quiet places to visit in virginia

15 Most Charming Small Towns To Visit In Virginia

Sure, bucket-list vacations to bustling metropolises are great, but where's the love for the little guy? Small towns can make for a spectacularly relaxing getaway, especially in Virginia, where you'll find that no two places are at all the same. From island towns to communities nestled in the mountains, there is a whole lot of charm in Virginia soil, you just have to know where to look.

The Old Dominion is quite the nature lover's paradise with natural wonders hidden across the state. The Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachians rest to the west and the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean are to the east. Mountain peaks, rivers, hiking trails, estuaries, and cave systems are all found in Virginia with communities built around them. Considering nearly a third of Virginia's population lives in NOVA — or northern Virginia — that leaves a lot of the state open for smaller pocket communities to be planted within and throughout all that nature.

For all these reasons, Virginia has some of the best small towns and communities in the country. Whether it be for their revitalized Main Streets and downtown districts; their historical relevance and dedication to preservation; or the nature surrounding them, these contributions to small-town America stand out for the better.

Gordonsville

It's nearly impossible to drive through Gordonsville during the holidays without a smile on your face. The tiny central Virginia town takes great care in stringing each tree along Main Street with lights during the holiday season, creating an illusion of endless lights. The whole town is illuminated as the shops along Main Street also have their fair share of holiday decorations and festive display windows.

Speaking of the small town's Main Street shops, every one from the curated antique shops to the wide-ranging eateries oozes charm with each detail chosen with intention. Well-humored wine lovers can head to Well Hung Vineyard for a dinner-and-wine pairing while coffee lovers will find solace at Krecek Kakes Bakery & Coffeeshop. Businesses that contribute variety and creativity to both the town and Main Street include Folking, a vintage and handmade clothing store, and Stokes of England, which is a custom blacksmithing shop with an in-house forge.

In addition to the many shops on the town's main strip, Gordonsville holds a makers' market every first Friday of the month as well as sporadic seasonal markets. Attending a holiday market under twinkling fairy lights strung from trees is an absolute vision, and travelers who are partial to a Hallmark holiday should certainly put Gordonsville on their small-town bucket list.

Sperryville

No matter which direction you're coming into Sperryville from, the view is immaculate. In the spring and summer, you can expect lush rolling hills while autumn brings canopies of bold, vibrantly colored trees. Wintertime in the mountain foothill town is no ugly stepsister either, as she bares all and creates a gorgeous landscape of nature's artfully crafted trees and ridges.

Sperryville is just a blip on the map, but the town of just under 300 people is one of the most interesting small towns in Virginia. The town has an eclectic mix of residents and businesses. While there are extensive horseback riding and golf scenes in the area, Sperryville would also appeal to many more crunchy and creative lifestyles. In the approximate square mile that is the main part of town, there are various galleries and art-centric shops including an artists' co-op. For the traveler guided by more spiritual means, Abracadabra Massage and Wellness is a popular holistic and metaphysical spa on Main Street.

The tiny town offers a respite for hikers and outdoor adventurers, as Sperryville is situated near some of the most popular trails in Virginia. Old Rag Mountain is right down the road, though you'll want to be a relatively experienced hiker for the viral hike. Taking the opposite route out of the town will deliver you directly to the entrance of Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most popular National Parks sites in America .

Just on the other side of the mountain from Sperryville is Luray, and here tourism is king. The small town is home to Luray Caverns, one of the largest caverns in the United States and an attraction that people from all over the world come to see. While Luray is on the map due to the caverns, it's becoming quite the hot spot with its Main Street quickly developing into one of the most charming in the state. It includes a local brewery; the town's very own historical, intricately decorated first-run theater; and a number of other locally owned businesses, quite a few of which are owned and operated by members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Luray is also quite the destination for hikers and river rats. Located in the Shenandoah Valley and surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Massanutten Mountains, Luray is practically surrounded by hiking trails. With the Shenandoah River running through the area, residents and visitors are also fond of tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the river.

For a small town, Culpeper has quite a lot going on. Rather than a central, simple Main Street, their collection of eclectic shops, restaurants, and breweries extends a few blocks to create a downtown that rivals that of a lively city neighborhood.

As a steadily growing town, Culpeper is developing its downtown district relatively quickly and a visit here could easily fill a full day with walking the area and visiting anything that catches your eye. You'll find two local breweries in this area: Far Gohn Brewing Company and Beer Hound Brewing, which are just two blocks from one another. Bakeries, coffee houses, and ice cream shops are also in the area with plenty of shopping destinations scattered in between. Botanical Dwellings, Poppy + Chalk, Green Roost, and Le Monkey House are popular shops that may hold the perfect takeaway.

The central location of the town puts it in perfect alignment for a lot of different routes through Virginia, so if you're taking a road trip and passing through the state, chances are you can easily fit in a stop in Culpeper. Whether it's just for a cup of coffee, a full meal, or a stroll through Main Street and its connecting streets to stretch your legs, a pitstop here is well worth it if you find yourself in its vicinity.

Martinsville

Located in southern Virginia and under a half hour from Fairy Stone State Park, Martinsville is an oasis of activity smack dab in the center of a whole lot of natural wonder. With the state park to the northwest and Smith River to the south, visitors can choose between heading into the wilderness or traversing the water.

There are still draws for those who would rather keep out of the woods, though, as Martinsville is home to its own speedway, which is the shortest track on NASCAR's circuit. If you're a fan of racing, the town's track brings the audience closer to the action and it's worth planning a visit here around the attraction's major race weekends.

The antiquing opportunities around Martinsville are enormous as well, with a number of businesses dedicated to vintage clothing and relics from times gone by. Junk and Disorderly is a great stop for those looking for refurbished furniture with a mix of farmhouse and antique decor. Fieldale Antiques is 10 minutes away in nearby Fieldale, and is a necessity for those who love everything retro, as the shop is found within an old Shell gas station and still has original features, like the pumps out front. No matter what you choose to do in and around Martinsville, though, you'll have a charming time.

For the traveler looking to have a cultural experience while also becoming one with nature, Abingdon is a great choice. Art in all of its forms can be found here, from local artisans to live theater in a historic playhouse. Quite a few artists in the area also like to incorporate nature found here into their creations, and it's really no wonder why, as the area is stunning.

This historic town's perfect mix of old and new paints such a picturesque view that it almost seems unreal. Abingdon's charm is certainly real, though, and exploring Market District and its many unique businesses will give you the full effect. Swing by The Arts Depot for a peek at what local artists have to offer, and the farmers' market for fresh, locally sourced produce and crafted items available from locals.

The district, as well as the town itself, leaves you slightly off-kilter, as it appears like it's from another decade while still offering all the modern accommodations. Instead of off-putting, though, the contradictory traits just add to Abingdon's appeal and are all the more reason to visit this little southern town.

While not an official town, the hamlet of Lucketts in Loudoun County has more charm than it knows what to do with. Actually, it's creative and innovative enough to make use of practically anything, as made evident by the many vintage shops. The little community is certainly one of Virginia's hidden gems, and a must-visit for anyone interested in antiquing.

One of the biggest and best shops in the area is simply The Old Lucketts Store . The shop is so substantial that you will think the hamlet was named after it instead of the other way around. Decorated gorgeously, the three-story shop constantly changes its inventory and rearranges for regular seasonal and holiday markets. The markets are so popular that tickets must be distributed in order to keep the shop from becoming overcrowded, and they typically go quickly. The antique shop almost doubles as an experiential attraction, and even if you walk out empty-handed, you'll be glad you strayed into the lovely store. Plus, there are plenty of other antique markets in the area to discover as well.

If Virginia is for lovers, Staunton is for history buffs. While the vast majority of towns in Virginia are rich with history, Staunton practically smells of it. The town is made up of six historic districts that have their own personal flair, but admirable architecture that is from the 18th and 19th centuries. Not only does the town have a number of niche historical museums, but also an authentic Shakespearean playhouse.

The American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse is the only recreation of Shakespeare's indoor theater of the same name and great care has been taken to get many details historically accurate to how productions were presented back then. With the tagline, "We do it with the lights on," the playhouse displays performances in full light and even offers select seating right on stage with the actors.

As the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson, Staunton naturally has plenty of homages to the historical figure. What may not be expected of the town is its love of all history, as there are museums dedicated to antique cameras, fire engines, and plenty of art. Art lovers will appreciate the R.R. Smith Center for History and Art , which has a wide range of art offerings. This is just the tip of the iceberg in what Staunton has to show history lovers, though, as its full historic contributions can only be appreciated in person.

South Boston

Before you even ask — yes, the town is named after the city in Massachusetts and no, we do not know why. The two destinations don't have much in common, except for their considerable charm. The town in southern Virginia manages to appear both quaint and impressive with a downtown of older buildings that center on a town hall that stands tall and acts as the perfect focal point.

South Boston has been actively revitalizing its downtown and historic district, and their success in the endeavor clearly shows. A number of new businesses have started up, adding to the clear enchantment and homegrown vibes that the small town gives off. Mother Cluckers and Wister's are both attractive shops with curb appeal that will naturally have you gravitating toward them.

Aligning a trip with the annual South Boston Harvest Festival where various local vendors display their goods is a great way to make the most out of visiting the town, especially if you're bringing the whole family. It can get a little crowded, though, so if you're looking to experience South Boston in its simplest, quietest form, stick to any other time of the year. The summer farmers' markets may be a happy medium.

As with a lot of towns in Virginia, Saint Paul's backyard is lush with trails and water sports. Saint Paul provides access to Spearhead Trails, a southwest Virginia trail system that makes it easy for explorers to traverse the wilderness and mountains via foot, bike, or ATV. If you're not up for a grueling hike, though, the town of under 1,000 residents also boasts numerous water activities thanks to its vicinity to Clinch River.

For such a small town, Saint Paul has a good amount of local eateries to fuel your outdoor adventures. Fat Boy's BBQ and Giovanni's Pizza are both local staples and there are a couple of coffee shops that can be found within the town as well.

Summer is the best time to visit Saint Paul to experience the active outdoor scene, as Clinch River Adventures is seasonal and the best way for non-locals to hit the river on tubes or kayaks. Adventures on the river can last 2 or 7 hours with the company, and it's a great way to insert yourself into nature and relax at the same time.

Winchester is one of the most populated towns on the list and, naturally, the northwest Virginian town has more of a city feel than the otherwise tiny towns mentioned here. That's not to say that the town isn't charming, though, as Main Street and downtown are both absolutely stunning.

Old Town Winchester is home to a number of shops, dining establishments, and family-friendly activities that will make sure the whole family has a great time. The Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum includes three indoor floors and a rooftop of activities, making it a destination that a child could interact with for hours. The Old Town Winchester Splash Pad offers a way for kids to cool down in the summer months.

The shopping in the main district is eclectic and diverse, with something for everyone among the many local businesses spread throughout the area. Art is also an important aspect of Old Town, with the ArtScape program inserting local art throughout the district and two live theaters located in the area. There is so much to discover in Old Town Winchester alone, and with the town being much more expansive than its downtown district, you could spend quite a lot of time exploring the charming not-so-little town.

Not only have locals dubbed Ashland the "center of the universe" (with a local brewery named after the motto), but the central Virginian town is also only just up the road from Virginia's capital of Richmond. This makes a visit to Ashland pretty prime for travelers who want a small-town experience with access to a large, open-minded city.

Ashland has a history of being a railroad town and although it is still very much built around the industry, now it's booming for other reasons besides the railroad. Walking tours and ghost tours are popular in the town, a lot of which focus on the (sometimes dark) history of the tracks. Community is strong in Ashland and visitors can very easily mingle with locals by patronizing bars like Andy's Restaurant & Lounge or attending one of the Ashland Street Parties. The little town exudes charm and is a perfect destination for those who value art, music, and history.

Chincoteague

The eastern part of Virginia is home to numerous coastal towns, estuaries, and tiny islands. Chincoteague is one such island and is famous for the wild horses that can be found here and on nearby Assateague Island. The horses' origins are obscured by the past, but some say the current horses are descended from those that survived a Spanish shipwreck. Whatever their true history, though, the horses are things of legend and people come from all over to see them.

Once a year the horses swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague — and it's kind of a big deal! Locals and visitors gather to watch the Chincoteague Pony Swim, and then a number of younger horses are sold to the highest bidders in an effort to keep the herd from getting overpopulated. The Chincoteague Pony Auction benefits the local volunteer fire company, and the event is celebrated with games and vendors, making it an ideal time to visit the little island. Though, you will not be disappointed with a trip to Chincoteague any other time, either. Water sports, cute shops, and great views are among the many things visitors can look forward to in the small island town.

Kilmarnock has one of the most bustling small-town Main Streets in Virginia. The town has over 50 businesses for visitors and locals alike to busy themselves with during a day walking the Steptoe's District. As wonderful as the lively town itself is, the surrounding area is full of exciting outdoor attractions as well.

The small town is a part of Virginia's River Realm, a collection of communities where the Chesapeake Bay and the Rappahannock River meet. Naturally, there are plenty of opportunities for locals and visitors alike to get out on the water. Boating, fishing, and kayaking are all popular on the Chesapeake Bay, as well as learning about conservation.

Kilmarnock itself looks like the picture-perfect community, and downtown is the place to be. With various businesses focusing on unique home decor and clothing, there are nearly endless options for what you can bring home from the town. Whether you want to spend a day on the water or explore downtown, Kilmarnock is a sweet slice of small-town Virginia and shouldn't be overlooked.

Located in the coastal Hampton Roads region, Smithfield is a beautiful city. The historic architecture keeps the town's classic look while improvements to downtown have created a community space where locals and travelers can gather. Very much a water town, Smithfield sits on the Pagan River and is a stone's throw away from the Chesapeake Bay. Unlike with a lot of popular river towns in Virginia, the land around Smithfield's Pagan River is more akin to wetlands and water activities are less appealing here than in other towns throughout the state. 

That doesn't mean residents don't take advantage of their assets, though, because many activities and festivals use the water as a backdrop to elevate any experience. Smithfield is all about hosting events and festivals for the community to enjoy, whether it be music, food, or holiday festivals. Before you head to Smithfield, take a look at what is going on locally and try to plan your trip to overlap one of the town's many happenings.

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Best places to visit in virginia.

"Virginia is for Lovers" is the state's tourism slogan, and it's not hard to see why. Mountain lovers, animal lovers, history lovers, wine lovers – you name it, you'll find something to love in Virginia . To help you decide where you should plan a trip, U.S. News weighed factors like attractions, accessibility, accommodations and the input of everyday travelers to select the best places to visit in Virginia. Vote for your favorite Virginia vacation below to help us create next year's ranking.

Shenandoah National Park

Williamsburg, virginia beach, chincoteague, alexandria, va, mount vernon, charlottesville, tangier island.

An excellent place to view fall foliage , hike and picnic, Shenandoah National Park stretches across nearly 200,000 acres of protected land in northern Virginia. Skyline Drive is a popular way to see the park – it snakes through the hills and valleys, offering beautiful vantage points and photo opportunities along the way from dozens of different overlooks. Visitors can also take part in ranger programs, which cover everything from stargazing to the park's robust wildlife (hundreds of black bears are known to roam Shenandoah National Park).

Williamsburg is an engaging historical and family-friendly travel destination. Colonial Williamsburg, the world's largest living history museum, transports travelers back in time to experience the 18th century's historic homes, peruse antique wares and soak up the culture. Talented craftspeople and interpreters portraying historical figures help bring the town's history to life, and the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg display colonial and contemporary folk art created by local amateur artisans. Meanwhile, Williamsburg's two amusement parks – Busch Gardens and Water Country USA – attract families with kids looking for some outdoor fun.

Home to the site of the last major battle in the Revolutionary War, Yorktown Battlefield, this distinguished Virginia town is highly regarded for its historical significance. You'll surely want to add the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and the Watermen's Museum to your itinerary, but you should also save time for exploring Riverwalk Landing, a waterfront dining and shopping district that hosts several free events throughout the year. When you need to rest your feet, take a load off at peaceful Yorktown Beach, a 2-acre stretch of sand overlooking the York River.

With multiple districts and beaches, Virginia Beach is sure to offer something for everyone. This coastal city provides plenty of options for both relaxation and entertainment, making it the perfect choice for a romantic getaway or a family trip. Rollerblade down the boardwalk or soak up some rays in the Oceanfront neighborhood, hike or kayak in the Sandbridge area or enjoy some retail therapy before grabbing a bite to eat in the Town Center district. When you're not lounging on the beach or hitting up the trails in First Landing State Park, check out one of Virginia Beach's top-notch museums.

Chincoteague Island welcomes visitors with its scenic, serene coastal beauty and its famous wild ponies. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is the main attraction. Here, you'll spot birds and waterfowl in addition to the island's horses. Though these beautiful creatures might look tame, they are still wild animals, so avoid approaching, feeding or touching them. Other popular Chincoteague activities include fishing, kayaking, boating and biking. In summer, you can explore the island via Chincoteague's seasonal trolley service, and when you need to refuel, check out the eateries along Main Street and Maddox Boulevard.

Outdoor and historical attractions are the highlights of Jamestown. Greensprings Interpretive Trail features 3 1/2 miles of hiking and bike paths, while the Jamestown Settlement living history museum offers a look at 17th-century Virginia and the events that paved the way for the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. Don't forget to visit Historic Jamestowne, the original archaeological site where the 1607 settlement was located. Travelers should also pop into the town's Glasshouse to see glassblowing demonstrations and pick up a handblown glass souvenir.

Alexandria's charming atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone coming to Virginia. Old Town Alexandria draws visitors in with its historical architecture and abundant shops and restaurants. Peruse the Old Town Farmers' Market in the morning (open every Saturday); then, in the evening, grab a drink at a local Irish pub. Meanwhile, those looking for a spookier glimpse of Old Town's past can sign up for a ghost tour. Plus, sightseers who want to take advantage of Alexandria's proximity to Washington, D.C. can catch a unique view of the nation's capital during a riverboat tour on the Potomac River.

Historic Mount Vernon, situated along the banks of the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., is where you'll find the plantation home of the first president of the United States, George Washington. While here, visitors can walk through Washington's 21-room mansion, enjoy a stroll through the estate's four gardens, learn about the enslaved people who lived on the property at the on-site museum and visit the family's tomb. The popular tourist attraction also hosts events like tea with Martha Washington and Revolutionary War reenactments.

Home to the prestigious University of Virginia, Charlottesville is a fun getaway for wine lovers and history buffs. Rolling countryside and dozens of wineries and vineyards surround the town, and the area's excellent topography leads to some tasty varieties along the Monticello Wine Trail. Visitors should also spend some time walking around the historic Downtown Mall, which features more than 150 shops and restaurants, and touring Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's former home. Time your visit for fall to see Carter Mountain Orchard's colorful foliage and sample delicious apple cider doughnuts.

Spend some time in nature during a trip to Luray. Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, this town is best known for its Luray Caverns, the largest cave system in the eastern U.S. Visitors flock to this underground wonderland to view its otherworldly limestone chambers, which are filled with stalactites and stalagmites, glassy lakes and wonders like the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the largest musical instrument in the world. Outdoor attractions, such as the Rope Adventure Park, the Garden Maze and the nearby Wisteria Farm & Vineyard, offer countless ways to have fun above ground as well.

The state capital is another Virginia locale steeped in history. Visitors will want to check out American Revolution sites like St. John's Church (where Patrick Henry pleaded "Give me liberty, or give me death!") and attractions like Maymont estate and The American Civil War Museum. But this dynamic city isn't stuck in the past. Explore the eclectic boutiques and trendy cafes in Carytown, or browse the exhibits on display at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. If the weather is warm, head to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to admire the blooms or find a quiet place to relax along the James River.

Only accessible by boat or small plane, this tranquil island in the middle of Virginia's Chesapeake Bay is perfect for travelers who are seeking peace and quiet. The small fishing village is best explored by bike or golf cart, or by kayaking through Tangier's water trails, which is a great way to spot local wildlife. Other must-do experiences include sinking your toes in the sand at unspoiled Tangier Island Beach, sampling fresh seafood and learning about Tangier's history at the Tangier Island Museum and Interpretive Cultural Center.

This small town in Northern Virginia is an intriguing mix of old and new. History lovers come from all over to stand on the hallowed ground of Manassas National Battlefield Park, the site of two major Civil War battles. Meanwhile, Historic Downtown Manassas' tasty restaurants, breweries and antique shops can't be missed. What's more, Manassas is home to a thriving arts scene, boasting several local art galleries and entertainment venues where travelers can attend the ballet or catch a performance by the Manassas Symphony Orchestra.

A city with a Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop, Roanoke features cultural hot spots like art galleries, live music venues, museums and more. After exploring top institutions like the Virginia Museum of Transportation and the Taubman Museum of Art, grab a bite to eat in historic Grandin Village. Chances are you'll also want to explore the area's incredible scenery on a hiking trip (120 miles of the famed Appalachian Trail run through Roanoke), on a bike ride or from the water via canoe or kayak. If you prefer a long, relaxing drive, Blue Ridge Parkway allows you to view the landscape from the comfort of your vehicle.

Middleburg, an easy weekend getaway destination from Washington, D.C., is known for its horses and its wine. Often referred to as "the nation's horse and hunt capital," the town is home to many equestrians and fox hunters. Plus, numerous wineries surround this town, including the popular Chrysalis Vineyards, Boxwood Estate Winery and Greenhill Vineyards. Spend a sunny afternoon strolling along Washington Street, where you'll find a small collection of restaurants, art galleries and boutiques, then retreat to the Salamander Resort & Spa for a delectable meal or spa treatment.

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10 Best Mountain Towns in Virginia, According to Locals

These are the best mountain towns in Virginia for scenic views and outdoor adventures.

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The diversity in Virginia’s geographical regions allowed it to become a state with multiple identities. In the Coastal Plain, life is defined by access to the ocean or the Chesapeake Bay. In the Piedmont, rolling hills and farmland create incredible pastoral scenes that surround larger cities. Then if you head west to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Valley and Ridge, and the Appalachian Plateau, you’ll encounter ancient mountain ranges towering over rivers, valleys, and a variety of small towns — many of which have their own unique personalities, attractions, and reasons to visit. 

“Virginia mountain towns make me think of windy roads and endless stonewalls — a feeling of going back in time,” says Ann Shannon, lead concierge at The Clifton, a boutique hotel in Charlottesville. “I’m also reminded of eclectic shops, delicious food, the friendliest people, and fresh air. It gives me a sense of peace.” 

As someone who grew up in Bedford, a small town at the base of the Peaks of Otter, I can also vouch for this specific blend of charm, magic, and nostalgia. And while the fall is a particularly special time to experience it — according to Shannon, the foliage is “second to none with bright reds, yellows, and oranges cascading throughout the mountain ranges" — the best mountain towns in Virginia are filled with year-round appeal. Read on to discover our expert-recommend favorites. 

Charlottesville

Charlottesville might technically be a city, but it veers more toward small town than bustling metropolis. “Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is a beautiful college town,” says Shannon. “I love walking the UVA grounds or hiking the Rivanna Trails and the Saunders-Monticello Trail; there’s [also] spectacular hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains only a short drive from Charlottesville.” After you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll be more than ready to fill up at a neighborhood bistro or snack on a charcuterie plate at a local winery. “The restaurants offer incredible culinary experiences, and there are more than 40 vineyards in the area ,” she adds.

Harrisonburg

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If you’re traveling through the Shenandoah Valley, which sits between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Alleghenies, make it a point to stop in Harrisonburg. “This prime location gives you access to most outdoor activities you would want to do in Virginia: trails for hiking and biking, rock climbing, paddling, hunting, fishing, offroading, and more,” says Grant Price, a guide at Blue Ridge Mountain Guides . And if you’re looking to learn more about exploring the area? He recommends visiting some of Harrisonburg's many outfitters — including Walkabout Outfitter and Mossy Creek Fly Fishing .

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Another college mountain town to add to your list is Lexington, home to Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University. “Nestled in the mountains, Main Street welcomes visitors with cute shops and darling restaurants — most of which are locally owned,” says Shannon, who recommends staying overnight at The Georges . If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to leave time in your itinerary for a performance at Lime Kiln Theater , an afternoon at Devils Backbone Brewing Company , or an entire day tubing the Maury River or fly fishing the nearby streams.

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Galax, Virginia bats well above average in two areas: music and mountain adventure. Not only is it a stop along “The Crooked Road,” Virginia’s musical heritage trail, but it’s also known as the “Old Time Music Capital of the World.” Here, Appalachian music continues to reign supreme, and you can hear it in its many forms at the Blue Ridge Music Center, the Old Fiddlers’ Convention (held every August), and The Rex , a historic theater and live music venue located in downtown Galax. Before embarking on a day of hiking or mountain biking along the New River Trail, which has a trailhead in Galax, pop into New River Trail Outfitters for last-minute gear or bike rentals.

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“Put simply, Damascus is a trail town,” says Price. “In fact, it is one of only three downtowns that the Appalachian Trail runs through.” ( Hot Springs, North Carolina and Hanover, New Hampshire are the other two, although this definition depends on the understanding of trail placement and where it falls in relation to town.) He also notes that this mountain town is home to the 33.4-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, which many runners, hikers, and bikers use to explore the area between Abingdon and the Virginia-North Carolina border. While in Damascus, make it a point to visit the Appalachian Heritage Distillery for a bourbon and enjoy a meal at The Damascus Diner.

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Those familiar with the state of Virginia may associate the town of Luray with the Luray Caverns , a geological marvel and the largest cavern in the eastern U.S., but there’s plenty more to do in this Shenandoah Valley town. Start your trip by checking into the Hotel Laurance , then get in some mileage on the Skyline Drive. Hiking in Shenandoah National Park is, of course, a must, as is a quick stop at the Luray Valley Museum and a day of family fun at nearby Massanutten Mountain . During the warmer months, the resort’s outdoor water park provides hours of entertainment with its water slides and wave pool.

Sperryville

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One of the best features of mountain towns is their ability to explored in just a day or two. Take Sperryville, for example. The tiny destination has two main streets and no stoplights — and it’s the perfect basecamp for anyone driving the Blue Ridge Parkway or hiking in Shenandoah National Park. ”On a recent visit, I had lunch at the RPK Pizza Kitchen and everything was delicious, gourmet, and fresh,” says Shannon. “Right next door is The Corner Store , an upscale grocery with local goods — perfect for grabbing some freshly baked bread and a bottle of wine for dinner. Just 10 minutes north is Patty O’s in Little Washington — a true culinary treat.”

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Abingdon encompasses everything that makes a Virginia mountain town so special. There’s great food — dinner at The Tavern is a nonnegotiable — a book store , a unique coffee shop , cozy places to grab a drink ( Katbird's Wine & Gourmet and Tumbling Creek Cider Company ), a world-class farmers market , and a dedication to celebrating the arts (check out The Arts Depot and Barter Theatre ). You’ll also find a touch of luxury at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa ; as a guest, you can use the hotel’s complimentary town bikes to ride down the historic Main Street.

Ryan Herron/Getty Images

“Roanoke continues to evolve into an outdoor hotspot,” says Price. “One shining example is the annual Roanoke Go Outside Festival , which brings paddlers, bikers, hikers, frisbee golfers, tree climbers... [and all types of] outdoors people together.” Those in search of a small-town feeling within the city should head to the historic Grandin Village , a walkable neighborhood with all types of boutiques, local restaurants, coffee shops, and live music performances. For travelers looking for a more heart-pumping adventure, Price recommends the “classic sections of the Appalachian Trail, such as Dragon’s Tooth and McAfee Knob,” the latter of which is one of the most photographed spots on the AT.

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Bedford is a small mountain town that has begun to hold its own in the world of Virginia tourism. It’s an easy day trip from both Lynchburg and Roanoke — approximately 20 and 40 minutes, respectively — and its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains is hard to beat. It’s a short drive up to the Peaks of Otter, where hiking trails, picnic tables, and the Blue Ridge Parkway’s scenic overlooks await. In town, be sure to stop by the National D-Day Memorial , have a beer at Beale’s Brewery , and shop for local art at Goose Creek Studio .

Related Articles

15 Unforgettable Virginia Weekend Getaways (Romantic + Fun!)

By: Author Katie

Posted on Published: January 21, 2022  - Last updated: June 1, 2024

Need an escape? From beautiful blue ridge mountains to the shores of Virginia Beach, the Commonwealth of Virginia is full of exciting and romantic weekend getaways, all right across the Potomac River from DC.

The best weekend getaways in Virginia

Virginia is perfect for any weekend getaway, no matter your interests. Virginia is not only rich in culture but also in the outdoors. With all the beauty Virginia offers, traveling to Virginia for a weekend getaway will allow you to experience Virginia’s abundance of nature with all its beauty and glory.

⭐️ Need a quick recommendation? We love Charlottesville for a more active Virginia getaway with historical sites, vineyards, and great restaurants. For seafood, views, and plenty of charm, head out to Cape Charles. For quiet getaways, visit the Homestead Resort in southwest Virginia, one of the most romantic hotels on the east coast. ⭐️

1. Eastern Shore of Virginia

Yes, it’s a little bit of a drive: but it’s worth it! The Eastern Shore is filled with coastal attractions with a remote feel unlike any other waterfront spot in Virginia. There are many weekend getaway options available on the Eastern Shore.

Virginia’s Eastern Shore is home to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which has some of the best hiking Virginia offers. Also, nearby Assateague Island is famous for its wild ponies that live year-round!

But the very best of the Eastern Shore is to be found in Cape Charles, a small coastal town with many shops and restaurants.

Cape Charles is the perfect place to relax and enjoy time on one of America’s most beautiful coasts. Grab a bite from a local seafood restaurant and sit down for a drink with your special someone.

You can also take advantage of all the fun activities Cape Charles has to offer, including parasailing and kayaking tours out onto pristine

2. Virginia’s Blue Ridge Region

Virginia is home to the Shenandoah Valley, which has some of the most beautiful hiking areas in the country. Virginia also offers many outdoor activities, including white water rafting on rapids or kayaking through small rivers where you can spot Virginia’s abundant wildlife ranging from deer to bald eagles.

The Southwestern Virginia region from Lynchburg to Bristol is filled with scenic views and outdoor activities.

If fly fishing and RV camping aren’t your thing, it’s easy to find a charming inn in one of the small towns in this region. Look for a town along the Blue Ridge Parkway to experience a scenic drive in western Virginia.

Some of our favorite towns in this region:

• Blowing Rock

Virginia also offers plenty of hiking trails, including the Virginia Creeper Trail, which will allow you to take in some of Virginia’s rich history and culture.

The Virginia Creeper Trail stretches from Abingdon to Damascus at an elevation of 2000 feet above sea level and goes through gorges and Virginia’s beautiful Appalachian forest.

3. Charlottesville

If you’re looking for an educational and fun weekend getaway, Charlottesville should be on your list! There are many things to do in this fantastic city, including visiting historical landmarks, eating delicious restaurants, and exploring the art scene.

Charlottesville is also home to the University of Virginia , which is one of the most prestigious universities in the country.

Be sure to stop by Monticello, the historic and beautiful home of Thomas Jefferson, one of the most interesting historic homes on the East Coast.

See the 15 Beautiful Wineries Near Charlottesville that we recommend.

4. Massanutten Resort

The Massanutten Resort is a 60,000-acre resort in the southern part of Massanutten Mountain, located in the middle of the Shenandoah Valley.

You can explore mountains, trails, and rivers, as well as go kayaking on the Shenandoah River at the Massanutten Resort.

After a long day of hiking or biking, you can relax by taking a dip in one of their pools or enjoy a relaxing massage at the Spa.

Massanutten Resort also offers Virginia skiing so that you can see all of Virginia’s beauty by day and night! The resort also has themed weekends throughout the year so check out their website for more information about these special occasions.

5. Shenandoah National Park

If you are spending the weekend outdoors, Virginia offers plenty of outdoor activities to suit your needs. If hiking is your thing, Shenandoah National Park should be on your must-see list when visiting Virginia.

Shenandoah National Park is a huge stretch of wooden hollows, summits, waterfalls, and mountain streams with over 500 miles of hiking trails available.

6. Hot Springs

If you are can afford it and are in desperate need of a relaxing and healing weekend getaway, stay at the Homestead Resort in Hot Springs. This historical resort is an absolute treasure and has even been designated a National Historic Landmark. You’ll love everything from their beautiful outdoor pool to the world-class dining. You’ll find golf, tennis, a large spa, and gorgeous garens. It’s a must-see!

Hot Springs is located in Bath County, in Southwestern Virginia. This area has many stunning historic resorts that you will want to check out for yourself.

7. Charlottesville

This beautiful city is located in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Central Virginia.

Charlottesville is situated Virginia’s wine country and you’ll find dozens of vineyards to visit during your weekend trip.

Charlottesville features darling boutiques, antique shops, outstanding bookstores, as well as local wineries. You will also find many excellent hiking trails near Charlottesville.

8. Old Town Alexandria

Alexandria is very close to Washington DC, so it would be a great place to visit after doing the obligatory tours of the White House, the Capitol Building, and more. A charming town with lots of opportunities for shopping and dining, Alexandria is a popular weekend getaway for those living in the DC area.

One of the first things you will want to experience in Alexandria is the Old Town which has a plethora of local boutiques and fabulous restaurants and cafes, all nestled along the Potomac River.

Also, be sure to check out Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington.

9. Colonial Williamsburg

If you are looking for a unique cultural experience, Colonial Williamsburg is the place to be. This historic district has over 400 restored buildings built during colonial times.

Don’t forget to check out what’s in bloom while visiting Williamsburg; this city is known for its spectacular flower gardens! You can take a walking tour of these gardens and admire all of the natural beauty along the way.

Williamsburg is located only about 2 hours from Richmond or an hour and a half from Norfolk, so it would be a perfect day trip if you find yourself in either of those locations.

Stay in the historic Williamsburg Inn if you’re looking for a romantic escape. And be sure to visit our favorite restaurant in Williamsburg, Food for Thought.

10. Richmond

Richmond, Virginia, is known for its delicious food. Richmond has it all if you are looking for an amazing weekend getaway in Virginia! Richmond should be on your list of Virginia Weekend Getaways for foodies due to its mouth-watering homemade delights.

Richmond is known for its great food and rich Virginia history. A quick weekend jaunt to Richmond can be very fulfilling and educational to those looking for an escape.

If you love food, then head down to Carytown in Richmond for some amazing restaurants to eat at! You will find that there is a variety of places, such as Italian cuisine down to seafood and steaks served fresh off the grill! If you love beer, you will definitely want to check out Richmond’s Beer Trail as well.

While in Richmond, you won’t want to miss the expansive arts scene. You’ll be able to view various street murals, galleries, and more. If you love art, don’t forget to check out the Virginia Museum of Fine Art

11. Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach offers an array of amusement parks, aquariums, and other activities for all ages. Much of Virginia’s coastline is on the Chesapeake Bay, but with Virginia Beach’s location directly on the Atlantic Ocean, you can enjoy even more activities such as surfing and paddleboarding.

If you’re looking for a good time with your significant other, then head on down to Virginia Beach and go horseback riding along the coastline!

What Else Does Virginia Have to Offer?

If you’re looking for a shorter, family-friendly day trip, one of these destinations might be more your speed

Virginia is home to beautiful parks, making it an ideal location for Virginia weekend getaways! Virginia contains many national parks, such as Shenandoah National Park, where you can see abundant wildlife.

In addition to Shenandoah National Park, Virginia also contains many more beautiful national parks such as Great Falls National Park, Historic Jamestowne National Park, and more.

Nature lovers will also enjoy New River Trail State Park, where you can ride your bike on a 57-mile trail that follows an abandoned railroad.

Virginia weekend getaways allow you to experience Virginia in a whole new way while being surrounded by nature.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel spans 17.6 miles and is considered to be the world’s most giant bridge tunnel. The Chesapeake Bay connects Southeastern Virginia and the Delmarva Peninsula and offers beautiful routes!

13. For the history buffs

Home to more presidents than any other state and being the heart of the Civil War, there are literally hundreds of weekend trips for history lovers.

Some of the best historic sites:

• The American Civil War Museum outside Richmond
• The Frontier Culture Museum near Staunton
• Colonial Williamsburg is an entire historic city
• Stonewall Jackson’s house is near many interesting Civil war battlefields.

14. Amusement Parks

If your heart is set on going to an amusement park Virginia has several, including Kings Dominion, which offers wonderful lodging and tickets for over 60 rides and attractions!

Paramount’s Kings Dominion is very fun, especially for kids during the summer months because it is a water park and theme park in one. This amusement park spans 400-acres and has many fun things to do that your entire traveling party will enjoy.

Thrill-seekers will love Kings Dominion’s scariest ride, the Intimidator 305. This ride can reach speeds up to 90 mph, and riders will experience a massive drop of over 300 feet at an 85-degree angle.

Teenagers and brave adults whore young at heart will enjoy the exciting loops and drops of the many roller coasters at this amusement park. One of the coasters that the park features is the Hypersonic XLC, which is one of the world’s first compressed-air launched roller coasters.

15. Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens is a great place to visit if you are up for having lots of fun. The main theme of this amusement park is classic Europe with beautifully landscaped villages inspired by the streets of France, the hamlets of Scotland, and the Oktoberfest celebrations of Germany. Altogether, this park features nine villages inspired by six countries that you will love to explore.

You will also be able to satisfy your craving for adrenaline-fueled adventure with all of the fantastic rides at Busch Gardens. You will find exhilarating rides there, such as the Grover’s Alpine Express, Tempesto, The Loch Ness Monster, Invadr, and more.

Start Planning Your Virginia Weekend Getaway Today!

Virginia is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway. There are many things to do in Virginia, including exploring the Shenandoah Valley, amusement parks, and more. Virginia’s capital city, Richmond, also has some great food options. 

Virginia is also home to many national parks that house some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. Virginia offers many other outdoor activities, including white water rafting on rapids or kayaking through small rivers where you can spot Virginia’s large population of wildlife ranging from rabbits to elk.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway this summer, Virginia may be just what you need! Virginia is an all-time weekend getaway destination no matter what time of year it is! 

Virginia is rich in culture and one of the most beautiful outdoor destinations as well. Both are reasons why Virginia should be at the top of any list for weekend getaways this summer!

Everything from a romantic getaway to state parks

There are many things to do in Virginia, including exploring the Shenandoah Valley, amusement parks, and more. Richmond is also a great city for food lovers. Virginia is home to many national parks that offer beautiful hiking trails and outdoor activities such as white water rafting or kayaking. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway this summer, Virginia should be at the top of your list!

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.

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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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The 8 Best Beaches in Virginia for Avoiding Crowds

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These beach hideaways located near America's birthplace will have you coming back for more sun, sand and surf.

By Abbey Hull on June 22, 2018

While Virginia is known as America’s birthplace, visitors can also enjoy a side of beautiful shoreline along with their history lesson. Home to a number of secluded beaches along the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean, locals and travelers alike will enjoy these eight hidden beach destinations for their next weekend getaway.

In This Article

1. Yorktown Beach, Yorktown, VA

Located in Historic Yorktown , Yorktown Beach offers guests both a relaxing day on the water and an energetic night at Riverwalk Landing, a popular dining and shopping experience for beachgoers. The two-acre beach offers a variety of activities the family will love–boating, fishing, picnics by the water, and more–without the worry of large crowds.

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2. Buckroe Beach, Hampton, VA

With a gentle surf and a serene shoreline, Buckroe Beach offers its guests the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay all summer season. While the beach doesn’t allow pets during the summer, it offers visitors on-duty lifeguards and kayak and picnic table rentals to make their beach visit a vacation to remember.

3. Sandbridge Beach, Virginia Beach, VA

Don’t let its location fool you– Sandbridge Beach is found 15 miles south of the popular resort area, making it the perfect hideaway for you to enjoy. This beach lets guests breathe in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, view diverse wildlife and scenery, and explore the nearby 130,000 acres of natural land, debunking any resort perceptions and leaving behind only secluded sunbathing and swimming. 

4. Jamestown Beach, Williamsburg, VA

Jamestown Beach is noted as a hidden gem by the Virginia Tourism Corporation , and with good reason. Undergoing renovations along its shoreline, the beach is open year-round for visitors to soak in the sunshine and ocean views at its observation pier and, for the history buffs in the family, the historic Jamestown Settlement located nearby.

The 6 Best-Kept Secret Beaches in Florida

5. huntington park, newport news, va.

Visitors will want to spend a few days exploring Huntington Park Beach with its multitude of things to do. Guests can spend a day fishing from the longest fishing pier on the East Coast, take in a ball game at the local city league ballfield, explore the Huntington Park Rose Garden , or visit the Virginia War Museum and Vietnam War and Holocaust Remembrance memorials.

6. Fort Monroe Beach, Hampton VA

Fully surrounded by water, Fort Monroe Beaches offer diverse experiences for guests visiting the Chesapeake Bay area. For nature lovers, the beaches are home to approximately 89 bird species, 9 tree species, and 249 types of plants, and for those wishing for more, the Paradise Ocean Club offers memberships to access their private beaches, snack bar, restaurant, and club equipment.

7. Grandview Beach, Hampton, VA

Officially known as Grandview Nature Preserve , the beachfronts offer all kinds of activities. Guests wishing to hike or canoe have programs available to experience the beauty of the wetlands. For others who prefer the comforts of the shore, Grandview beaches are uniquely ideal for beach combing along the tide and discovering shells, driftwood, sea glass, and more.

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8. Ocean View Beach, Norfolk, VA

Although Ocean View Amusement Park memorialized in the 1977 movie Rollercoaster is now gone, visitors can still enjoy the 6.5 acres of exciting shoreline and boardwalk. Considered by locals to be the jewel of Ocean View, the park also offers green spaces, band shells for the park’s regular festivals, and beaches newly widened by 60 feet with new sand–talk about an upgrade!

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15 Best Small Towns in Virginia That You Need to Visit

Ready to explore some of the most charming small towns in Virginia? Whether you find yourself visiting iconic heritage sites or exploring the many recreational trails in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains – Virginia is ripe for exploration.

It’s time to hit the roads less traveled. Explore the small towns that are vibrant and full of charm. Road trip along the scenic byways and break away from the hustle and bustle of the city and really discover the small-town gems.

If you’re thinking about a weekend getaway and looking to explore somewhere unique and new in VA? Then don’t miss what I consider to be the best small towns in Virginia.

From the Atlantic Coastline to the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Here are 15 small Virginia towns that are totally worth visiting.

1. Williamsburg

Welcome to the “colonial capital” of Virginia. Don’t miss exploring the beautiful historic town of Williamsburg . Known for its living history, thrilling theme parks, botanical gardens, and parks.

The town’s main attraction is Colonial Williamsburg , a living historic town and museum where visitors can explore everything from touring 18th-century buildings and gardens to watching the many trade demonstrations such as forging and weaving of fabrics.

For the thrill-seekers, be sure to spend a day at Busch Gardens , a theme park filled with the best jaw-dropping rides, attractions, wildlife encounters, and more.

Top Highlights

Colonial Williamsburg , Busch Gardens , Williamsburg Winery , and Water Country USA

Roanoke is a beautiful small town just southwest of Virginia. It’s known for its enormous neon star called the Mill Mountain Star. The large star sits on the summit of Mill Mountain, overlooking the town below.

Roanoke is a great place to visit and can easily be explored in a weekend getaway.

Roanoke’s top highlights include its downtown shopping district, museums & art galleries, plus many hiking & biking trails within the Blue Ridge Parkway.

I find the best time to visit Roanoke is in the fall. Enjoy the changing of leaves throughout the parkway and the nearby lakes. Afterward, why not go apple picking at the nearby orchards?

Peaks of Otter Winery and Orchard is great for wine tasting and apple picking. The winery is located only 8 miles from the parkway and is open daily from 12 to 5 pm.

Mill Mountain Star Trail, Virginia Museum of Transportation, Roanoke Pinball Museum, and the Taubman Museum of Art

3. Lexington

With only a population of 7000, Lexington really captures that charming small-town feel.

This town is all about its universities, outdoor escapes, and history. It has quite a number of historic landmarks, such as the Stonewall Jackson House , the former residence of Confederate General  Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson. 

And the University Chapel & Museum at Washington & Lee University. Built by Robert E. Lee, an American Confederate general and former president of the school.

This place is a history lovers paradise!        

Stonewall Jackson House , Devil’s Backbone Brewery Outpost , Hull’s Drive-In Theater,  and the Miller’s House Museum

4. Harrisonburg

Surrounded by the hills of the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is one of those small, pleasant towns you just need to visit.

Local farmer’s markets, historic architecture, art exhibits, and galleries are just a small part of Harrisonburg’s energetic culture.

I highly recommend kicking off the weekend lavender picking at the White Oak Lavender Farm and Purple Wolf Vineyard . A beautiful family-owned farm featuring over 6000 lavender plants.

Shop the farm’s handmade products, such as soaps, lotions, and essential oils, all made from pure lavender.

White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple Wolf Vineyard , Harrisonburg Farmers Market , Downtown Harrisonburg , and the James Madison University Mineral Museum.

5. Jamestown

A trip to Williamsburg isn’t complete without a quick stopover in Jamestown. Packed full of history, Jamestown is home to the first English settlement in North America way back in 1607. 

Wander and explore the Jamestown history museum with recreations of the Powhatan Indian village and one of the three ships that transported the English colonists to Jamestown.

Jamestown Settlement,   Billsburg Brewery, and Jamestown Beach

6. Staunton

Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains, Staunton is known for its thriving arts and culture scene and rich history. It was founded in 1747 and is considered one of the oldest towns in the Shenandoah Valley.

Spend the afternoon exploring the many unique shops and restaurants that line Staunton’s historic Main Street. Experience live glass-blowing demonstrations and wine tastings, or enjoy a fun night of theater at the Blackfriars Playhouse.

Oh, and did I mention the food? Staunton has a hot reputation for its local food. Be sure to check out these top restaurants, such as Wright’s Dairy-Rite, Taste of India , Chicano Boy Tacos , and The Split Banana.

This place makes for one of the best weekend getaways in Virginia.

The Blackburn Inn , Blackfriars Playhouse , Woodrow Wilson Library and Museum , and Wrights Dairy-Rite.

Weekend Guide to Staunton, Virginia

7. culpeper.

One of Virginia’s best small towns. Culpeper is home to some of the best wineries, including Mountian Run Winery, Old House Vineyards, and a small local Moonshine Distillery called Belmont Farm Distillery. 

It’s the perfect t place to spend the weekend with plenty of things to do, from watching movies in the old Culpeper Theater to exploring the many trails at the old Brandy Station Battlefields. 

Culpeper was also declared the “Prettiest small town in Virginia” by Architectural Digest and it’s not hard to see why.

The Museum of Culpeper History , Mountain Run Winery, Lake Pelham, Belmont Farm Distillery, and Ceder Mountain Battlefields

8. Charlottesville

Charlottesville, also known to many as C’ville, is the gateway to the beautiful Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

It’s home to the famous Monticello plantation, a national landmark and former residence of Thomas Jefferson.

The University of Virginia , also designed by Jefferson, is another town highlight offering free daily tours of the grounds. 

Despite Charlotteville’s slightly larger scale, you can easily explore this lively town over two days.

Don’t miss some of Charlottesville’s top highlights, including its downtown mall, local wineries, and surrounding Shenandoah National Park.  

Charlottesville Downtown Mall, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, Carter Mountain Orchard, Shenandoah National Park , and the University of Virginia

9. Hot Springs

Hot Springs is a place of tranquility and relaxation!

Located in the county of Bath, Hot Springs is home to one of America’s most famous resorts, the Omni Homestead Resort & Spa.

A luxury resort featuring world-class golf, exceptional dining, and one of the oldest alpine ski resorts in the United States. 

The resort offers 483 guest rooms and suites, along with two championship golf courses, a luxury spa and salon, an outdoor pool with a lazy river, and two water slides. 

Over the decades, this historic hotel has hosted many American presidents and royals, including Thomas Jefferson and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. 

Omni Homestead Resort & Spa, Hidden Valley Hiking Trail, and Blue Suck Falls

10. Chincoteague Island

Located along Virginia’s Eastern Shore is a quaint little beach town called Chincoteague Island.

It’s mostly known for its National Wildlife, clams, and oyster beds, but what makes this Virginia coastal town stand out is its famous wild ponies.

Fun fact: Chincoteague’s wild ponies are so common that the Chincoteague Fire Department holds a special event called the “Pony Swim.”

They round up about 200 ponies from Assateague Island and lead them through the Assateague Channel onto Chincoteague Island. This unique event is held annually in July and is totally worth checking out. 

Chincoteague is definitely one small town in Virginia not to be missed!

It offers quite a diverse range of wetlands and wildlife, beautiful sandy beaches, and stunning sunsets. Basically, it’s the perfect beach escape.

The National Wildlife Refuge , Assateague National Seashore , Assateague Lighthouse , and the NASA Flight Facility Center

11. Abingdon

Abington gives off that friendly, small-town appeal that you can’t help but love. It’s one of those bucket list small towns you have to visit.

Abington’s top highlights include its historic Barter Theatre, Virginia Creeper Trail, and the Martha Washington Inn.  

However, If you’re looking to explore off the beaten track, why not check out some of Abington’s best-kept secret spots, such as Backbone Rock, a rock tunnel that was blasted through to make way for the railway. 

Or Hidden Valley Lake , a large lake located atop the mountains at around 3,500 feet in elevation. The perfect spot for hiking & fishing. 

Virginia Creeper Trail,  Barter Theatre, Martha Washington Hotel & Spa, and Downtown Abington

Read More 

The ultimate 4-day outer banks itinerary, 12. onancock.

Only a short 43-minute drive from Chincoteague is one of the coolest small towns in VA called Onancock.

Its beautiful waterfront & marina offers quite a variety of tiny shops and restaurants.

Onancock is quite small and is best explored by foot. Take a walk around and admire the beautiful Victorian-era homes that line the streets of the town. 

That said, the best thing to do in Onancock is to get out on the water, hire a kayak or paddleboard for the day and visit the local wineries, or jump aboard a boat tour to the surrounding islands. 

  Ker Place , the waterfront and marina, boat and kayaking tours

13. Natural Bridge

You might think Natural Bridge is one of those small towns that really doesn’t have too much going on.

However, Natural Bridge’s top highlights are a little more hidden away than usual, so hidden, in fact, you may not even know they are there.

Natural Bridge is home to two major attractions, the Caverns at Natural Bridge and the Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia’s newest park featuring a 90-foot rock arch formation.

Spend the weekend exploring the deep underground caverns and view the many rock formations with unique features.

Then, head over to the Natural Bridge and follow the hiking trail through the arch and alongside Cedar Creek.

Just the sheer size of the Natural Bridge and Caverns is enough to leave you in awe!

Virginia Safari Park , Natural Bridge State Park, Natural Bridge Hotel , and the Caverns at Natural Bridge

14. Bristol

Surrounded by the South Huston Lake on one side and Holston River on the other resides a small town called Bristol. Also known as “The Birthplace of Country Music” 

Now, you might argue that Bristol is actually in Tennessee, but in fact, the town actually sits on the state line between Virginia & Tennessee. So you have Bristol, Virginia & Bristol, Tennessee, both of which are the same town, which is pretty cool. 

The best place to start exploring is downtown Bristol. Be sure to check out State Street with the town’s iconic double yellow state lines and the historic Bristol sign, which has been around since 1915. 

Then head on over to the Paramount Center for the Arts, where you will find The Birthplace of Country Museum and many other locally-owned shops, restaurants, and boutiques.

Paramount Center for the Arts,  Bristol Train Station, and State Street

15. Covington

Covington is another small historic town in Virginia that’s definitely worth checking out.

The town was named after General Leonard Covington , a United States Army General and former United States Representative from the 1800s.

Covington is a nature lover’s escape! Spend the day exploring the many nature trails and waterfalls, such as the Falling Springs Waterfall and the Jackson River Scenic Trail.

The top highlight you won’t want to miss is Humpback Bridge. It’s an old wooden bridge that was built back in 1857 and is now the only covered bridge remaining in the United States.

The best time to visit the bridge is in the fall, it just looks absolutely incredible among the autumn leaves.

Humpback Bridge , Abita Brewery Company, and the Masonic Theatre

There you have it! Let me know below if there are any other cute towns in Virginia that I should add to this list.

I have been living in Virginia for five years now, and I’m so happy I got to explore these beautiful, unique small towns whilst being here.

Explore more small-town experiences.

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The 20 Most Beautiful Places In Virginia, According To A Local

From sandy beaches to mountain summits to sparkling lakes, Virginia just seems to have it all.

Erin Gifford is a travel and outdoor writer based in Virginia with 20+ years of writing and editing experience. She has also written three guidebooks on hiking trails in Virginia. 

Robbie Caponetto

Virginia has soaring mountains , ocean breezes, gorgeous state parks, and more than 500 miles of the iconic Appalachian Trail. When you want lake life and quaint towns, it's got that, too. In Virginia, you’ll find way more than historic settlements, like Jamestown, colonial architecture, and presidential homes. In fact, there are endless opportunities for exploration all across the Old Dominion State and all of the natural beauty within in.

When you’re ready to discover for yourself the most beautiful places across Virginia, here are the 20 best places to start, as suggested by a local who’s criss-crossed the state more than a few times. 

Molly's Knob

Erin Gifford

The Molly's Knob overlook at Hungry Mother State Park in Marion wows with one of the most breathtaking vistas in the entire state. It’s a fairly steep 1.8-mile hike (one-way) on the Molly’s Knob Trail and Molly’s Vista Trail, but the views across two of the state’s tallest mountains—Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain—are unmatched. Take a seat on one of the wooden benches at the overlook—you’ve earned it—and soak it all in.

Breaks Interstate Park

In Southwest Virginia, Breaks Interstate Park is home to the “Grand Canyon of the South,” a five-mile-long gorge cut into Pine Mountain that’s more than 1,650 feet deep. Several overlooks, including Towers Overlook and Stateline Overlook, are easy to reach and boast big south- and west-facing views across the Russell Fork River. In spring and fall, the elk viewing tours are unforgettable.

Chincoteague

VIRGINIA TOURISM CORPORATION/TODD WRIGHT

Chincoteague , a largely unspoiled island on Virginia's Eastern Shore, has long captivated beach-goers with its small-town charm and natural beauty. Known for its wild ponies, book a kayak tour or nature cruise with Assateague Explorer to see ponies up-close at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The wildlife refuge also features miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, as well as the red-and-white striped Assateague Lighthouse.

Courtesy Visit Loudoun

Middleburg exudes a timeless charm, enchanting visitors with its scenic vineyards, rolling hills, and an abundance of green spaces in the heart of Virginia’s wine and horse country. Take a picturesque stroll across this quaint 10-block town, making stops for fashionable boutiques, craft coffee shops, and delicious restaurants, like King Street Oyster Bar. More than a half-dozen tasting rooms call Middleburg home, including Boxwood Estate Winery and Greenhill Vineyards.

Shenandoah National Park

Getty Images/Pierre Leclerc

Shenandoah National Park is a stunner thanks to mountain vistas, rolling green hills, and rural landscapes. Motor along the park’s 105-mile Skyline Drive, which meanders north to south across the spine of the park. More than 75 overlooks and pull-outs reward visitors with gram-worthy views, including spectacularly vibrant foliage in fall. Get in your steps on hiking trails that lead to tumbling waterfalls, summit peaks, and historic homesteads.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Getty Images/Joe Potato

Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is an oasis that captivates locals and visitors alike with more than a dozen gardens set across 50 acres. Favorite gardens include Asian Valley, which features East Asian plants and water cascades, and the Louise Cochrane Rose Garden, a spectacle with more than 1,500 rose blooms. There’s also a children’s garden and flower-lined walking paths.

Smith Mountain Lake

Getty Images/Casey Johnson

Set in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Smith Mountain Lake is the state’s second largest lake. It’s a paradise for water enthusiasts thanks to its calm waters and more than 500 miles of shoreline. It’s also the sparkling centerpiece of Smith Mountain Lake State Park, which has miles of hiking trails, a swimming beach, and a family campground. There are also several wineries near the lake, including Hickory Hill Vineyards and Ramulose Ridge Vineyards.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Located in Southwest Virginia, Grayson Highlands State Park wows with grassy balds, high peaks, alpine meadows, and free-roaming wild ponies. While wild ponies are the main attraction, Grayson Highlands is also known for bouldering, fishing, and hiking on the Appalachian Trail. In spring and summer, revel in the bright pink rhododendrons that line the park’s Rhododendron Trail.

Natural Bridge State Park

In Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Natural Bridge is the namesake and centerpiece of Natural Bridge State Park . This stunning 215-foot-tall limestone arch was carved over many years by babbling Cedar Creek. Once owned by Thomas Jefferson, this awe-inspiring geological formation has held a spot on the National Register of Historic Places since 1997. A stroll under the bridge yields a surprise, too. George Washington carved his initials into the arch in 1750.

Devil's Bathtub

Devil’s Bathtub is a striking crystal-clear basin that’s known for its waterfall and swimming hole, though be warned, the water is very, very cold. For the adventurous, there are two rope swings. Tucked away in Virginia’s Jefferson National Forest, the vivid blue-green pool is the reward for a two-mile hike (one-way), which includes at least a dozen stream and creek crossings.

Dragon's Tooth

Dragon's Tooth is one-third of an awe-inspiring trifecta of gram-worthy hikes on the Appalachian Trail called the Virginia Triple Crown . This scenic trio includes McAfee Knob and Tinker Cliffs. It’s a 2.4-mile hike to reach the 35-foot-tall rock spire called Dragon’s Tooth, but it’s worth every ounce of your efforts. Enjoy the views across the Catawba Valley from the base of Dragon’s Tooth or climb to the top of the distinctive outcrop for scenic panoramas.

Cape Charles

Set on the southern tip of the peninsula known as Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Cape Charles boasts relaxing vibes and small town appeal. Come for locally-owned boutiques, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, toddler-friendly beaches with gentle waves, seafood restaurants, and scoop shops, like Brown Dog Ice Cream. Cape Charles puts on a show when the sun dips below the horizon and vibrant sunsets in shades of orange and pink paint the sky over the Chesapeake Bay.

Old Town Alexandria

Cedric Angeles

The once bustling port town of Old Town Alexandria evokes charm and history with every step on the cobblestone streets and red brick-lined sidewalks. Pop in and out of art galleries, coffee roasteries, antique jewelry shops, and renowned restaurants, like Vermilion and Vola’s Dockside Grill. Stroll alongside the marina at the historic waterfront or over to Jones Point Park to revel in stunning views across the Potomac River.

Roanoke Star

Perched high atop Mill Mountain, the Roanoke Star is the world’s largest man-made star, standing proud at 100-feet-tall. Some even call the Roanoke Star the Hollywood Sign of the East Coast. The iconic steel star has been welcoming visitors to Roanoke with open arms since late-1949. Hike or drive to the overlook for far-reaching views across the Roanoke Valley. In the evening, the super-size star lights up the night with twinkle lights.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

John O'Hagan for Southern Living

The Cumberland Gap, a significant and historic pass through the Appalachian Mountains, is celebrated at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park . This storied gateway to the west sits at the intersection of Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. A winding road leads to Pinnacle Overlook, which is officially in Virginia. The overlook boasts one of the most breathtaking panoramas of the Appalachian Mountains.

Buggs Island Lake

Getty Images/soulofages

Buggs Island Lake , also known as the John H. Kerr Reservoir, straddles the Virginia-North Carolina border. It’s a serene escape known for its expansive, gentle waters. This massive reservoir features more than 800 miles of wooded shoreline, providing an ideal backdrop for camping, fishing, and boating. Nature lovers can explore numerous trails or relax in secluded coves. There are several campgrounds around the lake, as well as Occoneechee State Park , which has cabins, a campground, a boat ramp, and miles of hiking trails.

False Cape State Park

A stone’s throw from the bustling Virginia Beach Boardwalk, False Cape State Park is among the last sections of undeveloped coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay, this gem of a state park features hiking and biking trails, as well as four primitive camping areas—two on the ocean side and two on the bay side. Camp out right on the beach and wake to a glorious sunrise. Snap a photo of the gram-worthy “Southernmost Virginia State Park” buoy before you leave the raw beauty of False Cape State Park.

In Southwest Virginia, Sand Cave is one of the most uniquely beautiful geological formations in the entire state. This 250-foot-wide cave was once a massive rock, but wind eroded the sandstone over many years, yielding this striking natural wonder. However, you’ll need to earn the chance to see this awe-inspiring geological formation with an acre of beach-like sand inside. It’s a nearly four-mile hike (one-way) to reach this unspoiled cave, which also has a small waterfall.

Great Dismal Swamp

Getty Images/Wirestock

In Southeast Virginia, the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge features a vast, mysterious landscape. It’s home to Lake Drummond, one of two natural lakes in Virginia, as well as some of the oldest and most majestic bald cypress trees in the United States. Bring a bike to pedal 4.5 miles on the Washington Ditch Trail to reach the pier for far-reaching lake views. Adventure Kayak Tours also books guided paddles on this breathtaking freshwater lake.

Westmoreland State Park

On Virgina’s Northern Neck, Westmoreland State Park is known for its stunning sandstone cliffs that tower high above the Potomac River. Bring your own watercraft or rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard at the park for an easy-breezy paddle. After your paddle, hike the 0.6-mile (one-way) Big Meadow Trail to Fossil Beach, a sandy stretch that’s popular with budding paleontologists. More than a few visitors have dug up ancient marine fossils and shark teeth.

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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

10 Of The Least-Crowded Towns To Visit In Virginia To See Fall Foliage

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• Experience the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage in Virginia's lesser-known towns for a more intimate and peaceful encounter with nature.
• Explore charming towns like Amherst, Waynesboro, and Staunton with their historic streets, vibrant foliage, and plenty of outdoor activities.
• Take in the stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit local attractions, and enjoy the small-town charm of places like Lexington, Culpeper, and Luray.

Virginia is a great place to be when it comes to enjoying the beauty of fall foliage in the US. With its rolling hills and abundant woodlands, this state offers some of the world's best fall foliage in the autumnal season. While many flock to one of the more popular towns like Luray or Waynesboro for their leaf-peeping activities, other lesser-known spots can offer a more intimate fall experience.

Virginia, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, is worth exploring as a traveler in the fall; the state transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, and there are even plenty of free outdoor activities in Virginia in the fall season, too. While places like Luray and Waynesboro have their well-deserved reputation for fall foliage, there's something uniquely special about discovering the lesser-known Virginia towns that offer a quieter, more intimate encounter with autumn's splendor.

So, if visitors are looking for the most beautiful places in Virginia for fall foliage away from the crowds - spots that offer a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life - consider one of the least-crowded towns in Virginia during the fall. From Amherst to Floyd, there's something special about each of these off-the-beaten-path locales.

Related: 14 Of The Most Beautiful Towns In Virginia You Should Visit

Just outside of Charlottesville, travelers will find Amherst - a tiny town nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Boasting less than 3,000 residents, this quaint hamlet is the perfect place to take in all that fall has to offer.

With its charming streets lined with Victorian-style homes and its vibrant foliage on full display, Amherst will surely provide an unforgettable autumn experience.

• Population : 2,152

Things To Do In Amherst, Virginia

Stroll through the historic town center, visit the Amherst Museum and Library, dine at one of the many local restaurants, and explore the breathtaking views of the Appomattox River Valley.

9 Waynesboro

Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley lies Waynesboro, one of the many beautiful and uncrowded small towns in Virginia in the fall with a population of just over 21,000.

Here, visitors can stroll through its bustling Main Street and take in the many shades of red, orange, and yellow that line the sidewalks. Whether visitors are looking to take in a stunning sunrise or sunset among the foliage, Waynesboro will surely provide an unforgettable experience.

• Population : 23,102

Things To Do In Waynesboro, Virginia

Take a guided tour of the natural sites and attractions in Waynesboro. There's plenty to see, including Big Schloss, a rocky mountain peak with stunning views of the valley below. Also, discover Bridgewater Falls, an old mill dam that is now a famous swimming hole.

Don't forget to visit Wildwood Park, where visitors can explore more than 141 acres of meadows, ponds and, woodlands, and more.

The quaint town of Staunton is situated just north of Rockfish Gap in Augusta County. With its notable downtown area full of unique shops and some restaurants, Staunton is a great place to explore during the fall.

With its rolling hills dotted with autumnal colors, this town provides stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley that are sure to take their breath away.

• Population: 25,385

Things To Do In Staunton, Virginia

Take a carriage ride through Staunton's picturesque downtown streets and admire the many historic buildings. Visit the Frontier Culture Museum, which tells the stories of immigrants who settled in America centuries ago.

Explore Gypsy Hill Park, a tranquil outdoor oasis perfect for enjoying nature's beauty. Or take a hike on the nearby Appalachian Trail to discover breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Related: Virginia Is For Lovers (And Fall Lovers): The Perfect 3-Day Weekend Itinerary In Richmond

7 Lexington

Lexington is Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains' foothills, a picturesque town full of historical charm. Home to the Virginia Military Institute, Lexington boasts a population of just over 7,000 and is the perfect spot for an autumn getaway.

With its idyllic streets lined with red and orange foliage, this town provides a unique blend of history and nature that can't be found anywhere else. Plus, when touring this town in the autumn season, visitors are never too far away from the best Blue Ridge hikes in the fall .

• Population: 7,751

Things To Do In Lexington, Virginia

Enjoy a stroll through historic downtown Lexington and take in sights like the Virginia Military Institute, Stonewall Jackson House, and Lee Chapel. Spend an afternoon at The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, exploring trails, observing exotic wildlife, and visiting the petting zoo.

Visit the nearby Natural Bridge State Park for breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a chance to see some of Virginia's most iconic foliage. Furthermore, catch a show at the historic Lime Kiln Theater, an outdoor performing arts venue that hosts concerts, plays, and other events throughout the year.

Tucked away in northern Virginia, visitors will find Culpeper - a small town on the Rapidan River. Boasting a population of just over 17,000, this charming hamlet offers some of the most incredible views of fall foliage in Virginia.

With its rolling hills and vibrant colors lining the landscape, Culpeper will surely provide an unforgettable autumn experience.

• Population: 21,184

Things To Do In Culpeper, Virginia

Stroll down leafy Main Street and explore the unique boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. Spend some time at Yowell Meadow Park for serene views of nature's fall kaleidoscope, or enjoy outdoor activities like disc golf, frisbee throwing, or picnicking.

Visit the nearby Skyline Drive for spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley, and take a hike to find some of the most picturesque foliage in Virginia. Also, bike or drive along one of Culpeper's scenic trails for a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature.

5 Middleburg

Off the beaten path in northern Virginia's Wine Country and Wine Trail lies Middleburg, a quiet town nestled in the rolling hills of Loudoun County. With a population of just over 600, this town offers views and a peaceful vibe that can't be found anywhere else.

Whether visitors are looking for a peaceful hike among the foliage or an afternoon exploring one of the town's many shops, Middleburg is a beautiful destination for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

• Population: 663

Things To Do In Middleburg, Virginia

Explore the charming shops and galleries on Washington Street for a unique shopping experience. Spend an afternoon at Tally Ho Farm, home to breathtaking scenery and a petting zoo, horseback riding, and hay rides.

Take in the spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from one of Middleburg's many trails - perfect for hiking, biking, or running. Spend a day at one of the many vineyards in nearby Leesburg for delicious wines and unbeatable views of Virginia's lush autumn foliage.

RELATED: 10 Perfect Virginia Beach Towns Worth Visiting This Year

The small town of Abingdon is situated in southwestern Virginia on the banks of the Holston River. This charming town boasts a population of just 8,000 and is home to several unique shops and restaurants.

With its vibrant fall foliage on full display, Abingdon is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful escape from city life.

• Population : 8,210

Things To Do In Abingdon, Virginia

Visit the historic Barter Theatre for a unique theatrical experience. Take in the views of fall foliage while hiking or biking along one of Abingdon's scenic trails. Plus, spend an afternoon exploring Main Street and its many shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Damascus is located on the foothills of the hiking trails of the great Blue Ridge Mountains; this tiny town is situated near Virginia's border with Tennessee. Boasting just over 900 residents, this quaint hamlet is the perfect spot for a stroll and take in all that fall has to offer.

Boasting picturesque streets lined with red and orange foliage, Damascus will surely provide an unforgettable autumn experience.

• Population: 777

Things To Do In Damascus, Virginia

Damascus is known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and camping. Visitors can find miles of trails along the scenic Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

Just outside of Roanoke lies Floyd, a small town situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With its population of just over 500, this quaint hamlet is the perfect place to get away from it all and take in all that fall has to offer.

Whether looking for a peaceful hike or an afternoon exploring one of Floyd's unique shops, this town will provide an unforgettable autumn experience.

• Population : 456

Things To Do In Floyd, Virginia

Floyd boasts miles of hiking trails for the outdoor enthusiast that lead through rolling hills and vibrant foliage. Stroll along the town's walking path or test their mettle with a more strenuous hike up nearby Buffalo Mountain.

RELATED A Guide To The Best Fall Foliage Spots In West Virginia For Leaf Lovers

Luray is another one of the least-busiest towns in Virginia to visit in the fall; this is a scenic small town nestled in the Shenandoah Valley and home to Luray Caverns, a National Natural Landmark. From this lovely spot, visitors can take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains cloaked in bold autumn colors.

There are also many walking trails throughout the area where hikers will be able to enjoy even more spectacular views as they wander through this beautiful landscape.

• Population : 4,832

Things To Do In Luray, Virginia

Explore the Luray Caverns, a National Natural Landmark and one of the most popular attractions in Virginia. Take part in outdoor adventures like hiking, rock climbing, or fishing at nearby Shenandoah National Park (which also offers dog-friendly hikes) or George Washington National Forest.

Lastly, enjoy local shops and restaurants for a taste of small-town charm.

• Destinations

Everyone In Virginia Should Check Out These 15 Tourist Attractions, According To Locals

A re you looking for some must-see attractions in Virginia ? Well, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve taken answers from you, our wonderful readers, and have compiled them into a list of sites that everyone in Virginia should experience. From hole-in-the-wall restaurants to popular attractions that are definitely worth the hype, this list can act as your official Virginia bucket list. Curious to learn more? Let’s go!

1. Mount Vernon

2. natural bridge state park, 3. colonial williamsburg, 4. highland county, 5. sandbridge beach, 7. breaks interstate park, 8. woodstock tower, 9. blue ridge parkway, 10. whiteoak canyon falls trail, 11. the great channels of virginia, 12. mabry mill, 13. peaks of otter, 14. great falls park, 15. old town alexandria.

How many of these must-see destinations in Virginia have you visited? Which would you add to the list? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! Before traveling to any of the above destinations, be sure to check out our road trip essentials packing list .

The post Everyone In Virginia Should Check Out These 15 Tourist Attractions, According To Locals appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

• 10 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Virginia

One of the original Thirteen Colonies , the Commonwealth of Virginia is an incredibly beautiful US state in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern regions stretching between the Appalachian Mountains and the Eastern Seaboard. Dotting the spectacular 42,774.2 sq. mi terrain of the Old Dominion , are innumerable breathtaking towns that often remain unnoticed by vacationers, who otherwise throng in large numbers to the state’s populous metropolises like Richmond , Virginia Beach , Chesapeake , and Norfolk . Embark on a fun-filled unforgettable vacation to these small towns for an authentic taste of what “The Mother of Presidents” has to offer.

Bedford County’s seat, Bedford sits at the base of the Peaks of Otter in the heart of southwest Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains . Vacationers visiting “The World’s Best Little Town” must stroll the downtown and browse dozens of antique stores, galleries, artist studios, and inviting restaurants. Bedford’s prominent attractions include the National D-Day Memorial, Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library, Bedford Boys Tribute Center, and Bedford Area Welcome Center. The different orchards like the A.J. Gross & Sons Orchard, and Johnson’s Orchards, in addition to natural spaces such as Falling Creek Park, Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, Blue Ridge Parkway , and Smith Mountain Lake State Park provide ample opportunities for outdoor lovers to soak in the town’s tranquility.

Founded by Virginia planter Lieutenant Colonel Leven Powell in 1787, this Loudoun County town is named such due to its location almost midway between the independent cities of Winchester and Alexandria . Referred to as the ‘Nation’s Horse and Hunt Capital,’ Middleburg is steeped in equestrian heritage and highly regarded for its foxhunting, steeplechasing, and expansive estates. The Middleburg Historic District delimited by Independence Street and Constitution Street in the east and west respectively extends along the downtown section of Washington Street and features hundreds of old structures dating from the late 18 th to the mid-19 th century. When in town, spare time to peruse the National Sporting Library & Museum, Boxwood Estate Winery, Lost Barrel Brewing, Middleburg Antique Gallery, Crème de la Crème home goods store, Middleburg Museum, Highcliffe Clothiers shop, Greenhill Winery & Vineyards, Chrysalis Vineyards, accommodations like the Red Fox Inn & Tavern, and first-rate eateries such as The Upper Crust, Middleburg Common Grounds, and King Street Oyster Bar. Held every fall, the Middleburg Film Festival at the Salamander Middleburg Resort & Spa lures over 5,000 attendees from worldwide.

The administrative center of southwestern Virginia’s Washington County, Abingdon is situated in the rolling green Blue Ridge highlands of the Appalachian Mountains, between the Middle and North forks of the Holston River, approx. 133 miles southwest of Roanoke . Labeled “Wolf Hill Tract” at the outset, the settlement was the site of Black’s Fort and was later rechristened ‘Abingdon’ after the ancestral residence of Martha Washington in southeast England’s Oxfordshire. The 159.5-acre Abingdon Historic District which covers a significant portion of the town comprises several landmark properties from the late 18 th to the mid-20 th century. The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, Washington County Courthouse, Historical Society of Washington County, Alexander Findlay House, Arts Depot, Barter Theatre, William King Museum of Art, Sinking Spring Cemetery, and Abingdon Bank are some enchanting attractions. Furthermore, Abingdon is the jumping-off point for the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34.3-mile-long multi-purpose rail trail zipping through hills, farmlands, and forests and perfect for recreational hiking and biking.

Chincoteague

Chincoteague , a serene waterfront town on the northeastern end of Virginia’s Eastern Shore, includes the entire Chincoteague Island ringed by Chincoteague Bay to the west and the Atlantic Ocean and Assateague Inlet to the east. This tiny Accomack County community is a tourist gateway next to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge of Assateague Island , a haven for bird enthusiasts and home to the world-famous Chincoteague ponies. The Museum of Chincoteague Island, Captain Timothy Hill House, Beebe Ranch, Assateague Lighthouse, Chincoteague Veteran’s Memorial Park, and Chincoteague Cultural Alliance are some noteworthy sites of interest. The town’s Main Street features an array of small-town businesses, ice cream parlors, Sundial Book Store, miniature golf courses, Island Theater, Chincoteague Island Library, home-like bed & breakfasts, and restaurants serving lip-smacking seafood. The annual Pony Swim & Auction festival of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company in July attracts thousands of merrymakers to Chincoteague.

With only 8,533 residents as per the latest US Census , Smithfield is a friendly river-port town in Isle of Wight County on the Pagan River banks in the South Hampton Roads subregion of southeastern Virginia. Affectionately called “The Ham Capital of the World,” the town is popular for curing and production of a specific form of country ham known as Smithfield ham. The 200-acre Smithfield Historic District encompassing the downtown and surrounding residential areas, comprises multiple contributing structures such as the Wentworth-Grinnan House, Old Isle of Wight Courthouse, Thomas House, etc. Smithfield’s remarkable sites of interest include St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum, Taste of Smithfield Restaurant, Isle of Wight County Museum, Waterfront Inn & Marina, William Rand Tavern (Smithfield Inn), Cypress Creek Golf Course, Fort Huger archaeological site, Smithfield & Isle of Wight Visitor Center, Windsor Castle Park, and Fort Boykin Historic Park. Revelers must attend any of the town’s yearly celebrations such as Smithfield Olden Days, Christmas Parade, and Smithfield Farmers Market.

Dubbed by Captain John Smith as the “Gem of the Eastern Shore,” this Accomack County town having only 1,263 inhabitants, is an ideal starting point for exploring the remaining portion of the Eastern Shore. Over the years, Onancock has excellently preserved its residential charm aside from a downtown district chock-a-full of classic Victorian mansions, boutique hotels, theaters, museums, top-tier restaurants, cozy bed & breakfasts, and an unparalleled art scene. The 225-acre Onancock Historic District has countless contributing properties including the Roseland Theatre, which hosts an International Film Festival, where once every month famous international films are made available for public viewing at discounted prices. From May to October, the Tangier Onancock Ferry provides holidayers an opportunity to access some of the valued assets of the Chesapeake Bay .

Cape Charles

A picture-perfect Northampton County beach town, Cape Charles sits close to the mouth of Chesapeake Bay on the southern extremity of Virginia’s Eastern Shore, bounded by the Old Plantation Creek in the south and King’s Creek in the north. Originally a planned railroad community, the town at present, has a number of meticulously maintained waterfront properties, locally-owned businesses at the commercial hub, and the spotless one-half-mile-long Cape Charles Town Beach. While in town, do tour the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Cape Charles Museum & Welcome Center, a Fun Pier adjoining the Cape Charles Town Beach, Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge, Cape Charles Harbor & Marina, Kiptopeke State Park, and the nearby 29-acre Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve. The yearly Harbor for the Arts Summer Festival in Cape Charles is the most widely known summer outdoor concert program on the Eastern Shore.

Occupying the Shenandoah Valley betwixt the Massanutten and Blue Ridge Mountains, Luray, the seat of Page County is just 90 miles west of Washington D.C. Established by William Staige Marye, the community’s closeness to the Shenandoah National Park has made it a prominent hub for adventurists. The Luray Downtown Historic District includes landmarks such as the Skyline Building, Page County Record Building, Luray United Methodist Church, etc. Outdoorsy types must traverse the scenic 105-mile-long Skyline Drive that runs along the mountain ridges throughout the entire national park, participate in subterranean tours at the Luray Caverns , tour the117-feet-high Luray Singing Tower (Belle Brown Northcott Memorial), and unwind after an eventful day at the Mimslyn Inn.

This picturesque hamlet located in the Piedmont River Valley bounded by the Rapidan and Rappahannock Rivers is the administrative center of Culpeper County. The numerous well-preserved Civil War battlefields, ancient properties, colonial-era churches, and the Museum of Culpeper History especially entice all heritage lovers. Countless quirky shops, award-winning restaurants, antique stores, and boutiques line the streets of Culpeper’s revitalized downtown. Throughout the year, the town hosts various events like Culpeper Fest, Mardi Gras celebration, Holiday Open House, Gnarly Hops & Barley Fest, Fourth of July festivities, Summer Third Thursday Concert Series, and National Horse Shows at Commonwealth Park.

Prince Edward County’s seat of government, Farmville is a flourishing college town , spread across Prince Edward and Cumberland counties in Central Virginia, along the headwaters of the Appomattox River. Aside from being home to the principal campus of Longwood University, Farmville has many interesting sites that lure residents and travelers alike. Scores of eclectic shops, museums, boutiques, coffee shops, eateries, breweries, and art galleries like the Longwood Center for the Visual Arts fill the town’s vibrant Main Street. Housed in the former Robert Russa Moton High School, the Robert Musa Moton Museum tells stories about the 1951 non-violent student demonstration that finally led to the beginning of the Civil Rights era. The High Bridge Trail State Park, Twin Lakes State Park, Dick Cross Wildlife Management Area, and the adjacent Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park are must-visits for outdoor enthusiasts. Annually, Farmville celebrates the Heart of Virginia Festival every first weekend of May with arts, local homemade crafts, music, mouthwatering cuisines, and many more.

From Bedford - “The World’s Best Little Town” to Smithfield - “The Ham Capital of the World,” the country’s 35 th largest and 12 th most-populous state is acclaimed for its plethora of small towns that bewitch millions of holidayers with their exclusive allures. Boasting gorgeous natural sceneries, impressive historical architecture, loads of enthralling attractions, abundant recreations, colorful celebrations, revitalized Main Streets, and relaxing Southern hospitality, these wonderful Virginia communities are worth adding to your lists on your next vacation to the Old Dominion .

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The official start of summer is here, and the season is gifting us with a treat: a full Strawberry Moon.

The Strawberry Moon is the sixth full Moon of 2024 and comes the day after the summer solstice, appearing at its fullest at 9:08 p.m. EDT on Friday.

According to NASA , the Strawberry Moon — also known as the “Hot Moon” or the “Planting Moon” — will be the lowest-hanging full Moon of the year.

This is the first time in 40 years that the Strawberry Moon falls on the first day of summer.

Here is everything you need to know about the full Strawberry Moon on Friday, June 21:

What is the Strawberry Moon?

According to NASA, the Strawberry Moon’s name comes from the relatively short season for harvesting strawberries in the northeastern United States.

The Native American Algonquian tribes that lived in the northwestern U.S., as well as the Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota tribes used the Strawberry Moon to mark the harvesting of wild strawberries in June, according to the Almanac .

When is the best time to see the full Strawberry Moon?

The Strawberry Moon will turn full on Friday evening, June 21, at 9:08 p.m. EDT.

NASA said in a blog post that the Moon will appear full for about three days around the same time, from Thursday evening through Sunday morning.

It’s best to view a full Moon when it appears on the eastern horizon just after the sun sets in the west, so the best time to view it will be  moonrise where you are  on Friday.

In New York on Friday, June 21, sunset is at 8:31 p.m. EDT. moonrise is at 8:49 p.m. EDT, and the time of the full moon is at 9:09 p.m. EDT.

Where to see the full Strawberry Moon

The best place to view the Moon would be somewhere high up that faces east or an east-facing coast. You’ll be able to view it with just your eyes — no equipment needed.

What will the Strawberry Moon look like?

Unfortunately, the Strawberry Moon won’t be red as a strawberry. Rather, it will be a shade of gold.

Since it’s traveling at a low arc across the sky, the Earth’s atmosphere will reflect in the moonlight, giving the Moon an orange or yellow hue.

When are the rest of the full Moons of 2024?

After the Strawberry Moon comes the full Buck Moon, exactly one month later.

Here are the rest of the full Moons in 2024, according to  EarthSky.org :

• Buck Moon: July 21 at 6:17 a.m. EDT
• Sturgeon Moon:  Aug. 19 at 2:26 p.m. EDT (Full Super moon)
• Harvest Moon:  Sept. 17 at 10:34 p.m. EDT (Full Super moon on 18th)
• Hunter’s Moon:  Oct. 17 at 7:26 a.m. EDT (Full Super moon)
• Beaver Moon: Nov. 15 at 4:29 p.m. EST (Full Super moon)
• Cold Moon:  Dec. 15 at 4:02 p.m. EST

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These 7 Hidden Spots In Virginia Are The Perfect Places To Get Away From It All

Anna Strock

Virginia staff writer for Only in Your State, freelance writer and journalist. Even though Anna has lived other places, somehow Virginia is where she always seems to land.

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Sometimes we just need to be alone – or at least away from the crowds. And even though it can seem an almost impossible task these days to get away from the business of our daily lives, Virginia has a number of hidden getaways that offer just the escape we need. Here are 7 lesser-known getaway spots in Virginia that you can explore when you need a break or just want some one-on-one time with nature.

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This is by no means a comprehensive list. There are more lesser-known getaway spots in Virginia than we can count. But these places will at least help get you started. In the meantime, where do you go to get away? Maybe it’s a neighborhood park, an art museum, a hidden beach cove, or a hike in the mountains. Wherever it is, let us know!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Lesser known getaway spots in virginia.

What are the most unique things to do in Virginia?

Living in Virginia means enjoying a multitude of unique activities, from waterfall hiking trails to trekking with llamas. If you're wondering about the most unique things you can do in Virginia, the above list of little-known destinations and getaways should offer a good start. However, there are countless other adventures that await you. To start, you might take a trip to the Grand Canyon of the South, also known as Breaks Interstate Park. Located along the Virginia/Kentucky border, this fascinating landmark is especially beautiful during the fall season. It's here that you can hike around the breaks and even take an elk tour. For more information, read our previous article highlighting all the incredible things to do at Breaks Interstate Park .

Which state parks should I visit in Virginia?

It's hard to imagine Virginia without its incredible network of state parks. If you're looking for beautiful landscapes, historical attractions, and hands-on experiences for all ages, any of Virginia's many state parks will have just what you're looking for. Both residents and visitors agree that some of the most popular state parks in Virginia include Grayson Highlands State Park, Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Hungry Mother State Park, York River State Park, First Landing State Park, Pocahontas State Park, Natural Tunnel State Park, Chippokes Plantation State Park, High Bridge Trail State Park, and Kiptopeke State Park. How many of these beautiful state parks in Virginia have you visited?

What are the best hikes with a view in Virginia?

If you enjoy beautiful overviews and lookouts while you hike, you won't be disappointed by Virginia's trail systems. Some of the best trails with a view in Virginia include Mary's Rock, Old Rag, Stony Man, Bearfence Mountain, Blackrock Summit, Humpback Rocks, Spy Rock, Cole Mountain, House Mountain, and Sharp Top. Of course, if it's mountain views you're after but you don't feel like committing to a hike, you might be interested in driving Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway. Both of these designated scenic trails offer incredible mountain views and designated pull-offs where you can admire them.

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Why CNN put Richmond, Virginia atop its new list of 'America’s Best Towns to Visit'

RICHMOND, Va. -- This dynamic city on the James River deserves more of the tourist attention enjoyed by the nation’s capital two hours to the north.

Richmond, Virginia — or “RVA,” as locals call it   — has top-notch museums and intriguing neighborhoods, and it’s a great spot for dining, drinking, and getting outdoors. There’s an impressive arts scene and a nearly year-round lineup of festivals.

And the city is taking a hard look at its complicated history — as the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War and a historic slave trading hub — and working on ways to better tell the city’s full story.

Now’s a great time for visitors to see for themselves how Virginia’s capital city has evolved.

Fine food and beverages

A thriving food scene is a must for any vibrant US city – and Richmond delivers with diverse flavors and a high concentration of black-owned restaurants.

Chef Michael Lindsey and his wife, Kimberly Love-Lindsey, opened their first restaurant – Lillie Pearl – in 2020, mid-pandemic. The restaurant blends West African heirloom ingredients, Southern African-American cuisine, and a range of global influences.

Lindsey Food Group followed Lillie Pearl by opening two locations of fried chicken fast-casual spot Buttermilk and Honey , and it has added several more restaurants to the portfolio, including modern Chophouse ML Steak downtown and in Chesterfield. Kali Love , a California fusion concept, just opened in June.

Global cuisine is evident all over town, from the deliciously messy birria tacos at Maya Latin Kitchen to Afghan fine dining at The Mantu .

Discover Richmond Tours offers a handful of  food tours that offer visitors a great way to maximize their options and explore the city’s neighborhoods at the same time.

The beverage scene is also booming.

Scott Jones, co-owner of Triple Crossing Beer , has been part of Richmond’s rise as a beer destination, thanks in part to the city’s extensive Beer Trail , which features more than 30 craft breweries. Since opening the first of three locations in 2014, Jones has witnessed a transformation of the local culture.

“The food scene, the arts scene, music and beer – they have a symbiotic relationship, and over the years they have melded together and blossomed to help make Richmond a place for people to come visit,” he says.

“We set a high standard for breweries,” says beer columnist Annie Tobey, author of “100 Things to Do in Richmond Before You Die.” “RVA has so many quality breweries that represent a wide range of styles.”

Scott’s Addition , a trendy neighborhood that has been designated Richmond’s “craft beverage capital,” is home to a collection of breweries, including Väsen and The Veil .

The surrounding region is also home to numerous wineries . For sophisticated sips without the buzz there’s Floris , Richmond’s new bespoke tearoom at the renowned Virginia Museum of Fine Arts . (Among the museum’s highlights: the largest collection of Fabergé eggs outside of Russia).

And for the coffee-inclined, Urban Hang Suite is serving up more than your average latte. Kelli Lemon, co-owner of the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience , opened the café six years ago as a community gathering and networking space. Lemon’s company is aimed at supporting black-owned culinary brands.

Busy neighborhoods full of history

Lively neighborhoods make up Richmond’s center, each contributing to the character of the city. Richmond is also home to more than 150 murals, part of an explosion of dynamic street art around town .

Known for its cobblestone streets, Shockoe Slip in southeastern downtown features contemporary restaurants and historic architecture bordered on the south by the James River. Just to the east, one of Richmond’s oldest neighborhoods, Shockoe Bottom , holds centuries of history that the city is working to highlight (more on those plans below).

Today, the neighborhoods offer a variety of bars, entertainment venues and historical sites, including a museum dedicated to onetime Richmond resident Edgar Allan Poe as well as markers along the Richmond Slave Trail, a self-guided walking route that tells the somber history of slavery in the city.

The downtown core is home to business and government buildings, including the Virginia State Capitol , and the American Civil War Museum .

One of the museum’s three sites, the American Civil War Museum at Historic Tredegar , currently features “ The Impending Crisis ,” an exhibit that explores the division of the United States on the verge of the Civil War. Guided tours are offered of the 1818 White House of the Confederacy, another unit of the museum located in the Court End neighborhood.

While Richmond’s Civil War history is well known, the city also played a role in the American Revolutionary War. Patrick Henry, a Founding Father and Virginia’s first post-colonial governor, gave his famous “Give me liberty … or give me death” speech in 1775 at Historic St. John’s Church in Church Hill.

North of the city center, Jackson Ward , once called the Harlem of the South, is a vibrant cultural hub that is home to the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia . The exhibit “Virginia is for Music Lovers: A History of Virginia’s Black Excellence in Music” opened at the museum recently.

West of downtown, the Fan District on the edge of Virginia Commonwealth University campus is known for beautiful Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, trendy cafes and upscale shops. Art lovers will enjoy the four galleries and rotating common spaces at Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU, which is free and open to the public

Farther west, the Museum District features most of the area’s major museums, including the renowned Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture .

Just south of the Museum District, Carytown — Richmond’s “mile of style” — is known for specialty shops, restaurants and the historic Byrd Theatre , a “grand movie palace” that dates to 1928 and still shows a range of films.

Across the James River from downtown, up-and-coming Manchester is known today for its industrial-chic vibe, art studios and scenic views of the river and downtown skyline. The Richmond Slave Trail starts here at the Manchester Docks.

A hard look at the past

In northeast Richmond, the statues of Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee, and other Confederate leaders that once lined Monument Avenue have been removed.

Once home to more Confederate statues than any US city, their removal amid protests against racial injustice beginning in 2020 has been part of the city’s reckoning with the long and complicated shadow the Civil War and slavery cast over Richmond’s reputation.

“Their removal has been part of a broader effort to engage with the city’s complex history,” says Carla Murray, director of marketing communications for Richmond Region Tourism . “The history is controversial, but we are committed to telling the full story.”

The monuments were transferred to the care of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia , with oversight by the Valentine Museum .

One of the statues is on display at the Valentine.

The Jefferson Davis statue — the work of sculptor Edward Valentine, the museum’s first president — was erected on Monument Avenue in 1907. The sculpture is covered in paint and displayed tipped over on its side, as it was when it was toppled by protesters in June 2020. The Valentine family pushed the “Lost Cause” myth reframing the Civil War, which is the subject of a new exhibit .

The Shockoe neighborhoods downtown are the focus of the The Shockoe Project , a City of Richmond effort to bring greater emphasis to the story of enslavement with numerous planned sites, including a National Slavery Museum.

The city still has work to do in sharing a new story with would-be visitors, says Lemon, of the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience, who also sits on the board of Virginia Tourism Corporation.

“I truly want people to visit this area, but you’re going to have to take the old way of thinking out if you want to enjoy this city. In the years since ‘RVA’ became an official brand … the community has worked to change the narrative,” says Lemon, referring to the successful RVA rebranding push launched more than a dozen years ago.

Lemon hopes that while taking in the city’s history, visitors will also come to know RVA as the center of diversity, entrepreneurship and creativity that it is.

Outdoor entertainment

That human creativity is joined by the city’s natural assets and appetite for fun.

Nature lovers will adore Maymont , a sprawling 100-acre Victorian estate and public park that sits along the James River. Maymont plans to unveil its Virginia Wildlife Trail in fall 2024, which will more cohesively and accessibly connect trails winding through the habitats of 300+ native and domestic animals and add facilities that present educational programming.

Not far from Maymont, the gorgeous 50-acre Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will soon celebrate its 40 th anniversary with a major renovation.

The city’s diverse festival season is nearly year-round. The 20 th Richmond Folk Festival , one of Virginia’s largest events, runs from September 27-29. On August 11, nearly 100,000 attendees will flock to the Carytown Watermelon Festival , Virginia’s largest single-day festival for music, a vibrant summer atmosphere, and, of course, watermelon.

RVA’s beloved Minor League baseball team, the Flying Squirrels , is gearing up for a new 10,000-seat stadium expected to open in 2026. In the meantime, games are played at The Diamond, the city’s baseball home since 1985.

And opening in the summer 2025, the 7,500-seat Riverfront Amphitheater will be a four-acre, open-air venue with stunning views of the downtown skyline and the James River.

The river offers plenty of recreation opportunities on its own. The 600-acre James River Park system features more than 20 miles (32 kilometers) of trails and water activities, including rare urban Class IV white water rapids.

“It is simply amazing,” says Tobey. “You can be on the trails or paddling the rapids, and when you’re done, you can be at a great restaurant in 10 minutes.”

That easy hop from one interesting spot to the next is just one more reason to head to Richmond right now.

Here is the full CNN Travel List: CNN Travel tapped into its network of contributors for nominations for our inaugural list of America’s Best Towns to Visit , evaluated their favorites, and winnowed the finalists to 10 by looking at each town’s attractions, food and beverage offerings, nightlife and cultural scene, sense of identity, proximity to other interesting spots and wow factor. They also looked at travel essentials, including lodging options and the ease of getting there and around. Choices range in size from about 50,000 residents to about 225,000.

10.  Duluth, Minnesota High scores:  Cool lakeside setting, outdoor activities, beverage scene

A small city best known over the years as an industrial, ore-shipping port on the Great Lakes, Duluth is now gaining a reputation as a refuge from the climate crisis. Its summers are typically quite temperate thanks to its setting alongside Lake Superior. The hilly city offers plenty of outdoor activities, a great beer scene, a cluster of lakeside attractions and a revitalized neighborhood showcasing handmade goods. You can join friendly Duluthians in a community sauna followed by a dip in cool Amity Creek.

9.  Knoxville, Tennessee High scores: Down-to-earth vibe, live music, outdoor access

You may know Knoxville as home of the University of Tennessee and its orange-and-white tsunami of fandom during sports events. Or you may know it as the host of the 1982 World’s Fair and its distinctive glass tower. But did you know this eastern Tennessee city also offers a burgeoning music scene (watch out Nashville and Memphis!), delightful classic theaters and delicious eats? And there’s a 1,500-acre Urban Wilderness for easy access to outdoor adventure.

8.  Grand Rapids, Michigan High scores:  Art and design, beer scene, outdoor activities

With a world-class sculpture park and public art all over town, Grand Rapids is far more than “Beer City USA.” But with more than 100 breweries, distilleries and cideries, Michigan’s second-largest city comes by its beverage moniker honestly. Museums showcase Grand Rapids’ deep design roots, while the Grand River nods to its family-friendly outdoor assets. And a planned amphitheater along the river’s banks is just part of a bigger waterfront revitalization effort.

7.  Macon, Georgia High scores: Musical heritage, cultural attractions, architecture

With museums and a revived studio dedicated to its musical heritage, Macon scores high on cultural attractions and the sorts of local institutions that remain beloved for generations. Macon’s revitalized downtown has made way for new restaurants, bars and a boutique hotel. And with a push to turn a site holding thousands of years of history into Georgia’s first US national park and preserve co-managed by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, the city is paying attention to how its earliest history speaks to its future.

6.  Flagstaff, Arizona High scores:  Dark skies, outdoor activities, scenery, retro vibe

Sunny days and starry nights are big draws in this high-elevation city. Enjoying lovely landscapes and the wonders of the cosmos is easy in Flagstaff, thanks to the San Francisco Peaks, numerous national monuments, the Lowell Observatory and Flagstaff’s status as a Dark Sky City. Route 66 runs through here, where retro hotels cater to travelers stopping in, and downtown has seen a renaissance. The area’s Native American history is another reason to visit.

5.  San Luis Obispo, California High scores:  Gorgeous scenery, retro vibe, outdoor activities, wineries

If you’re dreaming of old-school, relaxed California vibes, the super-pricey Bay Area and traffic-choked Southern California wouldn’t be it. But there’s a place figuratively and literally in between that’s a delightful throwback to the chill, 20 th -century Golden State. After all, they don’t call San Luis Obispo “SLO” for nothin’. Here, you can indulge in everything from wine trails to hiking trails without a crush of humanity. The stunning natural environment, with the Pacific nearby, is the cherry on top.

4.  Portland, Maine High scores:  Next-level food scene, coastal setting, outdoor access

This historic harbor town offers some seriously up-to-date dining alongside classics reflecting Maine’s status as the US lobster capital. The food scene here has put it squarely on the map as a culinary destination, with two new James Beard Awards just added to the city’s collection. You’ll also find a booming craft beer scene and tons of opportunities to get out onto the water or into the woods. Strolling the bustling center offers a window onto centuries of maritime history and a Victorian-era rebirth.

3.  Tacoma, Washington High scores: Stunning setting, outdoor access, arts scene

City settings don’t get much better than this. Tacoma’s location between Puget Sound and Mount Rainier makes for exceptional outdoor recreation in and around town. There are some pretty spectacular sights in the city, too, thanks to Dale Chihuly, the art glass master and Tacoma native. At the Museum of Glass, exhibits and glassblowers at work in its hot shop tell the story of the medium. And flightseeing tours will give you a good look at the sacred ancestral lands of the Puyallup Tribe.

2.  Providence, Rhode Island High scores: Art, architecture, design, food scene

Providence’s dazzling downtown riverfront exists thanks to decades of ambitious work relocating rivers and roads to beautify and preserve the city. Downtown’s rivers have been dancing in the firelight of beloved art installation WaterFire for decades, and public art is everywhere. The city is also home to the renowned Rhode Island School of Design and its museum. Architecture buffs will find plenty to admire, and Providence’s culinary history (with top-notch seafood and Italian cuisine) and diverse restaurants mean you’ll be treated to a global feast.

1.  Richmond, Virginia High scores: Cultural attractions, dining and drinks, intriguing neighborhoods

Richmond, Virginia – or “RVA” – deserves more of the national attention enjoyed by that other capital city a couple of hours to the north. Richmond earns high scores for its top-notch museums and dynamic neighborhoods, and it’s taking a hard look at its complicated history. Plus, it’s got a diverse, chef-driven food scene, more than 30 breweries and ready access to surrounding wine country. And there’s a nearly year-round lineup of festivals — mark your calendars for the Richmond Folk Festival in the fall.

Editor's note: Richmond-born Kari Smith’s writing journey began as a songwriter in Nashville, Tennessee, for a decade before returning to her native Virginia, where she shifted to writing magazine articles and professional blogs.

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