The 17 Places You Should Go In Virginia In 2017
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Beth
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The New Year has officially arrived. And that means it’s time to start planning adventures and making brand new memories. Over the course of the year, we’ve highlighted various sites that are an absolute must-visit for anyone living in or visiting this beautiful state. So in honor of a new year, we’ve compiled something of a bucket list of fantastic places to go. Whether you’re going solo or with a group of family and friends, here are the places you should see in Virginia this year.
If you're short on time and can't make the trek to Utah, fret not. The "canyon" at Breaks Interstate Park is impressive in its own right. Discovered by Daniel Boone in the 1700s, it's located along the Virginia/Kentucky border.
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Winter in Virginia doesn't always mean staying cozy indoors. Year-round resorts such as Wintergreen offer thrilling activities such as snow tubing, ice skating, and skiing. It's the perfect way to enjoy some fresh air during the winter. Click here to learn more.
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Did you know you could visit giraffes, kangaroos, camels and more at the Virginia Safari Park? Take your car (slowly) through this family-run animal safari and you'll feel like you've transported to a different continent. This park is located just outside of Lexington. Click here to learn more.
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HogsHead Cafe in Richmond is frequently voted the best spot for authentic Virginia BBQ. Luckily, we've got plenty of other places to choose from, too. If you go to HogsHead, be sure to top off your meal with the banana pudding.
The clear water of this swimming hole is almost too blue to believe. If you're willing to go for some serious hiking, Devil's Fork Trail will lead you to this natural oasis in Fort Blackmore. During warmer months of the year, this spot makes for an amazing swimming hole. Click here to learn more about the hike.
Ever wonder what it was like when dinosaurs roamed the Earth? Well, this dino park won't exactly give you a realistic idea, but it's a pretty unique experience and a must-see roadside attraction. Dinosaur Land is located in White Post. Click here to learn more.
Cumberland Gap National Park is home to one of the most incredible natural formations in Virginia. This vast sand cave is the result of years and years of erosion. Step inside and you'll find yourself under a multi-colored sand canopy. The park also features an impressive trail system. Click here to learn more.
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Grayson Highlands State Park is one of the most scenic in the state, and is even more noteworthy for its residents: the wild ponies. Whether you're opting for a trail hike or simply want to enjoy the views, you'll love the company. This park is located in Mouth of Wilson. For more on this beautiful state park, click here.
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Crabtree Falls is not only the tallest waterfall in Virginia, it's also the highest series of cascades east of the Mississippi River. And with a well-marked trail that leads you all the way to the top, this activity is fun for the whole family. Just be sure to stay on the marked trail as rocks can be extremely slippery near the water. Crabtree Falls is located in Montebello.
For a unique (and thrilling!) perspective of the Shenandoah Forest, venture to try the canopy walk. Visitors who wish to walk across this sky bridge will have plenty of safety equipment and guidance to ensure the experience is a positive one. Virginia Canopy Tours is located in Bentonville. Click here for more information.
With some of its structures dating back to 1639, Jamestown Church is considered to be the oldest building in Virginia. A visit to this site will grant visitors an interesting perspective of early colonial life in this part of the state. Click here to learn more.
The Great 611 Steak Company in Roanoke is named for a beloved locomotive that used to run through the Shenandoah Valley. The restaurant serves up fine steaks in a dining room decorated with plenty of train memorabilia. Click here to learn more about this restaurant.
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The original Cape Henry lighthouse, located in Fort Story, is the oldest lighthouse in the country. Today, you can take a tour of this scenic monument that was built in 1792. Click here for more beautiful Virginia lighthouses.
Hike up Tinker Mountain and you'll gain one of the most incredible views in the entire state. Down below, the Carvins Cove Reservoir appears like something from a painting. This spot is located just a short drive from Roanoke off I-81. Click here to learn more.
Built in 1752, the Rosewell Plantation once served as the home to Virginia's prominent Page Family. In its time, it hosted some of the most extraordinary and elaborate parties in the country. Sadly, in 1916 the home burned. The brick ruins that remain today are said to be haunted, namely by ghosts that appear to descend a non-existent stairwell. The plantation is located in Gloucester County. Looking for more haunted locations in Virginia? Click here.
Accessible only by boat, Tangier Island is one of the most isolated places in the state. For this reason, it's also one of the most charming. With no cars on the entire island, you can tour this small town by means of a golf cart or bike. Click here to learn more.
The Great Channels, located outside of Lebanon, is a series of rock formation that creates something of a maze. These sandstone boulders make for an incredible adventure, and the area is filled with fun outdoor opportunities. To tackle this "maze," follow signs for the Great Channels Trail. Click here to learn more.
Even with 17 places to see, this list only scratches the surface. Which destinations would you add to the list? We’d love to hear from you!
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