Virginia is for lovers, the slogan the state's tourism campaign has been touting for years. The reasons for this may not be automatically apparent, but there’s no denying that Virginia offers a lot in the way of things to see and do, particularly for mountain enthusiasts, seafood fans and history buffs.

Indeed, visitors to Virginia will quickly discover why it's known as the mother of all states. Jamestown was the first permanent English colony in what was to become the United States of America. Virginia is also known as the mother of presidents, as eight Virginians have gone on to become our country's fearless leader, including the country’s first president, George Washington.

From nature in the Blue Ridge Mountains to touring the state’s wineries, there is much opportunity to appreciate the outdoors. Yet one of the biggest draws to Virginia is the many significant historical locations, such as Jamestowne and the Appomattox Court House.

The state’s landmarks depict various events throughout US history from the English settlements and the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. To boot, there is ample fine dining at Chesapeake Bay and plentiful cozy oceanfront accommodations in Virginia Beach, while the vast scenery of Grayson Highlands State Park is also a highlight.

The weather in Virginia changes drastically according to which region you are in: in the south it is warmer and more humid, at the Pacific coast it can be very rainy (especially around the Chesapeake Bay and during hurricane season). The Blue Ridge Mountains dominate the western and southwestern parts of the state and they are usually snow-blanketed throughout the winter, but the north of Virginia is by far the coldest part of the state. The best time to visit is in the summer time, particularly in July around the coastal areas to enjoy the beach and some bright, warm Virginia sunshine.

Traveling throughout Virginia is easy. As with many developed US states, public transportation consists of railways, metro lines, taxis, and buses. Car rental is aplenty and a good option to take advantage of the network of highways as well as scenic drives in the area. The best time to visit is in the summer, but with Virginia’s Goldilocks climate, many activities can be done year round.

Highlights

  • Bike or hike along the scenic mountain trails of the Blue Ridge Mountains
  • Tour a winery to experience the delicious fruits of Virginia’s vineyards
  • Learn about early US history by visiting the first permanent English colony at Historic Jamestowne
  • Explore the events leading up to the end of the American Civil War and the abolition of slavery in the Appomattox Court House
  • Taste the freshest bounty of Chesapeake Bay by dining in the excellent seafood restaurants of Virginia Beach
  • Experience the best music, arts, crafts, and food at Virginia's State Fair, held every September near Richmond

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