Named after England’s virgin queen Elizabeth I, Virginia was the first state where the English settled. It is also the state where four of the first five US presidents originated. Hence, the title “The birthplace of a nation.” It stretches from the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains along the Atlantic coastline, offering many natural wonders across the state. From the beaches to the national parks and commercial activities to historic landmarks, there are more ways to enjoy the southeastern US state than you can imagine. Keep reading to find out more about some of the top places we carefully selected for you to ensure a memorable trip to Virginia! Scroll below to check out the best places to go on vacation in Virginia.
1. Alexandria (from USD 127.0)
Old Town Alexandria is hard to miss when you’re around Virginia. This charming city went through a fascinating revolution and played a prominent role from the Revolutionary War till today. Join the three-hour tour and discover the best way to explore the city, including interesting facts (or even scandalous ones!) from an experienced guide. Taste the local flavors as you walk across historic landmarks, galleries, and parks.
Southern Comfort - Old Town Alexandria Food & History Tour
Duration: 3 hours
2. Chincoteague
Virginia Beach may be widely known by the world, but you should put Chincoteague on the list instead. It is not a typical big city resort. Guests can experience a serene island-life with unspoiled nature in Virginia’s only island resort. Home of the famous Chincoteague wild ponies, it boasts a relaxing atmosphere with spectacular sunset views from Chincoteague Bay. If you want to escape from the traffic and claustrophobic big cities, then come and visit this place!
Chincoteague
Address: 7358 Grace Street, Chincoteague Island, VA 23336
Website: Chincoteague
3. Mount Vernon (from USD 67.0)
Had enough historic and cultural tours? Perhaps it’s time to go back to nature. Join this four to seven-hour independent bike tour that allows you to wander around the Mount Vernon trail. It will lead you to the historic estate of George Washington and you will get the chance to explore the grounds, galleries, and hallways before continuing your journey along the Potomac River. Admire the 18th-century architecture and opt for an upgrade to enjoy a relaxing boat ride from the Mount Vernon dock at 4 pm.
Mount Vernon Self-Guided Bike Tour with Potomac Cruise Option
Duration: 4 to 7 hours
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4. Richmond (from USD 55.0)
Glide around Virginia’s capital in this two-hour tour. Travel with ease and get a glimpse of Richmond’s most historic landmarks from the Old City Hall, St. Paul’s Church, and Monument Avenue. Get your segway and helmet at the location, learn to ride in 10-15 minutes, then follow the guide towards the Haxall Canal and listen to mesmerizing stories about the city’s history and famous icons including George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Edgar Allan Poe.
Richmond Landmark Segway Tour
Duration: 2 hours
5. Abingdon
Enjoy history in the most eccentric way by joining the Haunted and Historic Abingdon Virginia GhostWalk. A certified guide will take you on a two to three-hour session to unravel the city’s mystery through a journey of science and history. It is a spine-chilling sensation as you walk across historic sites and haunted buildings in a group. Be careful not to get lost!
The Haunted and Historic Abingdon Virginia GhostWalk
Address: 110 North Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24201
Website: The Haunted and Historic Abingdon Virginia GhostWalk
6. Shenandoah National Park
Immerse yourself in nature by joining a full-day walking tour to Shenandoah National Park, and observe the stunning Skyline Drive overlooking the Shenandoah Valley and the Allegheny mountain range. With a moderately easy trek for adults, you can enjoy spectacular views of rivers, waterfalls, and mountain summits along the hike. If you’re lucky, some wildlife creatures may appear, including the American black bear!
Shenandoah National Park
Address: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, USA
Website: Shenandoah National Park
7. Williamsburg (from USD 49.0)
Discover this renowned historic city in a nine-hour tour that lets you learn about colonial America and the revolutionary era. The guide will take you to see theatrical performances, vibrant gardens, and art museums alongside the original 18th-century buildings and homes where you can meet the local townspeople. Travel back to the 1700s and see how the tradespeople worked as blacksmiths, printers, or milliners, then get the chance to play a role as one of the citizens in old Williamsburg.
Colonial Williamsburg Admission with Historical Reenactments
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
8. Jamestown (from USD 119.0)
Learn the history of early America by doing a historic tour starting from Jamestown to Yorktown. In this full-day tour, the guide will take you to Colonial Williamsburg to help you gain an insight into the American Revolution. Then, you have four hours to explore the historic Jamestown where you can take another tour with an archaeologist, an education specialist, or a park ranger to know about the latest discoveries. The next site is Jamestown Settlement. Here, you can get the story of English colonists during the 17th-century through films, a gallery, and outdoor settings. The tour ends with a visit to The American Revolution Museum and Yorktown Battlefield.
Americas Historic Triangle: Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown
Duration: 1 to 7 days
9. Fredericksburg (from USD 97.0)
Find the best way to experience Civil War history by joining a driving tour in Fredericksburg. Get to know the feeling when General Burnside drove towards Richmond in the 17th century with the army during the Potomac’s winter campaign. Explore the former battlefield, the ‘bloody plain’, and the rural farmland with a narrative from an experienced guide and learn about the city’s painful past. This tour does more justice than Hollywood’s re-enactments of the battle of Fredericksburg.
Hill Country & Fredericksburg Excursion from San Antonio
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
10. Charlottesville (from USD 62.0)
Get the taste of Virginia’s best eateries by joining this three-hour food tour around Charlottesville. Let the local guides tell you where to find the best food in town! Discover the city’s history through their fried chicken and collard greens, local cheese and meats, beers and ciders, fresh salmon, and chocolates. Remember, the best way to learn about a culture is through its food!
Taste of Charlottesville Food Tour
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Explore the best of Virginia
Despite the famous beaches, Virginia leads above other US states when it comes to historical tourism. The places mentioned above may be less popular in terms of travel destinations, but they offer equally attractive and fun activities if you’re keen to dig more. Forget the overhyped beach resorts. It’s time to learn more about history, culture, and untouched nature. Or, sometimes, you can look for more challenges by joining a chilling ghost tour!
History
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