Best Places to Visit in Virginia
Learn about history, explore the Blue Ridge Mountains or relax on the beach in the beautiful state of Virginia.
Virginia is home to some of the most unique and meaningful destinations in the U.S., and honestly, they’ve become some of my favorite spots for a mix of history, charm, and natural beauty.
I love how Virginia offers the best blend of coastal escapes, mountain getaways, and cultural landmarks.
What makes Virginia truly unique to me is its variety: the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, the historic streets of Williamsburg, the stunning Shenandoah National Park, the vibrant energy of Richmond, and the peaceful beaches along the Atlantic coast. Each destination feels special in its own way.
So if you’re planning a trip, think about what excites you most: history, outdoor adventure, or coastal relaxation. For me, Virginia is one of the best and most unique states to explore for lasting memories.
Alexandria: Canvases & Quiet Inspiration
Alexandria, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., instantly won me over with its mix of history and small-town charm. I loved walking along the cobblestone streets of Old Town, where 18th- and 19th-century row houses stood alongside boutique shops, cozy cafés, and waterfront restaurants. It felt like stepping back in time while still enjoying all the cool modern touches of a vibrant community.
We found the waterfront to be the absolute best place to start exploring. I enjoyed strolling along the Potomac, watching boats glide by, and stopping to listen to live music near the piers. The Torpedo Factory Art Center was a spectacular surprise—wandering through studios and chatting with local artists gave the visit a joyful and creative spark.
What stood out to me most was Alexandria’s unique blend of history and accessibility. I thought it was especially cool that George Washington’s Mount Vernon was just down the road, while D.C.’s museums and monuments were only minutes away. Yet, Alexandria itself had enough character to keep us happily exploring all day, from historic churches to hidden courtyards.
My favorite moment was ending the evening at a riverfront restaurant, watching the city lights reflect on the water. For me, Alexandria is one of the best underrated gems in Northern Virginia—historic, scenic, and filled with that welcoming energy that makes every visit feel both special and memorable.
Williamsburg: Echoes Beneath the Lantern Light
Williamsburg, Virginia, has always felt like one of my favorite destinations for blending history with modern charm. Walking through Colonial Williamsburg, I loved how the cobblestone streets, historic taverns, and costumed interpreters brought the 18th century to life—it was like stepping into a living museum. Every corner carried that spectacular sense of history, yet the town also offered plenty of cool shops, cafés, and modern comforts to keep the experience joyful and well-rounded.
We found that Williamsburg was the absolute best place for exploring Virginia’s story while still having fun. I thought it was especially exciting to visit sites like the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, and the working tradespeople’s shops, where history felt hands-on and engaging. Beyond Colonial Williamsburg, we also enjoyed nearby attractions like Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, which added a playful, family-friendly balance to the trip.
What stood out most to me was how unique the atmosphere felt. One moment I was listening to fife and drum music echo through the streets, and the next I was enjoying dinner in a modern restaurant on Merchant’s Square. That seamless mix of past and present made Williamsburg feel like more than just a history lesson—it was a living, breathing place full of energy and discovery.
My favorite moment was taking an evening stroll through the historic district, lantern light flickering on the brick sidewalks, and feeling completely immersed in another era. For me, Williamsburg is a gem—rich in heritage, full of charm, and always leaving me with memories that feel timeless.
Fredericksburg: Brick Roads, Battlefields & Biscuits
Fredericksburg, Virginia, completely charmed me with its mix of deep history and small-town warmth. Located about halfway between Washington, D.C. and Richmond, it felt like the perfect stop for both learning and relaxing. I loved strolling through the historic downtown, where cobblestone streets, antique shops, and cozy cafés created a spectacularly welcoming atmosphere.
We found the absolute best way to experience Fredericksburg was to dive into its history. Walking the Fredericksburg Battlefield gave me a powerful sense of the Civil War’s impact, while visiting George Washington’s Ferry Farm and the Rising Sun Tavern brought colonial life vividly to the surface. I thought it was cool how so many sites were within a short drive or walk, making it easy to explore without rushing.
What stood out to me most was how joyful the balance felt between past and present. One moment I was stepping into a centuries-old home, and the next I was enjoying modern restaurants and breweries downtown. The mix of historic architecture with lively shops and local art gave Fredericksburg a unique character that felt both timeless and fresh.
My favorite moment was watching the sunset over the Rappahannock River after a day of exploring—it was peaceful, spectacular, and tied the whole visit together. For me, Fredericksburg is an underrated Virginia gem—historic, scenic, and filled with the kind of charm that makes every visit memorable.
Winchester: Apples, Architecture & Porch-Swing Pace
Winchester, Virginia, in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, immediately impressed me with its blend of history, culture, and mountain-town beauty. Just a short drive from the Blue Ridge, it felt like a cool mix of small-town friendliness and vibrant local life. I loved starting my visit at Old Town Winchester, where the pedestrian mall was lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings that gave the city a spectacular sense of place.
We found the absolute best way to dive into Winchester was through its history. Touring the Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters Museum and the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley gave us fascinating insights into the area’s past. I also thought it was unique how the city celebrated its musical roots—visiting the Patsy Cline Historic House was a joyful highlight that tied modern culture to local heritage.
What stood out most to me was the surrounding scenery. Driving just outside of town, the rolling hills and mountain views made every turn feel like a hidden gem. I loved how Winchester managed to be both a gateway to outdoor adventure and a destination in itself, with wineries, orchards, and seasonal festivals adding even more to the experience.
My favorite moment came in the evening, sitting outside at a downtown restaurant while the sun set over the valley. It felt spectacular to enjoy good food and music with such a historic backdrop. For me, Winchester is one of Virginia’s best weekend getaways—rich in history, full of energy, and surrounded by unforgettable natural beauty.
Norfolk: Mermaids, Makers & Waterfront Moments
Norfolk, Virginia, gave me the perfect mix of coastal energy, naval history, and creative spirit. Set right on the Chesapeake Bay, it felt like a city that balanced its maritime roots with a vibrant arts and culture scene. I loved walking along the downtown waterfront, where the views of the Elizabeth River were spectacular and the atmosphere was always lively with ships, ferries, and people enjoying the boardwalk.
We found plenty to explore, from visiting the Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus to enjoying the Chrysler Museum of Art. One of my favorite stops was the Mermaid Factory, where I got to paint and decorate my own ceramic mermaid—such a cool and joyful way to take home a piece of Norfolk’s personality. Seeing the colorful mermaid statues around the city afterward made it even more fun, like spotting hidden gems on every block.
What stood out to me most was Norfolk’s variety. I thought it was unique how in a single day you could stroll through historic neighborhoods, grab a coffee in a trendy café, shop in local boutiques, and then spend the evening at a waterside restaurant. The city also had a spectacular performing arts scene, with theaters and live music that added even more energy.
My favorite moment was sitting by the waterfront at sunset, watching the ships pass while the sky turned shades of orange and pink. For me, Norfolk is one of Virginia’s best coastal cities—creative, exciting, and filled with experiences that feel both modern and deeply tied to its maritime soul.
Harrisonburg: Valley Roots & A College Town Glow
Harrisonburg, Virginia, in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, gave me that perfect blend of college-town energy and mountain-town beauty. As the home of James Madison University, it had a lively, youthful vibe, but I also loved how the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains brought a spectacular sense of calm. Walking downtown, I found cool murals, local breweries, and a mix of shops and cafés that made the city feel vibrant and welcoming.
We found that the absolute best part of Harrisonburg was its connection to the outdoors. A short drive put us on trails in Shenandoah National Park or along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and I thought it was unique how easy it was to pair a day of hiking with an evening of live music or farm-to-table dining downtown. The city truly felt like a gateway to adventure while still offering plenty to do within its own streets.
What stood out to me most was the joyful balance between culture and community. I liked exploring the Virginia Quilt Museum, learning about the region’s heritage, and then grabbing coffee at a student-filled café nearby. Seasonal farmers’ markets and festivals added even more energy, giving Harrisonburg an underrated charm that went beyond the typical small city experience.
My favorite moment was sitting outside at a downtown brewery, sipping a local craft beer while the mountains glowed at sunset in the distance. For me, Harrisonburg is one of Virginia’s gems—lively, scenic, and filled with both outdoor adventure and community spirit.
Staunton: Shakespeare, Side Streets & Mountain Air
Staunton, Virginia, tucked into the Shenandoah Valley, struck me as one of the most unique small towns I’ve visited. Surrounded by rolling hills and mountain views, it felt both historic and artistic, with a downtown full of beautifully preserved architecture. I loved wandering the brick-lined streets, where every block seemed to hold a café, boutique, or gallery that made the town feel spectacularly alive.
We found that Staunton’s absolute best draw was its arts and culture scene. The American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse was a highlight—I thought it was so cool to watch a performance in a re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theater. Beyond that, live music, murals, and artisan shops gave the whole town a joyful, creative energy. It wasn’t just history on display, it was a community still thriving with expression.
What stood out most to me was Staunton’s connection to history. I liked exploring the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, which gave us fascinating insights into both his life and early 20th-century America. Pairing that with the town’s historic churches and neighborhoods made for a unique blend of education and charm. The local food scene, with farm-to-table restaurants and cozy wine bars, rounded out the experience perfectly.
My favorite moment was catching the sunset from a hilltop overlooking the town, the church spires glowing against the Shenandoah backdrop. For me, Staunton is one of Virginia’s underrated gems—historic, artistic, and filled with the kind of character that makes every visit memorable.
First Landing State Park: Chesapeake Calm & Ancient Forests
First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach has always felt like one of my favorite spots for combining history, nature, and coastal beauty. Just a short drive from Williamsburg, it’s the site where English colonists first landed in 1607, and walking the trails or shoreline gave me a spectacular sense of stepping into both history and wilderness at the same time. I loved that it wasn’t just a beach—it was a place full of stories and scenery.
We found the absolute best part of the park was how much variety it offered. The Chesapeake Bay beachfront was calm and inviting, perfect for swimming or just stretching out on the sand. At the same time, the 20 miles of trails through cypress swamps, dunes, and maritime forests gave us a whole different kind of adventure. I thought it was cool how in one visit we could hike, swim, and picnic without ever leaving the park.
What stood out most to me was the unique landscape. I liked wandering among the towering bald cypress trees with their knobby roots rising from the ground—it felt almost magical. The mix of bay, forest, and wetlands created a habitat that was both beautiful and alive with wildlife, from birds to turtles. It gave me a joyful sense of connection to Virginia’s natural side.
My favorite moment was catching the sunset from the beach, when the sky turned shades of pink and orange over the calm Chesapeake waters. For me, First Landing State Park is one of Virginia’s gems—historic, scenic, and the absolute best getaway for anyone who wants to experience both nature and the coast in one place.
Charlottesville: Hillside Grace & Monticello Light
Charlottesville, Virginia, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, always feels like a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together perfectly. I loved wandering through the historic Downtown Mall, one of the longest pedestrian malls in the country, where brick pathways, cafés, boutiques, and live music made every block feel spectacular. The mix of energy from the University of Virginia and the timeless charm of the surrounding countryside gave the city a unique character that I kept wanting to explore more deeply.
We found the absolute best part of Charlottesville was its rich history. Visiting Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s iconic home, was both inspiring and thought-provoking, and I thought it was cool how the site blended architecture, gardens, and stories of the past. The University of Virginia campus, also designed by Jefferson, carried that same blend of history and beauty—it was joyful just to stroll through the Lawn and see the Rotunda in person.
What stood out most to me was how Charlottesville balanced all that history with modern pleasures. Wineries and breweries dotted the countryside, farm-to-table restaurants filled the downtown, and art galleries showcased local creativity. I liked that I could spend a morning exploring heritage sites and an afternoon sipping wine while looking out at rolling vineyards—it felt like the perfect Virginia getaway.
My favorite moment was driving along Skyline Drive after a day in town, watching the Blue Ridge glow under a spectacular sunset. For me, Charlottesville is a gem—historic, scenic, and the absolute best blend of past and present in Virginia.
Virginia Beach: Soft Sand & Shoreline Stillness
We arrived just after sunrise and I think that was the best time. The beach was nearly empty, save for a few joggers and gulls lifting off the tide.
Virginia Beach has always felt like one of my favorite coastal getaways in Virginia, offering that perfect mix of oceanfront fun, family activities, and lively boardwalk energy. Stretching along the Atlantic, the main beach impressed me with its wide sandy shoreline and bustling atmosphere. I loved walking the famous three-mile boardwalk, where I could stop for ice cream, watch street performers, or just take in the spectacular ocean views.
We found that the absolute best part of Virginia Beach was how much variety it offered. Families enjoyed the calm waves and easy access to shops and restaurants, while surfers and adventurers sought out the breaks a little farther down the coast. I thought it was cool how one moment I could be lounging on the sand and the next exploring the Virginia Aquarium or setting off on a dolphin-watching tour—it felt like a joyful mix of relaxation and adventure.
What stood out most to me was how the city blended natural beauty with entertainment. Beyond the main strip, quieter stretches like Sandbridge Beach offered an underrated, peaceful escape, while nearby First Landing State Park gave us hiking trails through cypress swamps and maritime forests. That balance made Virginia Beach feel both exciting and restorative.
My favorite moment was sitting on the sand at sunset, watching the sky shift from gold to pink while the ocean breeze rolled in. For me, Virginia Beach is a gem—scenic, lively, and the absolute best place to soak in both the coastal beauty and the joyful spirit of Virginia’s shoreline.
Love Virginia Beach? Check out all my favorite beaches in Virginia.
Leaving Virginia, But Not Really
After exploring so many destinations across Virginia, I realized how much variety this state truly offers. From the lively oceanfront of Virginia Beach to the historic streets of Williamsburg, each place carried its own unique rhythm and charm. I loved that in one trip I could stroll cobblestone alleys in Alexandria, hike through the spectacular landscapes of First Landing State Park, and then relax with wine and mountain views in Charlottesville. Every corner of Virginia seemed to tell a story—whether through history, nature, or community spirit.
We found the absolute best part of traveling here was the balance between past and present. Civil War battlefields, presidential homes, and colonial towns gave us a deep connection to America’s history, while modern cities like Norfolk and Harrisonburg added creativity, culture, and youthful energy. I thought it was especially cool how small towns like Staunton, Winchester, and Fredericksburg blended heritage with vibrant downtown life, making them joyful stops that felt both historic and fresh.
What stood out most to me was Virginia’s ability to offer something for everyone—mountain trails, coastal beaches, wineries, museums, and lively festivals. My favorite moments were often the simplest: catching a sunset over the Blue Ridge, walking a quiet shoreline, or sharing a meal in a downtown square. For me, Virginia is a gem—scenic, diverse, and the absolute best reminder that travel can be both exciting and deeply meaningful, all within one unforgettable state.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
