Va State Map Of Counties
Va State Map Of Counties
Virginia is a beautiful state with a diverse landscape, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. With 95 counties and 38 independent cities, Virginia has a lot to offer. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports across Virginia’s counties.
Top Attractions
Virginia is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. One of the top attractions is the Arlington National Cemetery, where more than 400,000 military veterans are buried. Another must-visit is the Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum that recreates the 18th-century colonial capital of Virginia. The Luray Caverns, Natural Bridge, and Shenandoah National Park are also popular attractions for tourists.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Virginia has plenty of hidden gems. The Chincoteague Island, located on the Eastern Shore, is a quaint fishing village that offers beautiful beaches and wild ponies. The Abingdon Historic District, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, is a charming town with historic homes, boutiques, and restaurants. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, located in Chesapeake, is a 112,000-acre wilderness area that’s perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
Food Scene
Virginia is known for its southern-style cuisine and seafood. The state’s signature dish is the Virginia ham, which is cured and smoked in the traditional style. Other popular dishes include Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, oysters, and peanuts. Some of the top restaurants in Virginia are The Inn at Little Washington, The Roosevelt, and The Shack.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Virginia has plenty of affordable options. The Virginia State Parks offer cabins and campsites for a reasonable price. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Holocaust Museum offer free admission. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk and the Mount Vernon Trail are great for free outdoor activities.
Outdoor Adventures
Virginia’s natural beauty is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The state has over 500 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail. The James River is a popular spot for kayaking and rafting. The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile bike trail that runs through the Appalachian Mountains. The state also has several ski resorts, including Wintergreen Resort and Massanutten Resort.
Historical Landmarks
Virginia played a significant role in the history of the United States. The state has several historical landmarks, including the Jamestown Settlement, the first permanent English settlement in America. The Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is also a must-visit.
Family-Friendly Activities
Virginia has plenty of activities for families with children. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, located in Virginia Beach, is home to more than 800,000 gallons of aquariums and live animal habitats. The Busch Gardens Williamsburg is an amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and live shows. The Kings Dominion amusement park, located in Doswell, also offers a variety of rides and attractions.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for unique experiences, Virginia has plenty to offer. The Virginia Safari Park, located in Natural Bridge, is a drive-thru zoo where visitors can feed giraffes and other exotic animals. The Virginia Museum of the Civil War, located in New Market, offers a glimpse into the life of a Civil War soldier. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, located in Winchester, features a collection of decorative arts, including ceramics, glass, and furniture.
Natural Wonders
Virginia is home to several natural wonders. The Natural Bridge, located in Rockbridge County, is a 215-foot natural limestone arch that was once owned by Thomas Jefferson. The Shenandoah Caverns, located in the Shenandoah Valley, is a series of underground caverns with stunning rock formations. The Great Falls Park, located in Fairfax County, is a beautiful park with hiking trails and waterfalls.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out, Virginia has a vibrant nightlife scene. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a popular spot for bars and clubs. The Carytown neighborhood in Richmond is known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops. The Downtown Mall in Charlottesville is a pedestrian-friendly area with restaurants, bars, and live music venues.
Local Markets
Virginia’s local markets offer a unique shopping experience. The Virginia Beach Farmers Market is a year-round market that offers fresh produce, seafood, and baked goods. The South of the James Farmers Market, located in Richmond, is a weekly market that features local produce, honey, and handmade crafts. The Virginia Highlands Farmers Market, located in Abingdon, is a seasonal market that offers a variety of local products.
Beaches and Mountains
Virginia’s landscape is diverse, with both beaches and mountains. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The Blue Ridge Mountains offer hiking trails, scenic drives, and panoramic views. The Shenandoah Valley is also a popular spot for outdoor activities.
Cultural Immersion
Virginia has a rich cultural history, with several museums and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the state’s past. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, located in Richmond, features a collection of American art, European art, and ancient art. The Virginia Holocaust Museum, located in Richmond, offers a sobering look at the Holocaust. The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, located in Richmond, features exhibits on the contributions of African Americans to Virginia’s history.
Art and Music Scene
Virginia has a vibrant art and music scene. The Virginia Opera, located in Norfolk, offers world-class performances. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra, located in Virginia Beach, is the state’s largest performing arts organization. The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, located in Virginia Beach, features contemporary art exhibitions and educational programs.
Walking Tours
Virginia’s cities offer plenty of opportunities for walking tours. The Richmond Slave Trail is a self-guided tour that explores the history of the slave trade in Virginia. The Alexandria Colonial Tours offer guided tours of Alexandria’s historic sites. The Norfolk Naval Base Tour offers a glimpse into the world’s largest naval base.
Architectural Marvels
Virginia’s architecture is a blend of colonial, neoclassical, and modern styles. The Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. The Monticello, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Chrysler Museum of Art, located in Norfolk, features a collection of decorative arts, including glass, ceramics, and furniture.
Historical Sites
Virginia is rich in history, with several sites that played a significant role in the history of the United States. The Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, located in Appomattox, is where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant, ending the Civil War. The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, located in Fredericksburg, is where several Civil War battles took place. The Booker T. Washington National Monument, located in Hardy, is where Booker T. Washington was born and grew up.
Biking Routes
Virginia has several scenic biking routes. The Virginia Capital Trail is a 52-mile trail that runs from Richmond to Williamsburg. The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile bike trail that runs through the Appalachian Mountains. The Mount Vernon Trail is a 17-mile trail that runs along the Potomac River, offering stunning views of Washington, D.C.
Wellness Retreats
Virginia’s natural beauty and peaceful environment make it an ideal destination for wellness retreats. The Yogaville Ashram, located in Buckingham, offers yoga retreats, meditation, and spiritual programs. The Salamander Resort & Spa, located in Middleburg, offers luxurious spa treatments and wellness programs. The Boar’s Head Resort, located in Charlottesville, offers fitness classes, spa treatments, and outdoor activities.
Adventure Sports
Virginia’s diverse landscape offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. The James River is a popular spot for kayaking and rafting. The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile bike trail that runs through the Appalachian Mountains. The Wintergreen Resort and Massanutten Resort offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
Virginia’s counties offer a wealth of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or cultural immersion, Virginia has something for everyone. Come and explore Virginia’s counties and discover all that this beautiful state has to offer
