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Top 19 Places to Visit in Virginia

  1. The Shenandoah National Park: Get lost in over 200,000 acres of breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains! This national park is known for its epic hiking trails, stunning views, and wildlife. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and birds of prey!
  2. Virginia Beach: Who doesn’t love a good day at the beach? With 35 miles of shoreline, Virginia Beach is a haven for swimming, surfing, and fishing. Take a stroll down the three-mile-long boardwalk and enjoy the shops, restaurants, and attractions.
  3. Williamsburg: Take a step back in time and experience life during the colonial period. Williamsburg is home to Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum, where visitors can learn about the past through interactive exhibits and reenactments. Don’t forget to check out the downtown area for shopping, dining, and cultural events.
  4. Richmond: Get ready for a culture-filled adventure! This state capital has a rich history and is home to several museums, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Historical Society. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, head to the James River for hiking and biking.
  5. Chincoteague Island: Wild ponies, anyone? This island is known for its beaches, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge to see a variety of wildlife, including the famous wild ponies. Don’t forget to try your hand at boating, fishing, or other fun outdoor activities.
  6. The Monticello: Jolly good show! Take a gander at the grand home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the U.S. Stroll through the delightful gardens and discover the man’s fascinating life and legacy.
  7. Mount Vernon: Cheerio, chaps! Hop on over to the previous abode of George Washington, the first president of the U.S. Tour the big house and grounds, which include a farm that still works today and splendid gardens.
  8. The Virginia State Capitol: My word, what a grand building! Feast your eyes on the magnificent architecture of this historic structure. Take a guided tour and bask in the glory of the rotunda, which was modeled after the Pantheon in Rome.
  9. The Jamestown Settlement: Pip pip, cheerio! Dive into life as a settler at this living history museum. Learn all about the first permanent English settlement in America, and get your hands dirty with interactive exhibits and live demonstrations. Jolly good fun!
  10. The Yorktown Battlefield – Step back in time and experience the Revolutionary War at this historic park. But it’s not just history – take a scenic driving tour, hit the walking and biking trails, and dive into interactive exhibits at the visitor center.
  11. The Natural Bridge – Take in the breathtaking natural wonder that Thomas Jefferson once owned. At the park, discover the butterfly exhibit, tour the caverns, and hike the trails.
  12. The Luray Caverns – Venture deep into the earth and marvel at the incredible rock formations, including the unique “Great Stalacpipe Organ,” which produces music using stalactites. And don’t miss the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum on site.
  13. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center – Immerse yourself in the world of the ocean with over 800,000 gallons of exhibits, including a shark tank, a touch tank, and sea turtles. Catch a boat tour to witness wild dolphins up close.
  14. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts – Admire the beauty and culture of art from around the world. In addition to the permanent collection, catch one of the many traveling exhibitions or special events like concerts and lectures.
  15. Arlington National Cemetery – Pay respects to over 400,000 veterans and their families, including some of the most iconic American figures like John F. Kennedy and Thurgood Marshall. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
  16. The Norfolk Botanical Garden – Delight in the natural beauty of over 40 themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, rose garden, and butterfly garden. Hop on a tram tour or boat tour through the gardens.
  17. The Science Museum of Virginia – Engage with interactive exhibits on topics like space, electricity, and the human body. Check out the dome theater for planetarium shows or head to the rooftop observatory for stargazing.
  18. The Virginia Living Museum – Come face-to-face with live animals and explore indoor and outdoor exhibits on the state’s geology, ecology, and maritime history. Experience a planetarium show or take a nature walk.
  19. The Appomattox Court House National Historical Park – Relive the site where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War. See the McLean House where the surrender took place and the restored village of Appomattox Court House. Discover history and feel the weight of this momentous event.