Family Attractions in Virginia and the surrounding areas is a beautiful place to visit year round and, if you are looking for a less-expensive vacation destination for the whole family, it may be just the spot for you.
By doing a bit of research and knowing what kind of vacation you’re after, you can find fun things for the entire family, family fun and great prices on accommodations and enjoy free attractions and special events.
Start planning ahead and keep an eye out for discounts and travel specials and you’ll be seeing Virginia for a great price.
Where to Stay
Virginia has all kinds of accommodations, from first-class resorts and hotels to campgrounds, Bed and Breakfasts and vacation rentals, there is something for everyone.
If you find yourself in Virginia during the summer months, why not take advantage of the mild weather to do a bit of camping. With campgrounds spread around the state, it is an inexpensive way to stay as well as a great way to get right into the thick of the outdoors.
If you’re traveling with a group consider renting a vacation home which is a great way to share the cost of accommodations.
A house will also provide you with a kitchen, which can help reduce the amount of eating out you’ll do while away from home. If it’s just your family, a Bed and Breakfast is a great way to cut back on eating-out costs as well.
The Great Outdoors And Fun Activities
Virginia is a haven for outdoor activities and, as a result, for cheap entertainment on your family activities.
With mountain ranges, miles of trails, oceans and lush, rolling hills all around, there is no shortage of free sightseeing in this breathtaking state for visitors of all ages.
Spend a day hiking through the Appalachian footpaths and the next soaking up the sun at Virginia Beach only to move onto fishing in the Atlantic on another day and visiting any of the state’s parks on yet another. And, do it all without spending much money.
Attractions
Virginia may be full of the sprawling outdoors but there are many more attractions and activities that you can take in and without them costing too much.
Virginia is home to a number of breweries and vineyards with rich history where you can spend the day taking a guided tour of the grounds and some wineries even offer complimentary tastings.
With so much history in Virginia, you could easily spend an entire vacation visiting historical sites and museums as well.
The state of Virginia, which is steeped in historical importance, was the birthplace of eight U.S. presidents.
The terrain of Virginia offers something for everyone, from the beautiful rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the west to the glorious water views of Chesapeake Bay in the east.
Abingdon
For a laid-back, relaxing weekend getaway, consider visiting the historic town of Abingdon. The oldest town west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Abingdon has served as the Washington County seat since 1778.
Situated in the southwestern part of the state and nestled in the rolling hills halfway between Roanoke, Va, and Knoxville, Tenn, the town boasts wonderful scenery; music, drama and arts festivals; and numerous arts-and-crafts shops, galleries and eclectic shopping options.
Take a stroll or bike ride along the picturesque Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains between Abingdon and Whitetop.
Reasonably priced accommodations are available in town, from cozy bed-and-breakfast lodgings, such as the historic Inn on Town Creek, to chain motels, including the Hampton Inn.
Chincoteague Island
This sleepy, quaint fishing village set on a 7-mile-long strip off of Virginia’s eastern shore, offers an unspoiled, family-oriented weekend getaway.
Chincoteague Island will take you back to a bygone era, with its undeveloped pristine shoreline, family-run shops, quiet Main Street and locally owned family restaurants.
Explore all Chincoteague has to offer, including a secluded beach, a wildlife refuge, wild ponies, biking, boating, fishing and the Oyster and Maritime Museum.
The Best Western Chincoteague Island and the Hampton Inn and Suites Chincoteague Island both offer reasonably priced accommodations.
Culpeper
Situated in the heart of the state and set midway between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Chesapeake Bay is the historic town of Culpeper.
Known for its beautiful scenery and numerous vineyards, the town offers a wide array of activities, including a “Wine and Moonshine” tour; activities for children; many unique stores in the downtown area; and historic sites such as the Civil War battlegrounds of Cedar Mountain, Kelly’s Ford and Brandy Station.
The location is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who will enjoy the biking and hiking trails, hunting, fishing, golfing and horseback riding.
The quaint downtown area of Culpeper boasts both fine dining and more casual restaurants, such as diners and coffee shops.
Stay in a local bed-and-breakfast establishment, such as Hampton Inn & Suites Culpeper, or opt to stay at the Red Roof Inn Culpeper.
Children’s Activities in Virginia
Virginia may be for lovers, but it’s also for children too. If you and your family enjoy healthy and active travel, consider a trip to Virginia, a state known for its dramatic Shenandoah Valley and scenic coastline.
If your kids love the outdoors or learning about history, a trip to Virginia will be something they won’t forget.
The Aquarium Is A Popular Attraction And Great For Young Children
Located in Virginia Beach, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center features 700,000 gallons of water, home to sea creatures big and small.
You and your family can get close and personal with sharks, stingrays and sea turtles while walking from exhibit to exhibit.
The Aquarium also offers an outdoor aviary and a short nature trail where you can explore the Virginia marshland.
Skiing
What do you do if it’s the middle of summer but your kids want to go skiing or snowboarding? They can ski in July if you visit Lynchburg’s Snowflex Center.
Featuring synthetic snow year round, the Snowflex Center is run by Liberty University, using Snowflex technology to emulate the look and feel of real snow.
If you don’t have your own ski gear, you can rent it at the Snowflex Center.
Hiking
If your kids are into hiking, take them to the picturesque Shenandoah National Park. For smaller kids, consider the easy 1-mile Blackrock Summit trail that offers views of the valley and rock outcroppings to climb out onto.
For something a little more challenging, the 2.4-mile Compton Peak trail offers panoramic view along with some steep and rocky hiking.
Horses
For kids who love horses, visit Chincoteague Island. This swampy island is home to wild ponies. Spend a night camping out on Chincoteague Island, where you can watch the crashing waves and even fish from the beach.
In July, the annual Chincoteague Annual Pony Swim is held, in which the ponies are shepherded from Assteague Island in Maryland to Chincoteague.
Museums Are The Perfect Place For Kids
Richmond’s Science Museum of Virginia is a way for your kids to both play and learn at the same time.
The museum features permanent and rotating exhibits that explore everything from biology to chemistry. Highlights include riding Segways to seeing an IMAX film in a five-story theater.
Virginia offers a wide range of options for summer activities and unforgettable family vacations. From its rich history and cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty of the public beaches, the best best family-friendly attractions, the state has something to offer for everyone, even younger children.
Whether you’re exploring historical landmarks in colonial Williamsburg, enjoying outdoor adventures in Shenandoah National Park, or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Virginia Beach, there are plenty of opportunities for fun and educational experiences.
Virginia’s family-friendly attractions, such as amusement theme parks with roller coasters and water slides, state parks, museums, and interactive exhibits, make it an ideal destination for children of all ages.
The state’s commitment to preserving its history and heritage means that families can engage in immersive experiences, educational programs, stepping back in time to learn about the founding of the United States and the lives of its early settlers.
Moreover, Virginia’s scenic landscapes provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating.
The state’s national parks, including Shenandoah and the Blue Ridge Parkway, offer breathtaking vistas and an abundance of wildlife, providing a perfect backdrop for family adventures and exploration.