; French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art; and significant holdings of African, Asian, ancient, pre-Columbian, and Native American art.

Address: 200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, Virginia

Official site: https://www.vmfa.museum

Luray Caverns contain breathtaking examples of calcite formations within an extensive underground system that sometimes feels more like an alien landscape than a terrestrial natural landmark. Visitors can walk through the caves and admire these limestone crystals, which have, over the centuries, formed an impressive landscape.

Among the highlights are Titania's Veil; the giant Double Column; interior lakes, which magnify the scene; and a one-of-a-kind musical instrument called the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which creates music using the stalactites themselves.

In addition to the caves, visitors can also enjoy other attractions as part of the admission. The Luray Valley Museum explores the history of the Shenandoah Valley throughout a seven-acre 19th-century village, which is filled with both authentic and reproduction buildings and artifacts. The Car & Carriage Caravan Museum features historic vehicles, including an 1897 Mercedes Benz, and Toy Town Junction is home to an antique train set and toy collection form the 1940s.

Address: Luray Caverns, 101 Cave Hill Road, Luray, Virginia

Official site: https://luraycaverns.com

Taking Europe as its theme, this lively adventure park evokes southern Germany in its entertainment area with dirndl-costumed dancers and a traditional Bavarian band, while rides and roller coasters themed to the Loch Ness Monster, the Alps, and the ruins of Pompeii provide thrills for the whole family.

For quieter moments, you can watch Border Collies herd sheep as they do in Scotland or share time with exotic birds in an interactive aviary. Special sections are designed for younger children, with rides appropriate to their thrill level.

Address: One Busch Gardens Boulevard, Williamsburg, Virginia

Official site: https://buschgardens.com/

USS Wisconsin Battleship in Norfolk, Virginia

One of the largest ever built by the U.S. Navy, the Battleship Wisconsin is also one of the last launched in December of 1943 at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. World War II was at its height, and the Wisconsin was immediately deployed to the Pacific, into the midst of some of the heaviest sea combat of the war, earning five battle stars.

Mothballed after the war, the Wisconsin was recommissioned for the Korean War, and in 1951 became the flagship of the Seventh Fleet in the Pacific. On a self-guided tour, you can visit the deck, or explore further on a tour guided by former Navy personnel.

The Wisconsin is berthed at Nauticus, a maritime discovery center with interactive exhibits and programs that also includes the Schooner Virginia , a sailing center, and museum. In December, Winterfest sees the Wisconsin covered in colored lights.

Address: 1 Waterside Drive, Norfolk, Virginia

Official site: https://nauticus.org

Space Shuttle Discovery at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is an extension of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., and is home to thousands of artifacts and aircraft which inspire awe in visitors. Perhaps the most impressive of these is the Space Shuttle Discovery, the centerpiece of the space science exhibits.

Within two immense hangars, the center houses a wide variety of aircraft which represent every aspect of aviation, from the earliest years of flight through modern commercial craft, including a Concorde on display.

Other aircraft include examples of both U.S. and foreign military vehicles from the WWII era as well as military craft and technology from the Korean and Vietnam wars, the cold war, and modern military craft. The museum is also a working restoration center, and visitors can watch staff from a mezzanine as they repair and preserve more artifacts and craft.

The center is also full of interactive exhibits and demonstrations, including the unique Discovery Stations which as mobile exhibits manned by staff who are ready to answer questions and engage younger visitors. The center's IMAX theater presents a range of films about aviation and space exploration, history, and nature.

Aspiring aviators and amateurs will want to take flight in an interactive flight simulator, and those hoping for an adventure will want to hop aboard the motion capsule ride simulator which offers a range of themed immersive experiences.

Address: 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly, Virginia

Official site: https://airandspace.si.edu/udvar-hazy-center

Among the skyscrapers of Virginia's modern capital city are some reminders of Richmond's great past as a center of the American independence movement and capital of the Confederacy from 1861 to 1865. The imposing State Capitol was built in 1785-1788, designed by Thomas Jefferson, and to its south is the start of Canal Walk , which runs along the James River-Kanawha Canal, built at the suggestion of George Washington.

The Church Hill Historic Area preserves about 70 antebellum houses that give some impression of what Richmond was like before the Civil War. The district is named after St. John's Episcopal Church in which Patrick Henry made his famous "Give me liberty or give me death" speech. The 1737 Old Stone House is the oldest building in Richmond, now housing the Edgar Allan Poe Museum (Poe lived in Richmond for several years).

Richmond National Battlefield Park illustrates more than five years of campaigns to capture this key city during the Civil War. That era is also illustrated at the White House of the Confederacy , restored to its wartime appearance and displaying hundreds of Civil War artifacts.

Several of the historic homes are of particular interest: John Marshall House is one of the few remaining Federal homes built in this area and is filled with the distinguished Supreme Court Justice's family relics and furniture.

The Wilton House Museum is a beautifully restored plantation home built in the mid-18th century, and Maymont is an elaborate mansion restored to show the grandeur of life here in the late 1800s. Its extensive gardens include an arboretum and 100-acre park with a carriage collection.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Richmond, VA

Towering more than 215 feet high with a span of 90 feet, the Natural Bridge is one of America's oldest tourist attractions and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. During the 18th and 19th centuries, it was one of the two most popular sights for European visitors, ranking with Niagara Falls.

It was formed by the collapse of a cavern through which the Cedar Creek flowed. The legend that George Washington surveyed the bridge for Lord Fairfax gained credence when a rock with his initials and survey mark was discovered in 1927. Thomas Jefferson owned the land for some time, building a log cabin here as a retreat.

In 2014, Natural Bridge became a state park. Stroll along Cedar Creek Trail from Cascade Falls, under the bridge, and to Lace Falls, visiting an exhibit on the Monacans, the local Native American tribe, and a saltpeter mine used during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. US Route 11 runs over the top of the bridge.

Nearby are Natural Bridge Caverns , where you can go 34 stories underground to see the Colossal Dome room, Mirror Lake, and the stalactites and stalagmites. Natural Bridge Zoo is known for its work in breeding rare and endangered species and for the chance for visitors to interact with some of the animals.

Address: 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, Virginia

Assateague is a 38-mile-long barrier island to the east of Chincoteague Island, which it protects from the Atlantic Ocean. The entire island of Assateague, which is partly in Maryland and partly in Virginia, is protected as a wildlife sanctuary.

The southern end of Chincoteague is protected by a National Wildlife Refuge with 14,000 acres of shoreline, fresh and saltwater marshes, wetlands, and forest habitat for more than 320 species of shorebirds and waterfowl.

But the two islands' most famous residents are the wild ponies . Partly because of these ponies and partly because Assateague Island is lined by one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire Atlantic Coast , these islands get about one-and-a-half million visitors each year.

Along with watching the wild ponies, you can swim, walk nature trails, take wildlife tours by boat or bus, watch birds, visit the famous lighthouse, kayak, go fishing, and collect seashells (up to a gallon each day).

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Norfolk, Virginia

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center provides a wide range of exhibits and activities for the entire family and is one of the most popular family attractions in Virginia Beach.

Aquarium residents include several varieties of turtle, including Loggerhead Sea Turtles and Green Sea Turtles, water-dwelling reptiles like Komodo dragons and tomistoma, predators including sandbar sharks, and entertaining mammals including harbor seals and otters. The center also has a variety of educational exhibits and activities for all ages, as well as a six-story theater, which has regular showings of 3-D nature films.

For those who want a more interactive experience with nature, there are outdoor recreation options as well, including a six-acre zipline adventure park for ages five and up. All ages can enjoy one of the center's various boat excursions, which spot wildlife including bottlenose dolphins, a variety of whales, and many types of sea birds.

Address: 717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, Virginia

Two key battles in the Civil War were fought near Manassas, Virginia in 1861 and 1862. The site has been preserved as Manassas National Battlefield and is described exceptionally well, so visitors can understand and even picture those battles.

The first battle, also known as the Battle of Bull Run, was the first time the two armies clashed, and the second engagement on the plains of Manassas ended in a solid victory for the Confederates and marked the height of their strength in a war that would drag on for three more years.

Today, the park is not only a historic site but an important haven for more than 160 species of resident and migratory birds.

Address: 12521 Lee Highway, Manassas, Virginia

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Apr 4, 2024 • 14 min read

Shenandoah Valley is a real stunner – and a perfect place to unwind © WHL / Getty Images

As far as states go, Virginia was at the front of the line when they were handing out amazing attractions. From the Chesapeake shores to the Blue Ridge peaks, this gorgeous land harbors major historic sites, up-and-coming cities, romantic valleys, pre-Revolutionary villages and wine-tasting drives .

You can slurp fresh oysters, learn about US history’s most famous figures, hike to full-circle views, search for wild horses or simply lie out on a stunning beach. How do you tackle a state like Virginia , with its abundance of remarkable sights? Don’t worry: we’ve done the hard work and whittled down the choices to these 14.

1. Shenandoah Valley

Best for lazy weekends

An Indigenous legend describes the Shenandoah Valley as a place where “the morning stars placed the brightest jewels from their crowns in the river," and it's truly a sight to behold. The plush, 200-mile-long valley is cradled between the rumpled peaks of the Blue Ridge to one side and the Alleghenies on the other, with the dazzling Shenandoah River meandering its length – a slow-moving ode to a stunning escape.

The best way to experience this mystical realm is simply to roam. I-81 cuts straight through, and it's pretty scenic for an interstate. But take the slower roads – Virginia Rte 11 is a good choice – and poke into little towns along the way: Luray, with its famous caverns ; New Market, site of a Civil War battle fought by Virginia Military Institute cadets; Staunton, full of splendid architecture; and Lexington, home to two universities and plenty of charming shops and galleries, are all good choices.

Check out several museums, including the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, the Virginia Quilt Museum in Harrisonburg and the wacky American Celebration on Parade in Shenandoah Caverns , where parade floats go to die. You’ll find ample wines to sip along the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail, and beers along the Beerwerks Trail.

En route, sample Virginia's abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, camping, fishing, horseback riding or simply gliding down the legendary river by kayak or canoe.

2. Shenandoah National Park

Best for 360-degree views

Straddling the Blue Ridge between Front Royal at I-66 and Rockfish Gap near I-64, Shenandoah National Park harbors dark forests, fluttery mountain laurel and splashy waterfalls. You can drive its length along the 105-mile Skyline Drive, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints over the river-laced Shenandoah Valley to one side and the rolling green Piedmont hills on the other.

It’s especially gorgeous in autumn – and given the amount of bumper-to-bumper traffic you’ll encounter, you’ll have all the time in the world to study the foliage. Spring is gorgeous too, with budding dogwood and redbud trees, plus white-tailed deer, black bears and bobcats roaming its flanks.

But the best way to experience this national park is on foot. It has 500 miles of hiking trails, including a 104-mile section of the famed Appalachian Trail. Favorites include White Oak Canyon at mile 42.6, a 4.6-mile wander past five waterfalls; Dark Hollow Falls at mile 50.7, a 1.4-mile trek ending at a beautiful waterfall; and the 4-mile hike to Rapidan Camp at mile 52.4, with Hoover’s restored summer White House as the focal point.

The park truly hits its stride with its trails climbing to 360-degree views, and a 2.1-mile round-trip trek up Hawksbill Mountain at mile 46.7 is perhaps the best of the bunch. The 1.5-mile hike up Stony Man from mile 41.7 is another good one. You can camp backcountry or at several campgrounds, or stay overnight at one of the park lodges.

Check off these incredibly scenic hikes in Virginia

A woman stands on a rocky outcropping overlooking fall foliage in Shenandoah National Park

3. Richmond

Best for vibrant neighborhoods

Richmond has been around a long time. Incorporated in 1742, it became Virginia’s capital in 1780 – and the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. Thomas Jefferson designed the Capitol building, and Patrick Henry rattled off his “Give me liberty or give me death” speech at St John’s Church. You can’t throw a history book here without hitting a monument or museum (not that that’s a bad thing).

But today this southern city is making waves not for its past but as an up-and-comer hub, with neighborhoods bursting with gastropubs, homegrown breweries and local boutiques, and outdoor adventures on the James River to boot. Henrico has 600 local restaurants and scores of shops, hotels and historic sites, while a plethora of breweries (Veil Brewing Co., Vasen Brewing, Ardent Craft Ales, etc.) await in Scott’s Addition.

The historic African-American neighborhood of Jackson Ward, home to dancing legend Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, has art galleries, the Black History Museum & Cultural Center and tons of local shops and restaurants. And there’s more – put on your walking shoes and wander this awakening city.

4. The Colonial Triangle

Best for history buffs

Few places offer such a wide array of places important to US history as the Colonial Triangle, where three major sites – Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown – reveal stories of the nation’s earliest days of European colonization. The historic trio are connected by the Colonial Parkway, a tree-shaded roadway ideal for biking and scenic driving.

The desperate English struggled to survive at Jamestown, where they landed in 1607 and eked out a living. Here you can visit Historic Jamestowne , where the ruins of the original site are under archaeological excavation, and the adjacent Jamestown Settlement , a living-history museum with the reconstructed 1607 James Fort, a Native American Village and reproductions of the ships that brought colonists to these shores.

Nearby you’ll find the award-winning, 300-acre Colonial Williamsburg , a living-history museum that takes you back to the days when Williamsburg reigned as the Colonial Virginia’s capital. Historical shops, restaurants, and government buildings line reconstructed streets, where costumed interpreters break into role-playing—ask a Black soldier how he self-liberated, or the woman with the cream-white silk hat the best recipe for gingerbread.

And if that’s not enough history, nearby you also have Yorktown , where the Revolutionary War ended. The immersive American Revolution Museum at Yorktown has artifact-filled galleries and a recreated Continental Army encampment out back. And, of course, you’ll learn all about October 20, 1781, the day British and German soldiers surrendered.

5. Chincoteague

Best for horse lovers

The eponymous main town on this Eastern Shore island, Chincoteague (pronounced "shin-co-teeg") has salty, summery charm, with seafood restaurants, ice cream shops, B&Bs and beaches. But the major reason people flock here is to see the wild horses, which live on nearby Assateague Island .

No one knows exactly where they came from – some say they escaped a sinking Spanish galleon in the 17th century, others claim they descend from horses that 17th-century colonists released on the island to avoid taxation. Whatever the case, every July for the past 90-plus years, “saltwater cowboys” have gathered to round up the foals for the swim across the channel from Assateague to Chincoteague. It's an event made famous by Marguerite Henry in her 1947 children’s book, Misty of Chincoteague , and always fun to watch.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge occupies the southern portion of Assateague, and you can see the wild horses there firsthand. A 3.2-mile wildlife loop is primo for biking and walking (it’s closed to cars until 3pm), and spotting migratory birds, such as snow geese and threatened piping plover, along the way. Beaches abound as well.

Two girls walk into the water with surfboards at Virigina beach

6. Virginia Beach

Best for fun in the sun

Everyone loves a good beach, and you can’t ask for much better than sunny Virginia Beach and its not one but two coasts: the Atlantic and the Chesapeake. Expect golden sands, lapping blue waters and plenty of room to sunbathe, play volleyball and splash in the waves. Among its best beaches are secluded Sandbridge, family-friendly Chesapeake Bay and Croatan, popular among surfers.

When you’re tired of the sand, the 3-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk awaits, edged with casual restaurants, four oceanfront stages and vendors offering bike and surrey rentals. A separate path is great for strolling, rollerblading and biking. A year-round slate of events adds more fun in the sun, including the East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic in April, the East Coast Surfing Championship in August and the Holiday Parade at the Beach in December.

Enjoy the golden sands at these top beaches in Virginia

7. Arlington National Cemetery

Best for paying your respects

More than 400,000 stark-white tombstones stripe Arlington’s green hillsides, the burial place of veterans from the Revolutionary War to present-day conflicts. Originally the land belonged to Robert E Lee, but it became a Union cemetery after he fled to fight for the South in 1864, never to return. Today more than three million tourists pass through Arlington National Cemetery every year.

A tour begins at the visitor center, where you can pick up a map and catch a tram to visit the cemetery’s sites. (Or you can walk – be forewarned, it’s hilly!) Just up the hill is the gravesite of John F Kennedy Jr, where the 35th president lies beside his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy, and his two brothers Robert and Edward; an eternal flame flickers 24/7. Nearby, stolid soldiers stand guard by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with the changing of the guard taking place around the clock in an elaborate ceremony.

All presidents are eligible to be buried here, though there are only two: JFK and William Taft. Other prominent Americans include Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, heavyweight champ Joe Louis and astronaut and senator John Glenn. In Section 27, almost 4000 formerly enslaved individuals are buried on land that was once known as Freedman’s Village, Arlington’s first free neighborhood.

On the hill above looms Lee’s former home, Arlington House . It’s been reinterpreted to tell the fuller story of the Lees and the enslaved people who built the residence and worked here.

8. Blue Ridge Parkway

Best for scenic drives

Smoky mist billows over the timeworn peaks of the Blue Ridge, an ancient range meandering from Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The sinewy, two-lane Blue Ridge Parkway ambles 469 miles along its length – nearly 200 miles of which are in Virginia. You have no choice but to slow down; the speed limit is 45mph, all the better for taking it all in.

Highlights include Peaks of Otter at milepost 85.6, where three shadowy peaks overlook Abbott Lake and its lodge, restaurant and historic farm; Roanoke Star atop Mill Mountain, a fun hike just off milepost 120; and historic Mabry Mill at milepost 176, a photographer’s delight. Along the way, you’ll discover a bygone world of trail-laced forests, forgotten farms and stupendous vistas.

Get behind the wheel on these scenic US road trips

9. Manassas National Battlefield

Best for Civil War history

If you’re searching for Civil War action, look no further than Virginia. As the capital of the Confederacy, located near the capital of the Union, Virginia tussled its way through more than 2000 “military events” – more than any other state in the country.

Some of the biggest battlefields are here, a top gun being Manassas National Battlefield Park (aka Bull Run), where two major battles unfolded in 1861 and again in 1862 – both Confederate wins. But it's perhaps best known for the Washingtonians who jumped in their carriages on the eve of Manassas I and brought picnics to watch the skirmish – they expected a slam-dunk victory, but ended up witnessing the first major engagement in the long four-year struggle.

Today the battlefield is an undulating green landscape, with hiking trails, historic sites and tours. Begin at the Henry Hill Visitor Center, where you can watch an orientation film and gather info. Take a self-guided walking or driving tour from here; guided tours are also available. Don’t miss the still-standing Stone House, which served as an aid station.

10. The villages of Northern Neck

Best for foodies

Virginia oysters are fast becoming a national obsession, and you can slurp them down at their point of origin all along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline – there are eight dedicated routes extolling the beloved mollusks. That said, the best place to experience oysters is the Northern Neck, a peninsula east of Fredericksburg, where latter-day oystering villages – including Irvington and Kilmarnock – are sprinkled across the genteel stream-crossed landscape. While oysters still support the economy, these villages also buzz with art galleries, trendy restaurants and freshly painted inns.

Go to the source at Rappahannock Oyster Company , a mom-and-pop shop in Topping that ships its oysters nationwide. You can visit the oyster nursery, where babies (known as “spat”) grow in buckets, and dine plein air at Merroir restaurant, serving up the sweetest varieties of the local specialty. Or try them at Hope and Glory Inn ’s oyster bar in Irvington, which specializes in wine-and-oyster pairings.

And oyster aren't just food around here: you'll find custom-designed jewelry in Kilmarnock made with oyster shells, historic workboats at the Reedville Fishermen’s Museum including the skipjack Claud W Somers, once used for oyster dreading in the bay and now offering sails June through October. And here’s a really interesting one – in Weems, you can even see the shells mixed with the plaster covering the entire vaulted interior of Historic Christ Church , dating from 1735.

The clincher is the Wine and Oyster Festival, which takes place in Stratford Hall, typically in the fall, and features a score of local oyster growers (and chances to sample).

A woman walking down the street in Old Town Alexandria, with spring trees in bloom

11. Old Town Alexandria

Best for pre-Revolutionary War vibes

Virginia does pre-Revolutionary towns exceedingly well, and Old Town Alexandria , founded in 1749, is hard to beat. Centuries ago, George Washington wandered these streets, discussing revolutionary thoughts with Thomas Jefferson and John Adams at Gadsby’s Tavern (now a restaurant and museum) and attending services at the still-active Christ Church.

More than 200 buildings from the town's earliest days edge its tree-shaded streets, with historic houses providing glimpses of bygone days. French and Indian War strategies were hashed out at Carlyle House ; the Freedom House Museum relates stories of enslaved individuals who passed through the nation’s second-largest slave-trading city; and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum has a whimsical potions-mixing attic.

But this is also a city that’s alive with a modern-day vibe, showcasing trendy restaurants and boutiques up and down humming King Street. At the foot of King, the Potomac waterfront offers buskers, waterside restaurants, pathways and parks, plus the Torpedo Factory Art Center , an actual former torpedo factory now housing 82 artist studios. It’s the kind of place to sit and stay awhile.

12. Middleburg

Best for a posh getaway

A genteel country town centered on horses and wine , Middleburg is a weekender’s delight. Established in 1787, its one main street has historic buildings shoulder-to-shoulder, holding restaurants, cafes, boutiques, antique shops, galleries and the esteemed Red Fox Inn and Tavern . The rest of town comprises a few side streets that are fun to investigate as well.

Many famous figures have found their way here, including Jackie O, who rode horses and lived on the outskirts of town; a plaque honors her at the garden next to the Pink Box (the village info center and museum). The Middleburg Spring Races draw thousands, as does Christmas in Middleburg, with a parade and the Middleburg Hunt & Hounds Review.

Two noted wineries await nearby: Chrysalis Vineyards , growing the world’s largest planting of the indigenous Norton grape, and Greenhill Winery , producing robust reds. Both have wine-tasting in farm winery settings. If wine’s not your thing, pop into Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery and Lost Barrel Brewing instead.

13. Tangier Island

Best for getting away from it all

The only way to visit Tangier Island , in the middle of the Chesapeake, is by seasonal ferry from Reedville or Orancock (or Crisfield, Maryland). You’ll arrive at a lost-in-time isle, where prim New England–style cottages with white-picket fences dot the flat, marshy landscape, and the one pedestrian road is traveled by foot, bike or golf cart.

For centuries, locals have eked out a living oystering and crabbing, and you’ll discover fishers' shanties on the water, as well as crab traps, one grocery store and two restaurants. No movie theaters, fast-food joints – or, well, anything modern, including mobile phone service.

If you listen carefully, you’ll pick up the slight Elizabethan brogue in the locals’ speech, a legacy of long-ago English settlement; most folks here trace their heritage back to the island’s founding families of the 17th and 18th centuries.

You can spend the day, or overnight at one of the few B&Bs. Whatever the case, have lunch at Hilda Crockett’s Chesapeake House , where island fare like clam fritters, crab cakes, hot corn pudding and pickled beets is served community style. Note: the entire island is dry, so you'll have to BYOB.

Keep planning your trip to Virginia: Add these experiences to your trip's itinerary Discover the state's most majestic scenery at these national parks Plan the ultimate road trip on these scenic routes

This article was first published April 2022 and updated April 2024

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50 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Virginia

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: March 17, 2020 - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Virginia, the Old Dominion, is known for being the state where presidents were born.

If you’re planning to visit the Mother of Presidents as well as one of the most beautiful places in the US , then you’ll likely want to know what the top vacation spots are.

It can be overwhelming without a travel guide to figure out what to see and what to do, so to help you out, here are 50 fun things to do and places to visit in Virginia.

Table of Contents

1. Virginia Beach

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Is it really a visit to Virginia if you don’t go to Virginia Beach ?

Three different beaches stretch across the span of 14 miles, providing sand, surf, and boardwalk galore.

You can rest in quieter areas or be right in the heat of the crowd.

Even if you’re not much of a fan of sand, the boardwalk offers plenty of space for fun through cycling, skating, and just walking to explore, with lots of shops, statues, and dining establishments to try out.

Of course, though we refer mainly to the beach area, Virginia Beach is about more than just that.

It’s a coastal resort city, after all, with plenty of exciting features, including boat tours, water sports, amusement rides, golfing areas, and nightlife.

So, while heading to the beach itself is among the best things to do in Virginia, don’t forget to check out the rest of the city while you’re here!

Address: Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

2. The Natural Bridge of Virginia

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The Natural Bridge of Virginia is a huge limestone arch, carved out over the span of multiple millennia by the flowing of the Cedar Creek.

A true wonder to behold, it’s one of the most stunning tourist attractions in the state, and its natural status adds even more to its value as a wonder of the world, and it’s North America’s largest natural bridge on land at 215 feet in length.

In 1750, George Washington came to the site and surveyed it as a young man and carved his initials into it.

Later, in 1774, Thomas Jefferson would purchase a large amount of land that included the Natural Bridge from King George III.

But before American colonists got their hands on it, the bridge was considered sacred by the Monocans, a tribe living in the area.

Now, though, and since 2016, the Natural Bridge is its own State Park.

On certain evenings, the Natural Bridge of Virginia has a light show put on known as The Drama of Creation.

It first began in 1920 and is America’s longest-running light show.

It’s Biblical in theme and can be a little odd, but if you’re seeking what to see, it’s something to add to your list!

Address: 6477 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578, United States

3. Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center

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The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center is one of the best ways to travel across the world without even leaving the state!

Over 700 different species of animals live in this vast establishment, with a total of more than 12,000 individual animals of all kinds living across various habitats and 800,000 gallons’ worth of exhibits!

One of the popular exhibits here is the Bay and Ocean Pavilion, which showcases bodies of water of the state and their journeys through it.

Other popular offerings are the Chesapeake Bay Aquarium (which has lots of animals local to that area), the Chesapeake Light Tower Aquarium, the Marsh Pavilion, the Red Sea, the Flores Island (of Indonesia), the Restless Planet, the Peat Swamp (of Malaysia), and more.

Visiting this spot is among the most fun things to do in Virginia, especially if you’re here with family.

An aviary of half an acre sits in the middle of the venue, an outdoor nature trail offers insight into even more animals, there are feedings of the very rare sea turtle to watch, and a small fee will let you swim with seals!

Address: 717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

4. Luray Caverns

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The Luray Caverns are among the most beautiful places in Virginia.

They were first stumbled upon by four men from Luray in 1878 and are now the biggest cave system of commercial variety in all of America.

The Luray Caverns are a National Natural Landmark, situated 164 feet underground with a huge size and gorgeous features that make it one of the best spots to stop by during your visit to the state.

The Luray Caverns are packed with natural wonders, including flowstones, draperies, stalagmites, stalactites, and mirror pools, and the entire system has a 54-degree Fahrenheit temperature all throughout the year.

But when it comes to what to do in the Luray Caverns, there’s something clear that you shouldn’t miss: the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the biggest musical instrument in the world, a lithophone that is all-natural and made from stone.

It is played by being struck and produces a sound not unlike a xylophone.

If you opt to take a tour through the extensive cave system, you’ll probably be walking for between 45 and 60 minutes over the course of the 1.5-mile journey.

One of the stops along the way is the Great Cavern, which is so huge that it has hosted weddings.

No wonder it’s among the best places to visit in Virginia!

Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835, United States

5. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

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The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts , or VFMA, is among the best places to visit in Virginia due to its commonly acknowledged caliber, making it one of the state’s greatest museums.

Before it even opened its doors, since the early 1900s, the state had received multiple art-related gifts, including ones from famous donors like Judge John Barton Payne.

These works would become viewable by the public when the VFMA opened in 1936.

Already quite a large building to begin with, and loved for its housing of famous works by great artists such as Picasso and a wide range of works from all around the world, the museum became even larger in 2010.

An expansion project burst the VFMA forward to 545,000 square feet.

Among the various galleries, you can view collections in varying genres, including American art as well as Art Nouveau and Art Deco from Lewis.

You can also head to the Sculpture Garden of Lora Robins, or perhaps visit the Library of Margaret R. and Robert M. Freeman.

If you need a break, you can eat at one of the VFMA’s two dining establishments or sit in a relaxing area outside.

Address: 200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220, United States

6. Arlington National Cemetery

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It’s odd to consider a home of the dead as one of the most popular Virginia attractions, but the Arlington National Cemetery fits the bill perfectly.

It was first built on Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s wife’s estate – that is, the estate of Mary Anna Curtis Lee, the great-granddaughter of Martha Washington.

Arlington National Cemetery covers 624 acres of ground and has been the final resting place of many who lost their lives in national (and international) conflicts since the year 1864.

It’s a military cemetery where veterans, military staff, war heroes, and more have been laid to rest since the Civil War. Among them are George C. Marshall, President John F. Kennedy, and Admiral Grace Hopper.

There are a number of interesting spots to visit in the Virginia cemetery.

One of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers, which is the final resting place for soldiers whose identities are unknown that lost their lives during the Korean, Vietnam, and world wars.

It is guarded non-stop, 24/7.

Other places to stop by in this cemetery are:

The graves of Robert E. Lee’s Garden, which were laid there to prevent Lee from reclaiming that part of the land.
The Headstone-Eating Trees that are slowly but surely wrapping up and devouring certain headstones with their roots.
The James Parks Grave, belonging to the slave who dug the first graves on the property.

Address: Entrance at Arlington Memorial Bridge, Arlington, VA 22211, United States

7. Frontier Culture Museum

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If you’re looking for a cool spot to head to in Virginia that is both interesting and historically rich, the Frontier Culture Museum is a good option for where to go.

It is essentially an outdoor adventure that allows visitors to explore the early life of various continents and regions as they walk around.

Exhibits give you a glimpse into the culture of American frontier through the contributions of the indigenous peoples, as well as African and European contributions, including those from Germany and England.

Essentially, the museum is a living one that tells a tale, weaving a story of those who arrived in America, their lives, and what happened next.

Staff, decked out in period attire, add to the scene.

Address: 1290 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401, United States

8. Blue Ridge Parkway

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The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most famous Virginia attractions, especially for sightseeing.

It is America’s longest linear park and spans 469 miles of road, meant to join the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

As part of the Appalachian Mountain chain, the Blue Ridge Parkway boasts Appalachian beauty worth seeing while you’re in Virginia.

With forested lands covered in relaxing trees, the route is filled with gorgeous panoramas and flora.

There’s something for everyone here, no matter what your idea of fun is.

If you go through the trail at Humpback Ridge, you’ll come across genuine, old farm buildings of the Appalachian age.

If you want to hike, trails leading up the Roanoke and Onion mountains are a sight for sore eyes.

If you’d rather get breathtaking views, you can climb Raven’s Roost.

If you’re into recreation, head to Sherando Lake to camp, swim, picnic, and relax.

9. Yorktown

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Yorktown is one of three historical cities that make up the historical triangle of Virginia, making it one of the top 10 places you should visit while in the city, even if it’s just for the sights.

There are plenty of fun things to do here, whether you’re cycling through the TransAmerica Trail, walking and dining on the Riverwalk, visiting museums, checking out old houses like the Moore House and Nelson House, or learning more of the state’s history.

Much of the town’s architecture dates back to the 18th century, and it is here that an English army led by Lord Cornwallis surrendered to French and American troops, bringing the country a step closer to dreams of independence.

10. Historic Jamestowne

Yorktown was one of three cities in the historic triangle of Virginia.

Historic Jamestowne is another one.

The Jamestown Settlement was built 350 years after Jamestown itself was founded, meaning it opened in 1957.

It now is host to a large array of galleries and museums that showcase the history of the English colonization over the New World in some of the best ways.

Particularly famous places and spots of interest in Historic Jamestowne are the statue of Pocahontas, built in 1922 by William O Partridge, a triangular fort’s reconstruction that looks like it did when it was built by colonists, and sites that showcase cultural heritage.

More than 4,000 artifacts live in an archaearium museum, most of which were unearthed from James Fort over the course of 2 decades, some of which had been in the ground, buried, for more than 4 centuries.

You’ll feel like you’re back in the 17th century!

Address: 1368 Colonial Pkwy, Jamestown, VA 23081, United States

11. South Boundary Stone

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Did you know that the first federal monument in all of America is in Virginia?

It’s called the South Boundary Stone and was laid by Benjamin Banneker in 1791 as part of a project to survey and plan for the creation of Washington, DC .

This particular stone was meant to outline the District of Columbia, which had been newly created at the time.

The South Boundary Stone now sits at a sea wall that separates the Potomac River and Jones Point Park.

It doesn’t take much to find it – the trail from Jones Point Lighthouses is marked out and leads towards it, where it rests between the Potomac River fence and the steps of the lighthouse, protected under a covering of glass and bronze.

It’s a cool part of history that’s well worth the visit on its own, but there are other boundary stones to be found in the area, including a USGS marker.

40 boundary stones were used in Washington, DC’s plotting, and while most have been lost to time, those that remain are fascinating to see.

So why not head down this weekend?

Address: Jones Point Park, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

12. Busch Gardens

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Busch Gardens is among the most famous places in Virginia, with an interesting southern Germany theme.

The European style can make you feel like you’re somewhere far away and not in the United States at all!

The spot is essentially a theme park, suited for all ages, ranging from activities for kids to roller coasters with 74-foot drops and multiple hills for adults.

Rides are themed on European cliches and famous locations, such as the Loch Ness Monster and the Alps.

Live entertainment, Bavarian bands, and dancers dressed in dirndl all make up the best features of Busch Gardens.

At the end of summer, Bier Fest is held here, where there are more than 200 kinds of craft beer to try.

In Halloween, events are held for kids and the gardens become decked out in spooky decor.

Address: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States

Planning to visit Williamsburg? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Williamsburg, VA !

13. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello

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Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is located in Charlottesville and offers a unique glimpse into the life of the US’ 3rd President, his Palladian-style grand mansion home that he himself designed, and his large, stunning plantation.

The Monticello is one of the most visited homes in America, not just in Virginia, and it’s for good reason.

Inspired by a villa in Italy, the home is full of eye-catching architecture, inventions made by Jefferson himself, a discovery room, a media center that plays interactive videos, exhibitions, and of course, the historic and much-loved gardens, also designed by the late former President himself.

At the visitor’s center, you can learn more information about Monticello and its current exhibits.

You can take a tour to learn even more, including about aspects of the grounds, the gardens, or the slavery that took place here.

Stop by the museum shop to buy souvenirs, if you like!

As a National Historic Landmark, visiting Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is one of the best things to do in Virginia.

Address: 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States

14. Military Aviation Museum

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There are plenty of aviation-focused museums in America – and even in Virginia! – and the Military Aviation Museum is one of those tourist places.

It focuses on displaying aircraft used by the military during World Wars I and II, and it has one of the world’s largest private historical aircraft collections.

The plans come from all over the world, including from Russia, Japan, Germany, and the UK.

Restorations and care have allowed the planes to be restored using either their genuine parts or impressive replicas, creating a hangar full of stunning displays that look as though they could take off flying at any moment – and some can!

During air shows in fall and spring, some plans are flown and showed off in an incredible spectacle, alongside other activities!

This Virginia museum’s collection is regularly growing, too, so you can visit again every year and find something new.

Address: 1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23457, United States

15. Norfolk Botanical Garden

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The Norfolk Botanical Garden is one of the very best of Virginia attractions that you can find.

It is open throughout the year and showcases tons of different themes gardens, with varying locations that will appeal to all ages.

No matter who you visit Virginia with, you’ll find something to do.

An indoor exhibit, hosted in the Barker Hall Visitor Center, features art, painting, and photography exhibits that rotate throughout the year.

Outside, the gardens can be walked through, or you can join bike rides in the evenings, and there are lots of benches to sit down at.

If you don’t want to walk, you can take a tram, too, or perhaps ride the boat out onto Lake Whitehurst.

Different gardens include the rose garden, a desert garden, the butterfly area, the Annette Kagan Healing Garden, the children’s garden, and the Japanese garden, all stretched out along 12 miles of walking space.

There is also a picnic area and vending machines for snacks.

Address: 6700 Azalea Garden Rd, Norfolk, VA 23518, United States

16. Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

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The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is among the top things to do in Virginia.

It is located in Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg, on the campus of James Madison University, and is one of the few dog-friendly locations in Virginia that you can visit.

It is both a botanical garden and an arboretum.

Taking up 125 acres of land, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretums lined with a forest of Oak-Hickory, flowers, plants, and more.

Throughout the area, you can walk on paved paths, take in the cool, rustic atmosphere, admire statues, sit on well-crafted seats, and feed the ducks.

Fern Valley displays some relaxing New York fern, and the April Walk Daffodil Garden is perfect for those who can’t get enough of those fun plants.

There is also a planting area for experimentation that houses hybrid azaleas, an herb garden, and even a wetlands garden.

Address: 780 University Blvd, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, United States

17. Manassas National Battlefield Park

Manassas National Battlefield Park was the site of two different American Civil War battles, so history buffs should add it to their list of things to see while in Virginia.

These battles are called the First and Second Battles of Bull Run but are also referred to aptly as the First and Second Battles of Manassas.

They took place on the 21st of July in 1861 and from the 28th to the 30th of August in 1862, respectively.

It is in this very field that the famous General Thomas J. Jackson earned his well-deserved nickname of “Stonewall”.

The site is impeccably preserved, and its historical significance documented well for visitors.

All information is easy to understand, and tours are fun and led by rangers to take you over the scene of Bull Run.

You’ll also get to watch an informative video on the subject.

Other than that, at this Virginia site, you can visit the hiking trails, check out the museum to view artifacts left behind from the battles, buy souvenirs at the gift shop, or even just go birdwatching, since over 160 species of birds flock to Manassas National Battlefield Park.

There is also the Stone Bridge, which still stands today, and was used when the Union Army retreated in both of their fights.

Address: 6511 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA 20109, United States

18. The Mariner’s Museum and Park

The Mariners’ Museum and Park

The Mariner’s Museum and Park is an impressive maritime museum that has a bit of everything.

From a stunning park for sightseeing to the largest library of a nautical theme in the western hemisphere, there’s something for everyone, and that makes visiting here one of the best and most fun things to do in Virginia.

The Mariner’s Museum and Park first opened its doors in the 1930s, when it was established by Homer L. Ferguson and Archer Milton Huntington.

It has artifacts that will take you on a trip from the European age of exploration all the way up to the work of the US Navy.

Over 32,000 objects, 210 of artifacts, and 1.75 million documents and materials live in this museum.

Some of the more famous spots in this Virginia museum are the USS Monitor Center, which showcases the world’s biggest conservation facility of marine archaeological metals in the Batten Conservation Complex.

There’s also the Explorers Theater, which features opportunities to watch 3D movies in HD that feature the ocean and the underwater world.

You can also stop by the International Small Craft Center to view watercraft collections.

Address: 100 Museum Dr, Newport News, VA 23606, United States

19. Assateague Island

Assateague Island is only 37 miles long, so it’s perfect for a short trip, perhaps over this weekend!

It’s owned by three different conservation agencies, two different states, and, most strangely, two herds of feral ponies that are rounded up yearly to swim up to Virginia.

The island sits on the eastern coast of the peninsula of Delmarva and is considered a National Natural Landmark.

It’s not a place that humans live, but the feral ponies have thrived on Assateague Island for centuries.

They’re very self-sufficient, drinking from freshwater ponds and living off the grass.

Some believe they are not actually ponies originally, but horses who became shorter to adapt to the environment over the many, many years.

No one really knows where the ponies came from.

Some believe they are descended from escaped equines from a shipwreck, and there is the historically accurate tale of La Galga, a Spanish galleon that was wrecked nearby in 1750.

However, no one has been able to find the galleon yet – though some have reason to believe that the wreck is not buried in the sand of Assateague Island.

There aren’t many activities to do here, but it’s still fun to visit!

20. George Washington Birthplace National Monument

The George Washington Birthplace National Monument isn’t the former president’s home, as that was destroyed in 1779 in a fire.

But this spot in Virginia where the first American president was born back in 1732 has since been sufficiently recreated to mimic the style of his upper-class home, stuffed with interesting period furnishings.

Within the grounds, you can visit the Memorial House and the Kitchen House, both of which are staffed by reenactors dressed in period outfits to give you a taste of old Virginia.

Walk around to the Colonial Herb and Flower Garden to learn about plants from the era, or head to the Colonial Living Farm to check out traditional farming methods and meet a pair of Red Devon oxen directly descended from those owned by Washington himself.

Another one of the things to see in the George Washington Birthplace National Monument is the Visitor’s Center, which hosts artifacts from the original home and a 15-minute film that discusses the Washington family.

There’s also the cemetery outside, home to 32 graves of Washington’s family.

Address: 1732 Popes Creek Rd, Colonial Beach, VA 22443, United States

21. Shenandoah National Park

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Shenandoah National Park covers much of the famous mountains of Virginia, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Piedmont, all in one.

The park itself was originally created in the 1920s.

The Shenandoah River winds through the park, its valleys and water rushing by as the Skyline Drive, spanning 105 miles, does the same throughout the park’s length with 75 lookout posts to stop at for the best views of one of the most loved natural Virginia attractions.

With 500 miles of hiking trails, 101 of which are a part of the Appalachian Trail, there is lots to enjoy in Shenandoah National Park.

Along the way, you’ll see waterfalls, spots of beauty, wildlife such as cougars, coyotes, black bears, beavers, and deer, and more than 200 bird species, including Carolina chickadees and tufted titmice.

Restaurants, camping spots, and lodges are scattered across the park for you to stop at.

Address: 17157 Skyline Dr, Front Royal, VA 22630, United States

22. Great Falls Park

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Great Falls Park is a National Park Service site, making it one of the smaller tourist attractions with this status in Virginia.

It sits on 800 acres of land and can be found in the north of Fairfax County, just along the Potomac River’s banks, close to some remains of America’s early canals, the Patowmack Canal.

Though it isn’t connected to the George Washington Memorial Parkway, it is considered a part of it.

Address: 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102, United States

23. National Firearms Museum

The National Firearms Museum is situated in Fairfax, Virginia and is one of the most fascinating historical points of interest you can find in the state.

It has a collection of guns dating back up to 700 years, mapping out a timeline of the use of guns in America and the nation’s wild love and borderline obsession with the mechanical armament.

The National Firearms Museum is operated and owned by the National Rifle Association and seeks to showcase the importance of firearms in the country, as well as the innovation used in their technology.

The Virginia museum features 15 galleries, all divided into different eras, typically with titles that indicate the attitude and usage of the weapons displayed.

For example, the An Age of Elegance gallery focuses on Spanish-American War guns and firearms of Theodore Roosevelt.

The Ever Vigilant gallery showcases World War II weapons as well as modern ones.

The Ancient Firearms gallery has some firearms dating back to 1350.

The Hollywood Guns gallery has famous weapons like the .44 Magnum of Dirty Harry, the space revolver of Mal Reynolds, and the shot barrel shotgun of the Joker.

Address: 11250 Waples Mill Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030, United States

24. George Washington Masonic National Memorial

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The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is located in Alexandria, Virginia.

It was built by Freemasons to honor the late first president of the United States.

It sits on a hill, looking over Old Town Alexandria, celebrating George Washington’s life and Freemasonry in America while also being a stately building perfect for use as an event space and lodge.

If you’re looking for where to visit that has such a rich history, this is the place to be.

The building is tall with a 333-foot height, built to look just like the Lighthouse of Alexandria of old.

Nine stories are dedicated to a wide range of relevant topics.

Though plans for the project can be traced in 1852, it wasn’t until 1909 that the project began gathering funding, and it wasn’t until 1922 that construction actually began.

The memorial was completed and dedicated in 1932 and so many people attended that the House of Representatives closed for the day.

The architecture of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial is made with pure granite.

The interior halls would actually not be totally completed until the year 1972.

The first and second floors are open for public viewing, containing meeting rooms and halls.

You can, however, follow hourly tours explore the other floors and have fun.

This includes the fourth floor with the George Washington Museum, the Ark of the Covenant replica on the fifth floor, the Memorial Library on the sixth floor, the Temple of Solomon on the seventh floor, and a recreation of the throne room of King Solomon on the ninth floor.

Address: 101 Callahan Dr, Alexandria, VA 22301, United States

25. Edgar Allan Poe Museum

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If you love Edgar Allan Poe and his works, then it goes without saying that the Edgar Allan Poe Museum in Virginia is an absolute must-see. Literature lovers will appreciate the celebration of the grim, gothic author, his works, and his life.

His penchant for gambling and drinking means that this is one of the only establishments that honors him, as his reputation prevented the city of Richmond from honoring him wholeheartedly.

Letters, artifacts, trinkets, and manuscripts related to Poe color this museum, but it’s not just the literary that fills its walls – there is also a lock of Poe’s hair, his walking stick, and even his socks!

A scale model of Richmond, as it would have been in Poe’s time, is also set up at the museum, which has the world’s largest collection of items related to the author.

Apart from all the intricacies that make this one of the most fun things to do in Virginia, cat lovers will be delighted by Edgar and Pluto, two resident black cats on the property!

Address: 1914 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23223, United States

If you’re visiting Richmond, check out some incredible things to do in Richmond, VA !

26. Kiptopeke’s Concrete Fleet

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Kiptopeke’s Concrete Fleet is a rather special and one-of-a-kind, fun spot among the tourist attractions of Virginia.

America has made very little concrete ships in its time, and nine of them make up this collection, slowly decaying in a poetic, whimsical, and somewhat eerie manner off a nondescript fishing pier.

At Kiptopeke State Park , the Concrete Fleet – also referred to as the Kiptopeke Breakwater – consists of 9 concrete ships that were made on contract during World War II for the US Maritime Commission.

24 of them were made, and they were brought here to protect the terminal from harsh weather at Kiptopeke Beach in 1948.

Eventually, the terminal and its ferry shut down in 1964, as the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel near to the area.

Still, the breakwater is crucial to marine life, providing a home for shellfish, coastal fish, and birds while protecting the pier.

Each ship is named after pioneers who worked in the development of concrete.

Address: Kiptopeke State Park, Cape Charles, VA 23310, United States

27. Mount Vernon

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Mount Vernon is one of the must-see spots in Virginia, especially if you seek historical points of interest.

It is a place that George Washington himself called his home for a whopping 45 years while he led a revolution army and supervised the construction of the home.

He oversaw and influenced all its aspects, from interior design to the grounds.

The iconic and much-loved landmark is one of the best ways to get a peek into the life and times of the Washington family.

Inside, you’ll find heirlooms, crests, portraits, furniture, and more, all reconstructed to mimic what they were like in 18th century Virginia.

The surrounding gardens are lush, well-cared-for, and reminiscent of their plantation days.

Don’t forget to check out the immersive programs and exhibits in the first US president’s name!

Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121, United States

28. Chrysler Museum of Art

The Chrysler Museum of Art first opened its doors as the Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences in 1933.

Years later, in 1971, Walter P. Chrysler Jr. and his wife would make the huge donation of their private art collection to the museum in 1971.

The museum was promptly rebranded and is now one of the most influential and important art museums in the southeast of the nation.

Today, this museum in Virginia hosts more than 30,000 different objects from different points of history, some dating back 5,000 years.

American and European works, sculptures, and more make this one of the most interesting vacation spots for art-lovers.

Significant works include those by Salvator Rosa, Henri Matisse, and even Andy Warhol.

The Chrysler Museum of Art also offers events in this Glass Studio.

Daily demos for free, workshops, and classes are all held here, and there is an event that happens every third monthly Thursday that provides live performance art.

Address: 1 Memorial Pl, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

29. U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial

Jakapong Paoprapat / Shutterstock

The U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial often referred to as the Iwo Jima Memorial is a national monument recognized as one of the most iconic points of interest not just in Virginia, but all over the world.

The memorial is dedicated to Marine Corps since 1775 who have passed away in service to the US.

It was designed by an architect named Horace W. Peaslee and a sculptor named Felix de Weldom, inspired by a picture from combat photographer’s Joe Rosenthal that showed six Marines on Mount Suribachi waving a flag during the Iwo Jima battle.

Visit this Virginia site to pay respects to those passed, or simply to bask in its historical relevance.

Address: Arlington Blvd. and Meade St, Arlington, VA 22211, United States

30. National Museum of the Marine Corps

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

Similar to the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, the National Museum of the Marine Corps also honors the Marine Corps, and it’s one of the most popular places to see in Virginia and has been since its 2006 launching.

More than 500,000 visitors come by here annually, making it among Virginia’s most loved places for tourists.

Visiting and rotating exhibits make the rounds of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, but some exhibits are fixed, including the Making Marines, Legacy Walk, Defending A New Nation, World War I, World War II, Vietnam War, and Korean War exhibits.

As part of the 135-acre Marine Corps Heritage Center, it does its part in telling the long-known tale of the marine corps, their bravery, and their contributions.

Address: 18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Triangle, VA 22172, United States

31. Maymont Park

Maymont Park was once a private estate, and it is now a public park spanning 100 acres that is the most visited among Virginia attractions in Richmond.

It is a Victorian estate that formerly belonged to Major James H. Dooley and his wife Sallie Dooley.

They donated it and its grounds to the public, and the rest is history.

On the grounds of the Virginia home, you’ll find a lot of things to do, ranging from the fun to the relaxing.

Japanese gardens and Italian gardens wind through the grounds.

There is a nature center, an arboretum, a museum housed in the building of the Maymont Mansion, and even a little zoo!

Some of the other best parts of Maymont Park are the carriage collection, the children’s farm, the wildlife exhibits, and the impeccable antiques all over the property.

Address: 1700 Hampton St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States

32. American Shakespeare Center

Living-Learning Programs / flickr

Looking for cool things to do while you’re in Virginia?

The American Shakespeare Center would be among the top spots that fit that description for literature lovers.

It is one of the world’s most respected theater companies and is a surefire must-see – but it didn’t start out that way!

Years and years ago, the center was merely a troupe from Shenandoah Valley, touring as they could.

Over time, they grew in fame, and now they live in the Blackfriars Playhouse, a theater with seats for 300 and countless Shakespeare productions (and other plays) performed all year round.

The playhouse building is designed to be a perfect replica of the Blackfriars Monastery in London, which is a theater built with the aid of Shakespeare himself.

Everything is historically accurate and well-done!

Address: 10 S Market St, Staunton, VA 24401, United States

33. Dinosaur Kingdom II

Amy Meredith / flickr

Dinosaur Kingdom II is one of Virginia’s most unique places to visit – and probably the most fun!

It is a history park that reimagines history through a simple lens: what if the Union Army lost the War but to dinosaurs?

Yes, it’s as hilarious as it sounds!

In the woods, this science fiction park sets the stage for an alternate reality version of the Civil War.

The story is simple: in 1864, a group of paleontologists from the South was at the Lost Caverns, excavating fossils, when they chanced upon a shocking discovery – a valley, hidden, full of dinosaurs!

The Garrison Family studied the dinosaurs peacefully, but the Union Army wanted to turn them into weapons, and that’s where everything went wrong!

This silly, whimsical park brings you through a path that shows the Union Army’s demise to the huge dinosaurs, all in sometimes gruesome detail, set to thematic music.

It’s a great joy of a park to explore!

Address: 5781 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578, United States

34. Byrd Theatre

The Byrd Theatre & Foundation

The Byrd Theatre in Richmond, Virginia has been operating since 1928, with ticket prices of a mere 25 cents.

The top theater was opened at a time when film executives were still unsure of talking films, therefore fitting the Byrd with both a Mighty Wurlitzer organ for silent films and a sound synchronization system for talking ones.

On Saturdays, the organist of the theater plays the organ, too!

Much of the appearance of the building looks “dated” – in other words, it hasn’t changed much over the years, making it one of the historical places of interest in the state.

Still, modern improvements have, of course, been added over the years; the rustic vibe doesn’t prevent technological advancements!

For the most part, the Byrd shows second-run films, with occasional special throwbacks to old classics.

It’s just a fun place to head to if you want to watch a movie the way the generations before did, complete with that authentic, vintage vibe.

Address: 2908 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221, United States

35. Virginia’s Natural Tunnel

K e v i n / flickr

Virginia’s Natural Tunne l is located in the Appalachian Mountains, and many consider it one of the most beautiful places in Virginia.

It’s not an unearned title – the natural tunnel is 300 yards in length and a stream gently flows through it, running near railroad tracks that have seen more than a century of use.

The aforementioned railroad tracks are still being used to this day.

Trains cross the area quite often, and usually, you can only get close to the platform by riding the train and zooming by it.

But there’s one day a year where that changes.

It’s called Railroad Day.

This is when the train shuts down and visitors are allowed to trek through the cave, allowing them to walk right on the tracks.

The trail leading to the tunnel can be a little difficult to deal with, even though it’s a good, short one that only takes about 20 minutes to climb down on and 30 minutes to climb up on.

If you need accessibility, there’s a ski lift that can bring you up and down.

Address: 1420 Natural Tunnel Pkwy, Duffield, VA 24244, United States

36. Colonial Williamsburg

Eric Foster Productions / Shutterstock

Colonial Williamsburg is the final piece of the historic triangle puzzle.

As far as Virginia destinations go, it’s among the greatest places to go to get a taste of the history of Virginia and the rest of the country.

The area spans 301 acres and is a direct representation of the 18th century capital of Britain, complete with restored buildings and items on display.

Most people go here to enter the Governor’s Palace, which is a large building that was home to two post-colonial governors and state Royal governors.

A tour of the “palace” shows off the sheer opulence and grandeur that came with pre-Revolution mansions.

The house is still decked out in elegant, old-fashioned furniture, and there are displays of weapons, a maze, and even tiered gardens to explore.

Plus, the Grand Ballroom still survives and is great for curious architects to check out!

Address: 101 Visitor Center Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States

37. Lee Chapel

Katherine Welles / Shutterstock

Lee Chapel is a rather controversial location.

Known as the shrine of the South, many would consider it among the top or at least the most interesting places to see while you’re visiting Virginia.

It is here that infamous Confederate General Robert E. Lee is buried.

Lee made a lot of tough decisions over the span of his life.

Perhaps it is this lack of fun that led to his exhausted death in October 1870.

When he passed away, his wife chose his final resting spot (which is the same as it is now!), and he was buried in the chapel basement within a wall of brick.

Address: 100 N Jefferson St, Lexington, VA 24450, United States

38. Abandoned Virginia Renaissance Faire

Jack Parrott / flickr

Fun things to do in VA often include exploring abandoned spaces, right?

Medieval nerds would be familiar with renaissance faires all across the country, and Virginia is no exception to the rule.

But just what happened to the ren-faire activities of the original Virginia Renaissance Faire ?

The travel time, climate, and swampy land, as it turned out, was not kind to this particular Faire.

Its owners had shut it down after two seasons of repeat losses and left the replicas to rot where they stand while the moved the rest of the props elsewhere.

These days, the Faire is carried out in a different location under the same name – but it’s worth paying the original location a visit, just to have a peek.

Be aware that it’s all built on private property, however, so it’s really something to be admired from a distance.

Address: 5621 Courthouse Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551, United States

39. Hollywood Cemetery

Atomazul / Shutterstock

What travel guide to Virginia would be complete without acknowledging its historical sites?

Designed in 1847 and opened two years later, Hollywood Cemetery would soon see plenty of residents welcome the arrival of the Civil War 12 years later.

A gorgeous location that captures rolling hills and the view of downtown Richmond area and the James River, this cemetery serves as the final resting place for 18,000 Confederate soldiers, two U.S. presidents, and several other generals.

Visitors can enjoy the garden-style 135 acres while taking a moment to appreciate the history that lays under their feet.

A 90-foot pyramid serves as a memorial for the lives that have been lost.

From here, brave, intrepid visitors can visit try to visit the mausoleum of W.W. Pool, which supposedly contains a vampire.

The nearby Church Hill Tunnel is a location that has its own dark history as well.

Address: 412 S Cherry St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States

40. Wolf Trap National Park

Ron Cogswell / flickr

Not everyone enjoys being among trees for too long, especially young children – so this may be one of the best places to go for families with children.

Located in Vienna, Virginia, this is a national park with a difference – unlike most other parks, this one is completely dedicated to the performing arts.

Worried about the weather getting in the way?

Don’t worry, Wolf Trap National Park is one of the places to head to for both indoor and outdoor shows all year round.

Thanks to all the concession stands and restrooms, this is a place where you can easily spend a whole day in.

You can even book a supper in advance, should you want to watch any nighttime shows.

There are trolleys available for the disabled and elderly as well.

Either way, visitors will have plenty of fun here.

However, do bear in mind that the park gets very busy during the summer, so you’ll want to have things booked in advance before you go.

Address: 1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182, United States

41. Nauticus

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

For those with love for all things nautical, this is a fun location that ought to top their list of Virginia destinations – a marine-themed science center-slash-museum located in Norfolk .

Also known as the National Maritime Centre, the Nauticus was established in 1994 and was dedicated to the commercial and military naval history in Virginia.

Drop down to see exhibits about ships that have sailed the seas here, and learn about the historical events that had unfolded in these harbors.

If you’re worried about being bored by just nothing but collections and exhibits, there are all sorts of events that are hosted here, many of them enticing and exciting.

Do check them out in advance, since some of them require that you book your place first.

All in all, this is a great place to visit if you want to spend an afternoon.

Address: 1 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

42. President Heads

Mobilus In Mobili / flickr

Need a fun thing to do this weekend?

Perhaps this funky little setup might catch your fancy.

Up till 2010, one could travel to Presidents Park in Williamsburg, Virginia, to visit 43 giant busts of U.S. presidents, all sculpted by David Adickes.

Unfortunately, they couldn’t stay there.

Despite being a top attraction, the Park soon closed down in 2010, and the busts had to move elsewhere.

Unwilling to destroy or be parted with them, the Houston-based artist moved them all to his own family farm.

The 20-foot-tall, 22,000-pound busts are scuffed and suffered some minor damage on the way to their new home, but are thankfully largely safe and sound.

Visitors can still visit the busts if they so choose, though access is limited since it is in a private property.

If you’re interested in finding these busts a permanent home, there’s a crowdfunding campaign that you can contribute to!

Address: Hankins Farm, Williamsburg, VA 23188, United States

43. Church Hill Tunnel

Ronnie Pitman / flickr

If you’re a horror buff still asking about what to do in Virginia, then look no further than this historical location.

Located in Richmond, Virginia, Church Hill seems to be a quaint hillside – but it hides a relatively dark secret.

There was a train tunnel that once cut through the hill, but its construction and short life was plagued with deaths of all kind.

It all came to a head in 1925, where 190 feet of the tunnel collapsed, trapping a locomotive, its cargo, and the men repairing the tunnel deep under the earth.

After the rescuers failed to find all the bodies, railroad officials decided it was too costly and sealed the tunnel for good.

These days, it’s just a well-equipped park with a gorgeous view.

If you head over to Jefferson Park, you can find a memorial that marks the tunnel and the history that had unfolded there.

Address: 401 N 18th St, Richmond, Virginia, United States

44. Virginia Living Museum

C Watts / flickr

Established in 1966, the Virginia Living Museum originally started out as a planetarium and nature museum before swapping focus several times over the next few decades.

These days, it is one of the greatest tourist attractions in the state for living exhibits.

Spread across 5,500 square feet, the museum has an incredible exhibition full of indigenous species in their natural habitats, all arranged along a ¾ mile boardwalk.

There are also other exhibits and collections centered largely on the various environments the state has to offer.

And if you’re a kid who wants to have fun, there’s even a Touch Tank where you can touch rays and other sea creatures!

With just how much there is to see and do here, it’s a good idea to plan at least a full day expedition to this incredible museum – ideally two, so you and your family won’t feel rushed.

Address: 524 J Clyde Morris Blvd, Newport News, VA 23601, United States

45. Foamhenge

Ben Schumin / flickr

Planning your trip but can’t go all the way to the UK to visit the actual Stonehenge?

Think that the actual historical place is located is too far away, too expensive, and too cold?

Why not check out this full-sized Styrofoam replica right here in Centerville, Virginia?

This highly photogenic replica is a tourist destination that should be on your list of fun things to do in Virginia.

It’s creator, Mark Cline of Enchanted Castle Studio originally came up with the concept when he visited a company called Insulated Business Systems.

There, he found 16-foot-tall blocks and was immediately arrested by the idea.

These days, Foamhenge is located at Cox Farms in Centreville.

Because it is located on private property, access to it will be limited – so please make sure to check the opening times in advance.

You can access it via a shuttle from Corner Market during the specified hours.

Address: 4942 Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578, United States

46. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens

Gr8t Shots / Shutterstock

You’ll find Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens sitting on the top of tourist places to visit in Virginia – and for a good reason.

Covering an incredible 50 acres, this garden sits on land that was once part of the Powhatan Indian hunting grounds.

So if you want to do some exploration on historic grounds, this should be your go-to!

Feel free to explore the grounds here, and check out the historical domed conservatory – a beautiful one-of-its-kind building in the entirety of the mid-Atlantic.

The gorgeous gardens themselves are all themed, with some of the more famous examples being Asian Valley, Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, and Cherry Tree Walk.

You might think that a garden is otherwise pretty boring, but the grounds are actually buzzing with all sorts of activities as well.

Drop on by to check out their events such as outdoor yoga, gardening classes, and even some unusual ones like PokéMondays!

Address: 1800 Lakeside Ave, Richmond, VA 23228, United States

47. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Jay Yuan / Shutterstock

Nature nuts take note – Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is an amazing location for those who wish to see the Chincoteague ponies.

An endangered species unique to this barrier island, the feral ponies are largely stunted in size, thanks to their poor diet.

The Virginia half of Assateague Island has a lot more to offer than just endangered horses, however.

You can check out the shipwrecks scattered across the island’s shores via snorkeling, or go horseback riding if you rather not drive through in over-sand vehicles.

If you have a valid fishing license, then why not go fishing, clamming, and crabbing too?

Visitors dropping by this island to go site seeing will also find plenty of wildlife to spot.

The island is home to animals such as fox squirrels, red foxes, brown pelicans, merlins, and white-tailed dear.

Other endangered animals you may spot include the likes of the piping plover and sika deer as well!

Address: 8231 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, United States

48. The Light Of Truth Universal Shrine (LOTUS)

Light Of Truth Universal Shrine – LOTUS

Are you the spiritual sort?

Do you seek out scenic places so that you may calm your soul and feel at peace with the world?

Perhaps this lotus-shaped temple in Yogaville is the place you seek, as one of the best places to visit in Virginia for spirituality.

Built near Buckingham in Shenandoah Valley, this graceful building is steeped in spirituality – from the land it is built, to the design philosophies dictating its walls.

While the temple largely takes its cues from Buddhism and Hinduism, its goal is more universal – to create interfaith understanding and create worldwide religious harmony.

Inside the temple, you’ll find neon lights highlighting all sorts of altars that honor the various faiths and beliefs of the world.

Feel free to stay here for the day to meditate, reflect, and recharge, before heading back out into the world again.

If you feel deeply touched by this spiritual space, however, then consider staying here for a longer stint at the ashram.

Address: 1 Lotus Shrine Ln, Buckingham, VA 23921, United States

49. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

NYC Russ / Shutterstock

Need some fun stuff to do while you’re in Virginia?

Why not head on down to what may be the coolest museum in the county?

An aviation museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is dedicated to hosting an incredible collection of aircraft and spacecraft from all across history.

Some of their exhibits include the likes of the Discovery space shuttle and a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird.

Alternatively, pretend to be a traffic controller while watching the 360-degree livestream feed of the activities visible from the Donald D. Engen Observation Tower.

Or for the more engineering-minded, watch specialists at work in the Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar restoring and reconstructing all sorts of rare artifacts.

If you need something more hands-on, participating in science demonstrations and Learning Lab programs may be just up your alley.

To wrap up your stay, give yourself a memorable experience with your very first flight experience in the museum’s jet simulator!

Address: 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151, United States

50. Water Country USA

Inside the Magic / flickr

Is summer getting too hot?

Then clearly the solution is to add the largest water park in the state – and one of the best places to visit in Virginia – to your list of places to go!

Book a cabana and spend the whole day wet and cool at the wave pool, take a trip down a water slide, or hop onto a raft and go paddling around Water Country USA .

Whatever you need for a great day at a waterpark, they have it.

They even have outlets for lunch, so you’ll never be in want.

So if you’re looking for fun things to do in VA that’ll satisfy the whole family, then make sure to keep this location in mind!

Start Planning Your Trip To Virginia

Whether you’re heading to Virginia now, this weekend, or next month, it never hurts to plan your activities ahead so you can check out some great vacation spots !

We hope that this guide has helped you figure out where to go and allowed you to unearth the most exciting and cool parts of the great state of Virginia!

12 Best Things to Do in Virginia

Virginia is a beautiful destination, from sandy Atlantic Ocean beaches on the eastern shores to scenic mountains and valleys in the western region of the state. All across the landscape, major historic sites, natural wonders, and historic cities and towns offer thousands of fun things to explore and enjoy during your Virginia vacation, weekend getaway, or day trip.

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

Created as a recreational scenic roadway , the Blue Ridge Parkway is a designated All American Road and the most visited unit of the U.S. National Park System. The northern entrance of the Parkway begins in Virginia at Milepost 0 near the southern terminus of Shenandoah National Park. From there, the byway traverses 217 miles in Virginia along the picturesque ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains and through the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, before reaching the North Carolina border, where it continues for another 252 miles.

Although the roadway is generally open year-round, many of the facilities and activities are available only seasonally, making the spring, summer, and fall the best times of the year to plan your visit. Each season offers a unique experience along the Blue Ridge Parkway, from the flamboyant Catawba Rhododendron and other wildflower displays in the spring to camping, heritage festivals, and more in the summer. And don't forget about nature's gorgeous symphony of color during the fall.

Get Some Sun at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Ideally located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay in southeastern Virginia, Virginia Beach is a lively resort city, attracting year-round visitors as well as summer beach vacationers. The popular Virginia Beach resort area extends approximately 40 hotel- and restaurant-lined blocks along the Atlantic Oceanfront and the famous Virginia Beach boardwalk . Whale watching makes for a great adventure.

Throughout the year, many festivals and special events add to the beachfront ambiance. At Christmastime, visitors are able to drive on the Boardwalk to enjoy the annual holiday lights display.

Visit Colonial Williamsburg

Located near Interstate 64 about halfway between Richmond and Norfolk, approximately 150 miles south of Washington, D.C., Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the United States. Spread across a 301-acre Historic Area, this fascinating 18th-century restored city encompasses 88 original buildings and close to 500 reconstructed buildings, most on the original foundations, including hundreds of homes, shops, public buildings, and other structures. Authentically costumed professional interpreters, re-enactors, and tradespeople interact with visitors, bringing the experience to life 365 days a year.

Ongoing and seasonal programs, tours, and special events offer additional activities for all ages. While Colonial Williamsburg is an ideal choice for families and groups to enjoy engaging with history, it also offers many appealing features for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Explore Shenandoah National Park

Known for its sweeping, majestic views, well-maintained trails, abundant wildlife, waterfalls, mountain lodges, camping options, and other recreational outdoor activities, Shenandoah National Park overlooks the historic Shenandoah Valley to the west and the rolling hills and ridges of the central Virginia Piedmont region to the east. Skyline Drive, a National Scenic Byway and the park's most popular attraction, is one of the most scenic drives in Virginia and the nation.

Approximately 101 miles of the legendary Appalachian Trail run through the park, following a similar route to Skyline Drive. Although Shenandoah National Park is open and stunning year-round, lodging, food services, campgrounds, and visitor centers close from December through March. In severe weather conditions, Skyline Drive may close as well.

Tour George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate

The beloved historic home of George and Martha Washington, Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens is located in Northern Virginia, overlooking the Potomac River about eight miles south of Old Town Alexandria, Virginia and 16 miles south of Washington, D.C. With an average of about one million yearly visitors, Mount Vernon is the most popular historic estate in the United States.

The expansive site comprises 500 acres, with approximately 50 acres open to the public. In addition to tours of the Mansion, there are several out buildings, gardens and trails, an orientation center, galleries, Washington's Tomb, a Slave Burial Ground and Memorial, a Pioneer Farmer Site, heritage farm animals, and more. Mount Vernon is open every day of the year and special programs and events take place during all seasons .

Tour Thomas Jefferson's Monticello

Thomas Jefferson—the third U.S. president and one of the most influential figures in American history—designed, remodeled, and enlarged his Virginia home, Monticello , over a period of 40 years from 1769 to 1809. Located in Charlottesville in Central Virginia, Monticello is a National Historic Landmark and, along with the University of Virginia, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Monticello is open every day of the year except Christmas. In addition to daily tours, there are many seasonal events, special evening tours, and family-friendly activities to enhance your visit. The annual Monticello Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony is the nation's oldest continuous naturalization ceremony outside of a courtroom.

Get a History Lesson at the National Battlefield Parks

Millions of visitors each year explore Virginia's tumultuous and influential history at preserved battlefields across the state. In 1781, Yorktown Battlefield was the site of the final major battle of the American Revolutionary War, one of the most important battles in U.S. history.

Home of the former capital of the Confederacy, as well as the sites of the first and final major battles of the American Civil War, the Virginia landscape is scattered with close to 800 Civil War sites, more than any other state in the nation. Among the key sites, six Civil War national parks preserve and interpret events of the war, attracting history buffs year after year: Manassas National Battlefield Park, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, Richmond National Battlefield Park, Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park, Petersburg National Battlefield, and Appomattox Court House and National Historical Park.

Pay Respects at Arlington National Cemetery

Victoria Chamberlain / TripSavvy

A visit to the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery is an interesting, powerful, and memorable experience. In addition to the rows and rows of pristine headstones, many monuments, memorials, and dedicated trees pay tribute to people and significant events in U.S. history.

An interpretative bus tour, which departs continuously from the on-site Visitors Center, includes stops at the Kennedy gravesites, the Tomb of the Unknowns, Changing of the Guard, and Arlington House Robert E. Lee Memorial. The Women In Military Service for America Memorial is located at the Ceremonial Entrance to Arlington National Cemetery, directly across Memorial Bridge from the Lincoln Memorial. Annual Easter, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day ceremonies are free and open to the public.

Walk the Natural Bridge

Located in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, Virginia's Natural Bridge is a natural wonder and a National Historic Landmark. Thomas Jefferson was so taken with its beauty that he purchased it and many surrounding acres of land in 1774. As early as the eighteenth century, the Natural Bridge became a major tourist attraction.

Today, the Natural Bridge continues to be a major sightseeing attraction. It is a popular stop for tour groups, school groups, families, and other Virginia visitors. Over the years, several other attractions have been added to the complex. They include a one-mile nature trail, a small living history Native American Village, an indoor butterfly garden, a wax museum, and more. In the evenings on scheduled days, a light and sound show, "The Drama of Creation," is presented at the Bridge. Natural Bridge is open daily, although some of the ancillary attractions follow seasonal schedules.

Adventure to the Luray Caverns

Discovered in 1878 and attracting visitors from around the globe ever since, Luray Caverns is a designated United States Natural Landmark. Located in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, this fascinating natural wonder is only 9 miles from the central entrance to Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park.

A paved and lighted walkway winds through magnificent cathedral height chambers and around abundant examples of stalactite and stalagmite ornamentation. An ingenious Stalacpipe Organ, located in the Cathedral Chamber, produces a lovely, soothing tone and is touted as the world's largest musical instrument. The guided walking tour of the caverns (approximately 1.25 miles) lasts slightly more than one hour. There are a few other attractions at the complex as well.

Spot Wild Horses on the Chincoteague and Assateague Islands

Wikimedia Commons

Located just off the northeastern coastline of the Virginia portion of the Delmarva Peninsula, the close neighboring islands of Chincoteague and Assateague are probably best known for the wild horses (usually referred to as the "Chincoteague ponies"), made famous by Marguerite Henry's children's book, "Misty of Chincoteague," published in 1947 and later made into a movie.

While many visitors are initially attracted by the enchanting ponies, the area is also known for its charming fishing village, independently owned shops and restaurants, beaches, abundant wildlife, outdoor recreational options, and laid-back eastern shore vibe.

Ride the Rollercoasters at the Theme Parks

Two standout Virginia theme parks, located just over 70 miles from each other, offer family fun and thrills for all ages. Attracting millions of visitors each year, Busch Gardens Williamsburg has been voted "The World's Most Beautiful Theme Park" every year since 1990. The park features more than 50 rides in European-themed areas, including England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Scotland. In addition to the regular park schedule, the annual "Howl-O-Scream" offers spooky fall fun. During the Christmas holidays, Busch Gardens transforms into " Christmas Town ," a Christmas-themed wonderland.

Kings Dominion , located just off Interstate 95, about 75 miles south of Washington, D.C., is a 400-acre family theme park and a 20-acre water park that features more than 60 rides, slides, shows, and attractions. It includes the largest collection of roller coasters on the east coast. On scheduled fall weekend nights, the park offers scary fun during the annual Halloween Haunt .

You should also check out the USS Wisconsin Battleship in Norfolk.

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The Top Wine Trails and Regions in Virginia

9 Most Beautiful State Parks in Virginia

5 Scenic Driving Routes in Virginia

20 Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

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Top Virginia Attractions for Lovers

20 Great Small Towns Near Washington, D.C.

15 Top Things to Do in Northern Virginia

A Day Away: Fab Family Vacations Within 6 Hours of DC

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Science Says This Is the Perfect U.S. Road Trip

George Washington Memorial Parkway

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A Guide to Airports in Virginia

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Destinations

15 Best Places to Visit in Virginia, According to Locals

Virginia is filled with more than its fair share of amazing places to visit — from creative hubs to natural wonders you won’t find anywhere else.

Hal Chen / 500px/Getty Images

As someone who spent the first two decades of their life in Virginia, only to find themselves moving back after 10 years away, I can attest that it’s a state with a seemingly endless number of places to explore. My childhood was spent in the Blue Ridge Mountains — camping in the Peaks of Otter and canoeing down the James River — and my college years brought me to Williamsburg, where history and higher education go hand in hand with waterfront views. Now, I’m a resident of Charlottesville, a small city within driving distance of Shenandoah National Park and Virginia’s Wine Country.

“Virginia has everything that you could ever ask for,” says George Hodson, CEO of Veritas Vineyard and Winery in Afton. “For me, it is the natural resources… rivers, lakes, oceans, and mountains — and four seasons to enjoy each of them in.” Matilda Reuter Engle, proprietor of Middleburg Hospitality and general manager of The Red Fox Inn & Tavern and Glenstone Gardens , has the same mindset when it comes to the Old Dominion’s charm: “Virginians take great pride in their connection to nature, reflected in the state's agricultural heritage, rural traditions, and a commitment to preserving open spaces.”

Meet the Expert

George Hodson is the CEO of Veritas Vineyard and Winery in Afton, Virginia.

Matilda Reuter Engle is the proprietor of Middleburg Hospitality and general manager of The Red Fox Inn & Tavern and Glenstone Gardens .

No matter which region you’re traveling to, make sure you experience some of this unmatched natural beauty, as well as the small towns, culturally rich cities, and unforgettable sights that set this state apart. Read on to discover the best places to visit in Virginia.

Natural Bridge

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Travelers of all ages will want to make their way to Natural Bridge. Located just south of Lexington, it’s home to Natural Bridge State Park and the Caverns at Natural Bridge . The former, which is a designated National Historic Landmark, is known for its 200-foot-tall stone archway; the latter allows visitors to descend more than 34 stories into the Earth as they admire stalactites, stalagmites, and other underground wonders.

James River

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The largest river in Virginia, the James starts in the Appalachian Mountains and flows into the Chesapeake Bay. “It's an amazing place to get outside and be outside,” says Hodson, who recommends getting on the water in Scottsville with James River Runners .

Blue Ridge Parkway

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“If you want a beautiful drive, [the] Blue Ridge Parkway offers a scenic trip on the way to Shenandoah National Park,” says Reuter Engle. As you start planning your drive, download the Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner app; this is super helpful if you’re unsure what each region and section of the parkway offers.

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Virginia’s capital city has something for everyone — from history lovers and art fanatics to foodies and outdoorsy types. If you’re interested in the beverage scene, however, Hodson suggests checking out Scott's Addition , which he describes as a “playground for big kids.” Here, you’ll find old factories and warehouses converted into taprooms, cideries, and distilleries.

Smith Mountain Lake

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You may have heard it described as the “ Lake Tahoe of the East ,” but Smith Mountain Lake definitely has its own personality and appeal. The reservoir is the second-largest body of water in the state, with 500 miles of shoreline and two dozen islands, and it provides plenty of room for water activities — including swimming, boating, fishing, and various water sports.

Monticello Wine Trail

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Hodson calls this area of the world — one he’s very much familiar with — “a world-class wine region with so many great winery experiences, all within a 30-minute drive from Charlottesville.” The Monticello Wine Trail spans 40 vineyards, with each offering wine tastings paired with gorgeous Virginia views.

Historic Triangle

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The three points on the Historic Triangle — Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown — make for an educational and beautiful weekend getaway. Along the route, also known as the Colonial Parkway, you’ll have the chance to visit Historic Jamestowne, the Jamestown Settlement, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield, and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

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Crozet is “still a quiet little Virginia town, but [it’s] on the rise,” says Hodson. Plus, it’s a great day trip from Charlottesville. As far as an ideal itinerary, Hodson has you covered. “Grab a coffee and a bagel at Praha Bakery … head off to hike Blue Hole from the Sugar Hollow reservoir, then come back to downtown Crozet and treat yourself to a sauna and cold plunge at Reset Crozet .” Finally, he says, “Have dinner at the legendary Fardowners .”

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Reuter Engle, whose family has been in Middleburg for generations, admits that while she may be biased, the historic town has plenty to do and see in every season. Her must-experience list includes: “ Christmas in Middleburg’s traditional hunt parade that draws thousands each year; the Middleburg Film Festival in the fall; Historic Garden Week in the spring; and equestrian activities galore in the fall and spring, such as the Middleburg Spring Races, the Virginia Gold Cup, and the Upperville Colt & Horse Show.”

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Travelers may know Lexington for its association with Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington & Lee University, but it also boasts one of the most interesting outdoor entertainment venues. Once an abandoned limestone quarry and kiln, Lime Kiln Theater welcomes 675 guests to enjoy shows featuring bluegrass, folk, and other music genres surrounded by trees, natural stone walls, and the stars overhead. The 2024 season will be announced in March.

Shenandoah River

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“For the water sports enthusiast seeking an exhilarating experience, the Shenandoah River is a must-visit destination,” says Reuter Engle. Rafting, tubing, and kayaking are all possibilities, and she suggests heading to the Harpers Ferry Adventure Center “for both adventurous and family-friendly options.”

Virginia Beach

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Virginia has some of the country’s oldest mountains, but you can’t forget about its oceanfront destinations — namely, Virginia Beach. “I grew up a surfer kid at the beach, and I feel so at home there,” says Hodson, sharing that the ViBe Creative District , in particular, is notable for its “great coffee shops and restaurants.” He recommends grabbing a drink or a bite at Three Ships Coffee and The Pink Dinghy, which sit right next to one another.

Ashby Gap and Sky Meadows State Park

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“Just about an hour outside of Washington, D.C., these two spots on either side of Paris, Virginia are perfect for experiencing the natural beauty of our state with a good hike or walk outside,” explains Reuter Engle. Sky Meadows State Park is especially beautiful during the fall when foliage is at its peak. While in the area, she recommends stopping at The Ashby Inn for lunch and picking up local produce at Hollin Farms .

Bath County

Virginia Tourism Corporation

Just like the city of Bath in England, Bath County, Virginia gets its name from its natural healing waters. You can experience them for yourself by making a reservation at the recently renovated Warm Springs Pools , part of The Omni Homestead Resort . Travelers interested in the more agricultural side of the county can opt to stay at Apple Horse Farm , a sustainable cattle and pig farm with a standalone cabin available for short-term rentals.

Shenandoah National Park

Reuter Engle says travelers can expect “picturesque hiking” in Shenandoah National Park, where 500 miles of trails lead hikers to waterfalls, scenic landscapes, and remnants of pioneer history. One of the most popular paths is Old Rag, a 9.1-mile loop trail that’s labeled as “difficult.” If you can handle a bit of rock scrambling, though, the views are completely worth the climb.

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sunrise over mountains at shenandoah national park

17 Best Things To Do In Virginia: The Ultimate VA Bucket List

August 17, 2022 // by Southern Trippers

Are you looking for the best things to do in Virginia? You have come to the right place!

No matter what you are looking to do while you visit Virginia, you will have a great time! You will enjoy learning about U.S. history, soaking up some sun at the beach, or exploring the depths of nature. Virginia is loaded with interesting and fun activities for anyone!

There are many more Virginia attractions outside of the typical tourist locations. Some of the most fun things to do in Virginia are tucked away from the coast with plenty of hidden gems sprinkled across the state. No matter what your interests are, you are bound to come across plenty to enjoy a great getaway in Virginia!

There are plenty of parks to visit for sightseeing and hiking. Whether you are an art or history buff, there are lots of museums and historical sights to see. There are also plenty of interesting beaches outside of Virginia Beach to enjoy if you are looking to stay near the water!

Don’t fret! We’re here to help you plan your perfect vacation by giving you plenty of ideas about the best things to do in Virginia. There is plenty to do no matter what your budget is for the trip. Whether you’re staying for a short visit or you’re looking to spend a good bit of time, here are lots of ideas so you’re prepared to be entertained!

Dawn at Shenandoah National Park, one of the best things to do in Virginia!

Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Everyone knows to explore the shores when you’re visiting Virginia Beach. But if you want to take in the scenery below the surface and learn about the aquatic creatures of Virginia, you can visit the Virginia Aquarium! Enjoy the beautiful views below the ocean without even getting wet.

This is one of the best things to do in Virginia for adults and kids alike! Everyone will be interested in the colorful fish and other marine creatures.

Learn about hundreds of different species that live in and along the Atlantic Ocean. If you want to be outside and learn about the lives in the Atlantic, you can take a boat tour. You can even work up a sweat at the Adventure Park within the aquarium grounds.

This aquarium is definitely fun for the entire family. There is something there for everyone to enjoy which is why it is one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach !

After the aquarium, you can continue to explore one of the best beach towns in Virginia !

Blue and yellow fish swimming in the Virginia Aquarium.

Have Thrills at Busch Gardens

If you’re looking for a bit of a thrill during your trip, an amusement park in the South is always the way to go. Located right around the corner from Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens has something for everyone. The park is full of exciting roller coasters, rides, entertaining shows, and plenty of good food and drinks to keep you fueled for the day.

Get your heartbeat pumping on the Griffon coaster or soar through the air on Finnegan’s Flyer. If you need to cool off during a hot summer day, you can go next door to Water Country. Enjoy a good float down Hubba Hubba Highway or an exciting slide down Malibu Pipeline!

If you want a special experience, you can give yourself a spook during Howl-o-Scream during most of September and October. You can also visit Christmas Town during the holiday season in Virginia . You can even enjoy a Food and Wine festival during the springtime and enjoy different cuisines from around the world after whirling around in the sky on a roller coaster!

No matter what time of the year you go (just avoid the few colder months when the park is closed), you are bound to have an awesome time!

Rollercoasters at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Step Back in Time at Monticello

Virginia has bred a few of our nation’s presidents, but if you want to delve into the mind of the man who wrote the Declaration of Independence, you need to visit Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. If you love history, this is one of the best things to do in Virginia!

Located in Charlottesville, Virginia, Thomas Jefferson set out to build his home on top of a mountain. He called it Monticello (which means “little mountain” in old Italian). There are plenty of different types of tours to learn about the estate of one of our earliest presidents. Explore Jefferson’s home, his gardens, his gravesite, and many exhibits to learn about the life of Thomas Jefferson.

There is even a tour of the darker side of Jefferson’s history. The slavery tour will show you around the quarters and Mulberry Row, the industrial hub of the plantation. This is the perfect place to go to learn about a very important man in the history of the United States of America.

Thomas Jefferson's Monticello and gardens with a reflecting pond.

Stroll the Norfolk Botanical Garden

Come take a break from the city and enjoy the colorful sights and refreshing smells of the biggest botanical garden in Virginia! Each season has different flowery wonders on display. There are 7 miles of paved paths to explore, as well as 7 other miles of unpaved paths to venture.

It won’t be just local flora you’ll see, but flowers from all over the world. You can go have a picnic with the family, or enjoy a romantic hike through nature’s beauty on a date. It is definitely one of the best romantic getaways in Virginia for nature lovers.

Afraid the kids will be bored? There is a 3-acre Children’s Garden for the younger crowd. There are plenty of interactive activities to keep everyone entertained while learning about the natural world.

During every season you can enjoy a Japanese Garden, a Renaissance Garden, and even a Sensory Garden to engage all five senses while you explore. No matter what kind of flowers you enjoy, you won’t be able to help but be mesmerized by your surroundings here at the best gardens in Virginia !

Don’t forget to check out some of our favorite restaurants in Norfolk from seafood to brunch!

The Japanese Garden in Norfolk Botanical Gardens.

Hike to the Mill Mountain Star

Visit the Hollywood sign of the East Coast! The Roanoke Star, also known as the Mill Mountain Star, is the largest man-made star in the world that is free-standing as well as illuminated. Although this star was originally meant to be a Christmas decoration, it stands all year-round and is illuminated every night. Now, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Virginia, which also makes it one of the best things to do in VA!

In order to see the Roanoke Star up close, you will need to wander the trails of Mill Mountain Park. There are plenty of trails to blaze ranging in difficulty so everyone can find a path they can enjoy. Find the overlooks and revel in the view of the Blue Ridge Mountains! While you are visiting, make sure to visit the wildflower garden that lives on top of the mountain.

This is a beautiful park to visit and enjoy one of the many great scenes that the mountains of Virginia have to offer. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Roanoke !

Close up photo of the Mill Mountain Star and one of the best things to do in Virginia!

Admire Pretty Maymont

If you want to spend an afternoon exploring wildlife, walking amongst botanical wonders, and wandering inside a beautiful mansion, then Maymont is a great spot for you to visit and is always one of the best places to visit in Virginia !

See how the rich lived during the late 1800s in the 33-room Maymont mansion. There are a bunch of gardens and even an arboretum to explore nature’s beauty. There is a nature center, wildlife habitats, and even a farm where you can feed goats and other farm animals.

This is the perfect place to plan a picnic and spend the day relaxing and enjoying the outside life of Virginia, while also taking a break inside a grand mansion.

A beautiful scene of the garden and waterfall in Maymont.

Explore the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park

This site is definitely more morose than the others, but it also holds a very important part of our nation’s history. This park educates and preserves the many people and stories surrounding the ending of the American Civil War. Come walk the same paths as the soldiers and civilians that experienced the devastating effects of the Civil War.

The National Park Service has taken much time and effort to preserve the battlefields and keep the stories of their bloody past alive. Make sure to visit the many historic sites in Virginia located within the park! The Chatham and Ellwood manors both played important roles during the war. The Salem Church was a place of worship, refuge, battle, and attempted healing. There are two cemeteries to honor and remember all of the soldiers that died during the horrible war.

If you are interested in history and want to walk the dismal paths of the former US and Confederate soldiers who fought so many years ago, then this is one of the best activities in Virginia to learn about one of the darker parts of our history.

This is one of the best things to do in Fredericksburg, VA !

A statue honoring General Humphrey's Pennsylvania Division in Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park.

Soak in Culture at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

If you’re looking to explore the world of art, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond should definitely be on your list of sites to visit! Admission is free and the museum is open every day, even on holidays.

Virginia political and business leaders wanted to demonstrate their belief in the future and the importance of art during the Great Depression, so they decided to open this museum, making it one of the best things to do in Richmond .

Over the years, beginning with prominent Virginian Judge John Barton Payne donating his entire art collection to the Commonwealth, the museum built up a vast and valuable collection of fine art. There is a great display of art from all over the world thanks to the many donors who have given parts of their personal collections to the museum.

The museum holds exhibits that show American and European arts from the ages, but there are plenty of other exhibits that come and go so you can see different types of art any time you decide to visit the museum! There is something for everyone with their vast collection of paintings, photos, ceramics, sculptures, and more that flow in and out of the exhibits. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is definitely one of the best free things to do In Virginia!

The statue "Rumors of War" at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, one of the fun things to do in Virginia.

Tour the Military Aviation Museum

Virginia is home to many members of the United States military. Any current or former member of the military, or just anyone with a great appreciation for planes, would love to visit the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach!

This museum offers a very interesting experience for aviation lovers out there, making it one of the best places to go in Virginia!

Come visit one of the largest private collections of World War I and World War II planes. Most of the planes are still able to fly today, and the museum offers demonstrations of many of their planes so you can watch them in action. If you come during the flight season, you can even take a ride in some of their planes!

The museum offers group tours through the hangars that hold the vast collection of planes. Since the planes are taken out to be maintained and flown, they are stored right in large plane hangars and you are able to walk right up to all of their planes! There are four different hangars full of planes to explore on-site, as well as the Goxhill Tower, the actual tower that was built during World War II in England to help fight against Nazi Germany!

If you or a loved one have any appreciation for the world of planes, you will not be disappointed by a visit to this museum. Even people who normally show no great interest in planes can enjoy this unique museum. There are not many museums that house relics that still work to this day and can be explored up close and personally!

Check out some of our favorite beaches in Virginia Beach and nearby!

A plane named "Wild Cargo" at the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach, VA.

Head Underground at Luray Caverns

The Luray Caverns in Luray, Virginia, are the largest caverns in the eastern United States! This is definitely a site to visit when you are visiting Virginia. You can explore the great rock formations under the earth without having to be an experienced spelunker when you visit this cavern that is 4 million centuries in the making.

The caverns are well lit and have paved walkways making them accessible to anyone! When you come below the earth, you will be greeted with ceilings that stretch 10 stories high, towering stone formations, and are surrounded by miracles of nature. You will come across underground lakes, mountains of limestone, a 47-foot-tall Double Column, and even the Great Stalacpipe Organ which is the world’s largest musical instrument.

If you love to walk among nature and its vast and great power, the Luray Caverns will definitely be a treat! Come explore the natural limestone formations that rest under the earth and experience the best caverns to visit in Virginia !

Limestone formaitons in Luray Caverns, one of the best things to do in Virginia!

Visit Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest

Thomas Jefferson owned quite a bit of property in Virginia, and Poplar Forest in Forest, Virginia, was his beautiful retreat away from his main home in Monticello. Jefferson really released his creativity when creating these grounds. He wanted this to be the best dwelling found in Virginia.

Come tour Jefferson’s retreat and explore the perfectly restored architecture. There are plenty of artifacts from the free and enslaved people who made Poplar Forest what it was back in Jefferson’s time, and the timeless beauty it is today.

There are multiple tours available of the grounds, including the main house where Jefferson spent his retirement away from the public and the slave quarters where you’ll learn about the strength and despair of the enslaved that lived amongst the grounds.

Thomas Jefferson made a great impression on the United State of America for many reasons and was definitely an important person to come out of Virginia despite his flaws. Poplar Forest shows his creative work after he retired from politics and indulged in his favorite past times. This home of Jefferson really shows the people what Jefferson was like outside of many of his important accomplishments making it one of the best things to do in Virginia for a day trip !

The house at Poplar Forest made of brick with columns.

Travel to the Past at Colonial Williamsburg

Step back in time and explore the largest outdoor living museum in the USA! Colonial Williamsburg offers an immersive experience for guests as they walk amongst the people who lived back in the 18th century. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, gardens, and historic buildings and homes to explore among the 301 acres of this historic legacy.

There are plenty of tours offered to learn about life in the 18th century. You can explore the capital, the blacksmith, the Governor’s Palace, the public armory, and even an American Indian Encampment site! They even offer ghost tours (and special tours at night for adults). It is one of the most haunted places in Virginia ! The immersive experience definitely makes it one of the best weekend getaways in Virginia!

You can take a carriage ride, visit art museums, and watch colonial military demonstrations. There is even a Williamsburg restaurant that serves authentic food of the 18th century! You are surrounded by actors that help you feel like you have traveled back in time.

Everyone can find something that interests them when they are visiting Colonial Williamsburg. Any history buff would feel like a child again exploring a new/old world! It is also one of the coolest small towns in Virginia! This is one of the best things to do in Williamsburg !

The Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg, one of the best places to visit in Virginia!

Visit the Poe Museum

One of America’s greatest authors, Edgar Allan Poe, was a resident of Virginia! You can come to learn all about his life and literary achievements at the Poe Museum in Richmond! If you are curious at all about how this peculiar man lived and came up with his famous writings, this museum will definitely be a place you must visit!

Poe spent a great amount of time in Richmond, Virginia, and began his literary career there. The museum houses the largest collection of Poe memorabilia and artifacts in the world. Next to the museum lies the Enchanted Garden inspired by Poe’s poem “To One in Paradise.” There are even two museum cats, Poe and Pluto, to honor Poe’s love for cats!

If you love Edgar Allan Poe and his works and want to learn more about the life he lived and his inspirations, the Poe Museum is worth the visit! It is also one of the best hidden gems in Virginia !

The Enchanted Garden in the Poe Museum, one of the many fun things to do in Virginia.

Fall in Love with Shenandoah National Park

If hiking is your forte, then you surely need to visit Shenandoah National Park ! Travel along Skyline Drive to find the many different trails the park has to offer!

There are Virginia hiking trails for all levels of experience. The trails will lead you to great heights, lots of beautiful waterfalls, exciting wildlife sightings, and the wonderful feeling of being in touch with mother nature. You can take plenty of short hikes if you want to take it slow and test how far you are able to go. There are also plenty of long and challenging hikes that include rock scrambling to really challenge yourself.

Stargazing here is one of the best things to do in Virginia at night. With less light pollution, the stars really shine.

Stay inside the park in one of the lodges right on site so you can spend days exploring what the Blue Ridge and Alleghany Mountains have to offer. You can even camp in the park if you want to experience living as one with the land around you.

Shenandoah National Park has so much beauty and adventure to offer its visitors! Anyone can come to Shenandoah and have a blast. Plus, it is definitely one of the best places to visit in Virginia in the fall !

The Dark Hollow Falls in Shenandoah National Park.

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best Southern road trips . For 469 miles, this twisting mountain road connects Northern Virginia to Southwestern North Carolina. This is one of the attractions in Virginia you cannot miss out on!

There are a ton of cool things to see along the Blue Ridge Parkway from cute mountain towns to historic sites. The nature is stunning at any time of the year but is especially magical during the fall when the foliage turns the forest to fiery colors.

The are many awesome hikes on the Blue Ridge Parkway that will lead to gorgeous waterfalls and other pretty nature scenes. If you do not have time for a hike, there are dozens of amazing Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks that provide stunning panoramic views.

Some of the best stops on the Virginia side of the Parkway include Mabry Mill at milepost 176, Peaks of Otter at milepost 86, and Apple Orchard Mountain at milepost 76.5.

Living in Virginia gives you amazing proximity to so many places! Visiting is second best, of course.

The Blue Ridge Parkway winding through fall forests and foggy mountains.

Chase Waterfalls at Great Falls Park

You will find some of the best waterfalls in Virginia at Great Falls Park on the Potomac River. Though the falls are far from the largest in the state, they are mighty. The short dips create a fantastic white water course for daring kayakers.

If you would rather stay on dry ground, there are easy hiking trails along the river that lead to awesome overlooks. Watch the raging river and admire the cool rock formations. This is one of our favorite things to do in Northern Virginia!

Bring a fishing pole or a picnic lunch to enjoy while you relax and soak in the majesty of nature. This is one of the cool things to do in Virginia with kids since the main trail is easy and accessible.

This park is maintained by the National Park Service and is one of the most beautiful national parks in Virginia .

Sunset over the rugged waterfalls of Great Falls Park with kayakers in the water.

Pay Your Respects at Arlington National Cemetery

A visit to the Arlington National Cemetery is one of the best things to do in Washington D.C. since it is found just outside of the capital city. This 639-acre cemetery is the final resting place of many people dating back to the Civil War.

Pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Then visit the graves of Presidents William Howard Taft and John F. Kennedy. There are many memorials and gardens to check out. This is one of the best Virginia activities for anyone interested in American history.

Though it might be somber, this Arlington attraction is a beautiful place for a stroll. If you visit in spring, you will be greeted with pretty cherry blossoms.

Make sure to check out our Detailed Guide To Cherry Blossoms In DC!

Rows of white gravestones under a blooming, pink tree.

If you are wondering what to do in Virginia, there is an endless list. From beaches to mountains, there is a variety of landscapes to explore. You will find some of the oldest towns and historic sites in the country. This is a state where history was made and presidents made a mark.

There are attractions in Virginia for everyone!

rooftop hotel in Georgetown on a sunny day

sunset over shenandoah national park, one of the best places to visit in virginia vacation spots

15+ Vibrant Places to Visit in Virginia (Best Vacation Spots!)

Looking for the best places to visit in Virginia on your next vacation?

This travel guide has been curated by a local Virginian and is here to help!

With mountains, beaches, cities, small towns, and an enormous array of historical attractions–not to mention a fun and diverse wine country–the best Virginia vacation spots are both varied and exciting.

In Virginia, you can find the homes of founding fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison (no wonder the state is sometimes called the “Mother of Presidents”).

In Jamestown (first populated by Europeans in 1607) and in the famous Colonial Williamsburg, visitors can walk in the footsteps of the USA’s early history.

wild horses on the beach of Chincoteague virginia, one of the best usa small towns to visit

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Alongside these historic sites, Virginia is also home to rich and diverse natural beauty, including Shenandoah National Park, Great Falls National Park, and Assateague National Park.

The state features excellent hiking and cycling trails throughout the many parks, ski resorts in the western mountains in the winter, and beach resorts along the eastern coast in the summer.

No matter what kind of weekend getaway or vacation you’re looking for, one thing is for sure: Virginia has something to offer.

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in Virginia for each place but you could also combine a few of these stops and turn it into a Virginia road trip! You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

Here are the best places to visit in Virginia!

This guide to the best vacation spots in Virginia was written by native Virginian Merry Allison of Virginia Vacation Guide . Thanks for joining us, Merry!

Table of Contents

The Best Cities to Visit in Virginia

National + state parks for your virginia bucket list, more of the best places to visit in virginia.

sign reading "welcome to virginia" along a forested road, a common sight when en route to the best virginia vacation spots

Alexandria (and Mount Vernon)

Alexandria, located in northern Virginia, is home to what is perhaps the most famous attraction in Virginia: Mount Vernon.

The house, which lies near the Potomac River, served as the home of George Washington.

Guided tours will give you an opportunity to learn more about the historic home and the life of the founding father.

Mount Vernon is especially lovely around Christmas when the home is decorated with candles and wreaths for the holidays.

Just north of Mount Vernon is Old Town Alexandria, which is a lovely historic area with a great restaurant and shopping scene.

brick row houses in old town alexandria virginia shaded by trees

Visitors can stroll down King Street, Prince Street, and Duke Street to take in the historic colonial brick houses and shops while stopping at restaurants such as The Majestic and Virtue Feed & Grain, as well as clothing stores and excellent consignment shops such as Bishop Boutique and Current Boutique.

You can also take a walk down to the waterfront for lovely views across the Potomac River.

You can even take a water taxi ride between the following destinations: The Wharf, Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor.

Alexandria is located just south of Washington, D.C. and makes an excellent day trip or weekend getaway from the nation’s capital!

Where to Stay in Alexandria, Virginia

Hilton Alexandria Old Town is a really fantastic option, rooms are huge and really fresh and bright. The onsite restaurant is really great if you don’t want to venture out early for breakfast. It is also right next to the Amtrak and Metro station, perfect for easy access to explore!
StayAPT Suites Fort Belvoir , while a little further off the main spots it is still close enough to access. These are a great budget friendly option if you also prefer self-catering with hotel facilities.

city hall in old town alexandria virginia, one of the best cities on the east coast weekend getaways

Arlington is also located in northern Virginia, just north of Alexandria and right outside of Washington, D.C.

There are a number of metro stations throughout Arlington that allow visitors to easily and quickly travel to many of the major attractions, monuments, and museums in the nation’s capital.

One of the most significant attractions in Arlington is Arlington National Cemetery, which marks the burial site for those who served in the armed forces dating back to the Civil War.

It also includes the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington House, numerous monuments and memorials, and the Memorial Arboretum.

Arlington is also home to a diverse number of lively, walkable neighborhoods, such as Clarendon and Ballston, which have many great restaurants, bars, and shops.

You’ll also find a major shopping center at Pentagon City when visiting Arlington.

Where to Stay in Arlington, Virginia

Crystal Gateway is connected to the airport with the metro system running right by, easy for you to get around Arlington. Facilities are also excellent with really great rooms.
Comfort Inn Ballston is a great budget friendly option. It is that little bit further from a metro station but the hotel offers a free shuttle service, hassle free!

view of tombstones in arlington national cemetery, one of the most interesting places in virginia to visit

Charlottesville (and Monticello)

Cha rlottesvill e is located near the center of the state, about 70 miles west of Richmond and about 100 miles southwest of Northern Virginia.

It has an envious position at the foot of the lovely Shenandoah Mountains in the west.

Charlottesville is most famous as the home of Thomas Jefferson, as well as the school he founded: the University of Virginia.

The main attraction in Charlottesville is Monticello, which was constructed between 1768 and 1809.

front facade of monticello with reflecting pond in the foreground, one of the best places to visit in virginia

Monticello has a distinctive rotunda design, and it sits atop a hill with lovely views of the surrounding countryside.

You can take a guided tour of parts of the home and learn more about the life and times of Jefferson. Not to be missed is an exhibit devoted to Sally Hemings.

The grounds around Monticello are also worth exploring, with lovely gardens and a cemetery.

Another top attraction in Charlottesville is the Downtown Mall, which is a great central hub of restaurants and stores in downtown Charlottesville.

It is an outdoor walking mall featuring brick sidewalks and historic charm. The mall features more than 120 stores and 30 restaurants.

Where to Stay in Charlottesville, Virginia

The English Inn is a lovely homely hotel close to the center of Charlottesville. Despite being called an inn, it has more of large hotel style facilities such as an on site swimming pool and fitness centre
Mountain Retreat is the perfect rural retreat for your Charlottesville stay. Nestled in the Virginia Foothills this cozy cabin is great to escape to after a day exploring. It is also a great base for hiking.

view of charlottesville virginia city from above

Richmond is located near the center of the state, about 100 miles south of Northern Virginia and about 100 miles northwest of Virginia Beach.

It is located close to several major Civil War battlefield sites, including Richmond National Battlefield Park, and makes for an interesting vacation in Virginia for Civil War buffs.

Richmond is also home to many breweries, which have become a major staple of the city in recent years.

Some great breweries to check out include Stone Brewing Tap Room, Main Line Brewery, and Hardywood Park Craft Brewery.

You can also get a sample of some of the best breweries by taking a guided brewery tour .

Where to Stay in Richmond, Virginia

The Commonwealth is a real treat of a place to stay, directly across from the Virginia State Capitol and decorated with art and furniture from Richmond artists.
This Cozy Chic Retreat is a private apartment close to the museums and many historic sites. It is also walking distance to great bars and restaurants, comfortable to drop to your huge comfortable bed after a long day!

skyline of richmond virginia at blue hour, one of the best cities to visit in virginia

Virginia is home to 24 national parks and National Park Service-managed sites, plus over 40 state parks.

These range from Revolutionary War and Civil War battle sites, to natural wonders, and even to a performing arts center.

Some of the main parks include Shenandoah National Park, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Assateague Island National Seashore, Manassas National Battlefield Park, and Colonial National Historical Park.

Here are some of the most striking natural wonders and parks to add to your Virginia bucket list!

Shenandoah National Park

The largest and most famous park in Virginia is Shenandoah National Park, which is located in the western region of the state.

You can enter the park from multiple points along Skyline Drive.

The park is 200,000 acres in size and spans much of the Shenandoah Mountains in the western part of the state.

The famous Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park with Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the south.

stony man cliffs in shenandoah national park virginia

Shenandoah is home to a wide variety of hiking trails, wildlife, gorgeous mountain views, waterfalls, picnic shelters, and more.

The park is perfect for nature lovers, and Shenandoah is even home to black bears!

Some of the most popular hikes in Shenandoah include Marys Rock, Hawksbill Summit, Stony Man, and Bearfence Summit.

With more than 500 miles of hiking trails to explore, Shenandoah National Park is one of the most beloved vacation spots in Virginia for outdoors lovers, and one that you can easily revisit again and again.

Where to Stay in Shenandoah National Park

This Loft Deck in Elkton has incredible panoramic views of Shenandoah, each room has huge windows and there is a beautiful deck to sit out under the stars. It is perfectly located for hiking, you can even plan your route from looking out over the views!
The Inn & Tavern at Meander is an adorable historic 18th-century inn in the town of Locust Dale. Rooms are wistfully colonial and there is a beautiful garden to enjoy and relax under the trees. The restaurant is worth a trip alone!

Great Falls Park

Located near the Potomac River, Great Falls Park is one of the most beautiful places in Virginia and features a stunning series of rapids and falls that visitors can see from 3 overlooks.

Two of the overlooks are wheelchair and stroller-accessible, and each of the overlooks is a five to ten-minute walk from the Visitor’s Center.

Along with the rapids, there are several hiking trails to enjoy in the park, perfect for admiring Mather Gorge, the rapids, and more.

Other amenities at Great Falls include a picnic table area, grills, and a snack bar (open seasonally).

Where to Stay in Great Falls Park

Castle on the River , while it is pricey I can’t resist this decadent castle-style homestay. Rooms are huge, stylish and bright, and the hotel amenities are as close as you’ll get to the Golden Age. Indulge here and you won’t regret it!
Embassy Suites is a more budget-friendly option but no less stylish and comfortable. There is also an on-site swimming pool and excellent cooked to order breakfasts available.

rapids of great falls park as seen from overlook

Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge is one of the most stunning, can’t-miss attractions in Virginia.

It is a natural limestone gorge arch structure that is in the shape of a bridge.

Virginia’s Natural Bridge spans an immense 215 feet tall and is an absolutely incredible sight.

In addition to the bridge itself, Natural Bridge State Park also includes lovely forests and meadows, as well as 7 miles of hiking trails.

The Cedar Creek Trail features a stop at the Monacan Indian Village as well as the 30-foot-tall Lace Falls.

Where to Stay in Natural Bridge State Park

The only natural choice is the Natural Bridge Hotel , located within the grounds of the park. The hotel is beautiful and rooms all offer views of the stunning scenery.

natural bridge rock formation at sunset, one of the most unique virginia vacation spots

Chincoteague

Anyone who has fond memories of reading the Misty of Chincoteague book series growing up will be eager to add Chincoteague and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge to their list of unique places to visit in Virginia.

While you’re there, in addition to admiring the horses, be sure to also head over to nearby Assateague Island to climb the Assateague Lighthouse, stop by the Museum of Chincoteague, and of course, spend plenty of time on the beach.

If you visit in late July, be sure to check the dates for the annual pony swim and attend if you can.

Where to Stay in Chincoteague

The Inn on Main is a great option for Chincoteague. Set as a beautiful resort with a swimming pool, hot tub, and even a BBQ area. Rooms are retro but well cared for and comfortable.
The Chincoteague Island Bayfront Resort is also another great option, as the name suggests the hotel is right on the shore and rooms provide beachfront views and the sound of the waves from your bed.

brunette woman sitting on a beach in virginia with wild horses in the distance

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach may be a city, rather than a park, but it’s best known for its natural VA attraction: the beach!

Located in the southeastern part of Virginia, Virginia Beach is most famous as a beach destination that is particularly popular during the hot summer months.

Visitors can enjoy the beaches along the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the top attractions in the area is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which features a 3-mile path for walking, biking, and rollerblading; live entertainment during the summer; restaurants; and shops.

There is also a 24-foot-tall statue of King Neptune.

Other top attractions in Virginia Beach include the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center and the Cape Henry Lighthouse.

Where to Stay in Virginia Beach

Coastal Hotel and Suites is a great option right on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, the facilities are fabulous and some of the suites even come with their own terrace with hot tub, perfect for relaxing in privacy while overlooking the beach
Another great choice is the Courtyard Virginia Beach , which is also on the boardwalk. There are both indoor and outdoor pools if you prefer the pool to the ocean, and every room is guaranteed an ocean view!

fishing pier in virginia beach va at sunrise

Nestled in the western mountains of Virginia, the town of Luray is most famously known for the caverns of the same name.

A ticket to see the stunning Luray Caverns will also gain you admission to the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction.

There are a surprisingly large amount of other attractions in the comparatively small town.

Make sure to check out The Garden Maze at Luray Caverns, which is the largest in the mid-Atlantic states! It features eight-foot tall hedges on one acre of land.

Other major attractions in and near Luray to add to your VA bucket list include Rope Adventure Park, Shenandoah National Park, the Luray Singing Tower, and the Luray-Hawksbill Greenway.

Where to Stay in Luray

Hotel Laurance is a superb place to stay for your trip to Luray. Delightfully colonial touches yet incredibly modern, it promises the celebrity treatment!
The Mimslyn Inn is another fantastic option within a beautiful old mansion house, complete with sunroom and garden pergolas. The onsite restaurant is also really excellent and worth staying in for.

stalactites and stalagmites in luray caverns virginia with a paved path leading through the formations

From historical attractions to wineries, these interesting places in Virginia are well worth a visit.

Colonial Williamsburg

Williamsburg is located in the tidewater region in southeast Virginia and is famously the site of Colonial Williamsburg.

Visitors can walk through the historic town dating back to the 18th century, which includes guided tours of the Governor’s Palace and Wythe House; arts and crafts demonstrations; lovely gardens to explore; and farm animals such as chickens, sheep, and horses.

You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town, enjoy a play, and even attend an evening haunted house tour with stories dating back centuries.

Colonial Williamsburg is part of the historic triangle that also includes nearby Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown.

Where to Stay in Colonial Williamsburg

There are some great options in the area and many are really well located for the attractions. We do have some favorites which are also great spots for Jamestown and Yorktown.

Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel is set in the woods, as the name suggests! It is just 100m from the Williamsburg Visitor Center and is a peaceful spot close to all the best spots in town.
Westgate Williamsburg Resort is a historic site in the heart of the town, it is close to Busch Gardens, and a great area for shopping and dining.

Horse and carriage in colonial Williamsburg that is moving away from the camera on a paved road

Jamestown marks the site of the early 17th-century settlement in Virginia from England.

The site includes a fantastic museum about the history of the land and its people.

There is also an excellent replica of some of the buildings that existed at the original settlement that visitors can walk through, including a schoolhouse, homes, and a blacksmith.

Nearby there are also replica ships of the original English ships that journeyed there over 300 years ago.

historic reenactment blacksmith shop in jamestown, one of the best virginia bucket list destinations for history lovers

Yorktown is a charming town nearby that is also worth a visit.

It is home to the Museum of the American Revolution, Yorktown Battlefield, and the Watermen’s Museum.

The region has much more than just history to offer. Adventure lovers can also visit the amusement park Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

There are also several wineries in the area, including the Williamsburg Winery and New Kent Winery.

Market Square, which is within walking distance to Colonial Williamsburg, also boasts excellent restaurants such as the Amber Ox, The Cheese Shoppe, and Blue Talon Bistro.

Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown can be easily combined into one history-focused weekend getaway in Virginia.

antique cannon in yorktown virginia with historical buildings in the background

The Many Wineries of Virginia

The state of Virginia is home to over 300 wineries , and a vineyard-focused vacation in Virginia makes for a fun romantic getaway or trip with friends.

Almost every region of the state features a large number of wineries, many of which are located near each other and can be easily visited by either car or guided tour.

Here are a few wine regions in Virginia to consider!

vineyard in virginia with 2 horses in the foreground and grape vines in the background

Northern Virginia Wineries

Northern Virginia has a large number of wineries located within just an hour’s drive from Fairfax County.

Many of the wineries are located in the nearby counties of Loudoun, Fauquier, and Warren.

Visiting Loudoun County will give you the chance to visit wineries such as Stone Tower Winery, while the historic town of Middleburg features the wineries Cana Vineyards and Winery of Middleburg and Greenhill Winery and Vineyards.

Other notable wineries in the region include Paradise Springs Winery, Grey Ghost Vineyards, and Narmada Winery.

Where to Stay for the Northern Virginia Wineries

For groups this cabin is a fabulous option, it sleeps up to 6 people and is nestled in a quiet part of Leesburg. The deck is perfect for enjoying the wine you bring home with you from the wineries! It is also available for couples if you prefer to have the space all to yourself
Lansdown Resort & Spa is for those who want the hotel resort experience after their day of wine tasting. With a 45-hole golf course and a luxury spa you are well equipped for a great few days in the region.

close up of grapes growing at a vineyard

Charlottesville Area Wineries

Charlottesville is also home to a large number of excellent wineries, including some with famous roots.

Jefferson Vineyard is located at the site where the founding father originally tried to cultivate grapes and produce wine in the state.

Blenheim Vineyards is owned by famous Charlottesville resident Dave Matthews of Dave Matthews Band fame.

Barboursville Vineyard is the largest vineyard in Virginia, and it has noteworthy ruins that you can visit nearby.

If a mixture of wine tastings, history, and culture is what you’re looking for on your next Virginia vacation, Charlottesville and its surrounding wineries are one of the best places to visit in VA.

Where to Stay in Charlottesville

Quirk Hotel: As a Hyatt hotel this has all the luxuries and amenities to be expected from Hyatt. Rooms are fresh and bright and it is really well located in Charlottesville.
Keswick Hall: For some seriously stunning luxury this is the perfect choice for Charlottesville, while not quite budget friendly it is absolutely worth the splurge. The hotel is a sprawling estate in manicured grounds, there is a swimming pool, health club and incredible restaurants.

4 photos of beautiful places in VA, lighthouse, farm, jamestown, foliage. red and black text reads "virginia bucket list"

Virginia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Virginia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

There are numerous ways to experience Virginia, a state with so much to offer travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, outdoor adventurer or foodie, there’s something for you in the Old Dominion.

The state is easy to navigate and gorgeous to drive through, making it perfect for road trips.

In fact, the Blue Ridge Parkway, running from Shenandoah National Park through the Great Smokey Mountains National Park in North Carolina, is known as “America’s Favorite Drive” for its easy views and roadside destinations.

However you choose to explore Virginia, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re looking to venture into Virginia during a trip to Washington, DC, you’ll find that there’s a ton of things to see in Northern Virginia.

Right over the Potomac River is Old Town Alexandria, a gorgeous colonial district that will transport you back in time 250 years. Walk the cobblestone streets, cruise the river or shop some of the local boutiques.

A few miles away, you can visit the historic Manassas National Battlefield, the site of two major American Civil War battles. Take a guided tour with a local historian or just go for a hike on one of the park’s many trails.

Of course, any Virginia tourism guide will encourage you to check out the state’s gorgeous Eastern Shore getaways and Atlantic beaches.

The state’s beaches offer tons of great opportunities to put your toes in the sand and catch some rays, as well as several other unique opportunities you’ll only find in Virginia.

In Cape Charles, you can kayak out to a former World War II cargo ship that’s now a haven for birds and dolphins.

And at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, you can see wild horses roam the shores. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera along!

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Virginia in the United States.

Note: This ultimate Virginia guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Virginia Map

Use this Virginia tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Virginia Travel Guide Destinations

Looking for the best Virginia tourist attractions and places to visit? These posts can help!

Virginia travel guide to the Eastern Shore including hang-gliding

How To Have An Incredible Time Visiting Virginia’s Eastern Shore

Richmond has loads of Virginia tourist attractions

5 Ecotourism Destinations In Richmond, Virginia

Virginia visitor's guide to Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach Travel Tips For Exploring Beyond The Sand

Best Virginia Tours

Explore local culture with a Virginia tour guide through these unique excursions:

Spirit of Norfolk Dinner Cruise on the Elizabeth River (Norfolk, Virginia)
The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour (Williamsburg, Virginia)
Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours (Virginia Beach, Virginia)
Mountain Biking Adventure on Narrowback Mountain (Richmond, Virginia)
Richmond’s Street Art Segway Tour (Richmond, Virginia)
Virginia Beach Surf Lessons (Virginia Beach, Virginia)

Renting A Car In Virginia

Need a rental car for your Virginia trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Public Transportation In Virginia

Getting around Virginia by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! You can use this tool for all of your public transportation needs when traveling around Virginia.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Virginia Hotels

Click here to browse the best Virginia travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local properties:

Virginia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Virginia tour. When visiting Virginia — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Virginia travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Virginia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Virginia .

Q: Where do people vacation in Virginia?

Virginia is home to several unique vacation destinations.

Williamsburg , located in southeast Virginia, is a top spot for history lovers and families. The town and surrounding area are home to several historic sites that give visitors a taste of Colonial American life, such as Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown.

Beyond the historic towns, reenactments and battlefields, you’ll find popular amusement park Busch Gardens Williamsburg and top water park Water Country USA. Both of these parks are favorites of thrill-seekers young and old.

The area also has tons of great parks and waterfronts perfect for hiking and kayaking.

In the summer months, you can catch some rays and relax on Virginia Beach , the state’s top beach destination.

This lively area boats a classic boardwalk lined with hotels, restaurants, and shops that offers easy access to the shore.

The beach’s popularity can make it fairly crowded, so head down the shore to Sandbridge Beach if you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet.

Want to get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife?

You’ll spot tons of gorgeous birds and marine mammals at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the next-door False Creek State Park just a few miles down the island.

However you choose to enjoy Virginia Beach, you’re bound to have a great time.

Another popular spot for those looking for outdoor adventures is Shenandoah National Park, located in western Virginia .

This park boasts 200,000 acres of protected land and is particularly gorgeous during the fall foliage months. With 500 miles of hiking trails, there are so many ways to explore this gorgeous park any time of year.

And if you need a break from the great outdoors, check out the Charlottesville .

Here, you can visit Monticello, home of Founding Father Thomas Jefferson, or just take a stroll around the campus of the University of Virginia.

Q: When is the best time to visit Virginia?

Late spring through early fall is probably the best time to visit Virginia. You’ll encounter mild, pleasant weather in the spring and fall and higher temps and humidity in the summer.

The summer months can also bring strong thunderstorms, so keep an eye on the weather during your trip. October is probably also the best time to experience the fall foliage in all its glory.

Q: How much money do you need for a trip to Virginia?

The average traveler spends about $134 USD per day on transportation, accommodations, food, activities, and other travel expenses in Virginia.

This number can vary depending on your itinerary as some destinations are less expensive than others.

Q: How many days do you need in Virginia?

You can see a fair amount of Virginia over a three-day weekend, particularly if you have a car.

The state’s major destinations and attractions aren’t too far apart from each other, making it easy to see a lot in a short amount of time.

You may want to tack on a few extra days if you’re planning on visiting Williamsburg and Virginia Beach, as these destinations have several all-day attractions you won’t want to miss.

Q: What are the best things to do in Virginia?

No USA trip would be complete without visiting Virginia, and here’s why:

Virginia is a top destination for historical tourism — and for good reason! Some of the best examples and recreations of Colonial American life are on display at Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown.

At Colonial Williamsburg , you can tour original 18th-century buildings, watch costumed interpreters demonstrate folk arts and crafts, and learn more about how the United States became a country.

Jamestown is home to the first British settlement in North America, and while only some of the original foundations of those first buildings remain, you can explore several recreations of 17th-century settlements and ships.

Virginia is also home to several important battlefields of the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, including Yorktown Battlefield and Manassas Battlefield . Today, these battlefields act as both important historic sites and nature preserves that are definitely worth exploring.

Speaking of nature, there are plenty of ways to explore the great outdoors in the state of Virginia.

The Blue Ridge Mountains , a stretch of the Appalachian Mountains that run from Northern Georgia to Northern Virginia, is a gorgeous and iconic escape for anyone looking for a little fresh air.

The mountains are one of the highlights of Shenandoah National Park , one of the state’s top attractions. They’re perfect for hiking, fishing, canoeing, birding, and even skiing in the wintertime. If you’re big on outdoor activities, you won’t want to miss this area.

Visiting in the summer time? Head down to one of the state’s beach and waterfront destinations for a little fun in the sun.

Virginia Beach is probably the state’s most popular shoreline, offering tons of great spots to eat, stay, and play along the beach.

If you ever read (and loved) Misty of Chincoteague as a kid, you’ll definitely want to visit Assateague Island and see the wild horses of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge run along the white sand beaches. Further north, you can enjoy some of the beaches on the Chesapeake Bay .

Norfolk is a top destination for fans of the bay, boasting several gorgeous beaches and plenty of great restaurants and breweries to enjoy.

Q: Where is Virginia?

Virginia is located in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern regions of the United States.

It shares borders with the US states of Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, and West Virginia. It also shares a border with Washington DC — which is not technically a US State — and the Atlantic Ocean.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Virginia?

Credit cards — mainly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Virginia. That being said, it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Virginia?

Yes, you can drink the tap water in Virginia.

Q: What is the local currency in Virginia?

The local currency in Texas is the US Dollar (USD).

What would you add to this Virginia travel guide?

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THINGS TO DO IN VIRGINIA BEACH

Expand your horizons and discover your best self here in Virginia Beach. Whether you’re looking for playgrounds and mini golf or nightlife and brewery tours, pet-friendly attractions or paddling tours, you’ll find new things to love and great ways to connect in our welcoming destination.

Year Round Fun

No matter the time of year, there is always fun to be had in Virginia Beach. Explore what our seasons have to offer to see how you can Live the Life in Virginia Beach.

Virginia Beach Attractions

Frequently asked questions about virginia beach.

What are some of the popular attractions in Virginia Beach?

Rudee Inlet
Virginia Beach Aquarium
Atlantic Fun Park
Cape Henry Light House

What are the best things to do with kids in Virginia Beach?

Military Aviation Museum
First Landing State Park
Virginia Aquarium
Grommet Island
Ocean Breeze Waterpark

What is there to do at Virginia Boardwalk?

Play at Grommet Island Park
Visit the Atlantic Wildfowl Museum
Visit the Surf and Rescue Museum
Take a picture with the King Neptune Statue
Dine at one of the Boardwalk Restaurants

What is there to do in the summer in Virginia Beach?

Find your perfect beach
Enjoy must-see works of art
Stand-up paddleboard
Beach bike trails

How do I get to Virginia Beach?

Getting to Virginia Beach is a breeze! Click below to learn about the different ways to get to Virginia Beach to Live the Life.

What is the easiest way to travel once in Virginia Beach?

Whether you’re looking for a quick ride to some of the city’s most popular attractions, alternative transportation to the Oceanfront or searching for the best available parking spots, we’ve got you covered!

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The Ultimate List of Historical Things to Do in Virginia

By: Author Katie

Posted on Published: July 21, 2022 - Last updated: June 30, 2023

Looking for a list of historical things to do in Virginia? Look no further! Here are some of the most popular historical sites and attractions in the state. They range from the early days of Jamestown to the more recent history of George Washington’s office. There’s something for everyone on this list!

1. mount vernon, 2. historic jamestown, 3. monticello, 4. colonial williamsburg, 5. the virginia state capitol, 6. yorktown, 7. stratford hall, 8. montpelier, 9. james monroe’s highland, 10. the crooked road, 11. appomattox, 12. cape henry lighthouse, 13. crystal spring pump station, 14. st. john’s church, 15. arlington national cemetery, 16. edgar allan poe museum, 17. yorktown windmill, 18. luray caverns, you’ll also love.

Mount Vernon is the most popular tourist destination in Virginia and one of the most popular in all of America. George Washington lived here from 1754-1799.. He added on to the original house and made many changes to make it more comfortable. You can see how people lived back then by looking at the well-lit rooms that are bright in color compared to most historic homes which tended toward dark colors because they were difficult to see in sunlight.

There is also a lot of history on the grounds which you can explore through a variety of activities.You can even visit his grave site at the public national cemetery on the plantation!

If you’re looking for an interesting day trip while in Virginia, MOUNT VERNON should definitely be your top pick!

Jamestowne is the site of the first permanent English colony in America. Located just a few miles away from Yorktown, it’s another important part of the Historic Triangle. Here you can find archaeological excavations ongoing at Jamestowne, with periodic tours available throughout the day to take you past the dig sites as guides explain findings and their historical significance.

Monticello is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia and for good reason. The estate was the lifelong project of Thomas Jefferson and it’s an amazing sight to behold. Jefferson spent many years living at Monticello and he considered it his personal achievement.

Today, visitors can wander the grounds, tour the home and pay their respects to Jefferson’s final resting place on top of Monticello. The views from the estate are fantastic and it makes for a great place to relax or spend time with your family. If you’re interested in history, then be sure to check out the ruins of the original Monticello while you’re there!

Colonial Williamsburg is an important place in American history. This historic destination is located in Virginia and is filled with period actors who play the role of everyday townspeople, shopkeepers, tradespeople, and political figures of the Colonial era. “DoG Street” is a great place to find restaurants, shops, and upscale accommodations within the grounds of this living history museum – all easily accessible!

There are a lot of historical sites at Colonial Williamsburg that tourists can enjoy such as haunted houses and carriage rides. Be sure to check their website for updated events and shows!

The Virginia State Capitol is a beautiful building that was first occupied by the legislature in 1788. The Capitol offers self-guided tours seven days a week, and guided tours are available for groups of ten or more with an appointment. The Capitol is fully handicapped accessible, and there are many other tourist attractions nearby in Washington D.C.

Yorktown is a historic site, home to the Siege of Yorktown and George Washington’s victory. The museum includes a restored battlefield and siege lines, which are open during the summer months.

Yorktown also has a new American Revolution Museum. The walk through exhibits is an excellent way to learn about daily life for civilians and soldiers in 1781 and how medicine has changed since then.

When you visit Stratford Hall in Virginia, you’ll be able to explore a wealth of history. For example, this is the birthplace of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Plus, the architecture from the Colonial era is simply incredible. If that’s not enough, there are also several museums on-site for visitors to enjoy.

Leashed pets are allowed at Stratford Hall, but they must be accompanied by responsible owners at all times.

If you’re looking for a historical place to visit in Virginia, look no further than Montpelier. This estate is the home of James Madison, the Father of the Constitution and Architect of the Bill of Rights. Tours are available for visitors for a small fee, and there’s plenty to enjoy outdoors as well. The formal gardens and trails make Montpelier a great place to spend an afternoon with your leashed pet.

Monroe’s home was originally built in 1793, and today visitors can tour the property and learn about his life and career. The site features exhibits on James Madison, as well as 10-minute video presentations on the crossing of the Delaware River and the Louisiana Purchase. There is also a self-guided audio tour available.

The gardens at James Monroe’s Highland are beautiful, and provide a perfect spot for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. The estate was eventually sold to William & Mary College, but thanks to the efforts of the Monroe Foundation, it has been preserved and is now open to the public.

The Crooked Road is a 300 mile scenic trail in Southwest Virginia that winds over the migration routes used by European settlers as they moved south during the late 18th century.

The Crooked Road offers fun live music performances and plenty of opportunities to experience Virginia’s rich history and culture. So if you’re looking for an interesting and unique way to spend your vacation, be sure to check out The Crooked Road!

The Appomattox Court House and National Historical Park was where the Civil War ended in 1865, but also where Lee surrendered his army. The surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia in 1865 signaled the end of a civil war.

It’s easy to see why this location is so important–it’s where General Lee and General Grant signed terms of the surrender, concluding the most brutal chapter in American history.

Today, visitors can take a Ranger-led guided program or hear about the Surrender from an historian at Appomattox Court House.

There’s also a new film shown at the theater which provides more information about what happened there. The park has a lot of hiking trails, as well as nature and history walks for visitors to enjoy.

It’s located in Virginia Beach and was constructed as part of America’s first federal project.

This light house has been standing since 1792. Not only does it offer stunning views, but it’s also a great place to learn about American history.

The Crystal Spring Pump Station is a historic site located in Roanoke, Virginia. It was built in the late 1800s and used to pump water into downtown Roanoke. The museum is open to the public from Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, and offers information on how to schedule a visit with the Smithsonian.

Crystal Spring Pump Station is definitely worth visiting if you’re ever in Times Square New York!

If you’re interested in history, St. John’s Church is definitely worth a visit! This church has quite the interesting past–it was visited by some of the most famous Americans including Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Patrick Henry. In fact, it’s known as the place where the revolution against Great Britain was decided upon during Patrick Henry’s “Give me Liberty or give me death” speech in 1775.

These days, you can take a liberty of death tour through 9 actors portraying the second Virginia Convention in 1776 at St John’s Church. The tour lasts 30 minutes and sometimes they hold special events too. Plus, this church is centrally located on Main Street so it’s easy to find!

So if you’re looking for an interesting historical site to explore, be sure to check out St. John’s Church!

The Arlington National Cemetery is a beautiful and solemn place to visit. Established in 1864, it is the final resting place for soldiers and nurses who died serving their country. It is also the final resting place of President John F Kennedy, his wife Jackie Kennedy, and their two children.

Tours are available at the cemetery, as well as changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is an honor to be buried here at Arlington National Cemetery. In 2013 Congress passed a law to spend $84 million on planning, design, and construction of new graves.

The Edgar Allan Poe Museum is a great place to learn about the life and work of one of America’s most famous authors. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday-Saturday and 11 am to 5 pm on Sundays.

The museum grounds are inspired by a famous poem about the author’s hometown of Richmond, Virginia. The poem was written by Poe himself in 1849 and called “To Helen.”

Poe spent his childhood in Richmond and returned there often throughout his life. The museum has a lot of interesting historical artifacts for visitors to explore!

The Yorktown Windmill was built in 1711 and is one of the oldest sites in Yorktown, Virginia. The mill not only produced flour, but it was a guidepost for travelers on the York River. It appears in many paintings from George Washington’s campaign at Yorktown, including Washington and his Generals at Yorktown by John Trumbull from 1784.

If you’re looking for a unique tourist attraction in Virginia, be sure to check out Luray Caverns. This cave system is home to some of the most impressive calcite formations in the state, including the Titania’s Veil. Visitors can explore the caverns on guided tours, or take a break from sightseeing at the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum or Luray Valley Museum.

Whether you’re interested in the early days of colonization or the more recent history of the United States, Virginia has something to offer. Be sure to check out some of these historical sites and attractions the next time you’re in the state!

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9 Most Scenic Small Towns In Virginia

Between the pristine Atlantic coast beaches to the east and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountain peaks to the west, Virginia has much to offer adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Old Dominion is home to charming, little-known locations that do not get the hype they deserve. From serene seaside escapes and hidden historical hamlets to picturesque alpine villages, these cute towns showcase a unique side of the state not many get to experience, promising exciting experiences for all types of preferences.

Whether a thrill seeker, culinary connoisseur, culture vulture, or history lover, the region’s rich diversity ensures there is something to interest everyone. Furthermore, these charming towns in Virginia are an ideal escape from the bustle of city life, presenting a relaxed rural atmosphere without crowds and plenty of outdoor opportunities. If you are up for an unforgettable experience on the East Coast, remember to include these beautiful Virginia towns on your itinerary.

Cape Charles

Cape Charles is a laidback Chesapeake Bay town with a small population and many quiet open spaces, making it an excellent retreat for those looking to escape their daily routine. It is home to the Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve, where locals and visitors alike go to find solitude. This beautiful outdoor space features a long boardwalk cutting through diverse natural habitats, perfect for a stress-free walk.

Cape Charles is famous for its colorful history, which is best experienced with a stroll through the Cape Charles Historic District. This quaint neighborhood has a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, boasting over 500 historical buildings, with some dating back to the 19th century. Cape Charles charms visitors with a bustling arts scene showcasing beautiful local and regional art in venues like Ellen Moore Gallery and Local-ISH Art.

College towns have always had a unique flair, and this is no different about Lexington! Home to the Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute, the town hosts an enviable cluster of museums, promising visitors an exciting trip down memory lane. The Jackson House Museum offers a peek into 19th-century Lexington in the historic home of a former Confederate general, whereas the VMI Museum chronicles the history of America’s oldest state-funded military college through a vast collection of artifacts.

Lexington has generous outdoor opportunities for the extroverted traveler, and one of the best ways to explore the town is by booking an easygoing horseback ride with the Lexington Carriage Company. This takes you through the historic downtown, with insightful commentary from a resourceful guide. Before leaving the town, remember to sample its impressive craft brewery scene with a tour of Heliotrope Brewery.

St Lukes' Church in Smithfield, Virginia.

Smithfield traces its storied beginnings to the mid-1700s when it was once a bustling shipping hub. Today, however, it is more famous for ham curing and production. A collection of 18th and 19th-century structures in its historic downtown bears witness to its longstanding heritage, with noteworthy venues like the 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse and St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum deserving a visit. However, for a comprehensive perspective of Smithfield’s history, the Isle of Wight County Museum houses an interesting collection of interactive exhibits chronicling the region’s past.

Beyond its history, Smithfield entices outdoor lovers with the sprawling Windsor Castle Park, a remarkable riverside oasis with several miles of walking trails, quaint picnic spots, a boat launch, and a fishing pier.

The famous White Mill in Abingdon, Virginia

Set in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Abingdon's unique appeal comes from a combination of artsy vibe, historical heritage, and exquisite outdoor recreation. This small Washington County village harbors a slew of art centers, but Barter Theater is easily its crowning jewel. Famous for being the country's longest-tenured professional theater, the venue continues entertaining visitors with diverse stage performances. History lovers will fancy a stroll through historic downtown Abingdon, harboring delights like the Historic Society of Washington County. This fantastic facility uses the region’s genealogical records to tell the story of people and places.

Meanwhile, Abingdon’s beautiful outdoors is best explored along the Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail. Stretching nearly 35 miles from Abingdon to Whitetop, the multi-purpose route welcomes runners, hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders to discover the town’s wilderness.

Staunton is perhaps best known for being the birthtown of America’s 28th president, Woodrow Wilson . Tourists can check out the exact site where the former leader was born at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, which also preserves his legacy through different artifacts, such as typed and handwritten letters. But there is more to Staunton than its presidential history, and art enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the R.R. Smith Center for History and Art. The facility features galleries, archives, a garden, conference spaces, and classes.

The Frontier Culture Museum is another worthy stop in the town, delivering a mix of history, art, and the outdoors. Covering 200 acres of space, it is the largest open-air museum in the region, with historic exhibits like traditional structures from Africa, Europe, and America.

One of the oldest towns in Virginia, Onancock’s legacy dates back to 1680 when it was established. Travelers interested in the town’s history can visit the Eastern Shore Watermen’s Museum and Research Center for a look into its maritime heritage. The site showcases a fascinating portfolio of old photographs, artifacts, and nautical equipment. One of the best experiences in town involves riding on the Tangier-Onancock Ferry, which operates between Onancock and Tangier Island. The ride lasts about an hour and features beautiful water views and the opportunity to interact with locals and other tourists.

Onancock’s art scene is no slouch, as evidenced by the impressive number of art centers across the town. As visual art enthusiasts admire award-winning folk art inside Danny Doughty Gallery, lovers of performance arts enjoy family-friendly stage shows at North Street Playhouse.

Seven Bends State Park near Woodstock, Virginia

This quaint community along the Shenandoah River delights visitors with a laid-back atmosphere and a wealth of attractions. While it has something to address all types of interests, outdoor explorers will naturally gravitate towards Seven Bends State Park. The area features scenic hiking and biking trails through a wooded section and fun recreation opportunities along the Shenandoah River , such as fishing, kayaking, and boating. Woodstock has gone through landmark events in its history, a rich legacy that tourists can experience with a tour of the Woodstock Museum.

Meanwhile, a couple of art venues allow connoisseurs to explore the local art scene, including the Shenandoah Museum of Contemporary Art and the Art Spot, which are better suited for DIY art lovers. After a long day of exploration, remember to restock with wholesome American fare at Spring House Tavern.

For a small of just about 1,500 residents, Kilmarnock will impress any newcomer with its rich mix of attractions. The quaint town sits near the Rappahannock River mouth and provides a range of green spaces ideal for nature lovers. Among them is the Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve, a 204-acre park housing diverse habitats and outdoor opportunities like hiking, bird watching, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and more. Those curious about the town’s heritage can check out Kilmarnock Museum, which honors the region’s rich history and unique traditions through a variety of exhibits.

Antique collectors and treasure hunters can speculate for unique finds at Kilmarnock Antique Gallery, home to more than 100 dealers and an awesome oyster plate collection. Finally, take the time to peruse local art inside Patty Richards Art before leaving the town.

Chincoteague

If relaxed coastal getaways define your idea of an ideal vacation, consider booking a trip to Chincoteague . This island's location on Virginia’s Eastern Shore charms all with an easygoing beach scenery, best exemplified by the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Housing a mixture of marshes, beaches, dunes, and maritime forests, this natural oasis offers the perfect escape from crowds, with an opportunity to watch the area’s wildlife. Chincoteague is a remarkable family holiday destination thanks to Maui Jack’s Waterpark. Here, kids and adults alike converge to enjoy unadulterated aquatic fun, featuring waterslides and swimming pools.

For the indoor inclined, visiting Captain Timothy Hill House offers an avenue into the history of the island town. The structure was constructed in the 1800s. Alternatively, you can stop by the Chincoteague Island Library to learn interesting facts about the town.

The Takeaway

The Old Dominion presents one of the best vacation experiences on the East Coast, and these small towns in Virginia are proof of just how much travelers can expect. The state’s rich history, diverse natural landscapes, unique culture, and outdoor opportunities ensure that there are enough attractions to keep all types of travelers engaged and entertained. Whether traveling on a solo trip, vacationing as a couple, or holidaying with family, there is no limit to the level of fun you can expect in small-town Virginia.

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Wealth of Geeks

24 Things To Do in Virginia Beach Beyond the Sand

Posted: January 13, 2024 | Last updated: January 13, 2024

<p>Locals nicknamed it “<em>Vah Beach</em>,” and anyone who calls it Virginia Beach is undoubtedly a tourist. If you want to experience the city like a local, you’ve got to get beyond the sand. Many tourists don’t realize Virginia Beach is an eclectic city offering five distinct districts to explore. Go beyond the oceanfront and experience the city like a VBer with these 24 things to do in Virginia Beach beyond the sand. </p> <p>It’s a city where the preferred mode of transportation is a skateboard, you always hear military jets overhead, and fish tacos are the street food of choice. There’s an attraction named Mt. Trashmore (yes, that’s a real place), and Neptune is the city’s mascot. That’s your quick introduction to the quirky side of <a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/amusement-parks-in-virginia/">Virginia</a> Beach, but you’ll have to trust us that it’s an Atlantic Ocean city worth visiting. There’s a never-ending number of attractions to enjoy, which are the must-dos. </p>

Locals nicknamed it “ Vah Beach ,” and anyone who calls it Virginia Beach is undoubtedly a tourist. If you want to experience the city like a local, you’ve got to get beyond the sand. Many tourists don’t realize Virginia Beach is an eclectic city offering five distinct districts to explore. Go beyond the oceanfront and experience the city like a VBer with these 24 things to do in Virginia Beach beyond the sand.

It’s a city where the preferred mode of transportation is a skateboard, you always hear military jets overhead, and fish tacos are the street food of choice. There’s an attraction named Mt. Trashmore (yes, that’s a real place), and Neptune is the city’s mascot. That’s your quick introduction to the quirky side of Virginia Beach, but you’ll have to trust us that it’s an Atlantic Ocean city worth visiting. There’s a never-ending number of attractions to enjoy, which are the must-dos.

<p><span>Virginia is renowned for its rich culinary tradition, with a delightful array of southern-style dishes. From succulent oysters and crunchy peanuts to mouthwatering BBQ and the distinctive flavor of country ham, these delectable offerings have become synonymous with Virginia’s cuisine. </span></p>

24 Best Things To Do in Virginia Beach

Five districts in the city extend beyond the oceanfront: Pungo, Town Center, Vibe District Sandbridge, and Chesapeake Bay. Pungo is where to find the local farms; Town Center offers upscale lifestyle areas with shopping and dining. Sandbridge has wildlife preservation areas; Vibe District is where all of the art lives, and, last but not least, Chesapeake Bay offers calm waters with bridge views.

The districts complement each other and comprise the city of Virginia Beach. You can plan your beach vacation itinerary in just one area of Virginia Beach or use the districts to see even more. Decide on several Virginia Beach attractions that interest you. You can easily add one per day, in addition to relaxing on the beach. Some of the attractions are even within walking distance from the oceanfront hotels.

<p>When you visit the Virginia Aquarium, enter a world of wonder and enchantment. It’s home to hundreds of species; you’ll learn something new every visit. Get up close and personal with animals and animal educators to learn more about the underwater world. Check out the Guest Quests at the Virginia Aquarium, which are little interactive games that allow young tourists to explore everything the aquarium offers—like an educational scavenger hunt!</p>

1. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

When you visit the Virginia Aquarium, enter a world of wonder and enchantment. It’s home to hundreds of species; you’ll learn something new every visit. Get up close and personal with animals and animal educators to learn more about the underwater world. Check out the Guest Quests at the Virginia Aquarium, which are little interactive games that allow young tourists to explore everything the aquarium offers—like an educational scavenger hunt!

<p>Yet another great offering from the Virginia Aquarium, <a href="https://myadventurepark.com/location/virginia-beach-va/" rel="noopener">The Adventure Park</a>, offers aerial excitement for kids. It’s the best Virginia Beach attraction for kids who want a birds-eye view on the ropes course and tree-to-tree zip lining. They offer low-ropes and high-ropes courses so kids of all ages can participate without fear. It’s located at the aquarium, so you can double up on things to do with one trip!</p>

2. Adventure Park at the Virginia Aquarium

Yet another great offering from the Virginia Aquarium, The Adventure Park , offers aerial excitement for kids. It’s the best Virginia Beach attraction for kids who want a birds-eye view on the ropes course and tree-to-tree zip lining. They offer low-ropes and high-ropes courses so kids of all ages can participate without fear. It’s located at the aquarium, so you can double up on things to do with one trip!

<p>There’s nothing more magnificent than seeing the beauty of a whale with your own two eyes. Take the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a whale by booking a <a href="https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/things-to-do/boat-tours" rel="nofollow noopener">Whale Watching Tour</a>. Join a marine educator to learn about humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, seabirds, and waterfowl. You’re not guaranteed a whale sighting (even though there’s a good chance), but I promise it’s boatloads of fun. The Whale Tours run from mid-December through March.</p>

3. Virginia Beach Whale Tours

There’s nothing more magnificent than seeing the beauty of a whale with your own two eyes. Take the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a whale by booking a Whale Watching Tour . Join a marine educator to learn about humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, seabirds, and waterfowl. You’re not guaranteed a whale sighting (even though there’s a good chance), but I promise it’s boatloads of fun. The Whale Tours run from mid-December through March.

<p>Enjoy 360 coastal views from atop the <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/explore/attractions/cape-henry-lighthouse/" rel="nofollow noopener">Cape Henry Lighthouse</a>. There are two lighthouses—the original (dating back to 1792) and a newer one built in 1881. They’re just 350 feet apart from each other. The original lighthouse is open to the public if you’re up for a little workout to climb to the top. It’s a great spot for history buffs, but everyone enjoys the views at the top of the lighthouse.</p>

4. Cape Henry Lighthouse

Enjoy 360 coastal views from atop the Cape Henry Lighthouse . There are two lighthouses—the original (dating back to 1792) and a newer one built in 1881. They’re just 350 feet apart from each other. The original lighthouse is open to the public if you’re up for a little workout to climb to the top. It’s a great spot for history buffs, but everyone enjoys the views at the top of the lighthouse.

<p>Admire exquisite and unique art pieces at the <a href="https://virginiamoca.org/" rel="nofollow noopener">Virginia Beach Museum of Contemporary Art</a>. The museum cross-pollinates art with education, culture, and community under one house. MOCA offers several hands-on opportunities for kids to explore art, and they’re one of the only art museums in the U.S. that sponsors an outdoor art show: Virginia MOCA’s Boardwalk Art Show (which happens annually in October). Discover new traveling exhibits or one of their staple exhibits housed in MOCA.</p>

5. Virginia Beach Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Admire exquisite and unique art pieces at the Virginia Beach Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum cross-pollinates art with education, culture, and community under one house. MOCA offers several hands-on opportunities for kids to explore art, and they’re one of the only art museums in the U.S. that sponsors an outdoor art show: Virginia MOCA’s Boardwalk Art Show (which happens annually in October). Discover new traveling exhibits or one of their staple exhibits housed in MOCA.

<p>You didn’t vacation in Virginia Beach without taking a photo with King Neptune! The Boardwalk is one of the best free things to do in Virginia Beach. Aside from the beautiful beach, he’s the main attraction on the <a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/virginia-beach-boardwalk/" rel="noopener">Virginia Beach Boardwalk</a>. Even in the winter, plenty of tourists snapping photos with him. The twelve-ton statue stands twenty-four feet tall and is an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. There’s also nightly entertainment to enjoy during the summer while you stroll.</p>

6. Virginia Beach Boardwalk

You didn’t vacation in Virginia Beach without taking a photo with King Neptune! The Boardwalk is one of the best free things to do in Virginia Beach. Aside from the beautiful beach, he’s the main attraction on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk . Even in the winter, plenty of tourists snapping photos with him. The twelve-ton statue stands twenty-four feet tall and is an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. There’s also nightly entertainment to enjoy during the summer while you stroll.

<p>It might be small in size, but the <a href="https://www.vbsurfrescuemuseum.org/" rel="nofollow noopener">Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum</a> is full of interesting (and quirky) history about the area. They keep the maritime roots alive and honor the water-related history of the local communities. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s even said to be haunted. It’s a great rainy day activity, and you can glimpse the past and how Virginia Beach became what it is today!</p>

7. Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum

It might be small in size, but the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is full of interesting (and quirky) history about the area. They keep the maritime roots alive and honor the water-related history of the local communities. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s even said to be haunted. It’s a great rainy day activity, and you can glimpse the past and how Virginia Beach became what it is today!

<p>If you’re looking for an adventure on foot, check out the Virginia Beach hiking trails. The area has several wildlife refuges and state parks to explore. <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/explore/outdoor-activities/parks/first-landing-state-park/" rel="nofollow noopener">First Landing State Park</a> and <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/meetings/blog/post/explore-false-cape-state-park/" rel="nofollow noopener">False Cape State Park</a> offer designated areas for hiking and miles of scenic sandy beaches to explore. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails between the two parks.</p><p>Tourists can even earn rewards for visiting Virginia State Parks by participating in the Trail Quest program. Log into the State Park Adventures app and record your visit. The app keeps track of the parks you visit. You’ll earn five unique collectible pins. Receive one for your first park visit and then more after visiting 5, 10, 20, and all parks completed. It’s a program open to all ages.</p>

8. Virginia Beach Hiking

If you’re looking for an adventure on foot, check out the Virginia Beach hiking trails. The area has several wildlife refuges and state parks to explore. First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park offer designated areas for hiking and miles of scenic sandy beaches to explore. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails between the two parks.

Tourists can even earn rewards for visiting Virginia State Parks by participating in the Trail Quest program. Log into the State Park Adventures app and record your visit. The app keeps track of the parks you visit. You’ll earn five unique collectible pins. Receive one for your first park visit and then more after visiting 5, 10, 20, and all parks completed. It’s a program open to all ages.

<p>If your fascination with transportation extends beyond childhood, you must visit the <a href="https://militaryaviationmuseum.org/" rel="noopener">Military Aviation Museum</a>. It has 100+ acres of hangers and exhibits. The museum is home to one of the world’s largest flying collections of World War I and World War II-era military aircraft. You can see the planes up close and even hear the roar of a few engines. The museum offers special events throughout the year that uniquely examine collections and their impact on history. The craftsmanship of these beautiful aircraft will leave you in awe.</p>

9. Military Aviation Museum

If your fascination with transportation extends beyond childhood, you must visit the Military Aviation Museum . It has 100+ acres of hangers and exhibits. The museum is home to one of the world’s largest flying collections of World War I and World War II-era military aircraft. You can see the planes up close and even hear the roar of a few engines. The museum offers special events throughout the year that uniquely examine collections and their impact on history. The craftsmanship of these beautiful aircraft will leave you in awe.

<p>If you ever needed another reason to visit the Aviation Museum, the Jerrassic Park (yes, that’s how they spell it to differentiate themselves from the film of the same name) is the coolest bonus to your visit. It’s a unique collection of dinosaur sculptures at the entrance to the Virginia Beach Airport and museum property. It’s a great place to bring your kids if they’re dinosaur-obsessed. You can walk right beside the sculpture and take the most incredible photos!</p>

10. Jerrassic Park at the Military Aviation Museum

If you ever needed another reason to visit the Aviation Museum, the Jerrassic Park (yes, that’s how they spell it to differentiate themselves from the film of the same name) is the coolest bonus to your visit. It’s a unique collection of dinosaur sculptures at the entrance to the Virginia Beach Airport and museum property. It’s a great place to bring your kids if they’re dinosaur-obsessed. You can walk right beside the sculpture and take the most incredible photos!

<p>Every August, the <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/blog/post/surfers-guide-to-ecsc-weekend/" rel="noopener">East Coast Surf Championship</a> becomes the must-watch Virginia Beach attraction that brings thousands of visitors to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an action-packed week of sun, surf, and sportsmanship that tourists will love to watch. If you’ve never seen professional surfers – this is your chance to see the best! Grab an <a href="https://www.savvymamalifestyle.com/watermans-original-orange-crush-recipe/" rel="noopener">Orange Crush</a> cocktail and enjoy the surf views. </p>

11. East Coast Surf Championship

Every August, the East Coast Surf Championship becomes the must-watch Virginia Beach attraction that brings thousands of visitors to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an action-packed week of sun, surf, and sportsmanship that tourists will love to watch. If you’ve never seen professional surfers – this is your chance to see the best! Grab an Orange Crush cocktail and enjoy the surf views.

<p>So many fishing charters leave out of Rudee Inlet, which is part of the Oceanfront district. Seasonal and year-round fishing charters take guests out on guided fishing tours. Reserve your spot on a fishing charter and catch a big one! Tuna or marlin are well-known catches in the VA Beach area. Full-day and half-day trips are available, but prices depend on which type of charter you pick. Let your captain know your fishing experience and what kind of fish you can catch, depending on the time of year.</p><p>After your fishing charter, check out <a href="https://murphyspubvb.com/you-catch-it-we-cook-it/" rel="noopener">Murphey’s Irish Pub</a>, and they’ll cook your catch! All you have to do is bring your fish to the restaurant after your fishing trip. Leave the fish and your name with the hostess; then, they keep it on ice until you order. Order it fried, grilled, or blackened, and it’s served with coleslaw, french fries, & hush puppies.</p>

12. Virginia Beach Fishing

So many fishing charters leave out of Rudee Inlet, which is part of the Oceanfront district. Seasonal and year-round fishing charters take guests out on guided fishing tours. Reserve your spot on a fishing charter and catch a big one! Tuna or marlin are well-known catches in the VA Beach area. Full-day and half-day trips are available, but prices depend on which type of charter you pick. Let your captain know your fishing experience and what kind of fish you can catch, depending on the time of year.

After your fishing charter, check out Murphey’s Irish Pub , and they’ll cook your catch! All you have to do is bring your fish to the restaurant after your fishing trip. Leave the fish and your name with the hostess; then, they keep it on ice until you order. Order it fried, grilled, or blackened, and it’s served with coleslaw, french fries, & hush puppies.

<p>Check out the athletic achievements displayed through memorabilia and family-friendly exhibits at the <a href="https://vasportshof.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Virginia Sports Hall of Fame</a>. Families can “Walk The Hall,” a free pedestrian tour showcasing the great coaches and athletic administrators from the Commonwealth. If you’re a VATech fan, this is a must! You’ll leave feeling inspired, and it’s another rainy day activity. </p>

13. Virginia Sports Hall of Fame

Check out the athletic achievements displayed through memorabilia and family-friendly exhibits at the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame . Families can “Walk The Hall,” a free pedestrian tour showcasing the great coaches and athletic administrators from the Commonwealth. If you’re a VATech fan, this is a must! You’ll leave feeling inspired, and it’s another rainy day activity.

<p>There’s no better way to get a thrilling rush and see the best views than to go parasailing. Parasail over Virginia Beach and float 1,000 feet above the water. Get a birds-eye idea and see the oceanfront from a different perspective. Book with <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/listing/pirate-parasail/1100/" rel="noopener">Pirate Parasail</a> or <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/listing/air-america-parasail/420/" rel="noopener">Air America Parasail</a> at Rudee Inlet.</p>

14. Virginia Beach Parasailing

There’s no better way to get a thrilling rush and see the best views than to go parasailing. Parasail over Virginia Beach and float 1,000 feet above the water. Get a birds-eye idea and see the oceanfront from a different perspective. Book with Pirate Parasail or Air America Parasail at Rudee Inlet.

<p>Families love the hands-on learning that the <a href="https://www.cbf.org/join-us/education-program/field-programs/one-day/brock-environmental-education-program.html" rel="noopener">Chesapeake Bay Brock Environmental Center</a> has. Learn how to save the bay and the simple conservation efforts we can all do, which start at home. Visual representations of the local ecosystems fascinate guests, and touch tanks are also popular. Leave with a little more knowledge of how we can all respect the environment.</p>

15. Chesapeake Bay Brock Environmental Center

Families love the hands-on learning that the Chesapeake Bay Brock Environmental Center has. Learn how to save the bay and the simple conservation efforts we can all do, which start at home. Visual representations of the local ecosystems fascinate guests, and touch tanks are also popular. Leave with a little more knowledge of how we can all respect the environment.

16. Virginia Beach Biking

The local state parks , wildlife refuges, and miles of beaches are perfect for exploring as a family on the bike. Virginia Beach has over 200 miles of bikeways and trails on top of the park areas. Local rental companies offer bike rentals depending on the site you’ll be in. You can share a Surrey Bike as a group, take a leisurely ride on the Boardwalk, or rent a Fat Tire Bike and ride directly on the compact sands. Let the local experts guide you and help you decide what bike is best for your family adventure.

<p>Whether it’s a musical or comedy, there’s always something to enjoy at <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/plugins/crm/count/?type=client&key=4_653&val=eyJrZXkiOiI0XzY1MyIsInJlZGlyZWN0IjoiaHR0cDovL3d3dy5yZWdlbnQuZWR1L3RoZWF0cmUifQ%3D%3D" rel="noopener">Tidewater Stage</a> – the home theater for the Regent University program. Stories are brought to life by passionate young artists, presenting audiences of all ages with dedicated theatrical performances. Some of the shows are free, too. Check the theater’s seasonal calendar for show descriptions and to purchase tickets online.</p>

17. Theater in Virginia Beach

Whether it’s a musical or comedy, there’s always something to enjoy at Tidewater Stage – the home theater for the Regent University program. Stories are brought to life by passionate young artists, presenting audiences of all ages with dedicated theatrical performances. Some of the shows are free, too. Check the theater’s seasonal calendar for show descriptions and to purchase tickets online.

<p>Have you ever wanted to experience the awe of <a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/skydiving-side-hustle/">skydiving</a> without jumping out of a plane? That’s how <a href="https://www.iflyworld.com/virginia-beach/" rel="noopener">iFLY Virginia Beach</a> gives you the thrill of skydiving but indoors. They have a massive wind tunnel that offers the same excitement of skydiving. Flyers must be at least 40″ tall to participate, but there are great STEM learning opportunities for kids at iFLY who are old enough to participate. </p>

18. Indoor Skydiving in Virginia Beach

Have you ever wanted to experience the awe of skydiving without jumping out of a plane? That’s how iFLY Virginia Beach gives you the thrill of skydiving but indoors. They have a massive wind tunnel that offers the same excitement of skydiving. Flyers must be at least 40″ tall to participate, but there are great STEM learning opportunities for kids at iFLY who are old enough to participate.

<p>Feel transported from the beach and visit a local farm. The <a href="https://huntclubfarm.com/" rel="noopener">Hunt Club Farm</a> is a great way agritourism Virginia Beach attraction. They have a petting farm where kids can feed the goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, and donkeys. Pony rides are also available for kids of all sizes. Plus, depending on the time of year you visit, you can enjoy the local produce the farm harvests or participate in U-Pick to harvest your selection.</p>

19. Hunt Club Farm

Feel transported from the beach and visit a local farm. The Hunt Club Farm is a great way agritourism Virginia Beach attraction. They have a petting farm where kids can feed the goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, and donkeys. Pony rides are also available for kids of all sizes. Plus, depending on the time of year you visit, you can enjoy the local produce the farm harvests or participate in U-Pick to harvest your selection.

<p>Believe it or not, Virginia Beach converted a 640,000-ton pile of garbage into the nation’s first landfill park. It’s one of the best inland things to do in Virginia Beach. It’s 165 acres with two man-made mountains, two lakes, two playgrounds, and a skate park. Most notably, the skate park is next level with a 24,000-square-foot to ride on, two-level half pipes of 5′ and 6′ heights, and an attached quarter pipe. You’d never know there were years of trash under this beautiful green space.</p>

20. Mount Trashmore Park

Believe it or not, Virginia Beach converted a 640,000-ton pile of garbage into the nation’s first landfill park. It’s one of the best inland things to do in Virginia Beach. It’s 165 acres with two man-made mountains, two lakes, two playgrounds, and a skate park. Most notably, the skate park is next level with a 24,000-square-foot to ride on, two-level half pipes of 5′ and 6′ heights, and an attached quarter pipe. You’d never know there were years of trash under this beautiful green space.

<p><a href="https://www.neptunefestival.com/" rel="noopener">The Neptune Festival</a> is a massive music, food, and cultural festival that attracts 500,000 people annually. The featured attraction of The Neptune Festival is Neptune’s International Sandsculpting Competition, drawing a field of master sand artists from around the world; it is also the country’s largest competition of its kind. In addition, there are four stages of musical entertainment: an art and craft show featuring over 275 artists and fireworks. </p>

21. The Neptune Festival

The Neptune Festival is a massive music, food, and cultural festival that attracts 500,000 people annually. The featured attraction of The Neptune Festival is Neptune’s International Sandsculpting Competition, drawing a field of master sand artists from around the world; it is also the country’s largest competition of its kind. In addition, there are four stages of musical entertainment: an art and craft show featuring over 275 artists and fireworks.

<p><a href="https://www.vamuseums.org/our-museums/virginia-beach-history-museums" rel="nofollow noopener">Virginia Beach History Museums</a> represents the diversity of Virginia’s heritage in its historic homes spread throughout the city. Five historic homes, open to the public, showcase colonial life. The early 1700s colonial period comes to life with hands-on activities and seasonal events in the homes. The Thoroughgood House, Lynnhaven House, Francis Land House, Ferry Plantation House, and Upper Wolfsnare House are worth visiting if you want to dive into American history and see the lives of our first settlers. </p>

22. Historical Virginia Beach Homes

Virginia Beach History Museums represents the diversity of Virginia’s heritage in its historic homes spread throughout the city. Five historic homes, open to the public, showcase colonial life. The early 1700s colonial period comes to life with hands-on activities and seasonal events in the homes. The Thoroughgood House, Lynnhaven House, Francis Land House, Ferry Plantation House, and Upper Wolfsnare House are worth visiting if you want to dive into American history and see the lives of our first settlers.

<p>If you’re a marine animal lover, one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach is to kayak amongst the dolphins. The tour is only available from late April through October. Take it to the next level and see dolphins up close. <a href="https://www.kayaknaturetours.net/" rel="nofollow noopener">Dolphin Kayak Tours</a> allows groups to paddle calm water areas to see groups of dolphins for the ultimate experience. All levels of kayaking experience are welcome, and the tour includes all the gear you need. </p>

23. Kayak With Dolphins

If you’re a marine animal lover, one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach is to kayak amongst the dolphins. The tour is only available from late April through October. Take it to the next level and see dolphins up close. Dolphin Kayak Tours allows groups to paddle calm water areas to see groups of dolphins for the ultimate experience. All levels of kayaking experience are welcome, and the tour includes all the gear you need.

<p>Works of art, whether sculptures, paintings, or statues, are located across Virginia Beach. Some of the most famous pieces are the art murals in the ViBe district. Take the <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/explore/beaches-districts/vibe-creative-district/" rel="nofollow noopener">ViBe Mural Walking Tour</a>, a leisurely, one-mile walking tour, to see these colorful murals yourself. These Instagram-worthy murals are bright and colorful, each with a particular story behind them. </p><p><strong>More from Wealth of Geeks</strong></p><ul> <li><a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/every-national-park-in-the-united-states/">Every National Park in the US</a></li> <li><a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/beautiful-places-in-west-virginia/">The Most Beautiful Places in West Virginia</a></li> </ul>

24. Check Out the Vibe District Murals

Works of art, whether sculptures, paintings, or statues, are located across Virginia Beach. Some of the most famous pieces are the art murals in the ViBe district. Take the ViBe Mural Walking Tour , a leisurely, one-mile walking tour, to see these colorful murals yourself. These Instagram-worthy murals are bright and colorful, each with a particular story behind them.

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The 12 Best Things To Do In Wytheville, Virginia

This historic small town charms visitors with an easy-going quirky side.

Erin Gifford is a travel and outdoor writer based in Virginia with 20+ years of writing and editing experience. She has also written three guidebooks on hiking trails in Virginia.

Get to Know Wytheville's History

Where To Dine

Outdoor activities, things not to miss.

Courtesy Visit Wytheville

At the intersection of two major highways, I-77 and I-81, you’ll find Wytheville , a small town named after George Wythe, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and friend and mentor to Thomas Jefferson. Wytheville is rich in American history, but it’s also noted for its quirky, must-visit attractions, like one of America’s smallest churches, a rainbow-painted hot air balloon water tower, and a 100-foot-tall lookout tower that boasts wildly scenic panoramas across the mountains.

Here everything you must do on a trip to Wytheville, Virginia.

Get to Know Wytheville's History

Brush up on the life of a former first lady.

At the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum , visitors are captivated by the life and times of this former First Lady who was born and raised in Wytheville. In particular, you’ll learn the role she played in the White House, encouraging Meatless Mondays and Wheatless Wednesdays as ways to encourage conservation efforts during World War I. Wytheville is also home to the elegant Bolling Wilson Hotel on Main Street.

edithbollingwilson.org , 145 E. Main Street, Wytheville, VA 24382

See a Show at a Historic Theatre

The historic Millwald Theatre first delighted audiences in 1928 with comical vaudeville shows and “moving pictures,” keeping the house lights on until 2005 when it closed its doors. Following a multi-million dollar renovation, the 500-seat Millwald Theatre re-opened in late 2022. Today, the original neon marquee sign welcomes a new generation with musicians, films, author conversations, comedians, and tribute bands.

themillwald.org , 205 W. Main Street, Wytheville, VA 24382

Step Out for Drinks

When you want to raise a glass with friends, you’re covered in Wytheville. Stop in Petals Wine Bar , which debuted in 2023, for artisan wines from local vineyards and around the globe. At the Bolling Wilson Hotel, head up to The Perch , a stylish rooftop bar with craft cocktails, local brews, and views across the Blue Ridge Mountains. For craft beers, Seven Sisters Brewery and 7 Dogs Brewpub are also tops in Wytheville.

Enjoy Southern Cuisine

Settle in for a bite at Graze on Main , which is known for its creative takes on southern faves, like pimento cheese dip, fried green tomatoes, and shrimp etouffee. For home-cooked southern flavors, check out Grayson Restaurant , which wows with comfort foods, like country fried steak, grilled pork shops, and BBQ sliders. There are plenty of sides too, like tater tots, baked apples, and okra.

Make Stops for Iconic Eats

It’s practically mandatory to stop in Skeeter’s World Famous Hot Dogs , which has been in operation since 1925. The menu features nearly a dozen specialty dogs, including Cheese Coney, Chattahoochee, Slawdog, and the Skeeterdog topped with mustard, onions, and chili. Another long-time favorite is Log House 1776 Restaurant , which was gutted by a fire in late-2021, but rose from the ashes in 2023 to serve stuffed pork tenderloin and chicken verde pecan.

Savor Mountain Views from an Observation Tower

Climb to the top of the 100-foot-tall Big Walker Lookout for mountain views for miles. The panoramas are sensational, including Jefferson National Forest to the south and lush farmlands to the east. Admission includes a swinging bridge to get from the country store to the base of the observation tower. Stop in the general store for souvenirs, local crafts, and hand-dipped ice cream. On weekends from May to October, live mountain music plays across the hills.

scenicbeauty-va.com , 8711 Stoney Fork Road, Wytheville, VA 24382

Go Hiking at a Local Recreation Area

Crystal Springs Recreation Area is home to hiking and biking trails, camp sites, and picnic tables, even a small waterfall. Take the High Rock Trail to the top of High Rock for breathtaking north-facing views across to the town of Wytheville, including the town’s rainbow-painted hot air balloon water tower. This park is truly an outdoor treasure.

visitwytheville.com/crystal-springs , 723 Pump Hollow Road, Wytheville, VA 24382

Explore an Herb Farm

Wander Beagle Ridge Herb Farm , which is known for more than a dozen varieties of lavender that are grown on the farm. The lavender farm hosts events like cooking classes, pizza nights, spa days, and make-and-take crafting sessions, largely from May to September. Using lavender, guests can learn to make herbal soaps and wreaths.

beagleridge.org , 1934 Matney Falls Road, Wytheville, VA 24382

Go on an Animal Safari

Fort Chiswell Animal Park is a short drive east of Wytheville. It’s a fan favorite among children and adults alike. A visit starts at the petting zoo, which features pygmy goats, llamas, fallow deer, and alpacas. An open-air safari bus offers a guided tour of the animal park for views of exotic animals, like emus, zebras, bison, and the beloved Puff the Camel.

fortchiswellanimalpark.com , 569 Red Hollow Road, Max Meadows, VA 24360

Visit One of the Country’s Smallest Churches

Wytheville is home to one of the smallest churches in the United States. Since 2010, this pint-sized prayer chapel has been open 24 hours a day to serve the needs of local residents, as well as motorists cruising up and down I-81. Inside, there are four pews, bibles, and a guest register. However, there is no pastor or priest, and there are no regular church services. Outside, there is a bell tower, three crosses, and a prayer garden.

wythesmallchurch.com , 1090 Nye Road, Wytheville, VA 24382

Snap a Photo of The Big Pencil

Wytheville Office Supply is known for its staplers and copy paper. It’s also known for the super-sized pencil that’s affixed to the store sign urging passersby into the front door. The beloved 30-foot-long Big Pencil has been a landmark on Main Street since the 1960s. However, this gram-worthy writing implement has only been at its current address since 1985.

wythevilleofficesupply.com , 146 W. Main Street, Wytheville, VA 24382

Admire the Town’s Water Tower

Wytheville’s rainbow-colored water tower is known well beyond city limits thanks to its resemblance to a hot air balloon. The colorful tower beckons to highway travelers motoring up and down I-81 and pays homage to the town’s annual Chautauqua Festival . Each June the festival draws in visitors with balloon flights, a fun run, a car show, outdoor art exhibits, and the Miss Chautauqua Pageant.

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Discover fall in almost heaven.

Featured Destinations

From ATV excursions in small towns to scenic drives across the state, West Virginia is made for everyone. Rest and relax at a world-class resort or head out for a waterfall hike. It’s all waiting for you this summer in Almost Heaven.

Chase stunning fall foliage this season aboard a scenic train ride or ATV excursion. Reconnect with friends and family in a cozy cabin. From charming small towns to flavorful farm-to-table dishes, an autumn adventure awaits in Almost Heaven.

Featured Road Trip

Get a true taste of west virginia along this memorable route.

Less than three hours outside Roanoke, this stretch of West Virginia is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Shaped by the famous New River Gorge, you’ll find plenty of riverside activities, outdoor adventures and some of the most extraordinary views. Pair that with the region’s compelling historical past and vibrant small towns, and you’ve got one very memorable trip....

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Culture & Lifestyle

Check Out These Charming Small Towns in Almost Heaven

Get a true taste of west virginia along this memorable route, a memorable trip through the potomac highlands.

Defined by its rivers and lush forests, this region in southern West Virginia has some of the most spectacular outdoor recreation.

Explore Some of West Virginia's Most Stunning Sights

Just a short drive outside of the Washington and Baltimore metro areas, this loop through West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle is both a relaxing and enlightening weekend getaway.

You Can Take a Drive and a Dip Along This Historic Loop

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Explore lodging.

Whether you prefer a luxury retreat at a world-class resort or a rustic campsite stay under starry night skies, West Virginia has accommodations for every type of traveler. As you plan your mountain road trip, explore one-of-a-kind stays and traditional comforts along the way. The peace and solitude of Almost Heaven is just an overnight stay away.

Current Season

Blooming rhododendrons. Wildflower hikes. Rushing waterfalls. Welcome to spring in West Virginia. It's the season where Almost Heaven comes alive.

Escape the churn and burn of the daily routine and hit the road this summer. Explore wide open spaces with plenty of room to roam.

Nature works her magic every autumn in West Virginia. As the third most forested state, our country roads are vibrant with color and a sight to behold in the fall.

The wonder of winter in West Virginia is filled with untouched fallen snow, scrapes of skates along fresh ice and snow-capped mountain views you have to see to believe.

Explore Hotel Options

The 2024 Governor’s Conference on Tourism is slated to be one of the largest yet and is taking place at the newly renovated Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center. Explore these wonderful options to check availability for your nights using the links below.

Charleston Marriott Town Center

This welcoming Charleston, WV hotel is located in the heart of downtown Charleston and features state-of-the art guest rooms with luxurious bedding, a large work desk and high-speed Internet access.

Embassy Suites By Hilton

The Embassy Suites Charleston, all-suite hotel is conveniently located in Charleston, WV within walking distance of Charleston Town Center Mall.

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Our friends at Charleston CVB have even more lodging options for you to explore. Find your perfect stay in the Metro Valley region.

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4.8 magnitude earthquake rattles NYC, New Jersey: Live updates

NEW YORK – A 4.8 magnitude earthquake recorded in New Jersey that shook residents in surrounding states and New York City on Friday morning was one of the strongest in state history.

The temblor was reported about 5 miles north of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, at about 10:23 a.m. Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The epicenter was about 45 miles from New York City, where residents reported shaking furniture and floors.

“Earthquakes in this region are uncommon but not unexpected. It’s likely people near the epicenter are going to feel aftershocks for this earthquake in the magnitude 2-3 range, and there’s a small chance there can be an earthquake as large or larger, following an earthquake like this,” Paul Earle, a seismologist at the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program told reporters. “In terms of our operations, this is a routine earthquake … Immediately we knew this would be of high interest and important to people who don’t feel earthquakes a lot.”

People reported feeling the shaking as far north as Maine and as far south as Norfolk, Virginia, following the quake, according to USGS. Scientists said those in the affected area should listen to local emergency officials and be prepared to seek cover if aftershocks occur.

“If you feel shaking, drop, cover and hold,” Earle said.

No major disruptions or damage have been reported in New Jersey or New York.

"We have activated our State Emergency Operations Center. Please do not call 911 unless you have an actual emergency," said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.

President Joe Biden spoke with Murphy about the earthquake and the White House is monitoring the situation.

“He thinks everything's under control,” Biden told reporters before leaving the White House for a trip to Baltimore. “He’s not too concerned about it, the governor of New Jersey, so things are all right.”

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the quake was felt throughout New York, and officials are assessing impacts and any potential damage.

In Yonkers, New York, Mayor Mike Spano said City Hall shook but no injuries were reported.

"A few moments ago our entire house shook for about 25 seconds or so here in Mendham, New Jersey," former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said.

USGS is still investigating the exact fault line at the center of Friday’s quake and said it occurred in a region with dozens of fault lines that were more active millions of years ago.

4.0 magnitude aftershock strikes hours after earthquake

Officials in New York and New Jersey alerted residents to an aftershock Friday evening, nearly eight hours after the earthquake.

A 4.0 magnitude aftershock slammed New Jersey at around 6 p.m., with an epicenter about four miles southwest of Gladstone, according to the USGS. New York City’s emergency notification system alerted residents to the aftershock minutes later, urging people to remain indoors and call 911 if injured.

Hochul said there were no reports of serious damage after the aftershock, and officials were continuing to assess critical infrastructure.

The aftershock Friday evening was at least the third that USGS recorded after the quake struck.

As of Friday afternoon, the USGS aftershock forecast predicted a 36% chance of aftershocks at a 3.0 magnitude or higher, an 8% chance of aftershocks at a 4.0 magnitude or higher, and a 1% chance for aftershocks at a magnitude of 5.0 or higher over the next week.

USGS scientists said informal observations can be a big help in understanding earthquakes, especially in a region where they’re less common.

“We encourage people to fill out the ‘Did You Feel It?’ reports on our website,” said Sara McBride, a scientist with the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program. “This citizen science project is critical in terms of building our knowledge around earthquakes.”

By midafternoon on Friday, the agency said it had received more than 161,000 reports, and extrapolated that the quake had been felt by millions of people. McBride acknowledged that earthquakes can be nerve-wracking for people who don’t live in seismologically active regions, and said knowledge is power in combatting that discomfort.

“The best thing you can do to relieve any unsettling feelings you might have is to learn how to protect yourself during shaking and how to prepare for earthquakes in the future,” she said.

Man getting vasectomy during earthquake recounts experience

One Horsham, Pennsylvania, man shared his unusual earthquake experience, saying the tremors hit when he was in the middle of receiving a vasectomy.

"The surgeon sort of froze and all of us kind of seemed a bit confused," Justin Allen told USA TODAY . "Even when the surgeon said 'that’s gotta be an earthquake,' I thought he was joking."

Luckily, Allen's doctor was able to resume the procedure after a brief pause, and the rest went off without a hitch. Now recovering at home, Allen said it's an experience no one involved will forget, especially because his social media post about the incident has since gone viral.

"My wife says that 'this is a clear and obvious sign that we should not have any more kids,'" Allen said.

New Jersey resident thought sound from earthquake was an explosion

Madeline Nafus had just finished feeding her 7-week-old baby when, simultaneously, she was thrown off balance and the loudest sound she’d ever heard rang out.

“I thought it was either an explosion or a bombing because of how loud it was,” said Nafus, who lives in Long Valley, New Jersey, a few miles from the earthquake's epicenter. “It was just terrifying.”

Nafus, 29, watched as her light fixtures swung and wine glasses, framed photos and a 6-foot elk head crashed onto the floor. Feeling as if her “house was going to crumble,” she picked up her baby boy, grabbed some blankets and headed outside. Meanwhile, her friend came running downstairs and picked up Nafus’ quivering dog, Olivia, a small golden doodle.

After about 15 seconds, the rumbling went away and only occasional, minor tremors could be felt. Nafus called her husband, who was teaching a golf lesson at the time, and then their 2-year-old’s day care.

“They said the children were all confused and asking a lot of questions but that they were OK,” she said.'

How common are East Coast quakes?

Earthquakes are less frequent in the eastern part of the country than in the west, but they have occurred in every state east of the Mississippi River, according to the USGS.

"Since colonial times people in the New York – Philadelphia – Wilmington urban corridor have felt small earthquakes and suffered damage from infrequent larger ones," according to the USGS. "Moderately damaging earthquakes strike somewhere in the urban corridor roughly twice a century, and smaller earthquakes are felt roughly every two to three years."

USGS officials also said that even smaller-magnitude quakes are more likely to be felt more widely on the East Coast than similar size quakes on the West Coast due to the rock properties of eastern soil, which can cause concern to East Coasters not used to the tremors.

Rocks in the eastern part of the country are much older than in the west, by up to millions of years. Those older rocks have been exposed to more extreme temperatures and pressure, and faults have had more time to heal. Seismic waves travel across the resulting harder and denser faults much more efficiently, so the effects of a quake are felt across a larger area. In the West, faults are newer and absorb more of the seismic wave energy without spreading as far.

Quake felt in Massachusetts

In Auburn, Massachusetts, more than 200 miles from the earthquake's epicenter, Jerry Steinhelper was on a video call for work when his house began to tremble. His dog Maize started barking, and books and trinkets fell from their shelves. He looked out the window and saw trees shaking.

“I thought at first it may be ice falling off the roof. But it kept going and the entire house was shaking,” he told USA TODAY. “Then I just knew it was an earthquake.”

Steinhelper, 55, lived in San Diego in the 1980s and experienced temblors there, but he’s never felt one in Massachusetts, where he’s been for over 25 years.

“It was an interesting 10 to 15 seconds,” he said.

'It felt like a plane crashed outside' near epicenter

Nicole Kravitz, 33, was baking muffins at the cafe she co-owns with her husband in New Jersey when the floor began to shake. She and the cooks looked at each other for a few moments, and then at some stacked plates and glasses that had started vibrating.

Their eatery, Branchburg's Best, is located in New Jersey's Somerset County, near the epicenter of Friday’s earthquake.

“It felt like a plane crashed outside,” she said. “No one knew what was happening.”

Some workers ran out the door to see if something had smashed into the building while she checked the basement for damage. Meanwhile, Patrick Tucker, her husband, who was picking up beef from a nearby farm, watched agitated chickens and cows run around in their pens, visibly shaken by the quake.

Kravitz said the intensity of the earthquake made her feel like she was back in Southern California, where she had lived for several years before she returned to her home state in 2016.

Quake was one of the strongest to ever impact New Jersey

Friday's earthquake was the most significant in New Jersey since 1884 , when an Aug. 10 earthquake somewhere near Jamaica Bay, New York, toppled chimneys and moved houses off their foundations as far as Rahway, New Jersey, 30 miles away.

Other than that quake, there were only three earthquakes in modern history that caused damage in the state: 1737 (New York City), 1783 (west of New York City) and 1927 (New Jersey coast near Asbury), according to New Jersey Office of Emergency Management records.

The Dec. 19, 1737 earthquake is believed by modern experts to have been a 5.2 magnitude quake. Charted as taking place in the greater New York City area, some accounts say its epicenter was near Weehawken. State records show it threw down chimneys. Chimneys were also hurled down during the Nov. 29, 1783 quake. Estimated at a 5.3 magnitude that originated in modern-day Rockaway Township, according to state records, it was felt from Pennsylvania to New England.

The Aug. 10, 1884 quake, estimated at a 5.2 magnitude was the last the state has seen of its significance and was felt from Virginia to Maine, according to state records.

Read more about New Jersey's earthquake history.

– David M. Zimmer, NorthJersey.com

New Jersey business owner describes worst quake ever felt but went right back to work

It was a busy day for La Bella Salon & Spa in Lebanon, New Jersey, when an earthquake struck near the rural township.

About a dozen stylists and customers, some whom were getting their hair dyed while others got manicures and eyelash extensions, all froze as the building rattled for about 30 seconds.

“People started to feel the shaking, and it got worse and worse. We were like ‘Oh, my god, what is going on?’" said shop owner Rosanne Drechsel. “I thought a truck hit the building or something.”

After the tremor subsided, nearly everyone in the building started receiving texts and phone calls from friends and family, Drechsel, 61, said.

Nothing was damaged and no one was injured, but Drechsel, who was born and raised in New Jersey, said it was “by far the worst earthquake” she had ever felt.

“We all went back to work and finished the appointments,” she said. “Customers are calling now to see if we're still open and if they can still make their appointments later on today.”

'It was scary': Quake rattles shelves in Brooklyn bodega

In Brooklyn, residents said they felt their buildings shake and many went outdoors after the rumbling stopped to check in with neighbors.

Julio Melo, a deli worker, said he thought the sounds of the earthquake resembled those of a large truck going down the street. But when Melo, 32, looked around and saw beer bottles rattling on store shelves, and a potted plant shimmy down the counter, he thought it might be something bigger, he told USA TODAY.

“I looked at my employee and he had the same tragic face on as me, it was scary,” he said at Jenesis’ Grocery Corp. in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood.

– Claire Thornton

Where was the earthquake felt?

Residents and officials said the earthquake was felt throughout New York, as well as in New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. It was also felt as far away as Cambridge, Massachusetts, about 250 miles away from the reported epicenter.

Charita Walcott, a 38-year-old resident in the Bronx borough of New York, said the quake felt "like a violent rumble that lasted about 30 seconds or so."

"It was kind of like being in a drum circle, that vibration," she said.

Earthquakes common in the region, but the size is unusual: Expert

Chuck Ver Straeten, a geologist and curator of sedimentary rocks at the New York State Museum, told USA TODAY it’s not surprising this earthquake happened where it did.

“New York, around New York City going into New Jersey, there’s a lot of earthquakes historically down there. Happens every year,” he said. But it’s less common for them to be of such a high magnitude. It’s not surprising that many people felt it, he said. Usually, earthquakes in the region are at a lower magnitude and less likely to be felt.

Ver Straeten said the real question now is if this is just a precursor to a larger quake.

“You never know what is the earthquake, what is a pre-earthquake, what is an earthquake happening after the main earthquake, you just have to see,” he said. “One slip along the rock fault, when one happens, it makes other areas around there more tense also and they start to slip and you slip again and slip again.”

But, he added, it would be unlikely for a larger quake to follow this one. In the Northeast, it’s more common for one large quake to be followed by smaller aftershocks, rather than a mounting series of tremors.

What does magnitude mean in an earthquake?

Magnitude is a measurement of the strength of an earthquake . Officially it's called the Moment Magnitude Scale . It's a logarithmic scale , meaning each number is ten times as strong as the one before it. So a 5.2 earthquake is moderate while a 6.2 is strong.

The magnitude and effect of an earthquake, according to Michigan Technological University :

◾ Below 2.5: Generally not felt

◾ 2.5 to 5.4: Minor or no damage

◾ 5.5 to 6.0: Slight damage to buildings

◾ 6.1 to 6.9: Serious damage

◾ 8.0 or greater: Massive damage, can totally destroy communities

Intensity scales, measured in Roman numerals, are used to describe how strong the earthquake felt to people in the area.

According to the California Earthquake Authority , an intensity of I is typically felt only under especially favorable conditions. A IV, which leads to light shaking, is felt indoors by many, but not typically outdoors. It might awaken some people at night and lead to a sensation like a truck striking a building. A parked car would rock. Intensities VI and above would be strong, frightening and felt by all, with the damage increasing up to a X where the shaking would be violent. Some well-built wooden structures would be destroyed and most masonry and frame structures along with their foundations would be ruined.

While you might have heard the term " the Richter Scale " used to describe earthquakes, it is no longer commonly used because it was only valid for certain earthquake frequencies and distance ranges.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Contributing: Reuters

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Want to visit Virginia but not sure where to start? We've got plenty of trip inspiration for you!

Plan your Virginia getaway with ease by exploring dozens of trip ideas and itineraries across Virginia's ten distinct regions, or review our trip ideas for family fun, fall weekend getaways, and road trip routes to find some of the 300+ love signs across the state - perfect for photo ops - with our LOVEwork road trip ideas below.

Central Virginia

Getaway to charlottesville area wineries, a charming, romantic & historic getaway in the country, central virginia food and wine getaway, getaway to richmond for walkable city fun, getaway to richmond history: always in season, explore pocahontas: the park & the story, northern virginia, a wine getaway in northern virginia, agritourism getaway to northern virginia, couples getaway to loudoun, family fun awaits in loudoun, i propose the potomac, red, white & blue stafford getaway, touring & tasting dc’s wine country®, coastal virginia - hampton roads, getaway to virginia beach, norfolk family getaway, un-wine'd in chesapeake, escape to yorktown and sail into the sunset together, tides of history, three full days to find alexander hamilton in greater williamsburg, visit genuine smithfield for hams, history, hospitality & heart, coastal virginia - eastern shore, from seaside to bayside: an insiders tour of the eastern shore, natural beauty: virginia's eastern shore, chesapeake bay, getaway to the northern neck and chesapeake bay, getaway to mathews and the chesapeake bay, tour de seafood: middle peninsula waterways, 48 hours in kilmarnock: a couples guide to shopping, dining and exploring in virginia's river realm, 48 hours with the family at belle isle state park, shenandoah valley, shenandoah valley adventures by land river and sky, shenandoah valley: your base camp for outdoor adventure, getaway to the shenandoah valley to hike, bike and sip wine, cabin capital and the great outdoors, lexington foodie finds & more, 48 hours of shenandoah living, giggles & grins family getaway, guilt-free getaway: wild side of natural bridge, history & wine: five wineries paired with historic natural bridge, adventures on the maury river, shenandoah valley and virginia mountains, wine and dine your way through shenandoah county, a getaway from the bridge to the ridge, virginia mountains, family fun in virginia's blue ridge, getaway to the star city in virginia's blue ridge mountains, how to: a wine weekend in virginia's blue ridge, find your passion along the blue ridge mountains, mountain getaway to virginia's blue ridge, get cozy in botetourt county, get out on the wine trail of botetourt county, make mountains move on a summer mountain vacation, blue ridge highlands, taste of abingdon - a culinary scene rooted in appalachia, primland resort: your mountaintop retreat, claytor lake state park getaway, heart of appalachia, a breaks interstate park getaway, explore natural tunnel state park, southern virginia, family lake getaway in southern virginia, getaway to buggs island lake, getaway to southern style romance in lake country, foodie fanatic tour of the salty southern route, southern virginia farm getaway, from moonshine to motorsports, reconnect in southern virginia, family fun getaways, lovework roadtrips, fall getaways.

Solar Eclipse 2024

The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

T he total solar eclipse passing through parts of the U.S. on April 8 stands to have a major economic impact on cities across the country as stargazers flock to the path of totality.

Factors including the date of the eclipse and the number of states in the path of totality means that millions of people will have the opportunity to view the event— and that the cities hosting them could see a combined $1.5 billion injected into their states’ economies.

“That number will include lodging costs for visitors coming from out of state or far away parts of their own state, as well as gas costs and food costs,” says Bulent Temel, assistant professor of practice in economics at the University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, who performed the calculations to arrive at the $1.5 billion figure.

One to four million people are expected to travel for the eclipse, according to Great American Eclipse , an informational site that tracks solar eclipses around the world. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) estimates the days leading up to the eclipse will be some of the busiest travel days of the season, with 50,670 flights on Thursday, April 4 and 48,904 flights on Friday, April 5. That means the spending will be spread out: “[The eclipse] is on a Monday, so you might have folks coming Friday, Saturday, Sunday, spending a few days somewhere ahead of the event,” says John Downen, Director of Impact Analysis at Camoin Associates.

Read More : How Cities Around the U.S. Are Celebrating the Eclipse

Many regions along the path of totality have spent months—if not years—preparing for the upcoming surge of visitors and money. Rochester, NY, is expecting 300,000 to 500,000 visitors across the nine - county Greater Rochester region. Local businesses have a slate of specials and planned events the weekend leading up to the event—including eclipse themed beers from local breweries and a three-day pass from the Rochester Museum and Science Center for visitors to attend a range of talks and performances.

The area’s tourism board says that some hotels have reported demand skyrocketing an average of 1200% for the four-day span leading up to April 8— unusual demand for a Monday in the region’s off-peak season.

It’s an economic boost that no amount of planning— or marketing—can replicate. “It’s a really great tourism opportunity,” says Shannon Ealy, Director of Communications and Marketing for the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce. “You can spend millions of dollars on media buys to get our regional brand out there, but you can't exactly buy the sun and the moon crossing over us.”

Read More: See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

But unfortunate weather could still put a damper on things, especially for businesses that might be stocking up for an influx of visitors, since many eclipse chasers decide where to view the eclipse based on weather that can’t be predicted until the event draws closer. “Even a simple factor like a cloudy day could just compromise all these expectations quite a bit,” Temel says.

The real task for local business and tourism boards lies in converting one-time visitors into ones that return—without the promise of a solar eclipse. “Every single one of those visitors is a potential future visitor to the same area as well,” says Temel. “In the long run, the economic impact would be magnified quite significantly.

Adds Downen: “It definitely presents an opportunity, especially in smaller communities, to showcase themselves and hopefully capture some future repeat visitors.”

Read More : Where to Find Solar Eclipse Glasses—And Spot Fake Ones

Lebanon, Indiana, for example, is expecting its population to triple during the weekend before the eclipse. Joe Lepage, the city’s communication and community development director, says he hopes that the eclipse will change the way both locals and out-of-towners talk about Lebanon.

“We have a large business park, great hospitals, establishments where people can work, but actually staying and living in Lebanon has been difficult to sell.” he says. "It'll give people that are going back home a chance to visit and realize, ‘Hey, that little town is nice.’ But then our locals can see all the things they have in their backyard and realize, ‘Hey, my community is pretty special too.’”

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Write to Simmone Shah at [email protected]

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Visit Virginia
For mountain hikers, families of all species and foodies. For wine sippers, oyster slurpers, head bangers, apple pickers, and festival fanatics. Subscribe to Our Newsletter! Visit Virginia's official tourism website for travel info and vacation planning. Explore our cities and towns, find fun things to do, and discover unique places to stay.
15 Best Places to Visit in Virginia
Middleburg. #15 in Best Places to Visit in Virginia. Middleburg, an easy weekend getaway destination from Washington, D.C., is known for its horses and its wine. Often referred to as "the nation's ...
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Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., residents often flock to Shenandoah National Park for a mountain getaway. You can reach the park in about two hours from the nation's capital, giving you ...
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Visit Virginia for one of the most varied vacations in the USA. Things to do include seeing historic attractions, enjoying natural beauty and pristine coastlines, shopping and wine tasting. ... Boardwalk Attractions ; Shenandoah National Park. The best way to take in this park's mountains, valleys and sizable Blue Ridge Mountain wilderness is ...
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Discover the history, culture, and natural beauty of Virginia with this list of the top attractions in the state. From colonial Williamsburg to Shenandoah National Park, from Arlington National Cemetery to Virginia Beach, you'll find something for everyone in Virginia.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Virginia
See way to experience (1) 2023. 4. Historic Jamestowne. 5,551. Historic Sites. Historic Jamestowne is the original site of the first permanent English settlement in America. Ongoing archaeology at the site of James Fort has changed our understanding of the struggles and triumphs of early 1600s life in Virginia.
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Arlington, site of Arlington National Cemetery, is just across the Potomac River from all the major sites in D.C. In addition to beaches and historical attractions, Virginia has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts. Active families will love the Blue Ridge Highlands, where hiking, canoeing and tubing are just a few of the activities offered.
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Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835, United States. 5. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, or VFMA, is among the best places to visit in Virginia due to its commonly acknowledged caliber, making it one of the state's greatest museums.
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101 Visitor Center Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA. Phone +1 888-965-7254. Web Visit website. Located near Interstate 64 about halfway between Richmond and Norfolk, approximately 150 miles south of Washington, D.C., Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the United States.
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Virginia Tourism Corporation. Just like the city of Bath in England, Bath County, Virginia gets its name from its natural healing waters.
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If you do not have time for a hike, there are dozens of amazing Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks that provide stunning panoramic views. Some of the best stops on the Virginia side of the Parkway include Mabry Mill at milepost 176, Peaks of Otter at milepost 86, and Apple Orchard Mountain at milepost 76.5. Living in Virginia gives you amazing ...
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The Many Wineries of Virginia. The state of Virginia is home to over 300 wineries, and a vineyard-focused vacation in Virginia makes for a fun romantic getaway or trip with friends. Almost every region of the state features a large number of wineries, many of which are located near each other and can be easily visited by either car or guided tour.
Virginia Travel Guide
Virginia is home to several unique vacation destinations. Williamsburg, located in southeast Virginia, is a top spot for history lovers and families. The town and surrounding area are home to several historic sites that give visitors a taste of Colonial American life, such as Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown.
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THINGS TO DO IN VIRGINIA BEACH . Expand your horizons and discover your best self here in Virginia Beach. Whether you're looking for playgrounds and mini golf or nightlife and brewery tours, pet-friendly attractions or paddling tours, you'll find new things to love and great ways to connect in our welcoming destination.
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1. Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon is the most popular tourist destination in Virginia and one of the most popular in all of America. George Washington lived here from 1754-1799.. He added on to the original house and made many changes to make it more comfortable.
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The Old Dominion presents one of the best vacation experiences on the East Coast, and these small towns in Virginia are proof of just how much travelers can expect. The state's rich history, diverse natural landscapes, unique culture, and outdoor opportunities ensure that there are enough attractions to keep all types of travelers engaged and ...
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Virginia Beach History Museums represents the diversity of Virginia's heritage in its historic homes spread throughout the city. Five historic homes, open to the public, showcase colonial life.
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ARPA Tourism Recovery Program. In an effort to restore Virginia's tourism industry following the COVID pandemic, VTC is offering ARPA funds to spur economic activity and travel across the Commonwealth. For more information Click Here. For regional educational and training webinars for submitting plans for ARPA funds Click Here.
Attractions
Outdoor lovers enjoy scenic places like Natural Bridge, Luray Caverns, and Shenandoah National Park. History buffs explore iconic historic sites like Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, Mount Vernon, and Monticello. Families flock to theme parks and coastal attractions in Virginia Beach and Virginia's Eastern Shore. For those looking for ...
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At the intersection of two major highways, I-77 and I-81, you'll find Wytheville, a small town named after George Wythe, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and friend and mentor to Thomas Jefferson.Wytheville is rich in American history, but it's also noted for its quirky, must-visit attractions, like one of America's smallest churches, a rainbow-painted hot air balloon water ...
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The gardens at the University of Virginia and Monticello are among the top 10 best in the commonwealth of Virginia, according to a new ranking. ... Tourism; Get local news delivered to your inbox!
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Defined by its rivers and lush forests, this region in southern West Virginia has some of the most spectacular outdoor recreation. Explore Some of West Virginia's Most Stunning Sights Just a short drive outside of the Washington and Baltimore metro areas, this loop through West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle is both a relaxing and enlightening ...
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The Aug. 10, 1884 quake, estimated at a 5.2 magnitude was the last the state has seen of its significance and was felt from Virginia to Maine, according to state records. Read more about New ...
Trip Ideas
Plan your Virginia getaway with ease by exploring dozens of trip ideas and itineraries across Virginia's ten distinct regions, or review our trip ideas for family fun, fall weekend getaways, and road trip routes to find some of the 300+ love signs across the state - perfect for photo ops - with our LOVEwork road trip ideas below. Whether it's ...
How the 2024 Solar Eclipse Will Impact Economies
The area's tourism board says that some hotels have reported demand skyrocketing an average of 1200% for the four-day span leading up to April 8— unusual demand for a Monday in the region's ...

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Shenandoah National Park

Colonial Williamsburg

Virginia Beach

Busch Gardens

Arlington National Cemetery

Charlottesville

Sample Virginia wine and cider

See the wild ponies

Mount Vernon

Luray Caverns

Trace Civil War history

Natural Bridge

Great Falls

Learn more about Black history

Chow down on the Salty Southern Route

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts

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14 incredible places to visit in Virginia right now

1. Shenandoah Valley

2. Shenandoah National Park

3. Richmond

4. The Colonial Triangle

5. Chincoteague

6. Virginia Beach

7. Arlington National Cemetery

8. Blue Ridge Parkway

9. Manassas National Battlefield

10. The villages of Northern Neck

11. Old Town Alexandria

12. Middleburg

13. Tangier Island

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50 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Virginia

1. Virginia Beach

2. The Natural Bridge of Virginia

3. Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center

4. Luray Caverns

5. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

6. Arlington National Cemetery

7. Frontier Culture Museum

8. Blue Ridge Parkway

9. Yorktown

10. Historic Jamestowne

11. South Boundary Stone

12. Busch Gardens

13. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello

14. Military Aviation Museum

15. Norfolk Botanical Garden

16. Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

17. Manassas National Battlefield Park

18. The Mariner’s Museum and Park

19. Assateague Island

20. George Washington Birthplace National Monument

21. Shenandoah National Park

22. Great Falls Park

23. National Firearms Museum