About Virginia
Virginia, known as the 'Old Dominion' and 'Mother of Presidents,' offers travelers a captivating blend of American history, natural beauty, and modern sophistication. History comes alive in Colonial Williamsburg, where costumed interpreters recreate 18th-century life, and at Mount Vernon, the meticulously preserved estate of George Washington. The state's scenic diversity ranges from the sun-drenched beaches of Virginia Beach and the Chesapeake Bay to the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for hiking along the Appalachian Trail or driving the breathtaking Skyline Drive. Urban explorers will find vibrant culture in cities like Richmond, with its thriving arts scene and Civil War history, and Alexandria's charming Old Town with cobblestone streets and waterfront dining. Virginia's wine country in Loudoun County and the historic Shenandoah Valley offer pastoral escapes, while theme parks like Busch Gardens provide family fun. From the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery to the natural wonder of Luray Caverns, Virginia delivers an unforgettable journey through America's past and present.
Things to do in Virginia
Wildlife Boat Tour with Wild Ponies and Dolphins in Chincoteague
Virginia, USA
From GHS 987
5.0 (37)
Kayak Tour around Chincoteague and Assateague Islands
Virginia, USA
From GHS 998
5.0 (33)
Arlington Cemetery Private Tour
Washington DC, USA
From GHS 9,807
5.0 (30)
Historic Leesburg Guided Walking Tour
Virginia, USA
From GHS 617
5.0 (26)
Journey Through America's Most Historic Cemetery Complex
Virginia, USA
3- Hour Private Customizable Washington, DC Tour
Washington DC, USA
From GHS 5,044
5.0 (20)
Walking Tour in George Washington's Alexandria
Virginia, USA
From GHS 337
5.0 (11)
Private Mount Vernon Tour
Virginia, USA
From GHS 11,152
5.0 (9)
Private Washington to Gettysburg Tour by Luxury Car
Virginia, USA
From GHS 31,326
5.0 (9)
Private United States Army Tour in Washington DC by Luxury Car
Virginia, USA
From GHS 15,635
5.0 (9)
Airport Service To / From DCA National & IAD Dulles
Virginia, USA
Private Washington Monuments Tour
Virginia, USA
From GHS 12,273
5.0 (8)
Private Marine Corps Tour of Washington DC by Luxury Car
Virginia, USA
From GHS 18,437
5.0 (8)
Mosaic Lamp Workshop
Virginia, USA
From GHS 1,345
5.0 (5)
Old Town Alexandria to Mount Vernon Bike Rentals
Virginia, USA
From GHS 238
5.0 (4)Travel Tips for Virginia
Getting Around
A rental car is highly recommended for exploring beyond major cities, especially for mountain and rural areas. Interstate highways (I-95, I-64, I-81) connect key regions. Public transit options include the Washington Metro serving Northern Virginia, Amtrak trains along the Northeast Corridor, and local bus systems in cities like Richmond (GRTC) and Hampton Roads (HRT). Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Lyft) are widely available in urban and suburban areas. For scenic travel, consider the Virginia Breeze intercity bus or cycling on trails like the Virginia Capital Trail. Ferries operate across the Chesapeake Bay and James River.
Best Time To Visit
April to June and September to October are ideal. Spring (April-June) offers mild weather, blooming gardens, and festivals like the Virginia Arts Festival. Fall (September-October) features spectacular foliage in the mountains, pleasant temperatures, and harvest events at wineries. Summer (July-August) is popular for beaches but can be hot and humid with crowds. Winter (December-February) is quieter with opportunities for skiing in mountain regions, but some attractions may have reduced hours.
Local Customs
Virginia is known for its Southern hospitality; polite greetings and 'please/thank you' are appreciated. Dress is generally casual but neat; upscale restaurants may require business casual attire. Tipping is customary: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and a few dollars for hotel housekeeping. Respect historical sites and monuments; many are considered sacred ground. Social norms are moderate; avoid controversial topics like politics in initial conversations. Outdoor etiquette includes leaving no trace in natural areas. Alcohol laws vary by county; the legal drinking age is 21.
Safety Information
Virginia is generally safe for travelers. Exercise normal precautions in cities like Richmond, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach, especially at night in less crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings in tourist spots to avoid petty theft. Driving safety is crucial: obey speed limits, be cautious on mountainous roads like Skyline Drive, and watch for wildlife. Scams are rare but be wary of overly aggressive street vendors in tourist areas. Weather-related safety is important: heed hurricane warnings on the coast (Aug-Oct) and be prepared for sudden thunderstorms in summer. Emergency alerts can be received via wireless emergency alerts (WEA) on mobile phones.
Health Information
Virginia has excellent medical facilities, including top-rated hospitals in urban areas like Inova Fairfax and VCU Medical Center. No special vaccinations are required for travel. Common health concerns include seasonal allergies (spring/fall) and tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease in wooded areas; use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities. Travelers should have comprehensive health insurance as U.S. medical costs are high. Pharmacies are widely available. COVID-19 precautions may vary; check current guidelines. In rural areas, emergency services may have longer response times.
Languages Spoken
English
Quick Facts
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
$
$
Timezone
America/New_York -05:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+1
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
8.7 million
Area
110787 km²
Government
State government with executive, legislative, and judicial branches; further divided into counties and independent cities
ISO Code
VA