Having spent the first 20 years of my life in Virginia, then moved back 10 years later, I can attest to the countless places to visit in Virginia. I spent my childhood in the Blue Ridge Mountains, camping at Otter Mountain and canoeing on the James River. I moved to Williamsburg for college, where history and higher education go hand in hand with waterfront views. I now live in Charlottesville, a small city within driving distance of Shenandoah National Park and Virginia’s wine country.
“Virginia has everything you could want,” says George Hodson, CEO of Veritas Vineyards and Winery in Afton. “For me, it’s our natural resources: rivers, lakes, oceans, mountains and all four seasons to enjoy.” Matilda Reuter Engle, owner of Middleburg Hospitality and general manager of Red Fox Inn & Tavern and Glenstone Gardens, echoes the same sentiment about the Old Dominion’s appeal. “Virginians take great pride in our state’s agricultural heritage, rural traditions and connection to nature, which is reflected in our commitment to preserving our open spaces.”
Wherever you travel, be sure to experience the unparalleled natural beauty and the small towns, culture-rich cities and unforgettable scenery that define this state. Read on to discover the best places to visit in Virginia.
Here are the best places to visit in Virginia
Natural Bridge
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Visitors of all ages will love a trip to Natural Bridge. Located just south of Lexington, this site is home to Natural Bridge State Park and Natural Bridge Caverns. A National Historic Landmark, the former is known for its 200-foot-tall stone arches, while the latter allows visitors to descend more than 34 stories above ground to view stalactites, stalagmites and other subterranean wonders.
James River
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Virginia’s largest river, the James River, rises in the Appalachian Mountains and flows into the Chesapeake Bay. “It’s a great place to get outside,” says Hodson, who encourages people to get on the water in Scottsville with James River Runners.
Blue Ridge Parkway
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“If you’re looking for a scenic drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a beautiful journey on the way to Shenandoah National Park,” says Reuter Engle. When you start planning your road trip, be sure to download the Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner app. This app is extremely helpful if you’re not sure what to expect in each region or section of the parkway.
Richmond
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Virginia’s capital city has something for everyone, from history buffs and art lovers to foodies and outdoorsy types, but if you’re into drinks, Hodson recommends a visit to Scott’s Addition, which he describes as an “adult playground,” where old factories and warehouses have been converted into bars, cider factories and distilleries.
Smith Mountain Lake
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You may have heard the expression “Lake Tahoe of the East,” but Smith Mountain Lake has its own personality and charm. The reservoir is the second largest body of water in the state, with 500 miles (804 km) of shoreline and 24 islands, providing plenty of space for water activities, including swimming, boating, fishing and a variety of water sports.
Monticello Wine Trail
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Hodson calls the region he knows well “a world-class wine region with plenty of fantastic winery experiences within a 30-minute drive of Charlottesville.” The Monticello Wine Trail spans 40 vineyards, each offering wine tastings and beautiful Virginia scenery.
Historical Triangle
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The three sites of the Historic Triangle – Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown – are perfect for a weekend of learning and a beautiful getaway. Also known as the Colonial Parkway, along this route you can visit Historic Jamestown, the Jamestown Settlement, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield and the American Revolutionary War Museum at Yorktown.
Crozet
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“It’s still a quiet little town in Virginia,” Crozet said. [it’s] “It’s growing in popularity,” Hodson says. Plus, it’s the perfect day trip from Charlottesville. Hodson has the perfect itinerary: “Get coffee and bagels at Prague Bakery, hike from Sugar Hollow Reservoir to the Blue Hole, then head back to downtown Crozet for a sauna and cold bath at Reset Crozet.” Finally, “have dinner at the legendary Fur Downers,” Hodson says.
Middelburg
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Reuter Engle, a multi-generational resident of Middleburg, may be biased, but she admits there’s plenty to do and see in this historic town, no matter the season. Her must-see list includes “Middleburg’s traditional Christmas Hunting Parade, which draws thousands of people each year; the Middleburg Film Festival in the fall; Historic Garden Week in the spring; and fall and spring equestrian events, including the Middleburg Spring Races, the Virginia Gold Cup and the Upperville Colt and Horse Show.”
Lexington
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Travelers may know Lexington for its connections to Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington & Lee University, but the city also boasts some of the most interesting outdoor entertainment venues. Once an abandoned limestone quarry and kilns, the Lime Kiln Theatre welcomes 675 guests to enjoy shows featuring bluegrass, folk and other musical genres amid a setting of trees, natural stone walls and stars overhead. The 2024 season will be announced in March.
Shenandoah River
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“For water sports enthusiasts looking for an exhilarating experience, the Shenandoah River is a must-visit destination,” says Reuter Engle. While there are plenty of activities to choose from, including rafting, tubing and kayaking, she recommends heading to the Harpers Ferry Adventure Center for “both adventure and family-friendly options.”
Virginia Beach
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Virginia is home to some of the oldest mountains in the USA, but its seaside destinations, particularly Virginia Beach, are also worth a visit. “I grew up on the beach as a surfer, and I feel at home there,” says Hodson. The Bybee Creative District in particular is known for its “great coffee shops and restaurants,” and he suggests grabbing a drink or a snack at Three Ships Coffee and The Pink Dinghy, both located next door to each other.
Ashby Gap and Sky Meadows State Park
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“Located just an hour from Washington, DC, these two spots on either side of Paris, Virginia, are perfect for hiking and strolling to experience the natural beauty of our state,” explains Reuter Engle. Sky Meadows State Park is especially beautiful in the fall, when the leaves turn red. While you’re in the area, she recommends having lunch at the Ashby Inn and picking up local produce at Hollin Farm.
Bath County
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Like the city of Bath, England, Bath County, Virginia, is named for its naturally healing waters, and you can experience these benefits for yourself by booking a dip in the recently renovated Warm Springs Pool, which is part of the Omni Homestead Resort. Travelers interested in the county’s agricultural side can stay at Apple Horse Farm, a sustainable cattle and pig farm with separate cabins for short-term rental.
Book your stay at Omni Homestead Resort on Booking.com
Book your stay at the Omni Homestead Resort on agoda.com
Shenandoah National Park
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Shenandoah National Park offers “picturesque hiking,” according to Reuter Engle. 500 miles (804 km) of trails lead hikers to waterfalls, beautiful scenery, and remnants of pioneer history. One of the most popular trails is Old Rag, a 9.1-mile (14 km) loop trail rated “difficult.” But if you can handle some rock climbing, the views are well worth the climb.
George Hodson is CEO of Veritas Vineyard and Winery in Afton, Virginia.
Matilda Reuter Engle owns Middleburg Hospitality and is general manager of Red Fox Inn & Tavern and Glenstone Gardens.
Book your stay at The Red Fox Inn & Tavern on agoda.com
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(Feature Image Credit: Hal Chen/500px/Getty Images)
This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com
Related: Explore the Dirty Dancing Route in Roanoke, Virginia, USA
Notes:
The information in this article is accurate as of the publication date.
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