Discover Virginia: 25 Stunning Destinations You Must Visit

As the saying goes, Virginia is for Lovers, and there exists much to admire in a state that encompasses a plethora of remarkably beautiful locations, ranging from tranquil Atlantic beaches to the picturesque Appalachian mountains.

Virginia’s abundant history lends it a certain tranquil charm, observable in the colonial architecture of Williamsburg and Alexandria, along with the private estates of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, two of the eight presidents originating from this state.

One notable aspect of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia is the accessibility to several truly remarkable sites.

First, Skyline Drive traverses the ridge within Shenandoah National Park for more than 100 miles, connecting at its southernmost point with the Blue Ridge Parkway, which extends from one breathtaking overlook to another for over 200 miles through its Virginia segment.

1. Shenandoah National Park

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Leading my list is a national park that occupies a substantial portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Long and relatively narrow, Shenandoah National Park follows the backbone of the range, with Skyline Drive as its core artery.

This represents a road trip of a lifetime, featuring up to 75 scenic overlooks along just over 100 miles of roadway.

From such elevation, one can observe the vast Shenandoah Valley on the west side, and the Piedmont plateau to the east, with endless vistas of autumn foliage that will leave you speechless during fall.

The same remarkable rocky outcrops visible along the road are also present on the Appalachian Trail, which follows the ridgeline across 101 miles within the park and is integrated into a 500-mile trail system.

If you have time for only one brief hike from Skyline Drive, the Dark Hollow Falls Trail leads you to the base of a 70-foot cascade nestled within a hardwood forest.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

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Rather than being a singular location, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway offers a series of captivating experiences, initiating where Skyline Drive concludes at Rockfish Gap and meandering through splendid mountain scenery for nearly 217 miles before entering North Carolina.

On average, the Blue Ridge Parkway boasts a designated scenic overlook for every 2.69 miles; however, the allure extends far beyond a succession of mountain viewpoints.

To illustrate the impressiveness of the locations along America’s Favorite Drive, many of the sites mentioned within this article are adjacent to this National Parkway.

For instance, the Peaks of Otter and Roanoke are notable halts, in addition to the scenic Humpback Rock featuring idyllic farmland settings, the pristine Sherando Lake, and the enchanting water-powered Mabry Mill.

3. Charlottesville

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For a refined aesthetic experience, one cannot overlook Charlottesville, widely recognized as Virginia’s cultural nucleus and among the most desirable places to reside in Virginia.

A prominent historical figure associated with Charlottesville is the third president and polymath, Thomas Jefferson, who constructed his estate, Monticello, on the outskirts of the city.

Moreover, Jefferson was the founder and planner of the University of Virginia (UVA), which has now been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside his residence.

In Charlottesville, visitors are introduced to Jefferson as an icon of enlightenment, and his philosophies are reflected in everything from the area’s historic architecture to the curriculum at UVA.

It is essential to remember that enslaved individuals were instrumental in constructing much of what visitors see today, ensuring the smooth operation of both Monticello and UVA all the way through the Civil War.

Charlottesville acts as a major hub for entertainment, shopping, and fine dining; additionally, it benefits from its position in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring vineyards, equestrian facilities, and abundant opportunities for outdoor activities.

4. Luray Caverns

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Officially recognized as the largest cavern attraction on the East Coast, Luray Caverns represent an essential diversion along the Skyline Drive of Shenandoah National Park.

These chambers, celebrated for their dazzling assortment of stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstone, have astonished visitors since their discovery by Euro-Americans in 1878.

Particularly noteworthy is the abundance of flowstone drapery here, with the mesmerizing Saracen’s Tent being a standout due to its ethereal quality.

Additionally, Dream Lake, whose surface is so reflective that it conceals actual depth (measuring only 20 inches), concludes the self-guided tour at the Great Stalactite Organ—a functional musical instrument utilizing the cave’s formations and spanning 3.5 acres.

As a suggestion, I recommend bringing a long-sleeved garment during summer visits, as the temperature within Luray Caverns remains a constant 54 °F year-round.

On the surface, a few more attractions can be explored, including the Car & Carriage Museum and the living historical site of Shenandoah Heritage Village.

5. Great Falls Park

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Located just 14 miles upstream from Washington, D.C., the Potomac River descends through a series of rugged cascades spanning approximately 500 feet before entering the narrow Mather Gorge.

A section of the Virginia bank of the Potomac is a National Park Service location, providing ideal vantage points of this unexpectedly rugged natural feature.

Visitors can explore Great Falls via 15 miles of trails; however, as an admirer of historic infrastructure, I am also intrigued by the human historical significance of the area.

The park encompasses the Patowmack Canal, constructed in the late 19th century to navigate this perilous stretch of river.

This was the first waterway in the United States to employ a lock system, operational until 1828. From spring through fall, the east-facing walls of Mather Gorge exhibit some of the most developed rock climbing opportunities in the vicinity.

6. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

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In my assessment, the most picturesque coastal landscapes in Virginia can be found on the 37-mile Assateague Island, which extends into Maryland.

The Virginia segment is safeguarded as the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, comprising 14,000 acres of pristine sandy beaches, dunes, salt marshes, and patches of maritime forest thriving on ancient dunes.

Enhancing the island’s wild charm is the Chincoteague pony, a breed of feral horse likely present since the 17th century, subsisting on salt marsh foliage and shrubs.

Throughout the year, approximately 320 birds nest or transit through the national wildlife refuge, with the handsome year-round resident being the snowy egret, often seen foraging in the salt marsh.

7. Natural Bridge State Park

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Thomas Jefferson was such an admirer of this natural marvel that he acquired the property in 1774 and entertained guests for many years thereafter.

Earlier, it is believed that Natural Bridge was surveyed by a young George Washington in the mid-18th century, potentially leaving behind the initials G.W. carved into the rock.

Captured by numerous landscape artists in the 19th century, this majestic natural arch stands at 215 feet high, spanning 90 feet wide. The formation constitutes a karst gorge, shaped by Cedar Creek over countless millennia.

While Natural Bridge attracts visitors, there are multiple other reasons to explore the state park, including the 30-foot Lace Falls, the rugged vistas along the gorge, and a replica village constructed for the Monacan Native Americans, who revered the Natural Bridge as a sacred site.

8. Peaks of Otter

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This journey through Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway is an enchanting experience, and I would recommend extending your stay to fully engage with this trio of prominent summits, once lauded by Thomas Jefferson.

He even posited that they were the highest in North America. While we possess better knowledge today, it remains clear why the Peaks of Otter made such a profound impression. Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill are all situated on National Park Service territory.

The most striking of these is Sharp Top, accessible either by undertaking a challenging 1.5-mile hike to its summit, gaining an elevation of 1,300 feet, or opting for a shuttle bus that brings you significantly closer to the peak.

Before embarking on your exploration, I suggest visiting the visitor center, where you can obtain a trail map detailing the seven routes on the peaks, showcasing a waterfall, breathtaking crags, meadows, lakes, riparian areas, and patches of old-growth forest.

9. Williamsburg

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Established in 1632, Williamsburg served as colonial Virginia’s capital from 1699 until 1780. In the 1920s, it became the setting for an extensive historic restoration initiative.

The outcome is Colonial Williamsburg, the most frequented visitor destination in Virginia, comprising hundreds of restored or reconstructed structures spread across over 300 acres.

One particularly intricate project was the reconstruction of the Governor’s Palace (1706), which was also the residence of Thomas Jefferson during his gubernatorial term following the Revolution. Jefferson received his education at Williamsburg’s College of William & Mary, founded in 1693.

The Sir Christopher Wren Building (1700), designed by the architect responsible for London’s St Paul’s Cathedral, is recognized as the oldest academic building in continuous operation in the United States. Williamsburg is part of the Historic Triangle, which also includes Jamestown and Yorktown—both mere minutes away and laden with early American history.

10. Virginia Beach

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On the southern fringe of Chesapeake Bay resides a vibrant coastal city characterized by expansive sandy beaches that stretch 300 feet wide.

The name itself indicates a prime location for a coastal retreat in Virginia. What immediately stands out is the linearity of the shoreline, extending into the horizon both north and south.

For three miles, the beach is complemented by a lively boardwalk, which runs a complete 40 city blocks, creating a vibrant atmosphere for socializing and observing the activity on a summer day.

For a more tranquil experience, Sandbridge Beach, located approximately 15 miles down the coast, offers a cursed, dune-adorned stretch of paradise.

11. Grayson Highlands State Park

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Virginia’s highest point, Mount Rogers (5,729 ft), rises adjacent to this area of stunning elevated wilderness.

The mixed evergreen and hardwood forests could easily be mistaken for alpine surroundings; however, the most enchanting vistas, in my opinion, are found on the balds.

These expansive mountain meadows, accentuated by craggy cliffs, provide an atmospheric experience. Grazing within these meadows is a herd of wild ponies, which enhance the allure of this unique landscape; however, they should be admired from a respectful distance.

The Grayson Highlands can be a challenging climate; thus, it is essential to stay informed of weather conditions.

12. McAfee Knob

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One of the premier short hikes along the Appalachian Trail leads you to this elevated rocky outcrop, situated 3,197 feet above sea level.

McAfee Knob is regarded as the most photographed spot along the entire trail, protruding from the Catawba Valley and showcasing a 270° panorama that includes the Roanoke Valley to the east, Tinker Cliffs to the north, and North Mountain to the west.

Should you manage to embark on the hike during early or late hours, you will be rewarded with an astonishingly beautiful vista.

The hike spans eight miles in total, departing from the parking area to the south. It is advisable to carry ample water and ideally visit on a weekday to avoid large crowds.

13. George Washington’s Mount Vernon

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With both grandeur and historical importance, George Washington’s estate is situated along the Potomac River, approximately 15 miles south of the nation’s capital.

Expert restoration efforts have returned the interior of the Palladian mansion, constructed in 1758, to its original appearance during the residence of the first president and his spouse.

As you tour the house and its grounds, you will uncover numerous intriguing details. A particularly interesting piece of trivia is that the boxwood hedges lining the entry path originate from cuttings first planted by George Washington in 1786, imported from England.

Visitors gain insight into life on an 18th-century farm through costumed historical interpreters, a fully functional blacksmith shop, and heritage breeds of horses grazing in the riverside fields.

The estate holds space for contemplation, as there are quarters designated for the enslaved families of Mount Vernon, alongside a preserved burial ground for enslaved men, women, and children.

14. Alexandria

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Located downstream from Washington, D.C. on the Potomac, Alexandria is a charming waterfront city founded in 1749.

A significant portion of this area’s allure arises from Old Town Alexandria, the third oldest historic district in the United States, filled with elegant 18th and 19th-century townhouses lining cobblestone streets and red-brick sidewalks.

The atmosphere on King Street, a mile-long thoroughfare where many of the city’s dining establishments, museums, and shops are concentrated, is especially inviting.

The waterfront features a 1920s torpedo factory that has been repurposed into an art studio complex, alongside a water taxi that transports visitors along the Potomac, connecting Alexandria, Georgetown, and National Harbor MD.

15. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

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This expansive, humid swamp once encompassed a million acres south of Chesapeake, extending into North Carolina.

Although a significant portion of the Great Dismal Swamp has been lost due to development, a substantial area has been preserved as a national wildlife refuge, spanning over 110,000 acres.

Recognizable by the noble bald cypress trees visible on foggy Lake Drummond, this quintessential southern swamp exudes a more ethereal beauty compared to the Appalachian mountain landscapes.

Visitors can traverse vast sections of the refuge via boardwalks or embark on a boating journey along the Dismal Swamp Canal, excavated at the turn of the 19th century.

The birdlife is remarkable, with over 220 species recorded during the spring migration, while summers attract more than 65 species of butterflies.

16. Natural Tunnel State Park

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It can be challenging to comprehend a natural limestone cave of such grand proportions that it serves as a railroad tunnel.

This astounding natural feature, extending 850 feet in length, 200 feet in width, and rising 80 feet high, has been shaped over countless thousands of years through dissolution and erosion by an underground river.

The Natural Tunnel has mesmerized visitors for over a century, with the frontiersman Daniel Boone believed to be among the first Euro-Americans to witness this stunning site.

While guided tours of the cave are available, it is equally important to take time to marvel at the expansive limestone ridge, defined by its wide chasm framed by towering pinnacles.

17. Roanoke

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The Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway closely border this charming city, enveloped in breathtaking mountain scenery.

To emphasize this fact, Mill Mountain—a prominent peak located within city limits—rises sharply over the Roanoke River.

Since 1949, the summit has been adorned with a memorable landmark: the world’s largest freestanding manmade star, standing 88.5 feet tall and visible from 60 miles away.

The overlook near the Mill Mountain Star provides a nearly vertical view of downtown Roanoke, framed by a hazy ridgeline in the distance.

Renowned for a burgeoning culinary and craft beverage scene, Roanoke serves as a welcoming base for outdoor adventures, whether hiking, biking, or paddling.

18. First Landing State Park

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This coastal area, situated at the entrance to Chesapeake Bay, attracts more visitors than any other state park in Virginia.

Near the site where Christopher Newport and the Virginia Company colonists first disembarked in 1607 before establishing Jamestown, First Landing State Park features an exquisite beach, gentle dunes, cypress swamps, salt marshes, lagoons, and delicate maritime forests.

The beach faces into the bay, providing protection from the more turbulent Atlantic surf, creating calm waters ideal for swimming and paddleboarding, particularly for children to enjoy safely.

The comprehensive diversity of ecosystems within the park can be explored along 19 miles of trails, with options to extend your visit through camping or cabin accommodations.

19. Maymont

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In the 1920s, the affluent couple, James and Sallie Dooley, donated their grand Victorian estate to the citizens of Richmond.

Perched above the James River, Maymont offers a delightful experience, showcasing its opulent mansion, a captivating Japanese garden, a terraced Italian Renaissance garden, as well as a variety of newer attractions that have rendered it a vital and enjoyable destination throughout the past century.

For instance, there exists a set of wildlife habitats wherein visitors can observe species native to Virginia, including bison, elk, black bears, and a selection of birds of prey.

Maymont Farm presents a pastoral slice of Virginia in an urban environment, featuring various farm animals such as goats that can be fed by hand.

20. Devil’s Bathtub

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Located within the Appalachian Mountains in the westernmost region of Virginia, the Devils Fork Conservation Area safeguards over 4,500 acres of rocky wilderness, explored via trails and former logging routes.

This remarkable landscape features a location of unique natural beauty known as the Devil’s Bathtub—a natural swimming hole featuring crystalline aquamarine waters and curving layered rock formations.

There are actually two pools, both fueled by waterfalls, with the main swimming hole accessible by navigating the first set of falls.

I advise against hiking during periods of heightened water levels, as conditions may become perilous following extended wet weather.

21. Burke’s Garden

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The Appalachian Trail runs alongside the rim of this enormous ovate depression atop a mountain.

Nicknamed “God’s Thumbprint,” this lush, crater-like feature represents the highest valley in Virginia, situated approximately 3,000 feet above sea level.

Burke’s Garden was formed when subterranean limestone caverns collapsed, yielding a depression measuring 8.5 miles in length and 4.5 miles across.

With mountain ridges visible from every vantage point, and a diverse mixture of hardwoods, fertile farmland, marshland, and grass prairies, it is a critical diversion in Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains.

The landscape is best appreciated on a bicycle along a designated 12-mile loop, and there are also splendid views of the basin from the Appalachian Trail.

22. Breaks Interstate Park

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Nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, on the VA/KY boundary lies a misty gorge, named by Daniel Boone during his travels in 1767.

Here, the winding Russell Fork has sculpted an enormous “break” into the sandstone, creating a depth ranging from 830 to 1,600 feet over five miles. A network of trails connects with State Route 702, leading to various breathtaking overlooks.

This unique joint-operated state park offers a selection of amenities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a lodge with over 80 rooms, a large campground, and a visitor center featuring exhibits on the gorge’s history and ecology.

During weekends in October, a substantial volume of water is released from the John Flannagan Dam and Reservoir upstream, producing exceptional conditions for whitewater rafting.

23. Sand Cave, Ewing

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My recommendation for a lesser-known destination lies within the expansive regions of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, situated in the distant western part of Virginia. If one is prepared to hike a four-mile journey, you can reach geological marvels.

At Sand Cave, erosion has sculpted a broad sandstone overhang, presenting a massive chamber measuring 250 feet across.

True to its name, the floor of this natural dome is covered in sand, and visitors can gaze upward to appreciate the unusual erosion patterns and colorful rock formations.

For an exceptional photograph, venture towards the rear of the cave, where a stunning view of the lush forest can be captured through the cave’s opening. The Sand Cave trail is merely a short hike from the high ridge at White Rocks, situated along the VA/KY boundary, offering views encompassing all three states.

24. Westmoreland State Park

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This property imparts a gentle beauty, resting on a wide and dynamically shifting section of the Potomac River.

Westmoreland State Park features about 1 ½ miles of shoreline, with sandy beaches interspersed with sedimentary cliffs.

Horsehead Cliffs provide a clear line of sight across the water to Maryland and are particularly remarkable for the fossils they yield at lower elevations, shaped by the tides.

Fossil Beach, located on the eastern side, is an engaging destination for enthusiasts searching for shark teeth, and discoveries can be made without the need for paleontological expertise.

There are cabins and campsites available during the summer, and noteworthy historical points of interest are the birthplaces of George Washington and Robert E. Lee, located just a few minutes away.

25. Staunton River State Park

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Concluding my list is a slice of serenity along the largest freshwater body in Virginia. Kerr Lake spans approximately 50,000 acres and was created by the John H. Kerr Dam, which was completed in 1952.

The state park’s development dates back to the 1930s, devised by the Civilian Conservation Corps at what was then the confluence of the Staunton and Dan Rivers.

Visitors are drawn to this peaceful locale for camping, water activities, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding along over 17 miles of multi-use trails.

The park’s magnificence truly emerges after sunset, as it is designated an International Dark Sky Park, transforming it into a stargazer’s paradise in this sparsely populated sector of Virginia.