What Are The Major Tourist Attractions in Virginia?

Virginia boasts some of the best tourist attractions the East Coast has to offer. From the sandy beaches of the Eastern Shore to the Appalachian mountains in the West, Virginia has something for everyone. From world-renowned historical sites to awe-inspiring views, we here at Virginia Tourism Company have compiled a list of all the must-see places that Virginia has to offer. Whether you’re visiting Virginia with family, friends, or on a solo trip, this guide will help you plan your Virginia vacation and make sure you don’t miss out on the amazing attractions this state has to offer.

Historic Sites and Museums

Virginia is home to some of the most important historical sites in America. From Monticello, which is the home of Thomas Jefferson, to Montpelier, which was home to James Madison and is now a National Trust for Historic Preservation site, Virginia is necessarily rich in historic sites. If you’re interested in American history, then there is no better place to be than Virginia. Monticello: Home to Thomas Jefferson, Monticello is a Virginia landmark that has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Named “Little Mountain,” this neoclassical mansion perfectly embodies Jefferson’s desire for a “home of the Enlightenment.” The estate was a popular destination throughout Jefferson’s lifetime and remains hugely popular today. Monticello websiteColonial Williamsburg: Established in 1699, Colonial Williamsburg is a living-history museum depicting life during the Colonial period. Visitors can explore the living-history museum that includes revolutionary and colonial-era buildings and demonstrations by actors dressed in 18th-century costumes. It’s a great way to gain an insightful look into America and its history. Colonial Williamsburg website Arlington National Cemetery: Situated across the Potomac River from Washington D.C., Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines who have died in service to their country. It also contains many of the gravesites for notable American citizens and heroes, as well as special memorials for those who had an impact on American culture and history. Visitors can tour this solemn site that is filled with rich history and many unique monuments. Arlington National Cemetery website

Outdoor Attractions

Virginia is blessed with some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, from its rolling hills and majestic mountains to its sand dunes and white-sand beaches. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for adventure or a nature lover looking for a peaceful escape, Virginia has something for you. Shenandoah National Park: Spanning 200,000 acres, Shenandoah National Park sits atop the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwestern Virginia. It’s one of America’s most dramatic national parks, with stunning views from sections of Skyline Drive that overlooks parts of five states, as well as vast meadows with wildflowers and deer, cascading waterfalls, and old-growth forests. The popular trails on the White Oak Canyon Trail, Old Rag Mountain Trail, and Rapidan Camp Trail provide an opportunity to experience the park’s breathtaking beauty. Shenandoah National Park websiteAssateague Island National Seashore: Located off the coast of Maryland and Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Assateague Island National Seashore is a 37-mile long barrier island teeming with nature preserves and wildlife refuge areas. Known for its wild horses (which can be seen roaming the beach) and its white-sand beaches, Assateague Island National Seashore is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Assateague Island National Seashore website Prince William Forest Park: Located just south of D.C., this 15,000-acre park contains over 30 miles of biking trails and 30 miles of hiking trails with sights like panoramas of deep woods valleys and covered bridges over tranquil brooks along the way. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful stroll while also offering challenges for experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous adventure. Prince William Forest Park website

Cultural Attractions

From vibrant art scenes to bustling music venues and innovative theatre companies, Virginia is no stranger to culture. There is an abundance of exhibits, live performances, and festivals throughout cities like Richmond and Hampton Roads that are sure to delight someone from all walks of life. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: The VMFA is one of the largest comprehensive art museums in the United States with a collection of more than 30,000 works of art from around the world ranging from ancient antiquities to boom contemporary artworks. The museum features pieces from African American art and photography as well as works from renowned artists like Claude Monet and Edgar Degas, making it a destination rich in culture and art that lets everyone experience great works from civilizations past and present. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts website Virginia Beach Boardwalk: Located along the Atlantic Coastline, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk stretches for three miles lined with bars and restaurants where you can listen to live music or enjoy some local seafood dishes while watching amazing sunsets over the ocean. There’s also plenty of shopping opportunities during the day or night as well as many festivals and events like concerts that take place throughout the year at nearby parks located along along the boardwalk like Neptune’s Park and 24th Street Park that make it another must-see destination for anyone visiting Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach Boardwalk websiteAs you can see from this guide there are so many great options available when it comes to finding things to do in Virginia. Whether you are looking for an outdoor getaway or visiting a historical site there is something for everyone here in this remarkable state. This makes Virginia an ideal location for a great vacation spot no matter what kind of traveler you are!