When it comes to finding a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life, Virginia is home to some of the best destinations for an unforgettable weekend getaway. With so many charming cities dotting the landscape and beautiful natural wonders peppered throughout, you will find whatever type of escape you are searching for in this list of the 19 best getaways in Virginia. Few things can instantly whisk us away to another world, like an unforgettable weekend getaway.
Whether you are an intrepid explorer or prefer exploring at a slower pace, there is something for everyone on this list of the 19 best Virginia weekend getaways.
1. Charlottesville
Charlottesville is a city that never seems to stand still, thanks to the young, energetic vibe that permeates the city. When you are not exploring the city’s charming downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, you can head up to the University of Virginia to explore the beautiful grounds of this historic college. Be sure to add a stop at Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, one of the fascinating figures in American history.
Once you explore the sites in Charlottesville, make your way a bit farther south to the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. This beautiful range is home to various natural wonders, including the gorgeous Shenandoah National Park. You will find endless adventures here, from hiking to horseback riding to biking. If you are visiting in the fall or spring, add a visit to the famous Skyline drive to your itinerary.
If you love learning history, see some fantastic museums in the area. They may include the Virginia Discovery Museum or the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society.
2. Shenandoah National Park
The Blue Ridge Mountains may be a lovely place to visit year-round, but they come alive in the fall when transformed into a sea of vibrant reds and oranges. To experience the full fall foliage effect, make the 2-hour drive to the Blue Ridge Mountains and visit the stunningly beautiful Shenandoah National Park.
You will discover that it is worth the drive to see the fall foliage at its best. Driving along Skyline Drive in the fall is an incredible experience, but if you want to see the leaves in their full glory, plan to visit in mid-October. It is among the best Virginia weekend getaways if you are a nature lover.
Enjoy the impressive scenery in the park, orchestrating cascading waterfalls and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. The park also has over 500 miles where you can hike. Shenandoah National Park has more than 200,000 backcountry acreage; tourists will enjoy lush and unbothered camping grounds.
3. Fredericksburg
This charming riverside town is one of Virginia’s most popular weekend getaways, and for a good reason. Fredericksburg is home to numerous charming shops and restaurants, many of which offer patio seating along the Rappahannock River, perfect for enjoying the stunning river views. When the sun goes down, Fredericksburg offers an incredible nightlife dotted with concerts, live music, and plenty of spots to sip on a cocktail or enjoy a local craft beer.
And, of course, Fredericksburg is home to several historical attractions worth visiting while you are there. Some historical structures include Stevenson Ridge, which is an 87-acre inn that holds nine private cottages. Fredericksburg is never short of museums to marvel at, including the National Museum of the Pacific War and the Mary Washington House.
Make sure you visit the stunning gardens at Kenmore Plantation & Gardens or the Georgian-style brick mansion in town. You could also check out the antique shops in Old Town.
4. Richmond
Richmond is a charmingly unassuming city: it is not flashy or fancy, but it is home to some of Virginia’s best museums, fantastic food, and a stunning riverfront that is simply impossible to ignore. Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and explore hundreds of pieces from the Renaissance to today, or head to the Virginia Historical Society to explore an extensive collection of artifacts from the city’s past.
You will discover that Richmond is a city of many tastes. Visit the famous Ukrop’s Homestyle Food – Kitchen or the quaint Three Bears Bakery to taste Virginia’s hearty, southern cuisine. If you want something more upscale, head to The Jefferson for classic French cuisine. Richmond is full of historical significance dating back to the Colonial and Civil War eras.
History buffs can also check out the Hollywood Cemetery or the American Civil War Museum. You could also stroll through the town and admire century-old architecture like the Maymont.
5. Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a top-rated destination for vacationers of all types. You will find various outdoor activities, from hiking to mountain biking to horseback riding. It is where you will also come across charming bed-and-breakfast hotels, unique shops, and award-winning vineyards perfect for spending a weekend away.
Explore the Blue Ridge Mountains on a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the most visited national park in the U.S. The parkway runs 469 miles, making it easy to find a section that fits your travel plans. The Blue Ridge Mountains orchestrate numerous scenic hiking trails where you can enjoy breathtaking surrounding views. Photography lovers can stop by the Mabry Mill and take magnificent photos. The Blue Ridge Mountains offer visitors the best Virginia weekend getaways.
6. Williamsburg
This iconic Virginia destination is one of our country’s most historic cities and a must-visit for anyone interested in American history. It is known as the Colonial Capital of the state. Explore the grounds of the famed Colonial Williamsburg, home of the world’s largest outdoor living history museum, where costumed guides bring history to life.
You can also visit the Jamestown Settlement, the sister site of Colonial Williamsburg, to learn more about the first permanent English colony in Virginia. If you visit in the fall, add a trip to the Virginia Sheep and Wool Festival to your itinerary. You won’t miss the opportunity to explore the sheep shearing, sheep dog demonstrations, and, of course, the sheep fleece spinning.
Tour the Busch Gardens Williamsburg for stunning rides and other thrills if you love adventure, such as roller coasters. Do not leave town without exploring Jamestown and the renowned Yorktown Battlefield.
7. Hampton Roads
Hampton Roads is an area full of culture, history, and plenty of things to do and see. Start your trip in charming Norfolk, where you will find a thriving arts scene and an incredible variety of restaurants and shops. You can also explore the world’s most extensive naval base, home to the U.S.S. Virginia, on a guided tour from the Hampton Roads Naval Museum.
Next, make your way to Virginia Beach, a lively beach town where you can spend your days soaking up the sun and your nights enjoying the live music and nightlife. And don’t forget to visit the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center along the way, where you can learn more about the ocean and its inhabitants.
Outdoor lovers will also have a great time here. From diverse water sports on the beach, such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, to hiking and camping itineraries, there is everything for you here.
8. Norfolk
This charming city is Virginia’s third largest, offering the best Virginia weekend getaways. Norfolk offers a wide variety of things to do, from touring the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to visiting the Tautog Fishing Center and the nearby Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. While in the area, visit nearby Portsmouth city for more attractions.
This city is also home to a fantastic waterfront and several historic attractions. The best part about this city is that you can enjoy various water sports at the beach while still in the town area. Whether you want to kite surf, surf, kayak, or paddleboard, there are all sorts of water activities to enjoy here. Norfolk is also home to magnificent botanical gardens where you can bond with nature and take in the fresh breeze.
Historical buffs can check out various museums in Norfolk, including Hermitage Museum and Gardens, Chrysler Museum, and Hunter House Victorian Museum.
9. Alexandria
Alexandria is a few minutes from Washington, D.C, and an excellent choice for those who want a quick weekend getaway without traveling too far from home. Visit Alexandria’s many historical attractions, including the Carlyle House, Union Hall, and the Torpedo Factory Art Center, or spend your days shopping at the Brandermill Outlet Mall and Tysons Corner Mall.
When the sun goes down, head to Alexandria’s lively waterfront to enjoy one of the many restaurants and bars overlooking the Potomac River or attend a concert at the nearby Eagle Bank Arena. Alexandria is home to various historic homes and a pedestrian-friendly city. Book a water cruise or taxi and discover the Potomac River.
Some historical sites and structures to explore include the Carlyle House, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, and the Gadsby Tavern Museum. You could also check out the Torpedo Factory and uncover the artist’s galleries and studios.
10. Virginia Beach
This lively city is one of Virginia’s most popular destinations for beachgoers. Still, it is also home to some fantastic attractions and historical sites worth exploring if you do not fancy hitting the sand. This beautiful golden oasis also offers visitors the best Virginia weekend getaways.
Visit the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art to explore the city’s fascinating past, or take a self-guided tour of the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, where you will learn about the area’s rich fishing history. If you are visiting with your family, add a visit to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to your itinerary. This famous stretch of sand is full of family-friendly attractions and activities, including the Children’s Beach.
You could design to soak up the sun and lay on the pristine beach all day. However, you can also check out the Virginia Aquarium or make your way to the Cape Henry Lighthouse. Virginia Beach is also home to First Landing State Park, where you can flex your muscles and run a few meters or kilometers.
11. Luray Caverns
The Luray Caverns are located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwestern Virginia. These are the only commercial caverns in the United States that are open year-round. These limestone caverns have been a tourist attraction since 1878.
Visitors can walk a short distance on the Wild Cave Tour, but due to the tour’s brutal nature and high humidity, certain health conditions may preclude a person from participating.
Luray Caverns drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains and into Shenandoah National Park. These limestone caves offer picturesque views as you can take stunning pictures in the caverns for your social media. If you love outdoor hiking, you will enjoy exploring the Luray Caverns.
12. Chesapeake
Chesapeake is the home of Smith Mountain Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Virginia, with over 100 miles of shoreline. Smith Mountain Lake is known for its many recreational activities, including sailing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, and boating. Chesapeake is also known for the Dismal Swamp, a wildlife refuge and swamp in southeastern Virginia.
The main entrance to the Dismal Swamp is located near the town of Chesapeake, where you can find Dismal Swamp State Park and a small visitor center. If you love exploring nature at its best, this is the place to visit during the weekend. Chesapeake also offers tourists the best Virginia weekend getaways.
You can also check out Northwest River Park and enjoy the various recreational activities here. History buffs can tour the different museums around Chesapeake. They may include A.R. Workshop Chesapeake and the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum.
13. Blacksburg
Blacksburg is among the best Virginia weekend getaways in the New River Valley. The town is home to Virginia Tech, a research university in Virginia. Blacksburg’s most popular tourist attraction is the Blacksburg Museum and Cultural Foundation, which features art and archaeological artifacts. You could tour the Moss Arts Center and marvel at the various artifacts on display here.
Visitors can also tour the Hahn Horticulture Garden and enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature. Other museums you can explore include William Preston’s Smithfield, Children’s Museum of Blacksburg, Museum of Geosciences, and Perspective Gallery. Blacksburg also hosts the annual Virginia Folk Festival and the Virginia Sweet Corn Festival each August.
14. Leesburg
Leesburg is a charming historic small town in northern Virginia, founded in 1740. It is the hub of one of the most famous wine-growing areas in the country. The wine trail includes wineries on both sides of the Potomac River and is only a short drive from Washington, DC.
The historic downtown Leesburg area is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a great place to visit for a day trip or weekend getaway. Some prominent destinations in Leesburg include the Marshall House and Ida Lee Park. Marvel at the park and experience the town’s serenity as you bond with nature. Leesburg is among the best Virginia weekend getaways and orchestrates lush museums and historical monuments.
Some museums include the Loudoun Museum, Morven Park Grounds, Winmill Carriage Museum, and Museum of Hounds and Hunting. You can finish off at the Leesburg Animal Park for a memorable itinerary and trip.
15. Primland
Primland covers roughly 12,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Meadows of Dan, Virginia. It is the perfect place to go if you love the outdoors. Primland is surrounded by State Parks, National Parks, and National Forests. Outdoors lovers will have the best time around this luxury resort in Virginia, where they can hike, bike, fish, canoe, and kayak year-round.
It is also a great place to visit during the fall when the changing leaves are at their peak or during winter when the snow creates a beautiful landscape. The resort is just 70 miles off Roanoke, and this is where you will receive top-notch services. You could decide to book a cottage or treehouse to enjoy the striking views.
The rooms in this resort have everything you could ask for, such as private balconies, fireplaces, and soaking tubs for relaxing sessions. You will also enjoy spa sessions with massage therapies with your loved one for the ultimate leisure and rest.
16. Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a small coastal town in Virginia on the Delmarva Peninsula. Chincoteague is probably best known for its stunning sandy beaches and wild ponies. However, the world-famous ponies are not the only attraction in Chincoteague; you can engage in many other outdoor activities. Top outdoor adventures include biking and hiking trails.
You could also engage in boating and fishing activities in Chincoteague. Check out the Snug Harbor and explore the island on a boat tour. Visitors can also book a trip on the Assateague Explorer to discover the hidden areas where they can see dolphins, eagles, or ponies. Check-in at the Hampton Inn and Suites Chincoteague if you want somewhere to stay.
17. George Washington National Forest
The George Washington National Forest is located in southwestern Virginia, although the town of Roanoke is the main gateway. The forest is among the largest in Virginia and covers six counties. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachian Trail, and Virginia Creeper Trail are all located in the woods.
There are many places to visit, including the acclaimed Virginia Civil War Trails, accessible from Roanoke. The forest is an excellent destination for hiking, backpacking, camping, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and exploring, with many botanical gardens and beautiful wildflower fields in the spring.
George Washington Forest is one of the best places in the country for viewing fall foliage. This national forest is perfect for outdoor lovers exploring the best Virginia weekend getaways.
18. Lexington
Lexington pays homage to Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute. It is also the birthplace of American folklore hero John Henry.
The campus features many beautiful gardens and architectural features. Washington and Lee University features magnificent buildings, including the George Washington Memorial Hall and Lee Chapel, which can be toured. Lexington is also the home of the American Civil War Center at Virginia Military Institute.
The Center is open to the public and an excellent place to learn about the area’s history. You could also discover the historic Lee Chapel in the institute. Check out the Boxerwood Nature Center and Woodlands Gardens in Lexington or the Stonewall Jackson House.
19. Grayson Highlands State Park
Grayson Highlands State Park is an outdoor recreation area in southwestern Virginia. The park features beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is an excellent place for hiking and wildlife viewing. There are many trails to suit hikers of all abilities. The tracks feature stunning views of the natural landscape and many areas where wildflowers grow.
Wildlife in the park includes black bears, black-tailed deer, bobcats, grouse, many species of birds, and coyotes. The park also offers trails for horseback riding and is an ideal place for a mountain bike ride. There is also a campground where you can enjoy the great outdoors. The park is open all year and makes the best Virginia weekend getaway at any time of the year. Grayson Highlands State Park also pays homage to wild ponies.
Final Thoughts
These are among the best Virginia weekend getaways in all their splendor, especially the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park. There are many options for your fall foliage trip to Shenandoah National Park. If you want to take in as much beauty as possible, plan to spend a week enjoying the mountains and visiting some of the many attractions along Skyline Drive. Or schedule a weekend trip, leaving plenty of time for hiking, among other outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I go 3 hours from D.C.?
As much as Washington DC offers many attractions, other nearby attractions will blow your mind away. These destinations are just three hours away from the city and entail lush and stunning attractions. They may include Old Town Alexandria, New York City, Harpers Ferry, Ocean City, Philadelphia, Gettysburg, The Greenbrier, and Annapolis.
What should I do for a romantic weekend away?
There are several things and activities you can try for a romantic weekend. If you love wines, you could look for wine-tasting tours in Virginia; if you are nature lovers, look for outdoor activities such as camping or hiking in the Blue Ridge mountains in Virginia. Virginia is also full of lush and exotic resorts where you can experience high-quality services and amenities. Enjoy spa dates with your lover at these resorts.
What is the best place for couples to vacation?
Couples have many destinations in the United States where they can have a good time and unwind. Some lush and romantic getaways include Santa Fe, Yellowstone National Park, Scottsdale, New York, Savannah, Molokai, Kauai, and Napa Valley. Couples can also check out Lexington, Leesburg, Blacksburg, and Luray Caverns in Virginia.
