20 Top Virginia Destinations

Virginia is a destination for many reasons from the natural beauty to the historical. For the Civil War buff this is a region of much history. For the family who likes learning vacations there’s a chance to step into history as well as entertain the kids with rides and modern things in the same trip without vast amounts of area in between. Come to Virginia…you might just decide to retire in one of our Virginia retirement communities!Here’s 20 things to explore!

Number 1 - 5

1.  Potomac Basin outdoors is a spot for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The tidal river features largemouth bass for a challenge as well as many areas to explore and enjoy the wildlife and outdoor areas. Camping opportunities abound in the coastal areas too, offering beautiful views and wildlife not often seen by many.

2.  Shenandoah National Park is one of the most famous of natural beauties with mountain areas, restaurants, gift shops, wildlife and spectacular views from higher elevations looking over the valleys and towns. On a given day you might find raspberries and blueberries that feed the wildlife including bear. Wildlife is found in the air, along the roads, near campsites and on the ground from hawks to snakes to many deer that graze between camping tents in some areas. The Shenandoah National Park is a national treasure that includes a 105 mile scenic byway called Skyline Drive. The Appalachian Trail also runs through the park with 500 miles of hiking trails in the area. Camping varies from tents to resort and lodge accommodations. All four seasons have amazing things to offer from wildflowers to a changing view from the green in the summer to snow draped ground in the winter that allows looking deeper into the forested areas. If you have ever wanted to live in this paradise that is Shenandoah then the Shenandoah Community may be a good place to call home

3.  Luray Caverns is likely the most beautiful “hole in the ground” ever found in North America. In 1878 a sinkhole was discovered by a local tinsmith, with mineral deposits ‘fed’ by water that creates an underground wonderland made even more beautiful with lighting. With 400 million years in the making we’ve only relatively recently discovered this underground treasure of passages stalactites and stalagmites. Historical centers highlighting the history of the area offer further information and insight into this beautiful and unusual place that maintains a temperature of the mid 50s year round. The colors are natural, the sounds unusual and it’s a place you won’t soon forget.

4.  Manassas National Battlefield Park – This is the site of two major battles commonly referred to as the first and second Battles of Bull Run, scored as victories for the Confederates. The first left 900 men dead in 10 hours while the second claimed 3,300 casualties.   A museum and orientation is a prelude to a one mile walking tour around Henry Hill. You can almost hear the whispers of soldiers in the wind in this historic place.

5.  Take in dinner and a theater performance that surrounds you. For under $45 and with locations in Williamsburg, Richmond, Virginia Beach and near Arlington this is a chance for good food and entertainment. Mysterydinner.com has the details of locations and aside from a dinner out that also has a play acted out in and around the people, with prizes for the audience members that figure out the answers. Pay attention to everyone you meet! Birthdays, anniversaries and other occasions are recognized during the evening also.