Virginia Beach, a coastal city in southeastern Virginia, lies where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. A 3-mile boardwalk stretches along its beach-lined oceanfront. The bayside First Landing State Park marks the 1607 arrival of the Jamestown colonists from England. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center exhibits ocean life including sharks, rays and sea turtles in globally themed habitats. ― Google
Spring (March–May): Mild weather, blooming gardens, and outdoor festivals.
Fall (September–November): Stunning fall foliage in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park.
Summer (June–August): Great for beaches and lakes, though warmer and more humid.
Winter (December–February): Cooler temps, fewer crowds, and winter sports in western parts.
By Air:
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Norfolk International Airport (ORF)
By Train:
Amtrak serves cities like Richmond, Alexandria, Norfolk, and Williamsburg.
By Car:
Major highways include I-95, I-81, I-64, and I-66.
Scenic drives: Blue Ridge Parkway, Colonial Parkway, and Skyline Drive.
Historic sites:
Colonial Williamsburg: Living history museum with reenactments.
Mount Vernon: George Washington’s estate.
Jamestown Settlement: America’s first permanent English colony.
Monticello: Thomas Jefferson’s home near Charlottesville.
Arlington National Cemetery: Important historic and military site.
Natural attractions:
Shenandoah National Park: Skyline Drive, hiking trails, waterfalls.
Blue Ridge Mountains: Scenic views and outdoor adventures.
Virginia Beach: Atlantic coast beaches and boardwalk.
Luray Caverns: Stunning underground cave system.
Great Falls Park: Waterfalls and hiking close to D.C.
Cities:
Richmond: Capital city with vibrant arts, museums, and Civil War history.
Alexandria: Colonial charm and waterfront dining.
Charlottesville: University of Virginia and nearby wineries.
Norfolk: Naval base, museums, and waterfront parks.
Hiking & nature: Trails in Shenandoah, George Washington National Forest, and along the Appalachian Trail.
Beach activities: Surfing, sunbathing, fishing, and boating at Virginia Beach.
Wine tasting: Virginia wine country near Charlottesville and Loudoun County.
Historical tours: Guided tours of battlefields, plantations, and colonial towns.
Festivals: Virginia Wine Festival, Neptune Festival (Virginia Beach), and Richmond Folk Festival.
Kayaking & paddleboarding: On rivers like the James and Potomac.
Luxury:
The Jefferson Hotel (Richmond)
The Salamander Resort & Spa (Middleburg)
The Graduate Charlottesville
Mid-range:
Boutique inns and B&Bs in Williamsburg, Charlottesville, and Virginia Beach.
Chain hotels throughout cities and tourist areas.
Budget:
Motels and budget-friendly hotels near beaches and highways.
Camping in national and state parks.
Unique:
Historic inns and plantation stays.
Cabins and lodges in the mountains.
Must-Try Virginia Foods:
Virginia ham
Blue crab and seafood (especially Chesapeake Bay)
Oysters
Peanut soup
Apples and apple cider
Smithfield ham biscuits
Top Restaurants:
The Inn at Little Washington: Michelin-starred fine dining.
The Blackbird (Richmond): Farm-to-table Southern cuisine.
The Shack (Virginia Beach): Casual seafood.
King’s Arms Tavern (Williamsburg): Historic dining experience.
Colonial heritage: Deeply woven into the state’s identity with living history and preservation.
Southern hospitality: Friendly, welcoming communities.
Military influence: Home to major bases and the Pentagon.
Music & arts: Bluegrass, folk, and classical music are popular, with vibrant arts scenes in Richmond and Charlottesville.
Outdoor lifestyle: Hiking, fishing, and beach culture are prominent.