10 Incredible Vacation Spots In Virginia
Between the Chesapeake Shores to the east and the Blue Ridge peaks to the west, Virginia hosts a sizeable share of amazing places to visit. Its captivating and diverse heritage ensures all visitors can get a bite of the fun pie. From learning about the first English settlement and exploring Civil War battle sites to discovering under-explored national parks and visiting quaint little towns on the up and up, the possibilities are limitless for a motivated vacationer.
With so many options to your discretion, finding the ideal getaway can be a painstaking process. However, digressing from the big-city bustle to the quieter countryside is an excellent consideration. To get you started, here are some of the best vacation spots in Virginia for your upcoming adventure.
Luray Caverns
The most extensive system of caves in Eastern America intrigues with an unforgettable underground adventure. The stuff of wonder, Luray Caverns, were discovered in 1878 and feature ornately decorated chambers with elaborate stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and cascades that have crystalized over the centuries to create a magical landscape. Visitors can walk through well-lit and paved pathways to explore cathedral-sized rooms with high ceilings and crystal-clear pools. A unique musical instrument, the Great Stalacpipe Organ, amazes by creating haunting tunes using the stalactite formations in the cave.
Besides the cave tour, guests can stop by the Luray Valley Museum to learn about the history of the Shenandoah Valley in a 19th-century village filled with artifacts, memorabilia, and relics. These highlight everything from the Native American occupation to the First Frontier Settlement, the Civil War, and the Colonial iron industry. Also, the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum offers a unique perspective on transportation in the early days through a vintage vehicle collection, including a 19th-century Mercedes Benz.
Historic Triangle
Virginia's Historic Triangle is a living history museum providing an immersive journey into the Colonial era, the American Revolution, and the First English Settlement. It is made up of three neighboring towns between the James and York Rivers: Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, with historical significance. Yorktown hosted the final major battle of the Revolutionary War, "The Siege of Yorktown," which played out at the Yorktown Battlefield in 1781. Just minutes from the sites, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown brings the conflict into perspective with exhibits, films, and written testimonies.
Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in America, establishing the New World. With a heritage dating back to 1607, the town lets you walk in the footsteps of Pocahontas and Captain John Smith. At Jamestown Settlement, you can browse galleries, historic ships, and a Powhatan Indian village depicting life in 17th-century Virginia. Finally, Colonial Williamsburg was the first capital of the Virginia Colony and features a 300-acre complex with dozens of old homes, shops, and buildings from the 1700s. The village stays in character throughout the day, giving visitors an authentic feel of Colonial Virginia.
Smithfield
"The Ham Capital of the World" offers more than its iconic ham; its historic downtown district harbors a trove of historic treasures that transport you to earlier times. This rustic neighborhood houses Virginia's oldest brick church, St. Luke's Historic Church, which dates back to the 17th century and holds guest tours that explore centuries of American history. The Isle of Wight Courthouse is another highlight in the historic district. Although initially constructed in 1750, the building was renovated in 1800 and stores valuable information about the town's past.
Windsor Castle Park provides a lovely cocktail of history and nature. This beautiful Greek Revival plantation home, built in 1750, sits on a 208-acre property along the banks of Cypress Creek and the Pagan River. The park has over 4 miles of trails, a fishing pier, a kayak launch, and a mountain bike trail.
Mount Vernon
Virginia is steeped in Presidential history, and Mount Vernon is the perfect place to learn about America's first presidents. This small community of Fairfax County hosts the former residence of President George Washington, where he stayed from 1754 till his death. George Washington's Mount Vernon features 21 rooms with period pieces and several of the president's personal belongings. These are decorated with vivid paint and wallpaper popular in the 18th century and reflect Washington's color preferences. The mansion is surrounded by landscaped gardens and lawns overlooking the beautiful Potomac River.
The Mount Vernon Trail connects George Washington's Mount Vernon to Theodore Roosevelt Island. This lovely pathway stretches 18 miles along the George Washington Memorial Parkway and passes several bridges across the Potomac River. It offers an excellent way to experience the outdoors and is accessible on foot, by bike, or by public transportation.
Charlottesville
Consistently ranked among the top places to live in the state, this vibrant college town makes for one of the best vacation spots in Virginia due to its variety of attractions. Charlottesville hosts beautiful historical homes of two former U.S. presidents that guests can tour. The grandiose Monticello welcomes you to learn about the legacy of Thomas Jefferson at his 18th-century plantation home by perusing artifacts, furniture, gadgets, and personal memorabilia. Meanwhile, the Paramount Theater is a regional culture hub known to host a variety of live performances, including comedies, musicals, and concerts. It also screens classic and new films in a rustic yet cozy venue.
Oenophiles who appreciate the taste of finely crafted wines can sample award-winning varieties at Blenheim Vineyards. This 32-acre establishment specializes in brands like Chardonnay and Petit Verdot and has a pleasant wood-frame tasting room overlooking its lush vineyards.
Floyd
This tiny village in Floyd County is recognized for its lively art scene, making it an excellent escape for art and music enthusiasts. The Floyd Country Store hosts the Friday Night Jamboree every week, where townsfolk gather to watch bluegrass music performances in an upbeat atmosphere. This is an opportunity to partake in an old-time tradition and experience local culture firsthand. Downtown Floyd is awash with art galleries at every turn. However, the Floyd Center for the Arts is the central hub, hosting concerts, galleries, classes, events, and art exhibitions by local and regional artists.
The weekly Floyd Farmers Market allows visitors to support local industry and small businesses. It unites crafters, farmers, and vendors from the region, hoping to attract potential buyers by displaying fresh farm produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, and other attractive merchandise.
Shenandoah National Park
Nature calls at the Shenandoah National Park, beckoning vacationers to immerse in 200,000 acres of the great outdoors along the Blue Ridge Mountains. From spectacular vistas and cascading waterfalls to scenic drives and wildlife habitats, the stage is set for a remarkable adventure. Shenandoah offers 500 miles of trails ranging in length and difficulty level that you can follow to explore the reserve. If you love to chase waterfalls, the 5-mile Hazel River Falls Trail presents a rewarding challenge through a rugged section that culminates in an exceptional waterfall.
Dozens of streams wind through Shenandoah, including the Potomac, James, and Rappahannock, resulting in endless angling opportunities. These support dozens of fish species, including brook trout, mottled sculpins, and bluehead chubs. Meanwhile, expect to run into different wildlife species domiciled in the park, from mammals and birds to reptiles. Nature photographers can bring their equipment to capture black bears, white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, and other animals in their element.
Staunton
Staunton seamlessly blends the new with the old in its vibrant downtown, where historic structures with fascinating architecture interact with modern art centers. Its walkable streets are home to the world-famous American Shakespeare Center, a magnificent recreation of Shakespeare's indoor theatre. The Renaissance-style venue stages classic and contemporary plays, concerts, and musicals by multifaceted actors in a spirited atmosphere. Meanwhile, Sunspots Studios Glassblowing introduces guests to the sophisticated art of glassblowing. Buyers watch amazing demonstrations before spending on a lovely piece for their home decor.
Architecture buffs are naturally drawn to the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, which stands out for its vintage red-brick, Chateausque design. The facility offers a glimpse into President Woodrow Wilson's life and times by preserving his birthplace, artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia from different periods.
Lexington
Lexington is a town steeped in history and offers a fascinating journey back in time. Its modest downtown houses a fair share of historical markers, starting with Miller's House Museum. This 19th-century home holds a collection of exhibits depicting industrial and transportation evolution. It has an elaborate diorama of Lexington's railroad system. The VMI Museum focuses on the heritage of the Virginia Military Museum. Guests can take cadet-guided tours to browse curious exhibits, such as old firearms and helmets, and learn about the college's history-making alumni.
Nature lovers have multiple outdoor escapes to be in their element. Boxerwood Nature Center and Garden is an excellent option, featuring a 15-acre arboretum with native and exotic plant species. The sanctuary's serene atmosphere and several picnic areas let you relax and enjoy the fresh air.
Chincoteague
This nature lover's paradise takes vacationers to an island getaway on Virginia's Eastern Shore. Known for its stunning beaches and wild ponies, you can visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge to witness these natural wonders. The reserve has a 15-mile trail system for hikers to explore and interact with the over 250 bird species that call it home. Also, the annual Pony Swim is a must-see event on the island. Wild ponies swim across the Assateague Channel to the delight of cheering crowds.
Chincoteague's colorful heritage is preserved and interpreted at the Museum of Chincoteague Island. This quaint facility displays an array of archives chronicling the island's people, history, and culture over the years, including its seafood and oystering exploits.
Final Thought
While there is no limit to the range of experiences offered by the Old Dominion, the highlighted destinations present a convincing case for the best vacation spots in Virginia. The state's natural diversity gives travelers multiple options to find something that matches their preferences. Whether you seek to indulge in outdoor adventures, discover natural wonders, experience creative hubs, or immerse in historic lore, there is always something to tickle your fancy on the next vacation in the United States.
