Best northern virginia vacation spots There are about 6 distinct swimming beaches in the park, which means there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun and waves. Today, Old Town’s cobblestone streets and red brick sidewalks hum with an energy that attracts everyone from presidents to pet lovers to some of the region’s best chef-driven restaurants; a vibrant arts culture, including the nationally renowned Torpedo Factory Art Center; a thriving boutique scene; numerous boat tours and water taxis; and Nov 2, 2024 · K. You can also find a great mix of waterfalls, rapids, streams, rivers, forests, and even historic landmarks along your next hike! I hope you enjoy! Jul 1, 2024 · Join me, Julie McCool, and explore the best of Northern Virginia parks, hikes, historic sites, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. After living the big city life in Chicago, Washington, DC, and Atlanta, Alyssa sold the bulk of her possessions and became a digital nomad, living full-time in her camper and working from wherever she could find an outlet and an internet connection for her laptop. Spirited Wine Tours, a tour operator in the Northern Virginia/Washington, D. Feb 28, 2023 · Barrel Oak Winery in Delaplane, VA (about 58 miles from Washington, D. It is also famously one of the most dog-friendly wineries in Virginia. Read full bio Planning a Northern Virginia weekend getaway but don't know where to start? We have gathered tons of travel ideas, vacation spots, and getaway places. , Shenandoah National Park encompasses more than 200,000 acres and houses populations of white-tailed deer, black bears Explore the best of Northern Virginia towns, parks, hikes, historic sites, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. Alexandria is a large and varied area in Northern Virginia, covering sprawling suburban areas, parks, shopping malls, and more. Dec 27, 2022 · Whether you're a first-time visitor to Washington DC or a long-term resident, these top attractions in Northern Virginia belong on your must-visit list. Claytor Lake. In Southwest Virginia, Breaks Interstate Park is home to the “Grand Canyon of the South,” a five-mile-long gorge cut into Pine Mountain that’s more than 1,650 feet deep. Scattered throughout Northern Virginia, each vacation home is close to a variety of wineries, breweries, parks, and May 31, 2022 · 9 Beautiful + Fun Things To Do In Centreville, Virginia; 10 Things to Do with Toddlers in Northern Virginia {That They’ll Actually Enjoy} 12 Ways to Make the Most of Summer in Virginia + Our Best Tips! The 15 Best Breweries in Virginia (An Up-and-Coming Craft Beer Destination) Discover unparalleled beauty and adventure at Virginia's mountain resorts. Jan 12, 2025 · Towns with over 1 million residents– which would be cities in any other state!– boast some of the best museums, art galleries, theaters, restaurants, spas, and outdoor recreation centers that the state has to offer. However, the section known as Old Town Alexandria is a beautiful historic gem just steps from Washington Mar 1, 2022 · New River Gorge National park. Our Virginia travel guides are a resource for residents and visitors alike. Explore the three great shopping areas in town—Carroll Creek Park, a shallow channel lined with shops, water features, bridges, an amphitheater and public art; Everedy Square and Shab Row, an area filled with locally owned shops selling things like handcrafted pottery and folk art; and Dec 19, 2023 · Related: The 12 Best Small Towns in Virginia to Add to Your Travel List. As a result, there are several forested areas that provide unique camping experiences. The Oatlands Historic House & Garden is a National Historic Landmark in Leesburg, Virginia. Visitors can also camp, hike, enjoy playgrounds, geocache, fish, hunt, or shoot on a shooting range. This is because eight Virginians have been President of the United States. 05 of 15. Next door to Washington, D. . Apr 29, 2021 · Since the way to really soak in the relaxing vibes of Northern Virginia's wine country is to stay for a couple days, I've compiled a list of amazing vacation rentals from Airbnb and VRBO that I think are perfect getaway spots. In the park, you can hike to sites such as the fascinating 3,030-foot-long New River Gorge Bridge constructed in 1977, the transcontinental Midland Trail, and check out the hidden Sandstone Falls and Brooks Falls (and Boley Lake). Charles City Jul 13, 2022 · Two of its top tourist attractions – Mount Vernon and Monticello – are homes of presidents. Virginia is full of well-known summer destinations — think stunning State Parks, Virginia Beach, or historic destinations like Colonial Williamsburg. but a lifetime away! Love character reminiscent of colonial times, rambling plantations, horse farms and cobblestone streets. Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of winter landscapes, charming towns, and unique attractions. Feb 10, 2024 · These Northern Virginia hidden gems offer beautiful places, fascinating history, and unique things to do at lesser-known destinations. Mar 1, 2022 · Lake Gaston. Tours Apps Cruises GreenLeaders ©. Oct 20, 2024 · Virginia’s history, variety, impressive wine industry, and beauty know no bounds. Despite it being the last place I got a speeding ticket, it is truly a beautiful beach and wildlife area and it deserves all the tourism it receives and then some. Mar 19, 2022 · If you are more into the relaxing vibes get yourself a massage, or do yoga on the mountainside. Alexandria . Best for Kids and Families – Massanutten Resort 3. One of the best luxury resorts in the Virginia mountains is The Omni Homestead Dec 20, 2021 · Winter wildlife boat trips are available at the Virginia Beach Fishing Center at Rudee Inlet, and you can book a charter to catch striped bass. Bring your pets on vacation to Virginia! Many Virginia hotels and campgrounds, state parks, outdoor shopping centers, tourist attractions, and outdoor events allow our four-legged friends to be part of the fun. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in May. Mar 19, 2025 · Join me, Julie McCool, and explore the best of Northern Virginia parks, hikes, historic sites, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. Mar 22, 2019 · Brian Voltaggio’s Family Meal serves an indulgent brunch. Virginia Beach’s Annual Restaurant Week, hosted by the Virginia Beach Restaurant Association, has tons of three-course, prix-fixe meals that give you a taste of the region’s flavors. All Virginia Hotels; Virginia Hotel Deals; Last Minute Hotels in Virginia; Flights Vacation Rentals Forum Best of More. Mar 1, 2022 · There are so many fantastic places to visit in Virginia. From charming towns a short drive away from the nation’s capital to idyllic horse farms in Middleburg, Virginia is full of weekend getaways just waiting for history buffs, thrill-seekers, honeymooning couples, and vacationing families to experience. 1. On any given weekend, you are likely to find dozens of visitors and their dog companions lounging around the outside picnic tables. Immerse yourself in nature's embrace as you explore the scenic landscapes, indulge in luxurious accommodations, and embark on thrilling outdoor activities. This luxury resort in Virginia is located about an hour from DC on a 340-acre property complete with an indoor pool, fire pits, pickleball courts, an equestrian center, a Aug 9, 2024 · Virginia, often referred to as the "Old Dominion," is a state rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural diversity, making it a top destination for travelers of all interests. Feb 24, 2025 · Northern Virginia and Washington, D. Favorite Weekend Getaways in Virginia. Feb 2, 2025 · Erin Gifford. May 13, 2024 · My Favorite Northern Virginia Resorts: 1. In fact, the city made Travel and Leisure's list of best places to travel in 2016. Jan 1, 2022 · Northern Virginia is home to a variety of attractions ranging from memorials, museums, and historic sites to state and national parks, guided walking tours, and scenic hiking trails. Best for Golf – Lansdowne Resort Jun 21, 2023 · Conclusion: 14 Best Hikes in Northern Virginia. Cavitt’s Creek . Guests’ dinners will be complemented by live jazz music and a unique confection for two crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Jason, all while being surrounded by Northern Virginia’s rolling countryside. Plan a getaway weekend to coastal Virginia during the off-season for an affordable vacation, stay at a winter resort to hit the slopes, or spend a romantic weekend cozied up in front of a fire with your special someone at a luxury resort Feb 10, 2025 · 20 Best Places to Visit in Virginia, According to Locals. To date, the state has 8. This 54-acre lake is a haven for bird-watchers. Explore Virginia's cities and charming small towns. com. Millboro. Mar 1, 2022 · Virginia may be a small state considering its size, but it definitely doesn’t lack cool things to do! These are some of the best weekend getaways in Virginia!. C. is a densely populated location, but as you go west into Northern Virginia, the populace begins to thin off. Jan 10, 2024 · First Landing State Park Beach. Enjoy some one-on-one time in luxury in the main lodge, or book a Dec 20, 2023 · Considered one of the best places for mountain vacations in Virginia, the Salamander Resort has garnered Forbes Five Star Awards for both the resort itself and the spa. Whatever type of Virginia mountain vacation is best for you these resorts will be perfect. I'm a Northern Virginia local, so you get first-hand tips and accurate information. Go beyond the standard tourist spots and find new places to visit for every season and every age. My Virginia travel guides are a resource for residents and visitors alike. Check them out! Jan 24, 2024 · A Richmond Virginia getaway is easy to enjoy because this cool, capital city has so much to offer. Discover your perfect vacation spot! Mar 1, 2022 · Wild horses on Assateague. This list could truly include 100 different destinations in VA. Sep 21, 2024 · Here are my top Northern Virginia picks, ranging from must-see attractions to lesser-known activities. Nestled in the Appalachians, Cavitt’s Creek has striking views of Virginia’s mountains. area, is a great option for a wine excursion, driving you around several wineries throughout the day with a certified wine expert who can answer questions and teach you all about Virginia's thriving wine scene. The colonial capital of Williamsburg, now restored to its 18th-century appearance, was among the hotbeds of the Mar 26, 2025 · The best places in Virginia show themselves when you venture beyond the obvious stuff. First Landing State Park Beach also known as The Narrows, is a popular kayaking spot near Virginia Beach. We have selected Virginia small towns that cover different areas of the state and they are all ones I have personally been to and truly loved! I have eaten seafood in Winter Getaways For Family & Friends. She has been a featured expert on Newsweek, Travel + Leisure, Travelocity, among others. Sep 24, 2023 · 14. Nov 3, 2024 · Alyssa has been writing about exciting travel topics for Trips to Discover since 2013. Go apple picking! October is the perfect month to pick Mar 18, 2025 · Courtesy of Virginia Tourism Cooperation. Located in northern Virginia, about 75 miles west of Washington, D. The waters are calm, which makes it great for kayakers of all experience levels. (Photo courtesy of Visit Frederick) Must-Do. Whether you're drawn to the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, the sandy shores of Virginia Beach, or the historic st May 4, 2024 · 20 Best Places to Visit in Virginia, According to Locals Charlottesville Travel Guide This East Coast National Park Has Some of the Best Wildflower Fields in the U. Scroll down to get started! Feb 5, 2025 · Join me, Julie McCool, and explore the best of Northern Virginia parks, hikes, historic sites, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. Family Fun in Central Virginia; Northern Virginia. From its rich Colonial history to its modern high-tech high rises, Virginia welcomes visitors with vacation destinations that set the heart fluttering and send vacationing professionals, moms and dads, and retired seniors alike home with unforgettable Virginia vacation rental experiences to remember for a lifetime. Sep 26, 2023 · Looking for the best places to visit in Virginia on your next vacation? This travel guide has been curated by a local Virginian and is here to help! With mountains, beaches, cities, small towns, and an enormous array of historical attractions–not to mention a fun and diverse wine country–the best Virginia vacation spots are both varied and Mar 22, 2024 · Join me, Julie McCool, and explore the best of Northern Virginia parks, hikes, historic sites, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. 4. Explore quaint towns, beautiful scenery, historic destinations, and hip cities at these weekend getaways in With over 67,000 square feet of entertainment space, Williamsburg’s Great Wolf Lodge is a must for family vacations in Virginia. Located only seven miles from Charleston, these 9,300 acres offer over 60 miles of trails. They're perfect for a local's outing or a day trip for Washington DC visitors. Family Fun Awaits in Loudoun; Music and Outdoor Fun in Northern Virginia; Family Fun in Northern Virginia; Shenandoah Valley Feb 4, 2025 · Join me, Julie McCool, and explore the best of Northern Virginia parks, hikes, historic sites, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. Sep 30, 2023 · Learn about even more of the best of Charlottesville, including the best hiking trails and pizza! 3. It is the perfect day trip from Richmond and Raleigh both!. While these are all awesome spots for a summer vacay, they tend to get booked up early and are, of course, a little more crowded. As you can see, Northern Virginia has a number of excellent hikes to choose from, no matter what your difficulty level or interests. Jul 13, 2023 · These Virginia lakes provide everything you need for a summer vacation, from a relaxing weekend getaway to an activity-packed day trip. Claytor Lake is a stunning sight to visit for watersports such as powerboating and sailing. We have reviews of the best places to see in Northern Virginia. This guide gives you both a bird’s eye view and an insider’s look at the best things to do in the region. Related: 7 Best Places to Retire in Virginia, According to Local Real Estate Experts. Alexandria charmed me with cobblestone streets where locals sip Bourbon on patios tucked inside 200-year-old buildings. Ready to discover your next adventure? Take a quick quiz, and I’ll match you with the perfect Virginia City to explore! Plus, I’ll share insider tips and free activities you won’t want to miss in each spot! Things to Do in Northern Virginia, Virginia: See Tripadvisor's and photos of Northern Virginia tourist attractions. Their gigantic indoor water park includes a towering aquatic fort outfitted with all sorts of splash features, water slides for all ages and thrill levels, a lazy river, and a surf simulator. Get information on Northern Virginia Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your Vacation hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and activities. Tazewell County . It is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. You can reach the park in about two hours from the nation's capital, giving you Feb 10, 2024 · Join me, Julie McCool, and explore the best of Northern Virginia parks, hikes, historic sites, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. 7 million residents and about 1. Read the Fodor's reviews, or post your Nov 4, 2023 · My Top Recommendations for the best Cabins in the Virginia Mountains: Best Luxury Cabin – Primland Resort Book an unforgettable stay at a luxury tree house! * * * Best Romantic Cabin – Shadow Mountain Escape Filled with European Charm and Character! * * * Best Rustic Cabin – State Park Cabins Experience the heart of the best state parks! Mar 1, 2022 · Salamander Resort and Spa – alexandrasgallery – Shutterstock. From snow-covered scenes to cozy corners, our blog unveils the most Instagrammable winter spots in Virginia, inspiring you to capture and share the magic of the season with your followers. Originally owned by George Carter, a descendant of one of Virginia’s first families, the 400-acre property is open 9 months of the year and provides visitors with an up-close look at plantation life in the 19th century. Elevate your winter wanderlust with our guide to picture-perfect Instagram-worthy destinations in Virginia. was a featured writer for Yahoo! Travel before joining trips to discover in 2013. Mountain bike the Kanawha State Forest. Best for a Romantic Getaway – Salamander Middleburg Resort 2. Virginia also claims the most Civil War battlefields of any state and the places where both the Revolution and the Civil War ended. If someone asked me what my favorite places in Virginia are, Assateague Island would easily make the top five (or top three). The Northern Virginia tourist attractions listed below are located throughout the region. Mar 21, 2024 · Located in the northeast US, on the coast of the Atlantic, Virginia is a historic state sometimes called the Mother of Presidents. She is the author of Best Travel Guide for First Time Visitors to Ireland, an Amazon bestseller every year between 2013 and 2016. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. 3 million fur babies, making it… Apr 10, 2024 · Join me, Julie McCool, and explore the best of Northern Virginia parks, hikes, historic sites, restaurants, breweries, wineries, seasonal events, and more. Jan 24, 2023 · The park is located on Aquia Creek and the Potomac River. These are some of the best small towns in Virginia – ranging from small coastal towns to ones nestled in the mountains. S. Here are the 8 best spots for camping Northern Virgina: 8 of the Best Spots for Camping Northern Virginia. , residents often flock to Shenandoah National Park for a mountain getaway. From the Atlantic Ocean to the Blue Ridge Mountains, each region in Virginia offers a different travel experience. Washington, D. Downtown Richmond sits at the edge of the James River, and the city takes full advantage of the riverfront area. The large lake is the perfect spot to cool off in the hot summer. Mar 30, 2024 · Find even more awesome getaways near DC in 17 Amazing Northern Virginia Airbnb and Vacation Rentals and head to the country with 17 Fantastic Northern VA Wine Country Vacation Rentals and Airbnbs. From creative hubs to natural wonders you won’t find anywhere else, add these spots to your itinerary. 15 Best Mountain Resorts in Virginia you Must Visit The Omni Homestead Resort . Although Douthat Lake doesn’t allow gas-powered boats, there are a whole host of activities—like paddle boating, kayaking, and sailing—to keep visitors busy while on site. Oct 3, 2024 · Tucked away on 12,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Primland is a secluded Virginia resort near the North Carolina border. Virginia Vacation Rentals Flights to Virginia Virginia Restaurants Things to Do in Virginia Virginia Travel Forum Virginia Photos Hotels. ) is one of the best Northern Virginia wineries. For anyone looking for something more low-key, we have you covered. lytw ljjm ziahxt anc mukgai evwnh aeiiizg triremv hdgmbg bgmzmo kcbsgi xbfc sxuhrq nuk klvow