Central Virginia has a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities, summer vacations and day trips can easily be spent here. In our tough economy, many families are looking to relax close to home, and in Virginia, these opportunities are right outside your door. With plenty of outdoor recreation and indoor adventures, there’s no need to plan a long-distance trip and pay high airfare costs. Whether you want to hike parts of the Appalachian Trail, take in scenic views on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or expand your knowledge of Virginia history, there’s something for everyone. More Virginians are realizing they can vacation in their home state.
Virginia’s 35 state parks offer outdoor enthusiasts a plethora of opportunities. Surrounded by beautiful lakes and hiking trails, our state parks are a wonder. Most campgrounds and cabins are open from March 1 through the first week of December, and several offer more developed sites with modern amenities such as cooking and grilling equipment, bathhouses, electrical and water hookups. . If the night in a tent does not suit you, there are cabins and cabins for rent to make your vacation in the woods more comfortable. With the typical 14-day camping assignment, families and adventurers can plan an extended vacation to a Virginia state park.
Richmond offers a wealth of historic culture and charm, perfect for a day trip or weekend away. Named the City of Monuments, Richmond provides visitors with an insight into history, and it can be found by walking down Monument Avenue. This monumental street is reminiscent of native Virginia Civil War Confederates as well as Arthur Ashe, an international tennis star and Richmond native. The James River is also a main highlight of the area. Here, thrill-seekers can raft down the turbulent waters or jump rocks from one side of the river to the other.
The historical significance and lush landscapes of Virginia continue north to Charlottesville. With a good blend of history, architecture, and small-town sophistication, the Charlottesville area attracts millions of visitors each year. Home of Thomas Jefferson and His Legacies: A University and His Home, Monticello, Charlottesville is a beautiful place for any visitor to explore. Whether you want to spend the day hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains, enjoying Virginia’s best wines on a multi-vineyard tour, or walking the campus of one of Virginia’s most prestigious universities, Charlottesville offers it all.
Named Virginia’s Historic Triangle, Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown provides visitors with exciting and enriching ways to spend their summer days. Those who are historically inclined can spend time learning the history of the state dating back to the American Revolution. The College of William and Mary is a popular tourist destination as it is the second oldest educational institution in the country. In addition to historical sites, the area offers entertainment with its shopping malls and amusement parks. With such a wide range of activities, it’s no wonder the area is one of the most popular visitor hotspots in the state.
No matter where in Virginia you decide to spend the summer, there are indoor and outdoor adventures for people of all ages. For more information on fun outings in Virginia, visit a local travel agency or check out one of the region’s newspapers or websites. A whole host of thrills awaits you in the cities of Central Virginia!
