30 Things to Do in Virginia
Virginia unfolds with a captivating blend of American history, stunning natural landscapes from mountains to coast, and vibrant modern cities. This state offers a deep dive into the nation’s past alongside abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure and cultural exploration; uncovering its beauty often includes finding wonderful free things to do in Virginia, like hiking scenic mountain trails or exploring charming historic towns. From the shores of the Atlantic to the peaks of the Blue Ridge, Virginia promises diverse and memorable experiences.
Prepare to journey through pivotal historical sites, scenic byways, beautiful beaches, and lively urban centers. This guide highlights 30 distinct ways to experience the best of the Old Dominion, showcasing its unique character and attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or foodie, you’ll find plenty to explore in this remarkable state.
Historic Triangle & Colonial Roots
Colonial Williamsburg: Step back into the 18th century in this immersive living-history museum where costumed interpreters recreate colonial life. Explore historic buildings, watch craft demonstrations, and experience the atmosphere of revolutionary times.
Historic Jamestowne: Explore the original site of the first permanent English settlement in North America, featuring ongoing archaeological digs and museum exhibits. Walk the grounds where Captain John Smith and Pocahontas once lived for a direct connection to America’s beginnings.
Yorktown Battlefield: Visit the site where the decisive battle of the American Revolutionary War was fought, leading to American independence. Drive the battlefield tour roads and visit the museum to understand this pivotal historic event.
Jamestown Settlement: Experience history through gallery exhibits and outdoor re-creations of a Powhatan Indian village, the settlers’ fort, and replicas of the three ships. This living-history museum provides an interactive look at early colonial encounters.
Monticello: Tour the magnificent mountaintop home and plantation of Thomas Jefferson near Charlottesville, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the innovative architecture and complex history of the estate, including the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
Mount Vernon: Visit the beloved plantation home of George Washington overlooking the Potomac River near Alexandria. Tour the mansion, explore the gardens, museum, and learn about Washington’s life as a farmer, general, and president.
Civil War Trails & Sites
Manassas National Battlefield Park: Walk the grounds where two major Civil War battles were fought, learning about the conflict’s early stages. The visitor center provides context, and driving tours offer insights into the battlefield landscape.
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park: Explore four major Civil War battlefields and historic structures within this park. Visit sites like Chatham Manor and the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center to understand the war’s impact on the region.
Richmond National Battlefield Park: Discover Civil War sites scattered around the former Confederate capital, including battlefields and the Chimborazo Medical Museum. Explore the history of the campaigns to capture Richmond.
Appomattox Court House National Historical Park: Visit the village where Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War. Explore the restored buildings for a poignant look at the war’s conclusion.
Mountain Majesty & Scenic Drives
Shenandoah National Park & Skyline Drive: Drive the scenic Skyline Drive along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stopping at numerous overlooks for breathtaking valley views. Hike sections of the Appalachian Trail or explore waterfalls like Dark Hollow Falls within the park’s natural beauty.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Continue south from Skyline Drive onto this renowned scenic highway offering stunning mountain vistas, hiking opportunities, and access to charming Appalachian towns. Allow plenty of time for stops along this leisurely, beautiful drive.
Luray Caverns: Explore the largest caverns in the eastern United States, featuring stunning calcite formations like stalactites and stalagmites. Don’t miss hearing the unique sounds of the Great Stalacpipe Organ.
Natural Bridge State Park: Marvel at the massive natural limestone arch towering over Cedar Creek, once owned by Thomas Jefferson. Walk the trails beneath the bridge and visit the Monacan Indian Village for geological and cultural insights.
Hiking McAfee Knob: Take on one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail near Roanoke for incredible panoramic views. This popular, moderately strenuous hike rewards trekkers with unforgettable vistas (plan ahead, parking is limited).
Coastal Fun & Beaches
Virginia Beach Boardwalk: Stroll, bike, or skate along the lively three-mile oceanfront boardwalk lined with hotels, restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Enjoy the classic beach town atmosphere and the iconic King Neptune statue.
First Landing State Park: Explore the site where English colonists first landed in 1607, now a beautiful park offering hiking trails through cypress swamps, beaches on the Chesapeake Bay, and camping. Discover diverse ecosystems where history meets nature.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge & Assateague Island: Visit the refuge famous for the wild Chincoteague ponies that roam the island’s beaches and marshes. Enjoy bird watching, beachcombing, and witness the annual pony swim event (July) for a unique wildlife experience.
Sandbridge Beach: Relax on the quieter, more secluded beaches south of the main Virginia Beach resort area. Rent a beach house and enjoy a more laid-back coastal escape.
Cape Charles Beach: Enjoy the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay at this charming small town beach on the Eastern Shore. It’s perfect for families seeking gentle waves and a relaxed atmosphere.
Vibrant Cities & Culture
Old Town Alexandria: Wander the charming cobblestone streets of George Washington’s historic hometown near Washington D.C. Explore unique boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and enjoy the historic waterfront.
Richmond’s Museum District: Visit world-class institutions like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. Stroll through the surrounding Fan District known for its beautiful architecture.
Carytown Exploration (Richmond): Discover the unique shops, restaurants, and the historic Byrd Theatre in Richmond’s “Mile of Style.” It’s a vibrant neighborhood perfect for browsing and dining.
Norfolk Waterfront & Nauticus: Explore the downtown waterfront, visit the Nauticus maritime museum featuring the Battleship Wisconsin, or take a harbor cruise. Discover Norfolk’s rich naval history and maritime culture.
Arlington National Cemetery: Pay respects at the nation’s premier military cemetery located across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for a solemn, moving experience.
Unique Virginia Stops
Virginia Creeper Trail: Bike or hike this scenic 34-mile rail trail stretching through the mountains and countryside of southwestern Virginia. Enjoy beautiful trestle bridges and gentle grades, especially popular for downhill bike rides arranged with local outfitters.
Montpelier: Tour the lifelong home of President James Madison and Dolley Madison near Orange. Explore the mansion, gardens, and exhibits focused on Madison’s role as the “Father of the Constitution” and the lives of the enslaved community.
Booker T. Washington National Monument: Visit the birthplace and explore the former plantation where the influential African American educator and orator was born into slavery. Learn about his life and legacy through exhibits and historic grounds.
Breaks Interstate Park: Discover the “Grand Canyon of the South,” a massive gorge carved by the Russell Fork River on the Virginia-Kentucky border. Enjoy stunning overlooks, hiking trails, and whitewater rafting opportunities in this dramatic landscape.
Virginia’s Wine Regions: Explore one of the state’s numerous wine trails, particularly known for Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Visit wineries for tastings and enjoy the scenic vineyard settings throughout the Commonwealth.
