Located midway between New York and Florida on the U.S. East Coast, the state of Virginia stretches from the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains, boasting a diverse landscape perfect for all kinds of adventures.
Whether you’re a wine sipper, history enthusiast, music aficionado, or a trail hiker, Virginia has all the reasons why it should be on your travel radar.
The state’s natural beauty invites exploration, from mountain biking in the Blue Ridge mountains to kayaking along the Atlantic coastline.
The destination is also steeped in American history, from the first permanent English settlement at Jamestown to presidential estates like George Washington’s Mount Vernon.
Seamlessly weaving the past with contemporary attractions, Virginia’s vibrant cultural scene is one to discover.
Moreover, you can savour delightful culinary experiences such as Chef’s Table Tours featuring fresh oysters and enchanting farm-to-table dinners under the stars or embark on a scenic horse ride through the vineyards.
Virginia is easily accessible via its two main airports, Washington Dulles International (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), with seamless connectivity from both to Washington D.C. via the Washington Metrorail.
Here are the top reasons why Virginia deserves a coveted spot on your bucket list:
1. Extraordinary Food Scene
Alongside Virginia’s numerous attractions, including almost 400 wineries, nearly 300 craft breweries, and more than 100 distilleries and cideries, the destination is complemented by an acclaimed culinary scene that continues to captivate travellers.
You can grab a chance to savour the region’s farm-to-table delights at the Restaurant at Patowmack Farm. Within a glass conservatory with panoramic views of the Potomac River and starlit skies, this culinary gem is affectionately known as ‘a 1,000-star restaurant’.
Prepare to be enchanted by its equally celebrated cuisine, elevating your dining experience to new heights of excellence.
While heading towards the mountains, don’t miss a lunch stop at Patty O’s Café in Little Washington, the more casual presentation of the internationally acclaimed Michelin Three-Star Inn at Little Washington next door.
Patty O’s features simple, classic American dishes from star Chef Patrick O’Connell’s own childhood.
However, one of the best culinary adventures awaits you on the Chef’s Table Tour at Pleasure House Oysters near Virginia Beach. Prepare for an unforgettable farm-to-table experience as you wade knee-deep into the Lynnhaven River, to dine at a table made from oyster cages set directly in the water.
In between bites, explore the oyster farm, handle gear, pick up oysters and learn about the wildlife, waterways and natural surroundings that give the Lynnhaven Oyster its coveted and distinct flavour.
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2. Great Outdoors
While the coast of Virginia is quite popular, nature enthusiasts will also wish to venture to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park, where they’ll discover stunning waterfalls, fields alive with wildflowers, and awe-inspiring views.
Whether you’re biking, kayaking, bouldering, or hiking, Virginia is the perfect destination to explore and be captivated by its natural wonders throughout the year.
Wine Country Exploration
Loudoun County, renowned as DC’s Wine Country, boasts over 50 esteemed wineries and wine-tasting rooms, accompanied by 30 craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries.
This picturesque region, also celebrated as Virginia’s Horse and Hunt Country, captivates with its verdant hills, grazing horses, and elegant estates.
Furthermore, Loudoun County offers unique experiences, such as Equine Communication or ‘horse whispering’ where visitors can forge deeper connections between humans and horses at Salamander Middleburg’s Equestrian Centre, epitomizing the diverse allure of this enchanting locale.
Or head for Charlottesville and the Monticello Wine Trail and take a horseback ride through the vines with the Indian Summer Guide Service at one of several local vineyards.
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Wander Inside Luray Caverns
Prepare to be enchanted by the wonders within Luray Caverns, Eastern America’s largest caverns and a designated U.S. Natural Landmark. Marvel at the breathtaking variety of formations and vibrant natural hues that adorn this underground marvel.
Wander along well-lit, paved walkways as you delve into cathedral-sized chambers, boasting ceilings that soar 10 stories high, adorned with towering stone columns and shimmering crystal-clear pools.
Don’t miss the ethereal melodies emanating from the world’s sole Stalactite Organ, as it orchestrates music of symphonic calibre from the very stone formations themselves.
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Kayaking to Chatham Vineyards
For a truly unique adventure, venture across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel to Virginia’s Eastern Shore, where you can kayak across oyster beds to a waterfront winery.
Enjoy a serene 45-minute kayak journey from the Bayford wharf to Chatham Vineyards, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the waterways.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides will point out local wildlife and aquaculture, adding depth to your experience. Upon reaching the historic property of Chatham Vineyards, enjoy a guided tour before indulging in a complimentary wine tasting.
Take in the vineyard’s ambiance as you savor a glass of wine and cheese tray, basking in the idyllic surroundings before paddling back.
Hiking and outdoor activities
Experience the great outdoors in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, where endless adventure awaits. With a quarter of the famed Appalachian Trail passing through, world-class mountain biking and iconic destinations like the Blue Ridge Parkway, the region offers boundless natural beauty.
Discover hidden gems in the vast wilderness of the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, where each season brings new opportunities for outdoor fun.
Whether you prefer hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, cycling the scenic New River Trail, or simply enjoying the rugged landscapes of Breaks Interstate Park and Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia’s outdoor experiences are sure to delight.
3. Heart of American History
Virginia stands at the heart of American history, drawing countless visitors each year to iconic sites like Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Colonial Williamsburg, and James Madison’s Montpelier.
Serving as the Birthplace of America, with Jamestown marking the first permanent English settlement in the New World, Virginia offers a profound exploration of the nation’s heritage.
Beyond its famed landmarks, Virginia’s historical tapestry extends to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the roots of moonshine history and American car racing.
Along the Potomac River ongoing efforts to redefine historical narratives are evident at George Washington’s Distillery, offering a glimpse into 18th-century distilling practices and whiskey sampling.
Just two hours south of Washington D.C., Richmond provides a poignant insight into the American Civil War. Everywhere you turn in Virginia, a historic discovery awaits.
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4. Unparalleled Cultural Scene
Virginia’s cultural heritage runs deep, intertwining seamlessly with its modern attractions. Music aficionados can trace the roots of American music along Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, The Crooked Road, where the official Birthplace of Country Music Museum and the iconic Carter Family Fold rustic reside.
Beyond music, Virginia’s allure extends to its captivating gardens and blooming landscapes, inspiring travelers through events like Historic Garden Week.
The state is also home to an array of distinctive museums showcasing American culture, such as the Edgar Allen Poe Museum, juxtaposed with Richmond’s vibrant street art scene.
5. Exceptional Shopping Experience
Prepare yourself for a top-tier shopping experience at some of the region’s most esteemed retail destinations.
From the refined Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets and the expansive Tysons Corner Center to the vibrant Ballston Quarter in Arlington and quaint antique shops, there’s something to cater to every preference and budget.
You can also find the perfect home-grown ingredients, arts and crafts at local Farmers Markets. Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square Farmer’s Market holds the distinction of being one of America’s oldest continuously operating farmer’s markets for 241 years, where vendors have been selling their produce and goods since 1753.
This is the perfect place to bid Virginia goodbye with fond memories and souvenirs from your unforgettable visit.