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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.

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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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25 Best Places to Visit in Virginia

Last Edited on March 14, 2024

Old Town Alexandria

The Torpedo Factory Art Center, which was an actual torpedo factory in World War II, is now a creative space for over eighty artists, and visitors can watch them as they create modern masterpieces.

Virginia Beach

Back Bay National Wildlife Preserve connects visitors with nature and offers the chance to see wild horses, feral pigs, loggerhead turtles, and bald eagles in their natural habitat.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Williamsburg, VA

Shenandoah National Park

The park has a multitude of wild creatures, including black bears, coyote, beavers, foxes, deer, and cougars, and over 200 species of birds, including wild turkeys, tufted titmice, Carolina chickadees, and barred owls. Browse our Weekend Getaways in Virginia guide for more ideas.

Abingdon, Virginia

In town, the center of arts and culture is the Barter Theater, which has been in use since 1933 and has hosted actors such as Gregory Peck, Hume Cronyn, and Ernest Borgnine. Things to Do in Abingdon

Many visitors come to see the headquarters of Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson or to ride horses in the mountains led by guides at the Rocking S Ranch. Things to Do in Winchester

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

More ideas: Virginia Mountains

George Washington Birthplace National Monument

More ideas: Things to Do in Virginia

Charlottesville

The outdoors are perfect for kayaking on the James or the Rivanna Rivers, hiking or cycling on miles of trails, taking scenic drives, or visiting one of the many orchards in the region.

Staunton, Virginia for Couples

Staunton has several art schools, a university, and historic houses in the old part of town. Things to Do in Staunton

Richmond, Virginia

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has fine collections covering 5,000 years of art from around the world. Things to Do in Richmond

The Chrysler Museum of Art is one of the finest in the world and has paintings by noteworthy artists such as Rubens, Matisse, Manet, Cezanne, and Gaugin.

Mill Mountain has a beautifully landscaped park, a zoo, and hiking trails, and it is a perfect family destination.

Virginia’s Natural Bridge Park

More ideas: Virginia Beaches

Manassas National Battlefield Park

More ideas: Virginia Hotels

More ideas: Day Trips from Virginia

Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historic Park

More ideas: Things to Do in Manassas

Appomattox Court House National Historic Park

More ideas: Things to Do in Middleburg

Blue Ridge Parkway

More ideas: Things to do in West Virginia

More ideas: Things to Do in Smithfield

Virginia Creeper Trail

More ideas: West Virginia lakes

Luray Caverns

More ideas: Day trips from Richmond, VA

• 1. Old Town Alexandria
• 2. Virginia Beach
• 3. Williamsburg, Virginia
• 4. Shenandoah National Park
• 5. Abingdon, Virginia
• 6. Winchester
• 7. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
• 8. George Washington Birthplace National Monument
• 9. Charlottesville
• 10. Staunton, Virginia for Couples
• 11. Richmond, Virginia
• 12. Norfolk
• 13. Roanoke
• 14. Virginia’s Natural Bridge Park
• 15. Manassas National Battlefield Park
• 16. Bristol
• 17. Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historic Park
• 18. Appomattox Court House National Historic Park
• 19. Blue Ridge Parkway
• 20. Smithfield
• 21. Virginia Creeper Trail
• 22. Luray Caverns

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14 incredible places to visit in Virginia right now

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

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.

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).

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

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

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

Virginia State Parks / flickr

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

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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

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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!

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.

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/

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

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

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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Washington, D.C.: Many of Virginia's most popular tourist destinations complement the historic and political attractions in and around Washington, D.C. , a metropolis which has spread well into its neighboring states. In addition to iconic landmarks like the Capitol Building, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial, the District of Columbia is home to some of the most legendary museums in the world, the Smithsonian Museums. This makes the nation's capital one of the most visited family destinations, and tourists can find a wide variety of places to stay in and around D.C.

Maryland : The small coastal state of Maryland sits on the other side of the District of Columbia, bordering the capital city on three sides and sharing a long border with Virginia. It is home to the city of Baltimore , known for its extensive museums, historic landmarks, and cultural riches. Nearby, you will also find the smaller but charming Annapolis , which is full of things to see and do, from historic sites to spectacular sailing.

Delaware: Also within a reasonable drive from northern Virginia, the tiny state of Delaware provides a refreshing retreat along the Atlantic. Delaware is well known for its maritime history and cultural attractions, but equally popular for its abundance of fine beaches , revered for their calm waters along the protected shores of Delaware Bay . As a result, the state has become a top summer vacation destination for families and couples, and offers a variety of excellent resorts.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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. 

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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!

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.

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.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Virginia (VA) » 25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Virginia

25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Virginia

As the motto goes, Virginia is for Lovers, and there’s much to love in a state that crams a wealth of extremely beautiful places, from secluded Atlantic beaches to Appalachian mountainscapes.

Virginia’s rich history endows it with a kind of serene beauty, in the colonial architecture of Williamsburg and Alexandria, or the private estates of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, two of eight presidents to hail from this state.

Something I have to point out about the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, is how easy it is to get to some truly extraordinary locations.

First, Skyline Drive follows the ridge through Shenandoah National Park for more than 100 miles, and at the southernmost point, this connects with the Blue Ridge Parkway, meandering from one dramatic overlook to the next for another 200+ miles along its Virginia half.

1. Shenandoah National Park

Heading up my list is a national park on a giant tranche of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Long and relatively narrow, Shenandoah National Park traces the range’s ridgeline, and you could say that the park’s backbone is Skyline Drive.

This is the road trip of a lifetime, with as many as 75 scenic overlooks along just over 100 miles of road.

From this elevation you can see across the Shenandoah Valley on the west side, and Piedmont plateau to the east, with boundless views of autumn foliage that will stop you in your tracks in fall.

The same spectacular rocky outcrops along the road can also be seen on the Appalachian Trail, which also traces the ridgeline for 101 miles through the park, and is part of a 500-mile trail system.

If you only have time for one short hike from Skyline Drive, the Dark Hollow Falls Trail leads to the foot of a 70-foot cascade ensconced in hardwood forest.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

Not so much a place as a series of spellbinding experiences, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway begins where Skyline Drive ends, at Rockfish Gap, and winds through astounding mountainscapes for almost 217 miles before entering North Carolina.

On average, the Blue Ridge Parkway has a formal scenic overlook for every 2.69 miles of road, but there’s much more than a chain of mountain vistas.

To give you an idea of the sheer weight of extraordinary places on America’s Favorite Drive, many of the locations in my article are either on or near this National Parkway.

To name a couple there’s the Peaks of Otter and Roanoke. And for some other necessary stops you’ve got Humpback Rock with its pastoral farmland, the pristine Sherando Lake, and the idyllic water-powered Mabry Mill.

3. Charlottesville

For a more refined kind of beauty, I don’t think you can look past Charlottesville, which is considered Virginia’s cultural center and listed as one of the best places to live in Virginia .

A figure who will always be associated with Charlottesville is the third president and renaissance man Thomas Jefferson, who built his own estate, Monticello, on the edge of the city.

Jefferson also founded and planned the University of Virginia (UVA), which now forms a joint UNESCO World Heritage Site with his home.

In Charlottesville you’ll get to know Jefferson as a figure of the Enlightenment, and his ideals inform everything from the area’s historic architecture to the curriculum at UVA.

Also keep in mind that enslaved people built much of what you see, and made sure Monticello and UVA functioned smoothly right up to the Civil War.

Charlottesville is a major center for entertainment, shopping and dining, but also benefits from being in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with vineyards, horse farms and lots of opportunities for outdoor pursuits.

4. Luray Caverns

Officially the largest cavern attraction on the East Coast, the Luray Caverns are a necessary detour on Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive.

These chambers, acclaimed for their dazzling array of stalagmites, stalactites and flowstone, has wowed all-comers since it was first discovered by Euro-Americans in 1878.

In particular, there’s a wealth of flowstone drapery here, a standout being the mesmerizing Saracen’s Tent, which has an almost gossamer quality.

Then there’s Dream Lake, the surface of which is so reflective it’s almost impossible to the true depth (just 20 inches), while the self-guided tour comes to an end at the Great Stalactite Organ, a functioning instrument using the cave’s formations and covering 3.5 acres.

My pro tip is to bring something long-sleeved if you’re visiting in summer, as the temperature in the Luray Caverns is 54 °F all year.

On the surface there’s a handful of other attractions to check out, like the Car & Carriage Museum , and the living history of the Shenandoah Heritage Village.

5. Great Falls Park

Just 14 miles upriver from Washington, D.C. the Potomac bounces down a flight of jagged cascades about 500 feet long before entering the narrow Mather Gorge.

An expanse of the Virginia bank of the Potomac is a National Park Service site, with perfect vantage points of this surprisingly rugged natural feature.

You can check out the Great Falls along 15 miles of trails, but as a fan of historic infrastructure I’m also inspired by the human history of this place.

The park is the site of the Patowmack Canal, built in the late 19th-century to bypass this treacherous stretch of river.

This was the very first waterway in the United States to use a lock system, and operated until 1828. Spring through fall, the east-facing walls of Mather Gorge offer some of the most developed rock climbing in the area.

6. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

By my reckoning, the most beautiful seascapes in Virginia are on the 37-mile Assateague Island, which crosses over into Maryland .

The Virginia section is protected as the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is 14,000 acres of flawless sandy beaches, dunes, salt marshes, and tracts of maritime forest growing on old dunes.

Contributing to the wild allure of the island is the Chincoteague pony, a breed of feral horse that has most likely been here since the 17th century, living on salt marsh plants and shrubs.

In the course of a year around 320 birds nest or stop at the national wildlife refuge, and one attractive year-round inhabitant is the snow egret, seen pecking around the salt marsh.

7. Natural Bridge State Park

Thomas Jefferson was such a big fan of this natural wonder that he purchased the property in 1774, and entertained guests here for decades afterwards.

Earlier, Natural Bridge is believed to have been surveyed by a young George Washington in the mid-18th century, who may or may not be responsible for the initials G.W. carved into the rock.

Captured by many landscape artists in the 19th century, this majestic natural arch is 215 feet high, with a span of 90 feet. The formation is part of a karst gorge, hollowed by Cedar Creek over many millennia.

Although Natural Bridge is the headline, it’s one of a few reasons to visit the state park, including the 30-foot Lace Falls, the rugged scenery along the gorge, and a replica village for the Monacan Native Americans, for whom the Natural Bridge was a sacred site.

8. Peaks of Otter

In the best possible way, it’s a stop-start journey traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, and I recommend taking as much time out as possible to experience this trio of dominant mountaintops, once praised by Thomas Jefferson.

He even speculated that they were the tallest in North America. Of course, we know better now, but it’s easy to see why the Peaks of Otter made such an impression. Sharp Top, Flat Top and Harkening Hill are all on National Park Service land.

The most striking is Sharp Top, and you can either hike a pretty grueling 1.5 mile trail to the top, with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet, or hop on a shuttle bus that takes you much closer to the summit.

Before you start exploring the area, head to the visitor center where you can get hold of a trail map detailing the seven routes on the peaks, taking in a waterfall , high crags, meadows, lakes, riparian environments and parcels of old-growth forest.

9. Williamsburg

Dating back to 1632, Williamsburg was colonial Virginia’s capital from 1699 until 1780, and in the 1920s was the site of an historic restoration project on an incredible scale.

The result is Colonial Williamsburg, the most popular visitor attraction in Virginia, with hundreds of restored or rebuilt buildings on more than 300 acres.

One truly painstaking project was the reconstruction of the Governor’s Palace (1706), which served as a home for Thomas Jefferson when he was governor after the Revolution. Jefferson was educated at Williamsburg’s College of William & Mary, founded in 1693.

The Sir Christopher Wren Building (1700) here, designed by the architect behind London’s St Paul’s Cathedral, is the oldest academic building in continuous use in the United States. Williamsburg is part of the Historic Triangle, including Jamestown and Yorktown, both minutes away and steeped in the nation’s early history.

10. Virginia Beach

On the southern cusp of Chesapeake Bay is a fun-loving coastal city with mile after mile of sandy beaches 300 feet wide.

The clue is in the name, because there’s no better spot for a beach vacation in Virginia . Something that will strike you is how arrow-straight the shoreline is, disappearing into the distance north and south.

For three miles the beach is backed by a bustling boardwalk, stretching a full 40 city blocks, and a vibrant place to hang out and watch the world go by on a summer’s day.

For a slower pace and a bit more seclusion, Sandbridge Beach, about 15 miles down the coast, is a dune-edged piece of paradise.

Be sure to also check out my guide on what to do in Virginia Beach .

11. Grayson Highlands State Park

Virginia’s highest peak, Mount Rogers (5,729 ft) rears up next to this area of breathtaking high-elevation wilderness.

The mixed evergreen and hardwood forest here could be mistaken for the Alps, but the most memorable scenery, to my mind, is on the balds.

These are windswept mountain meadows, made all the more atmospheric by craggy outcroppings. Grazing on the balds is a herd of wild ponies, which add to the beauty of this unique place, but need to be admired from a distance.

The Grayson Highlands can be a harsh environment, and this also part of its appeal, but it’s important to stay abreast of weather forecasts.

See also :  24 Amazing Hidden Gems in Virginia

12. McAfee Knob

One of the best short hikes on the Appalachian Trail brings you to this high rocky ledge, 3,197 feet above sea level.

McAfee Knob is claimed to be the most photographed location on the entire trail, jutting out of the Catawba Valley, with a 270° view that also encompasses the Roanoke Valley in the east, the Tinker Cliffs to the north, and North Mountain in the west.

If you can make the hike early or late in the day you’ll be treated to a scene of astonishing beauty.

The hike is eight miles out and back from the parking lot to the south, and my common sense advice is to bring plenty of water, and come on a weekday so you don’t have to share this stunning scene with too many people.

13. George Washington’s Mount Vernon

With splendor and historical significance in equal measure, George Washington’s estate is on a plot by the Potomac about 15 miles south of the nation’s capital.

Expert restoration work has returned the interior of the Palladian mansion, built in 1758, to its appearance when the first president and his wife lived here.

Touring the house and the grounds you’ll learn tons of fascinating details. My favorite piece of trivia is that the boxwood hedges lining the entry path descend from cuttings imported from England and planted by George Washington in 1786.

You’ll get a feel for life on an 18th-century farm, with costumed living history interpreters, a functioning blacksmith’s shop, and heritage horse breeds grazing in riverside fields.

There’s cause for reflection too, as among the outbuildings are the quarters for Mount Vernon’s enslaved families, while the burial ground for the estate’s enslaved men, women and children has been preserved.

14. Alexandria

Downstream from Washington, D.C. on the Potomac, Alexandria is a gorgeous little waterfront city founded in 1749.

A big part of this place’s charm comes from Old Town Alexandria, the third oldest historic district in the United States, bursting at the seams with stately 18th and 19th-century townhouses, on cobblestone streets and red-brick sidewalks.

I love the ambience on King Street, a mile-long artery where a lot of the city’s restaurants, museums and boutiques are congregated.

On the waterfront, a 1920s torpedo factory has become an art studio complex, and there’s a water taxi scooting along the Potomac between Alexandria, Georgetown and National Harbor MD.

15. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

A massive, steamy swamp once took up a million acres, south of Chesapeake and bleeding into North Carolina.

Although much of the Great Dismal Swamp has been lost to development, a substantial piece has been safeguarded as a national wildlife refuge, on more than 110,000 acres.

Recognized by the image of noble bald cypresses on foggy Lake Drummond, I find this classic southern swamp has a sparser more ethereal beauty compared to say Appalachian Mountainscapes.

You can cross big swaths of the refuge on boardwalks, and take a boating trip along the Dismal Swamp Canal, excavated at the turn of the 19th century.

The birdlife is sensational, with more than 220 species documented during the spring migration, while summers bring more than 65 species of butterfly.

Also read :  15 Best Lakes in Virginia

16. Natural Tunnel State Park

It can be hard to wrap your head around the idea of a natural limestone cave so enormous that it is used as a railroad tunnel.

This amazing natural formation, 850 feet long, 200 feet wide and 80 feet high, has been sculpted over hundreds of thousands of years by dissolution and also erosion thanks to an underground river.

The Natural Tunnel has drawn awestruck visitors for well over a century, and it is thought that the first Euro-American to lay eyes on this scene was the frontiersman Daniel Boone.

You can tour the cave, but you’ll also want as much time as possible to appreciate the size of this limestone ridge, with its broad chasm enclosed by towering pinnacles.

17. Roanoke

The Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway pass by close to this endearing city, wrapped in epic mountain scenery.

To underline that fact you’ve got Mill Mountain, a highly prominent peak within the city limits, climbing steeply over the Roanoke River.

Since 1949 the summit has been capped by a one-of-a-kind landmark—the world’s largest freestanding manmade star, 88.5 feet tall, with neon lights visible for 60 miles around.

The overlook in front of the Mill Mountain Star has an almost vertical vista of downtown Roanoke, with a hazy ridgeline in the distance.

Now known for a burgeoning food and craft beverage scene, Roanoke is a comfortable foothold for some fun in the mountains, whether you’re hiking, biking, or paddling.

You may also like my post on the best day trips from Roanoke .

18. First Landing State Park

More people visit this coastal property at the entrance to Chesapeake Bay than any other state park in Virginia.

Close to where Christopher Newport and the Virginia Company colonists first stepped ashore in 1607, before heading upriver to establish Jamestown, First Landing State Park has a gorgeous beach, low dunes, cypress swamp, salt marsh, lagoons, and fragile maritime forest.

The beach faces into the bay, so is shielded from the Atlantic surf and has calm waters that are just right for swimming and paddleboarding, and for children to play in safety.

The full diversity of ecosystems at the park can be discovered on 19 miles of trails, and you can extend your stay at a campsite or cabin.

19. Maymont

In the 1920s the wealthy couple James and Sallie Dooley left their grand Victorian estate to the people of Richmond.

Perched above the James River, Maymont is a delight, with its opulent mansion, a captivating Japanese garden, a terraced Italian Renaissance garden, and a variety of newer attractions that have helped make it all an essential day out over the last century.

For instance, there’s a set of wildlife habitats where you can see species native to Virginia, like bison, elk, black bears, and several birds of prey.

Maymont Farm is a dose of pastoral Virginia in the middle of the city, and has all kinds of barnyard animals, including goats, which can be fed by hand.

20. Devil’s Bathtub

Up in the Appalachian Mountains in the very west of Virginia, the Devils Fork Conservation Area protects more than 4,500 acres of rocky upland wilderness, explored along trails and old logging roads.

In this landscape you’ll come across a place of uncommon natural beauty. The Devil’s Bathtub is a natural swimming hole, with clear aquamarine waters and curving walls of layered rock.

There are actually two pools, both fed by waterfalls, and the main swimming hole is reached by climbing the first set of falls.

I recommend avoiding the hike during periods of high water, as the conditions can be hazardous after sustained wet weather.

21. Burke’s Garden

The Appalachian Trail passes along the rim of this giant ovular depression at the top of a mountain.

With the evocative nickname, God’s Thumbprint, this lush, crater-like feature is the highest valley in Virginia, at some 3,000 feet above sea level.

Burke’s Garden was formed when subterranean limestone caverns collapsed, creating a dip measuring 8.5 miles in length and 4.5 miles across.

With mountain ridges on the horizon in every direction, and a medley of hardwoods, fertile farmland, marsh and grassland, it’s a necessary detour in Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains.

The scenery is best experienced by bike along a designated 12-mile loop, while there are wonderful views into the bowl from the Appalachian Trail.

22. Breaks Interstate Park

Embedded in the Appalachian Mountains on the VA / KY line is a cloud-wreathed canyon that was named by Daniel Boone when he passed through in 1767.

Here the snaking Russell Fork has hollowed out a gigantic “break” from the sandstone, between 830 and 1,600 feet deep and continuing for five miles. Winding trails, all connecting with State Route 702, lead to a set of inspiring overlooks.

A rare joint-operated state park on a single property, Breaks Interstate Park has no lack of amenities, with an olympic size pool, an 80+ room lodge, a large campground, and a visitor center with exhibits about the gorge and the area’s history and ecology.

On weekends in October, a torrent of water is released from the John Flannagan Dam and Reservoir upstream, creating high-quality and not to mention highly challenging conditions for whitewater rafting.

23. Sand Cave, Ewing

My pick for a less trafficked spot is within the huge boundaries of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, straddling the tri-state area in the far west of Virginia. If you’re willing to put in the steps, a four-mile hike will bring you to a geological wonder.

At Sand Cave, the winds have eaten away at a sandstone overhang, forming a massive chamber 250-feet across.

True to its name, the floor of this natural dome is laid with sand, and you can look up and study the curious erosion patterns and the colorful patterns in the rock.

Climb to the back for an awesome photo of the lush forest at the cave’s opening. On the same trail, Sand Cave is only a short hike from the high ridge at White Rocks, right on the VA/KY line, with views into all three states.

24. Westmoreland State Park

There’s a gentle beauty to this property on a broad and fast-changing stretch of the Potomac River, being molded by the water as I type.

Westmoreland State Park has about 1 ½ miles of shorefront, with sandy beaches broken up by sedimentary cliffs.

Horsehead Cliffs here give you a clear view across the water to Maryland, but are also special for the fossils they yield at lower levels, chiseled out by the tides.

Fossil Beach on the east side is a fun place to search for shark’s teeth, and you don’t need to be a paleontologist to make a discovery.

Cabins and campsites available in the summer, and there’s real historical interest with the birthplaces of George Washington and Robert E. Lee a matter of minutes away.

Also read :  15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Virginia

25. Staunton River State Park

Closing out my list is a little slice of heaven on the largest body of freshwater in Virginia. Kerr Lake covers around 50,000 acres, and was impounded by the John H. Kerr Dam, completed in 1952.

The state park dates back well before, and was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s at what was then the confluence of the Staunton and Dan rivers.

Head to this relaxing place for camping, aquatic activities, and hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on 17+ miles of multi-use trails.

Maybe Staunton River State Park’s greatest asset becomes clear once the sun goes down, as this is a designated International Dark Sky Park and a stargazer’s dream in a sparsely populated corner of Virginia.

25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Virginia:

• Shenandoah National Park
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Charlottesville
• Luray Caverns
• Great Falls Park
• Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
• Natural Bridge State Park
• Peaks of Otter
• Williamsburg
• Virginia Beach
• Grayson Highlands State Park
• McAfee Knob
• George Washington’s Mount Vernon
• Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
• Natural Tunnel State Park
• First Landing State Park
• Devil’s Bathtub
• Burke’s Garden
• Breaks Interstate Park
• Sand Cave, Ewing
• Westmoreland State Park
• Staunton River State Park

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Interesting Virginia Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns And More!)

July 30, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for interesting Virginia day trips? Then you’ve come to the right place! This list is full of some of the best day trips in Virginia. Virginia is a gorgeous Southern state that is full of fun and unique things to do. It is especially awesome if you are a history buff. So much of Virginia’s history is tied into the history of the forming of the United States of America and some of the country’s earliest presidents.

Even if American history isn’t really your thing, we guarantee there is something fun in Virginia for you to enjoy. Some of these day trips in Virginia are centered around its natural beauty, while others highlight the unique history of the state. We’ve also included some fun day trips in Virginia for families as well as fun day trips in Virginia for couples.

We’ve also made sure to include interesting and fun Virginia day trips for the history buffs, outdoor lovers, and thrill-seekers. Virginia truly does have something for everyone! So, let’s take a look at 15 interesting Virginia day trips!

Assateague Island National Seashore

For those looking for Virginia day trips that are fun for the whole family, consider taking a trip to Assateague Island National Seashore . Assateague Island is a portion of National Park that is in both Maryland and Virginia. If you want to make this an extended trip and go camping at Assateague, you’ll need to go to the Maryland portion of the park. Assateague Island is best known for its abundance of wild horses roaming the park.

However, if you are just going for a fun day on the National Seashore, you’ll find plenty to do in the Virginia portion of the National Park. If you are thinking of visiting during the summer months you can expect to see wild foals along with wild horses. You can also go swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. When you visit the seashore during the colder months, you’ll still be able to see wild horses, and you may even still be able to enjoy some watersports. There are also hiking and biking trails and you can of course walk along the seashore. It’s easily one of the best day trips in Virginia for families

Monticello is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg. It is also one of the best Virginia day trips for history buffs. For those that don’t know, Monticello was the primary home and plantation of Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was a founding father and also served as the third President of the United States. It is important to remember when visiting Monticello that it was a plantation and Jefferson did have enslaved peoples working on the property. Please be respectful of that history if you go to tour the home.

When you visit Monticello, you’ll find that they do not try to hide the plantation’s dark past. Instead, you will learn about slavery at the time and how Jefferson profited immensely from this dark practice. As you tour Monticello, you will be reminded that it was built on the backs of enslaved peoples.

This is set against the backdrop of learning about Jefferson and his family life while living in the home. It is often an eye-opening way to look at the history of one of the Founding Fathers. You’ll see how that history has shaped the United States of America as a whole. We guarantee you will leave Monticello having learned something new and impactful.

Luray Caverns

If you are looking for one of the best day trips from Richmond, head to Luray Caverns . The Luray Caverns have been a popular tourist attraction in Virginia since the cave system was found in 1878. Now, it is one of the most popular attractions in Virginia for those who want to walk down into the depths of Virginia’s underground cave systems. Because it is so popular, you’ll want to make sure you plan to get tickets ahead of time, or have a flexible schedule so you can get tickets for whatever time slots are still available the day of your visit.

The tickets range in price and depend on your age. The caverns also offer various discounts. Luray Caverns are the largest caverns in the Eastern United States and you’ll find some truly spectacular underground rock formations.

The walkways along the tour are all paved and lighted. You’ll walk through a cavern room with a ceiling that is ten stories high, optical illusion rooms, and layers of folded rock. It is called the Geologist Hall of Fame, and once you step foot in the caverns you’ll easily see why.

Colonial Williamsburg

One of the coolest historical places in Virginia is Colonial Williamsburg . It is also one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. When you need a break from the sandy shores, you can’t go wrong with a quick trip to Colonial Williamsburg. At Colonial Williamsburg, you’ll find the World’s Largest Living History Museum. As you walk all through the Colonial town you’ll find reenactors posing as people who would have originally lived there.

It is a full-scale working village with a blacksmith, potter, baker, brickmaker, farms, and other shops that would have been included in a typical Colonial town. At each one, you’ll find a skilled reenactor who will tell you about the process for creating their goods and wares during the Colonial period. There are also shops where you can purchase the products that are made right there in town. You’ll also find restaurants with delicious period-accurate food, guided walking tours, and even guided ghost tours. It’s one of the coolest places to visit in Virginia in one day and a really fun day trip from Virginia Beach.

The Poe Museum

Edgar Allan Poe lived in a few Southern cities and one of those is Richmond Virginia. In Richmond, you can learn more about Poe’s life in Virginia at The Poe Museum . It is where Poe started his literary career and he spent a lot of his life in Richmond writing. Although he moved to Baltimore at the end of his life before his mysterious death, Richmond is where he called home the longest.

The Richmond Poe Museum is one of many Poe Museums in the United States. What makes it different, and one of the most interesting Virginia day trips, is its collection. The Poe Museum in Richmond has the largest collection of Poe artifacts in the world. Inside you can see Poe’s childhood bed, several articles of his clothing, and personal letters. You can also see the famous image of Poe known as the Cornwell Daguerreotype. You can even see a lock of Poe’s hair! It is one of the best day trips from Richmond and is a really cool way to learn about one of America’s most famous authors.

Shenandoah National Park And The Skyline Drive

The Shenandoah National Park is one of the best day trips from Northern Virginia. You’ll also be close to Charlottesville, so it’s a great option for day trips from Charlottesville as well. It is one of Virginia’s most beautiful landscapes full of waterfalls, iconic mountains, and gorgeous fields of wildflowers and grasses. If you don’t have a lot of time on your day trip in Virginia, take Skyline Drive. The Skyline Drive takes you through Virginia’s section of the Appalachian Mountains through Shenandoah National Park and eventually meets the Blue Ridge Parkway.

As you travel on Skyline Drive you’ll be able to stop into cute Virginia small towns, admire the view at scenic overlooks, and even go hiking. It’s one of the best National Parks in Virginia. It easily welcomes millions of visitors all year to enjoy its stunning views and landscapes. One of the best times to go is during the Peak Season. This is when the Fall foliage in Shenandoah is at its peak. It’s a beautiful time to visit, but because of that, it can get very busy. So keep that in mind when you plan your Shenandoah National Park drive .

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is one of the best day trips from Richmond for families and thrill-seekers. For those that don’t know, Busch Gardens is a fun amusement park that is very popular. Busch Gardens is also a great option for day trips from Williamsburg. It is technically in Williamsburg, but it’s a bit outside of the city center.

There are a few Busch Gardens parks in the US, and the one in Virginia has a European theme. So as you walk from ride to ride you’ll feel like you’re walking through quaint European villages. A lot of the food vendors and souvenir shops are also full of European influences.

It is also one of the best day trips in Virginia for families. There are plenty of rides and cool things to do in the park that the kids will love. There is also a waterpark, a petting zoo, and throughout the park, during the day you’ll find animal exhibits. For the adults, there is plenty to do as well. Every year the amusement park hosts an epic Oktoberfest celebration.

It is also one of the few amusement parks in the US where you can buy alcohol throughout the day, all year. That’s because the park is owned by Anheuser-Busch, the beer bottling company. No matter your age, you’ll find that Busch Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Virginia in one day.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

If you are close to Charlottesville and looking for something fun to do, consider taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway . The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stretch of road that starts in Virginia and continues down into North Carolina. It follows the Appalachian Mountains, and in particular, the Blue Ridge Mountains within the Appalachian Mountain range. It’s one of the best day trips from Charlottesville if you want to see some spectacular views.

Depending on where you hop onto the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s also a great place to add to your list of day trips from Roanoke. All along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll find scenic overlooks , easy to difficult hiking trails , cascading waterfalls, and so much more. Depending on how much time you have, you can even venture into North Carolina and drive the parkway for a bit before heading back towards Richmond. As you drive the parkway you can stop in some cute small towns if you’re not up for a more adventurous day trip in Virginia.

Mill Mountain Star And Park

One of the most famous attractions in Roanoke is the Mill Mountain Star. The Mill Mountain Star can be found in Mill Mountain Park and is easily one of the best things to do in Roanoke when you visit. It also makes for one of the best day trips from Roanoke since it’s not necessarily right in the city center.

The Mill Mountain Star is a 90-foot star-shaped structure that lights up. It’s sort of like the Hollywood sign of Roanoke. It has been lighting up the mountainside since the 1950s, so it’s become a pretty iconic piece of Roanoke history. At the Star, you’ll get to see some beautiful views of the city of Roanoke.

Because the Mill Mountain Star is located in a public park, you’ll find other things to do there as well. At the park, you can go hiking, and you’ll need to do a little hiking if you want to get up close to the Star. But there is also a zoo, playground, Discovery Center, and a native wildflower garden. It is one of the best day trips in Virginia for families, but it’s also fun for all ages.

George Washington National Forest

The George Washington National Forest is one of the best National Parks in Virginia . It is also one of the best options for day trips from Richmond if you’re looking to escape the city. It’s a popular camping weekend getaway in Virginia , but it can easily be a fun day trip in Virginia as well. Because it is close to Richmond, it’s one of the more popular National Parks in Virginia, so keep that in mind when you are planning your day trip. Depending on the season, you may encounter more crowds.

The park includes miles of hiking and biking trails and there are also lakes and rivers. In the Summer months, you can enjoy watersports in the lakes in rivers, like swimming, kayaking, and boating. There are also certain trails where you can go horseback riding. One of the coolest things to do in the National Forest is going hang gliding. It’s the perfect activity for the thrill-seekers looking for just a little extra jolt of fun at the George Washington National Forest. Of course, the forest is gorgeous in the Fall and you can still enjoy a ton of activities in the forest in Winter and Spring.

Barboursville Ruins And Winery

Barboursville was once one of the finest are largest private residences in Virginia. But on Christmas Day in 1884, a devastating fire ripped through the home and almost completely destroyed it. Since that day in 1884, Barboursville has been preserved as ruins and is one of the best day trips from Charlottesville. What makes it so special is that is the only known structure in Orange County, where it is located, to be designed by Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States and a prominent member of Virginia society, both before and after his presidency.

The ruins are registered as National Historic Places and are actually one of the day trips in Virginia for couples. That is because the ruins are now home to one of the best wineries in Virginia. The Barboursville Winery was established on the ground in 1976 and has since become a well-recognized winery by wine connoisseurs. You’ll find the tasting room and visitors center just steps from the Barboursville Ruins.

On the grounds, you’ll also find a restaurant that is perfect for one of the prettiest romantic day trips in Virginia. You and your partner can enjoy a day exploring the historic grounds, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy a delicious meal. In the Summer, you can also catch ‘Shakespeare in the Ruins’. A local Shakespeare performing company uses the ruins of Barboursville as a stage. The play changes yearly, so you can come back for a different experience every year. The Barboursville ruins are definitely one of the best day trips in Virginia for Couples and easily one of the most romantic day trips in Virginia.

Historic Jamestown and Yorktown

On your list of day trips from Williamsburg , you absolutely need to add a trip to Historic Jamestown and Yorktown. You can drive about 30 minutes outside of Williamsburg and end up in Historic Jamestown or Yorktown, which is part of the ‘Historic Triangle’ in Virginia. Because they are all so close together, we suggest making this a historic tour day trip from Williamsburg. Start in Historic Jamestown, which was originally founded in 1607 by European immigrants.

Jamestown was the first permanent settlement in America for those making the journey from various countries in Europe. You’ll find a living history museum, similar to Colonial Williamsburg, but on a smaller scale. There is also a reconstructed Native American village alongside a Colonial fort, so you can see how Native Americans and European immigrants would have lived in the early 1600s in the area.

In Yorktown, there is another similar site. However, Yorktown wasn’t founded until 1691, over 80 years later. You’ll notice some similarities, but also plenty of differences as generations learned what did and didn’t work in the area. The town is probably best known as the site of the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. It’s where the American Revolution is said to have finally ended, with the surrender of English General Cornwallis. While you are in Yorktown, you can tour the battlefield as well as the American Revolution Museum. A journey to the two historic cities is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg.

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

The Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is actually in three states; West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia. Depending on what you’re interested in, the different states offer different experiences. The Maryland section is mainly hiking trails and scenic views along the Potomac River.

West Virginia and Virginia share the section of the park that has some really cool historic buildings. Harpers Ferry is truly one of the best small towns in West Virginia that you should explore.

Because of its location, it’s a great option for day trips from Northern Virginia.

Just like so many other places to visit in Virginia in one day, the National Historic Park is bursting with history. You’ll find a historic town with 19th-century buildings and see what it was like to live in a port town. There are living history events, local artisans, and more. You’ll also find hiking and biking trails as well as enjoy watersports like swimming, kayaking, and boating.

Keep in mind that when you are planning your trip, you may find that the trailheads or destinations you have in mind may be across the border in either Maryland or West Virginia. Either way, it’s still one of the most fun day trips in Virginia.

Make sure to check out our list of things to do in Harpers Ferry!

Mariners’ Museum And Park

If you’re looking for interesting day trips in Virginia for families, consider a day at the Mariners’ Museum and Park. It is close to Virginia Beach, so it’s one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. The Mariners’ Museum is in Newport News which is just about an hour inland, so you won’t have to travel too far to learn about Virginia’s interesting maritime history.

Throughout the museum, you’ll find exhibits that are interesting to both the youngest and oldest members of the family. On certain days of the week, kids can enjoy storytime with a maritime theme. There are also hands-on exhibits, crafts, and more that they can do while they are learning about Virginia’s maritime history.

There are also plenty of more in-depth exhibits for the older members of the family. One of the coolest areas of the museum is the gallery of Ship Models that show popular ship designs through the centuries. The Mariners Park is free to the public and is considered to be a beautiful woodland oasis. Inside the park, you can stroll along the popular Nolan Trail, admire nature, or stop for a picnic lunch at the Lions bridge. Mariners’ Museum and Park are absolutely one of the best day trips in Virginia for families!

Cape Henry Lighthouse

Thanks to popular novels, lighthouses have become an almost romantic iconic image along the sandy shores of any beach town. If you’re looking for some romantic day trips in Virginia, you and your partner can spend the day exploring the historic lighthouse at Cape Henry. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is within 15 minutes of Virginia Beach, which also makes it one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach for you and your partner to take.

At the Cape Henry Lighthouse, you can take a tour of the lighthouse, climb up to the top, and explore the grounds around the lighthouse as well. The lighthouse is one of the oldest in the country and was commissioned by George Washington with Alexander Hamilton overseeing its building. It was built close to where European immigrants first landed before establishing the Jamestown colony. If you are looking for day trips in Virginia for couples who like a little bit of history and the beach. It’s also one of the most interesting Virginia day trips.

With so much history and culture in the state, it is easy to make a list of fun places to visit in Virginia in one day. We hope you enjoyed this list of unique historic sites, hidden gems, and small towns that are spread throughout the beautiful state. You can’t go wrong taking a day to explore these amazing spots on your next Virginia day trip.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Virginia

Home to some of the most interesting historic tourist attractions in the whole of the States, Virginia is a fascinating place to explore. The first state to be settled in 1607, it later played a major role in the Revolutionary War, American Civil War and the Civil Rights movement. As such, a myriad of monuments, memorials and museums can be found almost everywhere you go.

Among the best places to visit in Virginia are several colonial cities with a rich history, such as Charlottesville and Williamsburg, and the state also has stupendous scenery to enjoy.

Map of Places to Visit in Virginia

In the west, for instance, you can find the awe-inspiring Appalachian Mountains, while the Atlantic Ocean coastline features beautiful beaches and lively resort towns. With the spectacular Shenandoah National Park and outstanding outdoor activities, Virginia is a rich and rewarding state to explore.

10. Roanoke

Located in a vast valley amidst the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, the charming city of Roanoke is a treat to visit and explore. It is often called the ‘Star City of the South’, due to the colossal lit star atop the mighty Mill Mountain that shines out over its streets and suburbs.

Historically an important transport hub thanks to its strategic setting in the southwest of the state, in recent years the city has developed a thriving arts and culture scene. There are now theaters and cultural centers to check out, as well as many music venues and museums.

Of these, the Taubman Museum of Art is well worth visiting for its huge collection of artworks, while the Virginia Museum of Transportation showcases the history of Roanoke’s railway.

Although home to several attractions and an increasing number of excellent restaurants, most people use Roanoke as a base to explore the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway and the endless Appalachian Trail.

Known for being home to the largest naval base in the world, the city of Norfolk has much more to it. World-class museums and pretty parks are found along its winding waterfront. Set in the southeast of the state, it lies at the heart of a major metropolitan area and is surrounded by the cities of Chesapeake, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach.

As the city is located on the banks of the Chesapeake Bay and the Elizabeth River, its history has been shaped by its relationship to the waters around it. Once considered a raucous and rowdy port town, it now sports several sparkling state-of-the-art museums. Additionally, there are some phenomenal performing arts centers with exciting entertainment options

As well as the wonderful Waterfront District and captivating Chrysler Museum of Art, visitors can stop by Nauticus, a marvelous maritime center which hosts the incredible USS Wisconsin. With historic homes dotted about and beautiful beaches to enjoy, Norfolk certainly has a lot going for it.

8. Charlottesville

Consistently ranked one of the best places to live in the States, the charming college town of Charlottesville is just as picturesque to visit as a tourist. Known for its wealth of interesting historic sights, it acts as a major cultural center for the region. It’s also home to the prestigious University of Virginia and its pretty campus.

As well as boasting beautiful buildings and arresting architecture, the small city has historic homes of two US presidents for you to tour. While the former residence of James Monroe is quite modest, Thomas Jefferson’s majestic Monticello plantation has gorgeous grounds and gardens to wander.

It was the latter too who founded the University of Virginia and designed many of its grand Greek and Roman-style buildings. Its remarkable Rotunda is one of the city’s standout sights. Thanks to its sizable student population, Charlottesville has a lively, youthful and cultured feel to it. Its quaint countryside surroundings are also dotted with wonderful wineries.

7. Mount Vernon

Nestled in the northeast of Virginia is Mount Vernon, the plantation home of George Washington, the first president of the United States. Due to its proximity to Washington, DC , and huge historical importance, it attracts millions of visitors each year.

Set in a scenic spot overlooking the Potomac River, the expansive estate was the home of Washington from 1754, until he died in 1799. The outbuildings and gardens are a treat to explore and have demonstrations on how the plantation worked. But the highlight is the massive mansion at its heart which was designed and decorated by the great man himself.

Full of fabulous furnishings, family portraits and period pieces, and over 20 rooms, visitors will get an insight into this influential figure’s life. You can also learn more about him and his achievements at the site’s museum and education center, as well as pay your respects at the moving George and Martha Washington memorial.

6. Richmond

One of the oldest cities in the States, Richmond has been the capital of Virginia since 1780. It is awash with interesting and impressive historic sights, many of them relating to the role it played in the American Civil War.

Set on the banks of the James River, its scenic streets have astounding antebellum architecture for you to enjoy, with magnificent monuments, museums and memorials dotted about. Must-see sights include its centuries-old State Capitol and the sensational St. John’s Church. Here Patrick Henry famously gave his ‘Give me liberty or give me death speech’ during the Revolutionary War.

Besides exploring its array of American Civil War sites, visitors can also stop by one of its craft breweries or live music venues. With lovely riverside walks, and even white water rafting to be had on the James River, Richmond is certainly not stuck in the past. It has a wealth of fun and exciting things for you to see and do.

5. Arlington

Situated across the Potomac River from Washington, DC is the densely populated county of Arlington . Made up of endless urban sprawl and picturesque parks along its winding riverfront, it is home to the Pentagon and the Arlington National Cemetery.

Established during the American Civil War, it is in the Arlington National Cemetery that many of the most famous figures from the United States’ history are buried. As well as the grave of President John F. Kennedy, the most visited sites in the cemetery include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Iwo Jima Memorial. Besides being moving monuments to those who lost their lives, these memorials are amongst the State’s most renowned and visited landmarks.

In the cemetery, you can find the attractive Arlington House, while the imposing Pentagon can be spied just outside it. Visitors need to book in advance if they want to take an informative and engaging tour around the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense.

4. Alexandria

Set just to the south of both Arlington and Washington, DC is the town of Alexandria boasting one of the best-preserved historic districts in the country. Founded in 1749 on the western bank of the Potomac River, it has charming cobbled streets to explore.

As well as exhibiting early American architecture, the beautiful buildings of the Old Town also house boutiques and antique shops. Dotted about its quaint center are cafes and restaurants to try out with a host of handsome historic homes to visit. The centuries-old Christ Church and the grand George Washington Masonic National Memorial are among the most popular; both are National Historic Landmarks.

While Alexandria is now a very pretty and pleasant place to visit, it was also once the site of the second-largest slave market in the States. Visitors can learn about this at the Alexandria Black History Museum and Freedom House Museum; both of which have superb exhibitions on the history of the city.

3. Virginia Beach

With almost 60 kilometers of sun-kissed sandy shores, it is no wonder that Virginia Beach is a popular holiday destination. Located at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, its attractive Atlantic Ocean coastline offers up an astounding array of attractions, as well as a wealth of water sports.

Lining the broad, beautiful beach are hotels and motels, as well as an oceanfront boardwalk dotted with souvenir shops and seafood restaurants. As well as a great place for a stroll, cycle or skate, it has mini-golf, arcades, amusement rides and live entertainment. Also, the Virginia Aquarium and Ocean Breeze Waterpark are close by.

While it has some great museums and galleries, most people come for the beach or to go kayaking, surfing and whale watching. With lovely hikes and nature to be enjoyed at the nearby Black Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Virginia Beach caters to all ages and interests.

2. Williamsburg

Once the capital of the Colony and Commonwealth of Virginia, Williamsburg is renowned for its rich history, and the role it played in the American Revolution. Set in the southeast on the vast Virginia Peninsula, it is home to captivating Colonial Williamsburg, one of the largest living-history museums in the world.

Wandering about the historic district is a delight as you pass beautiful old brick buildings and colonial-era churches and houses. As well as seeing the state’s first capitol building and the Governor’s Palace, you can also gain insight into the culture of the time by watching historical reenactors at work.

You can also visit pretty plantations along the James River and the charming campus of the College of William and Mary. The university’s sizable student population lends the modern part of the city a lively and youthful feel.

1. Shenandoah National Park

Nestled in the north of the state is the stunning Shenandoah National Park, sure to delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Home to spectacular scenery and nature, it is a treat to explore with epic hiking and views.

Protected and preserved since 1935, its vast forests cover part of the rugged Blue Ridge Mountains, looking out over both the Shenandoah Valley and the winding river down below. Weaving along the ridge of the narrow park is the delightful Skyline Drive, stretching 169 kilometers in length and featuring some phenomenal viewpoints.

The picturesque park also has scenic trails to hike, mountain bike or horseback ride; with the Appalachian Trail being the most famous of the lot. With fantastic fishing, camping and wildlife watching also on offer, Shenandoah is one of the best national parks in the country.

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15 Best Places To Visit In Virginia, According To Locals

From a national park to a wine trail, here are the best places to visit in virginia, according to local experts. plan your visit now..

By: Lydia Mansel Published: Mar 06, 2024 10:12 AM IST

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 visit. 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.”

No matter which region you’re travelling 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.

Here are the best places to visit in Virginia 

Natural bridge.

Travellers 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

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

“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.

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

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 (804 km) 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

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

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.

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 .”

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.”

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

“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

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.

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Ashby gap and sky meadows state park.

“Just about an hour outside of Washington DC , 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

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. Travellers 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.

Book your stay at The Omni Homestead Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Omni Homestead Resort via agoda.com

Shenandoah National Park

Reuter Engle says travellers can expect “picturesque hiking” in Shenandoah National Park, where 500 miles (804 km) 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 (14 km) loop trail that’s labelled as “difficult.” If you can handle a bit of rock scrambling, though, the views are completely worth the climb.

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 .

Book your stay at The Red Fox Inn & Tavern via agoda.com

shop the best travel experiences here

(Feature Image Credit: Hal Chen/500px/Getty Images)

This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

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Discover the Beauty of Virginia: 19 Best Places to Visit in Virginia

Table of Contents

Virginia is a state of stunning natural beauty, from its vibrant coastline dotted with historical towns to its rolling green hills and verdant forests.

With miles of trails for biking, hiking, and camping, crystal-clear rivers perfect for fishing or floating lazily down on a tube, and some of the most captivating cityscapes in the United States, there’s something here for everyone who seeks an exploration into all that nature has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for places to visit to commune with nature or enjoy vibrant cities filled with culture and history – from colonial days to modern hotspots like Richmond – Virginia beckons with its undeniable charm. Read on below for our picks of the 19 best places to visit in Virginia !

Virginia Beach

Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello

Busch Gardens

Luray Caverns, Shenandoah Valley

Natural Bridge State Park

Richmond National Battlefield Park

Immerse yourself in history at Richmond National Battlefield Park – a national historic landmark located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia. This park is one of the best historical attractions; it commemorates and preserves all aspects, from battles to fortifications to leaders and everything else involved in America’s Civil War between 1861-1865.

Step into this incredible place to learn about soldiers, civilians, and more who were part of this pivotal conflict.

The park features arrowhead and circular trenches, fortifications, and even a reconstructed earthwork from the Civil War. There are also hiking trails and nature walks where visitors can explore various landscapes and observe wildlife. The park is ideal for learning more about this momentous event in American history.

Richmond National Battlefield Park also hosts special events throughout the year, including living history programs, guided tours, and more.

Colonial Williamsburg

Explorers of early Americana should look no further than Colonial Williamsburg: a living-history museum that offers an unmatched opportunity to travel back in time. Here, visitors can explore 18th-century architecture as it existed and experience life during the colonial era with costumed interpreters who bring this period’s history alive!

If a history-filled journey is what you seek or simply want to spend an entertaining day out, Colonial Williamsburg proves ideal. Take pleasure in visiting Revolutionary City and the colonial living farm, participating in exclusive events and programs, and riding on horse carriages – all of this plus more awaits your visit!

George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Located in Westmoreland County, Northern Virginia, the George Washington Birthplace National Monument is a tribute to the US first president. It is the site of George Washington’s birth in 1732, and today you can explore the museum, reconstructed farm buildings, and memorial hall.

The George Washington Birthplace National Monument is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering educational programs, special events, and guided tours that provide insight into the origins of America’s nation-founders. Discover the history behind our country’s early days as well as its first capital city at this unique monument.

Whether you’re seeking a vigorous outdoor hike or an unhurried meander, the paths of this monument are certain to provide you with moments that will forever remain embedded in your memory. Its tranquil woodlands and meadows provide scenic vistas, while indicative monuments and markers guide travelers through the area’s history.

Arlington National Cemetery

Dating back to the latter half of the 19th century, when America was embroiled in civil war, lies a rich history behind Arlington Military Cemetery. In May 1864, in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, a bloody battle occurred between the North and the South troops. 

The Federated States forces’ losses amounted to more than three thousand people. So, an urgent problem arose – where to bury many such people. First, war cemeteries in Washington, DC, and Alexandria were filled to capacity. And then, the authorities decided to use land in Arlington to create a new cemetery. Ironically, this piece of land belonged to General Robert E. Lee, the commander of the hostile Confederate army.

Today, here, on 300 hectares, there are more than 400 thousand graves. They stretch in smooth white lines along the green Virginian hills, like soldiers frozen forever in the ranks at the command “Attention!”.

Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center 

Come and be amazed by the wonderous aquatic world of Virginia Beach’s renowned Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center! From majestic sharks to serene dolphins, you can witness an array of captivating marine life from both the Atlantic as well as the Chesapeake Bay. So don’t hesitate any longer – dive into this unique ocean paradise today!

Whether your interest is educational or recreational, this aquarium provides unparalleled access to unique underwater worlds that are rarely seen on land. Come explore today and experience something extraordinary!

The Aquarium also features interactive exhibits, educational shows and activities, a 3D IMAX theater, and more. In addition, programs for all ages show the importance of conservation, sustainability, and the protection of our aquatic habitats.

With its incredible exhibits and educational programs, the Virginia Aquarium is ideal for the whole family!

Frontier Culture Museum

For those looking for an enriching and educational experience, the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton Virginia, is your ideal destination. This open-air museum strives to pay tribute to early European immigrants who laid roots in America during the 1700s and 1800s – a unique opportunity to explore history up close!

Through interactive exhibits, programs, and events, visitors can learn about the customs and lifestyles of early settlers from England, Germany, Ireland, and Scotland. The Frontier Culture Museum is a great place to take your family for an educational and fun day out with its authentic farm buildings, living history demonstrations, and engaging activities.

Virginia Creeper Trail

Dare to discover the 34-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, a breathtaking biking and hiking path that begins in Whitetop, VA, and ends in Abingdon. Along your journey, you will be met with panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains, rolling hillsides draped with lush greenery, and captivating forests. Experience an unparalleled adventure like no other!

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice cyclist, the Creeper Trail is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of Virginia. The trail also passes through several small towns, offering restaurants, national parks, antique shops, galleries with fine arts, and other amenities along the way.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. It’s home to an impressive variety of majestic wintering waterfowls like swans, geese, ducks, and shorebirds – making it one of the largest concentrations of these birds in the mid-Atlantic region.

It’s also the only place to find wild Chincoteague ponies. In addition, the Refuge is an excellent destination for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and beachcombing. There are miles of trails, boardwalks, and numerous observation decks, giving you the perfect day out!

US Marine Corps War Memorial

Standing proudly in a picturesque park near Arlington Cemetery lies the Marine Corps War Memorial, also referred to as the “Jojima Island Memorial”. This awe-inspiring structure is regarded as one of America’s most impressive war memorials.

On February 23, 1945, a group of Marines valiantly marched up the volcanic peak on Yojima Island and planted a small American flag firmly on its summit. After successfully liberating the island from Japanese forces, five courageous marines and one orderly raised an even larger banner that was captured forever by military journalist Rosenthal-which would later win him the Pulitzer Prize for such an incredible photograph.

The sculptor Felix de Velden, who served in the US Navy, was so moved by the legendary photograph that he decided to give it the appearance of a sculpture. In 1954, a sculptural composition 24 meters high was erected.

Military Aviation Museum

There are many museums dedicated to aviation or the army. Both attract avid collectors and hobby enthusiasts, but this museum in Virginia Beach offers the best of both worlds.

Dedicated to World War I and World War II winged vehicles, this museum houses one of the world’s largest private collections of historic aircraft. And this is not a hangar full of rusty “buckets of nuts” at all: all the exhibits have been lovingly restored using original parts or exact copies, returning them to their former glory.

The result is a breathtakingly beautiful aircraft display that looks like they’ve just been rolled out of the factory floor. Thanks to such a thorough and excellent restoration, all the exhibits are in working condition and even participate in the air show.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Embark on a breathtaking journey along the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway that traverses through Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Marvel at majestic mountain views and ancient forests as you explore endless opportunities for outdoor activities!

Make your way through charming villages, historic monuments, and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains with a leisurely drive along the Parkway. Take stops to explore its myriad of hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds while admiring stunning views of cascading waterfalls. The Parkway is an ideal road trip for all ages that will surely be remembered for years to come!

Manassas National Battlefield Park

The next stop on your Virginia adventure is Manassas National Battlefield Park. Nestled within Prince William County, Manassas National Battlefield Park offers an incomparable look into the two epic battles of the American Civil War: the First Battle of Bull Run and the Second Battle of Bull Run.

This breathtaking park is your go-to destination to better understand these pivotal events in US history!

The park features an extensive Virginia Museum and Visitor Center, with interactive exhibits and artifacts from the war. Travelers can also explore the battlefields on foot or by car to better understand the events happening here.

Potomac River

Those who love to be outdoors will find the Potomac River a haven for activities like canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and sightseeing. This stunning river meanders through Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC – offering an abundance of possibilities to revel in nature’s beauty.

Admire Maryland and Virginia’s breathtaking wetlands and woodlands from the comfort of a boat tour! And if you’re looking for more ways to explore, take in the spectacular views of Potomac’s jagged cliffs, rocky shorelines, and lush meadows through one of many trails that line its banks.

With its serene atmosphere and variety of wildlife, the Potomac River is an ideal spot for anyone looking to relax in nature’s beauty. Here you can observe majestic bald eagles, ospreys, and other creatures as they go about their daily lives. So if you’re seeking peace and tranquility, explore this great river!

Bottom Line

Virginia is a wonderland for history buffs, outdoor adventurers, and flying aficionados alike. With attractions ranging from the renowned Virginia Beach to the magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway, there’s something for everyone here in this marvelous state!

For those passionate about aviation and military heritage, you’ll find plenty of options, such as the Military Aviation Museum or take a trip down the Potomac River! From culture to nature –Virginia has it all waiting for you.

So if you’re looking for a place to explore, make sure to check out Virginia! With so many tourist attractions you won’t be disappointed.

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12 Best Places To Eat In Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke is best known for its proximity to over 1,000 miles of world-class hiking and biking in the Blue Ridge Mountains , but the culinary scene in this southwest Virginia city is also on the rise. In addition to farm-to-fork dining and craft cocktails, restaurants are churning out locally-made brews, Southern-inspired fare, and organic vegetarian cuisine. The combination of raw talent and proximity to local farms has turned Roanoke into a bona-fide dining destination—one you won’t want to miss.

Here are some of the best restaurants to try on your next visit to Roanoke, in no particular order.

Bloom Restaurant and Wine Bar

If you like vegetables, then you will love the seasonally driven small plates at Bloom, a modern American restaurant and wine bar in the Wasena neighborhood. You might find sautéed spaghetti squash served on a bed of charred hay crème fraiche topped with shaved gouda; sliced beets tossed with hazelnuts and drunken goat cheese; or roasted butternut squash crumbled with pumpkin seed dukkah atop quinoa pilaf. Classic cheese and charcuterie plates pair elegantly with the European-leaning wine menu as do expertly prepared proteins, such as an 18-hour braised beef, which are available in both small and large portions.

bloomrke.com , 1109 Main St SW, Roanoke, VA 24015

Bread Craft Bakery

Plan to arrive at Bread Craft when it opens—promptly at 8 a.m.—to optimize your selection of breads and pastries, which vary daily based on a baking schedule posted on the bakery’s website. Jewish Rye as well as Miche, a round-shaped sourdough variety, are available on Thursdays whereas sweeter options like cinnamon rolls and sticky buns make the rounds on Saturdays. A breakfast and lunch menu featuring egg dishes, maple French toast, and freshly prepared sandwiches is also available for counter service or carry-out.

breadcraftbakery.com , 24 Church Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24011

Crystal Spring Grocery Co.

This gourmet market cum café with indoor and patio seating is the ideal spot to stock up before or after a hike in the neighboring Blue Ridge Mountains. Made-to-order lunch items such as a crispy chicken sandwich with local honey on a brioche bun or griddled pepper jack and cheddar cheese on sourdough are available between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Customers can select seasonally inspired salads and house-made soups from the grab-and-go section in addition to an array of snacks from the grocery aisles. Organic wine and craft beer are also available.

csgrocery.com , 2205 Crystal Spring Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24014

Fruits and Roots

The first brick-and-mortar location for this Historic Roanoke City Market vendor is bright and cheerful with a handful of tables inside. Fruits and Roots, an organic eatery, offers cold-pressed fruit and vegetable juices, plant-based treats, smoothies, and bowls. Sample a classic açaí bowl topped with house-made vegan granola or the Nutty Green smoothie blended with bananas, blueberries, spinach, hemp seeds, peanut butter, and almond milk. Don’t forget to grab a pack of organic energy bites or a gluten-free muffin on your way out. 

facebook.com/fruitsandrootsroanoke , 122 Campbell Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011

Lucky Restaurant

Ask anyone in Roanoke where to go for a craft cocktail and chances are high, they’ll send you straight to Lucky. For over a decade, this restaurant has built a reputation around its beverages as well as its high-end comfort food. Try a unique concoction from the bar, such as the “Stede Bonnet,” fashioned with Seedlip Grove 42, sorrel, jasmine green tea, green cardamom, adjusted orange, aquafaba, and champagne. The dinner options are just as enticing; a four-course prix fixe menu featuring the likes of fried green tomatoes, roasted bone marrow, and smoked meatloaf, among other dishes.

eatatlucky.com , 18 Kirk Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24011

RND Coffee Lounge

Roasters Next Door (RND) is the place to get your caffeine fix in town. An independently owned small batch roastery with locations in Wasena and neighboring Vinton, RND emphasizes a variety of single-origin blends from around the world including Ethiopia, Columbia, Nicaragua, and Brazil. Coffee is available by the cup or to purchase by the pound. Stop in for a quick sip or linger with your laptop at one of the tables; the friendly staff won’t mind. RND is open daily from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m.

roanokecoffee.com , 1114 Main St SW, Roanoke, VA 24015

Scratch Biscuit Co.

No reservations are necessary at this casual breakfast standout in historic Grandin Village. Southern-style biscuits are baked from scratch daily and offered with an array of accompaniments, like eggs and sausage, alongside sweet dishes such as French toast and pancakes. Feeling ambitious? Order The Cowboy Crippler, an eight-inch-wide biscuit loaded high with country-fried sausage, beef brisket, pulled pork, hash browns, and cheese.

scratchbiscuit.com , 1820 Memorial Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24015

This downtown Roanoke gem transports with a European-themed menu and upscale gastropub vibe. You’ll find classic steak frites, tender duck confit, and Normandy-style mussels. Groups will appreciate shareable appetizers such as Bavarian pretzels and charcuterie platters. Don’t miss the handmade sausages, available individually or in platters of four, served with all the traditional accouterments. Fancy a cocktail first? You’ll find an assortment of old-world-inspired beverages, European wines, and imported beers at the bar.

sidecarva.com , 411 1st St SW, Roanoke, VA 24011

Fire Station One, a boutique hotel housed inside a historic firehouse, offers an intriguing newcomer to Roanoke’s diverse restaurant scene. Stock Café features a Nordic and Scandinavian-themed menu. Think: cocktails produced with lingonberry and Kapsalon, a Dutch fast-food dish assembled with hand-cut fries, chicken shawarma, gouda, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, garlic sauce, and sambal. You’ll also find authentic plates like varieties of Smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced rye bread sandwich; fried pork schnitzel; and whole roasted trout accompanied by potato rösti and crème fraiche.

firestationone.com/stock , 13 Church Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011

The Green Goat

Visiting Roanoke with children in tow? Head to The Green Goat for a casual lunch or dinner. The restaurant’s outdoor seating ranges from picnic benches to Adirondack chairs at this eatery located on the Roanoke River Greenway in the eastern corner of Wasena Park around the corner from the basketball court and skate park. The American menu features crowd-pleasers such as wings, waffle fries, and deviled eggs, rounded out with a variety of salads, sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas.

greengoatroanoke.org , 802 Wiley Dr SW, Roanoke, VA 24015

The River and Rail

The River and Rail is a local favorite for traditional Southern fare sourced from the Roanoke and New River Valleys. As you might expect, the menu rotates regularly based on what’s fresh and in season. Begin, for example, with a Virginia oyster wrap sculpted with organic Bibb lettuce, house-made kimchi remoulade, shaved radish, and chives or the applewood smoked heritage pork ribs with sorghum and peanuts. Save room for protein-rich mains, such as wild striped bass or dry-aged duck breast, as well as dessert options like handmade ice creams and sorbet.

riverandrailrestaurant.com , 2201 Crystal Spring Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24014

Viet Sub proves that delicious food doesn’t require a fancy interior or table service. This pint-sized restaurant has some of the most authentic Vietnamese food around, including an Instagrammable Banh Mi lathered with mayo, chicken liver pâté, ham, carrots, daikon radish, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper. Classic dishes such as pho, rice vermicelli bowls, spring rolls, and dumplings also grace the menu. Order yours at the counter for take away or to eat in.

www.vietsubroanoke.com , 1403 Williamson Rd NE, Roanoke, VA 24012

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I've been to all 50 states. Here are the 10 I think everyone should visit at least once.

• Over the past decade, I've traveled solo to all 50 US states and most major US national parks.
• Although I've found beauty in every state, there are some that I want to visit over and over again.
• I love traveling to places like New Mexico, Montana, New Hampshire, and Arizona.

Over the past decade, I've successfully visited all 50 US states solo. I've even made it to most of the major US national parks along the way. Because of this journey, I'm often asked which states I'd recommend to travelers.

Although most international travelers gravitate toward states like Florida and New York , I've found fantastic beauty and history in every state.

However, these are the 10 states I always return to.

New Mexico boasts a surprising variety of stunning landscapes.

New Mexico is always at the top of my list when recommending US states. Nicknamed " the land of enchantment ," it lives up to its moniker — and then some.

Those who haven't visited New Mexico may think of the state as a mostly barren desert, but it's actually the diverse landscapes that keep me coming back.

From the otherworldly dunes of White Sands National Park to the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there's beauty to be found around every corner.

Outside the natural beauty, the state is chock full of history, art, food, wine, and culture.

Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

With its vast open spaces, majestic mountains, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

The state is home to the breathtaking Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park . The sky is vast and open, the mountains are towering, and the lack of development makes me feel like I'm entering another world entirely.

California is full of diverse landscapes and experiences.

Every time I visit California , I feel like I'm entering a completely different reality.

The sheer size and diversity of the state are impressive, and it has gorgeous beaches, cities, forests, deserts, mountains, and even volcanoes.

I love road-tripping up the coast, visiting Yosemite National Park, taking a boat to the Channel Islands, and wine tasting in places like Napa and Sonoma.

There's no place quite like the Maine coast.

There's so much to love about Maine, but my favorite part of the state is the coast. With jagged and dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and lobster shacks, visiting the Maine coast is an unforgettable experience.

It's easy to find peace in the state that sees the first sunrise of the year and is home to Acadia National Park, which is one of the country's most popular national parks.

I love to road trip up the coast, stopping in beautiful towns like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbour, and Lubec.

I've returned to West Virginia multiple times.

While it may not get as much attention as some of the other states on this list, I've returned to West Virginia multiple times since my first visit.

The state's natural beauty is stunning, from New River Gorge National Park to ample lush forests, underground caverns, historic small towns, and over 200 waterfalls .

Wisconsin is home to beautiful scenery and great dining options.

Wisconsin has so much more than first meets the eye, from the natural beauty of the Apostle Islands and the 15,000 lakes in the state to the classic cheese curds, breweries, and wineries that dot the landscape.

I love spending time along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, dining at one of the state's famous supper clubs, and exploring the many Wisconsin state parks.

As my home state, Colorado will always hold a special place in my heart.

I couldn't write a list like this without including my home state of Colorado. The state has so much to offer, from beautiful views to fun activities.

On the Front Range, I enjoy hiking in Boulder and exploring Cheyenne Cañon. I like to spend the night at the The Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs before heading over to Great Sand Dunes National Park.

In the Rockies, I love driving Independence Pass to Aspen, as well as exploring the underrated Grand Mesa, which is the biggest flat-top mountain in the world . I also enjoy taking road trips to the charming mountain towns of Telluride, Buena Vista, and Steamboat Springs.

No matter where you find yourself in Colorado, there's no shortage of incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Utah is home to five major national parks.

Utah is a state that you have to see to believe. With five major national parks, 46 state parks, 15 ski resorts, and hidden gems at every turn — you'll never get bored here.

I love visiting Moab to hike in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park before heading south to Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Zion National Park .

I also love making stops in Park City and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

New Hampshire boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

The Northeast is famous for fall foliage, but I can't help but think that New Hampshire is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbors, Maine and Vermont.

I was stunned by its natural beauty during my first trip to the state. From the White Mountains to Franconia Notch State Park, the state boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

Arizona is the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

Arizona is well known for the Grand Canyon, but the state has much more to offer. From Flagstaff's high-altitude forests to Sedona's iconic red rocks, Arizona's diversity is surprising and worth a trip.

I love hiking among the cacti in Sedona or Scottsdale before heading to one of the many resorts to jump in a pool or hit the spa — the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

• Main content

Watch CBS News

Maps show where trillions of cicadas will emerge in the U.S. this spring

By Caitlin O'Kane

Updated on: April 11, 2024 / 4:30 PM EDT / CBS News

Trillions of periodical cicadas will emerge from the ground this spring, bringing with them their loud buzzing and molted exoskeletons. Here's where you will be able to see cicadas in the U.S. 

When are the cicadas coming in 2024?

There are two groups of periodical cicadas — those that emerge every 13 years and those that emerge every 17 years. For most of their lives, cicadas live underground and then emerge once the soil reaches 64 degrees. 

Because they are temperature-dependent, their emergences may vary depending on the location. In 2024, they are expected sometime in May or early June, according to Ken Johnson, a horticulture educator at the  University of Illinois.

Since it may warm up faster in southern states, such as South Carolina, the cicadas might emerge as soon as April, while in cooler states, such as those in the upper Midwest, they might not emerge until June. 

This year, both the 13-year and the 17-year cicadas will emerge, arriving in numbers that have not been seen in generations.

They mate, molt and then die, leaving behind their offspring to bury themselves into the soil and lay dormant until their brood's next cycle. They only last about a month above ground, and no, they aren't dangerous. Unlike locusts, which eat plants, cicadas get their nutrients from small branches. Most trees, however, will remain unharmed. 

Still, Johnson advises not planting any new trees ahead of a periodical cicada emergence. You can put netting around small trees and shrubs to keep them away, making sure openings are no larger than 1/4 of an inch so the bugs can't get in. 

Where will cicadas be in 2024?

The 13-year cicadas, called  Brood XIX , will emerge in Georgia and the Southeast. The 17-year cicadas, called  Brood XIII , will  appear in Illinois . This will be the first time since 1803 that two broods emerged at the same time. The next time this happens will be 2037.

The overlap of these two broods has been dubbed by an expert as "cicada-geddon" — but it won't be the biggest cicada event. In 2076, the two largest broods –XIX and XIV – will come out together. "That is the cicada-palooza," University of Connecticut  cicada  expert John Cooley said.

The broods will emerge peacefully, but Cooley said hundreds of trillions, or even quadrillions, of cicadas are expected. That's an average of 1 million per acre over millions of acres. 

Some of the cicadas, however, may have come in contact with a fungal pathogen called  Massospora cicadina, which makes them hyper-sexual. The sexually transmitted fungal infection turns them into so-called "zombie cicadas," with a chalky, white plug erupting out of their bodies and making their genitals fall off. Cicada expert Matthew Kasson says it's not yet clear how the fungus impacts other wildlife, animals or humans.

"The cicada continues to participate in normal activities, like it would if it was healthy," Kasson, an associate professor of Mycology and Forest Pathology at West Virginia University, told CBS News. "Like it tries to mate, it flies around, it walks on plants. Yet, a third of its body has been replaced by fungus. That's really kind of bizarre." 

Maps show where in the U.S. to see cicadas

The dual cicada brood emergence will primarily be seen in parts of Illinois and Iowa, as well as parts of Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. 

The two broods will co-emerge in north-central Illinois for the first time since 1803.

A map from the U.S. Department of Agriculture  tracks the emergence of both the 13- and 17-year cicada broods from 2013 to 2029. 

Caitlin O'Kane is a New York City journalist who works on the CBS News social media team as a senior manager of content and production. She writes about a variety of topics and produces "The Uplift," CBS News' streaming show that focuses on good news.

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19 surprisingly cool things to do in west virginia.

From the newest national park in the U.S. to the Mothman Museum, West Virginia is increasingly intriguing.

The Top Things to Do in West Virginia

Courtesy of West Virginia Department of Tourism

"Almost Heaven, West Virginia."

The state that inspired John Denver's now-classic American anthem, does, in fact, feel a bit like Heaven (or at least what we imagine it to be). Yet it isn't a destination at top of many bucket lists, if it even has a place on those lists at all. It's time to change your mind.

Read on to discover the top things to do in West Virginia.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: Glen Jean

Getty Images

If there's only one place you can visit in West Virginia, let it be New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Born out of a COVID-19 relief bill, New River Gorge became the nation's 63rd national park in December 2020. The area – which spans more than 70,000 acres – has long been a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Its 53-mile stretch of the New River (ironically one of the oldest rivers in the world) is famous for whitewater rafting, with beginner- and family-friendly tours and rapids up to Class V, widely considered some of the most challenging to navigate.

Of course, the park also offers other ways to take in its otherworldly landscape – think scenic driving routes, hiking, biking, climbing, fishing and free ranger-led activities including junior ranger programs. Accommodation options inside the park are limited to camping, but there are plenty of hotels and resorts within a short drive.

Bridge Walk: Lansing

Whatever you do in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, don't miss the one-of-a-kind Bridge Walk, where guided tours are offered on a catwalk beneath the famous New River Gorge Bridge. The bridge towers 876 feet above the New River, but don't worry – guests are securely fastened to a cable, and tours move at a relaxed pace so you can feel comfortable (and stop for scenic views and photo ops along the way). Previous visitors say the Bridge Walk is a must in West Virginia, with some calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Participants must be at least 8 years old.

If you're feeling extra brave after mastering this walkway, you can even come back for Bridge Day, West Virginia's largest single-day festival, where thousands gather every October to watch daredevils jump off the bridge into the gorge below.

Address: 57 County Route 85/9, Lansing, WV 25862

Hatfield-McCoy Trails

The infamously bizarre Hatfield-McCoy Feud that lasted nearly 30 years (and even inspired a dinner show in Pigeon Forge ) actually took place in West Virginia and Kentucky. Today, the region in which the feud took place is now the largest trail system on the East Coast, with 1,000 miles of wooded pathways, rolling hills and quintessential Appalachian towns to explore.

Waterfall Trail

In June 2022, West Virginia launched a statewide Waterfall Trail, allowing travelers to more easily navigate some of the state's 200-plus waterfalls with a free mobile passport – plus the chance to win prizes along the way. As of 2023, there are 38 trail stops in total. These include the famous Blackwater Falls, where the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles tints the water. Not surprisingly, it's one of West Virginia's most photographed destinations.

Read: The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.

Watoga State Park

Watoga State Park was named a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2021, along with the adjacent Calvin Price State Forest and nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. Travelers who want to catch a glimpse of the nighttime light show can opt for tent camping or cabin accommodations, spring through fall.

Address: 4800 Watoga Park Road, Marlinton, WV 24954

Adventures on the Gorge: Lansing

Courtesy of Adventures on the Gorge

The ultimate experience in West Virginia, Adventures on the Gorge, is an award-winning adventure outfitter and resort on the rim of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The destination resort offers a dizzying array of outdoor activities, the most popular of which is whitewater rafting. Travelers rave about the half- and multi-day excursions for various skill levels, noting that the guides are friendly, helpful and all-around great. Adventure seekers can also enjoy zip lining and canopy tours (including a nighttime MoonTrek), rappelling, mountain biking, guided hikes, horseback riding, cave tours, laser tag and paintball. On Summersville Lake (the largest in West Virginia), there's kayaking, standup paddleboarding and multi-sport excursions that include a little bit of everything.

After an action-packed day, visitors can grab a bite to eat at any of the three on-site restaurants and retreat to their choice of accommodations, which include everything from cozy cabins to glamping tents with views of the New River Gorge Bridge and surrounding forest.

Address: 219 County Route 60/5, Lansing, WV 25862

The Greenbrier: White Sulphur Springs

Courtesy of Greenbrier County CVB

A National Historic Landmark, The Greenbrier served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the Civil War and World War II. In 1778, it became "America's Resort," first hosting wealthy Southerners, then celebrities, U.S. presidents and even royalty. You don't have to be a guest of the luxury resort (or an A-lister) to get a glimpse of it – guided hotel tours are offered – but overnight guests enjoy upscale accommodations ranging from signature guest rooms to estate homes, a roster of activities for all ages, golf, a spa, restaurants, a casino, retail shops, seasonal events and more. Whether you splurge for an overnight stay or not, don't miss the Bunker Tour, where you'll discover a former emergency fallout shelter and top-secret government relocation facility for Congress from the Cold War period.

Address: 101 W. Main St., White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986

Lost World Caverns: Lewisburg

Go 120 feet underground to explore stalagmites (some of which measure up to 80 feet tall) and stalactites at Lost World Caverns. Self-guided tours typically take about 45 minutes and are appropriate for all ages, while the Wild Cave Tour for ages 10 and up takes visitors to undeveloped parts of the caverns over the course of several hours. This attraction, which was first discovered in 1942, also includes a museum and gift shop. Previous visitors highly recommend Lost World Caverns, cautioning that the caves can be slippery and difficult to traverse in some areas, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and a light jacket .

Address: 907 Lost World Road, Lewisburg, WV 24901

Harpers Ferry

Perhaps the most well-known destination in West Virginia, Harpers Ferry is more than a quaint 19th-century town. It's a National Historic Park with Civil War sites including battlefields, remnants of campsites and, most notably, John Brown's Fort and the John Brown Museum. If you don't remember this one from history class, John Brown is the abolitionist credited with leading what's now known as the Harpers Ferry Raid, in which he attempted to start an armed revolt of enslaved people in 1859.

Harpers Ferry is also known as the psychological midpoint of the 2,178-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail and, as such, attracts thru-hikers to the historic Lower Town's restaurants and nearby vacation rentals. Other highlights in Harper's Ferry include The Point, where you can see the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers; crossing the Potomac on a pedestrian bridge to access the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park towpath; and, better still, getting out on the waters in a river tube, cold drink in hand.

Read: The Best Places to Celebrate Black History Month

Berkeley Springs State Park: Berkeley Springs

Soak in the soothing springs of this state park, known for its warm waters, which maintain a comfortable temperature of 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit, and its bathhouses, where available spa services include massages and mineral baths. The springs date back centuries, first flourishing as a health mecca for Native Americans, then drawing European settlers beginning in 1730. Several years later, George Washington discovered the healing powers of the springs and began visiting them regularly. It is largely because of him that the place now known as Berkeley Springs State Park remains the popular wellness destination it is today. Visitors praise the park and surrounding town, noting that you can see the historic Berkeley Springs Castle (reserved for private events only) from here.

Address: 2 S. Washington St., Berkeley Springs, WV 25411

Mothman Museum: Point Pleasant

In 1966, two grave diggers in Clendenin, West Virginia, reported the sighting of a strange winged figure with red eyes. Shortly after the incident, local residents began to make similar claims, with many blaming the massive creature, nicknamed the Mothman, for the 1967 Silver Bridge collapse and subsequent death of 46 people. The story was so bizarre it captured the attention of Hollywood (resulting in "The Mothman Prophecies" movie, based on a book of the same name) and inspired the Mothman Museum in the town of Point Pleasant, where the mythical creature is said to reside. The museum features original newspaper clippings, handwritten police reports, props used in the 2002 film and more. The Mothman Statue stands 12 feet tall outside of the museum, and the Mothman Festival is hosted every September. Previous patrons of the museum say it's fun and interesting, and that admission – less than $5 for adults – is cheap.

After you explore this eerie museum, spend some time in Point Pleasant, an attraction in itself with great restaurants, shopping, seasonal events and the historic (and supposedly haunted) Lowe Hotel.

Address: 400 Main St., Point Pleasant, WV 25550

World's Largest Teapot: Chester

If you're road-tripping through West Virginia, consider making a stop at this quirky attraction, which measures 12 feet high and 44 feet wide. Before achieving fame, the "World's Largest Teapot" was created as a giant keg for Hires Root Beer and then installed as a snack stand at a mini-golf course in Pennsylvania. In 1938, a man named William "Babe" Devon brought it to Chester, West Virginia. He added a spout, lid and handle so he could use the newly revamped structure to promote the region's then-booming pottery industry, selling teapots and other souvenirs from its window. The teapot went out of business around 1980, was restored by the Chester City Council in 1990, and has sat at the junction of U.S. Route 30 and State Route 2 ever since.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

West Virginia Penitentiary: Moundsville

During its 100-plus years in operation, the West Virginia Penitentiary saw riots, homicides and executions including public hangings. So it's no surprise that when the storied prison decommissioned in 1995, former prison guards began offering tours to the public. Current tour options include a Public Ghost Hunt and Private Paranormal Investigations, as the prison is said to be haunted by former inmates. You can even try your hand at an escape room game. Previous visitors confirm the prison tours are all at once creepy, informative and enjoyable. The West Virginia Penitentiary is so spooky that it's been featured in Netflix's "Mindhunter" (along with the town of Moundsville) and Hulu's "Castle Rock," among other TV shows and movies.

Address: 818 Jefferson Ave., Moundsville, WV 26041

Read: Hauntingly Abandoned Places You Can Still Visit

West Virginia State Museum: Charleston

Located in the charming state capital of Charleston, the West Virginia State Museum features informative and interactive exhibits that pay homage to the culture and history of the Mountain State. Notable artifacts on display include a pair of Billy the Kid's leather chaps and the telescope George Washington used to survey the state's lands. Previous visitors say this Charleston museum is truly impressive, with some advising you'll need a few hours to see everything it has to offer. Bonus: As a state-operated attraction, the museum is free to enter. The West Virginia State Museum also manages a few historic sites throughout the state, including West Virginia Independence Hall and Camp Washington-Carver.

Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E #435, Charleston, WV 25305

Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Beckley

Courtesy of Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine

A small, family-operated coal mine and camp from roughly 1890 to 1910 that later became a commercial endeavor until it closed in 1953, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is now a highly rated attraction in West Virginia. Previous visitors say both kids and adults enjoy exploring the former coal mines with veteran miners, who lead guided tours in authentic "man trips," the cars used in mining operations. When you emerge from the tunnels, explore the Coal Camp, with restored original buildings including the Pemberton Coal Camp Church and the Helen Coal Camp School, then stop by the Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia, which features a planetarium and a recreated homestead from the late 19th century. Admission includes the tour and access to the camp and museum. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is open from April to November, but bring a light jacket no matter when you visit as the mines can get chilly.

Address: 513 Ewart Ave., Beckley, WV 25801

Twin Falls Resort State Park: Mullens

Escape to Twin Falls Resort State Park, a destination resort with more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails (where you can see the park's namesake waterfalls), an indoor swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course and a restaurant. Overnight lodging options include camping (tents or RVs), cabins and hotel rooms. The park also features a reconstructed pioneer homestead, where guests can learn about frontier life at the attraction's working farm and gardens. Recent guests have left positive reviews of the resort, commenting that it's both beautiful and clean.

Monongahela National Forest

Another nationally protected region in West Virginia, the Monongahela National Forest spans more than 919,000 acres in 10 counties over elevations that range from 1,000 to nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. Areas of interest include Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, which features the highest peak in West Virginia, and the Dolly Sods Wilderness, notably the Bear Rocks trail. Both areas offer some of the best views in the state. Throughout the vast national forest there are ample hiking and biking trails, scenic driving routes, and places to stop for a picnic lunch. You can also go swimming, boating, fishing, horseback riding and, if you'd like to stay a few days, camping in tents, RVs or on-site cabins. A visit in the winter affords opportunities for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

NROCKS Outdoor Adventures

With so much rugged mountain landscape, it's no surprise that West Virginia has a Via Ferrata (a mountain route with permanently installed steel rungs and cables). Located near the Monongahela National Forest, NROCKS Outdoor Adventures offers guided rock-climbing tours of the Via Ferrata. Participants aged 13 and up gain 1,085 feet in elevation, cross a suspension bridge that is 150 feet high and 200 feet long, and reach exposed heights of 280 feet during the roughly 1-mile trek, which takes about 3.5 hours. Recent tourgoers say the experience is thrilling, though not for the faint of heart. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, nighttime tours are offered on select dates throughout the year.

Address: 141 County Route 28/5, Circleville, WV 26804

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: Cass

A remote destination in Pocahontas County, Cass was once a company town for loggers, who transported lumber via what's now known as the Cass Scenic Railroad. Climb aboard a historic steam-driven locomotive (operated by the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad) for a scenic ride to Bald Knob, the third-highest point in West Virginia. The train ride , which affords panoramic views of the Appalachians, lasts about 4.5 hours round trip and includes lunch. For those visiting Cass Scenic Railroad State Park with kids, previous visitors recommend the two-hour round trip to Whittaker Station, a former logging camp. Some travelers also suggest a visit in the fall to enjoy the colorful foliage . Within Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, visitors can explore the former lumbering town as well as a gift shop, restaurant, museum and theater. Overnight cabin accommodations are also available.

Address: 12363 Cass Road, Cass, WV 24927

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in West Virginia
• The Top Things to Do in Virginia
• The Most Romantic Getaways in Virginia
• The Top Things to Do in Ohio

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Solar eclipse: What we know about the Ohio eclipse path, forecast, viewing tips

Today's solar eclipse across Ohio will be one of the celestial highlights of the century.

A large portion of the state will be plunged into darkness in the middle of the day as the moon passes between the earth and sun. Ohio's eclipse path just got a bit narrower , but the event still promises to be essential viewing.

The last total solar eclipse in Ohio happened in 1806, and the next one won't happen until 2099. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many Ohioans.

We've got you covered with everything you need to know as you finalize your eclipse-viewing plans:

• The best eclipse viewing spots in Ohio
• Advanced weather forecast
• Where to get your glasses, how to tell if they're safe and how to build an eclipse viewer at home
• Safe viewing dos and don'ts
• What schools will be closed or dismissing students early

Where the eclipse will be in Ohio and the nation

• 2024 total solar eclipse: where to see it in Ohio and when it will happen
• 2024's total solar eclipse will pass through over a dozen states. Here's where to see it
• 2024 solar eclipse map: See the path of totality

What is the weather forecast on April 8, the day of the eclipse?

Clear skies make for the best eclipse-viewing weather. Will the forecast in Ohio comply?

• The proverbial ol' farmers have spoken: Weather may rain on eclipse hype in northern Ohio

Eclipse glasses -- everything you need to know

Having the proper eyewear is essential for safely viewing the eclipse. Otherwise, you risk suffering immediate and permanent eye damage. Here's what to know about eclipse-viewing options, including how to construct your own eclipse-viewing contraption at home.

Where to find eclipse glasses

• You need special glasses to see the solar eclipse. Here's where to get them in Cincinnati  
• You need a special pair of glasses to watch the solar eclipse: How to get them in Columbus
• Looking for last-minute solar eclipse glasses? These libraries and vendors can help  

How to tell if your glasses are safe

• These companies make eclipse glasses certified as safe. Here’s where you can find them
• 'That's permanent damage': special glasses needed to watch solar eclipse

How to make an eclipse-viewing device at home

• Stop worrying about finding eclipse glasses and rustle up office supplies  
• Can't find eclipse glasses? Here's how to make an eclipse box  
• No solar eclipse glasses? Try a cracker or slotted spoon  

Safe viewing dos and don't

• Here's what to know about viewing and capturing the solar eclipse with your cellphone camera
• How to safely view the solar eclipse in Mansfield  
• Optometrist: 'Serious risks' to watching eclipse — even with glasses  

Some schools will be closed on the day of the solar eclipse

Some school districts in Ohio will keep students' safety (and given them a great opportunity to experience a once-in-a-lifetime event) by keeping kids home the day of the eclipse.

• Some Ohio school districts will close for the solar eclipse in April
• Solar eclipse 2024: What central Ohio schools are canceling classes
• Summit County urges residents to stay home on the day of the eclipse
• Here's your list of Stark County schools that are closed for the April 8 eclipse  
• Marion County schools are off for the total solar eclipse on April 8
• Students get eclipse day off in Crawford County; some schools have in-service for teachers
• 2024 solar eclipse: Cincinnati, NKY schools closing. Check yours here

Ohio is preparing for an onslaught of crowds, traffic

Ohioans need to be prepared for eclipse tourists, extra traffic and perhaps supply shortages as the state becomes an eclipse hotspot.

• 'We're all going to be overwhelmed': Emergency planners bracing for April's solar eclipse
• Summit County urges residents to stay home on the day of the eclipse  
• 'Be ready for about anything': Traffic jams weekend of eclipse will fluctuate with weather  
• Ohio will see traffic jams during the April solar eclipse. Here's how to prepare for them
• Traffic is one of the top concerns for county agencies preparing for total solar eclipse  
• Total solar eclipse will draw thousands to Ohio. What does that mean for the economy?  
• Eclipse information on visitor's bureau website, lodging, camping, events and times  
• Ohioans urged to stock up on supplies, be ready for the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse

Solar eclipse: What did the 2023 solar eclipse look like? Photos show a 'ring of fire' in the sky.

What to expect as the solar eclipse descends on Ohio

April 8 will be a day hundred of years in the making for Ohio as the last total solar eclipse in the state happened in 1806. What have past eclipses been like? And what can Ohioans expect this time around?

• The dark and the light: A history of solar eclipses in Northeast Ohio
• What does a total solar eclipse look like? Photos from past events show what to expect in 2024
• While Erie waits for the 2024 total solar eclipse, a look back at 1994's ring of fire

Unique events happening in Ohio during the solar eclipse

The sky will grow dark, animals will go quiet and some couples will tie the knot during the April 8 solar eclipse in Ohio.

• April 2024 total solar eclipse will confuse animals and cause silence  
• Total eclipse of the heart: Lucky couple can get married on eclipse day April 8 in Akron