4.5Busch Gardens Williamsburg(9.077 reviews)from $53.49 - Pantheon Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Water Parks
Take your family to a place where fun comes naturally, Williamsburg, Virginia, home to Busch Gardens® and Water Country USA. Challenge one of Busch Gardens’ seven world-class coasters or discover family fun playing at Sesame Street® Forest of Fun™ and Land of the Dragons®. Water Country USA®, Virginia’s largest water park, is just three miles west of Busch Gardens and features state-of-the-art water rides and resort-style amenities. Guests are in for an epic journey on the park’s wildest family thrill slide, Colossal Curl™. True to its name, this mega water slide will deliver a high-adrenaline, family-friendly, action-packed adventure.See more..
Uncrowded wildlife refuge managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.See more..
4.5Water Country USA(2.517 reviews)from $53.49 - Great time for a family Spent More than 3 hours Water Parks
Keeping cool during a summer packed with thrills is easy at Water Country USA®. Virginia's largest water park offers fun for the entire family with resort-style amenities and more than 40 state-of-the-art water rides and attractions. Experience a rush aboard Colossal Curl™, the park’s first family thrill ride and the first of its kind in North America. Unwind and relax on a journey down the park’s lazy river or catch a wave at the Surfer’s Bay Wave Pool. Little ones can have a “splashtastic” good time in one of the park’s KIDsiderate® play areas designed just for them. Water Country USA also offers swim lessons and classes to help guests stay safe and feel confident in the water. With something for everyone, Water Country USA is hot destination for a cool summer.See more..
4.0Kings Dominion(1.879 reviews) - " When did the "amuse" leave the amusement park?" Amusement & Theme Parks
Grab your friends and family and come to Kings Dominion - Virginia's ultimate 400-acre destination for summertime fun! With more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including the largest coaster collection on the East Coast, Planet Snoopy, our Peanut's themed children's area and WaterWorks, a 20-acre water playground which is included in your park admission. Kings Dominion is Virginia's only destination offering two parks for the price of one. We have everything you need for creating lifelong memories. Our 40th Celebration starts in 2014 and offers magnificent experiences you won't find anywhere else! While it's our birthday, this celebration is all about you! We've taken all of the thrills, chills, smiles and dazzling moments of our history and crafted them into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don't miss it! To end the day, stay for Dominion at Dusk - a KD40 Nighttime Celebration! Start off with the vibrant lights and sounds of Snoopy's Starlight Spectacular and the stunning water and lights display of our fully refurbished International Street Fountain. The party really gets going as the Grande Bandstand and the midways of International Street come to life with our all-new block party, Ignite the Night! featuring an impressive cast singing some of your favorite hits! And the party isn't complete without a magnificent display of fireworks lighting up the nighttime skies above the park. Open daily during the summer; weekends in the spring and fall.See more..
4.5Great Falls Park(1.351 reviews) - Great option for local, shaded, hike Thursday: 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water • National Parks • Parks
An 800 acre park located just off the Potomac river.See more..
4.5Mill Mountain Star & Park(1.295 reviews) - Worth the Drive Up for the View Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks
A "must see" on most visitors list, an 88-foot manmade star (the largest in the world) sits on majestic Mill Mountain along with a beautifully landscaped city park, that boasts hiking and biking trails, and a zoo.See more..
4.5First Landing State Park(1.103 reviews) - Nice safe place to view nature and get some fresh air State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Educational sites
Nature enthusiasts will love this park with 2,700-acres of hiking trails, cypress swamps and nesting grounds for a variety of birds.See more..
We didn't plan for enough time. We had about an hour and a half when we visited in June, but when we arrived and got the guided tour times, wanted to go on one that a role player was leading (played a 19th century war reporter). We barely had enough time to see the visitor center, the tour, and pop into a few buildings. We hope to go back and spend some more time. Recommend planning on half a day!See more..
5.0The Mariners' Museum and Park(949 reviews) - Home of the USS Monitor Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums • Parks • Playgrounds
The Mariners' Museum, America's National Maritime Museum, includes the USS Monitor Center, home to the Civil War Ironclad's iconic gun turret. The Museum has over 35,000 maritime artifacts, including ship models, paintings and small craft. Located on a 550-acre park, they also feature a 5-mile hiking trail and paddleboat rentals. Due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Museum galleries are temporarily closed but we remain committed to bringing you fascinating stories from our Collection. Many favorite lecture series and family-friendly programs are being offered virtually for free, and we invite you to connect online with us. In addition, our Park and the Noland Trail are open and free to the public. We apologize for any inconvenience, and wish you good health until we can safely reopen our galleries.See more..
We visited the waterpark while we stayed at Massanutten and it was so much fun. You do have to be careful when you visit though. They were sold out on the weekend so we went on a Monday and it wasnt bad for standing in lines for the waterslides. We got there when they opened and were able to ride 3 or 4 times before the lines started forming.See more..
The only national park dedicated to the performing arts, with spaces for indoor and outdoor performances.See more..
4.5Neptune's Park(558 reviews) - Awsome Starues and no Charge to View Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Parks
Home of the FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES. Neptune's Park adjacent to the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, sports 72,000 square feet of space overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This park is not only home to the Free Summer Concert Series but also lots of special events all year long. Neptune's Park is truly one of a kind and we invite you to see for yourself.See more..
5.0Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park(507 reviews) - Challenging, exciting, one of the best days I've ever had!!! Thursday: Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
My favorite part wasn't the awesome course nor was it the thrill of the breath taking ride. It wasn't the beautiful landscape neither. Although it was all of those things, my favorite part was the employees and the way they treated my son and me! They were all so friendly and helpful. Patient with us first timers. Eager to help an over weight, out of shape, elder lady such as myself! They complimented us on the few parts we did well and reassured me on the parts I struggled with. Made me feel less embarrassed when I got in a place I couldn't get out of without assistance. You guys are awesome! A Plus!! We will definitely be returning!See more..
4.5Mount Trashmore Park(473 reviews) - Really nice park! Spent 2-3 hours Parks • Scenic Walking Areas • Playgrounds
My dad has RAVED about Mt. Trashmore since he moved to the area so when I went down to visit I had to check it out. The park has a very interesting history. It’s a very nice park overall...the top of the “mountain” has great views of the skyline and the lake. There’s a really nice walking trail around the lake and the park has adequate parking and facilities. I imagine it would be a great place for locals to picnic and hang out.See more..
4.0Ocean Breeze Waterpark(407 reviews) - Fun Park Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Water Parks
Ocean Breeze Waterpark is a family friendly Caribbean destination located 2 miles South of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Featuring over 30 slides and attractions including a million gallon wave pool, the 4 slide monster complex Neptune's Revenge, pirate themed water playground for the littlest Buccaneers, and the quarter mile Adventure River. With FREE Parking, FREE Inner Tubes and FREE Sunscreen you'll get more smiles per gallon with every visit!See more..
5.0Pamplin Historical Park(357 reviews) - Common soldiers. Great History and tours Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Parks • History Museums
Featuring the engaging National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, Tudor Hall Plantation, a recreated Military Encampment, and some of the best preserved earthworks in existence, this 424-acre park relives the life and times of a soldier during America's "War Between the States."See more..
4.5Hungry Mother State Park(337 reviews) - Outstanding Adventure Thursday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks
We came here after seeing the state park was offering a guided canoe tour by a ranger. We had never been to the park so really didn’t know what to expect, and what else got exceeded all expectations . The tour was led by a ranger naturalist. She got us set up in our kayaks and off we went. She guided us around the lake, pointing out different plants and birds, and explained the overall process of the changing color of the leaves - which were in their fall glory. This trip was amazing and it was like 10$ per. no kidding. This park also contains miles of trails, beautiful meeting places, swimming spots, a nature museum and much much more. Highly recommend - one of VAs most spectacular parks - well worth a visit!See more..
5.0Sandy River Outdoor Adventures(333 reviews) - Great Glamping Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
My husband and I had a wonderful time glamping in the Shining Star Tipi. We had a very relaxing and unique experience. All was done on a luxury scale with everything needed to have a comfortable stay even heated floors for the chilly mornings. The decor is rustic but lovely. The well equipped kitchenette is nice and there is all you need to cook on the fire pit outside your tipi. Also there are chairs and a picnic table for your enjoyment right outside your door. The pool and family play area is very close by.. There is plenty of space between tipis so no feeling of neighbors intruding. The housekeeping is tops. Everything was shiny clean. We had a long chat with Mark the owner. He is a great person and very hospitable. The whole staff is awesome. Check in and check out is very easy. Wifi is good. What more could you ask for??? Everyone should go glamping in a tipiSee more..
The visitor center and country store were closed. The roads were clear but it had definitely snowed and temperatures were threatening to remain below freezing. Was this really necessary? Yes, and it was amazing. The frozen waterfall was awesome to behold - just a tad slow to get there. The Pinnacles offered views that are the best around - it was stunning. We just scratched the surface of this gorgeous park but what we saw was amazing leaving us with lifelong memories. Highly highly highly recommend!See more..
4.5Smith Mountain Lake(331 reviews) - Crystal Clear Water State Parks • Bodies of Water
This lake is so clean and clear. We went paddleboarding and swam. It is a huge lake so you need to plan where you want to go and what activities you want to do- beach, jet ski, boat, paddleboard, kayak, swim, etc. It is a very peaceful area making it easy to relax. Air BnB has some amazing places on the lake to stay that are worth the money.See more..
4.5Meadowlark Botanical Gardens(330 reviews) - Winter Walk of Lights Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM Parks • Gardens
Explore 95 acres of ornamental display gardens, unique native plant collections, and peaceful woodlands at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, Virginia. With approximately 30 diverse Gardens, there are ample opportunities discover local flora and fauna among lakes, forests, and meandering walking trails. Take in majestic views of the Piedmont hills, explore the Korean Bell Garden or pay a visit to our restored 18th Century log cabin. Garden admission is paid upon arrival at the Visitor Center.See more..
4.5Kiptopeke State Park(297 reviews) - Lovely State Park for day visits, tent camping, or yurt rental. State Parks
One of the best spots for bird-watching.See more..
4.5Breaks Interstate Park(294 reviews) - Elk Tour and overnight stay at The Breaks Interstate Park State Parks
Breaks Interstate Park Breaks Elk Tour and overnight stay at The Breaks Interstate Park 867509975 We enjoyed the visit and the chance to photograph the elk herd. Sample pictures can be found at: davidpearcephotographydotcom. Be sure to scroll down to see a video of the herd. The motel room was clean and neat and breakfast at the restaurant was great.See more..
4.5Newport News Park(291 reviews) - Great park Biking Trails • Parks
I love this park. It is beautiful and I hike there often. You can walk numerous trails and the bike trail which is 5 miles as well. I'd say you could walk a good 10 miles hike if you utilize all the trails in the park and campground, The one trail to avoid is Wyman's Creek loop. I came across 2 cotton mouth snakes directly on the trail and they would not move. They both opened their mouths to hiss at me and took an aggressive pose. Both were blocking the trail in 2 different spots so I could not pass. It was an awesome trail but I won't take it again.See more..
4.5Gravelly Point Park(274 reviews) - a hidden gem that is perfect for kids and adults Parks
We visited here with our two kids and just LOVED it. It was so fun to be able to see so many planes take off and land. We easily spent an hour or so here. My husband knows a lot about planes, so he would talk to the kids about what each plane was doing (wheels going up, wing flaps adjusting, etc...). We will definitely be back!See more..
5.0Colonial National Historic Park(272 reviews) - Go now while Covid still restricts the number of people vying to see everything! Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours National Parks • Parks
It is a great time to visit. Not many places are open but those which are give an in-depth explanation that truly was more deeply understood than when in the past I tried to take it all in. By visiting the two court houses, I learned about the change from English court system to our evolving American one. They take 10 people into five main sites and make them come alive! It felt personal in a way that it doesn't when crowds are there rushing into one place and another.See more..
4.5Huntley Meadows Park(241 reviews) - A treasure for birding in Fairfax County Thursday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
I have been birding here weekly for 5 years and it is a treasure. Has trails and a boardwalk that reaches over the wetlands. No jogging or bikes allowed on the boardwalk and all dogs must be on leash. The wildlife is clinging here to one of the last undisturbed parcels of wetland and woods--you can see deer, beaver, turtles and frogs but it is mostly bird habitat.See more..
4.5Burke Lake Park(223 reviews) - Fabulous park Thursday: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM Bodies of Water • Parks
This park is absolutely wonderful. There is a 4.5 mile loop trail that helps you disconnect with the city life and reconnect with nature. The lake itself is gorgeous and you can do a variety of water activities, including fishing. There are numerous places to picnic and lots of green space to gather with friends. There are camping sites. There is even disc-golf (or Frisbee golf) as well as a driving range and gold course. There is an ice cream parlor, mini-golf, and even a little train for children to enjoy.See more..
This is by fair the best Park in the Hampton Roads Area based on its Greenery and Lake combination, attached to a superb running trail. Family fun, running and exercise compatibility, you can even meditate near the water. Fishing locations and all. My fave is the bike trail options. Good stuffSee more..
A state park that consists of rivefront beaches, hiking trails, and boat rentals over 1,300 acres.See more..
4.5Leesylvania State Park(209 reviews) - Great place for a family picnic, hike or outing near water Thursday: 6:00 AM - 8:30 PM Parks
A beautiful park located on the Potomac River that offers historical sites and recreation facilities.See more..
4.5Douthat State Park(207 reviews) - Amasing visit to another amazing VSP Thursday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks
Visitors to this colorful state park will view rolling hills, birds and a beautiful lake.See more..
4.5Gypsy Hill Park(206 reviews) - Gorgeous Town Park Steeped in History Thursday: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Parks
Park has a long history and a beautiful creek running through. The hills, baseball fields, playgrounds, pond, and water foul make it a pleasant park to visit. The road makes it great walking, jogging, or cycling. Staunton has made improvements over the years, making this a nice outdoor concert or recreation space. It has some nice additions for families which include a train, tennis courts, and a recreation center. For locals, the park is the center of the town for family activities and relaxation.See more..
4.5Morven Park(204 reviews) - Do the mansion tour! Thursday: Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Gardens
Morven Park is a 1,000 acre historic estate located in Leesburg, Virginia. For information on Park events and visiting the grounds, visit MorvenPark.org The mansion and museum hours vary by season. Visit MorvenPark.org/Tours for admission details and tour schedules. Known as the “Central Park” of Loudoun County, Morven Park welcomes 250,000 visitors each year who come to enjoy exquisite scenery, formal boxwood gardens, the Morven Park International Equestrian Center, athletic fields, the iconic Greek Revival mansion, museums, and hiking trails. As a nonprofit organization, Morven Park relies on donations to preserve the exceptional buildings and grounds, to support our award-winning student programs, and to continue our fun, family-friendly events.See more..
Beautiful area. Be sure to take the hiking trail from the road near sky lift down to the north portal of the tunnel. Free chair lift pass included with cabin stay since the swimming pool was not open. We stayed in a cabin. It was very nice. Nice wrap around deck with rocking chairs to look out at nature. Kitchen was well stocked with fridge, microwave, toaster, and stove. Bathroom had a hair dryer in it. Shower, no tub. Mattresses are covered in a heavy vinyl cover for sanitation purposes. I'd bring a mattress protector or extra blanket to put under your sheets so it doesn't feel like you are sleeping on vinyl. Mattress was fairly comfortable. Fireplace is a gas one with fake logs. No need to buy firewood for it. There is a fire pit outside to grill if you want to. The kitchen had grilling tools in one of the drawers. Kitchen had a nice assortment of pots and pans, baking dishes, dishes, utensils. It had paper towels and dish soap supplied. Bathroom had hand soap in dispenser at sink and body wash in dispenser in shower. The camp host by the camp store was very helpful when the store was closed. That is where you buy ice and firewood. Cell service was spotty all through the park. It was better in the cabin than down by the tunnel, but not a strong signal.See more..
5.0Bear Mountain Ziplines(194 reviews) - Fun ropes course. Amazing staff Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
We dropped in during our stay at the jellystone campground next door. The staff was able to accommodate us as walk-ins for the ropes course (recommend reservations for the zip lines). Anna, our guide, was amazing. Three of four young kids in our group were apprehensive and she completely accommodated. She even walked two children through personally. The kids loved the course and the customer service is second to none. Great excursion from the campground.See more..
4.5Chippokes State Park(194 reviews) - Worth visiting, especially during the fall and spring seasons. State Parks
Located only 6 miles from Surry Courthouse and 15 miles from Colonial Williamsburg and Victorian Smithfield, the 1,947-acre Chippokes State Park invites visitors to explore thousands of years of natural and Native American and over 394 years of African and European American histories while basking on James River sun-kissed beaches, relaxing amidst nature and a roaring campfire, and visiting other regional attractions. In the same year Africans were first brought to Jamestown, in 1619 Captain William Powell was granted his patent for Chippokes Plantation. By 1626 Chippokes Plantation became a working farm and to this day remains an operational agricultural enterprise. Tours, natural, cultural and historical programs are offered; check the website for details. Overnight guests may choose between four cabins and fifty water and electric campsites. Reservations are recommended.See more..
5.0Windsor Castle Park(189 reviews) - Great park, nice more of the river Parks
This was our first time visiting Windsor Castle Park, after my wife read about it on Facebook. The park sits near the historic section of Smithfield. The park has some great walking trails that weave in & out of the woods, so you get some shade as well. We really liked the docks where you could soak in the creek & Pagan River, which included a couple of docks for fishing & kayaking. The trails around the park were pretty much gravel or hard-pack, so it was easy to walk. The trail would be considered “easy,” so all levels of hikers can enjoy them. All in all, we really liked the park. We’ll definitely come back and try a few more of the trails…followed by a stroll around old Smithfield (contains some small cafes, antique shops and a few others). We recommend you check out both.See more..
4.5Belle Isle(181 reviews) - Everyone’s favorite spot Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water • Parks
This is a park unlike any other in VA. You get to walk an excellent suspension bridge across the James River to get to the island that bisects the city of Richmond. There is so much to do: walk on the dry rocks, rock climb on the routes in the quarry, run the trails, swim/hang out along the water, even ride bikes on the bike/BMX obstacle course. GREAT for an outdoor date or family day. Parking IS difficult to find.See more..
Come experience the thrill of flying from treetop to treetop at the home of Virginia's highest and longest ziplines! Buffalo Mountain Ziplines offers up to 8 cables taking you as high as 150' above the forest floor and spanning distances of over 2000' (in one cable). We welcome ages 3 and up! Great for the whole family. Located one mile off of the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 171.5.See more..
4.5Algonkian Regional Park(178 reviews) - Excellent and relaxing place in Potomac Falls and Sterling Thursday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Parks
Explore 838 acres of outdoor adventures at Algonkian Regional Park, located in Sterling, Virginia. Rent a picnic shelter or a vacation cottage along the Potomac River. Tee it up at our 18-hole golf course. Bring the kids for an afternoon at Volcano Island Waterpark, or spend hours hiking our paved and natural surface hiking trails. Algonkian Regional Park includes natural wooded areas and open fields. The park is open sunrise to sunset daily. The Woodlands event facility offers full service catering and is perfect for your next party, wedding or corporate event.See more..
Great park! We tent camped and were 1 of maybe 5 sites filled out of 12 (Mon-Wed). Online reservation was smooth and the Rangers were ready for us when we arrived. Tent sites are well maintained and although it rained one afternoon, the site drained well. Bathrooms are “rustic” if that’s your thing, clean, modern bathrooms & showers are also available. Only complaint was with the wood provided (for a fee) seemed very green and did not burn very well (maybe by design?) Trails are very nice and very well maintained! Overall great experience! Weekends fill up fast so plan ahead! Will definitely return for another camping adventure!See more..
This Federal Park is beautiful, historic and only a short drive from the DC Beltway. There is plenty of free parking and - at least when we visited - was not crowded at all. You will enjoy seeing where limestone was cut for the US Capitol - but more than that, the water view, birds and other wildlife will make your day.See more..
4.5Claytor Lake State Park(166 reviews) - Great overnight stay Thursday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks • Bodies of Water
Beautiful park, well maintained & clean. Friendly camp host, clean shower house, plenty of hot water. Nice swim beach with pretty view and clear water. Easy to access from the interstate. The only downside of the campground is the spacing of the sites in the D loop. Very close together, with zero privacy between sites.See more..
4.5Waller Mill Park(163 reviews) - Beautiful Park Thursday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Parks
Waller Mill Park is a 2,705-acre park is situated around a reservoir that was opened to the public in July 1972. The 360-acre lake is open for fishing, boating, pedal boating, canoeing and kayaking with a tunnel connecting the upper and lower sections of the lake. Numerous picnic tables, picnic shelters, play fields, and playground equipment are nestled among the trees providing a scenic picnic area. Features: • Boat Rentals (kayak, canoe, pedal boats, jon boats) • Hiking Trails (wooded & asphalt) • Disc Golf Course • Picnic Shelters (4 to rent for events) • Dog Park • Playground Equipment • Boat Ramp • Kayak Ramp • Fishing Piers • Ball fields • Restrooms • Boathouse StoreSee more..
4.5Fairy Stone State Park(156 reviews) - Hidden Gem! Thursday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks
We visited Fairy Stone State Park for a day-hike with our dog. Visiting in early May, we found a lot of wildflowers along the trail, including a couple showy orchis. Little Mountain Falls Trail is a 3-4 mile loop passing a small waterfall. We also hiked at Stuart's Knob that had several old iron mines and a couple nice overlooks. We stopped at the visitor center to buy a couple fairy stones in case we had no luck finding them. Before leaving, we stopped at Fairy Stone Pit Stop, right on the park boundary, and roamed around looking for stones. Once you know what to look for, we found about a dozen in a half-hour. No digging tools are allowed. Overall, a fun little park and would like camp here some time.See more..
4.5Lake Accotink Park(156 reviews) - Beautiful and tranquil Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Bodies of Water • Parks
Outside D.C. in Northern Virginia. Tour boat rides, pedal boat rentals, carousel, beach front, playground equipment, hiking trails, snack bar, etc.See more..
