Best Things to Do in Virginia
Virginia is a state where history, natural beauty, and culture come together to create unforgettable experiences. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, and from colonial towns to modern cities, Virginia offers an incredible variety of things to see and do.
I’ve explored historic sites that bring the past to life, enjoyed scenic drives with breathtaking views, and discovered vibrant towns filled with food, music, and art. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, or cultural exploration, Virginia has something for everyone. Here are the activities and destinations I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
Descending into Wonder at Shenandoah Caverns
We drove about 2 hours west from Washington, D.C. into the Shenandoah Valley, arriving at Shenandoah Caverns, which opened to the public in 1922.
Shenandoah Caverns in Virginia has to be one of the most amazing hidden gems I’ve ever explored, and it’s only a short drive from Shenandoah National Park near Mount Jackson, making it a perfect weekend getaway stop.
I loved the feeling of stepping underground into this spectacular dream world filled with glittering stalactites and unusual formations—it felt like magic around every corner.
What made it even more special for me was how affordable and family-friendly the tour was, so whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a joyful family trip, this place fits perfectly.
The coolest part was walking through rooms with names like “Rainbow Lake” and “Beyond the Veil,” each more unique and vibrant than the last—I couldn’t stop snapping photos!
We had such an exciting time discovering formations that looked like bacon strips, cascading waterfalls, and even draperies of stone that seemed to glow under the colorful lights.
It honestly felt like the absolute best underground adventure in Virginia, and one of the most underrated attractions I’ve come across in the state.
I also appreciated that the caverns stay a cool 56 degrees year-round, which made it a brilliant idea for escaping the summer heat.
Near Shenandoah Valley, this spot is easy to pair with wineries, hiking trails, or a romantic mountain cabin, making it one of my favorite stops in the region.
For me, Shenandoah Caverns was an exceptional experience—magical, unusual, and unforgettable, the kind of place that turns a regular trip into a spectacular memory.
Where I Stayed: I stayed at the Mimslyn Inn in Luray, an elegant 1930s-era hotel with mountain views and vintage charm.
Stepping Into Legacy at Mount Vernon
We drove about 30 minutes south from Washington, D.C. to Mount Vernon, the plantation home of George Washington.
Visiting George Washington’s Mount Vernon in Virginia was one of the most exceptional and meaningful experiences I’ve had, and it quickly became one of my favorite historic getaways.
Located just outside of Washington, D.C., this incredible estate sits along the Potomac River, and the views alone felt like stepping into a dream of early America.
I found the mansion itself to be both beautiful and unusual—it’s not just a house, it’s a living piece of history that lets you imagine what life was like in the 18th century.
Walking through the rooms, I loved seeing the original furnishings, vibrant details, and Washington’s personal touches, which made the experience so cool and surprisingly intimate.
The gardens were another gem—sprawling, colorful, and so peaceful that I could have spent hours wandering them, feeling that joyful connection to nature that Washington himself cherished.
One of the most amazing and underrated parts of my visit was the working farm area, where you can see demonstrations of historic trades and get a true sense of how the estate operated.
It was exciting to stand at Washington’s tomb, a place of deep respect and reflection, making the visit not just educational but also profoundly moving.
What I loved most was how Mount Vernon blended history, scenery, and culture into one unforgettable experience—an absolute best choice for a family trip, romantic outing, or even a solo adventure.
For me, Mount Vernon was more than just a tour—it was a spectacular journey into America’s past, and one of Virginia’s coolest historic treasures.
Where I Stayed: I checked into The Alexandrian in Old Town Alexandria, a boutique hotel full of character just a short drive away.
Wandering Through Petals at Norfolk Botanical Garden
We drove about 1.5 hours southeast from Richmond to Norfolk.
Visiting Norfolk Botanical Garden felt like stepping into the absolute best green escape—an amazing, vibrant oasis just outside Norfolk, Virginia.
We discovered more than 60 unique themed gardens across its expansive 175-acre layout, and that diversity made every turn feel like a new, cool adventure.
One of the most brilliant ideas was wandering through the internationally-recognized Hofheimer Camellia Garden, where over 1,400 varieties bloom in spectacular winter and spring colors—it was the kind of stunning sight I couldn’t get enough of.
We also couldn’t resist the crapemyrtle collection, widely considered the only one of its kind in North America—truly a unique, interesting botanical showcase that felt like a hidden treasure.
It was awesome to drift along the garden’s canals and Mirror Lake—water everywhere added such an unusual, magical dimension, especially when cruising on the boat tour.
The World of Wonders Children’s Garden was fabulous and family-friendly—three acres of playful, educational landscape that made it one of the most joyful spots for kids and families alike.
We couldn’t help but be impressed by the Bicentennial Rose Garden and the Virginia Native Plant Garden—every bloom, every rustle of native growth was part of that vibrant sensory joy.
Stepping into the WPA Memorial Garden reminded us of the estate’s rich history—established in 1938 by a dedicated WPA team—and added a profound respect to our strolling.
We found the Garden’s commitment to renewable energy, its status as a Virginia Historic Landmark, and its green initiatives quietly inspiring—sustainability and beauty in harmony.
Whether you're aiming for a romantic stroll, a colorful photo spree, or a joyful family outing, Norfolk Botanical Garden is truly one of Virginia’s most spectacular, underrated botanical gems.
Where I Stayed: I spent the night at The Founders Inn and Spa, where my room overlooked manicured grounds and a reflecting pond.
Fort Monroe
We drove about 1.5 hours southeast from Richmond to Fort Monroe, a massive stone fort completed in 1834 that guarded the Chesapeake Bay for nearly 200 years. We spent the night at the Magnolia House Inn, a historic 1880s Victorian B&B in nearby Hampton.
Exploring Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia, was one of the most exciting and unusual adventures I’ve had in the state—it’s a spectacular mix of history, scenery, and hidden charm.
Known as the largest stone fort ever built in the United States, this gem is surrounded by a sparkling moat and stunning Chesapeake Bay views that make every walk around the grounds feel magical.
I loved wandering through the old stone walls and discovering secret passageways, historic quarters, and cannons—it felt like stepping back into a vibrant piece of American history.
What fascinated me most was that Fort Monroe is where enslaved people first found freedom during the Civil War, and standing at the Emancipation Oak nearby was a powerful, meaningful moment that made this place unforgettable.
We also enjoyed the museum inside the fort, which told the fort’s story from the 1600s to its role as “Freedom’s Fortress”—it was both educational and inspiring.
The beaches here were an absolute best surprise—soft sand, calm water, and plenty of space to relax or enjoy a romantic sunset stroll.
One of my favorite things was how affordable and accessible the site was—you can tour much of it for free, making it a brilliant idea for a family outing or a weekend getaway.
Between the rich history, the cool architecture, and the joyful waterfront atmosphere, Fort Monroe felt like one of Virginia’s most underrated treasures.
For me, this spot perfectly blended excitement, reflection, and beauty—it’s not just a fort, it’s an exceptional experience.
Finding Quiet at the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
We drove about 2 hours west from Richmond to Harrisonburg, home to James Madison University.
Discovering the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum in Harrisonburg, Virginia, was such a joyful and refreshing experience—it felt like stepping into one of the most underrated natural gems in the Shenandoah Valley.
Tucked right on the campus of James Madison University, this vibrant woodland sanctuary gave me a sense of peace and wonder the moment I arrived.
I loved wandering the winding trails that meander through wildflower meadows, wetlands, and towering native trees—it felt magical, almost like walking through a living dream.
One of my favorite spots was the daffodil garden in spring, where thousands of blooms created a spectacular display that made me stop and just soak in the beauty.
The arboretum’s focus on native plants was both interesting and inspiring—it’s such a cool, unusual way to connect with Virginia’s natural heritage up close.
We found quiet benches tucked into hidden corners, perfect for a romantic stroll or simply taking time to reflect, which made it feel like a secret escape from the city.
I also enjoyed the butterfly garden, where vibrant colors and delicate wings filled the air, turning an ordinary walk into an extraordinary, joyful moment.
What impressed me most was how accessible and affordable it was—completely free to visit, making it the absolute best idea for a family outing, student break, or weekend getaway.
For me, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum was more than just a garden—it was an exceptional experience of tranquility, beauty, and connection with nature.
Walking in the Footsteps of a Founder at Monticello
We drove about 1 hour west from Richmond to Charlottesville.
Visiting Monticello near Charlottesville, Virginia, was one of the most spectacular and meaningful experiences I’ve had—it’s not just a house, it’s a living piece of history that feels both grand and deeply personal.
Designed by Thomas Jefferson himself, this hilltop estate offered me the coolest mix of architecture, innovation, and breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain views—it felt like stepping into a dream.
I loved walking through the mansion’s vibrant rooms filled with Jefferson’s books, maps, and unusual inventions—it was so interesting to see how brilliant and forward-thinking he truly was.
The gardens were another absolute best highlight—lush, colorful, and filled with both flowers and vegetables, they showed off Jefferson’s passion for nature and science in a joyful, living way.
We also wandered Mulberry Row, once home to enslaved workers, which gave the visit a powerful, reflective depth and reminded me of the complex and difficult history tied to this beautiful place.
One of my favorite moments was standing on the mountaintop terrace, gazing out over the rolling Virginia hills—it was both romantic and inspiring, the kind of view I’ll never forget.
The museum and visitor center added even more context, with cool exhibits and family-friendly activities that made the story of Monticello come alive.
What made it even better was how easy it was to pair a visit here with nearby wineries or a Charlottesville weekend getaway.
For me, Monticello was the perfect blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty—an amazing, underrated gem that’s truly one of Virginia’s absolute best attractions.
A Day at Colonial Williamsburg
We drove about 1 hour east from Richmond to Colonial Williamsburg, the largest living-history museum in the U.S. Spread across 301 acres, it recreates 18th-century Virginia with more than 80 original buildings and hundreds of reconstructed homes, shops, and taverns. We spent the night at the Williamsburg Inn, a 1937 landmark where colonial elegance meets luxury.
Exploring Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia was like stepping straight into a living history dream—it’s one of the absolute best immersive experiences I’ve ever had.
We wandered cobblestone streets lined with restored 18th-century buildings, and it felt magical to see costumed interpreters bringing the past to life with stories, demonstrations, and vibrant reenactments.
I loved watching blacksmiths hammer glowing iron, bakers pulling loaves from wood-fired ovens, and musicians filling the air with joyful colonial tunes—it was such a cool and unusual way to learn history.
One of my favorite parts was visiting the Governor’s Palace, with its grand halls, gleaming chandeliers, and walls lined with weaponry—it was spectacular and gave me chills.
The courthouses, taverns, and gardens added even more layers, turning every stroll into an exciting discovery of hidden gems and stories.
We also enjoyed the authentic dining experiences, where meals felt like stepping back in time, yet were still surprisingly affordable and fun for both family and romantic getaways.
Standing in the middle of Duke of Gloucester Street, I couldn’t help but think this was one of the most underrated and exceptional attractions in Virginia—both educational and entertaining.
It was brilliant to see kids laughing in the Children’s Discovery Area while couples enjoyed carriage rides, proving it’s a destination that truly has something for everyone.
For me, Colonial Williamsburg was more than a museum—it was a spectacular, joyful journey through history that felt alive, inspiring, and unforgettable.
Conclusion
After exploring so many of Virginia’s treasures I realized this state is overflowing with hidden gems and absolute best experiences.
Every stop felt unique, whether it was wandering through unusual underground formations, strolling romantic gardens, or stepping back in time at spectacular historic sites.
What I loved most was how affordable, joyful, and family-friendly many of these places were, yet they also offered plenty of opportunities for romantic getaways and inspiring solo adventures.
Virginia blends history, nature, and culture in a way that feels both vibrant and unforgettable, turning every weekend trip into something magical.
For me, the coolest part is that no matter where you go—whether it’s along the coast, in the mountains, or through charming towns—you’ll always find an exceptional mix of beauty, history, and adventure waiting to be discovered.
If you’re searching for your next dream getaway, Virginia is hands-down one of the most exciting and underrated destinations you could choose.
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.
