“Williamsburg, VA, USA – December 29, 2011: Red-coated fife and drum corps take part in the Illumination of the Taverns parade in Colonial Williamsburg. The Grand Illumination takes place on the first Sunday in December.”
Brimming with history, culture, and natural wonders, Virginia is every traveler’s dream. Here are six of the Commonwealth’s best attractions, destinations, and experiences that you simply must check out:
- Colonial Williamsburg
- The Virginia Wine Trails
- Virginia Beach
- The Homes of the Nation’s First Leaders
- The Natural Bridge of Virginia
- Shenandoah National Park
Virginia boasts a showcase of some of America’s most historic attractions. Among them, Colonial Williamsburg stands out as the definitive destination and experience.
The historic district is the Commonwealth’s best-known tourist attraction, a 301-acre “living history” museum where guests can marvel at an array of preserved and reconstructed buildings dating as far back as the 17th century, enjoy exhibits and demonstrations of historic arts and crafts, and listen to fascinating stories about Colonial America.
With a roster of almost 300 wineries across the Commonwealth and over 400 years of history behind it, Virginia’s wine tradition is a local experience that must not be missed.
Wine trails offer some of the most memorable ways to sample the signature flavors of the Commonwealth – with breathtaking views of sprawling vineyards and verdant landscapes highlighting the event. Some of the top rated trails include the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, Monticello Wine Trail, Loudoun’s DC Wine Country, and Shenandoah Valley Trail.
The sparkling, golden Atlantic coast. All-ages fun and attractions. The freshest and most flavorful seafood. Cozy and affordable hotels and accommodations. Find all these and more at the biggest city and the best-known beach in the Commonwealth – Virginia Beach.
Virginia Beach is not just any typical coastal destination, it’s also home to some of the most unforgettable experiences you can have at a beachfront location – a vibrant live music scene, a growing craft beer industry, and a variety of events and festivals that make it worth visiting no matter the season.
Virginia is nicknamed the “Mother of Presidents” for good reason. Eight presidents – including four of the first five – were born here. Their historic homes are open for visits, providing a unique way to learn about and gain a deeper appreciation for the lives of men who shaped a nation.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estates are among the most visited presidential homes in Virginia.
One of America’s oldest tourist attractions and certainly one of the most astonishing natural sights anywhere in the country, the Natural Bridge rises 215 feet high and stretches 90 feet across. Carved out of a limestone mountain by Rockbridge County’s Cedar Creek, the geological formation resembles something straight out of a fantasy story.
In addition to the bridge itself, there are nearby attractions such as the Natural Bridge Caverns, which provides access to cave systems 34 stories underground, and the Natural Bridge Zoo, which is commended for its conservation and endangered species breeding work.
For incomparable views of Virginia’s gorgeous natural landscapes, Shenandoah National Park is the place to find the best vantage points. Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, the park overlooks the verdant Shenandoah Valley, winding Shenandoah River, and all the thriving wilderness areas in between them.
The park has over 500 miles of hiking trails, with camping and lodging sites and restaurants spread out across the area to accommodate visitors. It can also be explored with a slow and steady drive along scenic Skyline Drive, which features 75 designated stops showcasing the park’s best views.
With so many local highlights, living in Virginia is a day-to-day adventure. Find out how you can find excellent homes in the Commonwealth by contacting Shaheen, Ruth, Martin & Fonville Real Estate (SRMFRE)
