From the mountains to the coast – with miles of rolling countryside, small towns, and vibrant cities in between – Virginia offers a wealth of lovely landscapes to explore.
The commonwealth is fairly compact and crisscrossed by major interstates, making it ideal for day trippers. Whether you have just a few hours or a free weekend, here are some of the best road trips in Virginia.
Enjoy Stunning Mountain Vistas on Blue Ridge Mountain Scenic Roadways
Front Royal to Roanoke; 225 miles
Searching for breathtaking mountain vistas? Two renowned Virginia roadways were designed for pleasurable drives: the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. Both roads wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains, meeting at Afton Mountain at Interstate 64. Skyline Drive goes north through Shenandoah National Park, while the Blue Ridge Parkway heads south into North Carolina. (The Parkway is free; there is a $30 entrance fee for vehicles on Skyline Drive.)
Both roads encourage leisurely drives, with speed limits of 25 to 35 miles per hour. You could easily spend days exploring scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic spots, stopping for the night in nearby towns like Staunton, Lexington, and Bedford.
Sip Fine Reds and Whites on the Monticello Wine Trail
Barboursville to North Garden; 32 miles
With more than 300 wineries across Virginia, you’re never far from a tasting room. There are numerous wine trails to explore, with the Monticello Wine Trail standing out. Situated among the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this pastoral region is known as the birthplace of American wine. You’ll find 40 wineries in the compact area surrounding Charlottesville, most inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s vision of winemaking. Renowned wineries include Pippin Hill, Barboursville, Veritas, Keswick, and King Family Vineyards. Tracking your progress allows you to enjoy the wine tasting experiences along this scenic route.
Travel Back in Time on the Colonial Parkway
Yorktown to Jamestown; 23 miles
Explore Virginia’s rich colonial heritage with a tranquil drive on the Colonial Parkway. This 23-mile drive connects Yorktown, Williamsburg, and Jamestown, known as the commonwealth’s historic triangle. The route is free of commercial development, allowing for unobstructed views of habitats ranging from coastal woodlands to rivers. Visit sites such as America’s first permanent English colony at Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg, and enjoy a meal or overnight stay in the quaint historic district of Williamsburg.
Slurp Chesapeake Bay Oysters Along the Northern Neck
White Stone to Colonial Beach; 66 miles
For those seeking a waterfront escape with a side of oysters, the Northern Neck is a hidden gem that’s typically quieter than the coast. Part of Virginia’s River Realm, where the Rappahannock and Potomac rivers meet the Chesapeake Bay, this peninsula is dotted with charming fishing villages and pristine shoreline.
Enjoy scenic back roads, and consider bringing a map if you lose cell service. Highlights include slurping oysters at Fish Hawk Oyster Bar, sipping wine at Dog & Oyster Vineyard, and hunting for ancient shark’s teeth at Westmoreland State Park.
Escape the DC Hustle on the Georgetown Pike and George Washington Memorial Parkway
Mount Vernon to Great Falls; 37 miles
One of the most popular road trips from DC, the Georgetown Pike and George Washington Memorial Parkway are scenic roads just outside the nation’s capital. The Georgetown Pike, Virginia’s first scenic byway, winds through dense woodlands alongside the Potomac River. Discover sites like Riverbend Park, Great Falls Park, and Mount Vernon.
Go from Beach to Beach Along Virginia’s Eastern Shore
Norfolk to Chincoteague; 112 miles
The Eastern Shore is a wild stretch of coastline that floats between the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Starting in Norfolk, you’ll hop on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel – known as one of the Seven Man-Made Wonders of the World. US Route 13 takes you up the Shore, with chances for quick detours.
Be sure to stop by Kiptopeke State Park for beachcombing, visit Cape Charles for fresh seafood, and explore Onancock for coffee and shopping. Cap off your journey in Chincoteague and Assateague, where you can admire the island’s famous wild ponies.
