7 Best Road Trips To Take In Virginia
When it comes to East Coast scenic drives, few destinations can quite rival Virginia. This beautiful Southern state is rich in fascinating history, stunning natural beauty, and countless cultural attractions, making it a prime destination to join the dots and embark on a memorable road trip.
Home to the first permanent English settlement in North America and historical landmarks covering the Revolutionary War and Civil War periods, “Old Dominion” also offers scenery as diverse as the coastal beauty of the Atlantic shoreline and the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains. Find out more about this magnificent region with these seven best road trips to take in Virginia.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Starting in Waynesboro in Western Virginia and stretching for an impressive 469 miles all the way to Cherokee, North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway is undoubtedly one of the prettiest scenic road trips in the United States. Traversing the Appalachian Mountains and providing adventurous travelers with stunning vistas and numerous recreational opportunities, the Virginia portion of this epic drive meanders through the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing.
Key attractions along the route include the dramatic Humpback Rocks, which features a visitor center and historic farm site; Peaks of Otter with its pretty lake and numerous hiking trails; and Mabry Mill, a picturesque historic mill with demonstrations of old-time crafts.
Tips and Tactics: It’s worth noting that while the parkway is ideal for leisurely drives, its speed limit of 45 mph or less means you won’t get anywhere in a hurry… which really is the point, isn’t it? Lodging options include campgrounds, cabins, and great places to stay like Peaks of Otter Lodge; be prepared to book well in advance, especially in the fall when the foliage is at its peak. Services are limited along the route, so plan fuel and food stops accordingly.
Colonial Parkway
The 23-mile-long Colonial Parkway kicks off in Yorktown in Southeastern Virginia and ends in historic Jamestown, connecting with Williamsburg along the way. This lovely route offers a journey through America's colonial past with lush forests, marshlands, and views of the York River to enjoy. Plan to stop at the Colonial National Historical Park in Yorktown, where the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War took place. Other highlights include Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum, and the Jamestown Settlement, where you can explore re-creations of the original colonists' fort and Powhatan Indian village.
Tips and Tactics: While the parkway is well-maintained, it’s designed for scenic, slow-paced driving, so don’t be in a rush. Williamsburg offers a range of accommodations from historic inns to modern hotels, and for dining, consider trying traditional colonial fare in one of Williamsburg's historic taverns.
Skyline Drive
Running for 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive offers panoramic views of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley and Piedmont region. Starting at Front Royal, this scenic drive passes through Shenandoah National Park, home to diverse wildlife and over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail. Key stops include Big Meadows, known for its open grassy areas and visitor center; Dark Hollow Falls, a popular hiking destination; and the historic Skyland Resort, offering lodging and dining with scenic views.
Tips and Tactics: Skyline Drive is a toll road with an entrance fee, so carry some pocket change and small bills with you. It's open year-round, but some sections may close during inclement weather. Lodging is available within the park at Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge, and the park's campgrounds are also worth considering.
The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail
Starting at Rocky Mount and ending at Breaks Interstate Park, the Crooked Road extends 333 miles through the Appalachian Mountains and celebrates the musical heritage of Southwest Virginia. This wonderfully scenic route takes you through small towns known for bluegrass, country, and old-time music, with notable stops including the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum in Ferrum, which showcases regional folk life. Other must-see attractions along the way include the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol and the Ralph Stanley Museum in Clintwood, dedicated to the legendary bluegrass musician.
Tips and Tactics: This picturesque route features numerous music venues, festivals, and events to plan an epic road trip. Accommodations range from bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels, and for a unique stay, consider the Breaks Interstate Park. Known as the Grand Canyon of the South, it offers lodging, camping, and stunning views of the gorge.
Northern Neck Heritage Trail
The Northern Neck Heritage Trail takes you through Virginia’s Northern Neck, a region rich in history and natural beauty. Starting in Fredericksburg and ending in Reedville, this lovely drive passes historic homes, wineries, and scenic rivers. Highlights include George Washington’s Birthplace National Monument in Colonial Beach, Stratford Hall (home of the Lee family), and the fishing village of Reedville, known for its Victorian architecture and the Reedville Fishermen's Museum.
Tips and Tactics: This beautiful area of Virginia offers various lodging options, from picturesque waterfront cottages to classy historic inns perfect for a romantic getaway. Many wineries in the region feature tours and tastings, while seafood lovers will want to include the Northern Neck’s famous fresh oysters and blue crabs at the many seafood restaurants here.
Virginia's Route 5: The Plantation Highway
Route 5, or the Virginia Capital Trail, stretches 52 miles along the James River, stretching from Richmond to Williamsburg. This historic byway passes by some of Virginia’s oldest plantations, including Shirley Plantation, Berkeley Plantation, and Westover Plantation, each offering tours and insights into colonial life. The route is also popular with cyclists and features a dedicated path alongside the road.
Tips and Tactics: Accommodations range from riverfront lodges to charming bed-and-breakfasts in nearby towns. The trail is well-suited for cycling enthusiasts, with rental services available in Richmond and Williamsburg. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic riverfront parks along the way.
Highland Scenic Byway
The Highland Scenic Byway is a 19-mile drive offering views of rolling hills, valleys, and farmland in the Allegheny Highlands. Kicking off in Monterey and ending in the small community of Blue Grass, it’s particularly beautiful in spring and fall when colorful wildflowers and foliage provide a stunning backdrop that’s begging to be explored. Key attractions along this pretty route include the Highland County Museum in McDowell and the annual Maple Festival, which celebrates the region’s maple syrup production each March.
Tips and Tactics: If you’re looking for a less traveled scenic route, the Highland Scenic Byway is for you as it provides a very relaxed driving experience. Lodging options are limited but include quaint bed-and-breakfasts and farm stays. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers plenty of hiking, bird-watching, and fishing opportunities.
The Final Word
As an avid road-tripper who’s explored many of the USA’s most scenic byways, including Route 66 and the incredible Overseas Highway connecting Miami to Key West, I’m always impressed with Virginia’s diversity of pretty tourist routes. From the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive to the historical significance of the Colonial Parkway and Route 5, each of these epic journeys offers no end of unique experiences. These road trips not only highlight Virginia’s natural and cultural treasures but also provide practical tips for making the most of your travels. So fuel up, buckle in, and enjoy these seven best road trips to take in Virginia.
