Virginia, known as the “Mother of Presidents” and the “Old Dominion,” offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors and residents alike. From its stunning natural landscapes to its deep-rooted history, the state provides countless opportunities for adventure, learning, and relaxation. This comprehensive bucket list highlights 85 amazing things to do in Virginia, ensuring you make the most of your time in this diverse and beautiful state.

Virginia’s natural wonders beckon outdoor enthusiasts. The Appalachian Trail winds through the state, offering hikers breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain. Luray Caverns invites visitors to explore its underground wonders, including the Great Stalacpipe Organ. For a truly unforgettable experience, witness the wild ponies of Chincoteague Island or stargaze at the Dark Sky Park in Staunton River State Park.

History buffs will find themselves spoiled for choice in Virginia. The state played a crucial role in America’s founding and the Civil War, and its many historical sites and museums tell these stories in vivid detail.

Tour Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s architectural masterpiece and home, or walk the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery. Colonial Williamsburg offers an immersive journey back to 18th-century America.

Natural Wonders And Outdoor Adventures

Hike the Appalachian Trail
Explore Shenandoah National Park
Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway
Visit Natural Bridge State Park
Go spelunking in Luray Caverns
Kayak through the Great Dismal Swamp
Stargaze at Dark Sky Park in Staunton River State Park

Witness the wild ponies at Chincoteague Island
Hike to McAfee Knob for breathtaking views
Raft the rapids of the James River
Ski or snowboard at Wintergreen Resort
Camp in the George Washington National Forest
Explore the dunes at First Landing State Park
Go rock climbing at Old Rag Mountain
Birdwatch at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Historical Sites And Museums

Tour Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Explore Colonial Williamsburg
Walk the battlefields of Gettysburg
Discover the American Civil War Museum in Richmond
Step back in time at Jamestown Settlement
Tour the USS Wisconsin battleship in Norfolk
Visit the National Museum of the Marine Corps
Explore the Edgar Allan Poe Museum in Richmond
Learn about aviation history at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Tour the Virginia State Capitol building
Visit Arlington National Cemetery
Explore the historic campus of the University of Virginia
Discover the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton
Tour the homes of James Madison and James Monroe

Cultural Experiences And Entertainment

Attend the Virginia Film Festival in Charlottesville
Experience the Virginia State Fair
Enjoy a performance at the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond
Attend a concert at the Birchmere in Alexandria
Experience the Norfolk Harborfest
Explore the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk
Attend the Virginia International Tattoo
Visit the Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke
Enjoy a show at the historic Barter Theatre in Abingdon

Culinary Delights And Beverage Trails

Sample wines along the Monticello Wine Trail
Indulge in fresh seafood at the Chesapeake Bay
Try authentic Virginia ham in Smithfield
Explore the Richmond Beer Trail
Savor farm-to-table cuisine in Charlottesville

Taste whiskey at the Virginia Distillery Company
Enjoy a traditional Southern breakfast at Michie Tavern
Sample craft beers at Devil Backbone Brewing Company
Try award-winning cheeses at Meadow Creek Dairy
Indulge in apple cider donuts in the Shenandoah Valley

Unique Experiences And Hidden Gems

Visit the Great Stalacpipe Organ in Luray Caverns
Explore the quirky Foamhenge in Natural Bridge
Discover the wild ponies of Grayson Highlands State Park
Visit the Edgar Allan Poe shrine in Richmond
Explore the abandoned Renaissance Faire in Fredericksburg
Discover the Mystery Hole in Ansted
Visit the grave of Stonewall Jackson’s arm
Explore the Norfolk Botanical Garden
Discover the abandoned President Heads in Croaker
Visit the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford

Beaches And Coastal Experiences

Relax on Virginia Beach’s sandy shores.
Explore the charming coastal town of Cape Charles
Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Take a sunset cruise in Norfolk Harbor
Go deep-sea fishing off the coast of Virginia Beach
Explore the Eastern Shore of Virginia
Visit the Assateague Island National Seashore
Kayak through the salt marshes of the Eastern Shore
Climb the Cape Henry Lighthouse
Enjoy fresh oysters on the Virginia Oyster Trail

Seasonal Activities And Events

Pick apples in the Shenandoah Valley during the fall
Attend the Neptune Festival in Virginia Beach
Go leaf-peeping along Skyline Drive in autumn
Enjoy the Holiday Lights at the Norfolk Botanical Garden
Attend the Virginia Beach Boardwalk Art Show

Experience the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival
Celebrate the 4th of July in Washington, D.C.
Attend the Virginia Highlands Festival in Abingdon
Enjoy the Richmond Folk Festival
Experience the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival

Family-Friendly Adventures

Visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Explore the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News
Have fun at Kings Dominion amusement park
Visit the Children’s Museum of Richmond
Explore the Science Museum of Virginia

Virginia’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape—sample award-winning wines along the Monticello Wine Trail or fresh seafood from the Chesapeake Bay. The state’s craft beer scene is booming, with the Richmond Beer Trail offering a taste of local brews.

Don’t miss the chance to try authentic Virginia ham in Smithfield or savor farm-to-table cuisine in Charlottesville. For those seeking unique experiences, Virginia doesn’t disappoint.

Visit the quirky Foamhenge in Natural Bridge, a full-size styrofoam replica of England’s Stonehenge. Explore the abandoned President Heads in Croaker, where giant busts of U.S. presidents stand in an open field.

These offbeat attractions add a touch of whimsy to your Virginia adventure. Coastal experiences abound in Virginia. Relax on the sandy shores of Virginia Beach, explore the charming seaside town of Cape Charles, take a sunset cruise in Norfolk Harbor, or go deep-sea fishing off the coast.

The Virginia Oyster Trail offers a delicious way to explore the state’s coastal regions. Virginia hosts numerous festivals and events annually that showcase its culture and heritage. Attend the Virginia Film Festival in Charlottesville, experience the Norfolk Harborfest, or enjoy the Richmond Folk Festival.

These events provide a window into the state’s vibrant communities and traditions. Families will find plenty of kid-friendly attractions in Virginia. Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers thrilling rides and shows, while the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News provides hands-on science experiences.

The Children’s Museum of Richmond and the Science Museum of Virginia offer interactive exhibits that educate and entertain. As you work through this Virginia bucket list, you’ll discover the incredible diversity and richness of the Old Dominion.

From its mountain peaks to its coastal plains, from its historic sites to its modern attractions, Virginia offers a lifetime of experiences. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, these 85 amazing things to do will help you explore the very best of what Virginia has to offer.