Virginia
15 Best Places to Visit in Virginia, According to Locals
As someone who spent the first two decades of their life in Virginia, only to find themselves moving back after 10 years away, I can attest that it’s a state with a seemingly endless number of places to explore. My childhood was spent in the Blue Ridge Mountains — camping in the Peaks of Otter and canoeing down the James River — and my college years brought me to Williamsburg, where history and higher education go hand in hand with waterfront views. Now, I’m a resident of Charlottesville, a small city within driving distance of Shenandoah National Park and Virginia’s Wine Country.
“Virginia has everything that you could ever ask for,” says George Hodson, CEO of Veritas Vineyard and Winery in Afton. “For me, it is the natural resources… rivers, lakes, oceans, and mountains — and four seasons to enjoy each of them in.” Matilda Reuter Engle, proprietor of Middleburg Hospitality and general manager of The Red Fox Inn & Tavern and Glenstone Gardens, has the same mindset when it comes to the Old Dominion’s charm: “Virginians take great pride in their connection to nature, reflected in the state’s agricultural heritage, rural traditions, and a commitment to preserving open spaces.”
No matter which region you’re traveling to, make sure you experience some of this unmatched natural beauty, as well as the small towns, culturally rich cities, and unforgettable sights that set this state apart. Read on to discover the best places to visit in Virginia.
Natural Bridge
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Travelers of all ages will want to make their way to Natural Bridge. Located just south of Lexington, it’s home to Natural Bridge State Park and the Caverns at Natural Bridge. The former, which is a designated National Historic Landmark, is known for its 200-foot-tall stone archway; the latter allows visitors to descend more than 34 stories into the Earth as they admire stalactites, stalagmites, and other underground wonders.
James River
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The largest river in Virginia, the James starts in the Appalachian Mountains and flows into the Chesapeake Bay. “It’s an amazing place to get outside and be outside,” says Hodson, who recommends getting on the water in Scottsville with James River Runners.
Blue Ridge Parkway
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“If you want a beautiful drive, [the] Blue Ridge Parkway offers a scenic trip on the way to Shenandoah National Park,” says Reuter Engle. As you start planning your drive, download the Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner app; this is super helpful if you’re unsure what each region and section of the parkway offers.
Richmond
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Virginia’s capital city has something for everyone — from history lovers and art fanatics to foodies and outdoorsy types. If you’re interested in the beverage scene, however, Hodson suggests checking out Scott’s Addition, which he describes as a “playground for big kids.” Here, you’ll find old factories and warehouses converted into taprooms, cideries, and distilleries.
Smith Mountain Lake
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You may have heard it described as the “Lake Tahoe of the East,” but Smith Mountain Lake definitely has its own personality and appeal. The reservoir is the second-largest body of water in the state, with 500 miles of shoreline and two dozen islands, and it provides plenty of room for water activities — including swimming, boating, fishing, and various water sports.
Monticello Wine Trail
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Hodson calls this area of the world — one he’s very much familiar with — “a world-class wine region with so many great winery experiences, all within a 30-minute drive from Charlottesville.” The Monticello Wine Trail spans 40 vineyards, with each offering wine tastings paired with gorgeous Virginia views.
Historic Triangle
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The three points on the Historic Triangle — Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown — make for an educational and beautiful weekend getaway. Along the route, also known as the Colonial Parkway, you’ll have the chance to visit Historic Jamestowne, the Jamestown Settlement, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield, and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
Crozet
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Crozet is “still a quiet little Virginia town, but [it’s] on the rise,” says Hodson. Plus, it’s a great day trip from Charlottesville. As far as an ideal itinerary, Hodson has you covered. “Grab a coffee and a bagel at Praha Bakery… head off to hike Blue Hole from the Sugar Hollow reservoir, then come back to downtown Crozet and treat yourself to a sauna and cold plunge at Reset Crozet.” Finally, he says, “Have dinner at the legendary Fardowners.”
Middleburg
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Reuter Engle, whose family has been in Middleburg for generations, admits that while she may be biased, the historic town has plenty to do and see in every season. Her must-experience list includes: “Christmas in Middleburg’s traditional hunt parade that draws thousands each year; the Middleburg Film Festival in the fall; Historic Garden Week in the spring; and equestrian activities galore in the fall and spring, such as the Middleburg Spring Races, the Virginia Gold Cup, and the Upperville Colt & Horse Show.”
Lexington
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Travelers may know Lexington for its association with Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington & Lee University, but it also boasts one of the most interesting outdoor entertainment venues. Once an abandoned limestone quarry and kiln, Lime Kiln Theater welcomes 675 guests to enjoy shows featuring bluegrass, folk, and other music genres surrounded by trees, natural stone walls, and the stars overhead. The 2024 season will be announced in March.
Shenandoah River
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“For the water sports enthusiast seeking an exhilarating experience, the Shenandoah River is a must-visit destination,” says Reuter Engle. Rafting, tubing, and kayaking are all possibilities, and she suggests heading to the Harpers Ferry Adventure Center “for both adventurous and family-friendly options.”
Virginia Beach
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Virginia has some of the country’s oldest mountains, but you can’t forget about its oceanfront destinations — namely, Virginia Beach. “I grew up a surfer kid at the beach, and I feel so at home there,” says Hodson, sharing that the ViBe Creative District, in particular, is notable for its “great coffee shops and restaurants.” He recommends grabbing a drink or a bite at Three Ships Coffee and The Pink Dinghy, which sit right next to one another.
Ashby Gap and Sky Meadows State Park
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“Just about an hour outside of Washington, D.C., these two spots on either side of Paris, Virginia are perfect for experiencing the natural beauty of our state with a good hike or walk outside,” explains Reuter Engle. Sky Meadows State Park is especially beautiful during the fall when foliage is at its peak. While in the area, she recommends stopping at The Ashby Inn for lunch and picking up local produce at Hollin Farms.
Bath County
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Just like the city of Bath in England, Bath County, Virginia gets its name from its natural healing waters. You can experience them for yourself by making a reservation at the recently renovated Warm Springs Pools, part of The Omni Homestead Resort. Travelers interested in the more agricultural side of the county can opt to stay at Apple Horse Farm, a sustainable cattle and pig farm with a standalone cabin available for short-term rentals.
Shenandoah National Park
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Reuter Engle says travelers can expect “picturesque hiking” in Shenandoah National Park, where 500 miles of trails lead hikers to waterfalls, scenic landscapes, and remnants of pioneer history. One of the most popular paths is Old Rag, a 9.1-mile loop trail that’s labeled as “difficult.” If you can handle a bit of rock scrambling, though, the views are completely worth the climb.