Popular events like cuddling baby goats at Caromont Farm in Albemarle often sell out quickly, but Virginia boasts a wealth of interactive farm tours. These family-friendly destinations offer close-up animal encounters, insights into sustainable farming practices, and immersive experiences in the great outdoors. Explore working farms across the state to connect with nature and discover Virginias rich agricultural heritage. Smith Mountain Lake Farm—Hardy Smith Mountain Lake Farm offers engaging 90

Love paddleboarding on scenic waterways or relaxing by a rushing river? Virginias river festivals offer thrilling activities and serene gatherings for all ages. Whether youre an adventure seeker or prefer family outings amid stunning waterways, these annual events deliver excitement and natural beauty.   Dominion Riverrock—Richmond Held annually in mid-May (e.g., May 17-19) Americas largest outdoor sports and music festival takes place at Browns Island along the James River. Enjoy kayakin

Imagine a star-filled sky overhead and the gentle chirp of crickets at night—camping in Virginia offers an unparalleled connection to nature. From rugged primitive sites teaching survival skills to luxurious escapes fostering lasting memories, these destinations suit every adventurer. Whether seeking spots near Virginia wineries, quick city getaways, or pet-inclusive weekends, discover scenic campsites in the states most captivating areas. OUTDOOR RECREATION & PRIMITIVE CAMPING False Cape Stat

Virginias recent stretches of beautiful weather have us inspired to maximize every moment before springs unpredictable patterns return. Avoid wasting these mild days indoors—dive into outdoor adventures with our curated list of 17 favorite warm-weather activities across the Commonwealth. 1. Camp in the Great Outdoors Experience Virginias scenic campgrounds or primitive backcountry sites like those in Shenandoah National Park. Hang a hammock, savor springs natural symphony and vistas, and cap y

Virginias musical legacy spans country, blues, and contemporary stars like the Dave Matthews Band, shaping Americas soundscape. Relive 2020s vibrant live music scene with these 16 standout festivals, showcasing diverse genres and emerging talent.Something in the Water—Virginia BeachApril 20-26, 2020Launched in 2019 by Virginia native Pharrell Williams, this beachfront festival featured A$AP Rocky, Banks, Beck, Chance the Rapper, Foo Fighters, Post Malone, and Leon Bridges. Complementing the musi

Virginias parks inspire awe across the country, and Shenandoah National Park stands out as a gem. Stretching just over 100 miles along a narrow strip of wilderness, it boasts rich wildlife, stunning nature, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Inside the park, enjoy hiking trails, biking sections of Skyline Drive, and exploring its winding waterways. But the excitement extends beyond its four entrances, with nearby towns offering exceptional dining, lodging, and attractions. Virginia Visitor Cen

Virginia claims a full quarter of the renowned 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail (AT), delivering about 550 miles of premier hiking opportunities. The AT in Virginia showcases trails to stunning overlooks, waterfalls, and wild landscapes, alongside scenic, cultural, and historical landmarks—including a vibrant trail town. As the AT winds through Virginias Appalachian Mountains, it traverses breathtaking terrain where towering peaks rise thousands of feet above lush valleys, cascading waterfalls tumbl

As summer heat intensifies across Virginia, early morning hikes offer the perfect way to beat the crowds and temperatures while witnessing stunning sunrises. Explore these premier trails throughout the Commonwealth for unforgettable dawn views and invigorating starts to your day. McAfee Knob Photo Credit: Sam Dean, IG account: @sdeanphotos Renowned as the most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail, McAfee Knob features a dramatic overhanging ledge with panoramic vistas of Catawba Valley, Ro

Dining by the water offers an unmatched sense of tranquility, whether overlooking a river, lake, bay, or ocean. Virginia boasts dozens of exceptional waterfront restaurants, where delicious meals pair perfectly with stunning vistas. Selecting just 15 standout spots was challenging, but these venues deliver top-tier cuisine and unforgettable scenery. The Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery—Cape Charles Every seat at The Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery provides prime views of the Chesapeake Bay. Executive Che

Virginia boasts hundreds of trails leading to breathtaking views, waterfalls, and rewarding vistas that make every step worthwhile. While popular paths offer enchantment at the right time, crowds on sunny days can diminish the sense of discovery. Weve curated 10 lesser-known hikes that deliver thrills, solitude, and unforgettable payoffs across the state. Lace up your boots and explore these hidden gems today. Washington Ditch Trail, Great Dismal Swamp—Suffolk Total Distance: 9 miles (4.5 mile

Virginia boasts an abundance of paddling opportunities—from slow-moving blackwater streams flowing into the Atlantic coastal plain, tidal waters along the ocean, Piedmont rivers through the states heart, to crystalline mountain streams in the highlands. Floating Virginias rivers and lakes offers families a serene way to immerse in stunning surroundings, gliding over waters that provide a refreshing escape from everyday life. photo credit: Bill Crabtree, Jr. Family floating in Virginia ranges fro

The Appalachian Trail spans over 550 miles through Virginias stunning mountains, weaving through diverse public lands like George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Shenandoah National Park, and Blue Ridge Parkway areas. As the backbone of an expansive trail network covering thousands of miles, it unlocks endless backpacking opportunities in the Old Dominion. Leveraging the AT and its connectors, these curated 2-3 day adventures deliver immersive experiences: vast woodlands, pristine wil

If you and your partner love the great outdoors, these eight romantic campsites in Virginia offer the perfect blend of quality time together and stunning natural beauty. Explore Virginias diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains, for an unforgettable couples retreat. Chincoteague Island KOA—Chincoteague What Makes it Romantic: Lighthouse views and wild ponies Assateague Island boasts some of Virginias most pristine, undeveloped beaches. While camping isnt allowed directly on the island, Ch

Virginias national parks boast some of Americas most renowned scenic roadways: the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. These picturesque routes, managed as national parks, offer stunning vistas perfect for fall foliage viewing, crisp winter panoramas, spring blooms, or summer escapes. Discover another hidden gem for breathtaking drives—read on! Key Highlights Along Skyline Drive Photo Credit: Cameron Davidson Skyline Drive serves as the 105-mile spine of Shenandoah National Park, winding atop

Virginia is renowned for iconic outdoor destinations like the Appalachian Trail, Great Falls of the Potomac, and the James River. Yet, the commonwealth harbors many lesser-known natural treasures that offer equally breathtaking experiences with fewer crowds. Explore these under-the-radar spots and find your perfect Virginia outdoor escape. White Rocks Overlook Nearest Town: Ewing Best Times to Visit: Clear skies for optimal views What You Need to Know: South-facing trail can be hot in summer GP

The end of summer would be sad if it weren’t for the arrival of autumn in Virginia. It is that time of year when the green forests of the Appalachians, Piedmont and Coastal Plain turn to vibrant reds, glowing yellows, fiery oranges and deep maroons, all contrasting against a crystalline blue sky. It is time to get out and see fall’s kaleidoscope of color, to smell the drying leaves and take in that crisp air. It is time to go on a fall foliage hike in Virginia. Fall color chasers want cer

Experience the ultimate pairing: invigorating hikes through Virginias stunning landscapes followed by tastings at renowned wineries. Beyond the vines and rolling hills, Virginias outdoors amplify the sensory joy of wine country. Explore vineyard grounds, cobblestone paths, and countryside vistas, then quench your thirst with expert-led tastings. Enhance your winery visit with a nearby hike to waterfalls, overlooks, or historic sites. These 10 curated pairings showcase Virginias natural beauty an

Whether youre seeking romance, a girls getaway, or a family adventure, Virginia offers perfect 48-hour fall escapes. From vibrant foliage to exciting activities statewide, craft unforgettable autumn memories. Carve out a weekend or a couple of days off for these curated trips. Northern Virginia Wine Country Loudoun County boasts 40 world-class wineries, a top destination for D.C. locals and visitors exploring Virginias wine country. Follow our full Touring & Tasting D.C.s Wine Country it

For avid outdoor enthusiasts, fall is the ultimate season for camping in Virginia. As the first cool fronts sweep across the Allegheny Mountains, delivering crisp autumn air, tent and RV campers envision crackling campfires nestled deep in the woods, high in the mountains, along serene lakeshores, or beside the coast—immersed in the Old Dominions stunning landscapes. Virginias extended autumn season maximizes camping opportunities. Foliage peaks in the western Appalachians by early October, p

Virginia is home to five American Byways, a U.S. Department of Transportation national scenic byways designation. Travelers on these winding and curvy drives will experience breathtaking vistas of natural beauty with distinct and diverse historic and cultural qualities. Read on to learn about Virginia’s national scenic treasures! –BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY– Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway meanders from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mo