‘Virginia is for lovers’ is a famous slogan, but it is for family, solo travellers, and everyone. Its rich history, various outdoor activities, natural beauty, pristine beaches, and incredible historical monuments attract thousands of families annually. Are you planning to spend a weekend in this beautiful state? Here are the top weekend getaways in Virginia to have fun and create unforgettable memories with your family.
Best Weekend Getaways In Virginia
1. Williamsburg
Keep your family active with hikes and bike rides at the Freedom Park. It has a Butterfly Garden which will fascinate your whole family. If you want to have thrilling fun with your family, visit Go-Kart Plus, which is home to rides, shooting galleries, blaster boats, etc. Do you love to climb trees and other treetop adventures like ziplines, Tarzan swings, and others? If so, you should visit GoApe. If your kids are years and above, you should take a segway tour to explore the area.
2. Richmond
Visit Maymont Farm to let your kids learn about life on a farm and enjoy the experience of feeding farm animals. King’s Dominion is a paradise for little ones, home to more than 50 rides. Soak City, adjacent to King’s Dominion water rides, has thrilling water rides and a relaxing lazy river and wave pool. Take your kids to the Science Museum of Virginia, which offers interactive and educational exhibits. Solve puzzles together with your family at the Amazing Scavenger Hunt.
3. Bristol
Have fun with your friends and family at the Aerial Adventure Park where you can test your skills by climbing on dangling ropes, racing through the trees in ziplines, walking on rope bridges, etc. Take your kids to the Kids Adventure Park if they are 4 to 7 years old. The activities are designed to improve their balancing and coordinating skills and confidence. Stroll through the historic downtown and enjoy the local food, live music, and other entertainment.
4. Shenandoah Valley
Shenandoah Valley is ideal for families as it has several family-friendly activities that suit all ages. You have plenty to choose from including Dinosaur Land, Frontier Culture Museum, Virginia Safari Park, Discovery Museum, etc. Shenandoah National Park, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a natural paradise to explore with your family, listening to the sounds of water and feeling the gentle breeze on your face. The place has several family-friendly hiking trails where you can have leisurely meals.
5. Chincoteague Island
This small island is popular for its incomparable beauty. Its tranquil beaches, diverse wildlife, picturesque woodlands, wild horses, and breathtaking sunrise and sunset make it an ideal place to enjoy with your family during your weekend getaways in Virginia. Go on hiking and biking trails to watch the wild ponies. Campfires on the beach will help you to create long-lasting memories. Climb to the top of the lighthouse to view the scenic view. If you are lucky, you can watch rocket launches from Wallops Island near the south of Chincoteague Island.
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6. Old Town Alexandria
This old city, founded in 1749, has an interesting history. You can learn about its history from its museums. A visit to Old Town Alexandria will only be complete with a visit to the historic King Street. Reaching the street by a water taxi will be a unique experience. Take a stroll in the street to admire the old architecture of the old buildings, have delicious food in one of the restaurants, and shop from the numerous boutiques. Visit the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum to step into the Harry Potter world with your kids.
7. Arlington
The place is home to many monuments and memorials, including the George Washington Memorial, Arlington Memorial Bridge, Theodore Roosevelt Island Park, and Arlington National Cemetery. It is also packed with parks and trails where you can enjoy diverse outdoor activities with your family. You can solve puzzles in escape rooms and encourage your kids to climb on indoor walls, relax in a lazy river pool, and go for plane spotting. Relax with your kids in the Pollinator Room of Gulf Nature Center and Park, where you can watch vibrant flowers, cute hummingbirds, and colorful butterflies.
8. Virginia Beach
It is a fantastic family beach destination where you can enjoy adventurous sports and relax on the clean sandy shores. Visit the Ocean Breeze Waterpark to splash and laugh in the wave pool with your family. First Landing State Park has a diverse ecosystem that impresses you and offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, swimming, biking, boating, and fishing. Let your kids know about the farm life and let them experience the happiness of petting and feeding animals at the Hunt Club Farm.
9. Meadows of Dan
You can enjoy the small-town charm, beauty of nature, and thrilling outdoor activities in the Meadows of Dan. If you and your family love candies, you should visit Nancy’s Candy Company, where you can find an infinite variety of delicious candies. Fly from one treetop to another at Buffalo Mountain Ziplines, Virginia’s largest and longest zipline. Explore the Mabry Mill, a historical place where you can see a live demo of flour grinding. Splash in the water at the water park.
10. Orange County
Orange County is a paradise for history buffs, adventure freaks, sports fans, and peace lovers. It is a perfect weekend getaway for family as it has something to offer for all. History buffs will be happy exploring James Madison’s Montpelier and the Civil War Museum. If you want to relax peacefully with your family and enjoy outdoor adventures, visit the Lake Anna State Park. Paddle through the River Rqapidan on a kayak admiring the tranquil beauty of nature.
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11. Bath County
It is a wonderful place where you can have fun throughout the year at the Douthat National Park, George Washington National Forest, and Lake Moomaw, this destination offers fantastic weekend getaways in Virginia. Bath County is famous for skiing, hiking, biking, fishing, boating, camping, and many more attractions. You can soak in the open thermal springs beneath the blue skies. The spring season is lovely, with blooming wildflowers. You will fall in love with the spectacular beauty. Eat, drink, and dine in the best bars and restaurants in the county.
12. Rocky Mount
There are many things to entertain you and your family in Rocky Mount, making it a perfect choice for weekend getaways in Virginia. Visit Rocky Mount Mill, an ideal spot to enjoy with your family. There are kid- and pet-friendly breweries that host live music and other events. Spend some time here with a can of craft beer. Sunset Park with its splash park, train, and rides is a fantastic place to spend your evening. City Lake is a great spot to have a picnic and spend quality time.
13. Appomattox
Learn about the impressive history of this town at the American Civil War Museum, Patrick Henry National Memorial, Carver Price Legacy Museum, and National Historical Park. The exhibits in the museum include hundreds of artifacts, documents, photographs, uniforms of soldiers, and many more. The Museums and memorials host festivals and events throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways in Virginia. Explore the greenery and the beauty of nature in the Holiday Lake State Park.
14. Wolf Trap
The most popular spot in Wolf Trap is the National Park. Take a scenic hike through the woods with your family to create cherishable memories. The trails are short and easy for kids to walk. Watch performances at the Filene Center and Theater in the Woods. Enjoy a picnic, spreading a blanket on the green lawn. You can also watch live concerts lying down and relaxing on the lawn. If you visit the place in April, you will be stunned by the beauty of cherry blossoms.
15. Charlottesville
A visit to this vibrant town with your family will be an unforgettable experience as it combines picturesque beauty, culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Take a wine tour to enjoy the taste and aroma of fresh wine. Take a stroll in the downtown to shop and eat at the unique boutiques and restaurants lining the streets. Visit art museums to immerse yourself in the art and culture of the town.
Final Words
From historical sites to arts, culture, cuisine, and indoor and outdoor adventures, Virginia assures a wealth of experiences to enjoy with your family. Plan your weekend getaways in Virginia and discover the amazing things it offers.
