Smith Mountain Lake a popular Virginia vacation spot, 15. Shenandoah National Park is in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls. To help you make informed decisions about your travels, weve compiled a short comparison of crime rates in various cities across Virginia. For more information about Carvins Cove, read on to learn more about one of the. Virginia Beach. Find out about visiting this tranquil hideaway at, This beautiful refuge features Lake Drummond (one of Virginia's two natural lakes) and offers over 200 species of birds and wildlife including deer, black bear, bobcats, river otters, and more. Its important to be aware of your surroundings and do research on specific neighborhoods before visiting. The ocean view itself is worth the trip, but the boardwalk has so much fun like street performers, live music, and all kinds of activities. On weekends in October, a torrent of water is released from the John Flannagan Dam and Reservoir upstream, creating high-quality and not to mention highly challenging conditions for whitewater rafting. 15 Small Towns in Virginia for a Relaxing Weekend Getaway Sky Meadows State Park. These lodging options will provide a memorable experience and wont break the bank. Are you mapping out a journey to Virginia and pondering over potential places to avoid? Lastly, always communicate with local guides and folks in the area youre visiting. Devils Bathtub. Well delve into the places to avoid in Virginia, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the most of your adventure while staying safe along the way. However, Virginia isnt just about the cities and coastline its also known for its world-class parks. Shenandoah National Park Source: Jon Bilous / shutterstock Shenandoah National Park Heading up my list is a national park on a giant tranche of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Love Virginia? Closing out my list is a little slice of heaven on the largest body of freshwater in Virginia. See what Virginia has to offer with the lodging categories below. However, you should still be cautious when visiting busier areas with large populations and higher crime rates. The beautifully preserved landscape includes 6 miles of coastline and offers kayaking, camping, interpretive programs exploring the parks Native American history, hiking, and biking trails. Originally built as an April Fools joke, this styrofoam Stonehenge is a weird and quirky attraction that can be found at Cox Farms in Centreville. Discovering Virginia's Picturesque Mountain Towns Now, whats a trip to Virginia without experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Shenandoah National Park? Dont forget to practice common-sense safety measures like keeping an eye on your belongings and not venturing alone in unfamiliar areas. Foamhenge. Finally, dont forget about Newport News and Hampton. Two of the country's most legendary scenic drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive, are filled with scenic mountain overlooks, abundant wildlife, historic . To find out more, please see our Privacy Policy. If something seems off or a new cafe you stumbled upon feels dodgy, trust your gut and leave. Chief Bob Benge, for whom the trail is named, was an infamous Native American chief, known for raiding European settlements throughout southwest Virginia in the late 1700s, killing dozens of settlers. Museum founder and an avid collector, James H. Whitty, believed the poem to be a reference to an actual garden in Richmond where Poe had courted his first love, who later broke his heart. 1. Something that will strike you is how arrow-straight the shoreline is, disappearing into the distance north and south. Keep yourself and your family safe by being cautious and staying informed about local crime rates. If you're looking for a place to go in Virginia that only the locals know about, you might start with a trip to Fairy Stone State Park. A trying hike through the forest near Fort Blackmore will lead you to this oasis. A big part of this places charm comes from Old Town Alexandria, the third oldest historic district in the United States, bursting at the seams with stately 18th and 19th-century townhouses, on cobblestone streets and red-brick sidewalks. Portsmouth is a fairly large city with just under 100,000 residents, and according to Travel Safe, its the most dangerous community in Virginia. This is the road trip of a lifetime, with as many as 75 scenic overlooks along just over 100 miles of road. Thomas Jefferson first wrote about them in the 1700s, recording that they were over 200-feet high. Youre in luck, as Ive gathered some important information just for you. The Best Things To Do In Beautiful Virginia Beach | TravelAwaits It runs through a total of eight different counties; along the way, youll see bicyclists and pedestrians as well as black bears, deer, turkey, and numerous other wildlife. These are windswept mountain meadows, made all the more atmospheric by craggy outcroppings. Curious to learn more about hiking Old Rag Mountain in Virginia? Although the trail ends at the Little Stony Falls Trailhead, many will go the extra half-mile to see the falls themselves. If youre willing to put in the steps, a four-mile hike will bring you to a geological wonder. With 38 state parks dotting the landscape, theres plenty of space for everyone to enjoy. Cool Places to Stay in Virginia: Virginia Hotels that are Worth the Trip Skyline Drive a scenic byway that stretches along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park, 7. Do you know of others? It offers a variety of activities including hiking, waterfalls, camping, bicycling, and a beautiful skyline drive that is 105 miles long. When the word "enchanted" is in the title, you have to give it a second look. You can check out the Great Falls along 15 miles of trails, but as a fan of historic infrastructure Im also inspired by the human history of this place. My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since Ive lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. The portion of the trail pictured here is near High Knob Lake. 3 The Rocky Gap Casino and Resort. 14 Of The Most Beautiful Towns In Virginia You Should Visit - TheTravel A higher unemployment rate or poverty level can lead to increased criminal activity. It's known that fall foliage is at its best in mid-October, so many visitors get here during this season. As a result, its essential to keep this in mind when planning your family vacation. Though the available information is not extensive, its still vital to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings in areas with higher crime rates. 1 Antietam's Jacob Rohrbach Inn B&B. The town is renowned for its stunning architecture, tree-lined streets, and the scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. I recommend avoiding the hike during periods of high water, as the conditions can be hazardous after sustained wet weather. 16 Unique And Beautiful Vacation Spots In Virginia You'll Love We would love to have you add to the list in the comments below! Fossil Beach on the east side is a fun place to search for sharks teeth, and you dont need to be a paleontologist to make a discovery. 15 Best Resorts in Virginia Beach - The Crazy Tourist It consists mostly of a two-lane highway and has a total of 75 beautiful overlooks, providing people with a gorgeous and relaxing way to get out of the car and stretch their legs for a minute. For more incredible waterfalls, be sure to read about this, This attraction is far less accessible than others on the list, yet it's certainly worth mentioning. When it comes to finding the best places to visit in Virginia, youll want a mix of charm, safety, and of course, fun activities to fill your days. Great Falls Park is a National Park Service (NPS) facility in Great Falls, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C. As you venture through Virginias rich history and beautiful landscapes that it has to offer, dont let this information hold you back from making memories with your loved ones. The ethereal beauty of Devil's Bathtub is like something from a fairytale. While Virginia Beach has a population of 457,672, its crime rates are surprisingly low, making it one of the safest places in Virginia. Plan your visit at. Here the snaking Russell Fork has hollowed out a gigantic break from the sandstone, between 830 and 1,600 feet deep and continuing for five miles. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Weve got you covered. Named the 'Gem of the Eastern Shore' by John Smith, it is known as a paradise for budget travelers. Plan your hike, When the word "enchanted" is in the title, you have to give it a second look. Among some of the better-known National Parks, Great Falls remains something of a hidden gem. Here, you'll. The nearby state park opened in 1983, making this area a great place for families to spend the day and enjoy themselves. But fear not, Im here to help you navigate your journey effectively. Unique Places to Stay in Virginia: 10 Cool & Quirky Rentals The overlook in front of the Mill Mountain Star has an almost vertical vista of downtown Roanoke, with a hazy ridgeline in the distance. Up in the Appalachian Mountains in the very west of Virginia, the Devils Fork Conservation Area protects more than 4,500 acres of rocky upland wilderness, explored along trails and old logging roads. Although Natural Bridge is the headline, its one of a few reasons to visit the state park, including the 30-foot Lace Falls, the rugged scenery along the gorge, and a replica village for the Monacan Native Americans, for whom the Natural Bridge was a sacred site. Not so much a place as a series of spellbinding experiences, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway begins where Skyline Drive ends, at Rockfish Gap, and winds through astounding mountainscapes for almost 217 miles before entering North Carolina. An expanse of the Virginia bank of the Potomac is a National Park Service site, with perfect vantage points of this surprisingly rugged natural feature. Charlottesville an important historic city in Virginia, 6. Well, its important to keep in mind that this little piece aims to help you make informed decisions while planning your family trip to Virginia. The 105-mile long Skyline Drive is perfect for a scenic drive in any. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Richmond is a city full of beauty, charm, and excellent culinary options. Certain neighborhoods might struggle with crime because of events or circumstances throughout their history. Though both cities offer unique experiences like rich history and beautiful landscapes, they also have some neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Virginia is an absolutely wonderful state to visit with its lush natural places like Shenandoah National Park, the James River, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as some of the best hotels like the Martha Washington Inn, Boars Head Resort, Primland Resort, and the Omni Homestead Resort. Remember, dodging specific spots doesnt equal missing Virginias charisma. Love Virginia? 9. South Boston has a population of just over 8,000 residents, while Franklin is a small town with a population of around 1,000 people. To underline that fact youve got Mill Mountain, a highly prominent peak within the city limits, climbing steeply over the Roanoke River. The clue is in the name, because theres no better spot for a beach vacation in Virginia. Spread across the Blue Ridge Mountains, this park offers some of the best things to do in Virginia, like hiking, wildlife watching, picnicking, and even horseback riding. Primland, Meadows of Dan Photo Source: Primland . 11 Places to Find the Prettiest Fall Foliage in Virginia Not only is the architecture impressive and beautiful, but the surrounding scenery is stunning. If youre up for the hike, Devils Bathtub is all the reward you can imagine and more. Old Town Alexandria. Dont forget to keep your spirits high and a smile on your face throughout your journey. Touring the house and the grounds youll learn tons of fascinating details. Nearby are the hedge maze, rope course, a walking trail, and a total of three museums. Where can I go in Virginia that only the locals know about? See Full List. True to its name, the floor of this natural dome is laid with sand, and you can look up and study the curious erosion patterns and the colorful patterns in the rock. Earlier, Natural Bridge is believed to have been surveyed by a young George Washington in the mid-18th century, who may or may not be responsible for the initials G.W. Choosing the most beautiful place in Virginia is subjective and can vary based on personal preferences. 11 Of The Most Beautiful Places In Virginia You'll Want To Explore The result is Colonial Williamsburg, the most popular visitor attraction in Virginia, with hundreds of restored or rebuilt buildings on more than 300 acres. The Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway pass by close to this endearing city, wrapped in epic mountain scenery. Price: $274/night Amenities: Screened porch, kitchenette, washer/dryer, Wi-Fi, full bathroom, 4-person hot tub. Avoid wandering into less-visited parts of the city, especially at night, to ensure safety. A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. 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Jamestown an important historic site in east Virginia, 16. Mountaineer Country's 2,200 cabin, motel and hotel rooms ensure an abundance of amenities at multiple price points. Photo Credit: Cindy Barks. Youve probably heard the phrase Safety first. a thousand times, but it really does apply when traveling with children. 21 Top Things to Do in Virginia - U.S. News Travel If you only have time for one short hike from Skyline Drive, the Dark Hollow Falls Trail leads to the foot of a 70-foot cascade ensconced in hardwood forest. When you explore this lovely state, whether its at the fine wineries or enjoying outdoor activities like mountain biking, hitting the golf course, or swimming at Virginia Beach, youll want a place to stay thats like a home away from home. Charlottesville. 4 Carmel Cove Inn, Deep Creek Lake. Places To Stay In Virginia Beach. Its a tricky path with streams and slippery rocks, but once you reach Devils Bathtub a pool of nearly crystal green water at the base of a stone slide you will know it was well worth it. Cool Places to Stay in Virginia: Virginia Hotels that are Worth the Trip Northeast Cool Places to Stay in Virginia: Virginia Hotels that are Worth the Trip From secluded mountain retreats to charming vineyard stays, Virginia is home to plenty of hotels that are well worth the trip. The bridge itself is 215 feet high and has a span of 90 feet. PLACES TO STAY IN MOUNTAINEER COUNTRY. Virginia Beach's own Christina Rado is a writer for Family Destinations Guide. Would you add any to the list? Embedded in the Appalachian Mountains on the VA/KY line is a cloud-wreathed canyon that was named by Daniel Boone when he passed through in 1767. 3. $220 night. 66K views, 821 likes, 1.3K loves, 9.7K comments, 1.5K shares, Facebook Watch Videos from Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc.: July 18th, 2023 ~. Whether you're a fan of the beach itself, the unique landscape, or perhaps the iconic lighthouse, you'll love a trip to this gem of the Eastern Shore. 9 Best Small Towns to Visit in Virginia. Now, you might be wondering, Whats the difference?. 25 Best Places to Visit in Virginia - VacationIdea.com Alexandria, Virginia is the place that George Washington called home. One of the best places to visit for a romantic Virginia getaway is beautiful Charlottesville. The Appalachian Trail passes along the rim of this giant ovular depression at the top of a mountain. See it for yourself with a visit to the, Yogaville, an interfaith community located in rural Buckingham County, is home to the Satchidananda Ashram. However, South Boston still experiences high crime rates, particularly in the property crime category. When youre vacationing with the whole family, youll need a spacious stay thats comfortable and has room enough for everyone. The Light of Truth Universal Shrine (also known as LOTUS) has been around since 1982 and serves as a site celebrating interfaith worship and spirituality. Campers have to abide by a leave no trace policy before they are allowed to camp there. Virginia is an absolutely wonderful state to visit with its lush natural places like Shenandoah National Park, the James River, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as some of the best hotels like the Martha Washington Inn, Boar's Head Resort, Primland Resort, and the Omni Homestead Resort. A Guide To The Best Fall Foliage Spots In West Virginia For - TheTravel The full diversity of ecosystems at the park can be discovered on 19 miles of trails, and you can extend your stay at a campsite or cabin. Whether you hike or simply explore the cave, you'll feel like a true explorer. Isnt it amazing how such simple habits like hand washing and sanitizing can keep you healthy on your travels? However, just like any city, its important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings to ensure a fun and safe visit. Virginia Beach is on the southeastern coast of Virginia and is an independent city of roughly 450,000 people. Not only are the views of this lovely beach absolutely stunning, but seeing the wild horses roaming about is simply magical. 9 Best Small Towns to Visit in Virginia - WorldAtlas Thomas Jefferson was such a big fan of this natural wonder that he purchased the property in 1774, and entertained guests here for decades afterwards. This is a tiny-cabin - +/- 416 sq ft. Its smart to seek top-notch experiences when stepping into the vibrant landscape of this state. Best Places To Work 2022 - Virginia Business . There's a designated parking and viewing area so visitors can easily and safely admire the attraction. The highlight of the community is the LOTUS shrine. For instance, theres a set of wildlife habitats where you can see species native to Virginia, like bison, elk, black bears, and several birds of prey. Cape Charles. Just outside of Roanoke, the waters here are a bright, sapphire blue, and its the place to go kayaking among idyllic views. On occasion, planning a family trip might have you considering various safety aspects. If you can make the hike early or late in the day youll be treated to a scene of astonishing beauty. Sit on your private patio and grill or cook in the modern (if small) kitchen. Virginia Beachfront and Boardwalk. During warmer months, visitors can rent kayaks or fish in select areas. The 10 Best Blue Ridge Mountains Hotels Where To Stay in Blue Ridge Located within Shenandoah National Park, this iconic Virginia hike requires 10.2 miles and lots of rocky obstacles. Though it's less than an hour from Washington D.C., it provides a much-needed escape from modern society. In Virginia, the communities with the most significant economic challenges may also experience higher crime rates. Here are seven places for a wonderful oceanside stay in Virginia Beach, Virginia. While Virginia is filled with beautiful scenery and fantastic attractions, there are a few cities that consistently rank as some of the state's most dangerous. Published January 26, 2022 by Virginia Business. Country Road Cabins Country Road Cabins provide treehouses that has so many beautiful views among the canopies of West Virginia's distinctive foliage. Monongahela National Forest - a beautiful place to explore with gorgeous vistas, country roads and flowing streams A vast paradise of beautiful forest, rugged landscape and free-flowing rivers, the Monongahela National Forest is located in the Allegheny Mountains of East Virginia.