Visit Virginia

As one of the 13 original colonies, history is everywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia. "The birthplace of a nation" has military memorials like Arlington National Cemetery and historic homes like Mount Vernon-- George Washington's 18th century estate. 

"Virginia is for lovers" too with countless beautiful and romantic getaways. With over 200 vineyards and wineries, thousands of miles of shoreline, and stunning national parks like the Shenandoah Valley, lovers and nature seekers alike will have plenty to see and do.

Best Places to Visit in Virginia

From historical sites to beaches to nature preserves, Virginia has much to offer. It is a popular tourist destination in the United States for both locals and international travelers.  

Since Virginia borders Washington D.C., it is a short and quick day trip to our nation's capital. Virginia also borders 5 other states-- Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucmy, Tennessee, and North Carolina, which make for fun road trips.

Virginia Beach

This resort city on Chesapeake Bay features a 300-foot wide beach with a three-mile long concrete boardwalk that is open year-round. From relaxing at one of the luxury oceanfront hotels to whale watching or dolphin watching, this oceanfront resort town has plenty to offer. 

Oceanfront hotels: There are many oceanfront hotels to choose from that range from budget to luxury, modest B&B's to large resorts.

Boardwalk: The 28-foot wide boardwalk stretches from 2nd to 40th Street and is perfect for biking, strolling, rollerblading, or walking past the dozens of shops, restaurants, and vendors.

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: Home to thousands of mammals, fish, birds, and reptiles, the Virginia Aquarium represents over 700 species.

Amusement Parks: There is no shortage of amusement parks in Virginia Beach. Atlantic Fun Park features 16 rides, a go-kart track, and a ferris wheel. Motor World has a go-cart racetrack and paintball. Ocean Breeze Waterpark is an island-themed park with 30 rides, slides, and attractions.

Nightlife: With bars, breweries, and comedy clubs, Virginia Beach is teeming with nightlife. The Virginia Beach beer trail showcases the area's craft beer scene. The Funny Bone Comedy Club offers live performances and a dinner menu.

Cities in Virginia

Richmond: As one of the oldest major cities in the United States that is also home to new and creative young residents, there is the perfect mix of old and new in Virginia's capital city. Take a stroll along Cary Street, which is lined with local businesses like the stationary shop Merrymaker Paper Company and the toy shop World of Mirth. Explore the many museums like the Museum of the Confederacy, Science Museum of Virginia, or Edgar Allen Poe Museum.

Arlington: Located in Northern Virginia, Arlington sits on the border of Washington D.C. on the other side of the Potomac River. Because of its close proximity to our nation's capital, Arlington is home to many historically and politically significant government buildings, landmarks, and small towns, including:

McLean

Alexandria

Fairfax

Colonial Williamsburg

Fredericksburg 

Roanoke

Norfolk

Mount Vernon

Virginia State and National Parks

Virginia may be most well-known for its history, but it is also home to diverse natural landscapes that are beautiful to visit all year round. Virginia’s state and national parks include:

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

Assateague Island National Seashore

Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

Blue Ridge Parkway

Booker T. Washington National Monument

Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park

Colonial National Historical Park

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Fort Monroe National Monument

Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park

George Washington Birthplace National Monument

George Washington Memorial Parkway

Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site

Manassas National Battlefield Park

Petersburg National Battlefield Park

Prince William Forest Park

Richmond National Battlefield Park

Shenandoah National Park

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts

Popular Tourist Attractions

Charlottesville: Home to Monticello, the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson, and to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is worth a visit.

Jamestown: This historic town includes the Jamestown Settlement, a living-history museum with re-creations of a fort from 1610 and a Powhatan Indian village.

Yorktown: Located next to Jamestown, this historically significant town served as a major port to supply northern and southern towns during the American Civil War.