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6 Beautiful Vacation Spots in Virginia

Destinations, Travel Hacks / by

Virginia may not be the first place that comes to mind when you picture the most beautiful vacation spots. Yet, Virginia is a state that boasts some breathtaking views, smile-filled adventures, and family-friendly happenings. In fact, it can be the perfect place to bring your family for some much-needed relaxation. The best part is that you can visit just about any time during the year! Virginia experiences the four seasons, but they do so mildly.

If you are thinking about checking out this Old Dominion state, then we’ve got six beautiful vacation spots you aren’t going to want to miss – from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean and everything in between!

1. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Looking for something on the coast? Book your stay at the Ocean Beach Club in Virginia Beach for a breathtaking view of the seaside city along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It is also where the Chesapeake Bay meets the ocean. Here is where you will find the city’s infamous three-mile boardwalk.  It’s a beautiful place to take in the ocean and go for a stroll. The seaside resorts, such as Diamond Resort’s Boardwalk Resort and Villas, offers you to stay close to all the sea fun.

And, that is not all that Virginia Beach is known for. You will not want to miss these great experiences:

  • Beaches, especially Virginia Beach, Sandbridge Beach, and Chicks Beach.
  • Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center*.
  • Neptune’s Park where you are sure to find an exciting event.
  • Mount Trashmore Park for walking, hiking, and playgrounds for the kids.
  • Historical Cape Henry Lighthouse.

Shopping, dining, and family adventure spots are also located throughout this gem of a city.

2. Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is full of history and, if you are a history buff, you will not want to miss checking out places, such as the Jamestown Settlement, Yorktown Battlefield, American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, Williamsburg Craft Beers tasting trail, golf courses, Busch Gardens*, and so many other things.

However, it’s the beautiful views and the remnants of colonial life that calls people back time and time again. And, of course, the Great Wolf Lodge with Diamond Resorts. This resort has a huge indoor water park, bowling, games, a candy store, and so much more. It’s an all-around family friendly place that you won’t want to miss!

3. Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia is known for its history.  It is located along the Potomac River and right next to Washington, D.C. With sidewalks made out of brick and 18th and 19th-century architectural structures throughout, its Old Town is quite the sight for those wanting to take a step back in time.

This big city with a small-town feel offers many things to do for those to visit.

  • Mount Vernon. This was the home of the first President of the United States, George Washington. This plantation has been beautifully maintained and kept reflecting the times of the president. There are green gardens and beautiful landscaping that you won’t want to miss, along with museums and live events!
  • Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary*. Open until 1933, this apothecary has been preserved for visitors like you. You can take a tour and see how potions and elixirs were made.
  • Carlyle House*. This 18th-century manor home and gardens have been maintained and persevered, showing a glimpse of history.
  • Washington, D.C. This city is close enough to the Nation’s Capital allowing you the opportunity to see both cities.

Stay at the beautiful Lorien Hotel & Spa in the heart of historic Old Town and enjoy the remarkable history, scenery, and local hot-spots.

4. Richmond, Virginia

There are few places in the United States older than the city of Richmond. This city, the capital of Virginia, is full of so many historical sites that you won’t want to miss. It is full of arts, culture, local shops, gardens,and trails, and all sorts of fun and intriguing stuff to make you thankful you chose Richmond as your destination.

  • Explore the history of the Civil War and visit the Museum of the Confederacy.
  • Enjoy whitewater rafting on the James River.
  • Visit historical landmarks throughout the city.
  • Richmond’s craft beer scene is exploding. Tour the breweries and sample your way through the city.

Take a stroll through Pony Pasture Park or through the Edgar Allen Poe Museum*. No matter what you choose to do while you are here, you will return home with a load of experiences.

5. Chesapeake Virginia

The history and beauty that is found in Chesapeake will embrace you. This is especially true for those who are fans of the outdoors. You can spend time outdoors at the Northwest River Park and Campground where you will find scenic trails and exciting wildlife along the coastline. Or, there is always the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge* where you may see animals such as snow geese, tundra swans, black bears, bald eagles, and so much more. Checking out the largest and last battleships, Battleship Wisconsin, which is housed here in Chesapeake is another option.

Chesapeake, Virginia offers much to do in the arts, museums, outdoor excitement, dining and shopping, historical sites, and more.

6. Arlington, Virginia

Arlington is located within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. That means it is also a city that offers you two destinations! So much to do with our Nation’s capital is found within this area.

Or if you are looking for something slightly different to do, you can:

There are so many things to do in this busy city – but perhaps the best is to see the memorials lit up at night. It’s a breathtaking sight that you won’t soon forget.

Virginia as a whole is full of so much history that it is hard to visit this state and not learn something new. Whether it’s the beaches along the coast or the historical homes and gardens inland, you will find something to love. So, get out your walking shoes and head out to discover Virginia!

* Link to third party site

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