Day Trips & Small Towns in Virginia
Ready to unplug from the daily routine and go on a day trip? You are in the right place! Virginia is packed with family-friendly day trips I explored since moving to the South. This guide has my favorites from my recent four week road trip - I hope you'll love them too.
Staunton - 1 hour 45 min from Richmond
This is one of my favorite towns in the Shenandoah Valley and one of the best day trips in Virginia. I think it's an underrated and off-the-beaten path stop which I love! Personally, Staunton's one of the most friendly small towns I’ve explored in Virginia, and I loved it on my day trip from Richmond.
After you park, first check out downtown Staunton, which is walkable and lovely. The brick sidewalks, colorful murals, and historic buildings kept me interested. There were plenty of spots to stop, look around, and snack.
I discovered a delicious local bakery near Beverley Street, where I shared oversized cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate!
A highlight for me was the Frontier Culture Museum just outside town. Walking through recreated historic farms gave me hands-on history and open-air setting.
Later, head to Gypsy Hill Park, which is an absolute win. The walking paths, and ducks by the pond made it easy to unwind.
What I loved best:
In the afternoon, I had ice cream downtown and sat outside watching the trains roll by—one of those unexpectedly magical moments.
Williamsburg - 50 min from Richmond
First off, your first reaction may be that, yikes, Williamsburg is too touristy, and you are right, it is. That said, if you bear with me and read through the end, I think I can convince you that it's an absolutely perfect road trip stop because it's so interactive. There are heaps of amazing things to do (and see) here!
Colonial Williamsburg was my first stop and I spend most of my day here. Walking along the streets felt like stepping into a dream and the history felt alive and vibrant here.
I loved seeing the costumed interpreters, which made it a cool and unusual way to learn, and for me it was the absolute best mix of fun and educational magic.
After that I walked around and grabbed lunch. You can head to Busch Gardens Williamsburg on the same day if you have lots of energy, but honestly I recommend a separate day trip (or spending the night!). Busch Gardens rides and European-style villages are exciting, so you really don't want to rush the experience.
Later on I slowed things down at Jamestown Settlement, which is close by and a spectacular spot that feels underrated compared to bigger attractions.
Seeing the ships and interactive exhibits was such a cool experience. I ended the day walking along Duke of Gloucester Street again, ice cream in hand. I also recommend checking out these unique beaches near Williamsburg for a relaxing day out.
Luray Caverns - 2 hours 20 min from Richmond
I planned one of the best weekend getaways in Virginia and started early driving toward Luray Caverns near Shenandoah National Park (less than a 2-hour day trip from D.C.!)
First thing I did was park and grab tickets. Next, walking into the cavern entrance was pure magic, it felt unusual and cool. I instantly thought my journey was worth it!
As I went deeper, the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites felt like an absolute best underground experience and instantly became one of my favorite vacation ideas.
The lights made everything more dramatic, and I kept thinking this place is underrated for a day trip.
The Great Stalacpipe Organ was next and honestly it was the coolest and most unique thing I’ve ever heard.
After exploring, I walked on the garden paths outside which felt relaxing and perfect for a break.
Lunch came next in nearby Luray town, which is such an amazing small town gem in the Shenandoah Valley.
I wandered the streets, found ice cream, and loved how this area felt welcoming and not crowded.
Later I visited nearby Hawksbill Greenway, a brilliant idea for unwinding.
McLean - 1 hour 45 min from Richmond
This is one of my favorite small towns to visit in Virginia.
First thing I did was visit Great Falls Park, which felt like an absolute best natural gem. Walking along the trails was an amazing experience for me, complete with refreshing waterfalls.
I was fascinated by the rocks and overlooks. I stopped at several viewpoints. After that I headed to the visitor center, which was interesting and easy for kids to enjoy.
Later I drove into town for lunch, finding an affordable café that became a quick favorite. Next I explored nearby Clemyjontri Park.
For me, being so close to DC makes McLean an easy and exciting small town escape. I ended the day with a short walk near the Potomac, my personal highlight.
