“Virginia is for lovers” is one of the most famous tourism phrases of all time. When the slogan was coined in 1969 by the state’s tourism board, it wasn’t intended to sound romantic. It was meant to refer to those who loved all of the state’s best attractions — the mountains, the beaches, and the historic sites. However, more than 50 years later, the phrase has stuck, and it makes sense romantically too. Virginia has many destinations that are perfect for a couple’s getaway. The state brims with vibrant cities that balance historical traditions with contemporary culture. The natural beauty of the coastline is just as breathtaking as the Blue Ridge Mountains. Just about everywhere, there are gorgeous hotels and resorts that cater to couples with elegant rooms, luxurious spas, and fine dining. Read on for the best romantic getaways in Virginia, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to couple-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 31, 2024.
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1. Alexandria
Great dining experiences with a variety of options, excellent service, and nearby dining alternatives.
Competitive pricing for a prime location in Old Town.
Central location within walking distance to restaurants, waterfront, and shops.
Cozy lobby with a fireplace, complimentary water at check-in, spacious and clean rooms, convenient parking.
Alexandria is a historic city nestled on the Potomac River, about a 20-minute drive away from Washington, DC. Though Alexandria is often overshadowed by the nation’s capital, it’s a destination in its own right. Charming row houses sit alongside brick-lined sidewalks in the Old Town section. At night, it’s the perfect setting for a romantic stroll under the twinkle lights on your way to one of the city’s coziest restaurants. Couples will also love taking a sunset river cruise.
Book Your Stay: The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection
Book Your Stay: Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria
Book Your Stay: Morrison House Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection
2. Charlottesville
Charlottesville is a city that has the perfect balance between American traditions and progressive arts and culture. There are a lot of romantic places in the city that are perfect for date nights. Stroll through the expansive gardens at the University of Virginia. Catch a show at one of the many historic theatres in the city.
Charlottesville is also located in the heart of Virginia’s wine country, and there’s no denying that romance and wine go hand-in-hand. So, amp up the romance quotient by taking a tour of the wineries. There are more than 30 wineries, all just a short drive away from the city.
Book Your Stay: Boar's Head Resort
Book Your Stay: Graduate by Hilton Charlottesville
Book Your Stay: Oakhurst Inn at the University
3. Williamsburg
Williamsburg is the perfect destination for history buffs. The city is full of historic sites, with the most well-known being Colonial Williamsburg. Book a carriage ride for two and spend your date traveling back in time through this living-history museum. The city is also full of modern-day romantic activities. Book a couple’s massage at one of the many spas in the city. If it’s the thrill you are after, head to Busch Gardens, a European-themed adventure park.
Book Your Stay: Hilton Vacation Club The Historic Powhatan Williamsburg
Book Your Stay: Marriott's Manor Club at Ford's Colony
4. Virginia Beach
Delicious dining experiences, but some inconsistencies in service and food quality.
Luxurious and comfortable, but some rooms may need attention to detail for the high cost.
Perfect location close to the beach with easy access to amenities at the companion property.
Beautiful indoor and outdoor pools, beach club, and spa, but spa reservations can be challenging.
There’s nothing more romantic than a stroll along the beach with your loved one. The coastal city of Virginia Beach offers you this opportunity and more. Its long, oceanfront boardwalk attracts live music and street performers. For a more secluded setting, bring your partner to Sandbridge Beach, where rolling sand dunes line the shore. Virginia Beach isn’t just about the ocean — the city has many distinct neighborhoods with thriving culinary and art scenes and plenty of nightlife options too.
Book Your Stay: The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club Autograph Collection
Book Your Stay: The Founders Inn & Spa Tapestry Collection By Hilton
Book Your Stay: Hilton Vacation Club Oceanaire Virginia Beach
5. Roanoke
Roanoke is a small but vibrant city nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. Autumn is the perfect time of the year for adventurous couples to hike the Appalachian Trail or bike on the hundreds of miles of trails in the area. There are plenty of romantic ways to take it easy, too. Visit some of the breweries, wineries, or distilleries on the Blue Ridge Cheers Trail. You can also take a sunset cruise on the breathtaking Smith Mountain Lake.
Book Your Stay: King George Inn
Book Your Stay: Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Curio Collection by Hilton
Book Your Stay: Shirley's Bed And Breakfast
6. Fredericksburg
Yummy breakfast with gluten-free options, outstanding service, and tasty morning coffee and tea.
Reasonable pricing for a charming historic inn with cozy rooms.
Convenient parking, perfect historic downtown location, and a quiet, comfortable environment.
Quaint Victorian decor, delicious breakfast delivered in a picnic basket, and personalized service.
Fredericksburg is a charming city that’s sure to rekindle the romance during your visit. You could spend hours strolling the historic downtown and finding special keepsakes in the galleries and antique stores. Cozy up at a table for two at one of Fredericksburg’s many restaurants and cafes.
Head right across the river to Belmont, the former estate of artist Gari Melchers and his wife. Walk on the trails, tour the art galleries and historic homes, and learn all about the Melchers’ beautiful love story. In the evening, have a unique movie night at the Paragon Village 12, where you can share a loveseat and order food and drinks during the movie.
Book Your Stay: The Richard Johnston Inn & 1890 Caroline House
Book Your Stay: Silver Collection Hotel
Book Your Stay: Inn at the Olde Silk Mill
7. Middleburg
Middleburg is a small town with a lot of romantic offerings. The cozy downtown district is dotted with high-end boutiques, where you and your partner can grab new outfits for a fancy night out. Much of the food scene in Middleburg is centered on Southern fare made from locally sourced ingredients.
Middleburg is known for being the horse and hunt capital of the US. Visitors can watch local horse shows and races year-round. There are also dozens of stables in the area, where you can take a couple’s horseback riding lessons and try a new experience together.
Book Your Stay: Salamander Resort and Spa
Book Your Stay: The Red Fox Inn & Tavern
Book Your Stay: Waterfront Cottage at Goose Creek
8. Luray
Luray offers one of the most unique attractions in all of Virginia — Luray Caverns, an extensive cave system that is the largest in the eastern US. Marvel at the 10-story tall caves, crystal-clear pools, and intricate stone formations. Above the ground, strengthen your bond as a couple by finding your way through the hedge maze together. More than 1,500 evergreen hedges line the pathways and targets helpfully guide you if you feel lost.
Luray is also right next to Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest. Couples can explore these areas of stunning natural beauty on foot, by bike, or by driving the scenic roads. Skyline Drive is a must-see road, especially in the fall as the hills explode with color.
Book Your Stay: Hotel Laurance
Book Your Stay: The Mimslyn Inn
Book Your Stay: South Court Inn
9. Richmond
The capital city of Virginia has something for every kind of traveler, which makes it the perfect destination for couples who have different interests. History buffs will find historical sites and markers everywhere you look. There are many museums and exhibits dedicated to Richmond’s role in the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and fight for civil rights.
However, Richmond is hardly stuck in the past. The thriving arts scene ranges from the annual Shakespeare Festival to comedy shows. You can find street art and murals on many walls throughout the city — the perfect backdrop for a couple’s photo. Everyone can agree that exploring the local food scene is the best part of traveling, and Richmond is well-known for its local culinary endeavors.
Book Your Stay: Linden Row Inn
Book Your Stay: The Berkeley Hotel
Book Your Stay: Graduate by Hilton Richmond
10. Fairfax
Fairfax is a county in northern Virginia that is a great destination for a romantic getaway. It’s home to many pristine gardens and botanical conservatories, such as the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. This expansive park has different kinds of plants and flowers blooming year-round and provides a romantic setting for a stroll. It is also home to the Korean Bell Garden, a cultural landmark that is one-of-a-kind in the Western Hemisphere.
Treat yourselves to an amazing date night by catching a performance at Wolf Trap National Park. This huge outdoor amphitheater features all kinds of musical artists, ranging from classical orchestra to pop. There are even theater and opera shows too. Pack a picnic and a local bottle of wine and enjoy a show under the stars.
Book Your Stay: Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax
Book Your Stay: Stafford House Bed & Breakfast
Book Your Stay: Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks
A state that's full of places to love
Virginia is an easy place to fall in love with. The state’s natural beauty, charming cities, and vibrant arts scene will immediately charm you as soon as you arrive. If you visit one of these romantic destinations with your partner, as you fall in love with Virginia, you’ll fall even more in love with your significant other, too.
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