Virginia Day Trips
Virginia is a state filled with history, natural beauty, and coastal charm, making it the perfect place for memorable day trips. Having explored the region, I’ve found that Virginia offers everything from scenic mountain drives and historic towns to relaxing beaches and vibrant cities, all within easy reach for a quick getaway.
I discovered charming small towns rich with culture, peaceful trails that wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains, and coastal spots where you can enjoy the sun and sea. From family-friendly adventures to romantic escapes and outdoor activities, Virginia has no shortage of incredible destinations for a perfect day trip. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Leesburg: Bricks, Books & Blue Ridge Breezes
Leesburg, Virginia, just about an hour northwest of Washington, D.C., makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. Nestled in Loudoun County, it feels like a small-town retreat yet still offers plenty of things to see and do.
When I first wandered through downtown Leesburg, I immediately loved the brick-lined streets, boutique shops, and inviting cafés. We spent time popping into antique stores, and I thought it was an amazing way to slow down and enjoy a slower pace without ever feeling bored.
I especially enjoyed Morven Park, which is a sprawling estate and museum right outside the historic core. Walking through the gardens felt like stepping into a dream, and the equestrian center added such a unique touch that made the visit even more special. For me, it was one of those experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying some local wine. Leesburg sits at the gateway to Virginia wine country, so visiting a nearby vineyard was a brilliant idea. Sitting on a patio with a glass of crisp white wine, looking out over the rolling hills, was a memory that I still think of whenever I crave a short and relaxing escape.
Just a short drive from the bustle of the city, Leesburg offered both history and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away.
2. Staunton: Storybook Streets & Stage Lights for All Ages
Staunton, Virginia, tucked in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. Surrounded by rolling hills and just off I-81, it feels like a small-town retreat yet still offers plenty of things to see and do.
When I first wandered through downtown Staunton, I immediately loved the brick-lined streets, boutique shops, and inviting cafés. We spent time popping into antique stores, and I thought it was an amazing way to slow down and enjoy a slower pace without ever feeling bored.
I especially enjoyed the gardens and historic grounds at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, which sits right in the heart of town. Walking through the exhibits felt like stepping into a dream, and the preserved architecture added such a unique touch that made the visit even more special. For me, it was one of those experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without exploring Staunton’s arts scene. The American Shakespeare Center was a brilliant idea for an afternoon performance, and watching a play in their intimate Blackfriars Playhouse setting felt unforgettable. Sitting in the historic theater, surrounded by enthusiastic energy, was a memory that I still think of whenever I crave a short and inspiring escape.
Just a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Staunton offered both history and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away. For a quick and affordable getaway, it truly captured everything I look for in a Virginia day trip.
3. Rail trails, antiques, and porch-front ease in Farmville
Farmville, Virginia, right in the heart of Prince Edward County, makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. Surrounded by rolling countryside and just about an hour from Richmond, it feels like a small-town retreat yet still offers plenty of things to see and do.
When I first wandered through downtown Farmville, I immediately loved the brick sidewalks, boutique shops, and inviting cafés. We spent time browsing the famous Green Front Furniture stores, and I thought it was an amazing way to slow down and enjoy a slower pace without ever feeling bored.
I especially enjoyed High Bridge Trail State Park, which stretches right through town on a converted rail line. Walking across the historic High Bridge felt like stepping into a dream, with sweeping views over the Appomattox River Valley that made the visit even more special. For me, it was one of those experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without exploring the local dining scene. Stopping in at a cozy café for coffee and later enjoying Southern-inspired comfort food was a brilliant idea that rounded out the day perfectly. Sitting outside with locals, surrounded by a laid-back atmosphere, was a memory I still think of whenever I crave a short and relaxing escape.
Just a short drive from Richmond or Lynchburg, Farmville offered both history and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away.
4. Stone streets and stories that linger in Lexington
Lexington, Virginia, nestled in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains and just a short drive from I-81, it feels like a small-town retreat yet still offers plenty of things to see and do.
When I first wandered through downtown Lexington, I immediately loved the brick sidewalks, historic storefronts, and inviting cafés. We spent time exploring antique shops and local boutiques, and I thought it was an amazing way to slow down and enjoy a charming, walkable town.
I especially enjoyed visiting Washington and Lee University’s campus, which is filled with history and beautiful architecture. Walking among the historic buildings felt like stepping into a dream, and the connection to early American history added such a unique touch that made the visit even more special. For me, it was one of those experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without exploring Virginia Military Institute and its museum, which was a brilliant idea. Learning about the area’s military heritage while walking through such a striking campus created a lasting impression. Sitting later at a local brewery, sipping a craft beer and looking out at the mountains, was a memory I still think of whenever I crave a short and inspiring escape.
Just a short drive from Roanoke or Staunton, Lexington offered both history and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away.
5. Roanoke: Trains, Trails & Great Food
Roanoke, Virginia, tucked into the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. Known as the “Star City of the South,” it’s surrounded by scenic views yet still offers plenty of things to see and do right in town.
When I first wandered through downtown Roanoke, I immediately loved the blend of history and modern energy. We spent time exploring the City Market, browsing local vendors and unique shops, and I thought it was an amazing way to soak up the area’s culture without ever feeling rushed.
I especially enjoyed riding up to the Mill Mountain Star and overlook, which felt like stepping into a dream. Gazing out over the valley with the mountains stretching endlessly beyond was a unique moment that made the visit even more special. For me, it was one of those experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without exploring the Taubman Museum of Art. Its striking architecture and impressive exhibits were a brilliant idea for an afternoon stop. Later, sitting in a cozy downtown restaurant with Southern-inspired cuisine, I felt like the day had come together perfectly—an inspiring mix of nature, culture, and flavor.
Just a short drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or from nearby Salem, Roanoke offered both outdoor adventure and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away.
6. Salt air, ocean joy, and the soundtrack of waves in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, Virginia, set right where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Chesapeake Bay, makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. With miles of sandy shoreline and a lively boardwalk, it feels like both a bustling resort town and a coastal retreat all in one.
When I first walked along the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk, I immediately loved the ocean views, bike rentals, and inviting cafés lining the stretch. We spent time listening to live music and watching street performers, and I thought it was an amazing way to soak up the atmosphere without ever feeling rushed.
I especially enjoyed visiting First Landing State Park, which felt like stepping into a dream. The shaded trails, coastal marshes, and calm beaches offered a unique mix of history and nature that made the day even more memorable. For me, it was one of those experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without stopping by the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. Exploring the exhibits and then heading out on a dolphin-watching boat tour was a brilliant idea. Seeing the dolphins jump beside us was a memory I still think of whenever I crave a short and exciting coastal escape.
What made the day even better was how accessible it was. Just a short drive from Norfolk, Virginia Beach offered both fun and relaxation with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away.
7. Porch shops and Potomac peace in Occoquan
Occoquan, Virginia, a charming riverside town just 25 miles south of Washington, D.C., makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. Tucked along the Occoquan River, it feels like a quiet retreat yet still offers plenty of things to see and do in a small, walkable setting.
When I first strolled through historic Occoquan, I immediately loved the cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and inviting cafés. We spent time exploring local art galleries and antique stores, and I thought it was an amazing way to slow down and soak up the town’s warm character.
I especially enjoyed taking a riverside walk in Mamie Davis Park, which felt like stepping into a dream. Watching the water shimmer while boats drifted by added such a unique charm that made the visit even more special. For me, it was one of those peaceful experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without enjoying a meal by the water. Dining on a patio overlooking the river was a brilliant idea, and the mix of fresh food and relaxing views created a memory I still think of whenever I crave a short and romantic escape.
Just a quick drive from Alexandria or Fairfax, Occoquan offered both history and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away.
8. Waynesboro: River Walks, Glass Blowers & a View to Breathe
Waynesboro, Virginia, nestled right at the gateway to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive, makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. Surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, it feels like a scenic retreat yet still offers plenty of things to see and do right in town.
When I first wandered through downtown Waynesboro, I immediately loved the colorful murals, inviting cafés, and locally owned shops. We spent time browsing antique stores and art spaces, and I thought it was an amazing way to connect with the town’s creative spirit without ever feeling rushed.
I especially enjoyed visiting the South River Greenway, which felt like stepping into a dream. Walking along the river trail with mountain views all around created such a unique balance of relaxation and beauty that made the visit even more memorable. For me, it was one of those experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without exploring the nearby Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail. Hiking through the historic rail tunnel was a brilliant idea, and emerging on the other side to breathtaking mountain scenery was a memory I still think of whenever I crave a short and exciting escape.
Just a short drive from Charlottesville or Staunton, Waynesboro offered both outdoor adventure and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away.
9. Arlington: Memory in Motion & the Quiet of Stone
Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. Blending urban energy with historic landmarks, it feels like both a bustling city and a meaningful retreat all at once.
When I first explored Arlington, I immediately loved the mix of modern neighborhoods, inviting cafés, and vibrant public spaces. We spent time wandering through Clarendon and Crystal City, and I thought it was an amazing way to experience the lively atmosphere without ever needing to cross into D.C.
I especially enjoyed visiting Arlington National Cemetery, which felt like stepping into a dream of history and remembrance. Watching the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a unique experience that left a lasting impression. For me, it was one of those powerful moments that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without walking the trails along the Mount Vernon Trail. Seeing the D.C. skyline from across the river was a brilliant idea, and it offered some of the coolest views I’ve had on a casual afternoon walk. Stopping afterward for dinner at a local restaurant in Pentagon City rounded out the day perfectly.
Just minutes from downtown D.C., Arlington offered both history and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel connected to the region’s story.
10. Fairfax: Courthouse Quiet & Korean Spice
Fairfax, Virginia, set in the heart of Northern Virginia just outside Washington, D.C., makes for an easy and joyful day trip that I’ve returned to again and again. With its mix of history, green spaces, and lively neighborhoods, it feels like both a suburban retreat and a hub of activity.
When I first explored Old Town Fairfax, I immediately loved the brick sidewalks, inviting cafés, and boutique shops. We spent time visiting the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, and I thought it was an amazing way to connect with the area’s past while enjoying a laid-back atmosphere.
I especially enjoyed wandering through Daniels Run Park, which felt like stepping into a dream. The wooded trails and peaceful creek offered a unique balance of nature and calm right in the middle of town, and it made the visit even more memorable. For me, it was one of those experiences that linger long after the trip ends.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without stopping by George Mason University’s campus. Catching a performance at the Center for the Arts was a brilliant idea, and it added a cool cultural twist to the day. Later, grabbing dinner at a local family-run restaurant rounded things out perfectly.
Just a quick drive from Arlington or Alexandria, Fairfax offered both history and charm with an atmosphere that made me feel worlds away.
11. Taste local wines and visit charming shops on a cheap summer outing.
Conclusion
What I love most about Virginia day trips is the variety—every town and city has its own character, history, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From riverside strolls in Occoquan to mountain views in Waynesboro, from the historic streets of Lexington to the sandy shoreline of Virginia Beach, each destination feels like a new adventure even if it’s just a short drive away.
These places are not just stops on a map; they’re opportunities to slow down, connect with local culture, and create memories that linger long after the trip ends. Whether I’m in the mood for a romantic escape, a family-friendly outing, or a quick solo getaway, Virginia always delivers with experiences that feel both affordable and special.
For me, the magic of these day trips is that they combine convenience with discovery. Within just a few hours, I can leave behind the busy pace of everyday life and step into something new—whether it’s history, nature, art, or food. Virginia’s towns and cities may be close to home, but every visit feels like a getaway worth savoring.
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.
