5 Virginia Tourist Spots I Tried to Hate (But Ended Up Loving)

Aside from my home state of New Jersey and my neighboring states of New York and Pennsylvania, Virginia is becoming the state where I spend the most time. I have a close loved one there and make sure to visit several times a year. Like Pennsylvania, the regions of the state are very different, with the Washington, DC area being packed with culture and museums, and the Hampton Roads region having some of my favorite dining and attractions. As I come back time and time again, one thing is consistent—every time I've been skeptical about a so-called "tourist trap," it turns out to be one of the many must-see attractions in Virginia. Many people might have disregarded these attractions for one reason or another, but they're not only places I'm glad I visited—they're places I find myself coming back to again and again.

1. Busch Gardens Williamsburg

I first visited Busch Gardens Williamsburg in 2018, and while I was just trying to cross off one specific ride from my bucket list, I wound up being incredibly impressed with this park. Coaster-heavy parks aren't always my favorite, but Busch Gardens features some of the best theming I've seen at any theme park, with each area based on a different European village. The attention to detail is exceptional; the language of the music even changes as you move from land to land. I typically visit during the holiday event, Christmas Town, when several coasters are running and the entertainment is joined by a variety of stage shows. If you need something to eat while you're here, you can't beat the BBQ plate at Trapper's Smokehouse.

2. The Birchmere (Alexandria)

When I first started traveling for live music, I discovered The Birchmere hosted some of my favorite artists, but I was also taken a bit aback by its appearance at first. It's an old-fashioned music hall found in the back alley of a busy street. However, it's quickly become one of my favorite places to see a show. Not only is the venue all general seating, ensuring reasonable ticket prices, but the view and sound quality is excellent no matter where you sit. The music hall also serves a full menu of Southern food. I recommend the red beans and rice, packed with ham and sausage.

3. Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Coming from New Jersey, home to some of the most famous boardwalks in the world, I wasn't expecting to spend much time on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. However, I was very quickly won over by the variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions along the way. There's even a unique haunted house, Nightmare Mansion, open all year. While some places are closed in the off-season, it's worth visiting the area in the holiday season to see the amazing lights display that the city puts on.

4. Colonial Williamsburg

The first time I visited Colonial Williamsburg on a bus tour as a kid, I was a little skeptical—it sounded like school! But I discovered a whole new appreciation for it as an adult. The level of detail and recreation put into this area is stunning. If you're here for a casual experience, make sure to visit Merchant's Square, home to a charming selection of stores and museums, including one of the best candy stores in Virginia. If you have more time and interest, attending a battle recreation or taking a nighttime ghost tour is an unforgettable way to experience the town's history.

5. Nauticus (Norfolk)

Similarly, I didn't have much interest in naval history when I first visited Norfolk. However, Norfolk Harbor offers a pair of amazing experiences. The Battleship Wisconsin, docked here permanently, offers tours and even an overnight stay. And right next door, you'll find Nauticus, a massive museum dedicated not just to the area's naval history but also to the ocean itself, with a combination of exhibits, aquariums, and interactive activities that kids will love.

Have you visited any of these must-see attractions in Virginia? If any of them seem like the type of place you'd like to see for yourself, tell a friend about this article and plan a visit! Virginia's a big state, so if you'd like some help planning an itinerary, Only in Your State's AI-powered travel planner can give you a customized travel plan in only a few minutes.