This is for the folks who want to explore more of Virginia, but aren’t totally sure where to start or what to do.

Coming to you from your friends at RICtoday and NOVAtoday, here's our ultimate starter guide to a great Virginia road trip, although there’s no time frame, no required stops, and no fixed itinerary. We’re just here to spark inspiration.

Tulips at the Netherlands Carillon in Arlington. — Take in this stunning view of DC at the Netherlands Carillon in Arlington. | Photo by NOVAtoday

Northern Virginia/DC

Hello from Editor Ava at NOVAtoday. Where do I begin? Northern Virginia offers an incredible mix of waterfront activities, historic landmarks, and tasty dining experiences. And with Washington, DC just minutes away, residents and visitors have access to an even wider array of attractions, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

Grab a bite: Ruthie’s All-Day
Sip on a drink: Simona Cafe
Must-see spots:
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An aerial photo of downtown Winchester. — Greetings from Winchester. | Photo via Virginia Is For Lovers

Winchester

This historic city in the Shenandoah Valley is known for its Civil War history, vibrant downtown, and beautiful natural surroundings. If you are strategic with your road trip timing, you might want to plan around the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival.

Grab a bite: Bonnie’s Souther Market & Bakery
Sip on a drink: Vibrissa Beer
Must-see spot: Old Town Winchester
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Scenic rolling hills of Shenandoah National Park. — Take in breathtaking views across the Shenandoah Valley. | Photo by NOVAtoday

Shenandoah National Park

Take the scenic drive and feel free to make spontaneous small-town stops along the way. Find your way to Shenandoah National Park for 200,000+ acres of nature trails, waterfalls, camping sites, mountain views, and stargazing sites.

Grab a bite: Melissa’s Sweet Tea + Sliders
Sip on a drink: Try a blackberry milkshake from a Wayside stop on Skyline Drive
Must-see spot: Blue Ridge Parkway
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Buildings and railroad tracks in the city of Roanoke. — Don't miss this city in the Blue Ridge Mountains. | Photo via Flickr

Roanoke

This city is set in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its outdoor recreation, vibrant arts scene, and iconic Mill Mountain Star. Roanoke also boasts a rich railroad heritage, a historic downtown market district, and easy access to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway.

Grab a bite: The Hatch
Sip on a drink: Bloom Restaurant & Wine Bar
Must-see spot:
- Virginia Museum of Transportation
- Mill Mountain Star
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Blacksburg

Best known as the home of Virginia Tech, this city combines a lively college-town feel with a wide range of attractions, activities, and experiences. The area offers abundant natural beauty to explore, complemented by a vibrant and historic downtown district.

Grab a bite: Benny’s 'Virginia Slice'
Sip on a drink: Rising Silo Brewing
Must-see spot: Hahn Horticulture Garden
- If you have an extra 30 minutes or so, we highly recommend the Cascade Falls Trail
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Pit stop: Pulaski

Take an hour, a day, or a night to detour into 400 acres of Blue Ridge scenery. Rent bikes, book a campsite, or plan a quick hike around Gatewood Park and Reservoir.

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People standing on a bridge on the Virginia Creeper Trail. — Bring your bikes for a weekend trip to the Virginia Creeper Trail. | Photo via Flickr

Abingdon

If you can add another leg to your trip, we recommend this nature haven in Southwest Virginia, where the tea is sweet, Appalachian tradition runs deep, and natural beauty is everywhere. Take up a new or already-loved hobby in biking, fishing, hiking, or touring the town.

Grab a bite: The Girl and the Raven
Editor’s pick: When in the realm of Pal’s fast food, get Pal’s
Sip on a drink: The Tasting Room, Nicewonder Vineyards
Must-see spot/Must do: Virginia Creeper Trail
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A canoe on the water at Occoneechee State Park. — Go canoeing at this state park. | Photo via Flickr

Clarksville

This is the only lakeside town in Virginia, making it a great spot for anyone who loves the outdoors — the perfect stop to get some fresh air on your road trip.

Grab a bite: Lake Country Tavern
Sip on a drink: Buggs Island Brewing Company
Must-see spot: Occoneechee State Park
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A boardwalk and the ocean in Virginia Beach during sunset. — Take a relaxing break at the beach during your road trip. | Photo via Flickr

Virginia Beach

Stop for a mainstay on the beach or linger longer to get to know the small businesses and community members that make up this vacation-ready coastal town.

Grab a bite: Orion’s Roof
Sip on a drink: Waterman’s Surfside Grill
Must-see spot: Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
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Elise walking through a gallery at the Chrysler Art Museum. — Tour the Chrysler in Norfolk. | Photo via RICtoday

Pit stop: Norfolk

For an artsy and educational excursion, visit this waterfront city for the Chrysler Museum of Art or the Hermitage Museum and Gardens.

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The Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg. — This stop is for all of the history buffs. | Photo via Flickr

Williamsburg

Whether you visited Colonial Williamsburg in grade school or are gearing up for a first-time trip to the town, there’s a never-ending rotation of tours, festivals, historic demonstrations, and small businesses to keep the agenda fresh and engaging.

Grab a bite: Colonial Pancake House
Sip on a drink: Illy Cafe
Must-see: “Cry Witch”
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A boardwalk and the ocean in Virginia Beach during sunset. — Take a relaxing break at the beach during your road trip. | Photo via Flickr

Virginia Beach

Stop for a mainstay on the beach or linger longer to get to know the small businesses and community members that make up this vacation-ready coastal town.

Grab a bite: Orion’s Roof
Sip on a drink: Waterman’s Surfside Grill
Must-see spot: Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
Search rentals

Pit stop: Norfolk

For an artsy and educational excursion, visit this waterfront city for the Chrysler Museum of Art or the Hermitage Museum and Gardens.

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