The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take in Virginia

Living in Virginia means having access to some of the most beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, restaurants, and historic attractions along the East Coast. Yet, sometimes, the choices can be overwhelming. If you've ever been asked, "What is there to do in Virginia?" the following list offers some of the best day trips to enjoy in the state. Depending on where you live, you'll find that most of these are incredible destinations that you can reach on one tank of gas. The following list of day trips in Virginia includes family-run farms, vineyards, ice cream shops, antique malls, hikes, adventure centers, and scenic routes. These are the best places to go on a day trip in Virginia!

So whether you're up for an exciting adventure or are in the mood for something a bit more relaxing, you'll create some wonderful memories when you participate in any of the following excursions:

1. Liberty Mills Farm (Somerset)

There's something to enjoy at the family-run Liberty Mills Farm practically every season. Known for its delicious hand-picked strawberries in the summer and its massive corn maze in the fall, this destination is one your whole family will cherish. It's also a beautiful place to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. Plus, its convenient location north of Charlottesville means it's one of the most scenic two-hour trips from Richmond or Washington D.C. you can take! We love this idea for a day trip in Virginia.

2. Chincoteague Island

An island getaway could be a lot closer than you think. Chincoteague Island is situated along Virginia's Eastern Shore and offers pristine beaches, a charming town, and plenty to do. You might even catch a glimpse of a wild pony or two (or perhaps a whole herd) as you take a boat tour around the island. You can even take a Chincoteague E-Bike Tour for a super fun adventure here! Visiting this incredible island is one of the most scenic day trips in Virginia.

3. Pippin Hill Farms & Vineyard (Charlottesville)

Tucked away near the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll find the scenic Pippin Hill Farms & Vineyards. It's the perfect place to sample some local wine as you take in the beauty of the surrounding land. Pippin Hill Farms also features a gorgeous tasting room with an impressive seasonal menu. In fact, the cuisine offered at Pippin Hill is every bit as impressive as their local wine. This is a classic day trip in VA for couples!

4. Virginia's Ice Cream Road Trip

If you're like many Virginians, your first answer to the question, "What is there to do in Virginia?" likely concerns food and possibly even dessert. This enticing ice cream trail highlights some of the best dairy treats in the Northern Virginia area. To access the interactive map and information about each site along the way, read on to learn more about one of the most delicious day trips in Virginia!

5. Virginia Safari Park (Lexington)

If ever you've dreamed of turning your car into a full-on safari vehicle, this trip is for you. The Virginia Safari Park is a 180-acre natural area home to camels, zebras, giraffes, elk, and more. The animals roam free, and visitors can drive carefully through the park to see them up close. The animals are on their own agenda, so remember that the three-mile loop could take longer than expected! This has to be one of the most exciting, family-friendly Virginia day trips.

6. Factory Antique Mall (Verona)

Did you realize the largest antique mall in the country is located right here in Virginia? This 150,000-square-foot space holds thousands of treasures from hundreds of vendors just waiting to be discovered. If you're looking for something to add to your decor or a unique gift for a friend, you'll enjoy your time browsing these vintage finds. Factory Antique Mall is consistently voted as the number one antique mall in the Shenandoah Valley. The Factory Antique Mall is high on our shopping day trips in Virginia list!

7. Hike Old Rag Mountain

Deemed one of the most beautiful day hikes in America, Old Rag is a breathtaking trail that promises a jaw-dropping view from the top. The 8-mile trek takes roughly six hours at a moderate pace. Pack plenty of water and a picnic for the top of the mountain. It's the perfect day trip for outdoor enthusiasts, although visitors should know that this is not a hike for beginners. Preparation is key for one of the most awe-inspiring day hikes in Virginia. Make sure you have AllTrails+ downloaded on your phone and have your hiking backpack packed with all essentials before you head out to Old Rag Mountain.

8. Drive the Snickersville Turnpike (Loudoun County)

Of course, there are beautiful views that don't require hiking. For one of the most scenic and underrated drives in Virginia, you can opt for State Route 734, also known as the Snickersville Turnpike. This route winds through pristine farmlands and is best when driven leisurely. The 15-mile drive winds over streams, through mountainous landscapes, and past agricultural landmarks. Regarding day trips in Virginia, you can't do much better than a scenic drive along this historic route.

9. Virginia's Natural Sand Cave

Few people realize that Virginia has its very own sand cave. Located in Cumberland Gap Park, this breathtaking natural wonder can be accessed by means of a quick hike. The cave is the result of wind erosion and inside, you'll notice nearly an acre and a half of colorful sands. If you're wondering how you can impress visitors or even family members with a great getaway to take in Virginia, this underrated destination belongs at the top of your itinerary. We love this day trip in Virginia!

10. The Town of Floyd

This southwestern Virginia town could easily be one of the coolest in the state. With live music, a weekly boot-stomping Friday Night jamboree, and small shops to browse, there's a lot to love about Floyd. Plus, there are endless outdoor attractions nearby for those looking to explore the region by foot. To learn more about this small town with a population of just 500, read all about this perfect Virginia day trip.

11. Harpers Ferry Adventure Center (Purcellville)

If your ideal afternoon involves zip lines, suspended bridges, and incredible team-building activities, you'll want to visit the Harper's Ferry Adventure Center. The Zip Line Canopy Tour offers adventurers a chance to soar through the treetops under the guidance of safety equipment and friendly staff. Prefer to stay closer to the ground? The company also offers rafting, tubing, and camping. To learn more about this thrilling adventure, read on about one of the most fun and adventurous Virginia day trips!

12. The Underground Wishing Well at Luray Caverns (Luray)

Inside Luray Caverns, you'll find one of the most unique wishing wells in the world. The six-foot-deep pool is the perfect place to cast a few coins while considering your wish. Even better, the proceeds are collected and donated to charity each year. Since 1950, this single wishing well has accumulated nearly one million dollars. After you visit the well, you can explore the rest of the impressive underground cavern system, which remains cool during those hot summer days. You can even to opt to rent a kayak to take out on the Shenandoah River in Luray after your cavern tour. This Virginia day trip is perfect for a summer’s day!

Have you embarked on any of these day trips in Virginia before? Or, do you have any other VA day trip suggestions for us? If so, please send us a note through our nomination page.

Looking for more fun things to do in Virginia? Here are 12 additional Virginia day trips, one for each month of the year!