VirginiaCarmen Willings
itinerantjoy.com April 25, 2025 Virginia is known for its rich colonial history, iconic landmarks like Colonial Williamsburg, and its role in early American history. The state boasts the stunning Appalachian Mountains, Shenandoah National Park, and the Chesapeake Bay. Virginia is also famous for its wines, vibrant arts scene, and being the birthplace of several U.S. presidents. Civil War history is prominent, with numerous battlefields and museums, making it a destination for history enthusiasts.
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National Park
Shenandoah National ParkWebsite: Shenandoah National Park
The park features more than 500 miles of trails, including a 101-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail, and is renowned for its scenic Skyline Drive, that offers over 75 overlooks with panoramic views. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, cascading waterfalls, and quiet wooded hollows, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
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Shenandoah Overlook
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- Skyline Drive – The Skyline Drive runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park and is the only public road through the Park. It takes about three hours to travel the entire length of the Park on a clear day.
- Dark Hollow Falls – The steep descent following a stream to this beautiful waterfall is one of the Park’s most traveled trails. This trail is short, but very steep and rocky. The return climb is challenging!
- Byrd Visitor Center Visiting an exhibit is a great way to learn more about why Shenandoah National Park is such a special place. From the history of the Park to the natural history of its ecosystem, there is plenty to discover through a variety of fun, interactive, and informative displays.
- Limberlost Trail – A walk through the forest with mountain laurel in the springtime and an example of a columnar jointing geological feature. Limberlost is a fully accessible trail
National Scenic Trail
Appalachian TrailWebsite: Appalachian Trail
The Virginia section of the Appalachian Trail spans 550 miles, offering iconic spots like McAfee Knob, Dragon’s Tooth, and Tinker Cliffs. Hikers can explore Grayson Highlands, home to wild ponies, and pass through Shenandoah National Park with its accessible trails. The route also features landmarks like the James River Footbridge and Spy Rock, with Damascus, known as "Trail Town USA," offering a hiker-friendly atmosphere. This stretch combines scenic views, moderate hikes, and cultural experiences.
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Blackrock Summit Spur along Appalachian Trail
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Potomac Heritage National Scenic TrailWebsite: Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
The Virginia portion of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail stretches along the Potomac River, offering scenic views, historical sites, and natural beauty. Highlights include Great Falls Park, Theodore Roosevelt Island, Turkey Run Park, and Scott's Run Nature Preserve. The trail also passes the historic Patowmack Canal, adding a layer of American history to the outdoor experience.
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Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
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National Historical Park
Appomattox Court HouseIn Virginia commemorates the site where, on April 9, 1865, General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant of the Union Army, effectively ending the American Civil War. The reconstructed 1846 Appomattox County Courthouse now serves as the park's visitor center, offering exhibits and a 17-minute introductory film. Visitors can explore a restored 19th-century village, including the McLean House, where the surrender took place.
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Appomattox Court House
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Cumberland Gap National Historical ParkWebsite: Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
The first great gateway to the west. Come follow the path of bison, Native Americans, longhunters, and pioneers. Walk where 300,000 people crossed the Appalachians to settle America. Explore 85 miles of trails and 14,000 acres of wilderness.
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Cumberland Gap
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Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania NMP1013 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Website: Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania NMP In Virginia, it preserves four pivotal Civil War battlefields—Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, the Wilderness, and Spotsylvania Court House—spanning over 8,000 acres. This expansive park offers visitors a chance to explore historic sites such as Chatham Manor, Ellwood Manor, and the "Stonewall" Jackson Death Site, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region's role in the Civil War.
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Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park
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National Monuments & Memorials
Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee MemorialArlington House is the nation’s memorial to Robert E. Lee. It honors him for specific reasons, including his role in promoting peace and reunion after the Civil War.
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Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial
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Booker T. Washington National MonumentPreserves the birthplace of Booker T. Washington, who was born into slavery in 1856 on the 207-acre Burroughs tobacco farm. Established in 1956, the monument offers visitors a glimpse into Washington's early life and the conditions of slavery in mid-19th-century Virginia. The site features reconstructed farm buildings, including the cabin where Washington was born, as well as exhibits, a visitor center, and walking trails that interpret the historical landscape.
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Booker T. Washington National Monument
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Fort Monroe National MonumentOften referred to as "Freedom's Fortress." The site encompasses centuries of American history, notably, in 1619, it was the landing point for the first enslaved Africans in English North America. During the Civil War, Union-held Fort Monroe became a sanctuary for enslaved individuals seeking freedom under the "contraband" policy. Visitors can explore the historic stone fort, the Casemate Museum, and the Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center.
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Fort Monroe National Monument
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George Washington BirthplaceCommemorates the site where George Washington was born on February 22, 1732. The 551-acre park features a Memorial House Museum, constructed in 1931, representing a typical 18th-century tobacco plantation. Visitors can explore the Washington Family Burial Ground, which contains the graves of 32 family members, including his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. The park offers walking trails, a colonial herb and flower garden, and a Colonial Living Farm with period-appropriate livestock and crops.
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George Washington Birthplace
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National Seashore
Assateague IslandWebsite: Assateague Island
The Virginia portion of Assateague Island is home to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area known for its wild Chincoteague ponies, scenic beaches, and rich birdlife. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, biking, hiking, and beach access while exploring dunes, forests, and marshes. This section of the island is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and offers a quieter, more nature-focused experience.
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Assateague Island
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National Historic Site
Colonial National Historical ParkOn May 13, 1607, Jamestown was established as the first permanent English settlement in North America. Three cultures came together – European, Virginia Indian and African–to create a new society that would eventually seek independence from Great Britain. On October 19, 1781, American and French troops defeated the British at Yorktown in the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War.
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Colonial National Historical Park
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- Historic Jamestowne (James City County). Walk in the steps of Captain John Smith and Pocahontas where a successful English colonization of North America began. Despite early struggles to survive, the 1607 settlement evolved into a prosperous colony. As the colony expanded, the Virginia Indians were pushed out of their homeland. In 1619, the arrival of Africans was recorded, marking the origin of slavery in English North America.
- Yorktown Battlefield. Discover what it took for the United States to be independent as you explore the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Here at Yorktown, in the fall of 1781, General George Washington, with allied American and French forces, besieged General Charles Lord Cornwallis’s British army. On October 19, Cornwallis surrendered, effectively ending the war and ensuring independence.
- Great Falls Park – A park showcasing the natural beauty of the Potomac River and its historical significance.
- Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site – The home of an influential African American civil rights leader and bank president.
Parkways
Blue Ridge ParkwayWebsite: Blue Ridge Parkway
The Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for about 215 scenic miles from Rockfish Gap near Shenandoah National Park to the North Carolina border, offering stunning mountain views, historic sites, and abundant hiking opportunities. Highlights include Humpback Rocks, Peaks of Otter, Mabry Mill, and overlooks showcasing the Blue Ridge Mountains. This leisurely driving route also provides access to picnic areas, visitor centers, and cultural exhibits that celebrate Appalachian heritage.
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Blue Ridge Parkway
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George Washington Memorial ParkwayWebsite: George Washington Memorial Parkway
The George Washington Memorial Parkway was designed for recreational driving. It links sites that commemorate important episodes in American history and preserve habitat for local wildlife. The parkway and its associated trails provide a scenic place to play and rest in the busy Washington, DC metropolitan area.
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George Washington Memorial Parkway
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National Battlefield and Military Park
Manassas National Battlefield ParkPreserves the sites of two pivotal Civil War battles: the First and Second Battles of Bull Run (also known as First and Second Manassas). The first battle, fought on July 21, 1861, marked the war's initial major land conflict and shattered hopes for a swift Union victory. The second, from August 28–30, 1862, resulted in a significant Confederate triumph, propelling General Robert E. Lee's army toward the Maryland Campaign.
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Manassas National Battlefield Park
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Petersburg National BattlefieldCommemorates the pivotal 292-day Siege of Petersburg during the American Civil War, from June 1864 to April 1865. This prolonged campaign led to over 70,000 casualties and culminated in the fall of Richmond and General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Court House. Visitors can embark on a 33-mile driving tour encompassing 16 stops across these units, offering a comprehensive view of the battlefield's history.
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Petersburg National Battlefield
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Richmond National Battlefield ParkPreserves 13 Civil War sites across nearly 3,000 acres, encompassing battlefields, fortifications, and historic structures that highlight Richmond's role as the Confederate capital. Key locations include the Tredegar Iron Works, the Confederacy's main industrial complex; Chimborazo Hospital, once one of the largest military hospitals; and battlefields such as Cold Harbor, Gaines' Mill, and Drewry’s Bluff.
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Richmond National Battlefield Park
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National Historic Trail
Captain John Smith ChesapeakeMarks the 1607–1609 voyages of English explorer John Smith through the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The Virginia portion highlights his 1608 exploration route and interactions with Native American communities, offering insight into the landscapes, waterways, and cultures he encountered. Sites like Historic Jamestowne, Werowocomoco, and various state parks help visitors experience the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage by land and water.
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Onancock Marina along Captain ohn Smith Chesapeake NHT
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Overmountain Victory National Historic TrailWebsite: Overmountain Victory NHT
The Virginia segment of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail begins at the Abingdon Muster Grounds, where Patriot militias assembled in 1780 before marching to the pivotal Battle of Kings Mountain. This area features the Keller Interpretive Center, offering exhibits on Revolutionary War history, and the Wolf Creek Trail, a 0.75-mile path along a restored stream. The trail continues through Southwest Virginia, with markers and scenic routes tracing the Patriots' journey toward Tennessee.
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Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
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Star-Spangled Banner National Historic TrailWebsite: Star-Spangled Banner NHT The Virginia portion of the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail highlights the state's involvement in the War of 1812, particularly along the Chesapeake Bay. Sites such as Tangier Island, which served as a British base, and various coastal towns affected by blockades and raids, illustrate Virginia's strategic significance during the conflict. These locations offer insights into the military actions and local experiences that contributed to the events inspiring the U.S. national anthem.
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Tangier Island
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Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic TrailWebsite: Washington-Rochambeau Rev. Route NHT
In Virginia, the Route marks the dramatic conclusion of the 1781 allied march that led to the pivotal Siege of Yorktown. This final stretch of the trail includes key sites such as Williamsburg, where American and French troops prepared for battle, and Yorktown, where their coordinated efforts forced the British surrender—effectively ending the Revolutionary War.
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Yorktown, Virginia
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National Historic Landmark District
Green SpringsNational Historic Landmark District spans over 14,000 acres of fertile agricultural land and features more than 250 original 18th- and 19th-century homes, barns, and outbuildings . Designated as the first rural National Historic Landmark District in 1974, it showcases a continuum of rural vernacular architecture with minimal alteration . The district's landscapes and structures, though privately owned, are viewable from public roads, offering visitors a glimpse into Virginia's rich agricultural and architectural heritage
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Green Springs
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Other Notable Parks
Prince William Forest ParkThe largest protected natural area in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region, encompassing over 15,000 acres of Eastern Piedmont forest. Established in 1936 as the Chopawamsic Recreational Demonstration Area, the park was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration to provide outdoor recreation and employment during the Great Depression.
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Prince William Forest Park
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Historic & Cultural Landmarks
Colonial WilliamsburgA 301-acre living-history museum in Williamsburg, Virginia, meticulously restored to depict life in the 18th century when the city served as the capital of colonial Virginia from 1699 to 1780 . The historic area features hundreds of original and reconstructed buildings, including the Governor’s Palace, Capitol, and Bruton Parish Church . Costumed interpreters bring the colonial era to life by demonstrating historic trades, reenacting political debates, and portraying daily life.
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Colonial Williamsburg
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Mount VernonThe historic plantation and final resting place of the first President of the United States. Situated on the banks of the Potomac River, approximately 15 miles south of Washington, D.C., the estate spans over 500 acres and includes the iconic 18th-century mansion, beautifully restored gardens, and numerous outbuildings that illustrate the daily life of the Washington family and their enslaved workforce.
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Mount Vernon
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The American Revolution Museum200 Water St., Yorktown, VA 23690
Website: The American Revolution Museum A living-history museum that immerses visitors in the story of America's struggle for independence. Located adjacent to the historic Yorktown Battlefield, the museum offers a comprehensive experience through indoor exhibits, films, and outdoor living-history areas. The museum features galleries and films that chronicle the journey from colonial unrest to the formation of a new nation.
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The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
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The National D-Day MemorialA tribute to the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice of Allied forces during the D-Day invasion of June 6, 1944. The memorial is particularly significant as Bedford experienced the highest per capita losses of any American community on that day, with 19 soldiers from the town killed during the invasion. A 44-foot-tall arch representing Operation Overlord, the code name for the D-Day invasion, symbolizing the triumph of the Allied forces.
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The National D-Day Memorial
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Nature & Scenic Locations
Luray CavernsThe largest cavern system in the eastern United States, renowned for its breathtaking underground formations and family-friendly attractions. It was discovered in 1878 by a group of local men who were exploring the area and stumbled upon the vast underground system. The caverns quickly became a popular tourist destination due to their stunning formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and rare mineral formations.
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Luray Caverns
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Natural Bridge State ParkFeatures a remarkable 215-foot-tall limestone arch formed approximately 470 million years ago during the Ordovician period. Over time, water erosion carved out a cave beneath the rock, and as the roof collapsed, the Natural Bridge remained as a stunning natural monument. This geological marvel was once surveyed by George Washington and owned by Thomas Jefferson, who referred to it as “the most Sublime of nature’s works”.
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Natural Bridge State Park
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Historic Homes & Architecture
The Edgar Allan Poe MuseumOffers a comprehensive look into the life and works of the famed American writer. Established in 1922, the museum is housed in the Old Stone House, Richmond's oldest residential building, dating back to circa 1740. Though Poe never resided in this particular building, the museum commemorates his significant ties to Richmond, where he spent much of his life. The museum boasts one of the world's largest collections of Poe's original manuscripts, letters, first editions, personal belongings, and memorabilia.
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The Edgar Allan Poe Museum
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Thomas Jefferson’s MonticelloA UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its architectural innovation and historical significance. Jefferson began designing and building Monticello in 1768, drawing inspiration from classical European architecture, particularly the works of Andrea Palladio. The estate evolved over decades, with major renovations completed around 1809, incorporating features like the iconic dome and extensive gardens
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Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
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Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey HouseDesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1939 and completed in 1941, the Pope-Leighey House is a notable example of Wright’s Usonian vision—affordable, functional homes for middle-class Americans. Originally built in Falls Church, Virginia, for journalist Loren Pope and his wife Charlotte, the 1,200-square-foot L-shaped house features natural materials, radiant floor heating, clerestory windows, and a cantilevered carport. Wright also designed the built-in furniture, emphasizing harmony between interior and exterior spaces.
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Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope
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Dark Sky Places
- James River State Park. Nestled along the historic James River, this park offers wide-open fields and quiet riverbanks perfect for stargazing. Away from city lights, visitors can see stars reflecting off the gentle waters and hear the peaceful sounds of the river at night.
- Natural Bridge State Park. Famous for its towering natural rock arch by day, this park transforms at night into a peaceful place to watch the stars. The dark sky here frames the Milky Way like a stone doorway to the universe.
- Rappahannock County Park. This small, quiet park near the Blue Ridge Mountains is a hidden gem for stargazers. With little light pollution, it offers a close, personal experience with the night sky — from spotting constellations to seeing meteor showers.
- Sky Meadows State Park. Rolling meadows and historic farms set the stage for unforgettable stargazing. True to its name, Sky Meadows opens up a wide, unobstructed view of the sky, where visitors can see countless stars stretch across the horizon.
- Staunton River State Park. Designated as an official International Dark Sky Park, Staunton River is one of the best places on the East Coast for truly dark skies. Here, the Milky Way shines brightly overhead, and special astronomy events welcome visitors to explore the wonders above.
Iconic Virginia Foods
- Apple Butter (especially from the Shenandoah Valley). Thick, spiced apple spread cooked slowly until it becomes rich and smooth.
- Blue Crab & Crab Cakes (Chesapeake Bay). Fresh blue crab is a prized catch along the Chesapeake Bay.
- Brunswick Stew. A slow-cooked stew traditionally made with chicken, tomatoes, lima beans, and corn.
- Chestnuts (historic American Chestnut revival happening in Virginia Appalachia)
- Peach Butter (popular in summer/fall like apple butter)
- Peanut Soup. Creamy and rich, made from Virginia’s famous peanuts.
- Pimento Cheese. Creamy cheese spread made with shredded cheddar, mayo, and pimentos.
- Seasonal Fruits. Strawberries, peaches, and apples grown across the state.
- Shoofly Pie (influenced by nearby Pennsylvania Dutch). A molasses pie with a cake-like topping and gooey base.
- Sorghum syrup (used like molasses; common in mountain cooking)
- Spoonbread Mix (soft cornbread-like dish traditional to Virginia)
- Virginia Country Ham. Salt-cured and aged ham, often sliced paper-thin and intensely flavorful.
- Virginia Peanuts. Especially from the southeastern region near Suffolk—extra large, crunchy, and roasted.
- Virginia Wine & Cider (or Grape Juice for Students). Virginia is known for wines made from Viognier and Norton grapes, plus fresh-pressed ciders.
Sensory Souvenirs
- Apple Butter from the Shenandoah Valley. Slow-cooked spiced apple spread, rich and smooth, a traditional Appalachian favorite.
- Apple Cider Jelly. Sweet and tangy jelly made from fresh-pressed Virginia cider, perfect for toast or biscuits.
- Bark or Wood Shavings from Native Trees. A tactile reminder of Virginia’s forests—oak, hickory, dogwood, and pine.
- Blue Ridge Mountain Pine Cones. Fragrant pine cones collected from the scenic mountain ranges of western Virginia.
- Bluegrass or Mountain Folk Music. The sounds of Appalachian fiddles, banjos, and soulful vocals, carrying the spirit of the mountains.
- Chesapeake Bay Seashell or Sand Sample. A small pouch of soft sand or shells from Virginia’s Atlantic coastline or Chesapeake shores.
- Civil War Bullet Replica, Cannonball, or Battlefield Stone. Replica miniatures or a real (ethically sourced) stone from near Virginia’s many Civil War battlefields.
- Colonial Fife and Drum Recordings. Lively colonial-era music evoking Revolutionary War marches and 18th-century parades.
- Colonial Williamsburg Candle. A beeswax or bayberry candle modeled after 18th-century designs.
- Colonial Williamsburg ginger cakes (packaged versions of the famous spice cookies)
- Colonial-Style Fabric Sample. Reproductions of printed or woven fabrics once worn by colonists—perfect for feeling history in your hands.
- Dried Lavender or Herbs from a Colonial Garden. Aromatic bundles of herbs like lavender, rosemary, or sage, echoing 18th-century kitchen gardens.
- Dried Mountain Laurel or Dogwood (State Flower). Delicate dried blooms from Virginia’s iconic flowering trees.
- Hand-dipped candles (Colonial Williamsburg, traditional craft)
- Hand-Dipped Wax Ornament. A simple wax ornament or figure, echoing colonial holiday traditions.
- Handmade baskets or corn husk dolls (traditional crafts)
- Handmade or Carved Soap. Richly scented artisanal soap, often using traditional techniques and local ingredients like lavender or honey.
- Handmade Pottery from Colonial Williamsburg. Earthenware and stoneware pieces crafted using colonial methods, offering a piece of history.
- Handmade Quilts or Mini Quilt Squares (from mountain or colonial artisans)
- Heritage seeds (heirloom vegetable or flower seeds from historical gardens)
- Iron Forge Items (small colonial-style iron hooks, nails, trivets, from Williamsburg or Shenandoah crafters)
- Miniature Jamestown Glass Piece. Blown glass souvenirs replicating early American glassmaking, a nod to Jamestown’s historic industry.
- Mountain laurel wood carvings (local artisan craft in Appalachians)
- Patchouli or Bay Rum Soap (historically popular colonial-era scents)
- Potomac River water sample (sealed)
- Pressed Fall Leaves. Colorful preserved leaves from Virginia’s famous autumn landscapes, perfect for scrapbooks or displays.
- Pressed Tobacco Leaf (sealed). A smooth, veined leaf representing Virginia’s historic tobacco economy (sealed for preservation and safety).
- Quilting Square or Patchwork Fabric. A swatch of patterned fabric, reflecting the quilting traditions deeply rooted in Virginia’s rural culture.
- Replica Colonial Coins or Revolutionary War paper currency
- Seashells or sand (especially from Assateague or Virginia Beach, sealed)
- Shenandoah River Stones. Smooth stones from the Shenandoah River, carrying the cool, timeless energy of mountain waters.
- Smithfield Ham Seasoning Mix. A spice blend inspired by the famous salt-cured Virginia ham—ideal for seasoning beans, greens, or soups.
- Virginia Peanuts. Jumbo, crunchy peanuts from the southeastern farms around Suffolk, known for their rich flavor.
- Virginia Red Clay Sample. A small, dried piece of Virginia’s iconic red clay, symbolizing the land’s deep agricultural roots.
- Wildflower Seed Packet (Native Species). A small packet of seeds from native flowers like black-eyed Susan, mountain mint, or butterfly weed.
- Wool or Flannel Swatch. A cozy-textured piece representing the practical fabrics favored by Virginians for chilly mountain winters.
- Woven Basket Sample. A piece of handwoven basketry showcasing Appalachian craftsmanship and natural materials like oak and reed.