Top 10 Best Weekend Getaways in Virginia with Family 2024
Are you looking for a vacation and want to know what the best weekend getaways in Virginia are? Well, you're in luck because we've got you covered! Virginia is truly a gem when it comes to weekend getaways. There are just about all kinds of landscapes and even vibrant cities to explore.
I love traveling to Virginia! One of my longtime best friends lives here, it's close to Washington DC, one of my best work friends lives here, and I spent a lot of time exploring Virginia when I was a kid.
I'm here to show you some of Virginia's most unique getaways because I have decades of experience telling you the best things to do and not to miss.
Be Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, an action-packed adventure or a trip back in time, Virginia has you covered. From the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains to the vintage charm of Old Town Alexandria, from the quiet beauty of Chincoteague Island to a beach getaway in Virginia Beach, this state is full of unique attractions and breathtaking views.
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So let's take a look and find out the best places to visit in Virginia. Grab your travel bag, it's time to start planning your next unforgettable weekend getaways in Virginia 2024!
The Best Weekend Getaways in Virginia - Virginia Beach Weekend
Virginia Beach is a beautiful coastal city where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the best vacations in Virginia any time of year.
I have many friends who live here and have been several times and it is worth it. travel, as there are many options for a weekend in Virginia Beach!
Virginia Beach offers lots of fun with its water activities. You have time to book a whale or dolphin watching cruise, it will be an unforgettable experience in the Atlantic. Most boat tours depart from Rudee Inlet on 5th Street, overlooking the water.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit at The State of First Landing park is a must. to be seen. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails and 1.5 miles of sandy beaches. It's the perfect place if you like long walks or a bike ride. For thrills, head across the street from the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront to iFly Indoor Skydiving. This fun indoor adventure is perfect for all ages.
Virginia Beach offers a variety of fun events year-round. From music festivals to wine or beer festivals, there is always something happening. Check the events calendar on the Virginia Beach website to see what's happening during your visit.
A romantic weekend in Virginia Beach could include a reservation at the Hilton Virginia Beach. Directly on the sea with breathtaking views of the Atlantic and all the romantic atmosphere you are looking for.
1: The Greenbrier
The Greenbrier is a luxury resort also known as "America's Resort". It has been welcoming visitors since the founding of the United States in 1778. Located in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains near White Sulfur Springs, it is a National Historic Landmark. 27 US presidents have visited the Greenbrier in the last 200 years.
A friend of mine who lives in Virginia comes here all the time! It's one of her favorite weekend getaways in Virginia for friends and couples. How romantic and fun!
The resort is located on 11,000 acres of beautiful mountains, offering guests an enchanting setting. You can explore the sprawling property by horse-drawn carriage for one of Virginia's most unique weekend getaways.
The Greenbrier is famous not only for its beauty and history, but also for its history, its services and its activities on site. If you're lucky, there's an on-site casino where you can try your luck.
2: Shenandoah National Park
Next up is one of Virginia's cheap weekend getaways in Shenandoah National Park. It is best known for its breathtaking views, waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
The park's most famous attraction is Skyline Drive. This is a 170 kilometer road that passes through the entire park along the Blue Ridge Mountains. This scenic route offers 70 overlooks with breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Piedmont Mountain Range to the east.
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For hikers, the park offers much more 500 miles of hiking trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. These trails range from easy to challenging hikes that lead to beautiful waterfalls, scenic views, and tranquil forested areas.
Plus, Shenandoah National Park is full of scenic views wild. . animals. Expect to see deer, black bears, and plenty of birds on your excursion.
Shenandoah offers a variety of lodging options for those looking to stay the entire weekend. You can choose between traditional inns and cozy chalets, or for a more rustic weekend, several campsites offer the possibility of pitching a tent.
3: Massanutten Resort
Massanutten Resort is consistently rated one of the best mountain weekend getaways in Virginia. This stunning property is located in the heart of Virginia. It covers 6,000 hectares of mountainous terrain. It is known not only for its size, but also for the variety of services you can enjoy all year round.
Whatever the season, you can enjoy a refreshing day at the water park. In the summer you can enjoy the outdoor water park and in the winter you can swim indoors.
For winter sports, Massanutten Resort has a high park. They are found throughout Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania. There are 1,110 feet of thrilling terrain and 14 runs so all types of skiers can enjoy the mountain. When it stops snowing, Massanutten becomes the most beautiful cycle path.
The location of the resort also adds to its charm. Conveniently located just minutes from Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive, it is the ideal home base for exploring Virginia's natural beauty.
4: Williamsburg
Williamsburg, Virginia, is a city rich in history and tradition and an ideal place for a weekend in Virginia. If you don't know, Williamsburg is known for its important role in the American Revolution. Plus, there's a living history museum that takes you back to the 18th century.
You can also visit Colonial Williamsburg. It is the largest outdoor history museum in the United States. Stroll the cobbled streets, visit historic buildings, and meet artists in period dress bringing history to life.
I've come here so many times! ! ! When I was little, I wore a hat and skirt and walked around Colonial Williamsburg with my parents and sister. It was so much fun and I still love it as an adult!
In addition to its historical significance, Williamsburg also has a variety of modern attractions to offer. It is home to Busch Gardens. It's an action-packed adventure park with roller coasters, delicious food, and exciting themed events year-round.
Williamsburg is also known for its superior education. The most notable is the College of William & Mary, the second oldest college in the United States. The beautiful campus adds charm to the city and attracts students from all over the world.
For nature lovers, Williamsburg also offers numerous parks and nature trails. Perfect for walking, cycling and picnics. Williamsburg is one of the best weekend destinations in Virginia for a complete vacation.
5: Alexandria
Alexandria, Virginia is one of the best places for a weekend in Virginia! This historic Virginia city is located on the banks of the Potomac River and just a few miles from Washington, D.C. Alexandria is best known for its history, beautifully preserved buildings and stunning waterfront.
In the heart of Alexandria lies Old Town, which separates the neighborhood from the Old Town. Out of town. There are cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, and numerous shops and restaurants. King Street, the main street, is often referred to as one of America's "great streets.
One of the most famous places in Alexandria is the Torpedo Factory Art Center. It was once a naval torpedo factory, but today the building houses artists' laboratories and galleries and inside there is also an archaeological museum.
If you're traveling, He's a history buff. , Alexandria offers many historical sites and museums. The George Washington Masonic National Memorial, Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, and Carlyle House Historical Park are some of the best museums to visit.
And, of course, we must talk about Alexandria's proximity to Washington, D.C. In just under 30 minutes you'll be in the nation's capital. You can also visit national attractions like the Smithsonian Museums, the National Mall, and the US Capitol, all just a short subway ride away.
If you're looking for your weekend in Virginia, the Mount Vernon Trail is the perfect starting point. It is a 12-mile scenic trail that runs along the Potomac River from Mount Vernon to Theodore Roosevelt Island. Additionally, Alexandria's waterfront is also a popular spot for recreational boating, kayaking, and boating.
6: The Omni Homestead
The Omni Homestead Resort is located in Hot Springs, Virginia. This is a luxury retreat offering numerous activities and experiences for one of the most romantic weekends in Virginia. This exclusive Virginia resort is home to a two-acre water park. Alternatively, you can sunbathe, take a refreshing swim or simply relax by the pool.
You can also hike into the gorges of the nearby waterfalls. This scenic trail features beautiful waterfalls and different flowers, offering a perfect combination of adventure and nature. Get your clubs ready too, because the Omni Resort has one of the most highly rated golf courses and the oldest first tee in the country.
And if you prefer, stay updated, Omni Homestead Resort has you covered too. There is a private cinema room and a family games room, which are the perfect place for a break. A weekend at the Omni Homestead Resort wouldn't be complete without booking one of the spa services. Try one of the relaxing couples massages or cool off in the hot springs the region is famous for.
You can also book a day history tour to support you. . something brings You will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the resort and the hot springs. And as far as dining goes, you can find everything from fast casual to fine dining here.
7: Bristol
Half Virginia and half Tennessee, Bristol is known as the city literally bisected by the state line. Country music has made this corner of the South famous since the early 20th century, when talent scout and record producer Ralph Peer traveled from New York to Bristol to record the songs and shouts of the region's rolling hills. The most famous recordings of the 1920s were those by A.P. Carter and his family (the Carter family), whose legend and reality still play an important role in Bristol today.
Start with the Cradle of the Country Museum attached to the Smithsonian to delve into the history of music. Stroll along State Street in Bristol, divided by the Virginia and Tennessee state lines, and explore a colorful collection of shops, food stands and restaurants. Stop at gems like Willow Creek Antiques and Cheap Thrills Records and grab dessert at the mid-century Burger Bar, bright and modern Bloom, or Blackbird Baker. At night, enjoy music again at venues like The Paramount, The Cameo Theater or Sidetracks. Take a 35-minute drive to the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia. Part museum, part concert hall and part ballroom, it doesn't get much more rural, local or authentic. Members of the Carter family liven up the night, making their grandchildren sleep on stage and making the audience dance. Stay at the Bristol Hotel or the luxury country inn Nicewonder Farm and Vineyards.
8: Meadows of Dan
Dan, in the heart of the Blue Ridge, Meadows of Dan surprises with its natural beauty in every season. Many know this camp, located just a half hour north of the North Carolina state line, thanks to Primland, a mountaintop settlement spanning 12,00 acres of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Arriving at Primland is like arriving at a large private estate that has existed for generations, even though it was only built in 2009. Explore the outdoors on the many hiking and mountain biking trails or with an afternoon of rifle shooting clay pigeon. The highlight of a trip to the location or region is the Primland Observatory. The state-of-the-art facility offers inspiring views of the night sky and lessons with a local astronomer. While it's difficult to leave Primland while taking in the views and gardens of Blue Ridge, just outside the resort gates you'll find the town of Meadows of Dan with its must-see candy shop, Nancy's Candy Co., its local market and deli. Rural shop for poor farmers.
9: Charlottesville
Charlottesville is one of the best places for travel ideas for a Virginia girl. It's a perfect mix of history, culture and natural beauty.
Begin your tour at historic Monticello, once home to Thomas Jefferson. This beautifully preserved plantation offers tours that provide insight into Jefferson's life and his many contributions to the nation's history.
Just a short drive from Monticello are the Highlands by James Monroe. This is another historic presidential house worth visiting. And the University of Virginia, founded by Jefferson himself, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has an impressive outdoor campus. For enthusiasts, Charlottesville, Virginia is the beginning of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks. There are many hiking trails, beautiful walks and wildlife viewing opportunities. Closer to town, take a walk or bike ride on the Rivanna Trail, a 20-mile urban nature trail.
Charlottesville VA is also known for its dynamic art. scene. The pedestrian area of the city center offers art galleries, theatres, shops and restaurants. Afterward, catch a show at the Paramount Theater or listen to live music at one of the city's many venues!
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Music lovers will fall in love with Charlottesville's theatrical cuisine .From farm-to-table restaurants to food trucks, there's something for everyone. And don't miss the opportunity to visit one of the many wineries in the region. Charlottesville is located in the heart of Virginia's wine country and offers many wine tasting opportunities.
Finally, all avid readers should visit New Dominion Bookshook. It is the oldest independent bookstore in Virginia. It's the perfect place to pick up a new book and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Traveling to Charlottesville is one of the best weekend getaways in Virginia!
10: Front Royal & Shenandoah National Park
Front Royal is known to many as a major gateway to Shenandoah National Park, but it is also a destination in its own right. The city is full of mid-century nostalgia. The main street, motels and roadside attractions date back to the tourist boom of the late 1930s, when Skyline Drive was first extended into the city.
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One of the newest venues, the Catamount Lounge, offers that retro vibe. The Cocktail Lounge is an intimate space with retro decor and classic American cocktails and snacks. It's a good place to spend an afternoon after spending the day hiking in Shenandoah, walking Skyline Drive, or visiting the nearby Luray Caverns. Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge, cozy and rustic accommodations in Shenandoah National Parks, are unbeatable for an overnight stay in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions!
Where do you go on vacation in Virginia?
Virginia Beach definitely has something to offer with its many neighborhoods and beaches .This coastal city offers plenty of relaxation and entertainment options, making it the perfect choice for a romantic getaway or family trip.
How to arrive relaxed for a weekend week? An escape?
Free time is a precious resource: carve out enough time between planned activities to sit quietly and read a book or take a nap. ! Few things are as relaxing as a stress-free nap.
How do weekends make you feel like you're on vacation?
Be creative when planning time
Or, if you're afraid to do everything, plan a time set for household chores on Sunday morning. but reserve the rest of the weekend as a vacation, she says. If you spend the weekend with your children, ask yourself how to celebrate this moment in a special way.
Is it okay to relax on the weekend?
Resting at the weekend gives your body and mind the opportunity to recharge and recover from the stress of the week. This can help you feel more energetic and productive when you return to work on Monday. Rest improves your mood: When you are tired and overwhelmed, you become easily irritable and irritable.
