Virginia Bucket List: 201 Things to Do in the Old Dominion

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Get ready for your adventure to the Old Dominion with our ultimate Virginia bucket list.

From the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains to the sandy shores of the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor fun. 

And with its lovely small towns, cities, and attractions, the state draws visitors and locals with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern activities. 

To help you plan your visit, we curated a list of attractions and activities in Virginia waiting for you to try.

Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills or serene moments of tranquility, this guide has got you covered.

Our list of things to do in VA is sectioned by towns or cities where they are located so it’s easier for you to organize your itinerary.

For more places to visit in VA, read our guide to things to do in Roanoke.

Free Virginia Bucket List

Alexandria Bucket List

Alexandria features historic streets that’ll make you feel like you’re strolling through a movie set. 

Famous for its Old Town, get ready to wander along brick-paved sidewalks and be transported back in time as you admire the beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings.

You’ll also find cool boutiques, fascinating museums, and nice restaurants in the area.

• Go on a walking food tour.
• Get spooked during this ghost tour.
• Explore the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
• Visit the George Washington Masonic National Memorial.
• Eat at Joe Theismann’s Restaurant.
• Wander around the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum.
• Learn about Alexandria’s history at Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum.
• See what is happening at The Little Theater of Alexandria.
• Enjoy the food at Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub.
• Browse the Alexandria Farmers Market.
• Try the beers at Port City Brewing Company.
• Discover the wildlife at Huntley Meadows Park.
• Check out the Woodlawn and Pope-Leighey House.

Charlottesville Bucket List

Located amidst rolling hills near the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville is a haven for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts. 

From exploring outdoor trails to sipping on fine wines, get a taste of Charlottesville’s delightful offerings and make sure to add them to your list of must-try activities in Virginia.

• Bike the Rivanna Trails.
• Grab a tasty lunch at the Beer Run.
• Watch a show at The Paramount Theater.
• Take your kids to explore the Virginia Discovery Museum.
• Dine at Fleurie Restaurant.
• Burn off excess energy at Bounce-n-Play indoor playground.
• Create a masterpiece at The Glass Palette.
• Walk the Saunders-Monticello Trail.
• Wander around Monticello Gardens.
• Learn more about Thomas Jefferson and the 600 enslaved people he kept on his plantation, Monticello, including Sally Hemings who negotiated freedom for the kids she had with Jefferson.
• Visit Carter Mountain Orchard to pick your own apples or peaches when in season.
• Sample the wines at Blenheim Vineyards.
• Try the ciders served at Potter’s Craft Cider and catch a live band.

Chincoteague Bucket List

Welcome to Chincoteague, a charming island getaway located off Virginia’s Eastern Shore. 

This place is a great option for your outdoor activities in Virginia- from birdwatching at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, lounging on the sandy shores, watching wild ponies galloping freely, and more.

• Go on a boat cruise of the island and see wild ponies and other wildlife along the way.
• Spend the day exploring Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.
• Learn about local history at the Museum of Chincoteague.
• Enjoy beer tasting at Black Narrows Brewing.
• Enjoy a specialty taco from Pico Taqueria.
• Splash around at Maui Jack’s water park.
• Walk the Island Nature Trail.
• Visit Captain Timothy Hill House.
• Look out for the magical Chincoteague ponies.

Fairfax Bucket List

Located in the northern part of Virginia, Fairfax combines history and modernity.

Soak up the local culture, explore quaint neighborhoods, and get ready for some nice adventure in this town. 

• Take a tour of the historic Blenheim site.
• Have fun at the Bonds Escape Room.
• Check out what concerts and events are happening at the Eagle Bank Arena.
• Eat at Oh George! Tables and Taphouse.
• Stroll through the Royal Lake Park.
• Take your kids to the interactive Children’s Science Center Lab.
• Incorporate a little self-care into your day at Malee Thai Massage and Bodywork.

Fredericksburg Bucket List

Step into history in Fredericksburg, a city steeped in rich heritage and located between Washington, DC, and Richmond. 

Explore battlefields that witnessed significant moments in North American history or wander through streets lined with unique shops and eateries.

• Learn about the civil war at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park.
• Walk around the Fredericksburg National Cemetery.
• Try the award-winning spirits at A. Smith Bowman Distillery.
• Learn about medicine in the 18^th century at Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop.
• Eat at Sedona Taphouse.
• Check out George Washington’s mother’s house, The Mary Washington House.
• Discover the history of the area at the Fredericksburg Area Museum.
• Spend an afternoon exploring Alum Spring Park.
• Walk the Virginia Civil War Trail.
• Check out what events are happening at the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference Center.
• Enjoy a wine tasting at Bacchus Winery.

Leesburg Bucket List

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find yourself in the town of Leesburg, located in Northern Virginia’s picturesque Loudoun County. 

With its classic architecture, quaint boutiques, and scenic countryside, Leesburg offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. 

• Enjoy year-round skiing at Inside Ski Training Center.
• Visit George C. Marshall’s Dodona Manor.
• Find a new favorite wine at Stone Tower Winery.
• Explore the historic downtown area.
• Stop for a beer, food, and live entertainment at Vanish Brewery.
• Take a nice walk-through of Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve.
• Put your skills to the test at Escape Room LoCo.
• Eat at Tuscarora Mill.
• Let loose at Hogback Mountain Paintball.

Luray Caverns Bucket List

Looking for fascinating places to see in Virginia?

Located around the Shenandoah Valley, the town of Luray, VA is known for the Luray Caverns, a beautiful cave featuring stunning geographical formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and mirrored pools.

See below the activities and attractions you can find in the area.

• See the underground stone formations in Luray Caverns.
• Work your way through the Garden Maze.
• Dine at Triple Crown BBQ.
• Visit the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum.
• Sample wine and whisky at River Hill Wine and Spirits.
• Check out the Dukes of Hazards Museum in Cooter’s Luray.
• Get your adrenaline pumping on the Bear Mountain Ziplines.
• Climb to the top of Stony Man Mountain.
• Explore Lewis Spring Falls.

Lynchburg Bucket List

Located in the central region of Virginia, Lynchburg is a city nestled between the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the banks of the James River. 

Its strategic location provides locals and visitors with easy access to natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and scenic landscapes. 

• Visit Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest.
• Explore the Amazement Square with your kids.
• Walk through one of the oldest cemeteries in the USA.
• Stroll along the Riverwalk Trail.
• Check out the Point of Honor Plantation.
• Learn about the history of the area at the Lynchburg Museum.

Manassas Bucket List

Known for its significant role in the Civil War, Manassas offers a glimpse into America’s past through its well-preserved battlefields and museums. 

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history and captivating stories that make this place worthy to be added to your Virginia to-do list.

• Visit the Manassas National Battlefield Park where two major battles during the Civil War were fought.
• Walk the Deep Cut Loop Trail.
• Spend the day at SplashDown Waterpark.
• See what shows are happening at Hylton Performing Arts Center.
• Have some fun at Autobahn Indoor Speedway and Events.
• Grab a beer at KO Distilling.
• Check out the Manassas Museum.

Middleburg Bucket List

Middleburg, Virginia, is a small town located in the countryside of Loudoun County. 

Surrounded by rolling hills, sprawling estates, and lush farmland, check out the activities you can do here.

• Sample the wine at 50 West Vineyards.
• Pick up a sweet treat from the Little Apple Pastry Shop.
• Try the ciders at Mount Defiance Cidery and Distillery.
• Check out the National Sporting Library and Museum.
• Go ziplining with Empower Adventure.

Norfolk Bucket List

Norfolk is located along the stunning Chesapeake Bay in southeastern Virginia. 

Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront or immersing yourself in the exhibits of its museums, Norfolk is the ultimate destination for some of the best things to do in Virginia.

• Relax with a dinner buffet cruise.
• Have fun on a guided bike and pub crawl.
• Explore the Chrysler Museum of Art.
• Dine at Freemason Abbey Restaurant.
• Take a tour of the Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus.
• Visit the MacArthur Memorial Museum.
• Eat at Grain.
• See what plays are happening at Virginia Stage Company at the Wells Theater.
• Dine at Saltine.
• Relax at Town Point Park.
• Paint your own pottery at the Mermaid Factory.
• Bike the Elizabeth River Trail.
• Catch a fly ball at Harbor Park.
• Wander around the Norfolk Botanical Garden, which was created by 220 American Africans in 1938, and hosts annual Native American events throughout the year.

Richmond Bucket List

Get ready to explore the state’s capital, Richmond.

Immerse yourself in the city’s architecture, diverse culinary offerings, and museums. 

• Take a private city tour.
• Go to the Virginia Holocaust Museum.
• Visit the Edgar Allan Poe Museum.
• Take a tour of the historic Maymont estate.
• Feel the hairs on the back of your neck stand up with a haunted walking tour by US Ghost Adventures.
• Explore the Hollywood Cemetery.
• Partake in a walking food tour.
• Register for a scavenger hunt adventure.
• Explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
• Dine at Amuse Restaurant.
• See the Confederate War Memorial Chapel.
• Explore James River Park on a guided tour.
• Check out Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens.
• Visit the State Capitol where you find the Virginia Civil Rights Memorial.
• Eat at Bookbinder’s Seafood and Steakhouse.
• Stroll along the Canal.
• Spend a few hours at the Science Museum of Virginia.
• Take the kids to the Children’s Museum.
• Black History Museum and Cultural Center celebrates Black Americans in the state.
• Dine at The Savory Grain.
• Eat at Legend Brewing Company.
• Taste the hand-crafted ciders at Blue Bee Cider.
• Check out the Richmond Raceway.
• Eat at SB’s Love Shack.
• Explore Belle Isle.

Shenandoah National Park Bucket List

Prepare to be enchanted by the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park, nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. 

This pristine wilderness is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking vistas, cascading waterfalls, and an extensive network of hiking trails. 

Read our Shenandoah National Park visitors guide for helpful tips before your visit.

• Take a self-guided driving tour and enjoy the views on Skyline Drive.
• Walk on the famous Appalachian Trail.
• Relax at the Elkwallow Picnic Area.
• Test your endurance hiking Old Rag Mountain.
• Check out Dark Hollow Falls.
• Hike the easier trails at Bearfence Mountain.
• Rent a kayak or canoe from Shenandoah River Adventures.
• Have a unique experience with Wild Guyde Adventures.

You may also like our guide to the best state parks in VA.

Williamsburg Bucket List

Step back in time as you visit the city of Williamsburg, located in southeastern Virginia’s Tidewater region. 

From exploring meticulously restored buildings in the area to going on interactive tours with local guides, Williamsburg offers an experience that is sure to spark the interest of history buffs and curious minds.

• Learn about the rich history of Williamsburg in this walking tour.
• Learn about the darker side of Williamsburg with a drink in hand on a haunted pub crawl.
• Enjoy a guided walking tour in an 18^th-century costume.
• Explore the Colonial Williamsburg Museum.
• Start your day with breakfast from Capitol Pancake House.
• Wander around the Governor’s Palace.
• Delight your taste buds with a guided walking food tour.
• Take the Colonial Conspiracy tour.
• Spend a few hours at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum.
• Make a splash at Water Country USA water park.
• Sample the sine at Williamsburg Winery.
• Explore the Jamestown Settlement.
• Try the brews at Alewerks Brewing Company.
• Do a little shopping at Williamsburg Premium Outlets.
• Connect with nature at York River State Park.
• Walk the trails of Freedom Park.
• Let the kids burn off some energy at Veterans Park.
• Browse the Williamsburg Farmers Market.

Winchester Bucket List

Situated in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, Winchester is a haven for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers. 

With its historical landmarks, cozy cafes, and proximity to interesting recreational opportunities, this place deserves a spot on your VA bucket list.

• Take a tour of Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters.
• Check out the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley.
• Visit the musician, Patsy Cline’s Historic House.
• Learn some history at the Kernstown Battlefield and Pritchard House.
• Walk around the Stonewall Confederate Cemetery.
• Have some fun at the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum.
• Dine at Violino Ristorante Italiano.
• Explore Third Winchester Battlefield Park.
• Sample the ciders at Winchester Ciderworks.
• Check out what shows are happening at the Winchester Little Theater.
• Eat at Bonnie Blue.
• Enjoy a stroll through the Abrams Creek Wetlands Preserve.
• Hunt for a new treasure at Blue Peacock Antiques.

Virginia Beach Bucket List

Looking for activities to add to your Virginia summer bucket list?

Get ready to soak up the sun and experience the coastal beauty of Virginia Beach, located along the Atlantic Ocean in southeastern VA.

Among the many experiences, this beach destination offers are miles of sandy shores, a lively boardwalk, and a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.

• Stroll along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
• See some dolphins on a stand-up paddleboard tour.
• Or a sunset kayak tour.
• Explore the First Landing State Park.
• Visit Cape Henry Lighthouse.
• Enjoy a cocktail at Tarnished Truth Distilling Co.
• Eat at Rudee’s Restaurant and Cabana Bar.
• Check out what is happening at Neptune’s Park, and check out the King Neptune Statue.
• Spend the day having fun at Ocean Breeze Waterpark.
• Go on a tour of the Military Aviation Museum.
• Soak up the sun at Sandbridge Beach.
• Explore the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
• Wander around False Cape State Park.
• Spend an afternoon at the Hunt Club Farm.
• Have a picnic at Mount Trashmore Park.
• Take a tour of the Ferry Plantation House.
• Burn off some energy with your kids at the Bounce House.
• Test your skills at the Breakout Games Escape Room.
• Relax at the Flowering Almond Spa.
• Enjoy a sunset at Chic’s Beach.
• Explore the trails at Bayville Farms Park.
• Find a little peace at Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. Association for Research and Enlightenment.
• Visit the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Eat at Zoe’s Steak and Seafood.
• Learn about the area’s history at the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum.
• Visit the Norwegian Lady Statue.
• Have fun at Motor World Amusement Park.
• Sample the beer at Reaver Beach Brewing.
• See the Virginia Beach Law Enforcement Memorial.
• Walk through the Vibe Creative District.

Not city specific but there are a number of pow wows hosted by Virginia Tribal Nations, check out the following websites for dates: Chickahominy, Cheroenhaka (Nottoway), Eastern Chickahominy, Mattaponi, Monacan Indian Nation, and Nansemond and ICT for more on Indigenous History in Viriginia.

Final Thoughts

So if you’re wondering what to do in Virginia, there are a ton of activities and destinations that are waiting for you to experience.

We hope our list has inspired you to plan your next trip- and if there’s something you want to share from your visit or a favorite spot, feel free to share it in the comments below.