If you’re planning to visit Virginia, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. From scenic drives and historic landmarks to outdoor adventures and culinary delights, this state has it all. Here are the 28 best things to do in Virginia.
Visit Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum that takes visitors back in time to the 18th century. Here, you can experience what life was like during the American Revolution, watch historic reenactments, and learn about colonial-era trades and crafts.
Tour Monticello
Monticello was the home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. The house and grounds are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can tour the property, gardens, and slave quarters.
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that runs for 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. Along the way, you’ll see stunning vistas, historic landmarks, and plenty of wildlife.
Explore Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway and offers miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also go camping, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Discover Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its miles of sandy beaches, boardwalk, and amusement parks. Visitors can also take a dolphin watching tour, go kayaking, or visit the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center.
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Visit Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon was the home of George Washington, the first president of the United States. Visitors can tour the mansion, gardens, and museum, and learn about Washington’s life and legacy.
See the Virginia State Capitol
The Virginia State Capitol in Richmond is a historic building designed by Thomas Jefferson. Visitors can take a tour of the building, learn about Virginia’s history and government, and see the famous Capitol Square.
Learn at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a world-class art museum with over 33,000 works of art from around the world. Visitors can see paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as attend lectures and special events.
Take a Ghost Tour in Richmond
Richmond is known for its haunted history, and several companies offer ghost tours of the city’s most haunted locations. These tours are a fun and spooky way to learn about Richmond’s past.
Go to Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a theme park with roller coasters, shows, and attractions for all ages. Visitors can also see exotic animals and learn about conservation efforts.
Check Out the Luray Caverns
The Luray Caverns are a network of underground caves with stunning rock formations and natural wonders. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caverns and learn about their geology and history.
See the Natural Bridge of Virginia
The Natural Bridge of Virginia is a natural limestone arch that spans over 200 feet and stands 215 feet high. Visitors can hike to the bridge and admire its beauty, as well as learn about its significance in American history.
Go to Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is a military cemetery where thousands of soldiers, veterans, and their families are buried. Visitors can pay their respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and see the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Visit Chincoteague Island
Chincoteague Island is a charming seaside town known for its wild ponies and beautiful beaches. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the ponies, go fishing, or relax on the sand.
Explore the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is a 23-mile long engineering marvel that connects Virginia’s Eastern Shore to the mainland. Visitors can drive across the bridge-tunnel and enjoy breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Visit Appomattox Court House
Appomattox Court House is the site where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the American Civil War. Visitors can tour the historic village and learn about the events leading up to the surrender.
Learn at the Virginia Holocaust Museum
The Virginia Holocaust Museum is a museum dedicated to educating visitors about the Holocaust and its impact on the world. Visitors can see exhibits, attend lectures, and hear from survivors and their families.
See the American Civil War Museum
The American Civil War Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and legacy of the American Civil War. Visitors can see artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations that bring the war to life.
Visit the Edgar Allan Poe Museum
The Edgar Allan Poe Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous author. Visitors can see artifacts, manuscripts, and personal belongings of Poe, as well as learn about his impact on literature and culture.
Go to Virginia Safari Park
Virginia Safari Park is a drive-through safari park where visitors can see and feed over 1,000 animals from around the world. Visitors can also take a walking tour and see the zoo’s many exhibits and attractions.
Explore the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center is a world-class aquarium with over 800,000 gallons of exhibits and displays. Visitors can see sharks, sea turtles, and other marine life, as well as learn about marine science and conservation.
Visit the Virginia Aviation Museum
The Virginia Aviation Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and technology of aviation. Visitors can see vintage planes, learn about the pioneers of aviation, and experience interactive exhibits and simulators.
Take a Trip to Jamestown Settlement
Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that tells the story of the first permanent English settlement in America. Visitors can see historical reenactments, artifacts, and exhibits that bring the colonial era to life.
See the Manassas National Battlefield Park
The Manassas National Battlefield Park is a historic site where two major battles of the American Civil War were fought. Visitors can see the battlefield, monuments, and exhibits that tell the story of these pivotal conflicts.
Visit the Norfolk Botanical Garden
The Norfolk Botanical Garden is a beautiful and expansive garden that spans over 175 acres. Visitors can explore the garden’s many themed sections, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a children’s garden.
Go to Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is the historic home of America’s first president, George Washington. Visitors can tour the mansion, see the gardens and grounds, and learn about Washington’s life and legacy.
Explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a world-class art museum with over 35,000 works of art from around the world. Visitors can see paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as attend lectures and events.
Visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is an extension of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum located near Dulles International Airport. Visitors can see over 200 aircraft, including the Space Shuttle Discovery and the Enola Gay.
Go to Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum that transports visitors back to the colonial era. Visitors can see historical reenactments, tour historic buildings, and learn about life in colonial Virginia.
See the Virginia State Capitol
The Virginia State Capitol is a historic building that has been in continuous use since 1788. Visitors can tour the building and see the chambers where Virginia’s legislature meets.
Visit Monticello
Monticello is the historic home of America’s third president, Thomas Jefferson. Visitors can tour the mansion, see the gardens and grounds, and learn about Jefferson’s life and legacy.
Go to Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful park with over 500 miles of trails and scenic drives. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, and see wildlife, as well as enjoy the park’s many overlooks and waterfalls.
Explore the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a three-mile-long boardwalk that runs along the oceanfront. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy the many restaurants and shops, and soak up the sun on the beach.
See the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park
The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park is a historic site where several major battles of the American Civil War were fought. Visitors can see the battlefields, monuments, and exhibits that tell the story of these pivotal conflicts.
Visit the Virginia Living Museum
The Virginia Living Museum is a museum and zoo dedicated to the natural history of Virginia. Visitors can see animals, plants, and ecosystems native to Virginia, as well as attend educational programs and events.
Go to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can see exhibits, boats, and artifacts that tell the story of this important region.
See the Virginia Creeper Trail
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile-long trail that winds through the Appalachian Mountains. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride along the trail, and see beautiful scenery, including forests, streams, and waterfalls.
Visit the Museum of the Confederacy
The Museum of the Confederacy is a museum dedicated to the history and legacy of the Confederate States of America. Visitors can see artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations that bring this complex and controversial period of American history to life.
Overall, Virginia has a lot to offer visitors, from historic sites and museums to beautiful natural landscapes and fun attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun getaway, Virginia has something for everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Virginia is a state with a rich history, diverse natural landscapes, and plenty of attractions to explore. From visiting historic homes like Mount Vernon and Monticello to exploring beautiful gardens and parks like the Norfolk Botanical Garden and Shenandoah National Park, there is no shortage of things to do in Virginia.
Additionally, the state is home to world-class museums like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of the Confederacy, where visitors can learn about Virginia’s unique and complex history.
And for those who love the outdoors, Virginia has plenty to offer, with opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and more. The Virginia Creeper Trail and the Virginia Beach Boardwalk are just a few examples of the many scenic spots that visitors can explore.
Overall, Virginia is a great destination for anyone looking for a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. With so many attractions to choose from, it’s no wonder that Virginia is such a popular vacation spot.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Virginia?
- The best time to visit Virginia depends on your interests. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is great for outdoor activities and beach trips.
- What are some must-see historical sites in Virginia?
- Some of the top historical sites in Virginia include Mount Vernon, Monticello, Colonial Williamsburg, and the Virginia State Capitol.
- Are there any family-friendly attractions in Virginia?
- Yes, Virginia has plenty of family-friendly attractions, including the Virginia Living Museum, the Norfolk Botanical Garden, and the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
- What are some popular outdoor activities in Virginia?
- Popular outdoor activities in Virginia include hiking, camping, fishing, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
- Where can I learn more about Virginia’s history and culture?
- Virginia has many museums and historical sites where visitors can learn about the state’s rich history and culture, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of the Confederacy, and Colonial Williamsburg.
