By: Frayed Passport
One of the best benefits of a road trip is seeing the land you’re in with a level of intimacy and detail you don’t get if you skip the drive and fly instead. If you want to experience the America that so many of us feel disconnected from nowadays, then the Old Dominion is worth exploring. History, small-town charm, and natural beauty await—here are some highlights you should make time to see!
Step Back in Time in Williamsburg
Image by JamesDeMers from Pixabay
Colonial Williamsburg is one of the country’s most immersive historic sites. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported directly to the 18th century with the cobblestone streets, preserved buildings, and costumed performers recreating daily colonial life. You can learn from the tales of the American Revolution while enjoying the craftsmanship and community life. Williamsburg also has plenty of modern charm, from breweries and boutique shops to delicious restaurants serving your favorite meals—not to mention the thrills of Busch Gardens!
Enjoy the Coastal Charms of Virginia Beach
Photo by Daniel Halseth on Unsplash
If you want to get away from city life for a little while, then Virginia Beach could be just the change of pace that you’re looking for. A popular coastal city that’s not completely jam-packed, you can enjoy a nice, relaxed vibe on the boardwalk and beachfront. Virginia Beach delivers classic beach-town energy with plenty of room to unwind. If you’re interested in the ecological side of the coast, then the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a must-see. The Oceanfront area is a fabulous attraction for travelers who want a more energetic scene, with live music and family-friendly entertainment all around.
Get Cultured in Richmond
Image by Barry Plott from Pixabay
Visiting the capital of a given state is one of the best ways to see how well its artistic and cultural scene is thriving, and Richmond is no different. Old-style cobbled streets exist in tandem with bright street murals and craft coffee shops. With a laid-back but artistic vibe, neighborhoods like Carytown give you a wonderful blend of off-the-wall shopping, live theater, and indie spots for evening dining and entertainment. Are you a history buff? You’ll find no shortage of landmarks, from the American Civil War Museum to the historic Church Hill district. If you’re in the mood for nature in the city, take a walk or go whitewater rafting along the James River Park System.
Seek the Idyllic Charm of Fairfax
Photo by ajay_suresh on Wikimedia Commons
For many people, the charm of simple, small-town life seems like it’s becoming a rarity among ever-developing cities and soulless suburbs. Home to many of the commuters to the nation’s capital, Fairfax has maintained a unique small-town charm with a heavy dose of cultural richness, thanks to the historic Fairfax Courthouse, the boutiques and restaurants of Old Town Fairfax, and the nearby George Mason University campus, which hosts all kinds of exhibits, talks, and public performances. It’s a wonderful place to make your base for great day trips to DC, Baltimore, and other cities as well. You can explore the National Mall and memorials one day, then take a boat ride down the Potomac River another.
Immerse Yourself in Shenandoah’s Quiet Beauty
Photo by Scott Pruett on Unsplash
If you want to save something genuinely spectacular to round out your ultimate trip around Virginia, then its National Parks certainly won’t disappoint! Shenandoah is one of the very best that the nation has to offer: stretching along the Blue Ridge Mountains, this national treasure is home to 200,000 acres of protected wilderness filled with incredible views, hiking trails for travelers of all types, and gorgeous waterfalls and foliage. It’s very easy to explore, too, thanks to Skyline Drive, which will take you through some of the park’s most beautiful spots.
Ready to Travel?
Few states can offer as much enrichment and fulfillment as Virginia, especially if you want small-town charm, history, and fun! What’s your favorite place in VA? Share your tips and stories with the Frayed Passport community!
Featured image by JamesDeMers from Pixabay
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