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 includes family-run farms, vineyards, ice cream shops, antique malls, hikes, adventure centers, and scenic routes.
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:
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
There's something to enjoy at the family-run Liberty Mills Farm in practically every season. Known for their delicious hand-picked strawberries in the summer and their 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 take in the scenery. Plus, its convenient location north of Charlottesville means it's one of the most scenic 2-hour trips from Richmond or Washington D.C. you can take!
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. As you take a boat tour around the island, you might even catch a glimpse of a wild pony or two. To learn more about the gorgeous island of Chincoteague, click here.
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. To learn more about this site, click here.
If you're like a lot of Virginians, your first answer to the question, "what is there to do in Virginia?" likely has to do with food, and possibly even dessert. This enticing ice cream trail highlights some of the best dairy treats in the Northern Virginia area. For access to the interactive map and information about each site along the way, click here.
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 keep in mind that the 3-mile loop could take longer than expected! For more information on the safari park, click here.
Did you realize the largest antique mall in the country is located right here in Virginia? This 121,000 square foot space holds thousands of treasures 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. Plus, Factory Antique Mall is consistently voted as the number one antique mall in the Shenandoah Valley. To learn more about the Factory Antique Mall, click here.
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 6 hours at a moderate pace. Pack plenty of water and a picnic for the top of the mountain. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's the perfect day trip, although visitors should know that this is not a hike for beginners. Preparation is key! To learn more about this beautiful day hike, click here.
7. Drive the Snickersville Turnpike (Loudoun County)
Of course, there are beautiful views that don't require any hiking at all. 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 landscape, and past agricultural landmarks. When it comes to day trips in Virginia, you can't do much better than a scenic drive. To learn more about this historic drive, click here.
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. For more information about this site, click here.
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, click here.
10. Harper's 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 tree tops, under the guidance of safety equipment and a friendly staff. Prefer to stay closer to the ground? The company also offers rafting, tubing, and camping. To learn more about this thrilling adventure, click here.
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 thinking of 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, with remains cool during those hot summer days. For more information about this site, click here.
Have you embarked on any of these day trips before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences!
Address: 9166 Liberty Mills Rd, Somerset, VA 22972, USA
Address: Chincoteague, VA, USA
Address: 1616, 5022 Plank Rd, North Garden, VA 22959, USA
Address: 229 Safari Ln, Natural Bridge, VA 24578, USA
Address: 50 Lodge Ln #106, Verona, VA 24482, USA
Address: 2577 Nethers Rd, Etlan, VA 22719, USA
Address: Snickersville Turnpike, Blue Ridge, VA, USA
Address: Cumberland Gap, 1, VA 24248, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
What is there to do in Virginia?
April 06, 2020
Beth C.
What is there to do on a rainy day in Virginia?
Fortunately, beautiful weather isn’t required to enjoy a fun day trip in Virginia. In fact, there are plenty of indoor attractions that are every bit as memorable. Some rainy day activities in Virginia include visiting a Children’s Museum or Science Museum, the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach, a mini-golf course, or perhaps an indoor water park, such as the Massanutten Resort Indoor Water Park.
What do you do with kids in Virginia?
There are countless getaway ideas in and around Virginia that the little ones will enjoy. In fact, you’ll discover that Virginia is truly a family-friendly destination. If the weather is nice, you might embark on an easy trail that will showcase the natural beauty of the state. Shenandoah National Park features plenty of accessible and short trails that the kids will appreciate. Plus, the park even offers lots of children’s activities so your little one will be entertained and involved. Virginia also offers plenty of theme parks, such as Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, and interactive museums, such as the Science Museum of Richmond, that promise to keep the kiddos engaged.
What do you do with kids in Virginia without spending money?
As you’ll notice from the list above, there are plenty of day trips to take on one tank of gas in Virginia that don’t require you to spend any money. Quality time in nature is a great idea with little ones, and Virginia’s state parks have plenty to offer in terms of children’s programs and guided tours. Plus, some of Virginia’s state parks offer fossil hunting programs. These destinations include Chippokes Plantation State Park, Westmoreland State Park, and York River State Park.
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
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