Posted in Virginia May 06, 2015 by Anna Strock

Here Are 7 Unforgettable Virginia Trips To Take This Memorial Day

Memorial Day is just around the corner – and for most of us, that means a long weekend freebie without having to take a vacation day from work. So what to do with that whole extra 24 hours of free time? Here are a few ideas that will ensure fun for the whole family – and give you the chance to celebrate what Memorial Day is all about – honoring our long history of veterans and active military men and women.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

1. The Historic Triangle – Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown

Go back to where it all began at the Jamestown settlement.

Visit Colonial Williamsburg and see firsthand what life was like in Virginia’s early days.

See Yorktown where America’s independence began.

...…then make the most of your trip at the Peaks of Otter.

Kick back and relax at the Peaks of Otter Lodge.

Visit the Johnson Farm, an historically restored, fully functioning farm that shows off life in the Blue Ridge at the turn of the 20th century.

Take a Memorial Day Walking Tour through Hollywood Cemetery – the burial place of 2 presidents and countless Civil War greats and other military veterans.

Visit the Museum of the Confederacy and the Virginia War Memorial for a look at Virginia’s military history.

Go to Maymont Park for history, gardens and the Maymont Farm animals.

4. See what sacrifice looks like up close in Arlington National Cemetery

Visit the Tombs of the Unknowns and see the guards that honor it 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Stay for the changing of the guard, which happens every half hour until 7pm.

Pay tribute to the Women in Military Service For America at the memorial on the cemetery grounds.

Just down from Arlington Cemetery, you can visit the Marine Corps Memorial – also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial.

5. Enjoy a long weekend at Virginia Beach.

Watch the street performers, ride bikes or visit the giant statue of Neptune on the boardwalk.

Go camping and exploring at First Landing State Park and see where the Jamestown settlers first touched Virginia in 1607.

Have close encounters with marine life at the Virginia Aquarium.

6. If the Virginia Beach isn’t your scene, try the Potomac for sand and sun in the Northern Neck.

Take the Road to the Revolution Heritage Trail for 22 historic stops including George Washington’s Birthplace at Pope’s Creek, James Madison’s Birthplace in Colonial Beach and Robert E. Lee’s boyhood home, Stratford Hall.

See the “sky walking” goats at Westmoreland Berry Farm.

Go wine tasting at Ingleside Vineyards in Oak Grove.

Visit one of the Shenandoah’s many state parks, like Douthat State Park near Clifton Forge.

Explore Luray Caverns. And don’t miss the amazing Stalacpipe Organ while you’re down there!

Go hiking – grab your backpack and a picnic and explore world-class trails like Old Rag, Jones Run Falls, or Hawksbill.

With 27 military bases in Virginia representing every branch of the armed forces, it’s not hard to find somewhere to stop and take a moment to honor the many brave men and women who have served our country. Be sure check out these amazing getaways this Memorial Day and wherever you go, remember to be thankful for their service!