Virginia is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. With so many amazing places to choose from, it can be hard to know where to go. To help make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in Virginia based on traveler ratings and reviews. So whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway spot or an adventure playground, there’s something for everyone in this metropolis!
The Best Place to Visit in Virginia
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
- Address: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.5 (32715)
- Phone: +1 757-229-4386
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: ClosedTuesday: ClosedWednesday: ClosedThursday: ClosedFriday: 3:00 – 8:00 PMSaturday: 12:00 – 6:00 PMSunday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
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Top 12 Tourist Attractions in Virginia
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
- Address: 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.9 (20643)
- Phone: +1 703-572-4118
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PMTuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PMWednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PMThursday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PMFriday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PMSaturday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Reviews:
I visited on a Monday afternoon and spent two to three hours enjoying immensely the collection of aircraft in this museum. Admission is free, leaving only the $15 parking fee to pay. The Smithsonian does a great job keeping the place clean and getting people through security in a more than reasonable time. I also viewed my first IMAX film here and found the seating and experience overall to be worth the price of admission.
The museum itself has a wide assortment of commercial and military aircraft to view from a short distance. The placards serve their educational purpose by providing historical context for the time periods in which the aircraft flew and their purpose along with a special fact or two. I was surprised to see examples of enemy aircraft also on display along with stories about how the museum came to own these artifacts of past wars. The Space Shuttle Discovery of course is a well known and deservedly highly visited centerpiece of the museum. The size of the Shuttle is rather awesome up close and lends to photo opportunities from multiple vantage points.
A great place for children and adults to see and learn some aeronautical history to be sure. I could return next year for a refresher on all the exhibits and maybe take a closer look at some of the more subtle supplementary exhibits I did not see this time.
By Michael Gracey (5 months ago)There are so many incredible things to see here but the thing that steals the show is the space shuttle. Spent about 2 hours walking around each floor, getting a good up close view of everything, reading each description, and taking pictures. The fact that this is free is so cool. If you are hungry there is even a shake shack! Good on the museum for having quality food here. Before you leave make sure to stop by the observation tower to get a good look of the surrounding areas and see airplanes take off and land.By Sleepy Puppy Crypto (3 months ago)Loved it! Just spent several hours there and I felt like a kid in a candy store. Such an abundance of incredible aviation and space machinery from the beginning of modern flight. I’d have a hard time choosing a favorite exhibit but was thrilled to see both the SR-71 Blackbird and Space Shuttle Discovery up close and in the flesh. Please visit, you won’t regret it.By Dennis Peery (4 months ago)Wow amazingly big and nice air museum. If you love airplane or study for pilot or you have interest jn aviation, I recommend you go there. If you are not interested in aviation, you will still love it there. Same to me. It’s worth my time and you too.It’s perfect for single, couple or families with or without kids. Much fun there.
Free to entry but the parking fee is $10 or less than $15. They have souvenirs..
By Kehinde Ogunbayo (9 months ago)This has to be one of the best things to do during a layover at any airport in the world – as well as being a fantastic day out in its own right. You can catch the 981/983 bus service from right outside Dulles to the museum. It’s $2 each way – and you need cash. No debit cards. Service runs every 20 mins. The museum is free (though if you drive it’s $15 parking) and you could easily spend 3+ hours there. From Concorde to an F35, the Discovery Space Shuttle and the alien-like SR71 Blackbird. This museum is a must for any aviation or space geek. It is a world class collection.By Ben Matthews (9 months ago)
Luray Caverns
- Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (18236)
- Phone: +1 540-743-6551
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMTuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMWednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMFriday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMSaturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMSunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Reviews:
I heard from someone working at the front royal visitor’s center that Luray caverns was the best in the area. It was a good 45 minute drive but it definitely did not disappoint! It was beautiful!!
We went on a Monday evening and it was empty. They took our photos at the entrance and ended up being really cute souvenirs.
The caverns themselves were really big. We took our time and read through all 19 stops on the tour (they had self guided tours with a brochure) I liked that we were able to go at our own pace and be able to take photos/ videos without other people photo bombing. There were pretty little lakes and huge formations. Great trip!
By Laura Saatsoglou (3 months ago)This cavern is truly one of the.most spectacular natural wonders I have seen in my life. The history of how this cave was found by accident about 150 years ago is amazing. The tour of the cavern was well planned and thought out and responsibly preserved. The tour takes about an hour to walk and a very good camera is highly recommended.
I suggest visiting during the off peak season so that you feel rushed through the cave.
There is a small Cafe, a gift shop and a few other shops.
I highly recommend this park to those who enjoy nature and for those who want to experience a once in a lifetime thrill.
Pictures do not do this cave justice.
It must seen in person to appreciate the beauty and amazement of this place.By Jaime Brownell (8 months ago)Visited on a Thursday afternoon and it was decently crowded. My family of 3 was able to walk through the caverns in about an hour and it was spectacular. It is self-guided but you can pay for a guided tour. You are given a pamphlet with information as you walk through the caverns. Although it is definitely a tourist-y spot, I highly recommend checking this incredible place out as it is one of the great wonders of the east coast!By Brianna Ridenour (9 months ago)Went at the end of our spring break and it was really fun! It’s about 60-90 min to walk all the way through, depending on how long you stop for photos or listen to the organ. Many amazing sights and some parts of the caves are 7 million years old! Very interesting history and would recommend grabbing info pamphlet before you go through so you can follow along what each item is (they’re numbered). Tickets also include free admission to the toy museum and train/car museum next door. Really neat to see more historic items.By Lydia Kennedy (8 months ago)Such a beautiful place!! They give you an informational pamphlet before you walk in and it let’s you know that there’s numbered markers along the way that coincidence with what you’re supposed to read. It’s not only beautiful, but you get to learn some cool facts about the caverns too! I also loved the lighting, it definitely makes you want to stop and take pictures when you get to each marker. My family and I had a wonderful time.By Gabby F. (6 months ago)
Shenandoah National Park
- Address: Virginia, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (14463)
- Phone: +1 540-999-3500
- Website: Link
- Reviews:
Incredibly beautiful. Not too crowded. Tons of scenic overlooks on the gorgeous skyline drive. Visitor centers are well equipped with clean restrooms, snacks, and dining options (inside & outside) all with stunning views! They also have gift shops. The park was lovely. We wanted to see a bear but settled for some deer, lots of birds, butterflies, and caterpillars.By Jaime Chanter (7 months ago)This is the first National Park I’ve been able to see with my own eyes. The views are breathtakingly beautiful. There are plenty of scenic viewing areas on the way up so that you can stop and take pictures or eat lunch. They also have picnic areas if you want to enjoy your lunch and let the children run around. There are tons of trails to explore on foot or horseback. Oh, did I mention the breathtaking views. This is a bucket list must see.By Sharon Dest (7 months ago)Our family had the best time here. The views are unbelievable. We stayed at a local resort but next time we will definitely stay in the park. You can just drive through and still see so much if you accessibility issues. However, most of the hikes are at least moderate with steep climbs.By Rebecca Ash (5 months ago)I LOVE Shenandoah national park so much! I could talk about how great it is for days. In my opinion, it’s one of the best national parks I’ve ever been to. Hiking through this park is a joy, and the views are stunning. Even just taking a drive through the park is a stunning adventure. The dramatic views that surround the park are a delight to be around. The viewpoints are beautiful and as a photographer, I really do love this place a lot. Below are some photos I took while I was in the park. I definitely do recommend stopping at the visitor’s centers throughout the park.By Grey Cat (a month ago)We drove up and down the north side of Shenandoah national Park skyline drive, it was amazing. We went to the top where the lodge was and actually did a 2/10 of a mile hike up a hill to a rock face area lookout for some incredible pictures. It’s best to see this all in person. You’ll want to take pictures also to trigger memories but seeing the views in person can’t be captured by just a camera.By Michael Del Prete (4 months ago)
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
- Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mt Vernon, VA 22121, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (12855)
- Phone: +1 703-780-2000
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMTuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMWednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMFriday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMSaturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMSunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Reviews:
We visited George Washington’s Mansion last weekend at Mount Vernon, VA. We had a great time. It’s a must see and good for all ages. The mansion and location itself is well preserved and maintained. I love how the tour guides are knowledgeable about the historic place, they are friendly too and answers your questions well.
Don’t forget to stop by the museum too, they have a lot of interesting historic items that they use back in the days. And good information about The Washington.
If ever you got hungry, they have a restaurant right before the entrance that you can also try, or the food court upon exiting the museum.
They also have a souvenir shop upon exiting the museum. Overall, We had a great experience.
By JoJo Q (8 months ago)It was a great place to visit. As you walk around the grounds there are plenty of people who will share information about the place. We did the house tour with is $2 more per person and it was awesome. So much history and loads of walking. Easy to do with a stroller. We used the free shuttle to take us from the river back up to the house!By Janie Bowerbank (6 months ago)Rainy day in December was well spent here. The visitor center and museum along with the mansion tour were great for indoors, and the gardens were still beautiful. We strolled through the landscape and found one of the trees Washington planted, as described in the book ‘Founding Gardeners’, one of my inspirations for coming here. Holiday decorations made it even more beautiful and enjoyed a lunch in the Inn. We drove back along George Washington Parkway, which starts here and ends in DC, a lovely drive. Highly recommend!By Heidi Bohan (a month ago)Incredible! If you can go, Go! Great for all ages. We took a family of 4, ages 10-40 and everyone enjoyed it. History and information galore that you didn’t know you wanted to know, but you absolutely do!
We went on George Washington’s Birthday celebration which provided so much entertainment. The museum and 4D movie is a must! The mansion tour is worth the time. I’m not sure if Washington himself is there all the time, but meeting him on the estate was a fun surprise.By Mark Wells (11 months ago)This was a very amazing experience. They tell the full story about George Washington from his importance to our country, his selflessness, and his love of hard work and dedication. The grounds are beautifully kept and the tour of the mansion was filled with great information. Can’t recommend it highly enough.By David A. (3 months ago)
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- Address: 717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.4 (12480)
Monticello
- Address: 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (8125)
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- Address: 200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (7620)
Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center
- Address: 101 Visitor Center Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (7246)
Yorktown Battlefield
- Address: 1000 Colonial Nat’l Historical Pkwy, Yorktown, VA 23690, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (7120)
Maymont
- Address: 1700 Hampton St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (6912)
First Landing State Park
- Address: 2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (5766)
Natural Bridge State Park
- Address: 6477 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (5274)
Virginia is a world-famous tourist destination, and it’s no wonder why. Here is our list of the top 12 best place to visit in Virginia – based on expert opinions and customer reviews. Did your favorite spot make the cut? Let us know in the comments above!
I used to work in Busch Gardens Williamsburg for 5 months, and I had a chance to ride every single roller coaster again and again 🙂
Best time is to come at opening and you start with every country to explore the entire park. Spend the entire day if you want to have the most fun and experience the park. Buy yourself the express pass, because the lines are long long long. Save money on food or gifts if you, need to… but buy the pass.
I have been here few to visit the park after, because it is definitely the best amusement park in the US. I also visited the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay which very fun, but this park is better.
They were having there St. Patrick Day celebration and all the rides were not opened, but had fun, if going all day during the summer to ride all the rides opening till closing would recommend to get the food pass for $30 more but you get a full meal every 90 minutes. Enjoyed everything even the dinner theater show while eating. Hope to come back soon!!
The rides and animals made for a amazing day… buy tickets in advance they have dynamic pricing and raise the price from 69 to 89 dollars for a same day purchase. You will save at least 20 dollars per ticket by purchasing the day prior to coming to park. It was a absolutely a blast I would recommend it definitely and bring plenty of water… hours of walking… go for it you will not regret…
This was such a fun park. The roller-coasters are awesome and I love the way they have areas set up like other countries. There’s so much to do here. There’s an area to see and even pet animals. We went here twice during our vacation. I would definitely recommend and I would go again if I vacation here again.
This park was beautiful!! The rides have a nice array of thrill to chill that I love the variety. The food here was amazing! I recommend you get the all day meal plan , it is so worth the money! The shows we saw were top notch! The themes for the countries seemed very authentic and custom to the region you were in. If you are going to watch the fireworks we recommend using the bridge for the best view. But while everyone is watching those the ride lines open up a bit. The only issue we incurred while there was that they didn’t have many shirts in large size, because they had sold out. I would definitely come back and bring my family!!