Virginia Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit & Things to Do

Virginia is where America beganβ€”and it continues to impress with its blend of historic landmarks, vibrant cities, mountain trails, and sandy beaches. Whether you're walking the cobblestone streets of Williamsburg, hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains, or relaxing in Virginia Beach, this travel guide will help you uncover the very best of the Old Dominion.

Where is Virginia?

πŸ“ Location: Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S.
πŸŒ† Major Cities: Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Alexandria, Roanoke
πŸŒ„ Bordering States: Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia
πŸ”— Visit Virginia Tourism

Best Time to Visit Virginia

🌸 Spring (March-May) – Blooming gardens, historic tours, and mild weather.
β˜€οΈ Summer (June-August) – Ideal for beach trips, road trips, and outdoor festivals.
πŸ‚ Fall (September-November) – Stunning foliage along Skyline Drive and vineyard season.
❄️ Winter (December-February) – Cozy getaways and fewer crowds at historic sites.

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Top Attractions & Destinations in Virginia

1. Shenandoah National Park – Scenic Mountain Escapes

A paradise for hikers and nature lovers, featuring the iconic Skyline Drive.
🏞️ Best Things to Do in Shenandoah:
  • Hike Old Rag Mountain or Dark Hollow Falls
  • Drive Skyline Drive in fall
  • Camp or picnic in the Blue Ridge Mountains
    πŸ“ Location: Northern/Western Virginia
    πŸ”—Β Visit Shenandoah

2. Colonial Williamsburg – Living History

Step back in time to 18th-century America in this immersive historic town.
πŸ›οΈ Top Attractions in Williamsburg:
  • Visit the Governor’s Palace and Capitol
  • Watch historical reenactments and trades
  • Explore nearby Jamestown and Yorktown
    πŸ“ Location: Southeastern Virginia
    πŸ”—Β Visit Colonial Williamsburg

3. Virginia Beach – Oceanfront Relaxation

Miles of sandy shores and a lively boardwalk make this a popular coastal escape.
🌊 Best Things to Do in Virginia Beach:
  • Walk or bike the oceanfront boardwalk
  • Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
  • Explore First Landing State Park
    πŸ“ Location: Southeastern Virginia
    πŸ”—Β Visit Virginia Beach

4. Charlottesville – Wine Country & Monticello

Home to Thomas Jefferson’s estate and surrounded by vineyards and mountains.
πŸ‡ Things to Do in Charlottesville:
  • Tour Monticello and UVA’s historic campus
  • Taste local wines at nearby vineyards
  • Hike in Shenandoah or the Blue Ridge foothills
    πŸ“ Location: Central Virginia
    πŸ”—Β Visit Charlottesville

5. Alexandria – Historic Charm by the Potomac

A walkable, waterfront city with cobblestone streets, boutiques, and colonial flair.
πŸ™οΈ Top Things to Do in Alexandria:
  • Stroll King Street and the Old Town district
  • Take a water taxi to Washington, D.C.
  • Visit Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
    πŸ“ Location: Northern Virginia
    πŸ”—Β Visit Alexandria

Best Outdoor Adventures in Virginia

  • πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Hike the Appalachian Trail section through the Blue Ridge Mountains
  • πŸš— Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway or Skyline Drive in fall
  • 🚣 Kayak or paddle on the James or Shenandoah Rivers
  • πŸ•οΈ Camp in Grayson Highlands State Park with wild ponies nearby

Where to Stay in Virginia

🏨 Historic Inns & Scenic Lodging:

  • The Jefferson Hotel (Richmond) – Gilded luxury with Southern elegance
  • Primland Resort (Meadows of Dan) – Secluded mountain retreat with stargazing

πŸ•οΈ Best Cabins & Campgrounds:

  • Loft Mountain Campground (Shenandoah NP) – Panoramic views and direct trail access
  • False Cape State Park (Virginia Beach) – Remote beachside camping

Tips for Visiting Virginia

βœ… Wear comfortable shoes – many destinations involve walking and trails
βœ… Pack for variable weather, especially in the mountains
βœ… Book Colonial Williamsburg tickets and lodging early during peak seasons
βœ… Try local favorites: oysters, ham, peanuts, and Virginia wine

Nearby Travel Destinations

  • Washington, D.C. – Explore museums, monuments, and national landmarks
  • North Carolina – Visit the Outer Banks or Asheville’s Blue Ridge beauty
  • West Virginia – Explore New River Gorge or go whitewater rafting

Final Thoughts

Virginia is for loversβ€”and for travelers seeking diversity in history, nature, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re hiking mountains, visiting colonial towns, or lounging on the beach, Virginia offers a uniquely rich experience in every season.
For more East Coast inspiration, check out our North Carolina Travel Guide.
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