As someone who spent the first 20 years of my life in Virginia and returned 10 years later, I can tell you that there are endless places to explore in this state. My childhood was spent in the Blue Ridge Mountains, camping on Otter Peak and canoeing down the James River. My college years took me to Williamsburg, where history and higher education go hand in hand with waterfront views. I currently live in Charlottesville, a small city within driving distance of Shenandoah National Park and Virginia’s wine country.
“Virginia has everything you could want,” said George Hodson, CEO of Veritas Vineyards and Winery in Afton. “For me, it’s the natural resources – rivers, lakes, oceans and mountains – and the seasons that allow us to enjoy them.” Matilda Reuter-Ingle, owner of Middleburg Hospitality and general manager of Red Fox Inn & Tavern and Glenstone Gardens He feels the same way about Old Dominion’s appeal. It is an effort to preserve agricultural heritage, rural traditions and 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.
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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The James River, Virginia’s largest river, begins in the Appalachian Mountains and flows into the Chesapeake Bay. “It’s a great place to get out and play,” says Hodson, who recommends getting out and about in the water with the James River Runners in Scottsville.
Blue Ridge Parkway
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“If you want to enjoy a beautiful drive, [the] “The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a beautiful journey on its way to Shenandoah National Park,” says Reuter Engle. To start planning your drive, download the Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner app. This app is great if you’re not sure what to expect in each area or section of the parkway.
richmond
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Virginia’s capital city has something for everyone, from history buffs and art buffs to foodies and outdoor enthusiasts. But if you’re into drinks, Hodson recommends visiting Scott’s Addition, which he describes as an “adult playground.” Here, old factories and warehouses have been converted into bars, cider factories and distilleries.
Smith Mountain Lake
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You may have heard it described as the “Lake Tahoe of the East,” but Smith Mountain Lake definitely has its own personality and charm. The reservoir is the second largest body of water in the state, with 500 miles of shoreline and 24 islands, providing plenty of room for water activities like swimming, boating, fishing, and a variety of water sports.
Monticello Wine Trail
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Hodson calls the region he knows so well “a world-class wine region with so many great winery experiences within a 30-minute drive of Charlottesville.” The Monticello Wine Trail spans his 40 vineyards, each offering wine tasting and beautiful views of Virginia.
Historical Triangle
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Three points in the Historic Triangle, Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown, are perfect for an educational and beautiful weekend getaway. Along this route, also known as the Colonial Parkway, you’ll have the chance to visit historic Jamestown, the Jamestown Settlement, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield, and Yorktown’s Museum of the American Revolution.
Crozet
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“It’s still a quiet little town in Virginia,” Crozet said. [it’s] It’s on the rise,” says Hodson. Plus, it’s a great day trip from Charlottesville. When it comes to the ideal itinerary, Hodson can help: “Pick up some coffee and bagels at Prague Bakery…hike the Blue Hole from Sugar Hollow Reservoir, then head back to downtown Crozet for a sauna and cold dive at Reset Crozet.” Finally, he says, “Have dinner at the legendary Fur Downers.”
Middelburg
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Reuter Engle, whose family has lived in Middleburg for generations, may be biased, but she admits there’s plenty to do and see in this historic town every season. Her must-see list includes: “Middleburg’s traditional hunt parade at Christmas, which draws thousands each year; the Middleburg Film Festival in the fall; Historic Gardens Week in the spring; and equestrian activities galore in the fall and spring, including the Middleburg Spring Races, the Virginia Gold Cup and the Upperville Colt & Horse Show.”
lexington
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Lexington may be known to travelers for its connections to Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington & Lee University, but it also boasts one of the most interesting outdoor entertainment venues. Once an abandoned limestone quarry and kiln, the Lime Kiln Theater is a 675-minute walk to enjoy shows of bluegrass, folk, and other musical genres surrounded by trees, natural stone walls, and stars overhead. Welcoming guests. 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,” says Reuter Engle. She has a variety of activities available, including rafting, tubing, and kayaking, but she recommends heading to 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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“Just an hour from Washington, D.C., these two spots on either side of Paris, Virginia are perfect for hiking or walking and experiencing the state’s natural beauty,” explains Reuter-Engle. Masu. Sky Meadows State Park is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves are at their peak. While in the area, she recommends having lunch at the Ashby Inn and shopping for local produce at Hollin Farm.
bath county
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Like the city of Bath in the UK, Bath County, Virginia, is named for its natural healing waters, and you can experience that for yourself by booking the recently renovated Warm Springs Pool, part of the Omni Homestead Resort. Travelers interested in the more agricultural side of the county can choose to stay at Apple Horse Farm, a sustainable cattle and pig farm with separate cabins available for short-term rental.
Shenandoah National Park
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Reuter Engle said visitors can expect “picturesque hiking” in Shenandoah National Park, where 500 miles of trails lead hikers to waterfalls, beautiful scenery and remnants of pioneer history. One of the most popular paths is Old Rag, a 15.1-mile loop trail that’s labeled “difficult,” but if you can stand some rock scrambling, the views are worth the climb.
