Things to do & places to visit in Virginia, United States

Virginia can make American history come alive. Visit Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, tour Civil War battlefields, explore the living history museum at Williamsburg… the possibilities are endless (if the kids object, break up the historical sightseeing with a visit to Busch Gardens). Arlington, site of Arlington National Cemetery, is just across the Potomac River from all the major sites in D.C. In addition to beaches and historical attractions, Virginia has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts. Active families will love the Blue Ridge Highlands, where hiking, canoeing and tubing are just a few of the activities offered. Couples might enjoy a romantic mountain cabin in Virginia after a day of hiking in Shenandoah National Park.

Virginia #12 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.55 based on 318.7k traveler reviews, of 3.042 attractions. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Tuesday, December 05, 2023, 20:17.

Top things to do (38)

Top destinations in Virginia 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Arlington National Cemetery (9.567 reviews)
- Great and humbling experience
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Cemeteries

Veterans of every American war from the Revolution to the country's most recent conflicts are buried at Arlington, which was officially declared a military cemetery in 1864. Among the more than 260,000 dead are three unidentified service members, buried at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and John F. Kennedy, whose gravesite is marked by an eternal flame. See more..
5.0 Steven F Udvar-Hazy Center (4.469 reviews)
- Great fun when flying in or out of IAD
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Speciality Museums

Hundreds of aircraft and spacecraft are on display in two massive hangars, including a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, the Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay, and the Space Shuttle Discovery. See more..
5.0 The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (4.107 reviews)
- Moving
Spent < 1 hour Historic Walking Areas

Guarded around the clock by the Army's 3rd infantry, this memorial in Arlington National Cemetery honors unidentified American soldiers from the two World Wars and the Korean War. See more..
5.0 Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (3.141 reviews)
- Gorgeous
Tuesday: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

Uncrowded wildlife refuge managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. See more..
5.0 Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (3.121 reviews)
- Huge, beautiful museum.
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Museums

VMFA Arts is a top comprehensive US art museum with more than 5,000 years of art from around the world. VMFA is open 365 days a year and general admission is always free. The Wall Street Journal recently stated that VMFA is now a "two day museum." See more..
5.0 Daisey's Island Cruises (1.931 reviews)
- Fantastic nature cruise!
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historical & Heritage Tours • Boat Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

We had the best cruise with Captain Nate! We booked the larger boat, but since only 5 people signed up we ended up with the smaller boat. Captain Nate was engaging with everyone, full of knowledge, and made sure my 7 year old daughter (the only kid on the cruise) was having a blast. Nature cooperated as we saw tons of playful dolphins, a herd of wild ponies, various sea birds, crabs, an eagle's nest, and more. We learned about the history of the ponies on the island and the annual swim, saw the lighthouse and the NASA launch site, and spent a great morning on the water. My daughter is already asking to go back! This adventure was well worth the money and I highly recommend sailing with Daisey's and Captain Nate! See more..
5.0 Military Aviation Museum (1.405 reviews)
- Nice Place to Visit
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • Speciality Museums • History Museums

Fun for the whole family!! The Military Aviation Museum is home to one of the largest flying collections of World War I and World War II era military aircraft in the world. More than 80,000 guests travel from around the world to see our rare aircraft every year, especially during our major events and air shows. Come see why the Military Aviation Museum is one of the top attractions in all of Virginia Beach - rain or shine! Take a flight in an open cockpit biplane for a once in a lifetime experience, and experience the first fifty years of flight! See more..
5.0 National Museum of the Marine Corps (1.163 reviews)
- Well worth your time and attention
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Military Museums • Speciality Museums • History Museums

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is a lasting tribute to U.S. Marines--past, present, and future. Situated on a 135-acre site adjacent to Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, and under the command of Marine Corps University, the Museum's soaring design evokes the image of the flag-raisers of Iwo Jima and beckons visitors to this 120,000-square-foot structure. World-class interactive exhibits using the most innovative technology surround visitors with irreplaceable artifacts and immerse them in the sights and sounds of Marines in action. Admission and parking are always free. See more..
5.0 Virginia Creeper Trail (1.134 reviews)
- What a Jewel!!!
Hiking Trails

A bike trail challenging to both beginners and experts. See more..
4.5 Colonial Williamsburg (12.6k reviews)
- Great day for the entire family
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • History Museums

Colonial Williamsburg, a 301-acre living history museum, brings travelers back in time to colonial Virginia through immersive experiences, historical reenactments, museums, and events. Prominent landmarks like the Raleigh Tavern, the Capitol, and the Governor’s Palace have been lovingly reconstructed, and travelers can walk through the entire historic area free of charge—although there are also ticketed attractions to enjoy, such as carriage rides around the historical center. Be sure to buy advance tickets to watch staged adaptations of historical events, from 'Cry Witch' to 'To Hang a Pirate'. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Busch 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..
4.5 Virginia Beach Boardwalk (7.950 reviews)
- Relaxing , and romantic walk on the boardwalk in the off season.
Piers & Boardwalks

Hit Virginia Beach’s three-mile-long oceanfront promenade to people-watch, shop, and eat in a relaxed ambience. The boardwalk features a separate bike path—perfect for cycling and rollerblading. There's also a bronze statue of King Neptune which you can spot from miles away. When hungry, head over to the restaurants at the neighboring Pacific Avenue. Virginia Beach is also worthy of visiting during winter when Christmas lights turn the boardwalk into a stunning spot. To make the most of your stay, you might want to book one of the many waterfront hotels in the area. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Monticello (7.125 reviews)
- Fascinating and impressive!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Gardens

Monticello and its many historical rooms, gadgets, furniture, buildings, and artifacts tell us a lot about Thomas Jefferson, the president who built it and lived there. See more..
4.5 Historic Jamestowne (5.491 reviews)
- Awesome, but expensive.
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums

Historic Jamestowne is the original site of the first permanent English settlement in America. Ongoing archaeology at the site of James Fort has changed our understanding of the struggles and triumphs of early 1600s life in Virginia. Living history programs and an archaeology museum tell the story of this dramatic rediscovery. The site is jointly administered by the National Park Service and Preservation Virginia. See more..
4.5 Luray Caverns (4.803 reviews)
- Picture Wont Do!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Canyons • Caverns & Caves

This spectacular natural formation features enormous chambers filled with towering stalactite columns, shimmering travertine draperies, and crystal-clear pools. Explore the caves through its well-lit, paved walkways and you’ll find yourself in magnificent cathedral-sized rooms with 10-story-high ceilings. Listen out for the haunting sounds of the “singing” rocks, thanks to the world’s largest musical instrument the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which plays the stalactites. Learn how this organ works and other cool facts on a guided tour of the caves. While you’re there, the nearby Car and Carriage Caravan Museum and Rope Adventure Park are worth a visit, too. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 George Washington's Mount Vernon (4.771 reviews) from $28.00
- Enslaved People of MV Tour highly recommended
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings

Come share the fascinating moments of America’s first family with yours at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Explore the beautiful mansion and grounds and get to know the man, the ideas and the values that founded a nation. Dive into history through action-packed theaters, fascinating exhibits and meet characters from Washington’s world. Admire the view of the peaceful Potomac, or hop on board a sightseeing cruise. It’s a place where history truly comes to life. See more..
4.5 Jamestown Settlement (4.380 reviews)
- A MUST See and Visit!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Ships

We purchased the Single Day Combo ticket (includes): Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum. This allows a (1) Single day visit ticket to each museum. Meaning you get (1) visit to each museum location. There are many combination tickets you can get but this worked the best for our visit. These museums are GREAT and are WELL worth the price of admission. Allow enough time to see both. We thought 1-2 hours would be enough but it would not be. So allow yourself not to be rushed and enjoy the history. The museum and staff here do a wonderful job and are friendly. FYI, the National Park service operates the " Historic Jamestown" just around the corner which has the Glasshouse and other exhibits (separate and a fee). These are independent of this museum. See more..
4.5 Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center (3.588 reviews)
- Nice place to visit
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Science Museums • Aquariums

A 300,000-gallon tank with sharks, rays, and other aquatic species, is the main attraction at this popular aquarium, along with a walk through tunnel featuring sharks, rays, and more. Featuring thousands of animals representing hundreds of species. See more..
4.5 Virginia Beach (3.094 reviews)
- Very clean & well maintaned
Beaches

My wife & I stayed overnight in a hotel overlooking the beach so we were able to observe it late in the day & early in the morning. We walked on he beach late in the day & observed that the sand was very clean & there were trash bins at numerous spots. There are several public access points, so there were quite a few people on the beach late in the day. The next morning we watched tractors & other heavy equipment clean the beach & put it in pristine condition for the day. If you love the ocean, come here. See more..
4.5 Old Town (2.802 reviews)
- Historic and Walkable Destination
Historic Sites • Neighborhoods

Quaint old seaport section of Alexandria on the National Register of Historic Places. See more..
4.5 Skyline Drive (2.749 reviews)
- Amazing Hiking & Views, Disappointing Visitors Center
Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water • Scenic Drives

105-mile Scenic Drive Built In The 1930's Goes Through The Entire Length Of The Park. See more..
4.5 Governor's Palace (2.536 reviews)
- Palace is lovely!
Tuesday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites

The luxurious palace of the loyalist governor, complete with meticulously replicated late 18th century furnishings. See more..
4.5 Water 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..
4.5 U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (2.438 reviews)
- Beautiful site and marks one of the outstanding events of WW2
Monuments & Statues

Commonly called the "Iwo Jima Memorial," the statue is a depiction of the famous raising of the U.S. flag on Iwo Jima and is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives defending that flag. See more..
4.5 Natural Bridge State Park (2.097 reviews)
- Pretty location, a little pricey for families
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations

Once owned by Thomas Jefferson and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 215-foot tall Natural Bridge is a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. The park is more than just the bridge; beautiful forests and rolling meadows showcase the area’s karst terrain, and vistas of surrounding mountains and the James River valley display nature’s splendor. Access these via 6 miles of hiking trails, including the accessible Cedar Creek Trail that leads from the bridge to the Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade. Living history programs connect you to the past and cover how people once used the area’s resources for survival and inspiration. Start at the visitor center where you will find exhibits and a gift shop. A shuttle from the visitor center to the bridge trail is available for those not wishing to take the stairs. See more..
4.5 Maymont (2.069 reviews)
- Beautiful House
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Farms • Gardens

Maymont is a 100-acre American estate, an extraordinary gift given to the community by James and Sallie Dooley who lived there from 1893 to 1925. Whether strolling in the gardens, touring the mansion, watching a river otter at play, or petting a goat, there is something for everyone to enjoy. See more..
4.5 Virginia Safari Park (1.815 reviews)
- Everyone needs this experience!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Virginia Safari Park, Virginia’s only drive-thru safari park, is located on 180-acres in the foothills of the Blueridge Mountains. Home to over 1000 animals, there is no shortage in animal diversity, including Giraffes, White Rhinos, Cheetahs, African Penguins, Zebras, Bengal Tigers, and more. The Safari drive-thru portion offers visitors the opportunity to see and feed animals up-close from their vehicles. Guest can also interact with animals in the Village Walkthru or up close during a memorable encounter with sloths, rhinos, or penguins. Guest can also view Africa’s rarest cat, the King Cheetah, only at the Virginia Safari Park. We're located in the Shenandoah Valley, a short day trip from Roanoke, Lynchburg, Staunton, Charlottesville, Richmond, Maryland, and DC. See more..
4.5 Yorktown Battlefield (1.665 reviews)
- Very Informative
Historic Sites • Battlefields

There is a visitor center with some exhibits and a 15 minute video which is helpful in understanding what happened at the battle. There was a ranger giving a talk outside, but there was no published schedule of when those programs were happening. We downloaded the (free) app and took the driving tour. You are able to go at your own pace and stop at each place and get out to look around. Definitely recommend getting out at the Redoubts (walk down the path to the left to see the redoubt structure) and Surrender Field (there is an overlook and a path down to see the cannons that were surrendered by Cornwallis). Recommend doing the "red" tour as a minimuim, but the "yellow" route was also interesting. Our 13 year old was very interested, and kids 15 and under are free. You can save your receipt and get a 50% discount at Historic Jamestown within 7 days. (If you have already visited Historic Jamestown, then the battlefield is free) See more..
4.5 Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus (1.650 reviews)
- Staying overnight on BB64 is a MUST
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Ships

Berthed at Nauticus, the Battleship Wisconsin is one of the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy. Access to the Battleship Wisconsin is included in Nauticus admission. Explore its deck through a self-guided tour or, with an additional charge, one of our guided tours that will take you back in time to experience this majestic ship that earned five battle stars during WW II. See more..
4.5 Yorktown Sailing Charters (1.648 reviews)
- Sailing Into The Sunset ... If There Is A Sunset!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Boat Tours

A well organized schooner sailing experience. About thirty guests and a crew of four travelled two hours on the York River. Covid-19 presentations and USCG Safety Briefings were appropriate. The challenge for this vendor is an unusually large number of uncontrolled variables. Our experience was a sun-free, sunset cruise, a sailing experience without wind and an offering of amenities limited by Covid-19 controls. With no outside food and beverage allowed, we were limited to house wine, beer and soft drinks, some snacks and cold hot dogs, all offered for sale at reasonable rates. The Mate providing the spiel regarding schooners, sailing and local history was informative and helpful but not able to give guests full attention during her sailing duties. The Guest areas on deck are minimal, uncomfortable and not conducive to social distancing. No availability to restroom facilities was problematic for several guests from the start. See more..