Virginia Travel Guide

Taste Our Culinary Roots

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:24:51 +0000

VIRGINIA’S CULINARY ROOTS

Virginia’s history isn’t just told through landmarks and battlefields — its kitchens also tell a story. Thanks to the state’s varied geography, Colonial roots, and generations of local pride, time-honored dishes passed down through families continue to be celebrated, reimagined, and served as staples to locals and visitors alike.

From hearty stews of the Piedmont region to briny oysters of the Chesapeake Bay, each dish tells a story of the Commonwealth’s past and present. Blending flavors from Indigenous, European, and African influences, experience these iconic foods firsthand — and the restaurants that do them proud — for a true taste of Virginia.

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Unforgettable Places to Stay

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:15:23 +0000

A getaway in Virginia means unforgettable experiences, made even more special by out-of-the-box accommodations. These places will have you planning your next visit before this one ends.

CREATIVE STAYS

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Stargazing

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 08:22:15 +0000

VIRGINIA IS FOR STAR-CROSSED LOVERS

With the most International Dark Sky Parks east of the Mississippi — and a notable collection of observatories — Virginia is a haven for stargazers.

NATURAL CHIMNEYS PARK AND CAMPGROUND, MOUNT SOLON

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Celebrate Black Culture

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 06:26:52 +0000

Virginia’s Heart & Soul campaign celebrates community, creativity, and Black culture. Here’s your guide to experiencing Black Virginia.

Richmond’s historic Jackson Ward neighborhood — once home to 200-plus Black-owned businesses — is known as the birthplace of Black entrepreneurship, and today businesses like the cozy community hangout Penny’s Wine Shop continue the tradition, serving wine by the glass and small plates. Penny’s is a 10-minute walk to the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, honoring the first Black woman to found and charter a bank in the U.S.

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Feel the Joy of Missing Out

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:38:05 +0000

How to Feel JOMO in Virginia

JOY OF MISSING OUT

With hustle culture, hyperconnectivity, and an endless stream of notifications and daily demands, it’s no wonder travelers are looking to actually relax on vacation. Trade in your FOMO (fear of missing out) for JOMO (joy of missing out) in Virginia, where you’ll find it’s easy to prioritize presence over pressure, depth over distraction, and peace over performance. It’s not about skipping experiences — it’s about doing less while enjoying more.

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Inclusive Adventures

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:37:52 +0000

INCLUSIVE ADVENTURES FOR EVERY EXPLORER

When we say outdoor activities for all, we mean it. Use this roundup to start planning your trip, whether you’re looking for accessible cabins in state parks or outfitters that ensure people of all abilities get to experience outdoor adventures.

ACCESSIBLE TRAILS FOR HIKING & BIKING

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Coastal Virginia: Hampton Roads

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 04:41:20 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Celebrate PrideFest on the waterfront in Norfolk with live performances, local vendors, and their iconic Pride Boat Parade.

Stay the night in the lighthouse at Smithfield Station, complete with a spiral staircase leading to panoramic views from the lantern room.

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Chesapeake Bay

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 04:40:54 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Enjoy a waterfront stay at The Tides Inn, where maritime and heritage meet luxury.

Since 1958, the Urbanna Oyster Festival has been serving up oysters every which way: raw, roasted, fried, and stewed.

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Virginia 250 Places & Events

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 13:02:10 +0000

VIRGINIA 250 STEP INTO THE STORY OF AMERICA

As America commemorates the 250th anniversary of its birth, no place offers a more immersive and meaningful experience than Virginia, which invites visitors to walk in the footsteps of revolutionaries, statesmen, and visionaries who shaped the foundation of the United States.

Walk Through Living History

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Shop Souvenirs Made in Virginia

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 12:32:32 +0000

MADE in Virginia

Bring home a piece of Virginia, handmade with love from one of our small businesses.

Mill Gap Farms (01) is Virginia’s only organic maple syrup producer, located in the western part of Highland County. Their syrup is tapped fresh from the maple trees of the surrounding Alleghany Mountains.

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Hotel Restaurants

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 12:32:18 +0000

STAY & SAVOR: WHERE FLAVOR MEETS COMFORT

These days, you barely have to leave your hotel room to discover a plate worth writing home about. Across Virginia, places to stay are stepping up with world-class dining experiences led by top chefs and visionary kitchens.

Inside Lynchburg’s Beaux Arts-style grande dame, William & Henry Steakhouse at The Virginian Hotel pairs an upscale ranch aesthetic with prime cuts and swanky cocktails. Dark wood paneling, cowhide banquettes, and a modern vibe make it the kind of place where you’ll want to linger a little longer over your bone-in ribeye.

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Farm & Foodie Experiences

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 12:32:04 +0000

GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY

Immersive Farm & Foodie Experiences

The best memories often start with a little dirt on your hands and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re feeding alpacas, harvesting oysters, or learning to make maple syrup, Virginia offers experiences that are all about rolling up your sleeves.

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What’s New in Virginia Wine Country

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 12:31:44 +0000

Rewriting the Playbook Virginia Wineries Turn Grapes into Gold

Grapes like Viognier and Cabernet Franc — relative obscurities or bit players in Old World wine traditions — are taking center stage in Virginia. Like the story of Virginia itself, these varietals tell a tale of characters from the Old World who learned to thrive in a new environment. Together with the Virginia native Norton grape, Viognier and Cabernet Franc have taken root in the soil, formed their own expressions of the terroir, and contributed to the growth of the Virginia wine industry.

These three grapes have played a significant role in Virginia’s emergence as a notable player in the world of fine wine. Analogous to the Virginians who built our nation, such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Norton vines laid the groundwork for varieties that would follow, thriving in Virginia’s distinct soils and producing wines that are earning critical acclaim throughout the world.

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Outdoor Activities

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 12:30:39 +0000

Outdoor Activities for All

No matter your age, skill level, or adrenaline threshold, you’ll find outdoor activities that meet your pace and vibe.

Whitewater Paddling

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Explore State Parks

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 10:43:37 +0000

FROM STATE PARKS TO SPOTS WORTH EXPLORING

Virginia’s state parks are iconic for good reason: Think postcard-worthy views, thoughtfully maintained trails, and outdoor experiences that keep you coming back for more. If you’ve been to our most visited parks — or just like options — these peaceful retreats are equally scenic and packed with personality.

If you like

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What to See in Every Season

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 09:57:37 +0000

WONDER IN ALL FOUR SEASONS

FIND YOUR FAVORITE

Every season brings a new reason to fall in love with the Commonwealth. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, feel-good festivals, or peaceful moments, there’s something special to experience year-round.

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Virginia is for...

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 09:51:08 +0000

Virginia is for explorers of all kinds, from history enthusiasts to nature lovers. Whether you’re standing at the site of Patrick Henry’s iconic speech in Richmond, sampling award-winning wines on the Monticello Wine Trail, or hiking the summits of Shenandoah National Park, Virginia offers an array of adventures.

Ready to chart your course?

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GAME: Find LOVE Around Every Corner

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 09:36:27 +0000

We don’t just talk about LOVE — we build it, paint it, plant it, and celebrate it in more than 300 ways across the Commonwealth. From mountaintop sculptures made with natural elements to coastal displays that mimic the surf, the LOVEworks signs you’ll spot are more than photo ops — they’re heart-shaped breadcrumbs leading you to the best of Virginia.

Follow our hints to a sign in each region, then scan for our map to find the ones nearest you.

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Virginia Mountains

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 09:29:43 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Spend a weekend at the Cabin on Back Creek Farm and watch (or help) them make maple syrup.

The Highland County Barn Quilt Trail has 80 on display, with names like Bear’s Paw, Country Roads, and Autumn Splendor.

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Welcome to Virginia

Abigail Spanberger — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 09:26:00 +0000

Whether it’s your first time in Virginia or you’re simply looking to explore someplace new, this year’s guide highlights plenty of relaxing getaways, exciting adventures, and memorable places to discover during your Virginia travels — all through the eyes of passionate Virginians.

Virginia’s diverse beauty is not only in its scenic landscapes but in its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals.

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Southwest Virginia: Heart of Appalachia

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 09:23:23 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Don’t miss the picturesque view from Powell Valley Overlook on Route 23 near Big Stone Gap.

Hike Flag Rock Recreation Area and pose for an unforgettable photo with the Sasquatch-like Woodbooger statue.

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Southwest Virginia: Blue Ridge Highlands

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 09:16:13 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Hike 4 miles roundtrip to Cascade Falls for an epic summer swimming hole experience.

Put on your dancing shoes for a Friday Night Jamboree at Floyd Country Store, an old-time general store home to traditional Appalachian music.

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Southern Virginia

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 09:09:23 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Walk or bike Danville’s Riverwalk Trail, connecting parks and historic sites along the Dan River.

A second-story porch transforms into the perfect stage for the Summer Concert Series at Rosemont Vineyards & Winery.

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Shenandoah Valley

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 08:50:54 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Explore the legacy of the Valley’s historic settlers through preserved buildings at the Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center in Harrisonburg.

Shenandoah National Park boasts some of the best hiking in the state, from waterfalls to 360-degree summits.

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Northern Virginia

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 08:21:24 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Experience a music and food lovers paradise at NOVA LIVE, with restaurants, food trucks, a brewery, distillery, and live music on multiple stages.

Attend the annual Middleburg Film Festival on the picturesque grounds of Salamander Middleburg for award-worthy films and conversations with the filmmakers.

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Coastal Virginia: Eastern Shore

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 08:13:51 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Book a boat tour and catch a glimpse of the wild ponies that call the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge home.

From the historic port town of Onancock, take the passenger ferry to Tangier Island for unspoiled beaches and fresh-caught seafood.

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Central Virginia

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 07:59:51 +0000

5 WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Stay at the historic boutique Hotel Petersburg and take in sweeping views of Old Towne Petersburg from the rooftop bar.

Experience the thrill of tailgating and steeplechase horse racing at the Montpelier Hunt Races in Montpelier Station.

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MAP: Get to Know Virginia

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 07:50:03 +0000

Hunt for Antiques

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 07:40:23 +0000

WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN

Antiques Hunting in the Commonwealth

From treasure-laden malls to hidden gems, Virginia’s antiquing scene is well worth the forage. All types of collectors will love combing through specialty shops to discover historical charm, Virginia stories, and craftsmanship from another time. Ready to hunt?

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