Best Places to Visit in Virginia United States
Best Places to Visit in Virginia United States ,Begin your journey through the enchanting landscapes, vibrant history, and charming cities of Virginia, a premier travel destination in the United States, with BearTravel. Our reliable travel expertise brings you closer to Virginia’s attractions, creating a seamless blend of historical sites, azure beaches, and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains for your unforgettable experiences. Explore scenic drives with breathtaking vistas and encounter wildlife that adds to Virginia’s irresistible allure. Step into Virginia’s historical sites, where eight U.S. Presidents were born, a testament to the state’s deep-rooted historical lineage. The comprehensive BearTravel portal invites you to experience the hospitality of diverse cities, including Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Charlottesville, Norfolk, and Richmond.
BearTravel commits to spotlight the best of Virginia tourism, curating a selection of must-see places that enhance your Virginia vacation experience. Dive into the state’s rich colonial and Civil War history, explore the lively Virginia nightlife, and take peaceful strolls through picturesque mountain towns and coastal hamlets under the guidance of BearTravel. With our guidance, participate in an array of outdoor activities, visit Virginia’s prestigious museums, lose yourself in the tranquil beauty of Virginia’s national and state parks, or relish culinary delights at top Virginia restaurants. We feature shopping districts, art galleries, local festivals, and acclaimed Virginia wineries that add vibrant layers to your journey. Whether you prefer the bustling cityscape of Arlington, the historic charm of Richmond, or the serene beachscape of Virginia Beach, BearTravel directs you to each unique attraction. We suggest calling ahead to confirm current opening times for attractions and restaurants for a seamless Virginia travel experience.
Williamsburg
Intimately connected with America’s Colonial History, Williamsburg, Virginia, stands as a vibrant historical hotspot. Founded in 1632 as a strategic fortified settlement nestled between the James and York Rivers, it held the position as the capital of the Colony of Virginia from 1699 to 1780 The sprawling open-air museums, Colonial Williamsburg and Historic Jamestown, offer must-see attractions covering several city blocks. Here, visitors can explore meticulously restored buildings dating from the 17th to 19th centuries, vividly brought to life by historical reenactors in period clothing. The grand Governor’s Palace, once the home of two of the Virginia Colony’s early governors, is the star attraction of Colonial Williamsburg. Alongside its historical treasures, Williamsburg also delivers modern entertainment with exhilarating roller coasters and child-friendly rides at Busch Gardens, and Water Country USA’s thrilling water slides, wave pool, and lazy river, making it the perfect location for a family day out.
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Best for: History enthusiasts, Family outings, Adventure seekers, Education and fun
Ideal for: Family vacations, History field trips, Adventure holidays
Abingdon
Abingdon, Virginia, a certified National Historic Landmark, narrates a historical saga through its brick-paved downtown and sprawling suburbs. The Yeary Cabin, a representative of Historic Abingdon, provides insights into the impoverished lifestyle of the mid-20th century. On the other hand, the Fairview Historic Homestead brings new settlers’ experiences to life. The Sinking Spring Cemetery, holding graves from 1776, remains a silent chronicler of history. The Virginia Creeper Trail and the Appalachian Trail serve as serene walkways, while the Barter Theater, hosting acclaimed actors like Gregory Peck, Hume Cronyn, and Ernest Borgnine since 1933, symbolizes the town’s cultural fervor.
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Best for: History buffs, Nature enthusiasts, Theatre lovers
Ideal for: Family outings, Romantic getaways, Solo exploration, Cultural trips
Winchester
Nestled in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Winchester harbors significant American Civil War events. The city, having seen seven battles, now hosts the remains of five Civil War-era forts. The surrounding apple orchards teem with activity during fall’s apple-picking season. Every May, the city showcases the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, featuring a carnival, parade, fireworks, dances, and an Apple Blossom Queen crowning. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, set within an 18th-century structure, presents regional history and art, complemented by six acres of manicured gardens. Visitors often explore Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson’s headquarters or enjoy guided horse-riding at the Rocking S Ranch.
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Best for: History enthusiasts, Nature lovers, Art connoisseurs
Ideal for: Family trips, Romantic getaways, Educational visits, Outdoor activities
Virginia Beach
With an array of activities, Virginia Beach, Virginia, serves as a paradise for holidaymakers. Three unique beaches stretch over fourteen miles of sandy coastline and a bustling three-mile Virginia Beach boardwalk teeming with outdoor dining spots, nautical statues, shopping venues, and oceanfront stages for live performances, cater to walkers, inline skaters, and cyclists. Beyond its beach attractions, the city offers amusement rides, golfing, sea kayaking, boat tours, and a vibrant nightlife. Suitable for families, couples, and solo explorers, the city also hosts the historical First Landing State Park and the Back Bay National Wildlife Preserve for nature lovers to observe diverse wildlife.
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Best for: Beach lovers, Outdoor enthusiasts, History buffs, Nature lovers
Ideal for: Family vacations, Couple retreats, Solo travel, Adventure trips
Old Town Alexandria
Situated in Alexandria, Virginia, the Old Town Historic District, marked by charming cobblestone streets, is a history-steeped vibrant hub. Historic edifices, art galleries, antique shops, and eateries set against the serene Potomac River make up its diverse array. The district’s heart, Market Square, in operation since 1753, was once the United States’ second largest slave market. You can trace George Washington’s footsteps by visiting Gadsby’s Tavern, exploring the pharmacy he and Martha frequented, or observing his pew at Christ Church. The Torpedo Factory Art Center, an erstwhile World War II torpedo factory, now serves as a dynamic space for over eighty artists, giving visitors a peek into the creation of contemporary art.
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Best for: History buffs, Art Lovers, Food Enthusiasts
Ideal for: Day Trips, Educational Visits, Family outings
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, located on the Virginia part of Assateague Island, serves as a sanctuary for nature lovers and features the famous Chincoteague ponies. These unique horses have adapted to a diet of salt marsh plants and grasses. The refuge harbors a range of species, including endangered ones like the sika deer and the piping plover. Visitors can anticipate sightings of brown pelicans, merlins, red foxes, fox squirrels, and white-tailed deer. The island also designates areas for ocean swimming, boating, horseback riding, and over-sand vehicle driving. Moreover, the island’s shores scatter with shipwrecks, prompting the 1833 lighthouse construction, offering engaging exploration. Lastly, visitors with a valid Virginia fishing license can participate in fishing, crabbing, and clamming.
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Address/Location: Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Assateague Island, Virginia
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Best for: Wildlife Viewing, Nature Walks, Recreational Activities
Ideal for: Nature Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Adventure Seekers
Shenandoah National Park
Unveiled in the 1920s, Shenandoah National Park, embedded in Virginia’s grandiose Blue Ridge Mountains and the rolling hills of the Piedmont, represents nature’s magnificence. The landscape encapsulates the twisting Shenandoah River and its lush valleys. A standout attribute is the Skyline Drive, a 105-mile route bisecting the park, promoting leisurely exploration with its seventy-five overlooks presenting awe-inspiring views. Extensive hiking trails spanning 500 miles, including a stretch of the Appalachian Trail, provide boundless exploration opportunities. Camping sites, lodges, and restaurants punctuate the park. Visitors will find cascading waterfalls and various natural attractions, amid a remarkable collection of wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, beavers, foxes, deer, cougars, and over 200 bird species.
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Best for: Nature Lovers, Adventurers, Hikers, Birdwatchers
Ideal for: Family outings, Romantic getaways, Solo trips, Adventure holidays
Richmond
Richmond, the capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia since 1742, bears a rich historical legacy. It served as the Confederate States’ capital during the American Civil War and was the site of Patrick Henry’s impactful “give me liberty or give me death” speech during the American Revolution. This city, distinguished by its stunning architecture, important monuments, museums, and a dynamic arts scene, is a cultural hub. It hosts the Virginia Repertory Theater, the largest theater company in the state, as well as the Richmond Symphony, Virginia Opera, and the Richmond Ballet Corps. The Edgar Allan Poe Museum, housing artifacts and his writings, is a top attraction for tourists. Moreover, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, with its extensive collections of global art dating back 5,000 years, underscores the city’s cultural prominence.
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Best for: History enthusiasts, Arts and Culture lovers
Ideal for: Historical tours, Cultural explorations, Art appreciation visits
Staunton
Staunton, Virginia, renowned as Woodrow Wilson’s birthplace, the 28th U.S. President, boasts historical allure and a dynamic arts scene. The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, located in a large Presbyterian manse, marks his birthplace. Moreover, the Museum of Frontier Culture recreates history, with four functional farms depicting 17th to 19th-century farm life. In Staunton, arts and culture are prominent, with the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Theater staging Shakespeare plays year-round and the Heifetz International Music Institute running summer programs. The city also hosts various art schools, a university, and a collection of historic houses in its vintage district.
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Best for: History enthusiasts, Arts and Culture lovers
Ideal for: Educational visits, Historical tours, Cultural explorations
Appomattox Court House National Historic Park
American history preserves Appomattox Court House National Historic Park, Virginia, marking the American Civil War’s conclusion. On the historic day of April 9, 1865, Confederate Army General Robert E. Lee conceded to Union Commander Ulysses S. Grant at the McLean House in Appomattox, Virginia. This pivotal event led to the creation of a park in 1935, which now conserves nearly two dozen carefully restored 19th-century structures. The park features a museum, a theater, a bookshop, and the revered grounds where the Civil War’s final battles took place. The history trail, spanning 4.5 miles, guides visitors to significant landmarks, including Lee’s headquarters, the plains of conflict, and Sweeney’s Prizery, a 1790 tobacco-packing house, which is the park’s oldest building. The park’s uneven landscape, however, poses accessibility challenges for wheelchair users.
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Best for: History buffs, nature enthusiasts
Ideal for: Educational trips, family outings, solo exploration
Charlottesville
Charlottesville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains’ foothills, is famous for its historical significance. In this town, Thomas Jefferson built his renowned home, Monticello, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Presidents Monroe and Madison also lived here, with Monroe’s Highland residence open to the public. Jefferson designed the early buildings and grounds of the University of Virginia, drawing Edgar Allan Poe enthusiasts. Recently, Virginia’s wines have been rising in popularity, with twenty vineyards near Charlottesville hosting tasting tours. Additionally, the locale’s outdoor attractions include river kayaking, trail hiking or cycling, scenic drives, and diverse orchards.
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Best for: History buffs, Wine enthusiasts, Nature lovers
Ideal for: Family trips, Educational visits, Wine tours, Outdoor activities
Manassas National Battlefield Park
Civil War battlefields surround Manassas National Battlefield Park in Virginia, offering an immersive slice of history. Here, pivotal battles of Bull Run, or Manassas, took place, and General Thomas J. Jackson, famously known as Stonewall Jackson, earned his name. Every year, numerous visitors engage in ranger-led tours, watch enlightening video presentations, traverse trails, and visit a museum that houses historical artifacts. Visitors also explore the Stone House, used as a hospital during the conflicts, and the Stone Bridge, where the Union Army retreated.
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Best for: History buffs, Outdoor enthusiasts, Educational tours
Ideal for: School field trips, Family outings, Historical explorations
Virginia Creeper Trail
Spanning the remnants of an old railway, the Virginia Creeper Trail covers an impressive 35 miles as a multi-purpose rail trail. Converted into a rail trail in 1977, it has attracted hikers, bikers, and equestrians due to its easy navigation and visual delight. During fall, the tree leaves turn into a kaleidoscope of colors, enchanting visitors. This path first served the Abingdon Coal and Iron Railroad in the 1880s, before the Virginia-Carolina Railroad took over in 1900 amid financial turmoil. A unique 4-8-0 steam locomotive marks the journey’s start at Abingdon. Along the path, several restored train stations and two cabooses punctuate the scenery, and conveniently positioned emergency call boxes ensure safety.
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Address/Location: Virginia Creeper Trail, Virginia
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Best for: Hiking, Biking, Equestrian Activities, Fall Foliage Viewing
Ideal for: Outdoor Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Families
Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historic Park
In the grand tapestry of American history, the Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historic Park in Virginia holds a distinguished thread. A decisive Union victory emerged at the Cedar Creek Battlefield during the American Civil War, imprinting its name on the annals of history on October 19, 1864 Although private hands own most of this historic battlefield, restricting public exploration, thoughtful ranger-led tours and self-driving routes actively illuminate the battle’s key moments. The notable Belle Grove plantation house complements this martial history. Descendants of German settlers fashioned this wedding gift from local limestone in 1797, encapsulating Federal style architecture. This superbly preserved 18th-century manor house offers a glimpse into the past through tours of the manor, the 1815 icehouse, smokehouse, the poignant slave cemetery, and the heritage orchard. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Shenandoah Valley, framed by the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains.
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Best for: History enthusiasts, nature lovers
Ideal for: Family outings, educational field trips, solo exploration
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
Despite the 1779 fire that leveled the original structure, George Washington’s birthplace, a National Monument in Virginia, endures. A precise reproduction of the house, birthplace of the first president in 1732, reflects the era’s upper-class lifestyle. Guests can tour the Memorial House, decked out with period furnishings, and the Kitchen House, where historical reenactors demonstrate traditional candle and soap production. The Colonial Herb and Flower Garden, boasting plants from Washington’s time, and the Colonial Living Farm, which practices traditional farming, enhance the authenticity. The farm’s Red Devon oxen, descendants of Washington’s own livestock, are a notable feature. The Visitor’s Center houses artifacts from the original house and screens a 15-minute film about the Washington family. The monument’s cemetery, containing 32 graves of the Washington family, is also open for visits.
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Best for: History enthusiasts, Nature lovers
Ideal for: Family trips, Educational visits, Cultural immersion
Luray Caverns
Holding the title of the largest commercial cave system in the eastern United States and a premier Virginia attraction, Luray Caverns unveils a stunning subterranean spectacle. Four local men discovered it in 1878, and this noteworthy landmark exhibits a fascinating array of geological formations, drawing an international audience. Nestled 164 feet below the surface, the caverns maintain a steady 54 degrees Fahrenheit, presenting stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, mirror pools, and flowstones. The Great Stalacpipe Organ, a natural lithophone, is the highlight, emitting harmonious sounds akin to a xylophone when struck. The spacious cavern also serves as a unique wedding venue. The guided tour, which visitors complete in approximately 45 minutes to an hour, covers 1.5 miles. We recommend that visitors wear sneakers for optimal traction. Nevertheless, individuals with mobility limitations may face accessibility challenges.
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Address/Location: Luray Caverns, Virginia
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Best for: Geological Exploration, Adventure Tourism, Unique Wedding Venue
Ideal for: Tourists, Wedding Couples, Adventure Seekers, Geology Enthusiasts
Blue Ridge Parkway
Stretching over 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, key landmarks of the Appalachian Mountain chain, artistically. As the United States’ longest linear park, it showcases breathtaking vistas and vibrant wildflowers amidst majestic forests. Oak, hickory, and tulip trees blanket the forested land, while fir and spruce grace the higher elevations. Features like the self-guided trail at Humpback Ridge, adorned with historic Appalachian farm structures, resonate echoes of Appalachian culture. Panoramic views from Raven’s Roost captivate photographers, while adventurers hang-glide off the cliff or challenge the sheer face. The tranquil Sherando Lake, a cherished National Recreation Area, invites for swimming, picnicking, and camping. Hikers can tackle the demanding trails of the Roanoke Mountains. Numerous eateries and accommodations provide convenience along the Parkway.
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Address/Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia
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Best for: Sightseeing, Nature Photography, Adventure Sports, Hiking
Ideal for: Nature Enthusiasts, Adventurers, Photographers, Families
Smithfield
Inaugurated in 1630, Smithfield situates itself on the Pagan River as a city with a rich historical and culinary heritage. This strategic location served as a refuge during warfare, facilitating essential supplies and weapons transportation. However, the iconic Smithfield Ham, an over-century-old tradition, crowns Smithfield as the global leader in pork processing and hog production. Visitors flock to the historic St. Luke’s Church, the oldest in Virginia, for a journey down memory lane. Nearby, the Old Courthouse stands as a symbol of the city’s history, while the town’s outskirts house two abandoned forts – Fort Huger, a Civil War relic, and Fort Boykin, an early defender against Native American and Spanish threats.
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Address/Location: Smithfield, Virginia
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Best for: Historical Sightseeing, Culinary Experiences, Church Tours
Ideal for: History Buffs, Foodies, Culture Enthusiasts, Families
Roanoke
The Blue Ridge Mountains cradle Roanoke, a city nestled within the Roanoke Valley, offering convenient access via the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. For almost two centuries, Roanoke has anchored passenger transit and the coal mining industry of Virginia and West Virginia. The Virginia Museum of Transportation, boasting an extensive array of steam locomotives, invites visitors to delve into the city’s rich railway heritage. A must-visit is Mill Mountain, crowned with the world’s largest manmade star. This towering monument provides unrivaled cityscape and mountainous vistas. Mill Mountain’s meticulously landscaped park, zoo, and numerous hiking trails present a delightful family outing option.
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Address/Location: Roanoke, Virginia
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Best for: Exploring Railway Heritage, Family Outing, Mountain Sightseeing
Ideal for: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families
Bristol
Nestled in Southwest Virginia, Bristol straddles the Virginia-Tennessee border along State Street, earning fame as country music’s birthplace. The record label discovered the Carter family here in 1927, contributing significantly to the region’s rich folk music. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum in the town showcases its musical roots and global influence on country music. Every September, Bristol hosts the spirited Bristol Rhythm and Roots show, a music festival celebrating Appalachian sounds.
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Best for: Music lovers, History enthusiasts, Festival goers
Ideal for: Family outings, Music-inspired trips, Historical exploration
Virginia’s Natural Bridge Park
Tucked away in Virginia, Natural Bridge Park hosts an imposing geological formation. Over countless centuries, natural processes meticulously chiseled a natural arch from limestone and dolomite. The Monacan Indians revered this sacred site before European explorers set foot in the region. In 1750, George Washington, then a young land surveyor, bought 157 acres of land housing the natural bridge, marking it as a significant landmark. Esteemed as a cornerstone of Virginia tourism during the 18th and 19th centuries, Herman Melville even likened its size to the whale in his novel, Moby-Dick. Today, visitors to Natural Bridge Virginia can explore the historic hotel, the reconstructed Monacan village, and the sprawling caverns buried thirty-seven stories underground.
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Address/Location: Natural Bridge, Virginia
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Best for: Historical Exploration, Nature Walks, Underground Tours
Ideal for: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families
Norfolk
Situated on the captivating shores of Chesapeake Bay and framed by the Elizabeth River, Norfolk combines scenic allure with rich history. It hosts the world’s largest navy base, Naval Station Norfolk, and functions as one of two NATO Strategic Command Headquarters. Even after being severely damaged in the American Revolution, the city has emerged as a center of arts, culture, and entertainment. Among its highlights, the floating museum of USS Wisconsin, an American battleship that served in World War II’s Pacific theater, stands out. To reach this ship, visitors must traverse the Nauticus Center, a maritime science museum filled with hands-on learning modules and touch pools. Plus, the internationally acclaimed Chrysler Museum of Art showcases masterpieces from renowned artists like Rubens, Matisse, Manet, Cezanne, and Gaugin.
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Best for: History buffs, Arts and Culture enthusiasts
Ideal for: Historical tours, Cultural explorations, Art appreciation visits
Frequently Asked Questions about Virginia, United States
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How do I get to Virginia, United States?
A: Virginia has several airports, including Washington Dulles International Airport which is the largest airport in Virginia. There are also various train and bus services that can take you to Virginia.
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What is the best time of year to visit Virginia, United States?
A: The best time of year to visit Virginia is during late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October). During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the fall foliage makes for beautiful scenery.
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What are some interesting facts about Virginia, United States?
A: Virginia is known as the “Mother of Presidents” as eight U.S. presidents were born there. It is also home to the world’s largest naval base, Norfolk Naval Base, and the world’s largest office building, the Pentagon.
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What is the weather like in Virginia, United States?
A: Virginia experiences four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers and cold winters. The coastal areas have a milder climate, while the inland regions have more extreme temperature fluctuations.
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What language is spoken in Virginia, United States?
A: The official language of Virginia is English, but due to its diverse population, you may hear other languages spoken as well.
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What is the currency used in Virginia, United States?
A: The currency used in Virginia, United States is the US dollar.
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What is the local food in Virginia, United States?
A: Virginia is known for its seafood, particularly blue crabs, and ham. Popular dishes include crab cakes, fried oysters, and Smithfield ham.
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What time zone is Virginia, United States in?
A: Virginia is located in the Eastern Time Zone.
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What is the electricity voltage in Virginia, United States?
A: The electricity voltage in Virginia, United States is 120 volts AC, 60 Hz.
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Do I need a visa to visit Virginia, United States?
A: It depends on your country of origin. Citizens of certain countries may need to obtain a visa before entering the United States, while others may be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program and can enter the United States for up to 90 days without a visa.
