VIRGINIA - Virginia, brimming with historical sites, stunning scenery, and family-friendly attractions, offers a wealth of potential road trip adventures. Let's dive into routes that showcase what the state has to offer.
Virginia Road Trips: Mountains, Beaches, and History Uncovered
Road Trip #1: Colonial Charm to Coastal Adventures
- Route: Williamsburg - Jamestown - Yorktown - Virginia Beach - Chincoteague Island - Williamsburg
- Distance: Approximately 300 miles
- Duration: 5-7 days
Step back to America's beginnings in Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum where you'll encounter costumed interpreters and historic trade demonstrations. Next, explore the sites of the Historic Triangle – Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America, and Yorktown, where the siege of 1781 led to American victory in the Revolutionary War.
Hit the beach in Virginia Beach! Enjoy the vibrant boardwalk, amusements, and fresh seafood. Venture north to Chincoteague Island National Seashore, where wild ponies roam freely along the sandy beaches and marshes. Observe them respectfully or plan your visit around the annual pony swim and auction.
Road Trip #2: Presidential Homes and Mountain Escapes
- Route: Charlottesville - Monticello - Montpelier - Shenandoah National Park - Luray Caverns - Charlottesville
- Distance: Approximately 200 miles
- Duration: 3-5 days
Delve into the lives of early American presidents with visits to Thomas Jefferson's architectural masterpiece, Monticello, and James Madison's elegant estate, Montpelier. Escape into the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. Hike to waterfalls, catch stunning panoramic views, and watch for black bears.
The spectacular Luray Caverns are adorned with towering stone formations and shimmering pools. Complete your journey in charming Charlottesville with its historic downtown and pedestrian mall.
Road Trip #3: Civil War Trails and Southwest Virginia Adventures
- Route: Richmond – Appomattox Court House National Historical Park – Roanoke – Blue Ridge Parkway – Abingdon – Richmond
- Distance: Approximately 450 miles
- Duration: 5-7 days
Follow the poignant path of the Civil War. Start in Richmond, the former capital of the Confederacy. Pay homage to battlefields and explore influential museums. Continue to Appomattox, the site of General Robert E. Lee's surrender to General Ulysses S. Grant, marking a turning point in the conflict.
Discover Roanoke, a revitalized city in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and enjoy outdoor activities or explore the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Wind your way through the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway with its stunning overlooks. Finish your adventure in historic Abingdon, known for the Barter Theatre and the Virginia Creeper Trail, a popular rails-to-trails path perfect for biking or walking.
Tips for Your Virginia Adventure
- Best Seasons: Spring and fall offer colorful scenery and mild weather. Summer can be hot but perfect for the beach.
- Virginia Specialties: Indulge in Virginia ham, peanuts, fresh oysters, and Brunswick stew, a regional classic.
- Don't Miss: Take a detour to Busch Gardens Williamsburg for family thrills, drive a portion of the Appalachian Trail, or visit Mount Vernon, George Washington's historic home.
Virginia's diverse landscapes and historical sites will ignite your wanderlust and create a memorable family road trip through time. Let the journey unfold!
