These 10 day trips in Virginia are fun and unique places to explore whenever you need a quick getaway. Virginia is a beautiful state that has a lot to offer for every traveler. From wineries to mountains to cities, you’ll find something that peaks your interest.
I lived in Virginia for five years and loved that there was always a unique place within a two hour drive. If you’re looking for a quick getaway these 10 day trips in Virginia are perfect to explore for a few hours or the entire day!
1) Shenandoah National Park
I’m a sucker for mountains wherever I go, and the Shenandoah mountains do not disappoint! It is one of the few National Parks located in the Northeast.
The park has a $30 entrance fee and it takes you through Skyline Drive- a road filled with spectacular views of the mountains. I decided to do the Hawksbill Mountain Hike (3 miles roundtrip) but there are plenty to choose from!
Hawksbill Mountain is a very moderate hike and has a parking spot pull over right before you reach marker 46. We did the lower loop which is less moderate than the other route. It only took us about 20min to get to the top to see the incredible view.
2) Natural Bridge + Safari Park Day Trip
Virginia is home to a stunning natural gem- Natural Bridge. This bridge stands at 215 feet tall and creates this incredible stone arch. To this day, the Virginia Natural Bridge is one of the nations most visited national wonders with a whooping 1 million visitors per year. At the end of the trail there is a waterfall! The cost to enter the park is $8.
After leaving Natural Bridge, drive 10 minutes down the road you will come across the Virginia Safari Park. This park houses over 1,000 animals that roam freely on 180 acres of land. You are required to stay in your car throughout the drive for the safety of the animals and yourself, but you can still let your window down to feed or pet the animals. The feed buckets cost an extra $5. Book your tickets here.
I promise you, this is a Virginia excursion you do not want to miss! I had tears in my eyes from laughing so hard. Every animal was so nosey to see what was going on in our car. It reminded me of my younger siblings following me around the house and asking me what I was doing.
Fair warning- the animals do not care about your personal space and will enter your car through your window (you are not allowed to open your door or exit your car). The park is 3 mile loop, but may be much longer than you expect because they all move at their own pace!
3) Virginia Beach
Sometimes you just need a beach escape. Fresh air, waves, and a long boardwalk to walk or people watch. Virginia Beach gives you all of that with easy, year-round fun.
While you’re there walk the boardwalk, rent bikes, and catch sunrise if you can. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center offers hands-on exhibits and a break from the sun. Check current ticket pricing and hours before you go.
In season, go apple picking at Cullipher Farm. It’s a fun activity where u-pick the fruit, there’s a playground for the kids, ice cream, a mini market, and sunflower fields when they’re blooming. Book a surf lesson at their new Atlantic Park Surf Club. We did the beginner’s class and had a blast! Coaches help with the basics, and there’s a pool and lounge chairs for a post-session reset.
4) Richmond Day Trip
There is so much to say about this vibrant city, but if you want an in depth guide you can check out my Richmond City Guide. Richmond is the capital of Virginia and a certain charm to it. Richmond has something for outdoor enthusiasts, beer lovers, foodies, families, and more that makes it a fun getaway for a day trip in Virginia. A few must do’s for Richmond are:
- Belle Isle– A river where you can kayak, go white water rafting, hiking or just people watch on the rocks near the bank of the water.
- Libby Hill Park– This parks shows is situated above the city and gives you a great view. It’s amazing at sunset.
- Carytown– This street is filled with cute boutiques and restaurants
- Sabai Restaurant– If you love Thai food this place is a must. As someone who has been to Thailand, I can attest that their food takes very authentic.
5) Luray Caverns
This was my first experience seeing caves and I really enjoyed it! It was very cold once we got down to the bottom so make sure to pack layers. The fee for the caves is $27 for adults and $14 for kids. There are also other attractions on the property such as a maze, adventure in the sky, and hiking trails.
6) Charlottesville Day Trip
Charlottesville is the perfect day trip in Virginia for my wine and beer lovers. There are so many wineries to choose from you just have to pick one that suits you best (or has availability). Some of them require reservations so make sure you call before or check their website. We opted for the Valley Road winery and really enjoyed it.
Then we went to the downtown mall area and had dinner. This is a great spot for shopping. If you want more ideas on what to do in Charlottesville you can read my full guide here.
7) Williamsburg
Williamsburg is a great day trip in Virginia for history lovers, but there is still plenty to do even if museums aren’t your thing. Colonial Williamsburg is a living history district with costumed interpreters, trades, and period homes. The streets and greens are free to walk. If you want to step inside the buildings or book a guided tour, you’ll need a ticket.
If you want some excitement, head to Busch Gardens for coasters, shows, and seasonal events. It’s a full-day adventure on its own. Rent bikes and hop on the Virginia Capital Trail to take photos and enjoy the views.
If you want to get in the water you can visit Jamestown Beach or Yorktown Beach for calm water and a sandy shoreline. Or book a James River tour near Jamestown or a York River sail at Yorktown for sunset views and dolphin sightings in season.
8) Massanutten Resort Day Trip
Massanutten Ski Resort is the spot if you want an easy snow day without overthinking the logistics. Come for skiing and snowboarding, then add snow tubing, ice skating, and even the indoor WaterPark to round out your day.
9) Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria sits along the Potomac River with brick sidewalks, pastel row houses, and cobblestone streets. Stroll King Street for indie boutiques, cafés, and galleries, then wander to the waterfront for parks, public art, and sailboat views.
Pop into the Torpedo Factory Art Center to watch artists at work, or visit the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum for a quick dose of history. If you’re feeling active, hop on the Mount Vernon Trail for an easy riverside bike ride.
Getting here is simple—it’s minutes from DC by Metro, car, or water taxi. Spend a sunny afternoon browsing shops, grabbing gelato, and catching sunset over the river before dinner on a patio.
10) MacAfee Knob
This 7.8-mile out-and-back on the Appalachian Trail climbs steadily from the VA-311 parking area to one of Virginia’s most photographed overlooks. Expect roots, rocks, and a few long, gradual switchbacks before the trail levels off near the ridge. The payoff is the famous ledge at McAfee Knob with wide views of Catawba Valley and the Blue Ridge—perfect for a quick snack and a photo (from a safe distance).
Go early, or on a weekday, to beat crowds and summer heat. Pack plenty of water, a wind layer for the exposed summit, and a headlamp if you’re aiming for sunrise or sunset. Dogs should stay leashed, and the rock can be slick after rain. Stay behind the edge, leave no trace, and enjoy one of the best vistas in the state!
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