Virginia’s Timeless Appeal: Cultural Heritage, Historic Landmarks, and Family Fun
We know the old adage that Virginia is for Lovers, but the truth is, Virginia is for everyone. It has mountain ranges, national parks, historical sites, countless museums, beaches, and a plethora of activities both indoors and out to keep any type of traveler entertained. Its timelessness matches the history preserved within its borders, and we’re unpacking all the unique things to see and do across the state.
Explore Virginia’s timeless appeal through these must-see sites.
Shenandoah National Park
The expansive Shenandoah National Park is tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Established in 1935, the stunning scenery has been enjoyed by visitors flocking to the area ever since. You won’t be able to see it all in one trip (or many), but the 200,000-acre stretch of land encompasses plenty of things to see and do. Hop on a stretch of the Appalachian Trail, breeze down Skyline Drive (which offers stunning views of the valley and mountains), enjoy hiking the more than 500 miles of trails, spot wildlife and birds, or pitch a tent and stay for a while at one of the many campgrounds onsite.
nps.gov/shen/index.htm
Virginia Beach
Swap the mountains for the beach in Virginia Beach, a vibrant coastal town on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. While the sun and sand may be calling your name, be sure to visit some of the landmarks sprinkled throughout town. Stroll down the iconic, three-mile-long Virginia Beach Boardwalk that’s riddled with shops and restaurants, snap a photo at the Cape Henry lighthouse, or grab your binoculars and head to the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Whether you prefer a relaxing coastal getaway with days spent playing golf or sinking your toes in the sand, or you’re looking for a hybrid of relaxation and nightlife, Virginia Beach is the place to be.
visitvirginiabeach.com/
Norfolk’s Nauticus Museum
Feeling nauti? Head to Norfolk for a maritime deep dive at the Nauticus museum. This science center focuses on education, science, technology, and history, with the USS Wisconsin battleship at its center. The ship served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War, so there’s much to learn when it comes to this beautiful vessel. Visitors can also expect to peruse exhibits covering naval history, oceanography, how ships are built, and the marine life native to the area. Be sure to check the events calendar before your visit, as the museum regularly hosts events and activations for various seasons.
nauticus.org/
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The ocean is an impressive place, and you can learn a massive amount about marine life at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach. Dedicated to both conservation and education, the Center houses tons of exhibits to accomplish their goal. There’s an area dedicated to marine life native to the Chesapeake Bay area, one that explores Earth and the solar system, an outdoor coastal marsh habitat, and an impressive underwater tunnel that runs straight through the aquarium itself offering 360 degree views of the animals swimming around. If you feel like getting even more up close and personal, the museum also offers boat tours that will take guests out into the Atlantic for marine life spotting in the wild.
virginiaaquarium.com/
Alexandria
The historic town of Alexandria is a destination in and of itself, located right by Washington, D.C. Expect to find a town preserved in time, with a stunning Old Town that boasts architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries, cobblestone streets, and plenty of historic sites. One of those is Mount Vernon, the historic estate that once belonged to George Washington. While it’s not in Alexandria itself, it’s a must-visit when in the area. Back in Old Town, hop aboard the King Street Trolley that runs from the waterfront to the King Street Metro Station, offering excellent views of the town along the way. There are plenty of shops, galleries, and eateries in the area to fuel you as you explore.
visitalexandria.com/
Spring Festivals
Spring is a lovely time to visit Virginia, not only do the natural landscapes come to life, but there are a number of seasonal festivals that leverage the beauty of spring in the Old Dominion state. Bordering Washington, D.C., the annual Cherry Blossom Festival draws a massive amount of crowds to enjoy the blooms each year, and is a worthwhile detour during your trip to Virginia. In the state itself, catch the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival in Reston, the Virginia Arts Festival in Norfolk, the Leesburg Flower and Garden Festival in Leesburg, or the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival in Winchester. Check Visit Virginia’s calendar for other festive happenings across the state during spring and beyond.
Science Museum of Virginia
Immerse yourself in the sciences at the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond, an experience equally as interesting as it is educational. Explore exhibits like Speed: an homage to all things motion and time, or Boost: which uses hands-on games to strengthen both mind and body. This spring, the museum will debut Discover Steampunk, which delves into the history of 19th-century innovators. In addition to the exhibits, visit the Dome Theater for IMAX-like films and experiences, see live science demonstrations, and the Gottwald Science Theater planetarium. While the museum is sure to delight children, all ages will enjoy the immersive experiences and educational opportunities available.
smv.org/
National Air and Space Center
Shoot for the stars at the Air and Space Science Center, a Smithsonian facility that houses the world’s largest and most significant collection of aviation and space artifacts. It’s so big, it spans two buildings! Join the more than eight million visitors each year to see the impressive collection of artifacts – which surpasses 60,000 objects – including Saturn V rockets, jetliners, gliders, space helmets, microchips, and much more. In addition to major aircraft, there are thousands of recorded documents housing images and historical information about space flight. Check the calendar before your visit, because the museum regularly hosts lectures, family days, and seasonal events all year long.
airandspace.si.edu/
Virginia Safari Park
No need to jet across the world for a safari adventure, the Virginia Safari Park has you covered. At this unique experience, you can drive through the plains to view – and even feed – wild animals. The property spans 180 acres and houses animals like zebras, camels, bison, elk, ostriches, and many more. If you prefer a walk through experience instead, opt to feed giraffes on foot, observe bengal tigers up close, and see your farmyard favorites in the petting zoo. There are plenty of other unique animal encounters onsite, like two-toed sloths, African penguins, and rhinos.
virginiasafaripark.com/
Virginia Living Museum
What’s a living museum, you ask? It’s a destination for exploring all types of life, from aquatic critters to wildlife, birds, human science, botanicals, and space. There are plenty of exhibits onsite to keep you entertained at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News, including the Abbitt Planetarium that explores astronomy, the Dinosaur Discovery Trail, living gardens, an aquarium, and more, all collectively housing more than 245 different species of animals. There’s also an extensive education program here as the facility often welcomes students to study. On weekends, check out special programs like safaris to nearby caves, swamps, and fossil banks in Virginia.
thevlm.org/
