The 4 Most Colorful Places You Can Find in Virginia

Life in Virginia is anything but dull—and I mean that quite literally. There's so much vibrancy here, and if you're looking for a visual feast, you won't have to travel far to find it. Below, I've outlined some of the most colorful places in Virginia, including stunning natural wonders and inspiring manmade attractions. One thing's for sure: you'll want to bring your camera to capture these 'gram-worthy sites!

1. ViBE Creative District - Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is one of the most popular destinations in Virginia, but fewer people know about its amazing creative district, known as ViBE. Tucked away just a few blocks from the oceanfront, this walkable neighborhood is packed with eye-catching artwork that is both beautiful and inspiring. If you love posing in front of colorful murals, this is the spot. Plus, there are tons of coffee shops, boutiques, and cafes to peruse while you're there.

2. Grayson Highlands State Park

Beautiful in every season and at any time of the day, Grayson Highlands State Park showcases the Blue Ridge Mountains at their most vibrant. We're talking layers upon layers of rich blues as far as the eye can see. And if you visit during sunset, you'll have a pink and orange sky overhead, and in the warm months, a banquet of bold wildflowers in the foreground.

3. Old Town Alexandria

Colorful row houses line the historic cobblestone streets of Old Town Alexandria, giving you an immersive feeling of traveling back in time. Vibrant yellows, light pinks, deep blues, and other hues can be spotted on building exteriors, giving way to the sparkling Potomac River. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the picture-perfect window boxes—Alexandria is famous for them!

4. Downtown Richmond Murals

A little over 10 years ago, the mural scene in downtown Richmond exploded, giving way to thousands of breathtaking artworks. Areas including Carytown, Jackson Ward, and the Canal Walk are particularly vibrant thanks to the talent of local artists. Thanks to the RVA Street Arts Festival and the Richmond Mural Project, these murals are now a core part of the city's identity.

Tips for Visiting and Photographing Colorful Spots in Virginia

Are you ready to get out there and explore the most colorful spots in Virginia? A little planning can go a long way. As you probably know, lighting is everything when it comes to taking high-quality shots. Try to time your visit in the early morning or during golden hour, just before sunset, to get that glowy, ethereal look to your pictures. If you're planning on being in the pictures, you might consider wearing neutral colors to contrast with your colorful surroundings. Lastly, it's important to be respectful of nearby businesses or homes.

What Makes Virginia So Colorful

Virginia's bold colors start with its very geography. Tucked between the ocean and the mountains, there are countless natural wonders in almost every hue under the sun. From the depths of the ocean to the rolling green hills, rich clay soil, and spectacular blue mountains, there's so much visual beauty to admire. Pair that with the textures of the historic architecture and the jaw-dropping artwork both inside and out, and you've got a place that's truly unforgettable.

Of course, the four most colorful places in Virginia outlined above just barely scratch the surface. Check out some other bucket-list-worthy destinations in Virginia and prepare to be amazed! Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.