Beautiful Virginia Locations for Your Next Summer Getaway

Virginia is known across the country as one of the more scenic places to visit. It has a unique east coast appeal, a rich history, and vibrant local culture. With some of the best beaches on the East Coast, scenic hiking destinations, and quaint towns with top-notch shopping options, Virginia is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exciting domestic vacation.

Every time of year in Virginia is a great time to visit, but summer could be the best. The scorching Virginia heat makes relaxing by the Atlantic all the more appealing, and there are numerous festivals and events throughout the state during the summer.

If you’re considering a trip in Virginia, options are abundant. Let’s explore three of the top locations in Virginia for an unforgettable summer getaway.

Virginia Beach is the most populous city in the state, a thriving urban center set along the water. Virginia Beach is located where the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic collide, and it is a popular summer tourist destination for its unmatched combination of beaches, tourist attractions, and cultural appeal. The beaches may be the biggest draw, with 38 miles of shoreline and 28 miles of sandy public beach.

Beyond its enduring waterfront appeal, Virginia Beach also has a unique history. First Landing State Park is the exact site where the Jamestown colonists arrived in 1607. This spot is open to visitors today. Virginia Beach also has excellent dining options, an array of great shopping centers, and tourist attractions like an aquarium, boardwalks, and more.

Norfolk and Virginia Beach are neighboring cities, separated by roughly a 20-minute drive. Norfolk also has the waterfront appeal that Virginia Beach is famous for, although it lacks the sandy coastline. Still, Norfolk is situated along Chesapeake, which makes it a great destination for boaters. But Norfolk is also a cultural hub within the state, with some of the best music, museums, and entertainment.

Norfolk has top-notch museums and historical displays. These include the Chrysler Museum of Art, Chrysler Hall, the National Maritime Center, and Nauticus. It also has fantastic concert venues, such as the Virginia Opera and the Virginia Symphony. It is a scenic city on the water filled with top-notch cultural attractions.

Williamsburg is a scenic and historic city with a legacy stretching back nearly 400 years. It served as the capital of Virginia for nearly a century, and the city’s great history is a big part of its appeal to tourists. It is a top place to visit to explore American colonial history, with the highlight being Colonial Williamsburg. This is a living museum with actors and complete historical accuracy. It is an immersive way to experience firsthand what life would’ve been like at the dawn of modern America.

If you’re less interested in history, there’s still much to do and see in Williamsburg. The town is known for its great breweries and delicious restaurants, there are an array of luxury spas, and the nature around the town is perfect for hiking and exploration. It is a scenic place that is a must-visit for anyone eyeing Virginia for their next summer excursion.