Show Me A Map Of Virginia
Top Attractions
If you’re a history buff, the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area is a must-visit. This living history museum takes you back in time to the 18th century. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers stunning views of the ocean and a lively atmosphere. The Shenandoah National Park is perfect for nature lovers, offering hiking and camping opportunities.
Hidden Gems
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond has an impressive collection of art from around the world. The Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke is a lesser-known gem, featuring contemporary art exhibitions. The Virginia Creeper Trail in Abingdon is a scenic bike trail that’s off the beaten path.
Food Scene
Virginia is known for its seafood, particularly its blue crabs. Be sure to try them at one of the many seafood restaurants along the coast. If you’re in Richmond, don’t miss out on trying some classic Southern comfort food at Mama J’s Kitchen. The Virginia Wine Trail offers a chance to taste some of the state’s best wines.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Many of Virginia’s museums and historical sites offer free admission. Take advantage of the natural beauty of the state by exploring its parks and hiking trails. Food trucks are a great way to try local cuisine without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Adventures
Besides hiking and camping in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The Virginia Creeper Trail mentioned earlier is also a great option for biking enthusiasts. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that offers stunning views of the state’s mountains.
Historical Landmarks
Virginia played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and the Civil War. Visit the Jamestown Settlement to learn about the first permanent English settlement in America. The Appomattox Court House National Historical Park is where the Civil War ended. Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, is also a popular historical site.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach is a great place for kids to learn about marine life. Busch Gardens in Williamsburg offers amusement park rides and shows. The Natural Bridge Zoo in Natural Bridge has a variety of animals and offers safari rides.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge offers a chance to see animals up close and personal on a drive-through safari. The Luray Caverns in Luray are a fascinating underground cave system. The Virginia Museum of the Civil War in New Market is a lesser-known historical site that’s worth a visit.
Natural Wonders
Besides Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia has other natural wonders to explore. The Natural Bridge in Natural Bridge is a stunning rock formation that’s over 200 feet tall. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a unique wetland ecosystem that’s worth a visit.
Vibrant Nightlife
Richmond has a lively nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Virginia Beach also offers a variety of nightlife options, from beach bars to dance clubs. The Downtown Mall in Charlottesville is a pedestrian-only area with restaurants, bars, and shops.
Local Markets
The Charlottesville City Market is a popular farmer’s market that’s open on Saturdays. The South of the James Market in Richmond is another great farmer’s market that’s open on Saturdays. The Virginia Beach Farmers Market is open year-round and offers a variety of products.
Beaches and Mountains
Virginia Beach is the state’s most popular beach destination, but there are other options as well. Chincoteague Island on the Eastern Shore offers a more laid-back beach experience. The Shenandoah Valley offers stunning mountain views and a variety of outdoor activities.
Cultural Immersion
The Virginia Opera in Norfolk offers world-class opera performances. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra in Virginia Beach is another great option for music lovers. The Virginia Folklife Program in Richmond showcases the state’s diverse cultural traditions.
Art and Music Scene
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, mentioned earlier, offers a variety of art exhibitions. The National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle has a collection of art and artifacts related to the Marine Corps. The Lockn’ Festival in Arrington is a popular music festival that takes place in August.
Walking Tours
The Historic Richmond Foundation offers walking tours of the city’s historic neighborhoods. The Roanoke Valley Preservation Foundation offers walking tours of Roanoke’s historic districts. The Alexandria Archaeology Museum in Alexandria offers walking tours of the city’s archaeological sites.
Architectural Marvels
The Virginia State Capitol in Richmond is a beautiful neoclassical building that’s worth a visit. The Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk is housed in a stunning Art Deco building. The Thomas Jefferson-designed Rotunda at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historical Sites
Besides the historical sites mentioned earlier, Virginia has other important sites to visit. The Booker T. Washington National Monument in Hardy is where the famous African American educator was born into slavery. The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site in Richmond is where the first female bank president in the United States lived.
Biking Routes
Besides the Virginia Creeper Trail mentioned earlier, Virginia has other great biking routes. The Capital Trail in Richmond is a 52-mile trail that connects the city with Jamestown. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk also has a bike path.
Wellness Retreats
The Boar’s Head Resort in Charlottesville offers a variety of spa services and wellness programs. The Primland Resort in Meadows of Dan offers yoga and meditation classes, as well as outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg offers a variety of spa services and fitness classes.
Adventure Sports
Besides hiking, biking, and water sports, Virginia offers other adventure sports. The Massanutten Resort in Massanutten offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia, which is close to the Virginia border, is a popular spot for BASE jumping.
With so much to see and do in Virginia, this comprehensive travel guide should give you a great starting point for planning your trip. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or adventure, Virginia has something for everyone.