Virginia has a way of pulling me back. Maybe it’s the blend of Blue Ridge mountain views and breezy coastal towns, or how history and nature seem to dance together at every turn. I’ve road-tripped across the state more than once…hiked Shenandoah trails at sunrise, explored colonial towns that still feel alive, and caught golden hour over the Chesapeake with a crab cake in hand. It’s one of those places that surprises you with how much it has going on.
This Virginia bucket list is a curated collection of experiences I’ve found genuinely exciting, beautiful, and worth your time. From epic drives and mountain overlooks to hidden wineries, Civil War battlefields, and beachy escapes, these 12 attractions show why Virginia is way more than just a stopover. If you’re planning a trip through the South or Mid-Atlantic, don’t sleep on this state.
12 Fun Things to Do in Virginia at a Glance
If you’re planning a trip to Virginia, this quick-hit list will help you map it out based on what kind of experience you’re after. Tap any section to skip ahead.
- Best Coastal Escape: Virginia Beach
- Most Jaw-Dropping Natural Wonder: The Natural Bridge of Virginia
- Top Family Aquarium: Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
- Best Underground Adventure: Luray Caverns
- Must-See Art Museum: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- Best Theme Park for All Ages: Busch Gardens Williamsburg
- Top Living History Experience: Frontier Culture Museum
- Best Scenic Drive: Blue Ridge Parkway
- Most Thrilling Roller Coasters: Kings Dominion
- Best Zoo for Kids and Families: Virginia Zoological Park
- Top Mountain Getaway: Shenandoah Valley
- Best Outdoor Obstacle Course: Go Ape Treetop Adventure
Here’s how I recommend covering Virginia… Spend a few days along the coast in Virginia Beach, road trip through the mountains via the Blue Ridge Parkway, and mix in some culture and thrill at spots like Luray Caverns, Busch Gardens, and the VMFA. Keep reading for all the details and hidden gems!
1. Virginia Beach – Sun, Surf, and Endless Fun
Virginia Beach is a top destination for coastal fun, with 35 miles of shoreline and a lively three-mile boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. The Neptune Statue, towering at 34 feet, is a must-see along the way. The main beach area is great for swimming and boogie boarding, while First Landing State Park offers quieter shores and scenic nature trails. As such, it’s a super popular place for young adults to visit.
For watersports, Rudee Inlet is the place to go, offering jet skiing, parasailing, and deep-sea fishing charters. The Virginia Beach Fishing Pier is a great spot to catch Spanish mackerel or flounder. I grabbed a fresh seafood platter from Waterman’s Surfside Grille—highly recommend their signature Orange Crush cocktail.
Looking to explore Virginia Beach at night? Check out live concerts at 31st Street Park, or take a sunset dolphin-watching cruise along the coast. Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, Virginia Beach delivers the best of both.
2. The Natural Bridge of Virginia
One of Virginia’s oldest landmarks, the Natural Bridge stands 215 feet high and 90 feet wide, carved over thousands of years by Cedar Creek. It was once owned by Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington even surveyed the land in the 1750s.
The Cedar Creek Trail leads visitors under the bridge, continuing past the Lace Falls, a 30-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Nearby, the Monacan Indian Village showcases the lifestyle of Virginia’s native inhabitants with hands-on demonstrations.
For a different perspective, visit at sunset when the bridge is illuminated, creating a striking contrast against the evening sky. The visitor center provides history exhibits and a gift shop with locally made crafts. Seeing the bridge in person felt surreal—its massive stone arch is something photos don’t fully capture. It’s one of Virginia’s must-visit natural wonders for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
3. Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
Home to over 700 species, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a perfect mix of education and adventure. The 80,000-gallon shark tank is a highlight, featuring sand tiger sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The Indonesian Volcanic Island exhibit showcases Komodo dragons, while the touch tanks let visitors interact with stingrays, starfish, and horseshoe crabs.
Outside, the Adventure Park offers a treetop obstacle course and zip lines for thrill-seekers. The aquarium also runs dolphin and whale-watching tours from Rudee Inlet, with the chance to spot humpback whales in winter and bottlenose dolphins in summer.
I took the boat tour in early fall and saw a pod of dolphins playing just a few feet from our boat—it was incredible. Whether exploring exhibits or heading out on the water, this spot is a must for marine life lovers visiting Virginia Beach.
4. Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is the largest cave system in the eastern U.S., featuring enormous stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. The highlight is the Great Stalacpipe Organ, a one-of-a-kind instrument that produces music by tapping on natural rock formations.
The Dream Lake is another must-see…its still waters create a mirror-like reflection of the cavern ceiling, making it look twice as deep. The Giant’s Hall is home to some of the tallest formations, including pillars stretching over 40 feet high. The cavern’s guided tour takes about an hour and is an easy walk for all ages.
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After exploring underground, I checked out the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum next door, which displays antique automobiles dating back to the 1700s. Between its natural beauty and unique attractions, Luray Caverns is one of Virginia’s most unforgettable stops.
5. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Located in Richmond, one of the most livable cities in VA, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) houses a diverse collection spanning 5,000 years of global art. Its Fabergé egg collection is a highlight, along with Renaissance paintings, modern American pieces, and African tribal sculptures.
The museum’s East Asian collection showcases centuries-old Japanese prints and Chinese jade carvings, while the contemporary art wing features works from artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol. The sculpture garden, with its tranquil reflecting pool and modern installations, offers a peaceful spot to relax.
I attended a rotating exhibit on Impressionist paintings, where seeing original works from Monet and Degas up close was a surreal experience. With free admission, regular workshops, and special exhibitions, VMFA is a must-visit for art lovers and casual visitors alike.
6. Busch Gardens Williamsburg – A Rollercoaster of Fun and Adventure
Inspired by European villages, Busch Gardens Williamsburg is more than just a theme park—it’s an immersive experience packed with thrilling rides, cultural performances, and world-class dining. The park is divided into themed sections like Germany, Italy, and France, each with authentic architecture and food.
For adrenaline seekers, Griffon, a 205-foot floorless dive coaster, offers a near-vertical drop, while Apollo’s Chariot delivers high-speed twists and turns. Families can enjoy Escape from Pompeii, a mix of water ride and ancient Roman storytelling, or relax on the Rhine River Cruise.
Beyond the rides, seasonal events like Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Town transform the park with festive décor and themed attractions. I tried the Food & Wine Festival, sampling dishes from Spain, Greece, and France, making the visit as much about flavors as it was about thrills. Busch Gardens is a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and fun.
7. Frontier Culture Museum – Step Back in Time
Located in Staunton, the Frontier Culture Museum is an interactive outdoor museum that brings early American and immigrant history to life. The museum features recreated farms and homesteads from England, Germany, Ireland, West Africa, and early America. Each is staffed with costumed interpreters demonstrating traditional crafts, cooking, and farming techniques.
Visitors can step inside a 17th-century English cottage, watch a blacksmith forge iron tools, or help churn butter at an early American homestead. The West African farm highlights the traditions of enslaved people who contributed to Virginia’s early economy. Seasonal festivals, hands-on workshops, and historical reenactments add even more depth to the experience.
During my visit, I joined a weaving demonstration, learning how settlers made fabric by hand—a skill that required incredible patience and precision. With so many interactive elements, this museum offers a fun and immersive way to experience Virginia’s past.
8. Blue Ridge Parkway: A Scenic Drive Filled with Fun
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles, linking the Great Smoky Mountains to Shenandoah National Park. The drive offers countless overlooks, waterfalls, and hiking trails, making it a top choice for road trippers.
One of the best stops include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 6), where a short hike leads to panoramic mountain views. I also love Peaks of Otter (Milepost 86), a great spot for picnicking by Abbott Lake. In fall, the parkway transforms into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold, drawing photographers from all over. I recommend staying at a scenic lake house or cabin to soak it all in!
I pulled over at Mabry Mill (Milepost 176), a historic gristmill where they still grind cornmeal. The on-site restaurant serves some of the best buckwheat pancakes I’ve ever had. Whether stopping for a scenic view or an outdoor adventure, this drive is an essential Virginia experience.
9. Kings Dominion
Kings Dominion in Doswell is one of Virginia’s biggest theme parks, featuring 60+ rides, a water park, and live entertainment. The park’s most famous coaster, Intimidator 305, reaches speeds of 90 mph and has drops that rival the best in the country.
For a classic wooden coaster experience, Grizzly offers a thrilling ride through the forest, while Dominator boasts the world’s longest floorless coaster track. Families will love Planet Snoopy, packed with kid-friendly attractions, and the Soak City water park, complete with wave pools and lazy rivers.
I caught one of the stunt shows near the International Street entrance…watching BMX riders pull off flips and tricks added an extra thrill to the day. With a mix of high-speed rides, live performances, and water attractions, Kings Dominion guarantees an unforgettable adventure. Nearby, you’ll also find some of the most livable towns in Northern Virginia. It’s truly a stunning part of the state!
10. Virginia Zoological Park – Wild Encounters in Norfolk
The Virginia Zoological Park spans 53 acres and is home to over 500 animals from various continents. The zoo’s exhibits take visitors through diverse habitats where you can see giraffes, lions, and rhinos, and the Asia-Trail of the Tiger, featuring Malayan tigers, orangutans, and red pandas.
A highlight for many is the interactive experiences, like feeding a giraffe or joining a behind-the-scenes animal encounter. Families can hop on the Norfolk Southern Express Train, which winds through the zoo, offering great views of the exhibits.
For kids, the Run Wild Nature Discovery Zone provides a play area with climbing structures and sensory activities. I visited during a zookeeper chat session and learned some fascinating facts about the red wolves – an endangered species the zoo is helping to conserve. With educational programs, special events, and seasonal festivals, this zoo is a fun and engaging stop for animal lovers of all ages.
11. Shenandoah Valley – Nature’s Playground
The Shenandoah Valley, nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, offers outdoor enthusiasts hiking, river adventures, and scenic drives. Shenandoah National Park is home to Skyline Drive, a 105-mile route with 75 overlooks offering breathtaking views of the valley below. The drive itself is a must-see, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Adventure seekers can challenge themselves on Old Rag Mountain, known for its rock scrambles and summit views, or take a relaxing float down the Shenandoah River in a kayak or tube. Fall is the perfect time to visit, with vibrant foliage and charming apple orchards and wineries.
During my visit, I stopped by Luray’s farmers’ market to pick up fresh produce and local honey, where I enjoyed the small-town hospitality. Whether you’re hiking, paddling, or simply enjoying the scenery, the Shenandoah Valley is a great escape.
12. Go Ape Treetop Adventure: Swing, Climb, and Soar
For high-flying fun, Go Ape in Williamsburg offers an aerial ropes course with zip lines, Tarzan swings, and wobbly bridges set high among the trees. The course includes five sections, each increasing in height and difficulty, making it perfect for climbers of all levels. From up there, you’ll get to enjoy some of the nicest views in Virginia.
The longest zip line is over 600 feet long, soaring above the forest floor with stunning views. If you’re looking for a family-friendly option, the Treetop Journey course features shorter and easier obstacles, making it perfect for beginners.
I tackled the Tarzan swing, leaping off a platform into a cargo net…it was such a rush! With adrenaline-pumping obstacles and beautiful woodland scenery, Go Ape provides a fun and challenging day in the great outdoors, perfect for those looking to test their limits. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a first-timer, you’ll have an unforgettable experience at this hidden gem in Virginia.
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