If you’re looking for a great vacation spot, look no further than Virginia! This beautiful state has something for everyone, from beaches to mountains to bustling cities. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the top-rated tourist spots in VA.
Whether you’re looking for history, nature, or just some good old-fashioned fun, you’ll find it here! So pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of VA!
1. Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum that tells the story of America’s colonial past. This is a must-see for history buffs!
Williamsburg served as the capital of Virginia from 1705 to the end of the Revolutionary War, and the war’s final battle was fought nearby, making it a hotbed of the independence movement as well as one of the most prosperous and politically active colonial capitals.
This town includes more than 500 buildings from the 18th century and it is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the country.
There are only several places that can match Williamsburg’s ability to recreate the setting of the American Revolution, where original 18th-century structures are either still standing or have been faithfully reproduced on their original foundations.
Tourists can explore historic buildings, learn about the people who lived here, and even participate in hands-on activities. You can also stand where Patrick Henry delivered his stirring speech, walk the same streets as Thomas Jefferson, and eat the same seafood dinners that George Washington did.
2. Virginia Beach
If you’re looking for a beach vacation, Virginia Beach is the place to be. This popular spot is known for its boardwalk, which stretches for more than three miles.
Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy the views of the ocean, and stop at one of the many shops or restaurants. There’s also a section of the boardwalk that’s reserved for biking, rollerblading, and skateboarding.
In addition to the boardwalk, Virginia Beach also offers a number of other attractions, including an aquarium, a zoo, and several museums. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
And of course, you can’t forget about the beach itself! Virginia Beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun.
3. Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive
Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful place to see the fall foliage or go for a hike. The park spans nearly 200,000 acres and includes more than 500 miles of hiking trails. The Blue Ridge Mountains, which range in height from 2,000 to 4,000 feet, are protected by Shenandoah National Park.
Skyline Drive is a scenic route that runs for 105 miles through the park. Along the way, you’ll find 75 overlooks where you can stop and take in the stunning views including President Hoover’s summer mansion and the historic Cave Cemetery below Dark Hollow Falls.
Some of the park’s greatest attractions are the magnificent hiking paths. Spring and summer bring out the best in the park’s flowering trees and bushes, but October brings out the best in the park’s autumn colors.
4. Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400,000 men and women who have served in the US Armed Forces.
This cemetery is especially well-known as the site of President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite and eternal flame. Arlington National Cemetery is also the final resting place for many other notable figures, including civil rights leader Medgar Evers, astronaut Challenger crew members, and World War II veterans.
Visitors to Arlington National Cemetery can take a tour of the cemetery grounds or participate in a wreath-laying ceremony. There is also a museum on-site that contains exhibits about the history of the cemetery and the people who are buried here.
5. Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, George Washington’s house from 1754 until his death 45 years later, was a work in progress under Washington’s watchful eye, even when he was leading the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Today, Mount Vernon is a National Historic Landmark and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia.
Tourists can explore the mansion, which has been restored to its 18th-century appearance, as well as the outbuildings, including the stable, carriage house, and blacksmith shop. The grounds of Mount Vernon are also open to visitors—this includes gardens, a museum, and a working farm.
There is also an on-site educational center where visitors can learn about the lives of George and Martha Washington. And don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to pick up a souvenir!
6. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
There is something for everyone at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Whether you’re a fan of art history or just enjoy looking at beautiful things, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest museums in the United States. It has a collection of more than 33,000 works of art, spanning a wide range of cultures and historical periods. The museum’s collections include paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, and much more.
The Ludwig and Rosy Fischer Collection of German Expressionist Art includes paintings, woodcuts, etchings, and lithographs in a variety of media, with a focus on the Die Brücke artists. Works by African, African American, and African Diaspora artists are included in the increasing collection of works expressing African American experience and expression.
The museum also has an extensive collection of Asian art, with works from China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia. And don’t miss the Art Deco furniture in the American Wing!
7. Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is a popular tourist destination in Virginia. The caverns are home to a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations.
The caverns are also home to the “Great Stalacpipe Organ,” which is the world’s largest musical instrument. This instrument is made up of 37 stalactites that have been “tuned” to create musical notes.
Visitors to Luray Caverns can take a guided tour of the caverns, participate in a geology program, or go on a hike. There is also a museum on-site with exhibits about the history and geology of the caverns.
8. Monticello and Charlottesville
Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s estate, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia. The estate includes a house, grounds, and gardens that have been restored to their appearance during Jefferson’s lifetime.
Visitors to Monticello can take a tour of the house and grounds, attend educational programs, or explore the museum. The museum contains a variety of artifacts, including furniture, paintings, and letters written by Jefferson.
Charlottesville is a city located in central Virginia. It is home to the University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson. The university’s grounds are open to visitors, and the school’s architecture is definitely worth seeing.
The city of Charlottesville is also home to a number of historical sites and museums, including the Virginia Museum of History & Culture and the Charlottesville Pavilion. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and cafes to explore in Charlottesville.
9. Colonial National Historic Park
Colonial National Historic Park is a unit of the National Park Service that includes Jamestown Island, Yorktown Battlefield, and the Colonial Parkway. These sites are significant for their role in the American Revolution and the history of the United States.
Jamestown Island is home to a number of historical buildings, including the original Jamestown Settlement. Visitors to the island can take a tour of the settlement, attend historical reenactments, or go on a nature hike.
Yorktown Battlefield is the site of the final battle of the American Revolution. Visitors to the battlefield can take a self-guided tour, participate in ranger-led programs, or watch a movie about the battle.
The Colonial Parkway is a scenic road that connects Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. The parkway is a great place to take a drive, go for a walk or bike ride, or picnicking.
10. Busch Gardens
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a theme park that features rides, shows, and attractions. The park is divided into seven themed areas, each with its own unique offerings.
The park has roller coasters, water rides, animal encounters, and live entertainment. Visitors can also explore the park’s shops and restaurants. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a great place to spend a day with family or friends.
11. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is a museum of aviation and spaceflight located in Chantilly, Virginia. The center is part of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum.
This center has over 200 aircraft and spacecraft on display, including the Space Shuttle Discovery. Visitors can also see a variety of artifacts, including engines, tools, and equipment used by astronauts and pilots.
The Udvar-Hazy Center is also home to the IMAX Theater, which shows movies about aviation and spaceflight. The theater has a giant screen and state-of-the-art sound system.
12. Natural Bridge of Virginia
The Natural Bridge, which stands more than 215 feet tall and spans 90 feet, is one of America’s oldest tourist attractions and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was one of the two most popular attractions for European visitors in the 18th and 19th centuries, ranking alongside Niagara Falls.
It was constructed when a cavern through which the Cedar Creek flows collapsed. When a rock with George Washington’s initials and survey mark was unearthed in 1927, it gave validity to the claim that he surveyed the bridge for Lord Fairfax. For a while, Thomas Jefferson owned the land and built a log hut here as a getaway.
The Natural Bridge of Virginia is open to the public year-round. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the bridge, hike on the trails, or go horseback riding. There is also a gift shop and restaurant at the Natural Bridge of Virginia.
13. Richmond
Richmond is the capital of Virginia and it has a rich history dating back to the American Revolution.
The city played a pivotal role in the war, and many historic sites related to the conflict can still be seen today. These include Richmond National Battlefield Park, which contains more than 15 miles of hiking trails, and the American Civil War Museum, which tells the story of the war from both Union and Confederate perspectives.
Richmond is also home to a number of art galleries, museums, and theaters. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest art museums in the United States, while the Richmond Symphony and Richmond Ballet are two of the city’s leading performing arts organizations.
14. Chincoteague and Assateague Islands
Chincoteague and Assateague Islands are two barrier islands located off the coast of Virginia. They are known for their beautiful beaches, wildlife, and quaint towns.
The islands are home to a variety of animals, including ponies, deer, birds, and fish. Visitors can go horseback riding on the beach, fishing, bird watching, or kayaking. There are also a number of shops and restaurants on the islands.
Chincoteague and Assateague Islands are a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. They are also perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
15. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. It is one of the largest aquariums in the United States and is home to over 800 species of animals.
The aquarium has a variety of exhibits, including a tropical reef, an Atlantic kelp forest, and a touch tank where visitors can pet stingrays. The Marine Science Center also has a research lab and offers educational programs for all ages.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is open year-round and is a great place to learn about marine life. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean from the aquarium’s observation deck.
There are many great tourist attractions in Virginia. Whether you’re interested in history, the arts, or the outdoors, there’s something for everyone. So come and explore all that Virginia has to offer.
What are your favorite tourist spots in Virginia?
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