Do you find yourself daydreaming of clipping on your pedals, then biking down a quiet two-lane road through relaxing Virginia countryside? Does the ultra-beautiful yet challenging Blue Ridge Parkway call you to pedal its heights? Have you dreamed of bicycling the history-laden Colonial Parkway? Do you want to follow one of the official US bike routes criss-crossing Virginia, stopping to dine at quaint eateries, perusing towns small and large, visiting historic sights? Virginia features a series

Virginia offers an incredible diversity of paddling destinations, from the Atlantic Oceans shores and coves to the Piedmonts rolling rivers and the Appalachian highlands mountain streams. These canoeing and kayaking spots are thoughtfully cataloged into designated water trails and blueways, guiding paddlers to the states premier waterways. Explore these eight premier Virginia water trails and blueways below. Each features detailed overviews, access points, paddling conditions, and 26 recommended

Virginias golf heritage is legendary, but disc golf is surging in popularity across the Commonwealth. This accessible sport merges golfs precision with Frisbees fun, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels at an affordable price. Explore these 21 top courses, from open coastal layouts to rugged mountain terrains with dramatic elevation changes. Greenfield Disc Golf Course—Troutville Alexander Rose Photography LLC This world-class 18-hole course plays to a par 62 and ranks among the top 2

Far from the crowded Eastern Seaboard, Far Southwest Virginia offers stunning mountainous terrain ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Summit Virginias highest peak at Mount Rogers, pedal rugged mountain bike trails or scenic rail trails, ride OHVs along overlooks and streams, backpack remote highland paths, float peaceful rivers and lakes, kayak thrilling whitewater, or camp in picturesque wooded sites. Far Southwest Virginia lies west of I-77, between West Virginia and North Carolina. This arrowhead

Experience WanderLove—Virginias unique take on wanderlust, that irresistible urge to explore. As travel picks up again, a road trip offers a safe, immersive way to discover the Commonwealths stunning diversity, from Atlantic beaches to winding mountain trails. Virginias roads reveal a tapestry of landscapes, habitats, and adventures. Crave ocean kayaking along tidal shores, maritime forest camping, or wildlife refuge hikes? Head east. Prefer summiting peaks for panoramic views, whitewater paddl

This article is the second in a series commemorating the American Evolution – Virginia to America 1619-2019. See article one here. No sci-fi gadget required: Travel through time by walking in the footsteps of Virginias history-makers. These tours span four centuries, from Civil War battlefields and Yorktowns surrender to historic churchyards and the estates of Virginias eight U.S. presidents. Discover five exceptional walking tours that trace Virginias arc—from the birthplace of American democra

Spanning 405 miles overall, Virginias stretch of the Potomac River begins at Harpers Ferry and flows southeast through Northern Virginia into the Chesapeake Bay. This iconic waterway forms a natural border with West Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., but its far more than a map line—its a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From paddling and scenic overlooks to vibrant waterfront destinations, the Potomac offers endless adventures for Northern Virginia residents and visitors alike. Use this

Escape Virginias summer heat with these captivating nighttime outdoor activities. Skip the daytime scorch and immerse yourself in the cool evening air. Discover what makes Virginias outdoors truly magical after dark. Night Skies Festival—Luray Photo Credit: Greg Redfern Hosted in Shenandoah National Parks Big Meadows area, the Night Skies Festival attracts amateur astronomers and stargazers for breathtaking views of Virginias starry heavens. Bring a blanket, chair, and flashlight for unobstruct

Virginias Dan River begins near Meadows of Dan, flowing south through Patrick County in the Blue Ridge Highlands, crossing the Virginia-North Carolina border, and emptying into Kerr Reservoir (Buggs Island Lake). Outdoor enthusiasts in Southern Virginia or the Blue Ridge Highlands will find exceptional opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. Riverside parks offer hiking and biking trails, while nearby restaurants, breweries, wineries, and lodging enhance any trip. This expert

Virginias extensive coastline and shoreline span thousands of miles, providing diverse venues for unforgettable events on sandy beaches or in the water. Chickahominy Riverfront Park, Williamsburg This 140-acre park boasts a 290-foot lighted fishing pier open 24/7, a catch-and-release pond, and a boat ramp for personal watercraft. It hosts numerous fishing tournaments annually, with dedicated spaces at campsites and near the pier. Additional amenities include Virginia Capital Trail access, sand v

Virginia boasts 544 miles of the renowned Appalachian Trail—the most of any state. Each year, countless hikers, from young adventurers to seasoned veterans, embark on this 80-year-old path aspiring to thru-hike its full 2,190 miles, often from Georgia to Maine. The A.T. in Virginia is celebrated for iconic landmarks like the breathtaking sunrise at McAfee Knob, wild ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and Skyline Drive. Its equally beloved by weekend and secti

Nothing captures the magic of fall in Virginia quite like selecting the perfect pumpkin from a local patch, bundling up for a hayride through golden fields, embarking on a scenic drive to admire vibrant foliage, or navigating the twists of a corn maze. Gather your family for these engaging adventures amid towering cornstalks from the summer harvest, then pick a pumpkin to cherish at home. Note: Dates are based on previous seasons; always check each venue’s website for current schedules and avail

Virginias vast woodlands, blue-tinged mountains, and scenic byways burst into fiery autumn hues each fall. With state parks, national forests, and 554 miles of the Appalachian Trail—more than any other state—its a leaf-peepers paradise. Discover these 10 exceptional locations to experience the seasons vibrant colors. Southwest Virginia is an ideal starting point, with mountain towns like Abingdon offering cultural charm and outdoor beauty. Plan your fall getaway at these top spots. Grayson Highl

Experience the vibrant hues of autumn in Virginia by venturing beyond crowded hotspots. From secluded mountain trails in the highlands to serene coastal paddles on the Eastern Shore, discover hidden gems perfect for hiking, camping, paddling, and more. These lesser-known destinations offer authentic outdoor adventures surrounded by stunning fall colors. –SHENANDOAH MOUNTAIN (NOT SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK)– Shenandoah Mountain Adventures Overview: Distinct from Shenandoah National Park, Shenando

In todays fast-paced world, carving out quality family time is essential. An easy family hike offers the perfect opportunity to bond, explore nature, and stay active. Virginia boasts diverse, beginner-friendly trails—from coastal shorelines and waterfalls to panoramic overlooks—ideal for creating lasting memories with kids. Discover simple joys like spotting insects, gathering colorful autumn leaves, or enjoying a picnic under a clear blue sky. These moments build strong family ties. Below, expl

Shenandoah County in Virginias Shenandoah Valley delivers one of the most spectacular fall foliage displays. Boasting 178 miles of trails through lush National Forests, hiking offers the best way to immerse in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, with sweeping views of the Shenandoah River and valley below. Discover our top five hikes for an unforgettable autumn adventure. Buzzard Rock– This relatively easy 4-mile hike rewards with panoramic vistas from Buzzard Rock. East of Fort Valley, i

Discover the joys of Virginias Eastern Shore without breaking the bank. Stroll deserted beaches, witness the iconic Chincoteague Pony Swim, kayak the Seaside Water Trail, stargaze under clear night skies, watch skilled decoy carvers at work, cheer at boat docking competitions, enjoy concerts in a 17th-century church, or hike through pristine maritime forests. Here, the best experiences in life truly are free. THE ARTISAN TRAIL Explore studios, theaters, vineyards, and organic farms along the Ar

Nestled in the stunning wilderness of Southwest Virginia, Breaks Interstate Park is one of Americas best-kept secrets. As one of only two interstate parks in the U.S., it straddles the Virginia-Kentucky border across 4,500 acres of rugged mountain terrain. This dramatic canyon stretches over five miles and plunges more than 1,600 feet deep—the largest east of the Mississippi River, aptly nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the South. Renowned for its rich history, pristine landscapes, and preserved

Gaining perspective means viewing the world from a new angle. Its often subtle, unnoticed until challenges prompt us to rethink routines and beliefs. These shifts can enlighten, inspire, transform lives—or feel daunting. Yet, they reveal true priorities and reignite forgotten appreciations. Discover seven extraordinary experiences across Virginia, curated to uplift, thrill, impress, and challenge. Seeking a viewpoint refresh? These are our top #VAtravel recommendations for 2018.   STEVEN F.

Create lasting memories by exploring these four exceptional destinations across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Build your ultimate travel itinerary with these must-see experiences! —Virginia’s Stunning Beaches— The Destination: “Paddle Your Glass Off Tour” with SouthEast Expeditions, Bayford SouthEast Expeditions provides guided tours that blend the natural beauty of Virginia’s Eastern Shore with immersive educational activities, like harvesting fresh clams for dinner. The popular “Paddle Your G