Virginia is a state located on the Atlantic Ocean coast next to Washington, D.C., full of contrasts and surprises, offering both historical richness and breathtaking landscapes.
This state offers countless attractions for every traveler. Charlottesville, home to Monticello, the residence of Thomas Jefferson, provides a unique insight into the life and legacy of one of the Founding Fathers. Colonial Williamsburg takes visitors back to colonial times, presenting the history and culture of that era. Arlington House, located near Washington, D.C., offers an opportunity to explore the history and heritage of George Washington. The National Park Service of Virginia, which includes Shenandoah National Park, is an exceptional place for outdoor activities, discovering the beauty of nature and wildlife. Virginia not only surprises with its diverse nature but also with numerous cultural and entertainment attractions. Whether you are a nature lover, history enthusiast, or looking for family fun, Virginia will captivate and provide unforgettable experiences. Therefore, if you are planning a trip to Washington, D.C., Virginia is a state worth visiting as well.
In this article, we present a list of the 10 most interesting attractions and must-see places in Virginia. Discover the most beautiful spots in Virginia with us!
Top Tourist Attractions in Virginia, USA
1. Shenandoah National Park
When visiting Virginia, we recommend Shenandoah National Park, one of the 10 most exciting attractions in Virginia—an ideal place for nature lovers. This park offers many beautiful routes to explore, including numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning landscapes. The most famous route is Skyline Drive, which offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Plan your next hike or bike ride along one of the 10 beautiful trails in Shenandoah National Park to experience unforgettable adventures in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Dark Hollow Falls
One of the most scenic spots in Virginia is Dark Hollow Falls, located in Shenandoah National Park. The waterfall is easily accessible via a short, though somewhat steep, trail leading directly to its base. A walk to Dark Hollow is a perfect way to spend an afternoon in nature.
Shenandoah Valley
Shenandoah Valley is one of the most picturesque places in Virginia. It is located within Shenandoah National Park, offering numerous hiking trails, viewpoints, and camping sites. The valley also boasts wonderful vineyards and farms where you can sample local products.
Stony Man Lookout
Stony Man Lookout in Shenandoah Park offers one of the best panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail to the viewpoint is short and accessible to most tourists.
Rose River Falls
Rose River Falls is another beautiful waterfall in Shenandoah National Park. The trail to the waterfall is scenic, winding through forests and rocky terrain, offering stunning views along the way.
2. Hampton Roads
Hampton Roads is a complex of cities and towns located in southeastern Virginia. This area is known for its rich military history, beautiful beaches, and numerous museums. Among the attractions in Hampton Roads, Nauticus, a maritime museum, and the historic USS Wisconsin ship are worth mentioning.
3. Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a popular vacation destination with beautiful, wide beaches. It offers numerous attractions, including a boardwalk with restaurants and shops, the Ocean Breeze water park, and the chance to observe dolphins.
4. Kings Dominion
Kings Dominion is a popular amusement park offering a wide range of attractions for the whole family, including roller coasters, carousels, and water rides. It’s a perfect place for fun and relaxation.
5. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)
Located in Richmond, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) boasts a rich collection of art from antiquity to modern times. Interestingly, VMFA holds one of the largest and most diverse art collections in the U.S. The museum is renowned for its collections of American, European, Asian, African, and Indigenous art. Additionally, VMFA is known for organizing prestigious temporary exhibitions and conducting extensive educational activities, including workshops, lectures, and cultural events, attracting visitors from around the world.
6. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach is a fascinating place for the entire family. It offers interactive exhibits, aquariums with exotic fish, and the opportunity to observe marine animals in their natural habitat.
7. Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns are the largest caves in the eastern United States. They are known for their impressive rock formations and underground lakes. Visiting Luray Caverns is an unforgettable adventure.
8. Richmond International Raceway
Richmond International Raceway is a mecca for motorsports enthusiasts. NASCAR races are held here, attracting thousands of fans from across the country.
9. Virginia Horse Center
Located in Lexington, the Virginia Horse Center is a hub for equestrian sports, hosting numerous competitions and horse shows. This place attracts horse lovers from all over the world.
10. Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery spans 639 acres—it is the final resting place of over 400,000 American soldiers and their families, symbolizing sacrifice and service to the country. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the changing of the guard ceremony are particularly moving experiences. The cemetery also contains the graves of prominent figures, such as President John F. Kennedy. The beautiful landscapes and architecture create an atmosphere of dignity and tranquility. Events and ceremonies, like Memorial Day, provide opportunities to honor heroes and gain a deeper understanding of national history.
Interesting Facts About Virginia
- Virginia was the first permanent English colony in North America, founded in 1607.
- This state is often called the “Mother of Presidents” because eight U.S. presidents were born in Virginia.
- Virginia is home to the Pentagon, the largest office building in the world.
- According to the latest data, approximately 62% of the state is covered by forests.
- Virginia is divided into 95 counties and has 39 independent cities. This means they have their own governments and manage their local affairs independently of the counties they may belong to.
- Yorktown is a historic town in Virginia that played a key role during the American War of Independence. In 1781, the decisive Battle of Yorktown took place here, leading to the formal end of the war after British General Cornwallis surrendered to American and French forces.
- Richmond became the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War (1861–1865).
- Utilizing attractions such as the Appalachian National Park, western Virginia offers countless places to spend time, where you can discover the most exciting attractions along the Atlantic coast.
- In Jamestown, an ancient colonial settlement, you will find the best attractions and tours that provide an unforgettable encounter with U.S. history.
- The Potomac River, which flows through Virginia, witnessed many key events in U.S. history, including George Washington’s crossing in December 1776 during the American Revolution.
- Alexandria Old Town is a place where you can see that the old buildings hold much history, with some over 200 years old.
FAQ
Which state is Virginia located in?
Virginia is a state, which is located on the east coast of the United States, bordering West Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky.
What attracts tourists to Virginia?
Virginia attracts tourists with its rich history, beautiful landscapes, national parks, beaches, and numerous cultural attractions.
What should everyone know about Virginia?
Virginia is a state rich in history, with many landmarks and historical sites. It also boasts beautiful landscapes, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coast. The state offers numerous attractions for tourists, regardless of their interests.
Where can I find tourist reviews about Virginia?
GetYourGuide classifies attractions in Virginia, carefully selecting and describing them to ensure tourists have unforgettable experiences. User reviews and ratings help other travelers choose the best attractions, making GetYourGuide a valuable source of information and inspiration when planning a trip to Virginia. On their website, you will find the best attractions and tours for 2024 that the region in Virginia is known for.
Is Mount Vernon worth visiting?
Mount Vernon is a historic estate on the banks of the Potomac River in Virginia, which was the home and residence of George Washington, the first president of the United States. An interesting fact is that Mount Vernon is one of the most popular and visited historical sites in the U.S., attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists annually from all over the world, eager to see how George Washington lived and worked. The estate has been carefully restored and preserved in its original style, showcasing the life of the president and his family in the 18th century.
Virginia offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler!
Discover the most popular excursions in Virginia thanks to the official website: https://www.virginia.org! Choose the most interesting tour for you in just a few clicks.
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