8 Underrated Destinations In Virginia To Avoid Summer Crowds
When summer wakes us up from hibernation, many people enter a state of tourist-frenzy and go for the most popular spots. Many others, though, decide to enjoy summer more peacefully. These traveling destinations offer plenty of activities, beaches, and parks that will provide you with a healthy dose of relaxation. From secluded beach towns with pristine shores to remote mountain towns enveloped in natural beauty, these locations grant an escape into tranquility. Virginia boasts stellar landscapes like the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park, and Sandbridge Beach. Thankfully, these areas offer outdoor recreational opportunities and a chance to savor the true essence of summer in peaceful bliss.
Sterling
Located about 26 miles west of Washington, D.C., Sterling is a small town with a rich history. It attracts peace-seeking travelers with its relaxed pace and green vistas. Furthermore, Sterling is also considered one of the best places to live, and some visitors decide to stay. For example, Algonkian Regional Park is one of the best parks, offering over 830 acres of outdoor adventures and a golf course. Additionally, hikers will appreciate the vast amount of trails found in and around Sterling, such as the Potomac Heritage Scenic Trail, the Ira Gabrielson Trail, and the Washington & Old Dominion Trail. With a very ethnically diverse community and many activities to do, Sterling has something for everyone and makes for the perfect getaway.
Sandbridge
Adjacent to Virginia Beach, Sandbridge provides a perfect hiding spot to avoid crowds and enjoy sunbathing and swimming peacefully. With its stunning beach, Sandbridge lets guests breathe in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. Moreover, many travelers recognize Sandbridge for its relatively secluded position, resulting in a lower influx of visitors compared to Virginia Beach's resort strip, situated a few miles north. However, the Atlantic claimed several homes through the mid-1990s, but successful restoration endeavors have brought back Sandbridge's beach. Additionally, this small beach town is a fantastic place to enjoy Virginia's classic dishes. For example, Margie & Ray's Crabhouse and Restaurant consistently offers unique experiences thanks to its crab based specialties.
Charlottesville
Situated on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville possesses enchanting natural landscapes and rich cultural and artistic history. This town is where Thomas Jefferson once called home. Moreover, feel free to explore Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, an iconic residence that unveils the home place of one of the most esteemed presidents in American history. Furthermore, the Charlottesville area is graced with numerous rivers and lakes like the South Fork Rivanna River Reservoir, offering a perfect setting for peaceful aquatic activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and tubing. Additionally, you can discover numerous natural areas like Darden Towe Park, providing captivating landscapes, and an ideal setting for picnics, outdoor activities, or pure relaxation. Furthermore, the Meadowcreek Golf Course delights golfers with its exciting design.
Harrisonburg
Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg adapts perfectly to be a getaway for every traveler who wants to enjoy summer and relax away from crowds. Moreover, hikers will thrive here, with access to the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, and Shenandoah National Park, which all offer many paths to explore. Also, a great number of cyclists have attributed this town the IMBA Bronze Level mark of distinction. The city's vibrant downtown district is home to several shops and over 200 restaurants. For example, Billy Jack's Shack is a great place to stop for brunch with burgers and fries while feeling part of the family. Additionally, the city's enduring tradition of the International Festival embraces the vibrant diversity of this exceptionally inclusive community by showcasing global cuisine, music, and cultural experiences.
Colonial Beach
Situated at the northern tip of Virginia's Northern Neck, Colonial Beach stands out as one of the few remaining small seaport towns still existing along the banks of the Potomac River. Its sandy beaches and marinas along Monroe Bay attract water sports enthusiasts yearly. Furthermore, Colonial Beach allows you to enjoy water activities peacefully, such as sailing, canoeing, swimming, and fishing at the lake. Moreover, Colonial Beach is home to many historical places, such as Washington's Birthplace monument and Stratford Hall, the boyhood home of two Founding Fathers: Richard Henry Lee and Francis Lightfoot Lee. This often-overlooked small town can be the perfect hideout to avoid the typical summer influx of visitors.
Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a serene resort town located on the homonymous Chincoteague Island. Moreover, Chincoteague Bay, with its clear water that surrounds the island, provides every visitor with stunning views. Also, the nearby Assateague Beach offers white sand, crystal-clear water, and a place to relax, swim, and sunbathe. Furthermore, feel free to take a quiet stroll in Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, a 14,000-acre home to a wide variety of wildlife, such as peregrine falcons, horses, ponies, sika deer, waterfowls, and Atlantic horseshoe crabs. Additionally, Chincoteague has some interesting historical attractions, such as the Museum of Chincoteague Island, where you can learn more about this place's past. Besides, you can visit the iconic Assateague Light lighthouse, where the surrounding trees and sky form stunning vistas throughout the day. Ultimately, this town will appeal to animal lovers and travelers who seek peace and tranquility in nature.
Staunton
Situated in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a distinctive destination known for its magnificently preserved architecture. The beautifully restored buildings host over 100 unique shops and several BnBs like The Historic Berkeley Palace. Moreover, downtown Staunton is surrounded by five historic districts, where you can catch a play at the Blackfriars Playhouse. Also, feel free to visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Museum and Library. For nature lovers, Gypsy Hill Park is a great place to unwind and relax after a long day visiting this charming town. Additionally, when the sun sets, those who dare can explore the spooky Black Raven Paranormal ghost tour, which is not for the easily frightened. Staunton has something for anyone, from impressive architecture to museums and parks, it is a perfect hideaway to enjoy summer in peace.
Front Royal
Located seventy miles west of the nation's capital, Front Royal is a small mountain retreat in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. This destination boasts many attractions for everyone to spend some days exploring this enchanting small town. Moreover, hikers will enjoy hiking trails in the Shenandoah National Park, the Shenandoah River State Park, or the Appalachian Trail. Furthermore, the Shenandoah River is the perfect place for water activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, rafting, or paddleboarding. Also, feel free to venture underground in the Skyline Caverns and explore the fascinating rock formations. Additionally, Front Royal's historic downtown center offers plenty of shops and restaurants. For example, Soul Mountain Restaurant & Bar lets customers enjoy exquisite classic Virginia dishes in a colorful location. This serene town is a beautiful choice for those who want to avoid the vast crowds typical of Summer, and instead want to enjoy a peaceful vacation immersed in nature.
Conclusion
The charm of enjoying unspoiled beauty and engaging with authentic southern culture is a desire of many travelers. These destinations offer a breath of fresh air and a chance to immerse oneself in antebellum tranquility. Whether finding solace in secluded beach towns or retreating to remote mountain getaways, these destinations provide an escape into the serenity of Virginia. By seeking out these underrated destinations, travelers can create unique memories and find a genuine connection with their surroundings.
