Virginia, nicknamed, ‘the Old Dominion’, is a cosmopolitan tourist destination in the US. It is surrounded by popular attractions in all directions—the Atlantic Ocean in the east, Kentucky in the west, Maryland in the north and North Carolina in the south. Because of its vastness, it has been divided into five regions—Eastern Virginia, Northern Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, Southwest Virginia and Central Virginia. It has a humid subtropical climate and abounds with beaches, forests, prairies and many other natural features. It has a rich culture and heritage as it is home to birthplaces of the first five presidents of the US. Various types of vacation home rentals in Virginia—villas, cottages, condos, cabins, chalets and apartments—are available for the accommodations of tourists at very affordable prices.
Why Visit Virginia?
First, tourists can visit this destination year-round as its every season is beautiful. In terms of recreational activities, it enables them to go on a romantic retreat, eat at world-class restaurants with friends or family, indulge in a shopping spree at outlets and malls and peep into iconic nature and history.
Things to Visit in Virginia
Virginia boasts many attractions that have made it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations not only in the US but also the world over. Nevertheless, must-visit attractions for passionate tourists include the following:
Natural Bridge of Virginia: With a height of over 215 feet, this bridge is one of the oldest attractions of the US. It is known to have been formed by the collapse of a terrific cavern. It has many historical myths related to European visitors and George Washington. In 2014, it acquired the status of the state park. Here, tourists can enjoy strolling and stay in tune with nature. Also, they can have glimpses of endangered species of animals, which find shelter here.
Arlington National Cemetery: Encompassing 600 acres of land in Washington D.C. It is known to have been built by George Washington Parke Custis in the early 1800s. It is a huge graveyard, where distinguished personalities— President John F. Kennedy and many soldiers—are buried. Kennedy's gravelooks the most impressive with a slate headstone that has inscriptions of his inaugural address he gave in 1960.
Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive: Located in the heart of Virginia, this park borders the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Skyline Drive lies along the length of the park with many stopping points. Through it, tourists can view many interesting sites including the old Cave Cemetery and President Hoover's summer residence. The main attractions of this park are hiking trails, shrubs and flowering trees. October is the best time to visit it when it blooms to the fullest.
Monticello and Charlottesville: Regarded as the best houses in the US, this is a Palladian-style mansion. It is said to have been built by Thomas Jefferson. Later, he went on renovating it for four decades. Inside it, tourists can see Jefferson's inventions, Jefferson's grave, Mulberry Row, an introductory film and many other items. In its rear side, they can see historic gardens and many other natural features.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: As one of the best family-oriented attractions in Virginia Beach, it has a large array of exhibits and enables tourists to indulge many exciting and pleasurable activities. Inside it, tourists can have glimpses of Green Sea Turtles, Loggerhead Sea Turtles, Komodo dragons, tomistoma, sandbar sharks, otters and harbor seals. It has a six-story theater that shows 3-D nature films every day.
Beaches near Virginia
Beaches are the best places for tourists to stay away from the everyday bump and grind in Virginia. The most noted beaches, where they should spend their time to cool off include the following:
Cape Charles Beach: Located on the Eastern Shore, this beach is one of the best beaches in Virginia. It has shallow and calm water which enable even kids to enjoy various water sports activities. Grown-ups can enjoy kayaking, rafting, canoeing, etc. Outfitters are available for the convenience of tourists.
Colonial Beach: Lying between Potomac River and Monroe Bay, this beach is very charming and has historical significance. The activities tourists can indulge in here are swimming, boating and fishing. It is also a pet-friendly destination. Those, who are pet lovers, will find this beach every enjoyable.
Sandbridge Beach: With a 4.5-mile stretch of shoreline, this beach is less crowded in comparison to other beaches in Virginia. But, it provides a very peaceful and tranquil experience to tourists. It has sun dunes and enables tourists to see amazing sunsets and impressive Atlantic Ocean waves.
Buckroe Beach: Located in Coastal Virginia, this beach has one-mile coastline with impressive views of the Chesapeake Bay. It has a low crowd level. Lifeguards are deployed for the safety of tourists. It is a perfect place for watching ocean wildlife, spectacular sunsets and ships arriving at the port. It has parking, bistros and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit Virginia
In terms of weather, safety and tourism, there are two best times to visit Virginia—from April 9th to June 17th and from September 3rd to October 28th. During these times, the weather remains moderate and there is the least chance for rainfall and snowfall.
How to Visit Virginia?
Both national and international tourists can easily access Virginia. The chief airports located here are Lynchburg Regional Airport, Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport, Norfolk International Airport and Richmond International Airport. The local means of transportation include buses, cars, trains and trams.
Vacation Home Rentals in Virginia
Find American Rentals, one of the best Virginia vacation rentals by owner, offers no-booking-fee vacation rentals to tourists at very affordable prices. It provides its vacation rental services around the clock on a prompt basis. So, tourists can contact it at their convenience to book their accommodations.
