day trips around virginia beach

• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

25 Best Day Trips From Virginia Beach — Places Nearby!

Virginia’s diverse cultural history and breathtaking natural beauty provide the best vacation for everyone.

This state will surely blow you away from historic places and remarkable mountain views to breathtaking beaches and beautiful parks.

If you’re traveling around Virginia and looking for the best day trips from Virginia Beach, then you are in luck.

Discover the best day trips from Virginia Beach by looking at our recommended places below.

1. Cape Charles

Cape Charles boasts one of the East Coast’s most densely packed collections of turn-of-the-century structures.

It takes a 54-minute drive to get to this city from Virginia Beach.

Nestled on Chesapeake Bay’s shorelines, it offers mile-long public beaches where you can relax and catch the sun.

Cape Charles has a spot for you whether you plan a romantic weekend or a large group getaway.

Stay in the town’s top B&Bs, and summer cottages, and upgrade your dining experience at waterfront restaurants to make the most of your visit.

2. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

4005 Sandpiper Rd Virginia Beach, VA 23456 (757) 301-7329

Southeast Virginia’s Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge was founded in 1938 in a remote area of the former Princess Anne County.

If you are looking for a daycation full of fantastic wildlife, look no further than Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

Located 31 minutes from Virginia Beach, this refuge has 9,200 acres of enormous and rich biodiversity.

Inside the place lies False Cape State Park, where you can witness plenty of reptiles, mammals, birds, amphibians, and various threatened species.

3. Great Dismal Swamp

3100 Desert Road Suffolk, VA 23434-8973 (757) 986-3705

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is home to some of the most vital wildlife habitats in the mid-Atlantic region.

You can reach the Great Dismal Swamp within an hour and a 5-minute drive from Virginia Beach.

This swamp spans over 112,000 acres and is between the states of Virginia and North Carolina.

It is a true gem whose primary goal is to save the ecology in its surrounding ecosystem.

Plus, it is the perfect setting for admiring the natural environment, going on hikes, fishing, and taking photographs of the pure beauty of nature.

Moreover, you can stroll along the swamp to discover unique wildlife you have never seen before.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront

Also See: Best Day Trips From Richmond

4. Colonial Williamsburg

101 Visitor Center Dr Williamsburg, VA 23185 (888) 965-7254

Colonial Williamsburg is a living-history museum and private foundation that showcases a portion of Williamsburg’s historic district.

This place is 60 miles and a 59-minute drive from Virginia Beach.

Explore almost 300 acres of this living history to travel back in time and feel the authentic vibes of 18th-century living.

In the rebuilt courts and the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, you can learn about the legal systems of the 18th century.

Or you can do a variety of activities instead.

For example, shop for dinnerware and jewelry from the Colonial era, eat in restaurants with decor from the 18th century, see horse-drawn carriage rides on the streets, and more.

Recommended Hotel: Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection

5. Jamestown

1368 Colonial Parkway Jamestown, VA 23081 (757) 898-2410

The historic Jamestown is home to the remains of the first English permanent settlement in North America.

Visit historic Jamestown, America’s first English colony, situated on the banks of the James River, by driving one hour and seven minutes.

You can see the 1607 Jamestown Fort excavations and other 400-year-old archeological finds at the Voorhees Archaearium’s archeology museum through tours.

In addition, you will get the chance to board the ships that played a crucial part in the colonization of Virginia’s first colonists.

If you want to see Jamestown’s rich history, Jamestown settlement is another must-visit spot in the area.

In a world-class living history museum, you can learn about the settlement’s rich history and way of life.

Recommended Hotel: Wedmore Place

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Washington DC

Related: Activities in Virginia Beach

6. Yorktown

Yorktown is the county seat of York County and one of the first eight shires established in colonial Virginia in 1682.

If you are looking for places to visit near Virginia beach, then traveling back in time by taking a 52-minute drive might be for you.

Fifty miles from Virginia Beach lies one of the most historical places in America.

Visit the ancient city of Yorktown to see its battlegrounds and 18th-century architecture.

You can take a stroll along the fishing pier, relax on the beaches, or meander through the historic alleyways to find boutiques that sell great art.

Or, you can also visit Yorktown’s American Revolution Museum to explore imitations of the Revolution-era farms and Continental army campsites.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Newport News Airport

7. Currituck Co.

Currituck County, NC (252) 453-3633

Formed in 1668, Currituck County is the northeasternmost county in the state of North Carolina.

Currituck County is a 53-minute drive away from Virginia Beach.

This location will demand your attention with its abundant agricultural products, picturesque historical sites, and stunning NC beaches.

It offers a variety of activities for discovering the historical places near Haywood Bell House, the magnificent Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and the Currituck County Library.

Make your trip unforgettable by participating in wild horse excursions, backcountry safari tours, and corolla jeep excursions.

Or, you can go to Corolla Adventure Park and learn about the area’s ecosystem at the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education.

Recommended Hotel: The Inn at Corolla Lighthouse

8. Smithfield

Smithfield, VA 23430 (757) 365-9508

Smithfield, a town in Isle of Wight County, is part of the South Hampton Roads subregion and has a population of 8,089.

If you are wondering what places to see near Virginia Beach, take a 53-minute drive to see a true gem for tourists.

This picturesque small town in Virginia will guarantee your unique experience, whether you are an enthusiast of art or history, a gourmet, or a lover of the countryside.

You can take a trip down Main Street to view the distinctive Gothic and Colonial buildings and their history.

Moreover, the city is the world’s ham and peanut capital, so try both when visiting.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Smithfield

Related: Weekend Getaways From Raleigh

9. Kilmarnock

Kilmarnock, VA 22482 (804) 435-1552

Kilmarnock, the biggest incorporated town in Lancaster County, serves as the commercial center of the Northern Neck.

With an hour and 43-minute drive, you can visit a serene location 91 miles away from Virginia Beach.

Despite being one of the eight little towns in Virginia’s River Realm, bustling Kilmarnock provides much-needed modern services and cozy settings.

For example, you can visit the Compass Entertainment Complex, the main attraction in the community.

Or have fun at the go-kart tracks, arcades, miniature golf courses, unique movie theaters, and other attractions.

Nearby, you may sample local wines at the most impressive wineries on the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, dine at delectable restaurants, and shop at opulent fashion boutiques.

Recommended Hotel: Back INN Time B&B

Related: Beaches Near Virginia Beach

10. Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge

316 Marsh Causeway Knotts Island, NC 27950 (252) 429 3100

Established in 1960, Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge provides a habitat for migratory waterfowl, especially the greater snow goose.

Enhance your Virginia Beach trips by taking a 43-minute drive to visit a wildlife refuge situated on Knotts Island in Currituck County’s northeastern region.

Numerous bird species, reptiles, amphibians, and many more unique and endangered animals that have adapted to the area can be found in Mackay.

Besides that, you can enjoy other activities at the Refuge, like crabbing, fishing, kayaking, hunting, and boating.

Moreover, photography enthusiasts can capture unique moments in the perfect setting that it provides.

For example, there are various lovely nature trails close by that are suitable for biking and hiking.

Recommended Hotel: The Sanctuary – Blue Suede Views Penthouse

11. Westmoreland State Park

145 Cliff Road Montross, VA 22520 (804) 493-8821

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Westmoreland is Virginia’s state park.

Westmoreland state park is a 2 hour and 23-minute drive from Virginia Beach.

With a total area of 1321 acres, this park is the perfect place to travel if you want to get close to nature.

You can do countless things, such as admiring the spectacular view of the Potomac River stretching far into the distance from the stunning Horsehead Cliffs.

Or explore the remnants of different marine organisms there for centuries as you stroll along a beach trail along the Potomac’s beaches.

On top of that, you can also rent a scenic cabin where you can enjoy boating, hiking, and fishing.

Recommended Hotel: Washington & Lee Motel

12. Monticello

931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway Charlottesville, VA 22902 (434) 9849-880

Monticello is the primary plantation of the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson.

If you are on a one day trip from Virginia Beach, we recommend taking a 2-hour and 47-minute drive to see one of the most impactful and historic places in Virginia.

When you visit Monticello, you’ll discover the plantation’s tragic past and how it shaped the country’s history.

In addition, you can find an extensive collection of quotes and fully verified papers written by Thomas Jefferson himself.

What’s more, you can learn about the founding father’s family history and letters.

Recommended Hotel: Omni Charlottesville Hotel

13. Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns 101 Cave Hill Road Luray, VA 22835 (540) 743-6551

Luray Caverns, formerly known as Luray Cave, is a cave just west of Luray, Virginia, that has attracted numerous visitors since its discovery in 1878.

If you are looking for things to do outside Virginia Beach , take a 3-hour and 46-minute drive to Luray Caverns.

Visit the ethereal rock formations and the stunning underground cave system.

Luray Caverns will take you to another world where the walls are full of mysteries of nature.

The tour’s corridors are entirely paved and well-lit, and you’ll pass through layers of folded rock, an optical illusion area, and a cavern room with a ten-story ceiling.

Furthermore, you peek at one of its famous rooms, the Geologist Hall of Fame.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Laurance

Related: Weekend Trips in Virginia

14. George Washington National Forest

Millboro, VA 24460 (540) 265-5100

Spanning 1.8 million acres, this national forest is set in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky, West Virginia, and Virginia.

Although it’s over 3 hours from Virginia Beach, this forest is worth a visit for families and adventure seekers.

In the mood for outdoorsy Virginia Beach day trips?

Let me guess.

You’re itching to hike scenic pathways, ride a horse, explore bike trails, and snap photos of stunning rivers and lakes.

Well, you can do that with a day trip to the verdant George Washington National Forest.

In summer, the forest also offers watersports, including boating, kayaking, and swimming.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Covington VA

15. The Poe Museum

1914 E Main Street Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 648-5523

The Poe Museum, also known as the Edgar Allan Poe Museum, honors American author Edgar Allan Poe and is situated in Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom district.

You can take an hour and 46-minute drive from Virginia Beach to get to one of the most exciting museums in Virginia.

The world’s most extensive collection of Poe items is in the Poe Museum in Richmond.

For example, inside, you can see Poe’s childhood bed, personal letters, and several articles of his clothing.

Additionally, you can view the famous Cornwell Daguerreotype or image of Poe.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Richmond Downtown

16. Shenandoah National Park And The Skyline Drive

17157 Skyline Dr Front Royal, VA 22630 (540) 999-3500

Shenandoah National Park is a park in Virginia featuring waterfalls, wetlands, and rocky peaks like Hawksbill and Old Rag mountains.

While the Skyline Drive winds you through the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia.

Located an hour and a 46-minute drive from Virginia Beach, this park has the most stunning scenery with waterfalls, mountains, and fields of wildflowers and grasses.

What’s more, you can stop at quaint Virginian little villages along Skyline Drive, take in the scenery from picturesque lookout points, and even go hiking.

You can also visit during peak season when the Fall foliage in Shenandoah is at its peak.

Recommended Hotel: The Mimslyn Inn

17. Busch Gardens

1 Busch Gardens Blvd Williamsburg, VA 23185 (757) 229-4386

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a 422-acre amusement park near Williamsburg in James City County, Virginia.

If you are looking for day trips from Virginia Beach for families, take an hour and a 3-minute drive to get to one of the best amusement parks in the state.

The Busch Gardens features a waterpark, a petting zoo, and multiple exciting rides.

Moreover, the park has a European theme, so you’ll experience wandering through charming European communities as you move from ride to ride.

This park also has something in store for adults.

Since Anheuser-Busch, the beer bottling company, owns this, you can buy the best alcohol in this park throughout the year.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express – Williamsburg Busch Gardens Area, an IHG Hotel

18. The Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Rdg Pkwy, VA (828) 670-1924

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a picturesque National Parkway and All-American Road in the United States.

If you are looking for scenic places near Virginia Beach, take a 3-hour ride to get to one of the most stunning roads in the country.

The Blue Ridge Parkway follows the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are part of the Appalachian Mountain range in the Appalachian Mountains.

You’ll find scenic overlooks, hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and more in the parkway.

So, don’t forget to bring your cameras and smartphones to make memories of a lifetime.

Recommended Hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Roanoke

19. Mill Mountain Star And Park

2000 J B Fishburn Pkwy Roanoke, VA 24013 (540) 853-2236

Constructed in 1949, The Roanoke Star, also known as the Mill Mountain Star, is the world’s largest freestanding illuminated artificial star in Roanoke, Virginia.

Mill Mountain Star and Park is located 4 hours and 26-minutes from Virginia Beach.

This famous attraction is a 90-foot star-shaped structure that lights up the whole mountainside.

Moreover, by hiking up to see the star, you can also gaze at the great city lights below.

Recommended Hotel: The Liberty Trust

20. Norfolk

Home to a massive naval base on Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk is a waterfront city in southeastern Virginia.

If you are on a one day trip from Virginia Beach, we recommend taking a 20-minute drive to Norfolk.

The city is full of countless possibilities just waiting for you to discover, from stunning animal parks and zoos to recognizable buildings and attractions.

For example, you can start by touring the Virginia Zoo and viewing animals, including bongos, bears, and others.

Next, visit the Chrysler Museum of Art to view various artistic creations, including glass art, and walk through Nauticus to learn about marine and naval history.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Norfolk The Main

21. Portsmouth

Located in southeast Virginia and across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk is the independent city of Portsmouth.

Portsmouth has adventures for all ages.

Pack your bags and take a quick 22-minute drive to Portsmouth, a free city in the Commonwealth of Virginia

Visit the renowned Chrysler Museum of Art to admire a collection of top-notch works of art, including contemporary designs, sculptures, and glass art.

Or, Learn about ship technology and naval history by stopping by the Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

Moreover, if you want your youngsters to have an educational experience, you can take them to the Children’s Museum of Virginia, where they teach interactive learning skills.

Recommended Hotel: Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection

22. Onancock

15 North Street Onancock, VA 23417 (757) 787‑3363

Coined the “gem of the Eastern Shore” by Captain John Smith, Onancock is a small town in Accomack County, Virginia.

Explore the natural mystics and have amazing adventures by taking a 1-hour and 29-minute drive to Onancock.

Travelers find this town a peaceful, charming place offering excellent restaurants, unique shops, and a love for nature and the arts.

Start your exploration with Turner Sculpture, where you may see several sculptures and other creative pieces.

Next, you can learn about the busy working environment of Onley Historic Train Station, one of Virginia’s oldest train stations.

And spend some time at the Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve, where people go camping, hiking, sightseeing, and hunting.

Recommended Hotel: The Charlotte Hotel & Restaurant

23. Chincoteague and Assateague Islands

3335 Main Street Chincoteague Island, VA 23336 (757) 336-6122

The Chincoteague and Assateague Islands are a gateway to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, featuring beaches and wild Chincoteague ponies.

If you are looking for places to see near Virginia Beach, we recommend taking a 2-hour and 2-minute drive to the stunning Chincoteague and Assateague Islands.

The Eastern shore of Virginia is a sight to behold, with its twisting canals, scenic beaches, and diverse animals.

For instance, in its natural setting, you can observe wildlife in the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Or, you can admire various birds on the central Atlantic Flyway.

To top it all off, you can find incredible things like oyster beds, flounders, and clam shoals around the lovely bays that surround the island.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Chincoteague Island Bayfront Resort

24. Richmond

Richmond is one of the oldest cities in America and is known to be the capital of Virginia.

If you are looking for day trips from Virginia Beach for couples, take an hour and 36-minute drive to Richmond.

From historical sites and lovely gardens to busy nightlife and wonderful culinary traditions, it’s simple to see why tourists enjoy this town so much.

Begin your adventure by exploring the charming Maymont and its gorgeous gardens and wildlife.

Or, you can admire different arts from all over the world at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

And travel back to the time of the Civil War at the American Civil War Museum – Historic Tredegar to learn more about its history.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Richmond Downtown

25. Outer Banks

Outer Banks, NC (877) 629-4386

The Outer Banks are barrier islands off the coast of Carolina, offering open-sea beaches, state parks, and shipwreck diving sites.

If you are looking for the best day trips from Virginia Beach, travel 2 hours and 26 minutes to explore the Outer Banks.

Discover the beautiful refuge areas and sanctuary spots to observe various birds and wildlife in their natural habitat.

Moreover, you can visit the Wild Horse Conservation Easement to see the locations where colonial Spanish Mustangs once roamed freely.

Recommended Hotel: Adel’s Place

Map of Day Trips Near Virginia Beach, VA

25 Best Day Trips from Virginia Beach, VA for 2024

• Cape Charles
• Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
• Great Dismal Swamp
• Colonial Williamsburg
• Currituck Co.
• Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Westmoreland State Park
• Luray Caverns
• George Washington National Forest
• The Poe Museum
• Shenandoah National Park And The Skyline Drive
• Busch Gardens
• The Blue Ridge Parkway
• Mill Mountain Star And Park
• Chincoteague and Assateague Islands
• Outer Banks

16 Best Day Trips From Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is one of the top vacation destinations in the commonwealth, but if you’re looking to venture beyond the beach, there are a number of major cities and attractions to explore within just a few hours’ drive. 

The list of possible day trips from Virginia Beach includes some of the most important historic sites in the country, plus incredible National Parks, charming coastal towns, amusement parks, museums, and much more. 

16 Best Day Trips from Virginia Beach

Map of the best day trips from virginia beach, va.

If you’re looking for inspiration for a memorable day trip from Virginia Beach, check out some top recommendations below!  

1. Williamsburg, Virginia

By Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Distance from Virginia Beach: 60 miles (1-hour drive)

Williamsburg, Virginia is a delightful day trip from Virginia Beach. Located just an hour away by car, you can easily explore Williamsburg in a day, although you may want to stay a full weekend to experience everything Williamsburg and the Historic Triangle of Virginia has to offer.

Whether you want to wander the historic streets of Colonial Williamsburg , get your adrenaline pumping at Busch Gardens , or make a splash at Water Country USA , there are so many fun things to do in Williamsburg, VA .

To experience the long history of Williamsburg, start your day by exploring Colonial Williamsburg, the largest open-air, living history museum in the world.

Although you could spend several days just in Colonial Williamsburg exploring its 301 acres and dozens of preserved historic buildings, if you only have one day, make sure you tour the Governor’s Palace, the Randolph House, and the Capitol Building , where so many pivotal moments in American history unfolded. 

You’ll feel transported back to the 1700s as you wander through the original colonial streets, interact with costumed historic interpreters, and witness historical reenactments. 

For those looking for adventure rather than history, Williamsburg is also home to Busch Gardens , one of the most beautiful theme parks in the world. 

With exhilarating roller coasters, water rides, live performances, and animal experiences, Busch Gardens is another place where you could spend a full day in Williamsburg. The European-themed park lets you wander from country to country as you navigate through its different themed areas.

🛏️ Interested in staying overnight in Williamsburg? Book a stay at The Colonial Houses – they have a pool and lots of charm! 🛏️

Learn about even more of the best things to do in Williamsburg , including the best restaurants ! 

2. Jamestown, Virginia

By Victoria of Southern Trippers

Distance from Virginia Beach: 65 miles (1-hour drive)

Easily one of the most interesting historical sites in Virginia , Jamestown is an island where Europeans first settled in North America back in 1607. Therefore, this is one of the oldest colonial-era sites on the continent. 

Jamestown also makes for a great day trip from Virginia Beach since it is only 65 miles, or an hour’s drive, away from this iconic oasis of sand. 

So, be sure to get up early and do an archeological-themed walking tour that departs from Tercentennial Monument.

Afterward, walk across the local footbridge and traverse Pitch and Tar Swamp so that you can look for amazing local wildlife like turtles and birds. 

You can even visit the Pocahontas Statue before learning about the life of the first enslaved woman of African descent at the Angela site. 

Next, wander around the New Towne . In fact, it’s much more than a fort since it is filled with a variety of historic structures that shed light on the complex economy of the Colonial settlers. 

Finally, head to the 17th-Century Church Tower since it dates back to 1680 and is considered to be the last surviving above-ground edifice from the Jamestown settlement. It is also a unique building that was used throughout the Civil War and played an important part in history even after Jamestown.”

3. Yorktown, Virginia 

By Dr. Rachel Catalano from TheRxForTravel.com

Distance from Virginia Beach: 50 miles (1-hour drive)

No trip to Virginia is complete unless you visit Virginia’s Historic Triangle. One of the three points of that triangle is the city of Yorktown (the other cities are Williamsburg and Jamestown). 

At about 50 miles from Virginia Beach and just a little over an hour’s drive, you can visit this riverside town, which is chocked full of history. 

One of the coolest things to do in Yorktown is to listen to the fife and drums play. This Revolutionary War musical parade is just a part of the U.S. history you’ll find here in Yorktown. 

The Yorktown Battlefield and American Revolution Museum at Yorktown are both nearby. You can visit, learn, and explore more about the pivotal history of the town.

If you want to relax and take it easy, then hop on board the Yorktown trolley . The trolley will take you past all of these locations and many more. 

With stops at historical landmarks, shops, restaurants, and the Yorktown waterfront, the Yorktown trolley is just another unique day trip that you can take easily from Virginia Beach.

4. Norfolk, Virginia 

Distance from Virginia Beach: 20 miles (20 minutes drive)

If you are looking for things to do in Virginia not far from Virginia Beach, then look no further than Norfolk. At just under 20 miles and about 20 minutes away, this waterfront town is one of the best short road trips from Virginia Beach and has so many things to do. 

Norfolk is home to the Virginia Zoo as well as the Battleship Wisconsin , which can be toured via Nauticus, a local maritime museum. 

You can also visit The MacArthur Memorial Museum, the Norfolk Botanical Garden, the Chrysler Museum of Art , or the hole-in-the-wall crafting store called The Mermaid Factory to make and take home your own keepsake. 

As Norfolk is home to an extremely large U.S. naval base, there are all different types of river and bay cruises that you can take from the Norfolk port. 

And at night, be sure to catch one of the many offerings by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Norfolk has a plethora of things to do for those young or young at heart. 

With beautiful views of the river and the Chesapeake Bay, be sure to make Norfolk one of your day trips from Virginia Beach.

Learn about some of the best restaurants in downtown Norfolk !

5. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Distance from Virginia Beach: 52 miles (1.25 hours drive)

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is another top day trip destination from Virginia Beach.

The vast refuge encompasses 113,000 acres and is located in both Virginia and North Carolina. It marks the site of what was once a swamp that covered over a million acres! 

The refuge is home to a wide range of animal species, including black bears, the beautiful yellow prothonotary warbler, bald eagles, snow geese, swans, red-cockaded woodpeckers, turtles, otters, and more. 

Depending on what time of year you visit, you’ll see different animals. You can look online to find out what animals will be most common before you plan your visit.  

The refuge includes 40 miles of trails and boardwalks for runners, hikers, and cyclists. Two trails include the 9-mile (out-and-back) Washington Ditch Trail and the 6-mile Pine-Pocosin-Loop at Jericho Lane trailhead. 

Fishing and boating are also popular activities. There are two lake-front piers and a boat ramp. 

When visiting, make sure to bring insect repellent to avoid bug bites! 

6. Cape Charles, Virginia 

By Ossama Alnuwaiser from Awesome Traveler

Distance from Virginia Beach: 44 miles (1-hour drive)

Many people know how to plan a road trip and want to travel around Virginia Beach. Cape Charles is another great day trip that you can take.

Located on the south of Virginia’s eastern shore, Cape Charles has a lot to offer for first-time visitors. 

One of the reasons why Cape Charles is worth a visit is that it provides visitors with a chill and relaxing experience compared to the busier areas around Virginia Beach. 

The town is located on the Chesapeake Bay, where you can relax and enjoy a number of water sports activities, including jet skiing, kayaking, surfing, boogie boarding, and water cycling. 

Kiptopeke State Park is another place to relax and enjoy nature. Hiking and bird watching are both popular in the park. The best time to visit Kiptopeke is during winter when the park is most vibrant with wildlife.

Another top attraction is the Cape Charles Lighthouse on Smith Island, which has the distinction of being the tallest lighthouse in Virginia. 

If you have time, be sure to check out the Cape Charles Museum . Established in 1996, the museum showcases the history of the eastern shore town. 

Every structure and exhibit has a story to tell at the museum, so make sure to visit this place to learn about the history that dates back to the 1800s.

Last but not least, you can hike the Savage Neck Dunes Natural Preserve . It is 298 acres in size and contains 3 hiking trails. While hiking, be on the lookout for tiger beetles and migratory birds that call the reserve home.

Learn about even more of the best things to do in Cape Charles ! 

7. Kilmarnock, Virginia

Distance from Virginia Beach: 113 miles (2 hours drive)

Kilmarnock, VA is a gem of a town located on the Northern Neck. 

Kilmarnock is home to several nature reserves, including the Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve . This preserve is located along the Chesapeake Bay and is home to the northeastern beach tiger beetle, as well as the nesting area for ospreys, bald eagles, and northern harriers. 

Belle Isle State Park is another great outdoor destination located just 7 miles outside of Kilmarnock. It features hiking and biking trails amidst 7 miles of shoreline, wetlands, farmlands, and coastal forests. The park also features a campground. 

The Kilmarnock Town Center Park is a great spot for families, children, and pets. There is a Splashpad Waterworks area with water fountains and a Riverplay water feature for kids. There is also a dog park for your furry friends. 

The park is also the home of the Kilmarnock Farmers Market , which take place on the 4th Saturday of each month from May to October. 

You can learn about even more of the best things to do in Kilmarnock, VA ! 

8. Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Distance from Virginia Beach: 105 miles (2 hours drive)

Chincoteague Island is the famous home of the Chincoteague Wild Ponies, and it’s just about 100 miles from Virginia Beach! This makes it one of the best day trip destinations to check out.  

One of the best activities on the island is to take a boat tour to not only get a unique glimpse of the wild ponies in their native habitat but also to see the other wildlife around the island. 

You may get a chance to see bald eagles and even dolphins! 

🛏️ Looking to stay overnight in Chincoteague? Book a stay at the Comfort Suites Chincoteague Island Bayfront Resort 🛏️

9. Richmond, Virginia 

By Francesca from Home Room Travel

Distance from Virginia Beach: 107 miles (2 hours drive)

Richmond , Virginia makes for a fun and exciting day trip from Virginia Beach. This capital city of Virginia was once the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War and therefore has many historical sites to visit. 

The trip from Richmond to Virginia Beach will take about 2 hours when you take I-64 W. If you only have one day in Richmond, you will want to focus on the historical sites if you are a history buff or check out the art and gardens if you are not. 

Richmond National Battlefield is one of the main sites to visit. This park commemorates 13 different sites across Richmond from the Civil War. 

Another can’t-miss historical site is St. John’s Church where Patrick Henry gave his “Give me Liberty or Give me Death” speech. 

Other historical sites include the White House of the Confederacy, the Virginia State Capitol Building, the Virginia Executive Mansion , the Maddie L. Walker National Historic Site, and the John Marshall House. 

For those more interested in art and gardens, you will not want to miss the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts . This museum is free and has a mixture of exhibits such as Tiffany Lamps, Faberge Eggs, and an Egyptian section. Then check out the Robinson House, Maymont, and Agecroft Hall and Gardens. 

The Mending Walls is another cool thing you may see while wandering Richmond. These murals are scattered across Richmond and are commissioned by the city. 

Some delicious places to eat include the Tobacco Club, Urban Farmhouse Market, and Tarrant’s Cafe. No matter what, there are a ton of fun-filled places to visit during a day trip to Richmond.  

10. Fredericksburg, Virginia

By Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA

Distance from Virginia Beach: 158 miles (2.5 hours drive)

If you’re a history buff, one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach that you shouldn’t skip is historic Fredericksburg.

Located about 158 miles from Virginia Beach, Fredericksburg is typically about a 2.5-hour drive up I-64W and I-95N. Because of its central location, this is also one of the best day trips from Washington DC for those visiting the nation’s capital. 

Once you’re there, park the car and enjoy walking around Downtown Fredericksburg . This 40-block area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its hundreds of 18th- and 19th-Century buildings.

You can stroll the downtown streets to enjoy shopping in antique or boutique shops, get a bite to eat at a variety of locally-owned restaurants, check out various art galleries, or just take in the atmosphere.

For Civil War history enthusiasts, walk up to Marye’s Heights where you’ll find what remains of the Fredericksburg Battlefield . While much of the terrain has been built over, the Sunken Road and Marye’s Heights are two iconic locations that help tell the tale of one of the worst Union defeats during the war.

Be sure to stop by the statue of the Angel of Marye’s Heights to pay tribute to a man who helped a great many wounded and dying soldiers that day.

Beyond the battlefield, you can continue your walking tour of the city by heading over to the pretty campus of the University of Mary Washington to admire its many Jeffersonian-style buildings of red brick with white columns. 

While on campus, you should also seek out the bust of James Farmer , a former professor at UMW and one of the Big Six Civil Rights leaders alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

After all this walking, you have to stop at Carl’s for ice cream before you head back to Virginia Beach — it’s a Fredericksburg institution!

Looking for more to do in Fredericksburg? Check out the best Ice Cream Shops (including Carl’s!) and Restaurants in Fredericksburg !  

11. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

By Melissa from New York Discovered  

Distance from Virginia Beach: 200 miles (3.5 hours drive)

Shenandoah National Park is one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach that offers stunning natural scenery, many hiking opportunities, the chance for wildlife sightings, waterfall viewing, and a relaxing escape. 

Shenandoah National Park extends across 197,411 acres in the state of Virginia through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The trip from Virginia Beach to Shenandoah’s Rockfish Gap entrance is just over a three-hour drive and just under 200 miles, making it easily reachable for a day trip. 

While you could spend days exploring the park, easy access to the park’s main features and stunning views makes it a fantastic option for a day trip.

Once you reach Shenandoah, there are tons of options for outdoor adventure and scenic drives. A drive along Skyline Drive is one of the best things to do in Shenandoah. 

The 105-mile Skyline Drive through the park takes a minimum of three hours to complete, so if planning a day visit you will need to add an additional three hours on your way back to Virginia Beach. 

A better option may be to drive from the Rockfish Gap Station to the Thornton Gap Station, which has a driving time of an hour and a half.

There are tons of overlooks that you can stop at with stunning views, so even if you are not a hiker you can still enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.

If you are a hiker, you will find many hikes for any skill level. The Frazier Discovery Trail and Blackrock Summit Trails are easy hikes that can be done on a day trip. 

From the Thornton Gap entrance, you can also take the short drive outside of Shenandoah National Park to Luray Caverns to enjoy a self-guided tour through columns of stalactites and stalagmites. 

So, whether you are an avid hiker or not, Shenandoah National Park will not disappoint!

🛏️ Staying Overnight in Shenandoah National Park? The Residence Inn Marriott Waynesboro in Waynesboro, VA is a great spot! It has a pool, fitness center, and full kitchen! 🛏️

Learn even more about Shenandoah National Park, and the other best National Parks in Virginia!

12. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia  

By Alyssa from An Apple a Plane  

Distance from Virginia Beach: 252 miles (4 hours drive)

Tucked 4 hours away from Virginia Beach sits a gem of many sorts: Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. But it’s only KIND of in West Virginia!

The Point at Harper’s Ferry is known as a triangle to view three states: Virginia, West Virginia, AND Maryland! It’s not every day you can hit a unique landmark like that on a day trip.

Aside from the fun facts, Harpers Ferry is surprisingly beautiful. Historical architecture is pleasant to admire on a stroll, or for longer stops at museums such as the John Brown Wax Museum . This is one of the most highly-rated museums in Harpers Ferry.

Surrounding all of this history is the Blue Ridge Mountains . Visitors can enjoy active hikes, especially the famous view from Maryland Heights Overlook . It’s crazy to know you are in such a historical town surrounded by a dramatic mountainous landscape.

Conveniently, the C&O Trail runs through Harpers Ferry to downtown D.C., so if you are looking to extend your day trip longer, this may be a unique option for you!

Parking lots fill quickly in Downtown Harpers Ferry so visitors may benefit from the shuttle service, included with the entrance fee per vehicle. The National Parks pass can alternatively be used (and I recommend it!! Bang for the buck.) Shuttles do not run 24 hours, so check the website in advance when planning your trip. Weekends at Harper’s Ferry draw high crowds.

Harpers Ferry is 252 miles from Virginia Beach and approximately 4 hours by car. Though it’s a little further away, it is one of the best weekend trips from Virginia Beach.  

🛏️ Looking to stay overnight in Harpers Ferry? Check out the Clarion Inn Harpers Ferry – it has an indoor pool, fitness center, and it’s pet-friendly)  🛏️

13. Outer Banks, North Carolina

By Lauren from Where the Wild Kids Wander

Distance from Virginia Beach: 95 miles (2 hours drive)

For a change of pace, the Outer Banks is a perfect day trip from Virginia Beach. It’s loaded with history, unique landscapes, and beautiful beaches. Not to mention wild horses! And it’s less than a two-hour drive, making it easy to visit some notable sites before you return to Virginia Beach.

As you drive down Croatan Highway, you’ll notice the giant sand dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park . This area is famous for flying kites, so bring one if you can. You can always climb to the top of the dunes to take in the gorgeous views of the bay and ocean.

History lovers will want to visit the Wright Brothers Memorial in Kill Devil Hills. It’s one of the most popular things to do in the Outer Banks . There, you’ll learn about the many trials and tribulations the brothers faced when creating the first airplane and can see where the first flights took place!

The Outer Banks is well known for its wild horses in Corolla . They are descendants of the Spanish Mustangs brought by the explorers over 500 years ago! Although it’s illegal to be within 50 feet of wild horses, several companies offer tours where you can take pictures of the horses while learning more about their history.

There are plenty of public beach access points with parking areas along Virginia Dare Trail if you’re interested in comparing Outer Banks beaches to Virginia Beach. You can even rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards or go parasailing.

🛏️ Staying Overnight in the Outer Banks? Book a stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Outer Banks/Corolla 🛏️

Learn even more about the best North Carolina Beaches Near Virginia ! 

14. Raleigh, North Carolina 

By Julie from More than Main Street

Distance from Virginia Beach: 200 miles (3.25 hours drive) 

Looking for a family-friendly destination that combines city energy with southern charm? Then plan a day trip south to North Carolina’s capital city: Raleigh, NC!

Whether you’re into history, culture, sports, or outdoor activities, Raleigh has something for everyone. 

Start your day exploring Downtown Raleigh . Check out the State Capital for some local history, the NC Museum of Natural Sciences, or the North Carolina Museum of History. 

Next up, spend some time on Fayetteville Street, Moore Square, or The City Market. And don’t forget to check out some of the amazing street art in the area as well.

Bringing the kids? Explore the interactive exhibits at the Marbles Kids Museum , enjoy a fun-filled day at Pullen Park , or explore the trails at William B. Umstead State Park . No doubt, anyone visiting Raleigh will enjoy the short and easy hike to the famous chainsaw-carved tree.

Hungry? Grab a bite to eat at one of the family-friendly restaurants in Raleigh . Our favorites are The Pit Authentic Barbecue and The State Farmers Market Restaurant. If you’re craving something sweet, grab a treat from Fresh Local Ice Cream or Two Roosters Ice Cream.

With its wide range of attractions, Raleigh is a perfect day trip from Virginia Beach for fun and food. In fact, I’d venture to say, you’ll likely want to spend more than just a day here.

🛏️ Staying Overnight in Raleigh, NC? Book a stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott – It has a full kitchen, fitness center, and it’s pet friendly!  🛏️

15. Rocky Mount, North Carolina

Distance from Virginia Beach: 139 miles (2.5 hours drive)

While you have probably driven by Rocky Mount a dozen times while traveling on Interstate 95 in North Carolina, it is well worth checking out. There are a ton of fun things to do in Rocky Mount from outdoor adventures to foodie fun and more!

Start your day with a little outdoor fun at Battle Park . Explore the paved trails along the Tar River, immerse yourself in nature, and be sure to check out the beautiful waterfall located right beside the parking area off of Falls Road. 

You can also check out the new 18-hole disc golf course, five miles of mountain biking trails, or venture further down the Rocky Mount Trail system to Sunset Park.

Bringing the kids? Be sure to visit the Imperial Centre for Arts & Sciences , which is home to a fantastic children’s museum. Kids will also love a visit to The Rocky Mount Event Center or Ultimate Backyard Warrior.

Finish your day at the Rocky Mount Mills . Choose from one of the three amazing local restaurants and don’t miss stopping at one of the four on-site small-batch breweries. 

Insider Tip: If you’re able to stay overnight, check out River & Twine , a collection of 21 different boutique tiny houses, for a completely unique experience!

Rocky Mount is a true North Carolina hidden gem and a perfect day trip from Virginia Beach.

🛏️ Staying Overnight in Rocky Mount, NC? Book a stay at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Rocky Mount – it has a kitchenette, pool, fitness center, and it’s pet-friendly.  🛏️

16. Beaufort, North Carolina

By Ashton from It’s AAAllgood

Distance from Virginia Beach: 215 miles (3.75 hours drive)

Beaufort, NC is a destination worth the short drive from Virginia Beach! Although it’s only 3 hours and 45 minutes south (215 miles), a visit to Beaufort is a charming coastal town that will make you feel like you’ve truly escaped! 

As the third oldest town in North Carolina, Beaufort has a rich history including early settlers, pirates, and time as a fishing town. The town has a well-preserved historic district with quaint streets that are perfect for an afternoon stroll. 

There are many beautifully restored homes and buildings that you can tour with the Beaufort Historic Society. A visit to the NC Maritime Museum is another great option that explores some of the unique shipbuilding and pirate history of the town’s maritime heritage, and best of all, it’s free!

Beaufort also has stunning natural coastal beauty. The town is situated on the waters of Taylors Creek , which feeds directly into the Atlantic Ocean. From downtown, there are breathtaking views of the barrier islands that help to protect the waterfront. 

If you’re lucky, you can even spot wild horses on the neighboring Carrot Island ! Beaufort also has easy access to the nearby beaches of the Crystal Coast, and many state and national wildlife refuges. 

Beaufort, NC also has superb dining options! There are numerous waterfront restaurants, lunch spots, and craft breweries, many with excellent seafood options! One of my favorite places to watch the sunset is on the rooftop deck of Moonrakers in the heart of downtown Beaufort, NC. 

When you’re visiting Beaufort be sure to check out this post with all of the hidden gems of Beaufort, NC that you won’t want to miss !  Whether you’re looking for a quick escape, a long weekend retreat or an adventure on the water, Beaufort, NC is the perfect trip!

🛏️ Looking to stay overnight in Beaufort, NC? Check out the Beaufort Hotel NC – it has beautiful water views, a pool, a fitness center, and it’s pet-friendly.  🛏️

Where to Stay in Virginia Beach 

If you’re looking for a place to stay on your next vacation in Virginia Beach, VA, then check out some of my top recommendations below!

Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Town Center

Hyatt Place has a great location near the boardwalk and beach, and it has great amenities like a pool and fitness center. Breakfast is also included.

Coastal Hotel & Suites Virginia Beach – Oceanfront

Coastal Hotel & Suites is right next to the boardwalk and ocean. Some of the top amenities include a swimming pool, hot tub, and a great breakfast.

FAQs About Virginia Beach

What towns are an hour away from virginia beach.

Some of the towns that are an hour or less away from Virginia Beach include Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, and Suffolk.

What towns are 30 minutes away from Virginia Beach?

Some of the towns that are 30 minutes away from Virginia Beach include Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Chesapeake, VA.

How many days do you need in Virginia Beach?

4 to 7 days is a good amount of time to spend in Virginia Beach. There are many restaurants, shops, and water activities around town.

Conclusion: 16 Best Day Trips From Virginia Beach

As you can see, there is a wide variety of places to visit just a few hours away from Virginia Beach! 

Whether you’re interested in exploring the Historic Triangle of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown; relaxing in Cape Charles, or venturing to North Carolina, there are plenty of great places to explore!

If you’re staying in Virginia Beach, check out these other top things to do!

Go Swimming with Dolphins in Virginia Beach

Visit the best coffee shops in Virginia Beach

Explore the best boat tours near Virginia Beach

Check out the top things to do in Virginia Beach in Winter

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Interesting Virginia Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns And More!)

July 30, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for interesting Virginia day trips? Then you’ve come to the right place! This list is full of some of the best day trips in Virginia. Virginia is a gorgeous Southern state that is full of fun and unique things to do. It is especially awesome if you are a history buff. So much of Virginia’s history is tied into the history of the forming of the United States of America and some of the country’s earliest presidents.

Even if American history isn’t really your thing, we guarantee there is something fun in Virginia for you to enjoy. Some of these day trips in Virginia are centered around its natural beauty, while others highlight the unique history of the state. We’ve also included some fun day trips in Virginia for families as well as fun day trips in Virginia for couples.

We’ve also made sure to include interesting and fun Virginia day trips for the history buffs, outdoor lovers, and thrill-seekers. Virginia truly does have something for everyone! So, let’s take a look at 15 interesting Virginia day trips!

Assateague Island National Seashore

For those looking for Virginia day trips that are fun for the whole family, consider taking a trip to Assateague Island National Seashore . Assateague Island is a portion of National Park that is in both Maryland and Virginia. If you want to make this an extended trip and go camping at Assateague, you’ll need to go to the Maryland portion of the park. Assateague Island is best known for its abundance of wild horses roaming the park.

However, if you are just going for a fun day on the National Seashore, you’ll find plenty to do in the Virginia portion of the National Park. If you are thinking of visiting during the summer months you can expect to see wild foals along with wild horses. You can also go swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. When you visit the seashore during the colder months, you’ll still be able to see wild horses, and you may even still be able to enjoy some watersports. There are also hiking and biking trails and you can of course walk along the seashore. It’s easily one of the best day trips in Virginia for families

Monticello is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg. It is also one of the best Virginia day trips for history buffs. For those that don’t know, Monticello was the primary home and plantation of Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was a founding father and also served as the third President of the United States. It is important to remember when visiting Monticello that it was a plantation and Jefferson did have enslaved peoples working on the property. Please be respectful of that history if you go to tour the home.

When you visit Monticello, you’ll find that they do not try to hide the plantation’s dark past. Instead, you will learn about slavery at the time and how Jefferson profited immensely from this dark practice. As you tour Monticello, you will be reminded that it was built on the backs of enslaved peoples.

This is set against the backdrop of learning about Jefferson and his family life while living in the home. It is often an eye-opening way to look at the history of one of the Founding Fathers. You’ll see how that history has shaped the United States of America as a whole. We guarantee you will leave Monticello having learned something new and impactful.

Luray Caverns

If you are looking for one of the best day trips from Richmond, head to Luray Caverns . The Luray Caverns have been a popular tourist attraction in Virginia since the cave system was found in 1878. Now, it is one of the most popular attractions in Virginia for those who want to walk down into the depths of Virginia’s underground cave systems. Because it is so popular, you’ll want to make sure you plan to get tickets ahead of time, or have a flexible schedule so you can get tickets for whatever time slots are still available the day of your visit.

The tickets range in price and depend on your age. The caverns also offer various discounts. Luray Caverns are the largest caverns in the Eastern United States and you’ll find some truly spectacular underground rock formations.

The walkways along the tour are all paved and lighted. You’ll walk through a cavern room with a ceiling that is ten stories high, optical illusion rooms, and layers of folded rock. It is called the Geologist Hall of Fame, and once you step foot in the caverns you’ll easily see why.

Colonial Williamsburg

One of the coolest historical places in Virginia is Colonial Williamsburg . It is also one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. When you need a break from the sandy shores, you can’t go wrong with a quick trip to Colonial Williamsburg. At Colonial Williamsburg, you’ll find the World’s Largest Living History Museum. As you walk all through the Colonial town you’ll find reenactors posing as people who would have originally lived there.

It is a full-scale working village with a blacksmith, potter, baker, brickmaker, farms, and other shops that would have been included in a typical Colonial town. At each one, you’ll find a skilled reenactor who will tell you about the process for creating their goods and wares during the Colonial period. There are also shops where you can purchase the products that are made right there in town. You’ll also find restaurants with delicious period-accurate food, guided walking tours, and even guided ghost tours. It’s one of the coolest places to visit in Virginia in one day and a really fun day trip from Virginia Beach.

The Poe Museum

Edgar Allan Poe lived in a few Southern cities and one of those is Richmond Virginia. In Richmond, you can learn more about Poe’s life in Virginia at The Poe Museum . It is where Poe started his literary career and he spent a lot of his life in Richmond writing. Although he moved to Baltimore at the end of his life before his mysterious death, Richmond is where he called home the longest.

The Richmond Poe Museum is one of many Poe Museums in the United States. What makes it different, and one of the most interesting Virginia day trips, is its collection. The Poe Museum in Richmond has the largest collection of Poe artifacts in the world. Inside you can see Poe’s childhood bed, several articles of his clothing, and personal letters. You can also see the famous image of Poe known as the Cornwell Daguerreotype. You can even see a lock of Poe’s hair! It is one of the best day trips from Richmond and is a really cool way to learn about one of America’s most famous authors.

Shenandoah National Park And The Skyline Drive

The Shenandoah National Park is one of the best day trips from Northern Virginia. You’ll also be close to Charlottesville, so it’s a great option for day trips from Charlottesville as well. It is one of Virginia’s most beautiful landscapes full of waterfalls, iconic mountains, and gorgeous fields of wildflowers and grasses. If you don’t have a lot of time on your day trip in Virginia, take Skyline Drive. The Skyline Drive takes you through Virginia’s section of the Appalachian Mountains through Shenandoah National Park and eventually meets the Blue Ridge Parkway.

As you travel on Skyline Drive you’ll be able to stop into cute Virginia small towns, admire the view at scenic overlooks, and even go hiking. It’s one of the best National Parks in Virginia. It easily welcomes millions of visitors all year to enjoy its stunning views and landscapes. One of the best times to go is during the Peak Season. This is when the Fall foliage in Shenandoah is at its peak. It’s a beautiful time to visit, but because of that, it can get very busy. So keep that in mind when you plan your Shenandoah National Park drive .

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is one of the best day trips from Richmond for families and thrill-seekers. For those that don’t know, Busch Gardens is a fun amusement park that is very popular. Busch Gardens is also a great option for day trips from Williamsburg. It is technically in Williamsburg, but it’s a bit outside of the city center.

There are a few Busch Gardens parks in the US, and the one in Virginia has a European theme. So as you walk from ride to ride you’ll feel like you’re walking through quaint European villages. A lot of the food vendors and souvenir shops are also full of European influences.

It is also one of the best day trips in Virginia for families. There are plenty of rides and cool things to do in the park that the kids will love. There is also a waterpark, a petting zoo, and throughout the park, during the day you’ll find animal exhibits. For the adults, there is plenty to do as well. Every year the amusement park hosts an epic Oktoberfest celebration.

It is also one of the few amusement parks in the US where you can buy alcohol throughout the day, all year. That’s because the park is owned by Anheuser-Busch, the beer bottling company. No matter your age, you’ll find that Busch Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Virginia in one day.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

If you are close to Charlottesville and looking for something fun to do, consider taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway . The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stretch of road that starts in Virginia and continues down into North Carolina. It follows the Appalachian Mountains, and in particular, the Blue Ridge Mountains within the Appalachian Mountain range. It’s one of the best day trips from Charlottesville if you want to see some spectacular views.

Depending on where you hop onto the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s also a great place to add to your list of day trips from Roanoke. All along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll find scenic overlooks , easy to difficult hiking trails , cascading waterfalls, and so much more. Depending on how much time you have, you can even venture into North Carolina and drive the parkway for a bit before heading back towards Richmond. As you drive the parkway you can stop in some cute small towns if you’re not up for a more adventurous day trip in Virginia.

Mill Mountain Star And Park

One of the most famous attractions in Roanoke is the Mill Mountain Star. The Mill Mountain Star can be found in Mill Mountain Park and is easily one of the best things to do in Roanoke when you visit. It also makes for one of the best day trips from Roanoke since it’s not necessarily right in the city center.

The Mill Mountain Star is a 90-foot star-shaped structure that lights up. It’s sort of like the Hollywood sign of Roanoke. It has been lighting up the mountainside since the 1950s, so it’s become a pretty iconic piece of Roanoke history. At the Star, you’ll get to see some beautiful views of the city of Roanoke.

Because the Mill Mountain Star is located in a public park, you’ll find other things to do there as well. At the park, you can go hiking, and you’ll need to do a little hiking if you want to get up close to the Star. But there is also a zoo, playground, Discovery Center, and a native wildflower garden. It is one of the best day trips in Virginia for families, but it’s also fun for all ages.

George Washington National Forest

The George Washington National Forest is one of the best National Parks in Virginia . It is also one of the best options for day trips from Richmond if you’re looking to escape the city. It’s a popular camping weekend getaway in Virginia , but it can easily be a fun day trip in Virginia as well. Because it is close to Richmond, it’s one of the more popular National Parks in Virginia, so keep that in mind when you are planning your day trip. Depending on the season, you may encounter more crowds.

The park includes miles of hiking and biking trails and there are also lakes and rivers. In the Summer months, you can enjoy watersports in the lakes in rivers, like swimming, kayaking, and boating. There are also certain trails where you can go horseback riding. One of the coolest things to do in the National Forest is going hang gliding. It’s the perfect activity for the thrill-seekers looking for just a little extra jolt of fun at the George Washington National Forest. Of course, the forest is gorgeous in the Fall and you can still enjoy a ton of activities in the forest in Winter and Spring.

Barboursville Ruins And Winery

Barboursville was once one of the finest are largest private residences in Virginia. But on Christmas Day in 1884, a devastating fire ripped through the home and almost completely destroyed it. Since that day in 1884, Barboursville has been preserved as ruins and is one of the best day trips from Charlottesville. What makes it so special is that is the only known structure in Orange County, where it is located, to be designed by Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States and a prominent member of Virginia society, both before and after his presidency.

The ruins are registered as National Historic Places and are actually one of the day trips in Virginia for couples. That is because the ruins are now home to one of the best wineries in Virginia. The Barboursville Winery was established on the ground in 1976 and has since become a well-recognized winery by wine connoisseurs. You’ll find the tasting room and visitors center just steps from the Barboursville Ruins.

On the grounds, you’ll also find a restaurant that is perfect for one of the prettiest romantic day trips in Virginia. You and your partner can enjoy a day exploring the historic grounds, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy a delicious meal. In the Summer, you can also catch ‘Shakespeare in the Ruins’. A local Shakespeare performing company uses the ruins of Barboursville as a stage. The play changes yearly, so you can come back for a different experience every year. The Barboursville ruins are definitely one of the best day trips in Virginia for Couples and easily one of the most romantic day trips in Virginia.

Historic Jamestown and Yorktown

On your list of day trips from Williamsburg , you absolutely need to add a trip to Historic Jamestown and Yorktown. You can drive about 30 minutes outside of Williamsburg and end up in Historic Jamestown or Yorktown, which is part of the ‘Historic Triangle’ in Virginia. Because they are all so close together, we suggest making this a historic tour day trip from Williamsburg. Start in Historic Jamestown, which was originally founded in 1607 by European immigrants.

Jamestown was the first permanent settlement in America for those making the journey from various countries in Europe. You’ll find a living history museum, similar to Colonial Williamsburg, but on a smaller scale. There is also a reconstructed Native American village alongside a Colonial fort, so you can see how Native Americans and European immigrants would have lived in the early 1600s in the area.

In Yorktown, there is another similar site. However, Yorktown wasn’t founded until 1691, over 80 years later. You’ll notice some similarities, but also plenty of differences as generations learned what did and didn’t work in the area. The town is probably best known as the site of the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. It’s where the American Revolution is said to have finally ended, with the surrender of English General Cornwallis. While you are in Yorktown, you can tour the battlefield as well as the American Revolution Museum. A journey to the two historic cities is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg.

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

The Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is actually in three states; West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia. Depending on what you’re interested in, the different states offer different experiences. The Maryland section is mainly hiking trails and scenic views along the Potomac River.

West Virginia and Virginia share the section of the park that has some really cool historic buildings. Harpers Ferry is truly one of the best small towns in West Virginia that you should explore.

Because of its location, it’s a great option for day trips from Northern Virginia.

Just like so many other places to visit in Virginia in one day, the National Historic Park is bursting with history. You’ll find a historic town with 19th-century buildings and see what it was like to live in a port town. There are living history events, local artisans, and more. You’ll also find hiking and biking trails as well as enjoy watersports like swimming, kayaking, and boating.

Keep in mind that when you are planning your trip, you may find that the trailheads or destinations you have in mind may be across the border in either Maryland or West Virginia. Either way, it’s still one of the most fun day trips in Virginia.

Make sure to check out our list of things to do in Harpers Ferry!

Mariners’ Museum And Park

If you’re looking for interesting day trips in Virginia for families, consider a day at the Mariners’ Museum and Park. It is close to Virginia Beach, so it’s one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. The Mariners’ Museum is in Newport News which is just about an hour inland, so you won’t have to travel too far to learn about Virginia’s interesting maritime history.

Throughout the museum, you’ll find exhibits that are interesting to both the youngest and oldest members of the family. On certain days of the week, kids can enjoy storytime with a maritime theme. There are also hands-on exhibits, crafts, and more that they can do while they are learning about Virginia’s maritime history.

There are also plenty of more in-depth exhibits for the older members of the family. One of the coolest areas of the museum is the gallery of Ship Models that show popular ship designs through the centuries. The Mariners Park is free to the public and is considered to be a beautiful woodland oasis. Inside the park, you can stroll along the popular Nolan Trail, admire nature, or stop for a picnic lunch at the Lions bridge. Mariners’ Museum and Park are absolutely one of the best day trips in Virginia for families!

Cape Henry Lighthouse

Thanks to popular novels, lighthouses have become an almost romantic iconic image along the sandy shores of any beach town. If you’re looking for some romantic day trips in Virginia, you and your partner can spend the day exploring the historic lighthouse at Cape Henry. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is within 15 minutes of Virginia Beach, which also makes it one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach for you and your partner to take.

At the Cape Henry Lighthouse, you can take a tour of the lighthouse, climb up to the top, and explore the grounds around the lighthouse as well. The lighthouse is one of the oldest in the country and was commissioned by George Washington with Alexander Hamilton overseeing its building. It was built close to where European immigrants first landed before establishing the Jamestown colony. If you are looking for day trips in Virginia for couples who like a little bit of history and the beach. It’s also one of the most interesting Virginia day trips.

With so much history and culture in the state, it is easy to make a list of fun places to visit in Virginia in one day. We hope you enjoyed this list of unique historic sites, hidden gems, and small towns that are spread throughout the beautiful state. You can’t go wrong taking a day to explore these amazing spots on your next Virginia day trip.

The 27 Best Things To Do In Virginia Beach, Virginia (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Wondering what activities and attractions you can’t miss in VB? Our guide to the best things to do in Virginia Beach is just what you need!

Virginia Beach is a charming local town on the East Coast of Virginia. This beautiful area combines rich wildlife and untouched coastal scenery with bustling boardwalks and world-class museums. There are so many amazing things to do in Virginia Beach that suit a range of interests and travel budgets!

Start at Virginia Beach’s Boardwalk, where you can admire the views of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Check out historic landmarks like the Cape Henry Lighthouse and First Landing State Park, or see seabirds in their natural habitat at a wildlife refuge.

For more urban excitement, head inland to Norfolk to attend the opera, tour a botanical garden, or go on a river cruise. No matter what your interests may be, Virginia Beach has it all!

Table of Contents

1. Stroll along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk

2. immerse yourself in nature at false cape state park, 3. glide along the elizabeth river on a norfolk cruise, 4. tour the virginia beach surf and rescue museum, 5. soak in the waterfront views at chesapeake bay beach, 6. visit the back bay national wildlife refuge, 7. bring the whole family to atlantic fun park, 8. learn, hike, and explore in first landing state park, 9. see the old cape henry lighthouse, 10. try local crafts at the atlantic wildfowl heritage museum, 11. explore norfolk, 12. check out the chesapeake bay bridge tunnel, 13. have a blast at ocean breeze waterpark, 14. find street art in the vibe creative district, 15. catch a performance at the harrison opera house, 16. visit the virginia aquarium & marine science center, 17. go whale watching in virginia beach, 18. take a day trip to williamsburg, 19. see historic aircraft at the military aviation museum, 20. stroll, sunbathe, and swim at the virginia beach oceanfront, 21. surround yourself with greenery at norfolk botanical garden, 22. have fun in the sun at grommet island park, 23. admire a diverse range of artworks at the virginia museum of contemporary art, 24. learn about animals and agriculture at hunt club farm, 25. escape the crowds at sandbridge beach, 26. enjoy the outdoors at mount trashmore park, 27. tour the ferry plantation house, best budget accommodation: surfbreak oceanfront hotel, best mid-range hotel: hilton garden inn virginia beach, best luxury accommodation: the historic cavalier hotel and beach club, 17 best things to do in virginia beach.

Virginia Beach’s wonders range from historic lighthouses and statues to pristine beaches, forests, and marshes. From seeing wildlife and natural wonders in Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to surfing or sunbathing along Virginia’s eastern shore, here are some of the top things to do in Virginia Beach!

Heading to the state capital next? Check out the best things to do in Richmond while you’re there.

Stretching along the Virginia Beach coastline, no visit to this beautiful place is complete without stopping at the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.

Extending for three miles, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a bustling hub of activity, with its wooden planks providing a scenic path for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Lined with an array of shops, restaurants, and attractions, the boardwalk is a focal point for both locals and tourists alike. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by street performers, live music, and the inviting aroma of freshly prepared seafood wafting through the air.

One of the standout features of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is its stunning ocean views. The wide sandy beaches on one side and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean on the other create a picturesque backdrop for strolls or simply soaking in the sun.

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is also home to the iconic King Neptune statue, a towering figure that adds a touch of grandeur to the landscape. Whether enjoying a casual bike ride, sampling local cuisine, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is one of the area’s top attractions.

Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay, False Cape State Park is a pristine and secluded natural oasis on the southern tip of Virginia Beach.

Spanning over 4,000 acres, False Cape State Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Accessible only by foot, bike, or boat, False Cape State Park is the perfect place to explore scenic hiking trails that wind through forests, sand dunes, and marshes.

False Cape State Park is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it serves as a crucial migratory stopover for a variety of bird species.

One of the distinguishing features of False Cape State Park is its commitment to preserving the natural environment. With no vehicular access, the park maintains an untouched wilderness where visitors can appreciate the unspoiled beauty of coastal ecosystems.

Primitive camping is available within the park, allowing travelers to experience the tranquil sounds of nature and the brilliance of starlit nights. False Cape State Park is one of the top Virginia Beach attractions for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Another one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach is go for a boat cruise! With so much water surrounding this beautiful area, travelers can experience a new way of sightseeing by getting out on a boat.

The best place to embark on a river cruise is the nearby city of Norfolk, Virginia. Located just 20 minutes inland from the heart of Virginia Beach, the Norfolk Harbour is home to scenic boat cruises that depart daily.

As the cruise gently glides along the water, passengers are treated to panoramic views of Norfolk’s waterfront, adorned with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic naval vessels. The Elizabeth River provides a unique perspective of Norfolk’s rich maritime heritage and allows you to appreciate the history and beauty of Virginia.

The Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum serves as a tribute to the rich maritime history and the heroic efforts of surf and rescue personnel in the region.

Housed in the historic DeWitt Cottage, the Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum explores the evolution of beach safety and the important role played by lifeguards, shipwreck rescuers, and the United States Life-Saving Service.

Exhibits showcase vintage rescue equipment, surfboards, and artifacts, providing visitors with a comprehensive view of the challenges and triumphs faced by those dedicated to preserving safety along the Virginia Beach coastline.

Through engaging displays and historical narratives, the museum not only educates visitors about the local maritime heritage but also honors the bravery and commitment of individuals who have safeguarded the shores for generations.

Visiting Chesapeake Bay Beach, situated along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, is another one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach. The soft sandy shores offer a perfect setting for relaxation and recreation, making it an ideal destination for beachgoers seeking a tranquil escape.

With its calm waters and scenic views of the expansive bay, Chesapeake Bay Beach is the perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities. The bay’s gentle waves create a family-friendly environment in Virginia Beach that suits people of all ages.

One of the distinctive features of Chesapeake Bay Beach is its stunning sunset views. Visitors can appreciate the colorful sunsets while strolling along the beach or from one of the waterfront restaurants.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Chesapeake Bay Beach area also offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring nearby parks, creating a well-rounded Virginia Beach experience for those seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway.

Read next: The Ultimate 7 Day West Virginia Road Trip Itinerary

Located on the coast of southeastern Virginia, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most incredible places in the area. Encompassing over 9,000 acres of diverse habitats, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a vital link in the migratory path of numerous bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge features marshes, woodlands, dunes, and open waters, providing a home for a variety of species, including waterfowl, songbirds, and elusive marshland creatures. Visitors can explore a network of trails that wind through the refuge, offering glimpses of the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this coastal ecosystem.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge provides a peaceful retreat for outdoor recreation and environmental education. The Little Island City Park, located within the refuge, is a lovely sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean that gives visitors a place to sunbathe, swim, and fish.

Educational programs and interpretive exhibits further enhance the visitor experience, shedding light on the importance of conservation and the delicate balance of ecosystems. Whether it’s birdwatching, hiking, or simply basking in the natural beauty, exploring Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach.

Atlantic Fun Park in Virginia Beach is a lively and family-friendly amusement park that embodies the spirit of summer fun along the Atlantic coast. With a prime oceanfront location, the park offers a mix of classic and thrilling rides that cater to visitors of all ages.

From the iconic Ferris wheel that provides breathtaking views of the coastline to the exhilarating roller coasters and traditional carousel, Atlantic Fun Park creates an atmosphere of excitement and enjoyment.

The park’s vibrant boardwalk setting adds to the overall experience, with the sounds of laughter, the scent of cotton candy, and the lively energy of visitors creating a festive ambiance in Virginia Beach.

Atlantic Fun Park also features a variety of games, arcades, and concessions, making it a comprehensive entertainment destination for families and groups. Whether it’s a classic game of Skee-Ball or trying your luck at winning a prize at one of the many carnival-style games, there’s something for everyone at this beachside amusement park.

Nestled along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park encompasses over 2,800 acres of diverse ecosystems, including beaches, sand dunes, marshes, and forests.

The park’s name pays homage to the arrival of English settlers led by Captain John Smith in 1607, marking their first landing in the New World. Visitors can explore a network of hiking and biking trails that wind through First Landing State Park, providing opportunities to observe the rich biodiversity of Virginia Beach.

The park’s freshwater ponds, cypress swamps, and salt marshes contribute to a varied and picturesque landscape, offering a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

First Landing State Park is not only a haven for hikers and nature seekers but also a popular destination for water-based activities. First Landing State Park features a wide sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay, providing a scenic backdrop for swimming, fishing, and beachcombing.

Additionally, First Landing State Park has plenty of cabins and campsites for those who want to stay longer and immerse themselves in the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.

The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, a historic maritime landmark located at Fort Story in Virginia Beach, stands as a testament to the early days of navigation along the Atlantic coast.

Constructed in 1792, this octagonal sandstone tower served as one of the first lighthouses authorized by the U.S. government in Virginia Beach. Its original purpose was to guide ships safely into the entrance of the Chesapeake Bay, warning them of the treacherous shoals and shallow waters along the Virginia Beach coastline.

The Cape Henry Lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation for over a century before it was replaced by a taller, cast-iron lighthouse nearby in 1881.

Today, the Cape Henry Lighthouse remains a captivating piece of American maritime history. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Cape Henry Lighthouse is part of Fort Story, a military installation, and its historical significance is complemented by the adjacent Cape Henry Memorial, which commemorates the arrival of the first English settlers to Virginia Beach in 1607.

The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse stands not only as a symbol of navigation but also as a tangible link to the nation’s early maritime heritage. It’s definitely one of Virginia Beach’s top landmarks!

Planning to visit West Virginia? Here are the top things to do in Harpers Ferry .

The Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum in Virginia Beach serves as a captivating tribute to the rich tradition of wildfowl carving and the coastal culture that has shaped Virginia Beach.

Housed in the historic de Witt Cottage, the museum showcases a diverse collection of decoys, artifacts, and artwork that highlight the intricate craftsmanship of local and nationally recognized carvers.

Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, which delve into the history of wildfowl hunting and the evolution of decoy carving as both an art form and a functional tool. The museum’s commitment to preserving and promoting this unique cultural heritage provides insight into the importance of wildfowl and the artistry associated with their representation.

In addition to its exhibits, the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum hosts workshops, demonstrations, and special exhibits that provide opportunities for visitors to engage with the artistic process. The charming setting of the de Witt Cottage, surrounded by lush gardens and located in the heart of the historic Virginia Beach Oceanfront, enhances the overall experience.

Connecting with the coastal traditions and artistic legacy at the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum is a fun way to spend a few hours while visiting Virginia Beach!

Exploring the nearby waterfront city of Norfolk is one of the best things to do while visiting Virginia Beach. Situated along the Elizabeth River, Norfolk has long been a crucial naval hub, and evidence of its maritime influence is visible in the world-class Norfolk Naval Station and the Nauticus Maritime Museum.

The city’s waterfront is a bustling area, featuring the iconic battleship USS Wisconsin, waterfront parks, and a dynamic array of dining and entertainment options. Norfolk’s Mermaid City nickname is a testament to its artistic spirit, with mermaid sculptures scattered throughout the city as part of public art initiatives.

The city’s downtown, particularly the Granby Street corridor, is a lively district with a mix of shops, theaters, and restaurants, creating a vibrant atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

Beyond its maritime charm, Norfolk boasts a diverse cultural scene and a strong sense of community. The Chrysler Museum of Art showcases an impressive collection spanning centuries, while the NEON District is a dynamic arts district featuring murals, galleries, and innovative public art installations.

The Virginia Zoo is another top attraction for the whole family. So if you’re craving the excitement of a bigger city while visiting Virginia Beach, head over to Norfolk and explore the museums, gardens, and landmarks.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is a remarkable engineering marvel that spans the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, connecting the Delmarva Peninsula with southeastern Virginia. Stretching for just over 17 miles, this complex infrastructure project includes a series of bridges, tunnels, and causeways that traverse both open water and man-made islands.

Completed in 1964, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel accommodates both vehicular and maritime traffic, with four man-made islands serving as resting points for travelers to admire the views.

As one of the Seven Engineering Wonders of the Modern World, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel offers not only a vital transportation link but also an unforgettable experience for those who traverse it. Traveling across the bridge tunnel provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding coastal landscape.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel incorporates fishing piers, scenic overlooks, and even a restaurant! Whether you’re just driving across it or coming to check out the views and attractions, seeing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel remains one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach.

A fun way to spend a day in Virginia Beach is by visiting the Ocean Breeze Waterpark . This Virginia Beach waterpark offers a thrilling array of water attractions, slides, and activities suitable for visitors of all ages.

From the heart-pounding excitement of water slides like the Hurricane, with its twisting and turning tunnels, to the more laid-back Lazy River and Wave Pool, Ocean Breeze Waterpark provides a refreshing escape from the Virginia Beach summer heat. The park’s extensive collection of water features also includes kiddie pools, splash pads, and a dedicated area for the little ones, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable experience for families.

Ocean Breeze Waterpark boasts a lively atmosphere with shaded cabanas, concession stands, and picnic areas for relaxation and refreshment. As the perfect place to bring kids on a summer day, this Virginia Beach waterpark has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Read next: The Best Day Trips From Washington DC

Situated in the heart of Virginia Beach, the Vibe Creative District is a dynamic area that celebrates creativity, innovation, and community spirit. This vibrant neighborhood in Virginia Beach emerged as a hub for local artists, entrepreneurs, and cultural enthusiasts, creating a lively space that fosters artistic expression.

The streets of the Vibe Creative District are adorned with colorful murals, street art, and eclectic storefronts, creating an inviting atmosphere that reflects the local commitment to embracing diversity in artistic styles and mediums.

Events, festivals, and gallery exhibitions pop up frequently throughout the year as well. The ViBe Mural Festival, for example, brings artists together to create large-scale murals that enhance the visual appeal of Virginia Beach. The district’s galleries, studios, and boutiques showcase the work of local artists, providing a platform for the community to engage with and support the thriving arts scene.

The Vibe Creative District has become a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and enriching cultural experience in Virginia Beach.

Try something new and attend an opera performance at the Harrison Opera House ! Located in Norfolk, this grand and historic venue is dedicated to the performing arts, particularly opera and classical music.

Built in 1943, this elegant building is part of the Virginia Arts Festival and has undergone several renovations to maintain its architectural splendor. The Harrison Opera House is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and intimate setting, making it a premier destination for opera enthusiasts and lovers of classical music.

With a seating capacity of around 1,632, the opera house provides an immersive and engaging experience, allowing audiences to connect intimately with the performers on stage.

Home to the Virginia Opera, the Harrison Opera House hosts a diverse range of productions, from classic operas to contemporary works, showcasing the artistic prowess of both established and emerging talents. Seeing a performance here is one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach.

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a premier destination that focuses on education, conservation, and entertainment. Opened in 1986, the Virginia Aquarium has since evolved into a comprehensive marine science center, featuring exhibits that showcase the rich marine life found in Virginia’s coastal waters and beyond.

The facility houses over 12,000 animals, including sea turtles, sharks, otters, and a variety of fish species, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the wonders of the underwater world.

One of the standout features of the Virginia Aquarium is the Stranding Response Program, which focuses on the rescue and rehabilitation of injured and stranded marine animals. The center’s commitment to environmental education is evident through interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and immersive experiences that highlight the importance of marine conservation.

With its engaging presentations, hands-on exhibits, and a 3D IMAX theater, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center offers a dynamic and educational experience for visitors of all ages in Virginia Beach. The insitution also fosters a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems and the need to protect and preserve the world’s oceans.

Whale watching in Virginia Beach offers a thrilling and immersive experience as visitors have the opportunity to witness the majestic migration of whales along the Atlantic Coast.

Typically occurring during the winter months, from December to March, the waters off Virginia Beach become a temporary home for humpback and fin whales as they journey south to warmer breeding grounds.

Numerous local whale watching charters operate during this season, providing travelers with the chance to witness these magnificent creatures up close. Knowledgeable guides on these excursions offer valuable insights into the whales’ behavior, migration patterns, and the marine ecosystem, enhancing the educational aspect of the experience.

The whale watching tours departing from Virginia Beach often venture into the Atlantic Ocean, where sightings of breaching whales, tail slaps, and spouting are common occurrences. There is no better way to see majestic whales in their natural habitat!

Heading south? Check out these fun things to do in Asheville, North Carolina .

History buffs should consider taking a day trip to Williamsburg while staying in Virginia Beach. At about an hour away, a day trip here will open your eyes to the rich colonial history and American heritage of Virginia.

As the heart of the Historic Triangle, which also includes Jamestown and Yorktown, Williamsburg played a central role in the establishment of the United States. The city is home to Colonial Williamsburg, a meticulously restored and interactive living history museum where visitors can immerse themselves in the daily life of a colonial town.

From costumed interpreters and historical reenactments to beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings, the atmosphere of Colonial Williamsburg transports visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the early days of American history.

Embark on a colonial history guided walking tour to learn about the most interesting facts and stories from a local guide!

Beyond its colonial charm, Williamsburg is full of fun things to do. Merchants Square, adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg, is a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Williamsburg seamlessly blends the past and the present, making it a fun place to visit near Virginia Beach.

The Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach is a remarkable institution that pays homage to the history of military aviation with a vast collection of meticulously restored vintage aircraft.

Home to one of the largest private collections of World War I and World War II aircraft in the world, the Military Aviation Museum is a must-see for history and engineering enthusiasts.

Visitors can marvel at the sight of iconic warplanes, including fighters, bombers, and reconnaissance aircraft, all of which played pivotal roles in the history of military aviation. The museum’s commitment to authenticity is evident in the meticulous restoration process, which often involves sourcing rare parts or rebuilding aircraft from the ground up to their original specifications.

You can also attend airshows and events at the Military Aviation Museum. During these events, the roar of vintage engines fills the air as these historic aircraft take to the skies, offering a living history lesson on the evolution of military aviation.

The Military Aviation Museum serves as a living tribute to the men and women who served in the armed forces, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the technological advancements and sacrifices made in the pursuit of air supremacy.

Of course one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach is spend time on the oceanfront. From the expansive sandy beaches, to the lively Virginia Beach Boardwalk, to the various recreational and entertainment options, you could spend your whole vacation in this one area!

Go surfing in the Atlantic, play beach volleyball and build sandcastles, or grab a bite at a waterfront eatery. Soak in the sunshine and breathe in the fresh, salty air. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is what draws visitors to this area in the first place, so make sure you have ample time to enjoy it!

A fun way to see a new perspective of the oceanfront is by joining a haunted ghost walking tour ! Meet your tour guide at the iconic King Neptune Statue by the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and learn about the pirates, witches, and sea creatures that supposedly haunt Virginia’s east coast.

Check out the largest botanical garden in Virginia at the stunning Norfolk Botanical Garden ! Established in 1938 in Norfolk, the garden has grown into a horticultural haven that showcases a wide variety of plant species, including azaleas, roses, camellias, and tropical plants.

The garden is particularly celebrated for its themed sections, such as the Bristow Butterfly Garden, the World of Wonders Children’s Garden, and the Renaissance Garden, each offering a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

With over 60 themed gardens, Norfolk Botanical Garden provides a serene and educational escape for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

One of the distinguishing features of the Norfolk Botanical Garden is its extensive network of waterways, including serene lakes and canals. Visitors can explore these water features by boat, providing a picturesque perspective of the lush greenery and vibrant blooms.

Additionally, the garden hosts seasonal events, educational programs, and workshops, further enhancing its role as a community resource for horticulture, conservation, and environmental education. Norfolk Botanical Garden offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and relaxation for visitors in the Virginia Beach area.

One of the best Virginia Beach attractions is Grommet Island Park . This one-of-a-kind park is specifically tailored to accommodate individuals with disabilities, offering wheelchair-accessible play structures, sensory-rich elements, and a universally designed environment.

The park’s centerpiece is a large, colorful play structure known as the Grommet Island Park Playground, where children of all abilities can engage in imaginative play and physical activity. The park’s commitment to inclusivity extends to its beachfront location, allowing everyone to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without barriers.

In addition to its accessible play structures, Grommet Island Park features a vibrant sea-themed mural, picnic areas, and shaded pavilions, creating a welcoming space for families and caregivers. This is a super important attraction in Virginia Beach because it prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility for all.

Heading north after Virginia? Check out these fun things to do in Philadelphia !

The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art is another one of the best Virginia Beach attractions.

Housed in a modern building with striking architecture, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art offers a vibrant space for both established and emerging artists to display their innovative works. The museum’s exhibitions cover a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and new media, reflecting the diversity and evolution of contemporary artistic practices.

Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art actively engages with the community through educational programs, workshops, and events that aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of contemporary art.

Whether through thought-provoking exhibitions or engaging educational initiatives, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art is a vital contributor to the cultural landscape of Virginia Beach, enriching the community with the latest trends and ideas in the world of contemporary artwork.

A unique way to spend a day in Virginia Beach is by mingling with animals at Hunt Club Farm . Perfect for animal lovers and people of all ages, Hunt Club Farm covers over 23 acres and hosts a number of fun activities and attractions.

The petting farm allows guests to interact with a variety of animals, from goats and sheep to rabbits and chickens, providing a hands-on and educational experience about farm life.

Beyond the barnyard, Hunt Club Farm features seasonal events, including the popular Harvest Fair and Halloween Festival, where families can enjoy hayrides, pumpkin picking, and a variety of festive activities.

Hunt Club Farm boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, a butterfly house, and a plant nursery. The farm also hosts educational programs and field trips, offering a unique opportunity for school groups and organizations to learn about agriculture, horticulture, and animal husbandry.

With its commitment to providing a wholesome and entertaining environment, Hunt Club Farm has become a cherished destination in the Virginia Beach community.

Beach lovers have to add Sandbridge Beach to their list of the best things to do in Virginia Beach! Stretching for over five miles, this pristine beach is characterized by its natural beauty, with expansive dunes, uncrowded shores, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Sandbridge Beach has lots of vacation rentals, beachfront cottages, and stunning waterfront homes that provide a more relaxing alternative to the busy Oceanfront of Virginia Beach.

The beach is bordered by the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, providing a scenic backdrop and opportunities for wildlife observation. Sandbridge Beach offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in the nearby Back Bay or the Atlantic Ocean.

The absence of commercial development contributes to the area’s natural charm, making Sandbridge Beach a favorite among nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a serene escape along Virginia’s coastline.

Mount Trashmore Park is a unique and innovative recreational space that has transformed an old landfill into a vibrant and eco-friendly community hub. Covering over 165 acres, the park is characterized by its distinctive 60-foot-high mound, which was created by compacting layers of solid waste and covering it with clean soil.

This reclaimed site has become a popular destination for outdoor activities, featuring expansive green spaces, walking trails, and playgrounds. The park’s centerpiece is the scenic Lake Trashmore, which provides a serene backdrop for picnics, fishing, and paddle boating, offering a peaceful retreat in the midst of urban surroundings.

Mount Trashmore Park is designed for active recreation, with amenities such as basketball and volleyball courts, a skate park, and an extensive playground for children. The park’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly features, including recycling stations and initiatives to promote environmental awareness.

The park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from concerts and festivals to fitness programs, fostering a sense of community engagement and enjoyment. Mount Trashmore Park showcases impressive urban planning and is one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach.

Read next: The Perfect 3 Days In Washington DC Itinerary

Another one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach is check out the Ferry Plantation House , a historic gem that traces its origins back to the 18th century. Originally constructed in 1830, the plantation house served as the residence for the brickyard owner, Thomas Williamson.

The name “Ferry Plantation” reflects the property’s historical use as a ferry crossing point on the Lynnhaven River. The house has witnessed centuries of change, including its role as a Confederate headquarters during the Civil War and later as a schoolhouse.

Today, the Ferry Plantation House stands as one of the few surviving examples of colonial and antebellum architecture in the region, offering visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

Guided tours provide insight into the house’s storied past, sharing tales of its former inhabitants and the events that shaped the region. The Ferry Plantation House is like a Virginia living museum that invites visitors to explore the layers of history woven into its walls.

Where To Stay in Virginia Beach, VA

Now that you know all the top Virginia Beach attractions, you’ll need a place to stay. Luckily there are some great accommodation options for your Virginia Beach vacation that will suit all types of travel budgets!

It’s rare to find a budget hotel room for $100 USD per night that’s right on the beach! But Surfbreak Oceanfront Hotel on Virginia Beach is just that. If you’re looking for a humble and cheap place to stay in Virginia Beach that’s within walking distance from the ocean, this is the perfect place!

Located on Atlantic Avenue, this hotel has rooms with balconies and ocean views, a 24/7 help desk, air-conditioning, a swimming pool, and more. From the hotel, you can walk to the beach, the boardwalk, and local restaurants and shops.

The Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront is one of Virginia Beach’s best waterfront hotels. Also located on Atlantic Avenue, all of the best Virginia Beach attractions are nearby.

Aside from the excellent location, the Hilton has cozy rooms, a fitness center, a swimming pool, on-site parking, and incredible service. For those who want a comfortable, upscale stay in Virginia Beach that won’t break the bank, this is a great option.

For the ultimate luxury stay in Virginia Beach, book the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club . Centrally located on Atlantic Avenue, this 4-star hotel has free bikes, a pool and fitness center, a business center, and 24/7 service.

This exclusive hotel has historic architecture and furnishings so you really feel like you’re staying somewhere special. Relax at the pool, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and set yourself up for success while you explore Virginia Beach!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate Las Vegas to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Guide)

The Perfect 3 Days In Los Angeles Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

25 best things to do in arizona (2024 guide), the 21 best things to do in phoenix, arizona (2024 guide), 15 best places to visit in hawaii (2024 guide), 16 best things to do in greenville, south carolina (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Best Day Trips From Virginia Beach To Take This Summer

Virginia Beach beckons with a wide array of experiences that cater to beach lovers, food enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers. With its unique blend of stunning landscapes and urban vibrancy, a visit here can range from a relaxing day on the shore to an exciting night in the town. Whether you're planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, Virginia Beach offers something special that stays with you long after you leave. So why wait? Pack your bags, and explore the unforgettable allure of Virginia Beach.

Cape Charles

On the Eastern Shore of Virginia, Cape Charles offers visitors mile-long public beaches perfect for a day in the sun. The city welcomes visitors to explore with views from the marina, learn about the town at the museum, or enjoy the day observing local wildlife.

For a day with nature, Kiptopeke State Park is an ideal place for birdwatching. Recreational activities in the park include hiking the upland Baywoods Trail and the southern beach trail. The trails connect by boardwalks allowing visitors to explore Kiptopeke’s dune formation. Kiptopeke’s northern swim beach invites hikers to cool off with a swim in the Chesapeake Bay.

For a bit of local history, the Cape Charles Museum showcases history through indoor and outdoor exhibits. Visitors to the museum delve into the fascinating history of steamships, ferries, barges, and locomotives. 

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy a light hike through the Savage Neck Dunes Natural Preserve. The preserve is home to 298 acres and contains three hiking trails. The Beach Trail leads hikers to a sandy beach.

The Field Loop and the Woodland Loop trails are shorter, leading through woodland paths. Along trails, hikers may spy tiger beetles, migratory birds, and turtles that call the reserve home.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

An abundant and rich biodiversity landscape shapes the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

Located in the southeastern corner of the City of Virginia Beach, the refuge is home to diverse habitats, including beachfront, freshwater marsh, dunes, and upland forests. These habitats are home to multiple species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and fish.

During the Summer, popular outdoor recreation activities at the refuge include freshwater fishing, surf fishing, wildlife photography, and wildlife observation. Visitors can enjoy hiking or biking through trails along Back Bay, managed wetlands, or the beach. Canoes and kayaks are also accessible for discovering the refuge from the water. 

Also home to False Cape State Park, the refuge invites visitors to observe local mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds in their natural habitats. For a tour, the Blue Goose Tram is a ranger-led program taking participants on a ride through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park. Rangers discuss wildlife, history, and the management of the two areas.

The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers Summer programs, guided art workshops, and wildlife adventures for young children. Two such programs are The Struggles in the Sand program, teaching about the struggles of baby turtles, and the 1,000 Mile Journey educating about bird migrations.

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Spanning over a million acres between Virginia and North Carolina , the Great Dismal Swamp is anything but dismal. Although the name suggests a dreary place, the Great Dismal Swamp is perfect for admiring untouched wilderness.

The refuge includes miles of trails and boardwalks for runners, hikers, and cyclists. Trails provide opportunities to observe unique wildlife, such as black bears, bald eagles, swans, woodpeckers, turtles, and otters.

The refuge is a bird watcher's paradise with quieter trails along the Jericho Lane entrance or the Washington Ditch entrance to observe waterfowl and songbirds. The Black Bear Trail, a rustic 3-mile footpath at the Portsmouth Ditch entrance, is another option for birdwatching off the beaten path.

For a self-guided drivable tour, the Lake Drummond Wildlife Drive is open every day and features three boardwalks along the way. This route provides access to the lake for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Guided kayaking and paddling tours along Lake Drummond welcome visitors to explore the stunning freshwater lake.

Colonial Williamsburg

A visit to Colonial Williamsburg will transport visitors to the 1700s to a time before America's independence. Visitors can wander through original colonial streets, witness historical reenactments, and interact with costumed interpreters.

The historical sites of Colonial Williamsburg include a visit to the Governor's Palace, where visitors walk through the grandeur of royal authority in Virginia before its collapse in the Revolution.

The Raleigh Tavern, Capitol, and Public Armoury welcome visitors to witness historical reenactments and interact with costumed historic interpreters of 18th-century life before the Revolutionary War.

The James Getty House invites visitors to participate in the daily activities of the tradesman home of the Geddys. 

Colonial Williamsburg is home to a community of craftsmanship where visitors can see firsthand how products are made, such as finished work for buildings and stringed musical instruments.

When hunger strikes, dining options range from historic taverns and casual dining. Cafes and bakeries provide fast food options for those looking for a quick meal.

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a 422-acre amusement park. Near Williamsburg in James City County, Virginia, Busch Gardens is a thrilling fun-filled day trip from Virginia Beach.

The amusement park has a European theme featuring a waterpark, a petting zoo, and many exhilarating rides.

Visitors to Busch Gardens can enjoy world-class entertainment. Live shows for all ages include award-winning productions and interactive, kid-friendly shows.

Animal lovers must visit the Clydesdale horses and Scottish Highland cattle at Highland Stables. Afterward, delve into the wonder of the park's feathered friends at Lorikeet Glen.

On sweltering hot Summer days, Water Park USA welcomes patrons to swim, slide, shop, and dine. H2O UFO and Cow-A-Bunga are child-friendly spaces to splash through interactive water features. For water thrills, Colossal Curl and Vanish Point are epic mega slides for the brave. The water park also features medium thrill slides like Big Daddy Falls, a white water rafting adventure ride.

Warm Summers nights at Busch Gardens welcome parkgoers to enjoy The Summer Event Series. The evening events include concerts, fireworks, and free beer for adults! Delicious Mexican barbeque pork, carne asada street tacos, strawberry torte cake, or funnel cake topped with fresh fruit are easy to consume while strolling through the park. 

Currituck County

South of Virginia Beach is Currituck County. Visitors to Currituck County will have many options for exploration.

Water lovers can surf, paddle board, parasail, kiteboard, jet ski, and kayak through the Currituck Sound for a coastal adventure. Rental facilities offer tours, classes, and onsite rental equipment. In addition to water sports, the beaches of Corolla and Carova provide 20 miles of sandy beaches. Visitors can stroll while shelling or enjoy the calm with a good book. 

Corolla and Carvoa Beaches are a wildlife enthusiast's dream. Many tour companies offer rides along the beaches to observe the Corolla Wild Horses. Tour guides provide opportunities to take perfect pictures while supplying a history lesson about the horses and the area.

To continue education about local wildlife and history, the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education welcomes visitors to explore indoor and outdoor attractions. Exhibits include a decoy collection, an auditorium showing a film about the landscape, and a collection of interactive displays.

After visiting the center, the historic red-brick Currituck Beach Lighthouse invites visitors to climb spiral metal stairs for a stunning view. The lighthouse also contains a museum shop stocked with lighthouse-related memorabilia.

The town of Smithfield is a gem for locals and tourists nestled in the Isle of Wight County. Southern hospitality welcomes visitors to spend the day mulling through American history.

Architecture in Smithfield takes visitors on a trip through history with homes in the Colonial, Victorian, Federal, and Gothic styles exuding the charm of former eras. Maps for self-guided walking tours of the historic district are available at the Visitor Center.

While walking, visitors are greeted with a collection of bronze statues by sculptor George Lundeen, adding to the cultural ambiance. In addition, eight life-sized statues of market hogs, beautifully painted by local artists, reflect history, culture, and recreation. 

Fort Boykin is a well-preserved example of Civil War military architecture overlooking the James River . Visitors venture inside the fort on a self-guided tour to learn about the fort’s contributions during the Civil War. Visitors can also enjoy the surrounding natural habitat and local beach access. 

To conclude a day of historical adventures, a glorious selection of restaurants and bakeries await weary wanderers. Foodies will enjoy wineries, breweries, grills, and cafes for flavorful cuisine. 

Norfolk is a short 20-minute drive from Virginia Beach. Home to a colossal naval base, the waterfront city offers Summer festivals bursting with joy and fun in the sun.

June starts festival season with Harborfest, featuring the Parade of Sail, outdoor vendors, live music, food, and a phenomenal fireworks display on the waterfront. Juneteenth in the Park, Pridefest, and the Latino Music Festival welcome visitors to celebrate culture and diversity with good food and music. 

In August, the Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival invites music lovers to lay out a blanket and indulge in the sounds of talented musicians performing smooth Jazz and R&B. The festival marketplace vendors provide snacks, drinks, and shopping.

In addition to festivals, Norfolk museums attract museum-goers to observe history and art. A visit to the MacArthur Memorial Museum or Battleship Wisconsin invites visitors to walk through military history. A visit to The Chrysler Museum of Art welcomes art aficionados to contemplate modern exhibitions. 

For nature enthusiasts, the Norfolk Botanical Garden is 175 acres of biodiversity and a wonderful place to explore plant collections. Animal lovers will delight in a visit to the Virginia Zoo with opportunities to meet with a keeper or encounter animal ambassadors up close!

Virginia Beach

Life in Virginia Beach is brimming with opportunities to experience the surrounding natural beauty. Family-friendly attractions, a bustling culinary scene, local farmlands, and sandy beaches provide the perfect atmosphere for a vivacious vacation.

The Pungo Agricultural District is home to acres of multi-generational farmland. In Summer, visitors can grab a bucket and pick strawberries, blueberries, and assorted vegetables. After picking fruit, visit The Bee & Biscuit, a charming cottage restaurant serving breakfast all day.

For water adventures, boat tours to see dolphins and whales are available with Rudee Tours. The company also offers a two-hour paddle board tour. While coasting along the Rudee Inlet waterway, paddle boarders have opportunities to see dolphins, bald eagles, seals, and river otters. 

Back on land, Let's Roam offers adventurers the freedom to explore Virginia Beach through a scavenger hunt! The hunt takes participants around the Beach Boardwalk and surrounding streets to search for iconic buildings, sculptures, and cultural delights.

For a classic beach experience, a stroll along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk at Oceanfront is ideal. Outdoor restaurants, vendors, and nautical sculptures line the boardwalk and side streets leading to Atlantic Avenue.

For the perfect photo, visit King Neptune, a massive bronze statue stationed at the gateway to Neptune Festival Park.

Embark on a Virginia Beach Adventure

Virginia Beach beckons with a wide array of experiences that cater to beach lovers, food enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers. With its unique blend of stunning landscapes and urban vibrancy, a visit here can range from a relaxing day on the shore to an exciting night in the town. Whether you're planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, Virginia Beach offers something special that stays with you long after you leave.

More in Places

9 Best Road Trips to Take in Michigan

The Best Small Towns in Wisconsin to Chill Out In 2024

9 Stunning Towns to Visit in New York

7 Stunning Towns To Visit In Washington

7 Towns in Massachusetts With Thriving Local Businesses

6 Coziest Towns To Visit In Southern California

9 of the Most Walkable Towns in The Adirondack Mountains

6 of the Most Walkable Towns on the Pacific Coast

• North America
• Best Day Trips Virginia Beach...

The Best Day Trips from Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach is part of a distinguished network of cities that make up the “birthplace of America” or “America’s first region.” Over 400 years ago, English explorers left Great Britain on three ships and eventually landed at what is today known as Coastal Virginia or Hampton Roads. Virginia Beach serves as a spoke and hub for neighboring towns, and we have listed seven you can’t miss during your stay.

Located 20 miles (32 kilometers) west of Virginia Beach is Norfolk, the cultural hub of the region. Spend the day exploring the NEON district , an acronym for New Energy of Norfolk, where you’ll find the nationally renowned Chrysler Museum of Art and Glass Studio . The Chrysler Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient and contemporary art, including one of the largest permanent displays of glass in the world, with more than 10,000 glass objects spanning 3,000 years. Adjacent to the museum is the glass studio , an educational facility where visitors can learn about the art of glassblowing. Sign up for a class and learn to make a paperweight, Christmas ornament, terrarium and more.

Colonial Williamsburg

Williamsburg , the world’s largest living history museum, is home to over 40 historic sites, including four taverns, a blacksmith shop, church, apothecary, bindery, colonial garden, courthouse, the Governor’s palace, and more. Take the day to explore the 18th-century city and watch military reenactments, practice rolling a hoop on the palace green or try a Welsh Rarebit from Josiah Chowning’s Tavern.

Just 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of Colonial Williamsburg and 60 miles (97 kilometers) north of Virginia Beach is Jamestown , the first permanent English settlement in America. See remains of 18th-century buildings, an active archaeological dig, artifacts from the region’s first settlers, and walk through recreations of a 1610s fort and Powhatan Indian village. Be sure to include a stop by the water’s edge where you’ll see replicas of the three ships that brought settlers to Virginia from England: the Susan Constant, the Godspeed, and Discovery.

Outer Banks

Spend the day exploring lighthouses, humongous sand dunes and pristine beaches on the barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. A quick hour and a half trip from Virginia Beach, the Outer Banks is home to the Wright Brothers Memorial , which commemorates the first successful, sustained, powered flight in the United States. A few miles down the road is Jockey’s Ridge State Park , the tallest natural sand dune system on the eastern seaboard of the United States. Climb to the top where you’ll have stunning, 360-degree views from the Atlantic Ocean to Roanoke Sound. Fly a kite, take a hang gliding lesson or sandboard down the smooth, granular dunes.End the day with an evening performance of The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama , the story of Sir Walter Raleigh’s attempt at establishing the first English settlement in America in 1587.

Just across the river from Norfolk is the historic town of Portsmouth. Park your car in Norfolk and take the paddle wheel ferry across the Elizabeth River to Portsmouth’s Old Towne Historic District. Stroll along the district’s herringbone brick sidewalks and see one of the largest collections of historically significant homes on the east coast. Other points of interest include the Children’s Museum of Virginia , Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum , and The Bier Garden .

Great Dismal Swamp Trail

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is an enormous, marshy habitat that covers large portions of southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. The 8.3-mile (13.4-kilometer) trail was built on a former state highway, and it is now open to pedestrian walkers, runners, bicyclists, and horse owners. Maple, cypress, pine and tupelo trees line the trail, and you might catch a glimpse of an otter, weasel or even a bobcat during your exploration. Are you looking for more adventure? Rent a kayak and paddle through the swamp!

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,656 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Hop in the car and take a drive over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (one of the seven engineering wonders of the modern world) to Onancock , located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. This sleepy town with a population of just over 1,000 makes for a perfect day trip. You’ll find folk artists, craftsmen, painters, and sculptors selling their crafts. An international film festival takes place annually, and a trip to Corner Bakery for a donut is mandatory. Are you looking for a water activity? Sign up for a kayaking trip to a local vineyard.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Places to Stay

The best hotels and b&bs to book near the river house, virginia.

The Best Hotels and B&Bs to Book Near Kings Dominion, Virginia

The Best Hotels and B&Bs to Book Near Rockland Historic House, Virginia

The Best Hotels to Book Near Paint Lick Mountain, Virginia

The Best Hotels to Book Near Natural Bridge, Virginia

The Best Spa Hotels and Retreats to Book in Virginia

The Best Hotels to Book in Virginia

The Best Hotels and B&Bs to Book Near Mountain View, Virginia

The Best Hotels and B&Bs to Book Near Mount Zion Historic House, Virginia

The Best Cabins to Rent in Virginia

The Best Vacation Rentals to Book in Virginia, USA

The Best Bed and Breakfasts to Book in Virginia

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1833625
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

The Purposely Lost

• Get In Touch
• FREE Travel Planner
• Shop My Favorites

Find Lyndsay's Favorites

History Travel + Local Experiences

June 21, 2023 By Lyndsay

13+ Easy Day Trips from Williamsburg, Virginia

• 1.1 1. Jamestown, Virginia
• 1.2 2. Yorktown, Virginia
• 1.3 3. Newport News, Virginia
• 1.4 4. Richmond, Virginia
• 1.5 5. Norfolk, Virginia
• 1.6 6. Virginia Beach, Virginia
• 1.7 7. Charlottesville, Virginia
• 1.8 8. Winchester, Virginia
• 2.1 9. Georgetown, D.C.
• 2.2 10. Annapolis, Maryland
• 2.3 11. Raleigh, North Carolina
• 2.4 12. Baltimore, Maryland
• 2.5 13. Ocean City, Maryland
• 3.1 How many days should you spend in Williamsburg?
• 3.2 What is close to Williamsburg, VA?
• 3.3 How far apart are Williamsburg and Jamestown?
• 4 Top Day Trips from Williamsburg: Wrap-Up

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

Are you looking for the best day trips from Williamsburg, VA?

Williamsburg is filled with endless opportunities to learn more about America’s colonial history without leaving town. 

You can visit Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum with historic buildings and interactive exhibits where you can watch authentic colonial life.

Walk around the College of William & Mary campus, one of the oldest colleges in the United States. 

Spend a few hours playing at the city’s amusement parks, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, and Water Country USA, the state’s largest water park.

However, even though this town has so much to offer, there are so many cool towns to discover and explore within just a short drive of Williamsburg. 

Grab your Travel Planner

Planning your next adventure can become overwhelming. Stay organized with this free, printable travel planner!

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

The Best Day Trips from Williamsburg, VA

1. jamestown, virginia.

One of the best day trips from Williamsburg is heading over to Jamestown. Along with Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown, these three sites make up the Historic Triangle of Virginia.

This is a popular place to visit for history buffs and those looking to learn more about America’s colonial roots.

As the site of the first permanent English settlement in North America,  Historic Jamestowne  offers a glimpse into the past and the struggles of the colonists who arrived in 1607. It’s where the first English settlement was built and is now home to various ancient artifacts, live reenactments, educational classes, and so much more.

Visitors can explore the ruins of James Fort and the Jamestown Church, see significant structures like the Ambler Mansion ruins and Governor Harvey House, and learn about the site’s history and preservation efforts at the Voorhees Archaearium.

The site also offers monuments, including the Tercentenary Monument, General Assembly Monument, and John Smith and Pocahontas statues.

And since it’s just a 15-minute drive from downtown, it’s an excellent addition to 5 days in Williamsburg itinerary !

Distance:  15 minutes

2. Yorktown, Virginia

Just a 20-minute drive east of Williamsburg, Yorktown makes up the third point of the Historic Triangle of Virginia and is a great place for a day trip for those interested in the American Revolution.

Yorktown was the location of the final battle of the Revolutionary War, which led to the surrender of the British army. 

Today, visitors can explore the  American Revolution Museum at Yorktown , the  Yorktown Victory Monument , and the  Yorktown Battlefield  to learn about the town’s role in the war. 

The town also offers charming colonial-era architecture, including nine pre-Revolutionary buildings, shops, and restaurants in the Riverwalk section along the waterfront. 

This is a great place for those who enjoy learning about history and those looking to gain some knowledge and insight into the American Revolution’s final battle!

Distance:  20 minutes

3. Newport News, Virginia

Newport News must be on your bucket list for those looking to escape Williamsburg and explore an area known for its outdoor recreational activities and countless parks.

Newport News is only 30 minutes away from Williamsburg and is a great place to visit on a day trip for those looking to stroll around parks, bike rides, or even go camping. 

One of the most popular parks in the area is  Newport News Park , and it’s a great place to spend several hours outdoors enjoying different activities. 

Distance:  30 minutes

4. Richmond, Virginia

Richmond is Virginia’s capital and home to a vibrant art scene, countless museums, and several parks and botanical gardens. The city has great shopping and restaurants throughout. 

For those looking to escape Williamsburg for the day and would like to experience a lively city, head to Richmond. 

When visiting the area, check out the  Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens . These gardens are whimsical, to say the least. This is a great place to take in the sights of countless plants, vibrant flowers blossoming, and butterflies roaming throughout. 

Once you have finished up at the gardens, head over to one of the many popular museums in the area. There are countless to choose from, including the  Virginia Museum of Fine Arts , the  Virginia Holocaust Museum , and the  Science Museum of Virginia . This is an excellent way to spend some time in the Richmond area and expand your knowledge on your particular interest!

For those interested in shopping in the area, head to the  Short Pump Town Center  or  Stony Point Fashion Park . Both of these areas have countless stores to stop by and check out!

Distance:  50 minutes

5. Norfolk, Virginia

As one of the oldest cities in America, Norfolk offers visitors a glimpse into the colonial era and the city’s pivotal role in American history.

The city is home to the largest naval base in the world, as well as numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts venues, including the renowned Chrysler Museum of Art and the Norfolk Botanical Garden.

And it’s unique architecture, from Federal rowhouses to Art Deco buildings, provides a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts.

Visitors can enjoy the city’s parks and recreation areas, catch a game at Harbor Park or explore the city’s waterfront, where you can go boating, fishing, and beach lounging.

The city’s revitalized downtown area is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it the perfect place to spend a day or evening.

Distance : 1 hour

6. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is another great beach area to check out within a short 1 hour and a-10-minute drive of Williamsburg! 

Virginia Beach is an excellent place for a day trip. It has a fabulous boardwalk, great beaches, and delicious eating places. 

We recommend heading to Virginia Beach for a laid-back day relaxing by the ocean! Once you are tired of soaking in the beach sun, head to the  Virginia Beach Boardwalk,  where you can stroll down its 3-mile path. 

When you are ready to grab a bite to eat, stop by  Waterman’s Surfside Grille  for their infamous orange crush drink and scrumptious crab cakes or she-crab soup!

Distance:  1 hour and 10 minutes

7. Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville, Virginia, is just under 2 hours from Williamsburg and is a great place to visit for those looking for beautiful mountain views, incredible wineries and breweries nearby, awesome hikes close by, and the town is full of history. 

One of the best activities to do in the Charlottesville area is to hike and take in the stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. 

Check out the  Ragged Mountain Natural Area Trail  for a moderate hike less than 7 miles long. This is a great trail for those looking to spend a few hours outside burning calories before heading to breweries or wineries for the day!

Be sure to pack your  favorite energy bars for hiking  to stay healthy and happy while on the trails. 

If hiking isn’t your thing, check out  Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello ! Thomas Jefferson designed and built this charming property and lived there until he passed away. This is a great place to learn more about our 3rd President and marvel at his beautiful home.

Once you have finished your morning activity, head to one of the popular breweries or wineries in the area for delicious drinks and a memorable experience. We recommend checking out  Starr Hill Brewery  or  Gabriele Rausse Winery !

Distance:  1 hour and 50 minutes

8. Winchester, Virginia

As the county seat of Frederick County, Winchester has played a pivotal role in American history, from its early European exploration and settlement to its involvement in the French and Indian War, Revolutionary War, and Civil War.

Visitors can explore the seven major battlefields in the original Frederick County and nearby areas, as well as other historical sites such as Fort Loudoun, built under the supervision of George Washington, Stonewall Jackson Headquarters Museum, and the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District. 

Winchester also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with the annual Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival and National Skirmish competitions.

With its charming downtown area, museums, and historical sites, Winchester offers a unique and educational day trip for visitors to Williamsburg.

You can check out my list of activities in Winchester to learn more .

Distance : 3 hours

Great Day Trips from Williamsburg Outside of Virginia

9. georgetown, d.c..

Another of the best day trips from Williamsburg, VA, is to Georgetown in Washington D.C. This area is extremely popular because it is home to Georgetown University, one of the oldest Catholic colleges in the United States.

Besides its famous college, Georgetown is popular for its awesome shopping, restaurants, and lively nightlife. 

For those looking to get out and explore the area, stop by  Clyde’s of Georgetown  for unforgettable cocktails and delicious American bites.

Distance:  2 hours and 30 minutes

10. Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis, Maryland, is another great day trip from Williamsburg. This town is known for its coastal views, home to the United States Naval Academy, its colonial architecture, and terrific seafood. 

For those visiting the area for the first time, head to  The Colonial Annapolis Historic District , where you can take in the charming colonial architecture and learn more about this town’s history and roots. 

Once you have finished learning about colonial America and the city of Annapolis, head to one of the most popular restaurants in the area, the  Boatyard Bar & Grill . This is a great place to grab delicious seafood and sip cold drinks!

Distance:  3 hours and 5 minutes

11. Raleigh, North Carolina

For those looking to head on a day trip out of state and would like to explore a city in North Carolina, you must check out Raleigh. 

Raleigh is known for its awesome museums, fantastic bars and restaurants, many places to shop, and for being the state capital of North Carolina. 

If you are interested in museums, check out the  North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences  or the  North Carolina Museum of Art . Both of these are great places to spend a few hours learning about various subjects and exploring exhibits that enthrall you. 

For those interested in eating and drinking your way through the city, check out some of Raleigh’s most popular establishments, such as the  Morgan Street Food Hall ,  Beasley’s Chicken, and Honey , or the  Raleigh Beer Garden !

If you would like to stay in the Raleigh area for a bit longer to explore all the city offers, stay at the  Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel  for its incredible aesthetic and amenities.

Distance:  3 hours and 5 minutes

12. Baltimore, Maryland

One of the furthest day trips from Williamsburg destinations is Baltimore, Maryland. This city has a handful of professional sports teams, delicious food, and many incredible landmarks and attractions. 

For sports lovers, the city of Baltimore is home to the Baltimore Ravens football team and the Orioles baseball team. This is a great place to catch a live game and cheer on Baltimore teams with the locals. 

Stop by the  National Aquarium  or the  Baltimore Museum of Art  if sporting events aren’t your thing. Both of these attractions are very popular amongst visitors and locals alike. They are great places to visit for those looking for a fun and unique experience. 

After you have hit a sporting event or gone to one of Baltimore’s top attractions, head to  G&M Restaurant  for crab cakes that will blow your mind. 

If you would rather stay in Baltimore longer than just a quick day trip, check out the  Baltimore Marriott Waterfront  for a great place to stay right by the water!

Distance:  3 hours and 30 minutes

13. Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City is northeast of Williamsburg and is a great place to visit for those looking for a lively beach town! Ocean City is known for its awesome boardwalk, incredible beaches, and fantastic surf fishing. 

For those looking to reel in some incredible fish, head over to  Homer Gudelsky Park  for one of the best places to surf fish in the area, and be sure to bring along your favorite  surf fishing rod  and  go-to saltwater tackle box  so you are prepared to have the best experience possible!

Once you have finished fishing for the day, head to  Fager’s Island  restaurant for terrific ocean views, delicious seafood and American cuisine, and tasty drinks!

If you love the Ocean City area and want to stay for a night or two, consider staying at the  Hilton Suites Ocean City Oceanfront . This beautiful place to stay right by the beach has great amenities!

Day Trips from Williamsburg, VA: FAQs

How many days should you spend in williamsburg.

I recommend spending a minimum of 2-3 days in Williamsburg to experience all the town offers. However, the longer you can spend, the better you can experience some of the best day trips from Williamsburg and some of the theme parks nearby!

What is close to Williamsburg, VA?

Countless places are close to Williamsburg, including the Historic Jamestown settlement, Yorktown, Newport News, and many other great destinations. 

How far apart are Williamsburg and Jamestown?

Jamestown is only 15 minutes from Williamsburg, making visiting the area a great day trip!

Top Day Trips from Williamsburg: Wrap-Up

As you can see, Williamsburg, Virginia, is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding areas.

From the beautiful beaches of Virginia Beach to the charming town of Norfolk, whether you are interested in history, nature, or just a change of scenery, there are plenty of day trip options all around Virginia and beyond.

What is your favorite day trip from Williamsburg, VA?

• Views, Vines, and Vibrant Meads: Visiting Orchid Cellar Meadery & Winery in Middletown, Maryland
• Beautiful Day Trips in Virginia
• Your Guide to the Best Things to do in Winchester, Virginia
• Your Guide to 5 Days of Things to do in Williamsburg, VA
• Easy Day Trips from Williamsburg, Virginia
• Magical Things to do in Maryland in Winter
• Charming Connecticut Towns with Easy Commutes to New York City
• The Best Summer Activities in Rhode Island
• Top Things to do at Turkey Run State Park in Indiana
• Best Things to do in Poughkeepsie, New York
• Fun Things to do in New Haven, Connecticut
• Most European Cities in North America
• Is New York Part of New England?

You’ll Also Love

Venice vs Rome: Which Italian City Should You Visit?

Become Purposely Lost

I'm Lyndsay! Thank you so much for joining me here at The Purposely Lost.

• Affiliate Disclaimer
• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Accessibility Statement
• United States
• Travel Tips

Copyright © 2024 The Purposely Lost · Theme by 17th Avenue

Privacy Overview

• Experience Smithfield

Smithfield, Virginia: The Best Day Trip from Virginia Beach

August 02, 2023

Introduction: Virginia Beach is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and lively atmosphere. Planning a fun day trip from VA Beach? Just a short drive away lies a hidden gem that promises a delightful change of pace and a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Smithfield, Virginia, a charming town with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, is one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. In this essay, we will explore why Smithfield stands out as a fun day trip from Virginia Beach, highlighting its historical significance, picturesque surroundings, delectable cuisine, and engaging attractions.

Rich History and Heritage: Smithfield, founded in 1752, is steeped in history and offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Virginia's past. The town's historic downtown area features well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, making it an excellent spot for history enthusiasts. The Isle of Wight County Museum, located in the heart of Smithfield, showcases a wide array of exhibits dedicated to the area's colonial, agricultural, and maritime history. The genuine experience of stepping back in time and learning about the town's roots makes Smithfield an ideal destination for history buffs and families seeking educational day trips.

Quaint Atmosphere and Southern Charm: Be sure to make Smithfield a spot to stop on your weekend trip to VA Beach. One of Smithfield's most endearing qualities is its small-town charm and friendly community. Visitors will find themselves captivated by the picturesque streets lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The residents' warm hospitality adds to the overall experience, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and relaxing. Strolling through Smithfield's scenic neighborhoods and interacting with the locals can turn an ordinary day trip into a memorable cultural excursion.

Scenic Beauty and Nature: Nestled along the Pagan River, Smithfield boasts breathtaking views of the water and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverfront, where the serene ambiance and gentle breeze create the perfect setting for relaxation and contemplation. Additionally, Windsor Castle Park, located just a short distance from the town center, offers expansive green spaces, hiking trails, and opportunities for birdwatching, providing nature enthusiasts with an ideal day trip escape from the bustling city life of Virginia Beach.

Delectable Culinary Delights: There may be other day trips from Virginia Beach but none of them are to the “Ham Town!” No day trip is complete without savoring the local cuisine, and Smithfield does not disappoint. The town is renowned for its ham, earning the moniker "Ham Capital of the World." Smithfield ham is a delicacy with a distinct flavor, and visitors can sample it at various eateries throughout the town. Furthermore, Smithfield is home to a vibrant culinary scene that extends beyond ham, offering a wide range of dining options to satisfy all taste buds. From cozy family-owned restaurants to charming cafes, visitors can relish an authentic dining experience that complements the overall day trip adventure.

Engaging Attractions and Activities: Smithfield provides an array of engaging attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. The charming Main Street invites leisurely strolls and boutique shopping, while the Smithfield Station's observation deck offers stunning views of the river. For history enthusiasts, touring the historic buildings such as the 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse and the Schoolhouse Museum provides an immersive experience. Moreover, art lovers can explore local galleries and studios, showcasing the works of talented regional artists. With its diverse range of activities, Smithfield ensures that every visitor finds something to pique their interests.

Conclusion: Whether you’re planning to stay for the weekend or the week, plan a day trip to Hamtown, USA. Smithfield, Virginia, presents an irresistible opportunity for a Virginia Beach Day Trip. The town's rich history, inviting atmosphere, scenic beauty, delicious cuisine, and engaging attractions make it a standout destination for both locals and tourists. Whether one seeks to immerse themselves in history, bask in the serene natural landscapes, or indulge in delightful culinary experiences, Smithfield offers an unforgettable journey into Virginia's cultural heritage. The allure of this charming town is undeniable, making it one of the best day trips near VA Beach for those seeking a memorable and fulfilling escape from the bustling shores of Virginia Beach.

Genuine Smithfield & Isle of Wight County: A Slice of Southern Charm

Virginia Beach   Travel Guide

Courtesy of WHL | Getty Images

13 Best Things To Do in Virginia Beach

Updated Apr. 22, 2022

The beach and boardwalk are the main attractions in this top Virginia vacation destination . Although there are some spots (like Sandbridge Beach ) where you can kayak and surf, the waters here are mostly too gentle for water sports enthusiasts. On

• All Things To Do

Virginia Beach Boardwalk and Beachfront Virginia Beach Boardwalk and Beachfront free

Instead of traditional wooden planks, Virginia Beach's famous boardwalk is concrete. The 3-mile thoroughfare is lined with quaint benches, Colonial-style street lamps, and biking and walking paths. The boardwalk also hosts various events and festivals at different points throughout the year, though street performers can be found entertaining passersby on most days. And similar to other East Coast beach destinations, you will find various restaurants and hotels along the boardwalk, as well as a white sand beach.

Travelers enjoy walking along this beautiful boardwalk year-round, citing its fun atmosphere and well-maintained paths as highlights. Several visitors recommend checking out the 24-foot-tall King Neptune statue, which sits by the beach at the Neptune Festival Park entrance on 31st Street. And if you visit in winter, some say you can't miss the attraction's holiday light display.

First Landing State Park First Landing State Park

The most visited park in Virginia is First Landing State Park, where the Jamestown colonists first landed in the New World in 1607. Today, it is a nice getaway from the shoreline crowds and a fantastic spot for enjoying the great outdoors. Be prepared to hike, camp, swim, bike, or just picnic and watch the squirrels run around. The park features 20 miles of trails and 1½ miles of beach on its 2,888 acres of scenic land.

Past visitors loved walking along this park's well-maintained trails, adding that the paths are relatively easy to trek. However, a few travelers said some trails lack adequate markers, so download the park's trail map or ask a park ranger for detailed directions to avoid getting lost.

Sandbridge Beach Sandbridge Beach free

Virginia Beach's main stretch of sand is situated next to its boardwalk , so if you're looking for a quieter beach option with fewer tourists, head 15 miles south of the city's resort area to Sandbridge Beach. This 5-mile swath of sand dunes, sea grass and shoreline lures swimmers and surfers, as well as families who desire more elbow room and close proximity to the area's vacation rentals. The beach also sits near Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge (where you can look for sea turtles and various bird species) and False Cape State Park (a protected area best explored by kayak, on foot or by bike).

According to recent beachgoers, this peaceful beach is beautiful and relaxing. In fact, a few previous visitors said its sunrises and sunsets are some of the best you'll see on the East Coast. Others appreciated the facilities (think: restrooms, picnic pavilions, sports courts, a playground and a fishing pier) found at Little Island Park, which is located at the southern end of the beach.

Popular Tours

Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours

(335 reviews)

from $ 68.00

Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour

(248 reviews)

Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium

(91 reviews)

from $ 59.00

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, located a mile south of the downtown resort area, offers more than 300 hands-on marine exhibits, including two animal touch pools with stingrays and horseshoe crabs. Visitors can get up close to turtles, sharks, otters and Komodo dragons; the property also features an oyster reef, nature trail, a ropes course, zip line area and a 3D theater that screens educational films and Hollywood movies.

According to recent visitors, families will love exploring this fun attraction, although a few said that the property's admissions are high given its small size. Some also cautioned that older children may lose interest in the aquarium's exhibits.

Cape Henry Lighthouse Cape Henry Lighthouse

Just north of  First Landing State Park  is Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first lighthouse ever authorized by Congress. The attraction still has connections with the government; located on the grounds of the Fort Story military base, you'll have to show ID (either a REAL ID Act-compliant driver's license or a passport) at the property's entrance. The brick lighthouse was constructed in the 1790s and was an important step for trade along the Virginia and Maryland coasts, as it made the Chesapeake Bay easier and safer to navigate.

Overall, many visitors enjoyed exploring this historic attraction, though they mentioned there aren't many other attractions in the area. Several were quick to praise the lighthouse's "amazing" views at the top and said that the climb up was fairly easy, although seniors and young kids may have a hard time.

Military Aviation Museum Military Aviation Museum

History buffs and aviation enthusiasts alike will love checking out the Military Aviation Museum. As its name suggests, this museum is packed with military aircraft (more specifically, World War I- and World War II-era airplanes), which have been restored to their prewar condition. Noteworthy items from the private collection include a de Havilland Mosquito (a plane that's primarily made of wood) and a Messerschmitt ME 262 (the world's first jet-powered fighter plane).

Past visitors said this impressive museum offers a great assortment of planes, adding that the docent-led tour of the hangars (which is covered by the property's entrance fee) can't be missed. For an extra charge, travelers can go for a ride in one of the planes, but these flights cost as much as $375 per person and are only available between early April and late October. Another way to see some of the planes in action is to attend one of the museum's air shows, which are typically held on weekends.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge free

Sometimes, all you want is a little peace, and when you're in Virginia Beach, the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is the place to find it. Previous visitors lauded the refuge's serene atmosphere and said they encountered very few other people while exploring. Though you may not encounter other humans at the refuge, you'll see your fair share of animals, whether it be herons, ducks, swans or sea turtles. The more than 9,200-acre refuge offers several easy to moderate hiking trails that will bring you past wetlands, sand dunes and whispering sea grass, as well as pine forests full of critters.

The refuge, located just past Sandbridge Beach , is open daily from dawn to dusk. The visitor center is generally open daily from 8 a.m. or 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Note that the visitor center does close seasonally. Entrance is free from November through March, but if you're visiting in the warmer months, you'll have to pay a small fee. Entrance costs $5 for a single vehicle or $2 per person entering on foot. Parking is free, and spots are open on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors should note that pets (aside from service animals) are not allowed to enter the refuge. There is a refuge visitor center open from Tuesday to Saturday during the summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day) season, and it offers indoor restrooms. To start planning your visit to the wildlife refuge, see the official website .

Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art free

This museum brings a taste of culture to Virginia Beach with rotating art displays showcasing paintings, sculptures, photography and digital media projects. Hands-on exhibition areas and diverse, rotating displays make each trip to this museum unique. Notable past exhibitions include "Shifting Gaze: A Reconstruction of The Black & Hispanic Body in Contemporary Art," which touched on race and identity through a wide array of media, and "Echard Wheeler: In Stillness," a photography exhibit showcasing the history of nearby First Landing State Park .

Though the museum is mainly geared toward adults, there are some kid-friendly aspects, such as ARTlab – an interactive space where children can get a better understanding of the themes displayed in the artwork. Previous visitors said the museum was smaller than they expected, but that they still enjoyed the exhibits and appreciated the friendly staff.

Wetland Zip Tour

(73 reviews)

from $ 65.49

Neptune Ghosts: Ghosts of the Coast By US Ghost Adventures

(55 reviews)

from $ 24.00

Dolphin Kayak Tour in Virginia Beach Must know how to swim

from $ 77.00

ViBe Creative District ViBe Creative District free

A stroll through the ViBe Creative District will bring you past vibrant murals, art galleries, quirky coffee shops, hip restaurants, boutique stores and more. The Old Beach Farmers Market, which is held on Saturday mornings, is also a great place to explore. Recent visitors said they loved experiencing the district's busy streets and browsing stands from local artists, adding it's definitely worth getting out of the car if you're just driving through the area.

There are many exciting events held in the district throughout the year. The annual Mural Festival comes around each August and brings 10 artists to the city to paint 10 new pieces over 10 days. And, each April, visitors can experience the Art of Humanity event, which features live music, face painting, and discussions to promote peace and nonviolence.

Ocean Breeze Waterpark Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Once your kids have had their fill of the sand, consider a family trip to Ocean Breeze Waterpark. The park offers slides and rides galore, as well as an area for little swimmers, which features tamer splash zones and small inner tubes to ride. A lazy river, a wave pool and plenty of water park snacks like funnel cakes, candy and slushies, round out the park's offerings.

Previous visitors said Ocean Breeze was a great place to spend a hot day, and that children enjoyed all the rides. Reviewers also appreciated the park's overall cleanliness and felt the staff was welcoming and helpful when supervising children.

Virginia Beach Breweries Virginia Beach Breweries

Read More »

Chic's Beach Chic's Beach

False Cape State Park False Cape State Park free

Private Professional Holiday Photoshoot in Virginia Beach

from $ 174.02

Virginia Beach, Venture Scavenger Hunt

from $ 17.60

Scavenger Hunt in Virginia Beach by 3Quest Challenge

from $ 10.00

Explore More of Virginia Beach

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Explore The Hidden Gems Of Virginia: 30 Interesting Day Trips For Adventure Seekers

Table of Contents

Planning your next adventure in the  Old Dominion State ? Virginia , a state rich with  American history  and  diverse natural landscapes , boasts numerous  hidden gems  that promise thrill-seekers an unforgettable experience.

This guide takes you on a tour of 30 enchanting destinations across this picturesque state to spice up your usual  day trip itinerary . Let’s unlock  Virginia’s best-kept secrets  for an extraordinary journey into its  wilderness, history, and culture !

Key Takeaways

• Assateague Island National Seashore offers a captivating wildlife preserve with walking trails and beautiful beaches for outdoor activities.
• Monticello, the historic estate of Thomas Jefferson, showcases breathtaking architecture and offers fascinating insights into American history.
• Luray Caverns is the largest cavern system in the Eastern United States , featuring dramatic geological formations and unique attractions like the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum.
• Colonial Williamsburg provides an immersive experience where visitors can step back in time to explore colonial-era attractions and enjoy nearby adventure parks like Busch Gardens.
• Shenandoah National Park offers stunning landscapes, scenic drives like Skyline Drive, hiking trails, and access to visitor centers for various outdoor activities.
• The Barboursville Ruins and Winery provide a glimpse into Virginia’s history while offering self-guided  tours of ruins and access to one of the best wineries in the state.
• Harper’s Ferry National Historic Park combines nature trails along rivers with museums and historical sites from Civil War battlefields.
• Outdoor adventure day trips include exploring the Virginia Creeper Trail’s picturesque countryside or challenging hikes like Old Rag Mountain.
• Shenandoah Caverns offers an enchanting underground world to explore, conveniently located near I  – 81.
• Natural Tunnel State Park fascinates visitors with its 300-yard  natural tunnel carved by water over millions of years.

👉 Embark on a Virginia adventure with Skyscanner. Discover the best flight deals to Virginia’s hidden gems and start planning your day trips today.

Hidden Gems of Virginia for Adventure Seekers

Discover the untamed beauty of  Assateague Island National Seashore , explore the historic Monticello estate, and venture deep underground in  Luray Caverns  – Virginia has a wealth of hidden gems for adventure seekers.

Assateague Island National Seashore

Journey to Assateague Island National Seashore, a captivating  14,000-acre wildlife preserve . It’s home to the vibrant  Indigenous cultures of the Pocomoke and Occohannock people . Explore  serene marshes  that shape its distinctive natural environment, or take in the uniqueness of this hidden beach gem in Virginia .

Choose from  walking trails or wooden pathways  for your exploration, with ample space for various outdoor activities. No doubt about it – a trip here guarantees you  beauty and tranquility at every corner !

👉 Discover the perfect base for your Virginia adventures

Monticello emerges as a  must-visit destination  on the itinerary of any Virginia day trip. Once home to Thomas Jefferson, this historic gem showcases  breathtaking architecture  and is saturated with  American history .

Explore the  intricately designed rooms  of the plantation house, each offering an exclusive insight into Jefferson’s life.

During your tour, visit Monticello’s  Vegetable Garden and Fruitery,  boasting hundreds of varieties of historical fruits and vegetables. Knowledgeable docents welcome you at every corner sharing fascinating stories connected to this grand estate and revealing secrets from the past that is bound to pique your interest as a history buff or just someone seeking a unique day out in Virginia.

👉 Uncover Virginia’s secrets with S kyscanner. Book your flight now and prepare for an exciting journey through the state’s most intriguing day trip destinations.

Luray Caverns

Discover the ethereal beauty of Luray Caverns , a  U.S. National Landmark  and the  largest cavern system  in the Eastern United States. Found in 1878, Luray Caverns boasts  dramatic geological formations  that will leave you spellbound.

Venture into these underground wonders near Luray, Virginia, for behind-the-scenes sights like no other. Aside from exploring this natural marvel’s chambers and passages, your exciting visit also includes access to unique attractions such as the  Car & Carriage Caravan Museum  and  Toy Town Junction .

Located conveniently from Washington, D.C., it consistently ranks among must-visit places for day trips in Virginia for adults and children alike.

Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is one of the coolest historic places in Virginia that you shouldn’t miss. It offers a  unique and immersive experience  where you can step back in time and explore the colonial era.

With  attractions like Busch Gardens, Water Country, and Great Wolf Lodge , there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The area of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown also hides  hidden gems and unexpected adventures  for adventure seekers like you.

👉 Dive into Williamsburg’s gourmet food landscape on a 3-hour walking tour that takes your taste buds on an adventure.  Secure your experience now  and meet the stars behind the local culinary scene.

And don’t forget, the  1781 siege in nearby Yorktown  was the last major battle of the American Revolution. So make sure to add Colonial Williamsburg to your must-visit destinations in Virginia !

Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive

Shenandoah National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Located in Virginia, this park is known for its  stunning landscapes and natural beauty .

One of the highlights of Shenandoah National Park is the Skyline Drive , a 105-mile scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Along the drive, you’ll find numerous overlooks where you can stop and take in the panoramic vistas.

The park also features  visitor centers and trailheads accessible from Skyline Drive , making exploring all that Shenandoah has to offer easy. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or wildlife viewing, Shenandoah National Park has something for everyone.

👉 Turn your Virginia day trips into overnight discoveries. Find and book accommodations that put you in the heart of the adventure.

Barbourville Ruins and Winery

The  Barboursville Ruins and Winery   in Virginia offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s history. These ruins, which can still be visited today, provide a haunting experience as you explore the remains of Barbour’s Jefferson-designed home.

The winery offers  self-guided tours  of the ruins, allowing you to learn about the  rich heritage  of this place. Located near Keswick Vineyards, it is considered  one of the best wineries in Virginia .

So whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a unique day trip, don’t miss out on exploring the Barboursville Ruins and Winery.

👉 Let Skyscanner be your guide to Virginia’s adventures

Harper’s Ferry National Historic Park

Harper’s Ferry National Historic Park is  located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers . It offers a  variety of trails , ranging from easy riverside strolls to challenging hikes across Civil War battlefields.

Whether a nature lover or a history buff, this park has something for everyone. Explore museums, visit historic sites, and engage in various activities within the park. Harper’s Ferry is considered one of the best small towns in West Virginia to explore, making it a  great destination for all ages  where nature and history collide.

Outdoor Adventure Day Trips in Virginia

Looking for some outdoor adventure in Virginia? Check out these thrilling day trips that will get your heart pumping and leave you wanting more. From hiking to biking to exploring natural wonders, there’s something for every adventure seeker.

Don’t miss out on the excitement!

Virginia Creeper Trail

The Virginia Creeper Trail is a  34-mile multi-use trail  that winds through the  picturesque countryside of Virginia . This scenic trail takes you through  rolling farmland, lush forests, and charming small towns .

Whether you hike, bike, or ride on horseback, the Virginia Creeper Trail offers stunning natural beauty for everyone to enjoy. If you want to experience the trail on two wheels, bike rentals, and shuttles are available.

One of the highlights of this trail is its  breathtaking fall foliage in October , making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Grayson Highlands State Park, located in Southwest Virginia, is a hidden gem for adventure seekers. This  4,502-acre park  offers breathtaking  scenic trails , stunning waterfalls, and incredible overlooks that will leave you in awe.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking to enjoy nature, Grayson Highlands State Park has something for everyone.

One of the unique features of this park is its  horse trails and horse camping facilities . You can saddle up and explore the rolling hills and dense forests on horseback, taking in the beauty of your surroundings along the way.

And if you’re lucky, you may even spot some  wild ponies  roaming freely throughout the park.

Grayson Highlands State Park is also  part of the Jefferson National Forest , meaning there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. From hiking to picnicking to wildlife viewing, this park has it all.

Old Rag Mountain Hike

Old Rag Mountain Hike  in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, is a must-do for adventure seekers. This  challenging hike  is known for its  thrilling rock scrambles  and breathtaking 360-degree views  from the top.

Considered one of the  best hikes in Virginia , it’s worth the effort. So lace up your hiking boots and prepare for an unforgettable Old Rag Mountain experience.

👉 Experience Virginia’s hidden gems with comfort. Secure your accommodation today and wake up ready to explore new horizons

Shenandoah Caverns

Shenandoah Caverns is a  captivating show cave  located in Quicksburg, Virginia. Discovered by explorers who braved descending 270 feet using only ropes and candles, this  underground wonderland  offers a  unique adventure experience  for visitors.

It is one of the few hidden gems in Virginia where you can explore an  enchanting subterranean world . Conveniently accessible from I-81 between Mt. Jackson and New Market, Shenandoah Caverns is worth adding to your list of  must-visit attractions  in Virginia.

Hawksbill Mountain

Hawksbill Mountain , located in Shenandoah National Park, is a  hidden gem for adventure seekers  in Virginia. As the  highest point in the park  at 4,009 ft, it offers  breathtaking panoramic views  of the stunning Linville Gorge in North Carolina.

This  moderately challenging hike  is only 1.5 miles round-trip, making it accessible to all skill levels. So if you’re looking for an exhilarating experience and want to soak in the beauty of nature from above, Hawksbill Mountain is worth exploring during your visit to Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park.

Natural Tunnel State Park

Located in Duffield, Virginia , Natural Tunnel State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. This hidden gem  features a 300-yard-long natural tunnel carved by water over millions of years.

As you explore the park, you’ll find  seven trails ranging from 0.3 miles to 1.1 miles in length , offering scenic views and opportunities for hiking. One highlight of the park is the  chairlift ride down to the tunnel , giving visitors a unique perspective on this geological wonder.

Five picnic shelters are available for rent if you’re planning a picnic or family gathering. So pack your lunch and spend a day immersed in nature at Natural Tunnel State Park!

Bearfence Mountain

The  hike up Bearfence Mountain   in Shenandoah National Park is an adventure you won’t want to miss. This trail offers a unique experience, as it requires agility and the use of both hands to navigate the  rocky terrain .

Considered the most fun hike in the park, you’ll find yourself climbing up and over rocks, known as the  Bearfence scramble . Once you reach the top, be prepared to be amazed by the  breathtaking view  that awaits you.

Located in Virginia, Bearfence Mountain is a hidden gem for adventure seekers looking for a thrilling outdoor experience.

Thrilling Activities in Virginia

Experience heart-pounding excitement at water parks like Water Country USA and Kings Dominion, or explore the adrenaline-inducing trails and landscapes of Breaks Interstate Park and Virginia International Raceway.

Water Country USA

Water Country USA, located in Williamsburg, is the  largest water park  in Virginia. With  over 40 state-of-the-art water rides and attractions , it offers a thrilling and exciting adventure for visitors of all ages.

From  twisting waterslides  to  giant swimming pools , thousands of feet of aquatic fun can be enjoyed. Whether you’re looking to slide down  high-speed water slides  or relax on lazy rivers, Water Country USA has something for everyone.

So grab your swimsuit and prepare for an unforgettable day filled with splashes and laughter at this amazing water park.

👉 Secure your flight to start your exploration of Virginia’s unique day trip spots.

Kings Dominion

Located in Virginia, Kings Dominion is a  must-visit amusement park  for adventure seekers. This renowned park offers an array of  thrilling roller coasters  and  f amily-friendly rides to pump your adrenaline.

From the heart-stopping twists and turns of Intimidator 305 to the gravity-defying loops of Twisted Timbers, there’s something for everyone at Kings Dominion. And if you want to cool off on a hot day, don’t miss Soak City, their exciting water park within the grounds.

Whether you’re seeking excitement or just a fun day out with the family, Kings Dominion is the perfect destination for an unforgettable adventure in Virginia.

Breaks Interstate Park

Breaks Interstate Park  is a  hidden gem in the ancient Appalachian Mountains ,  straddling the border between Kentucky and Virginia . This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering  miles of scenic hiking trails  that wind through rugged cliffs, rivers, and lush forests.

For those looking to relax and unwind, you can rent  cozy lakefront cabins  for a peaceful getaway . Mountain biking enthusiasts will also find paradise here, as the park boasts a  12-mile stack loop trail  perfect for challenging rides.

Nature lovers won’t be disappointed either – the Virginia Wildlife Trail offers birdwatching opportunities aplenty, so don’t forget your binoculars when exploring this stunning park.

Richmond Raceway

Richmond Raceway is a  regional leader in sports, live music, and consumer trade shows . Covering over 1,000 acres, this popular track  attracts NASCAR enthusiasts  from over. With  upgraded amenities for a better race day experience , you can immerse yourself in the thrilling world of NASCAR at Richmond Raceway.

Don’t miss out on FanGrounds, which offers an immersive experience that will make your visit even more exciting. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for adrenaline-pumping entertainment , Richmond Raceway is the place to be.

👉 Discover Richmond’s treasures on wheels with the  Landmark Segway Tour.  Check out the landmarks, book your tour, and get ready to cruise through the city’s storied streets.

Virginia International Raceway

Virginia International Raceway, or VIR, is a  must-visit destination  for  motorsport enthusiasts . Since opening its doors in 1957, VIR has hosted many events and offers  track touring experiences  for those looking to get up close to the action.

Situated on rolling hills near the  picturesque Dan River , this motorsport resort provides an unforgettable setting for  racing schools , high-performance driver experiences, and track day groups.

With its rich history and beautiful surroundings, Virginia International Raceway will thrill novice fans and seasoned racetrack veterans.

👉 Fly into the heart of Virginia’s hidden wonders with Skyscanner .

Dinosaur Kingdom II

Dinosaur Kingdom II is a must-visit  roadside attraction  in  Natural Bridge, Virginia . This unique walking adventure showcases a display of  fiberglass creatures  that will transport you back to the time of dinosaurs.

The park offers  interactive experiences  with  animatronic dinosaurs , making it an exciting and immersive experience for all ages. Not only is Dinosaur Kingdom II entertaining, but it has also been  praised by the Washington Post .

One of the park’s highlights is its  depiction of the defeat of the Union Army by dinosaurs , providing a fascinating twist on history. So if you’re looking for a thrilling and educational day trip in Virginia, add Dinosaur Kingdom II to your itinerary!

Bryce Bike Park

Bryce Bike Park  in Basye, Virginia, is a must-visit for  adventure seekers . Located near the border of West Virginia, this park offers  breathtaking views  nestled in the  mountains . It’s only two hours west of Washington DC on Route 66, making it easily accessible for a day trip.

The highlight of Bryce Bike Park is its thrilling  downhill mountain biking activities . As you go through the park, you can stop at various stations and take in the  incredible scenery .

So get ready to hit the trails and experience an  adrenaline-fueled day  at Bryce Bike Park!

👉 Make every Virginia day trip memorable by booking the ideal stay

Food and Drink Day Trips in Virginia

Indulge in the delicious offerings of Loudoun County Ale Trail, where you can sample various craft beers from local breweries.

Loudoun County Ale Trail

The  Loudoun County Ale Trail in Northern Virginia  is a haven for  craft beer enthusiasts . With  eight stops along the trail , visitors can sample a variety of delicious local brews and enjoy some tasty food.

For those who want to combine their love of beer with a bit of exercise, ten beginner-level miles are  available for biking  along the trail. The Loudoun County Ale Trail is just part of the larger LoCo Ale Trail, showcasing the numerous craft breweries in Northern Virginia.

So grab your pint glass and embark on a flavorful adventure through Loudoun County!

Wineries and Vineyards in Northern Virginia

Northern Virginia has many  wineries and vineyards , offering a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts. With 57 wineries in the region, there are plenty of options to explore and discover your new favorite vintage.

Bluemont Vineyard stands out for its  Farm-to-Table food-wine pairing experiences , where you can savor delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients alongside their exceptional wines.

For those seeking  breathtaking views , Sky Meadows State Park and Barrel Oak Winery in Paris offer stunning vistas of the Virginia Piedmont, coupled with a cozy barn-side winery atmosphere.

These wineries provide an opportunity to enjoy excellent wines and offer  unique events and activities  such as wine tastings and vineyard tours on special occasions like Mother’s Day.

👉 Virginia’s hidden gems await your discovery with Skyscanner

Leesburg and Purcellville

Leesburg and Purcellville are two hidden gems within a short distance from Washington, D.C.  Adventure seekers will find plenty to do in these charming towns. Leesburg offers activities like cycling through scenic landscapes and visiting wineries where you can enjoy tastings of local wines.

On the other hand, Purcellville is known for its historical sites and natural wonders. You can explore the town’s rich history by visiting its museums and historic buildings or embark on outdoor adventures such as hiking along picturesque trails or exploring nearby waterfalls.

Regarding dining options, both Leesburg and Purcellville have various choices ranging from restaurants serving delicious cuisine to breweries offering locally crafted beers.

Historical and Cultural Day Trips in Virginia

Explore Virginia’s rich history and vibrant culture with these day trips that take you to iconic landmarks like Arlington National Cemetery, Manassas National Battlefield, and the Smithsonian Air and Space Stephen F.

Udvar-Hazy Center. Immerse yourself in Charlottesville’s historical charm or discover the cultural gems of Richmond . Don’t miss Chincoteague and Assateague Islands for a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

👉We recommend this  guided walking tour  if you’re eager to explore and enjoy Richmond.

Arlington National Cemetery

The Arlington National Cemetery is a  significant destination for travelers  in Virginia. Covering over 620 acres, this historic cemetery is  maintained by the National Park Service . You can take a tram tour that stops at four major sites within the cemetery, including the John F.

Kennedy Gravesite and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Arlington National Cemetery has been the location of various important events, such as state funerals for presidents and other notable figures.

Located in Arlington, Virginia , this area is also home to numerous military monuments and memorials. Best of all, admission to Arlington National Cemetery is free for visitors!

Manassas National Battlefield

Manassas National Battlefield Park is a  5,000-acre park  located in Virginia. This historic site was the  location of two major Civil War battles . As a visitor, you can take  ranger-guided walking tours  to explore the battlefield and learn about the events that unfolded here.

The park features landmarks such as  Stonewall Jackson’s monument  and the  iconic Stone Bridge . In addition to its historical significance, Manassas National Battlefield Park offers  educational programs and events  for visitors who want to delve deeper into this important chapter of American history.

Venture into Manassas National Battlefield Park and immerse yourself in the stories of those who fought on these grounds during the Civil War. Witness firsthand the  remnants of battle sites  while exploring this expansive park.

👉 Extend your Virginia adventures with the perfect booking

Smithsonian Air and Space Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center

The  Smithsonian Air and Space Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center  is a must-visit attraction at Washington Dulles International Airport  in Northern Virginia. As a  companion facility to the National Air and Space Museum  in Washington, D.C., this center  showcases thousands of artifacts related to aviation and space exploration .

With  over 3,000 artifacts on display , visitors can immerse themselves in the wonder of air and space while also exploring Virginia’s hidden gems.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville , located in the heart of Virginia, is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with your family, partner, or friends, this vibrant city has it all.

One of the highlights of Charlottesville is Shenandoah National Park, which boasts an impressive 105 miles of trails for hiking enthusiasts to explore. If you’re more into history and culture, visit the  historic downtown mall  – one of the longest pedestrian malls in the country.

And if outdoor adventures are your thing, you’ll love the  natural wonders surrounding Charlottesville  that provide  opportunities for activities like hiking and biking . With its diverse attractions and activities, Charlottesville is a  must-visit destination in Virginia .

Richmond , VA, is a city filled with  historical and cultural day trip opportunities  in Virginia. Explore Richmond’s charming historic sites, immersing yourself in the city’s rich history.

Don’t miss out on visiting museums  that provide fascinating insights into  Richmond’s past and vibrant culture . Plus, being  conveniently located near other interesting Virginia destinations, Richmond is  an  ideal starting point for spontaneous day trips .

Take advantage of this proximity by embarking on exciting adventures nearby. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking new experiences, Richmond has something to offer for everyone looking to explore the hidden gems of Virginia.

👉 With Skyscanner , Virginia’s adventure is just a flight away

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Virginia Day Trips

What are some of the best day trips in Virginia for adventure seekers?

Virginia is full of amazing destinations for day trips. A few of the best include exploring the Luray Caverns, visiting Virginia Beach , hiking in Shenandoah National Park, immersing in history at Colonial Williamsburg , and enjoying the views at Skyline Drive.

👉 Immerse yourself in the eerie charm of  Williamsburg with the Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl.  Secure your spot now for a night of frights and delights.

I’m planning a day trip from Richmond. Where should I go?

You’re in luck! Richmond is within easy reach of numerous fascinating destinations. Take a step back in history at Colonial Williamsburg or Monticello, enjoy natural beauty at the James River or Shenandoah National Park, or explore the stunning Luray Caverns. Remember Virginia Beach if you’re up for a coastal adventure!

👉 Discover the serene trails of the James River in Richmond. Check out the route, lace up your hiking boots, and  book your journey to wander through Virginia’s picturesque wilderness

Any suggestions for day trips near the Northern Virginia region?

Absolutely! Northern Virginia is conveniently situated close to many great attractions. Head to the Shenandoah National Park for breathtaking views and amazing hikes, explore the historic town of Charlottesville or admire the beautiful campus of the University of Virginia. And if you don’t mind a little drive, a day trip to Virginia Beach is always a winner!

What is one of Virginia’s best-hidden gems for day trips?

The Luray Caverns in Shenandoah Valley is one of Virginia’s finest hidden gems. Within a day trip from Richmond or Northern Virginia, you can explore stunning geological formations and underground wonders. It’s truly one of the best places to visit in Virginia.

Any ideas for fun day trips in Virginia museums?

If you’re a museum lover, Virginia has got you covered. You can plan a day trip to the Virginia Museum of Art in Richmond or visit the historic George Washington Mount Vernon near Alexandria. The Virginia Discovery Museum in Charlottesville is also a fun choice for family outings.

👉 Book your stay in Virginia and step into the unknown

What are the best day trips from Virginia suitable for families?

Virginia has plenty of family-friendly day trip destinations, from beaches to parks to museums. Kids will love exploring the Virginia Living History Museum in Newport News and the Virginia Beach aquarium. Another enjoyable family trip can be to Busch Gardens, an amusement park in Williamsburg with lots to enjoy.

Where can I spend the day tasting wine near Charlottesville?

Charlottesville is surrounded by beautiful vineyards, making it a great base for wine lovers. A day trip exploring the towns’ scenic wineries can be an amazing experience. Nearby, you’ll find Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards and Barboursville Vineyards, among others.

What interesting day trips from DC should I consider in Virginia?

Virginia offers a variety of attractions that make for great day trips from DC. Head out to Old Town Alexandria for a day of history, or spend the day hiking in Shenandoah National Park. You could also visit Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, or take a trip to Virginia Beach for some sun and sand.

👉 Set off on an unforgettable adventure with our top-rated  Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour , where you’ll glide alongside the majestic wild dolphins of Virginia Beach.

I’m interested in a day trip to Virginia’s UNESCO World Heritage site. What would you recommend?

You can make a day trip to Monticello and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville; both are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The site acknowledges the historical significance of Thomas Jefferson’s home and a university he designed in the early 19th century.

Are there any recommended aquariums for a day trip from Virginia Beach?

Yes, Virginia Beach is home to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, one of Virginia’s best places to visit. It’s an excellent place for a day trip, where you can discover exciting marine life and learn about their conservation efforts.

👉 Elevate your Virginia Aquarium adventure with The Adventure Park—discover our  highly-recommended ziplining and climbing  amidst stunning views.

In conclusion, Virginia is a  treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored. From  historic landmarks and cultural attractions  to  outdoor adventures and thrilling activities , there’s  something for every adventure seeker  in this  beautiful state .

So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an  unforgettable day trip through Virginia’s fascinating wonders . You won’t be disappointed!

👉 Virginia’s day trips deserve a comfortable end. Secure your accommodation near the best-kept secrets for a well-rounded adventure.

Similar Posts

Ultimate Guide: 19 Must-Do Things In Virginia Beach For An Unforgettable Experience

Planning a trip to Virginia Beach and not sure where to start? This picturesque coastal city is brimming with attractions, from sandy…

7 of the Best Cabin Rentals in the United States

If you are looking for cabin rentals, then this is the article for you! We have compiled a list…

The Ultimate Guide To Romantic Things To Do In Richmond For Couples

Welcome to Richmond, a charming city renowned for its exceptional cuisine and vibrant atmosphere that beckons lovers seeking romance on every corner. In…

Making a Splash in Paradise: Exploring the Best Water Parks and Amusement Parks in Hawaii for Your Ultimate Adventure!

Welcome to the breathtaking islands of Hawaii, where adventure awaits at every turn. Nestled in the heart of the…

Romantic Getaways: Unforgettable Things to Do in West Virginia for Couples

Escape from crowded beaches and predictable city breaks, and venture to West Virginia for a different kind of romantic…

Top things to do in Arizona

Arizona is blessed with mountains and plateaus. Home to the Grand Canyon, one of the seven wonders of the world.

Pin It on Pinterest

7 Day Trip to Virginia Beach with the Family

Virginia Beach offers something for everyone, making it a truly perfect vacation destination for families with kids of any age. A Virginia Beach family vacation includes sun, sand, surf and plenty of entertainment for everyone in the family. There's always plenty to see and do, expansive castles to be built and so many other nooks and crannies waiting to be explored. Let us help you find just the right mix of family entertainment to make your Virginia Beach vacation with your family one you will all remember.

Wake up to ocean views, dolphins swimming, navy jets flying and boats everywhere! Nothing to do today except lay your towel down on the sand and bask in the sun.

When hunger strikes, grab a bite to eat from one of our favorite grab-and-go spots like Zeke’s Beans and Bowls or Taste Unlimited , then head back to the beach to enjoy.

Start your day with a little shopping at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront . For a mix of eclectic coastal finds, it’s hard to beat Atlantic Avenue . From classic beach staples like Sunsations , to charming local boutique clothing and gift shops, Atlantic Avenue has a little something for everyone. Check out local shop, True Woman , for great styles and reasonably-priced clothing in reasonable sizes and Bargain Beachwear for a huge selection of all of the beach attire you could want at a great price. Stop by The Artery at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront  for a huge selection including local shops and boutiques. 

After your bags are sufficiently filled, head to Cape Henry military base to climb the steps of the Cape Henry Lighthouse , the first federal construction project under the new government after the Revolutionary War.  Before visiting Cape Henry Lighthouse, be sure to read  additional information on location, arrival, and rules and regulations.

Test your game at with some mini golf. Whether you prefer to play golf among the waterfalls and palm trees of Shipwreck Golf , on a safari at Jungle Golf of Virginia Beach , or even test your luck in one of our blacklight indoor mini golf options, there are several options your family will love in the oceanfront area.

After golf, walk over to Rudee Inlet for a boat ride on the ocean. Opt for the The Rudee Rocket , which is known as the greatest thrill ride on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront and is essentially a giant speed boat tour along the coast that is a must for all thrill seekers.

Wake up early for a sunrise over the water then get your adrenaline pumping with a morning of indoor skydiving at iFly . When you’re back on solid ground, head down the road for a maritime adventure at the Virginia Aquarium.

Dive into more than 800,000 gallons of fun during your self-guided tour of the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center , where you’ll explore the ocean depths and navigate Virginia’s various aquatic and marine environments throughout time. You’ll even get to see the rare Komodo dragon, exotic cobras and the endangered Tomistoma freshwater crocodile among more than 300 species of animals.

Take in the sights and sounds of the oceanfront area with a long bike ride down the boardwalk. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk was built with cyclists and walkers in mind. With separate biking and walking paths, cyclists can ride their beach cruisers along the coast without having to dodge pedestrians or cars. For a classic Virginia Beach adventure, rent a four-wheeled surrey bike and work as a team with your entire family as you pedal full-steam ahead. With rental stations all along the boardwalk, you can come right off the beach and go.

Spend your evening in style with a trip to Virginia Beach’s downtown district, Town Center , for a night of shopping, shows, and great food. Mom and dad can grab a handcrafted cocktail at Twist Martini before catching a show at Sandler Center . Stop by the Royal Chocolate  to close out the night with a tasty treat!

Start your day in the agricultural district of Pungo with breakfast at The Bee & the Biscuit . Operating out of a charming 1919 cottage, this is one of our favorite places to go for a heart southern breakfast. Their house-baked items, local flaky, buttery biscuits and Fresh Pie of the Day are an absolute must. You also can’t go wrong with any of their layered mason jar desserts, like salted caramel brownie or peaches and cream, especially when ordering to-go. Wash it all down with a delicious iced hazelnut vanilla latte.

For another unbeatable brunch option in Pungo, look no further than  Redhead Bay Cafe . Though located in a rural part of town, this place is fast-paced and bustling on the weekends, but you can always expect a warm welcome, large portions of food, and delicious craft cocktails. We love their BYO Breakfast Sandwich for a customized experience that is made to perfection. Wash it down with a Crabby Ghost Bloody Mary if you're feeling spicy.

Spend the afternoon exploring the uninhibited history of the Virginia Military Aviation Museum . It holds the largest private collection of 65 planes from the first 50 years of military aviation, and most of the aircraft have amazingly been restored to their original flying condition.

Grab some ice cream at Pungo Pizza & Ice Cream and take it to Pungo Blueberries to pick a basket of your own.

Close out your trip by heading up into the trees at the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium for some high-flying fun. With 15 different treetop obstacle courses at varying degrees of difficulty, this is no walk in the park. Somewhere among the nighttime climbs up in the illuminated trees, zip-lines across Owl’s Creek and the resolve-testing leaps of faith from what seems like a mile up, you’ll forget that you’re at sea level.

Spend the rest of your trip exploring the eclectic ViBe Creative District . While you can find all manners of artwork within the quaint shops and coffeehouses that comprise the area, the ViBe District is a work of art in and of itself. Look no further than the murals, most of which were done by local artists, that fill the ViBe and the Oceanfront with wonder and color. Take the ViBe Mural Walking Tour, an easy, one-mile walking tour, to see all of these colorful murals for yourselves.

Virginia Beach Vacation Guide

Sign up for our newsletter.

• Privacy Policy
• International
• Accessibility

12 Unforgettable Virginia Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.

More by this Author

There’s nothing better than planning a trip to explore all that the beautiful state of Virginia has to offer. The options are nearly endless, so picking out the best day trips in Virginia can be something of a daunting task. Fortunately, we’ve outlined 12 unique Virginia adventures, one for every month of the year. From winter tubing to whale watching, waterfall hiking, and boot-stomping Bluegrass, this list promises a little something for everyone. You’ll find that when it comes to incredible things to do in Virginia or day trips in VA, there’s simply no shortage. Take a look at our list below and start planning your adventures now! 

Related Stories

These 17 Unique Day Trips in Virginia Are An Absolute Must-Do

Everyone In Virginia Should See Inside The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse

Pocahontas Is An Old Mining Town In Virginia With A Tragic And Haunting History

Well, there you have it: an entire year of enjoying fun day trips in Virginia. Whether you complete all 12 or just a handful, you’re bound to discover a newfound appreciation for our great state. Which of these day trips in Virginia would you enjoy doing? Which would you add to the list? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Looking for more of the best day trips in Virginia? Check out these exciting Virginia road trips .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Virginia in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Virginia!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Best day trips in virginia.

What are the most unique things to do in Virginia?

When it comes to unique things to do in Virginia , there are a few adventures that belong on your bucket list. These include:

• Driving Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park
• Making a stop or two along Virginia's Brew Ridge craft beer trail
• Watching a rocket launch from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility
• Venturing underground to admire the unique formations inside Luray Caverns
• Exploring Natural Bridge State Park
• Spending time at Wintergreen Resort

What are some places in Virginia that only the locals know about?

While many of Virginia's landmarks are famous among tourists, there are still plenty of places in Virginia that only the locals know about . Some of these destinations include:

• Caledon State Park
• Burke's Garden
• Kiptopeke State Park
• Carvins Cove
• Devil's Bathtub

Can I go for a train ride in Virginia?

The state of Virginia is chock-full of railroad history, so it's only fitting that a trip to Virginia today includes at least one scenic train ride. Some of the most popular train rides in Virginia include:

• Amtrak's Northeast Regional Train
• James River Rambler
• Buckingham Branch Autumn Leaf Rambler

Related Articles

• You'd Be Surprised To Learn That Cape Charles, Virginia Is One Of The Country's Best Coastal Towns
• The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Virginia
• 5 Incredible Virginia Day Trips You Can Take By Train
• There's No Community In Virginia More Enchanting And Historic Than Smithfield
• A Charming And Historic Small Town In Virginia, Staunton Is Seemingly Frozen In Time
• Hike To The Tallest Point In Shenandoah Then Dine At A Small-Town Cafe On This Delightful Adventure In Virginia
• You Could Spend Forever Exploring This Virginia Small Town, But We'll Settle For A Weekend
• This Virginia Town Is One Of The Most Peaceful Places To Live In The Country

Explore Virginia

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

16 Best Things to Do in Colonial Beach, Virginia

This Potomac River town boasts award-winning wines, family-friendly festivals, and a rich presidential history.

Erin Gifford is a travel and outdoor writer based in Virginia with 20+ years of writing and editing experience. She has also written three guidebooks on hiking trails in Virginia. 

Getting Around Town

Where to eat, where to stay.

Once called the “Playground on the Potomac,” Colonial Beach is an eclectic small town that is known for its sandy beaches, osprey, murals, and palm trees. Yes, palm trees, which are donated each spring by locals and visitors alike and are the calling card of Colonial Beach. It’s also the birthplace of two U.S. presidents: George Washington and James Monroe.

This one-time resort town with fewer than 4,000 residents sits quietly on a small peninsula about 35 nautical miles from the Chesapeake Bay, boasting warm sunrise views over the Potomac River and vibrantly colored sunsets across Monroe Bay. To be honest, Colonial Beach is still largely a secret, despite a location that’s just 90 minutes south of Washington, D.C . For those in the know, however, it’s worth visiting and the perfect place to scoop up a weekend cottage and relax for a few days. 

Hop Aboard The Trolley

It’s also a cinch to get around Colonial Beach. Jump onto the free trolley that operates from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends during the summer season, picking up riders hourly at 17 stops across town. Given Colonial Beach is barely 4 miles long, it’s completely walkable, too. 

Grab A Golf Cart

This four-block-wide beach town is also noted for its golf carts. Already have one? You’ll fit right in. No golf cart? No worries. Rent one at T and T Golf Cart Rental or Custom Cartz . Golf carts are so popular here that the town has an Instagram-worthy sculpture right on the beach that features what the town holds in high regard—osprey, oysters, love, the flip-flop lifestyle, and sandy shores—all perched atop a golf cart you can pose in.

Visit George Washington's Birthplace

Situated on Virginia’s Northern Neck, Colonial Beach is steeped in presidential history as the birthplace of both George Washington and James Monroe. The George Washington Birthplace National Monument is perched on 550 acres of the old Popes Creek Plantation, where Washington's family had lived since the 1650s. The national monument features a museum, farm buildings, a Colonial Revival-era garden, and two nature trails .

nps.gov , 1732 Popes Creek Rd., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Explore James Monroe's Childhood Home

Just a five-minute drive from Colonial Beach, the James Monroe Birthplace Park & Museum sits on the former peach and apple orchard plantation where the fifth U.S. president grew up and walks visitors through his life during the Revolution and in politics. If you're not yet tired of presidential history, then drive less than 25 minutes from Colonial Beach to James Madison’s birthplace, Belle Grove Plantation , which is now a bed and breakfast. 

monroefoundation.org , 4460 James Monroe Hwy., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Drink Some Wine

Colonial Beach is also a part of the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail , which features nine wineries. Both Monroe Bay Winery and Ingleside Vineyards are a short drive from the five different beaches in Colonial Beach. Ingleside Vineyards notably won a coveted gold medal at the 2023 Virginia Governor’s Cup Awards for its 2021 Albariño.   

monroebaywine.com , 4786 James Monroe Hwy., Colonial Beach VA 22443

inglesidevineyards.com , 5872 Leedstown Rd., Oak Grove, VA 22443

Kick Back With A Craft Beer

For craft beers, you’re covered in Colonial Beach, too, thanks to Colonial Beach Brewing and Ice House Brewery, which also has a small marina where you can park your boat. In 2024, Ice House expects to dock tiny houseboats as overnight rentals, too.

cbb.beer , 215C Washington Ave., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

icehousecb.com , 119 Monroe Bay Ave., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Learn About The Town's History

A few doors down from Colonial Beach Brewing is the Museum at Colonial Beach. It’s a tiny three-room museum that’s only open on weekends, but in it, you’ll find well-preserved town artifacts, like newspaper clippings, photographs, and memorabilia. 

themuseumatcolonialbeach.com , 128 Hawthorne St., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Take A Walking Tour Around Town

The museum is a good starting point for the town’s self-guided walking tour, which features historic buildings, including a church, inns, a general store, and a schoolhouse. Along the way, you’ll spy a dozen colorful murals that speak to the town’s history and heritage, including seashore scenes that depict Colonial Beach’s early days as a resort town. For retail therapy, pop in the shops on Hawthorn Street, including Beach Paws Boutique and Hawthorne Mercantile.

facebook.com/BeachPawsBoutiqueCBVA , 116 Hawthorn St., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

facebook.com/Hawthornmercantile , 116 Hawthorn St., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Enjoy A Festival

Colonial Beach is also a festival town, hosting multiple annual events. First launched in 2019, the Virginia Osprey Festival has quickly become a mainstay for the town and visiting birdwatchers each April. A biker's paradise, the Colonial Beach Bike Fest each fall brings 30,000 people to town for a four-day celebration of all things motorcycles.

virginiaospreyfoundation.org , 427 Washington Ave., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

cbbikefest2.com , 215 Irving Ave. North, Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Spend Time By The Water

Of course, no visit to Colonial Beach is complete without a visit to the actual beach. The town has one of the largest shorelines in the state, with over 2 miles of sandy beaches along the Potomac River. Walk along the boardwalk, swim, go sailing or boating, or catch fish on the Colonial Beach Municipal Pier at the Downtown Beach. Or head a little way up to the quieter North Beach.

If you’d rather cruise on the water, head down to the Colonial Beach Yacht Center. You can also fish, hike, bird watch, swim, and more at Westmoreland State Park, which is only about 25 minutes south of town.

facebook.com/CBYCmarina , 1787 Castlewood Dr. Colonial Beach, VA 22443

dcr.virginia.gov , 145 Cliff Rd., Montross, VA 22520

Hang Out On The Dock

For a small town, Colonial Beach offers a surprising variety of seafood restaurants, coffee shops, tiki bars, ice cream shacks, and even Mexican restaurants, including three taco joints in town. Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar, which sits at the very tip of the peninsula, is a hands-down favorite, thanks to live music, colorful picnic tables, palm trees, thatched tiki umbrellas, and stunning waterfront sunsets. 

docksidetikibar.com , 1787 Castlewood Dr., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Stuff Yourself With Seafood

Wilkerson’s Seafood Restaurant, which you’ll pass as you drive into town on State Route 205, lures you in with its river views, but the seafood is first-rate, too. Wilkerson’s has been a mainstay in Colonial Beach for more than 75 years. Its all-you-can-eat seafood buffet on weekends draws in the crowds. 

wilkersonsseafoodrestaurant.com , 3900 McKinney Blvd., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Order Some Thai

Also try other spots in town, too, like Orchid Thai, which is a block down from the Municipal Pier. It has soup, salad, fried rice, noodles, curry, dessert, and more menu items. There are also plenty of vegetarian options. Or, visit Sunflower Cuisine, which, interestingly, is heralded for its Thai, sushi, and French cuisine. The menu is divided by each country's cuisine, with appetizer, entrée, and dessert offerings for each.

orchidthaicuisinebeach.com , 19 Hawthorn St., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

sunflowercuisine.com , 215 Washington Ave. Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Prep For A Picnic

Also, stop into Circa 1892, which opened in 2023. Named for the year that Colonial Beach was incorporated, Circa 1892 is a gourmet shop that sells wines, cheeses, chocolates, and cigars, as well as artfully crafted charcuterie boards that are perfect for a beach picnic.

circa1892.com , 106 Hawthorn St., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Get Retro At The Riverview Inn

When you want to stay the weekend, look to Riverview Inn, a historic 1950s motel that was refurbished to preserve its classic charm. The uniquely cyan-and-crimson retro-style motel is among the most photographed spots in town, especially its large neon sign on the street corner. 

colonialbeachriverview.com , 24 Hawthorne St, Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Try Something Historic And Charming

Colonial Beach is also home to historic inns, like the Colonial Beach Plaza Bed & Breakfast, as well as many comfortable Airbnbs with vacay-worthy names like Anchors Away, Crab Shack, and Sunnyside Up Cottage. 

colonialbeachplaza.com , 21 Weems St., Colonial Beach, VA 22443

George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Popes Creek .

Virginia Wine. Virginia Governor’s Cup Case Winners . Published 2023.

Related Articles

14 incredible places to visit in Virginia right now

Apr 4, 2024 • 14 min read

Shenandoah Valley is a real stunner – and a perfect place to unwind © WHL / Getty Images

As far as states go, Virginia was at the front of the line when they were handing out amazing attractions. From the Chesapeake shores to the Blue Ridge peaks, this gorgeous land harbors major historic sites, up-and-coming cities, romantic valleys, pre-Revolutionary villages and wine-tasting drives .

You can slurp fresh oysters, learn about US history’s most famous figures, hike to full-circle views, search for wild horses or simply lie out on a stunning beach. How do you tackle a state like Virginia , with its abundance of remarkable sights? Don’t worry: we’ve done the hard work and whittled down the choices to these 14.

1. Shenandoah Valley 

Best for lazy weekends

An Indigenous legend describes the Shenandoah Valley  as a place where “the morning stars placed the brightest jewels from their crowns in the river," and it's truly a sight to behold. The plush, 200-mile-long valley is cradled between the rumpled peaks of the Blue Ridge to one side and the Alleghenies on the other, with the dazzling Shenandoah River meandering its length – a slow-moving ode to a stunning escape.

The best way to experience this mystical realm is simply to roam. I-81 cuts straight through, and it's pretty scenic for an interstate. But take the slower roads – Virginia Rte 11 is a good choice – and poke into little towns along the way: Luray, with its famous caverns ; New Market, site of a Civil War battle fought by Virginia Military Institute cadets; Staunton, full of splendid architecture; and Lexington, home to two universities and plenty of charming shops and galleries, are all good choices.

Check out several museums, including the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, the Virginia Quilt Museum in Harrisonburg and the wacky American Celebration on Parade in Shenandoah Caverns , where parade floats go to die. You’ll find ample wines to sip along the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail, and beers along the Beerwerks Trail.

En route, sample Virginia's abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, camping, fishing, horseback riding or simply gliding down the legendary river by kayak or canoe.

2. Shenandoah National Park

Best for 360-degree views

Straddling the Blue Ridge between Front Royal at I-66 and Rockfish Gap near I-64, Shenandoah National Park harbors dark forests, fluttery mountain laurel and splashy waterfalls. You can drive its length along the 105-mile Skyline Drive, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints over the river-laced Shenandoah Valley to one side and the rolling green Piedmont hills on the other.

It’s especially gorgeous in autumn – and given the amount of bumper-to-bumper traffic you’ll encounter, you’ll have all the time in the world to study the foliage. Spring is gorgeous too, with budding dogwood and redbud trees, plus white-tailed deer, black bears and bobcats roaming its flanks. 

But the best way to experience this national park is on foot. It has 500 miles of hiking trails, including a 104-mile section of the famed Appalachian Trail. Favorites include White Oak Canyon at mile 42.6, a 4.6-mile wander past five waterfalls; Dark Hollow Falls at mile 50.7, a 1.4-mile trek ending at a beautiful waterfall; and the 4-mile hike to Rapidan Camp at mile 52.4, with Hoover’s restored summer White House as the focal point.

The park truly hits its stride with its trails climbing to 360-degree views, and a 2.1-mile round-trip trek up Hawksbill Mountain at mile 46.7 is perhaps the best of the bunch. The 1.5-mile hike up Stony Man from mile 41.7 is another good one. You can camp backcountry or at several campgrounds, or stay overnight at one of the park lodges. 

Check off these incredibly scenic hikes in Virginia

3. Richmond

Best for vibrant neighborhoods

Richmond has been around a long time. Incorporated in 1742, it became Virginia’s capital in 1780 – and the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. Thomas Jefferson designed the Capitol building, and Patrick Henry rattled off his “Give me liberty or give me death” speech at St John’s Church. You can’t throw a history book here without hitting a monument or museum (not that that’s a bad thing).

But today this southern city is making waves not for its past but as an up-and-comer hub, with neighborhoods bursting with gastropubs, homegrown breweries and local boutiques, and outdoor adventures on the James River to boot. Henrico has 600 local restaurants and scores of shops, hotels and historic sites, while a plethora of breweries (Veil Brewing Co., Vasen Brewing, Ardent Craft Ales, etc.) await in Scott’s Addition.

The historic African-American neighborhood of Jackson Ward, home to dancing legend Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, has art galleries, the Black History Museum & Cultural Center and tons of local shops and restaurants. And there’s more – put on your walking shoes and wander this awakening city. 

4. The Colonial Triangle

Best for history buffs

Few places offer such a wide array of places important to US history as the Colonial Triangle, where three major sites – Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown – reveal stories of the nation’s earliest days of European colonization. The historic trio are connected by the Colonial Parkway, a tree-shaded roadway ideal for biking and scenic driving.  

The desperate English struggled to survive at Jamestown, where they landed in 1607 and eked out a living. Here you can visit Historic Jamestowne , where the ruins of the original site are under archaeological excavation, and the adjacent Jamestown Settlement , a living-history museum with the reconstructed 1607 James Fort, a Native American Village and reproductions of the ships that brought colonists to these shores.

Nearby you’ll find the award-winning, 300-acre Colonial Williamsburg , a living-history museum that takes you back to the days when Williamsburg reigned as the Colonial Virginia’s capital. Historical shops, restaurants, and government buildings line reconstructed streets, where costumed interpreters break into role-playing—ask a Black soldier how he self-liberated, or the woman with the cream-white silk hat the best recipe for gingerbread.

And if that’s not enough history, nearby you also have Yorktown , where the Revolutionary War ended. The immersive American Revolution Museum at Yorktown has artifact-filled galleries and a recreated Continental Army encampment out back. And, of course, you’ll learn all about October 20, 1781, the day British and German soldiers surrendered.

5. Chincoteague

Best for horse lovers

The eponymous main town on this Eastern Shore island, Chincoteague (pronounced "shin-co-teeg") has salty, summery charm, with seafood restaurants, ice cream shops, B&Bs and beaches. But the major reason people flock here is to see the wild horses, which live on nearby Assateague Island .

No one knows exactly where they came from – some say they escaped a sinking Spanish galleon in the 17th century, others claim they descend from horses that 17th-century colonists released on the island to avoid taxation. Whatever the case, every July for the past 90-plus years, “saltwater cowboys” have gathered to round up the foals for the swim across the channel from Assateague to Chincoteague. It's an event made famous by Marguerite Henry in her 1947 children’s book, Misty of Chincoteague , and always fun to watch.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge occupies the southern portion of Assateague, and you can see the wild horses there firsthand. A 3.2-mile wildlife loop is primo for biking and walking (it’s closed to cars until 3pm), and spotting migratory birds, such as snow geese and threatened piping plover, along the way. Beaches abound as well.

6. Virginia Beach

Best for fun in the sun

Everyone loves a good beach, and you can’t ask for much better than sunny Virginia Beach  and its not one but two coasts: the Atlantic and the Chesapeake. Expect golden sands, lapping blue waters and plenty of room to sunbathe, play volleyball and splash in the waves. Among its best beaches are secluded Sandbridge, family-friendly Chesapeake Bay and Croatan, popular among surfers.

When you’re tired of the sand, the 3-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk awaits, edged with casual restaurants, four oceanfront stages and vendors offering bike and surrey rentals. A separate path is great for strolling, rollerblading and biking. A year-round slate of events adds more fun in the sun, including the East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic in April, the East Coast Surfing Championship in August and the Holiday Parade at the Beach in December.

Enjoy the golden sands at these top beaches in Virginia

7. Arlington National Cemetery

Best for paying your respects

More than 400,000 stark-white tombstones stripe Arlington’s green hillsides, the burial place of veterans from the Revolutionary War to present-day conflicts. Originally the land belonged to Robert E Lee, but it became a Union cemetery after he fled to fight for the South in 1864, never to return. Today more than three million tourists pass through Arlington National Cemetery every year.

A tour begins at the visitor center, where you can pick up a map and catch a tram to visit the cemetery’s sites. (Or you can walk – be forewarned, it’s hilly!) Just up the hill is the gravesite of John F Kennedy Jr, where the 35th president lies beside his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy, and his two brothers Robert and Edward; an eternal flame flickers 24/7. Nearby, stolid soldiers stand guard by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with the changing of the guard taking place around the clock in an elaborate ceremony.

All presidents are eligible to be buried here, though there are only two: JFK and William Taft. Other prominent Americans include Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, heavyweight champ Joe Louis and astronaut and senator John Glenn. In Section 27, almost 4000 formerly enslaved individuals are buried on land that was once known as Freedman’s Village, Arlington’s first free neighborhood.

On the hill above looms Lee’s former home, Arlington House . It’s been reinterpreted to tell the fuller story of the Lees and the enslaved people who built the residence and worked here.

8. Blue Ridge Parkway

Best for scenic drives

Smoky mist billows over the timeworn peaks of the Blue Ridge, an ancient range meandering from Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The sinewy, two-lane Blue Ridge Parkway ambles 469 miles along its length – nearly 200 miles of which are in Virginia. You have no choice but to slow down; the speed limit is 45mph, all the better for taking it all in.

Highlights include Peaks of Otter at milepost 85.6, where three shadowy peaks overlook Abbott Lake and its lodge, restaurant and historic farm; Roanoke Star atop Mill Mountain, a fun hike just off milepost 120; and historic Mabry Mill at milepost 176, a photographer’s delight. Along the way, you’ll discover a bygone world of trail-laced forests, forgotten farms and stupendous vistas.

Get behind the wheel on these scenic US road trips

9. Manassas National Battlefield

Best for Civil War history

If you’re searching for Civil War action, look no further than Virginia. As the capital of the Confederacy, located near the capital of the Union, Virginia tussled its way through more than 2000 “military events” – more than any other state in the country.

Some of the biggest battlefields are here, a top gun being Manassas National Battlefield Park (aka Bull Run), where two major battles unfolded in 1861 and again in 1862 – both Confederate wins. But it's perhaps best known for the Washingtonians who jumped in their carriages on the eve of Manassas I and brought picnics to watch the skirmish – they expected a slam-dunk victory, but ended up witnessing the first major engagement in the long four-year struggle.

Today the battlefield is an undulating green landscape, with hiking trails, historic sites and tours. Begin at the Henry Hill Visitor Center, where you can watch an orientation film and gather info. Take a self-guided walking or driving tour from here; guided tours are also available. Don’t miss the still-standing Stone House, which served as an aid station.

10. The villages of Northern Neck

Best for foodies

Virginia oysters are fast becoming a national obsession, and you can slurp them down at their point of origin all along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline – there are  eight dedicated routes  extolling the beloved mollusks. That said, the best place to experience oysters is the Northern Neck, a peninsula east of Fredericksburg, where latter-day oystering villages – including Irvington and Kilmarnock – are sprinkled across the genteel stream-crossed landscape. While oysters still support the economy, these villages also buzz with art galleries, trendy restaurants and freshly painted inns. 

Go to the source at Rappahannock Oyster Company , a mom-and-pop shop in Topping that ships its oysters nationwide. You can visit the oyster nursery, where babies (known as “spat”) grow in buckets, and dine plein air at Merroir restaurant, serving up the sweetest varieties of the local specialty. Or try them at Hope and Glory Inn ’s oyster bar in Irvington, which specializes in wine-and-oyster pairings. 

And oyster aren't just food around here: you'll find custom-designed jewelry in Kilmarnock made with oyster shells, historic workboats at the Reedville Fishermen’s Museum  including the skipjack Claud W Somers, once used for oyster dreading in the bay and now offering sails June through October. And here’s a really interesting one – in Weems, you can even see the shells mixed with the plaster covering the entire vaulted interior of Historic Christ Church , dating from 1735.

The clincher is the Wine and Oyster Festival, which takes place in Stratford Hall, typically in the fall, and features a score of local oyster growers (and chances to sample).

11. Old Town Alexandria

Best for pre-Revolutionary War vibes

Virginia does pre-Revolutionary towns exceedingly well, and Old Town Alexandria , founded in 1749, is hard to beat. Centuries ago, George Washington wandered these streets, discussing revolutionary thoughts with Thomas Jefferson and John Adams at Gadsby’s Tavern  (now a restaurant and museum) and attending services at the still-active Christ Church.

More than 200 buildings from the town's earliest days edge its tree-shaded streets, with historic houses providing glimpses of bygone days. French and Indian War strategies were hashed out at  Carlyle House ; the Freedom House Museum  relates stories of enslaved individuals who passed through the nation’s second-largest slave-trading city; and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum  has a whimsical potions-mixing attic.

But this is also a city that’s alive with a modern-day vibe, showcasing trendy restaurants and boutiques up and down humming King Street. At the foot of King, the Potomac waterfront offers buskers, waterside restaurants, pathways and parks, plus the Torpedo Factory Art Center , an actual former torpedo factory now housing 82 artist studios. It’s the kind of place to sit and stay awhile. 

12. Middleburg

Best for a posh getaway

A genteel country town centered on horses and wine , Middleburg is a weekender’s delight. Established in 1787, its one main street has historic buildings shoulder-to-shoulder, holding restaurants, cafes, boutiques, antique shops, galleries and the esteemed Red Fox Inn and Tavern . The rest of town comprises a few side streets that are fun to investigate as well.

Many famous figures have found their way here, including Jackie O, who rode horses and lived on the outskirts of town; a plaque honors her at the garden next to the Pink Box (the village info center and museum). The Middleburg Spring Races draw thousands, as does Christmas in Middleburg, with a parade and the Middleburg Hunt & Hounds Review. 

Two noted wineries await nearby: Chrysalis Vineyards , growing the world’s largest planting of the indigenous Norton grape, and Greenhill Winery , producing robust reds. Both have wine-tasting in farm winery settings. If wine’s not your thing, pop into Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery and Lost Barrel Brewing instead.

13. Tangier Island

Best for getting away from it all

The only way to visit Tangier Island , in the middle of the Chesapeake, is by seasonal ferry from Reedville or Orancock (or Crisfield, Maryland). You’ll arrive at a lost-in-time isle, where prim New England–style cottages with white-picket fences dot the flat, marshy landscape, and the one pedestrian road is traveled by foot, bike or golf cart. 

For centuries, locals have eked out a living oystering and crabbing, and you’ll discover fishers' shanties on the water, as well as crab traps, one grocery store and two restaurants. No movie theaters, fast-food joints – or, well, anything modern, including mobile phone service. 

If you listen carefully, you’ll pick up the slight Elizabethan brogue in the locals’ speech, a legacy of long-ago English settlement; most folks here trace their heritage back to the island’s founding families of the 17th and 18th centuries.

You can spend the day, or overnight at one of the few B&Bs. Whatever the case, have lunch at Hilda Crockett’s Chesapeake House , where island fare like clam fritters, crab cakes, hot corn pudding and pickled beets is served community style. Note: the entire island is dry, so you'll have to BYOB.

Keep planning your trip to Virginia:  Add these experiences to your trip's itinerary Discover the state's most majestic scenery at these national parks Plan the ultimate road trip on these scenic routes

This article was first published Apr 26, 2022 and updated Apr 4, 2024.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Apr 4, 2024 • 6 min read

If you’re planning that big trip to Florida, read our tips on planning, etiquette and health and safety considerations in the Sunshine State.

Apr 4, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 25, 2024 • 10 min read

Jan 22, 2024 • 12 min read

Sep 23, 2023 • 11 min read

Apr 21, 2023 • 4 min read

Mar 18, 2023 • 6 min read

Feb 9, 2023 • 7 min read

Things To Do | Virginia Beach tees up summer with adventure…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)

e-Pilot Evening Edition

• Restaurants, Food and Drink
• Home and Garden
• Lottery numbers and winners
• Games and Puzzles

Things To Do

Things to do | virginia beach tees up summer with adventure sports, reggae festivals and more this weekend.

This weekend is jam-packed with a smorgasbord of events from action sports in the sand to reggae concerts on two stages and a military “village” on the Boardwalk.

“There really is something for everyone this weekend,” said Erin Goldmeier, the city Convention & Visitors Bureau spokesperson.

At the south end of the beach, the inaugural Point Break reggae festival featuring Sublime, Rebelution, Stephen Marley, Wiz Khalifa, Steel Pulse and more will be held Saturday and Sunday at 5th Street. The ticketed event features local vendors and food and drink options.

Sublime headlining Virginia Beach music festival this weekend with son of band’s original lead singer on vocals

At 17th Street, military equipment will be on display and personnel on hand for USO Experience. It includes a hovercraft on the sand and free concerts in 17th and 24th street parks.

On the beach at 31st Street and in the newly refurbished Neptune’s Park, Jackalope adventure sports festival will continue through Sunday. The free event, in its second year of a three-year contract with the city, features skateboarding, bouldering, freestyle motocross, BASE jumping and skimboarding. A lineup of local artists and DJs also will perform in the park.

This year’s skateboard halfpipe is bigger than last year at 60 feet wide and 15 feet tall. It’s the same style vert ramp used in the X Games, according to G.Ramps, the German company that assembled the prefabricated pieces of the U-shaped ramp on the beach this week.

Also, California Skate Parks built an elaborate street park on the sand with free-style obstacles for skaters of all ages and abilities who are registered for the event. It’s covered in smooth concrete and has a pirate theme with a crow’s nest, treasure box and a plank.

”We’re excited to see all the skaters have fun once we’re done,” said Kyle Daley, project manager, who was putting the finishing touches on Thursday afternoon.

California Skate Parks is currently building a street park for the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris, Daley said.

It took a week to build the Virginia Beach one. By Thursday, the crew was painting some of the surfaces and adding special effects in the treasure box under a warm, sunny sky.

”It gets hot, but you get a nice tan,” Daley said.

Virginia Beach’s own skateboard prodigy Collin Graham will be among skaters from around the world at Jackalope. Organizers say last year’s event held during windy, cool weather drew 50,000 people. This weekend’s forecast shows mostly clear skies and temperatures in the 70s.

For festivalgoers, the best bet for parking during the busy weekend will be the municipal garages and lots at $20 per day. Virginia Beach residents can park for $3 after 5 p.m. Public parking lots and metered street parking at Rudee Loop are closed. Grommet Island Park will still be accessible via the Boardwalk bike path’s southernmost end, according to the city.

With all the activity this weekend and throughout the summer at the Oceanfront, the city has set up a text notification service for event updates and emergency alerts. Text VBEVENTS to 67283.

For Point Break tickets, visit pointbreakfestival.com ; for USO experience concert schedule, visit beacheventsvb.com ; and for the Jackalope schedule, visit jackalope.tribu.co/virginia-beach .

Stacy Parker, 757-222-5125, [email protected]

More in Things To Do

Home and Garden | The amazing, industrious mushroom: Showing now

Pets and Animals | Rare twin elephants in Thailand receive monks’ blessings a week after tumultuous birth

Daily Horoscope for June 14, 2024

Travel | 6 reasons I prefer cruises when I travel with family

Trending nationally.

• Disneyland union files charges over Mickey Mouse raised fist buttons
• Chicago begins evicting entire migrant families from city shelters
• Emergency crews respond to floor collapse at Pa. elementary school
• Foreclosure auction of Kevin Spacey’s Baltimore home postponed as actor says he is millions in debt
• Apple worker’s tax form left on office printer showed he made $10,000 more than a woman doing the same job. Now she’s suing.