Virginia is where American history meets outdoor adventure, from the beaches of Virginia Beach to the mountain trails of Shenandoah National Park. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, the state offers everything from Colonial Williamsburg’s living history to Wolf Trap’s world-class performing arts. Here’s your guide to the best attractions, outdoor fun, and hidden gems across the Commonwealth.
Key Takeaways:
- Virginia Beach offers 3 miles of boardwalk, water sports, and Atlantic Ocean views perfect for families and beach lovers.
- Northern Virginia delivers easy access to Arlington National Cemetery, Mount Vernon, and Old Town Alexandria’s historic charm.
- Shenandoah National Park features over 200 miles of hiking trails and the scenic Skyline Drive for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Colonial Williamsburg, the American Civil War Museum, and Richmond’s museums bring history to life for visitors of all ages.
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Virginia Beach: Coastal Fun for Everyone
Virginia Beach is the state’s premier coastal destination, drawing visitors year-round with its 3-mile boardwalk, sandy beaches, and Atlantic Ocean breezes. The area combines family-friendly fun with outdoor activities that keep both kids and adults entertained.
Here’s what makes Virginia Beach a must-visit:
- Boardwalk & Beaches: Bike rentals, street performers, and beachfront restaurants line the iconic boardwalk.
- Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing lessons are available for all skill levels.
- Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge: Nature lovers can explore trails and spot migratory birds in this protected area.
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: Hands-on exhibits let kids get up close with sea life.
Pro Tip: Visit in late spring (May) or early fall (September) to avoid summer crowds while still enjoying warm beach weather. Parking fills up quickly on weekends, so arrive before 10 AM or use the public trolley system.
The oceanfront district features plenty of restaurants serving fresh seafood, from casual crab shacks to upscale dining. Check Visit Virginia Beach for current events and seasonal festivals.
Northern Virginia: History Meets Modern Culture
Northern Virginia sits just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., making it an ideal base for exploring both state and national landmarks. This region blends historic sites with vibrant city neighborhoods and outdoor parks.
| Attraction | Best For | Location |
| Arlington National Cemetery | History buffs, honoring veterans | Arlington |
| Mount Vernon | George Washington fans, guided tours | Fairfax County |
| Old Town Alexandria | Shopping, waterfront dining, galleries | Alexandria |
| Great Falls Park | Hiking, rock climbing, river views | McLean |
| Wolf Trap | Outdoor concerts, performing arts | Vienna |
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery honors over 400,000 American service members and their families. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which takes place every hour (every 30 minutes in summer months). The cemetery grounds are open daily, and admission is free. Check Arlington Cemetery’s official site for current visiting hours and ceremony schedules.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, George Washington’s historic estate, sits along the Potomac River and offers tours of the mansion, gardens, and museum. The site hosts seasonal events and reenactments that bring the first president’s life into focus. Spring garden tours are particularly beautiful when the grounds bloom. Visit Mount Vernon’s website for ticket prices and special programming.
Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria charms visitors with cobblestone streets, 18th-century architecture, and waterfront views. The neighborhood features boutique shopping, art galleries, and restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors. Weekend farmers markets and outdoor concerts add to the community vibe locals love.
Pro Tip: Park at the King Street Metro station and take the free King Street Trolley into Old Town. It runs every 15 minutes and saves you the hassle of finding street parking.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts hosts everything from symphony orchestras to contemporary music acts in its outdoor amphitheater. The venue operates from May through September, offering lawn seating and covered pavilion seats. Check Wolf Trap’s calendar for the 2026 season lineup.
Colonial Williamsburg & Historic Sites
Virginia’s historic sites tell the story of America’s founding, and Colonial Williamsburg stands as the crown jewel of living history museums. The 300-acre site recreates 18th-century life with costumed interpreters, working trade shops, and historic buildings you can actually walk through.
Colonial Williamsburg includes:
- Governor’s Palace: Tour the residence of Virginia’s royal governors.
- Capitol Building: See where colonial lawmakers debated independence.
- Trade Shops: Watch blacksmiths, coopers, and wigmakers practice colonial crafts.
- Taverns: Dine in period-authentic restaurants (reservations recommended).
The site connects to Yorktown and Jamestown, forming Virginia’s Historic Triangle. Plan a full day to explore Colonial Williamsburg properly. Purchase tickets through Colonial Williamsburg’s website for combo packages that include neighboring attractions.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg sits nearby if you want to mix history with theme park thrills. The park features European-themed areas and roller coasters that appeal to families and adrenaline seekers.
Pro Tip: Colonial Williamsburg offers evening programs with fewer crowds. The ghost tours and tavern nights give you a different perspective on colonial life after the day-trippers leave.
Richmond: Museums, Art & Civil War History
Richmond, Virginia’s capital, blends Civil War history with a thriving arts scene and outdoor recreation along the James River. The city appeals to history enthusiasts and culture seekers looking for museums, restaurants, and walking tours.
American Civil War Museum tells the story of the Civil War from multiple perspectives, including Union, Confederate, and enslaved people’s experiences. The museum’s location in historic Tredegar gives context to Richmond’s role in the war. Current exhibits and hours are available on the museum’s website.
Poe Museum celebrates Edgar Allan Poe’s time in Richmond with the world’s finest collection of his manuscripts and belongings. The museum occupies the Old Stone House, Richmond’s oldest structure, and features a garden perfect for quiet reflection.
Thomas Jefferson designed the Virginia State Capitol building in 1788, and guided tours show off the Rotunda and legislative chambers. The building remains an active government site, so check ahead for public tour availability.
Richmond’s art exhibits span multiple venues:
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: Free admission to permanent collections.
- Institute for Contemporary Art: Modern works in a striking waterfront building.
- Carytown Galleries: Local artists showcase paintings, pottery, and crafts.
The Canal Walk follows the James River through downtown Richmond, connecting parks and offering biking paths. Restaurants in Shockoe Slip and Scott’s Addition serve everything from craft beer to farm-fresh Southern cuisine. Visit Richmond Tourism for current dining recommendations and festival dates.
Shenandoah National Park & Outdoor Activities
Shenandoah National Park stretches across the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering over 200 miles of hiking trails and 105 miles of Skyline Drive. The national park ranks as Virginia’s top destination for outdoor activities, from casual nature walks to challenging backcountry camping.
Hiking options range from easy to strenuous:
- Dark Hollow Falls: 1.4-mile round trip to a 70-foot waterfall (moderate difficulty).
- Old Rag Mountain: 9-mile loop with rock scrambling (difficult, but worth it).
- Stony Man Trail: 1.6-mile round trip to panoramic views (easy, family-friendly).
- Hawksbill Summit: Highest peak in the park with 360-degree vistas.
Skyline Drive winds through the park with 75 overlooks where you can pull off and enjoy mountain views without leaving your car. Fall foliage peaks in mid-October, turning the mountains into a canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. Check the National Park Service for current trail conditions and entrance fees.
Pro Tip: Weekday visits in spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best weather with smaller crowds. Summer weekends can get crowded, especially at popular trailheads. Arrive before 9 AM to snag parking spots.
Outdoor fun extends beyond Shenandoah:
- Luray Caverns: Underground formations and the Great Stalacpipe Organ make this cave system a natural wonder. Tours run year-round. Book ahead during peak season.
- New River Gorge: Rock climbing and whitewater rafting (near West Virginia border).
- Biking: Virginia Capital Trail connects Richmond to Williamsburg on a 52-mile paved path.
- Nature Centers: Multiple locations offer guided walks and wildlife programs for kids.
The outdoors in Virginia provide year-round recreation, whether you prefer mountain hiking, river paddling, or nature photography.
Museums & Performing Arts
Virginia’s museums cover everything from space exploration to hands-on exhibits that kids love. The state values both preserving history and showcasing performing arts that bring communities together.
Top Museums for Families:
- Smithsonian Air and Space Museum (Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center): Space artifacts, historic aircraft, and IMAX films in Chantilly, Northern Virginia.
- Children’s Museum of Richmond: Hands-on exhibits designed for younger kids.
- Virginia Living Museum: Combines zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden in Newport News.
- Frontier Culture Museum: Living history farm showcasing immigrant experiences in Staunton.
Performing Arts Venues:
Wolf Trap leads Virginia’s outdoor concert scene with performances from May through September. The venue hosts everything from classical music to contemporary acts on its lawn and pavilion stages.
Other performing arts spaces include:
- The National: Historic theater in Richmond hosting concerts and comedy shows.
- Birchmere Music Hall: Intimate venue in Alexandria known for folk, bluegrass, and Americana.
- Altria Theater: Broadway touring productions in Richmond.
Pro Tip: Many Virginia museums offer free admission days once a month. Check individual websites for “First Sunday Free” or similar programs that let you explore without paying entrance fees.
Art exhibits rotate regularly at university galleries and community arts centers throughout the state. Local crafts fairs and festivals celebrate Virginia’s artisan community, especially in the Blue Ridge region.
Planning your museum visits around weather works well in Virginia. Save indoor attractions for hot summer afternoons or rainy days, then head outdoors when conditions improve.
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Start planning your Virginia adventure and discover why travelers choose CozySuites for their accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Virginia for families with kids?
Virginia Beach, Colonial Williamsburg, and Shenandoah National Park top the list for family fun. Virginia Beach offers hands-on exhibits at the aquarium and safe swimming beaches. Colonial Williamsburg lets kids experience history through interactive demonstrations and period games. Shenandoah provides easy hiking trails and Junior Ranger programs designed for children.
Is Tysons Corner worth visiting for shopping?
Tysons Corner Center and Tysons Galleria offer upscale shopping with over 300 stores combined, making it the largest shopping district in the DC Metro area. The malls feature luxury brands, department stores, and diverse dining options. If shopping is your main goal, Tysons Corner delivers, but prioritize Virginia’s historic sites and natural attractions first.
Can you visit George Mason University or take a guided tour?
George Mason University in Fairfax offers campus tours for prospective students and visitors interested in exploring Northern VA’s academic institutions. The university also hosts public events, art exhibits, and performances throughout the year. Check the university’s visitor center for tour schedules and parking information.
Where can I find outdoor concerts in Virginia during summer?
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts in Vienna hosts the state’s premier outdoor concert series from May through September. Virginia Beach’s boardwalk features free concerts on weekends during summer. Richmond’s Innsbrook After Hours and Charlottesville’s Sprint Pavilion also offer outdoor music venues. Check local tourism boards for current schedules.
What historic town should I visit besides Colonial Williamsburg?
Old Town Alexandria combines 18th-century architecture with modern restaurants and shopping along the Potomac River waterfront. The town features walking tours, the Torpedo Factory Art Center, and George Washington’s ties to the area. Staunton in the Shenandoah Valley offers another charming historic downtown with Victorian architecture and the American Shakespeare Center.
Are there any Great Wolf Lodge locations in Virginia?
Great Wolf Lodge has a location in Williamsburg, Virginia, combining an indoor water park with hotel accommodations. The resort appeals to families looking for year-round water fun regardless of weather. It sits near Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens, making it easy to combine multiple attractions in one trip.
