The state of Virginia is on the southern Atlantic Coast of the US. Its diverse flora and fauna makes it a great holiday destination. Numerous places can be visited in and around Virginia.
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Known as the Commonwealth of Virginia, the state was originally dominated by the Native Americans. Permanent European settlement happened with the establishment of Jamestown in 1607, which was initiated by the English colonists.
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It is often called the Old Dominion and sometimes the Mother of Presidents, because it is the birthplace of eight US presidents, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe.
This state was also one of the thirteen colonies that joined the American Revolutionary War to gain independence from Great Britain.
There are many places in this state that are worth visiting and hence, it may get a little difficult trying to decide what to see and what not. However, wherever you go, there will be abundance of nature and pleasant people waiting to welcome you.
Places of Interest in Virginia
If you are planning to visit this place, make sure that you don't miss these top five destinations. These five places should be there in your itinerary during the vacations.
Virginia's Explore Park
Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the top point of this park is a historic area. This 1,100 acre environmental and recreational park gives you the opportunity to explore three areas that depict the life in the state from 1000 A.D. to 1850 A.D.
Oatlands Plantation
One of the National Trust for Historic Preservation sites, the Oatlands Plantation was built in 1804. This place will give you a glimpse into the life of a nineteenth century working plantation as well as early twentieth century English style country houses.
While staying at the Oatlands Plantation, don't forget to step outside and visit the breathtakingly beautiful gardens. These gardens are replete with ornamental statues and connecting terraces.
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Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum
The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum has the world's finest collection of folk art. This 10,400 square feet museum exhibits different genres of paintings. It is also home to several periodic stoneware, musical instruments, and patriotic arts. You can also see early quilts and coverlets, and objects of mourning as you make your way through the museum.
Historic Jamestown
If you are a history fan, you will love the Historic Jamestown. You will get to see the first permanent English settlement, guided by a National Park Service ranger, who will take you through a walking tour of the original settlement.
Step back in time with a visit to the Jamestown Settlement. This 'living' museum offers new galleries and board replicas of the three ships that crossed the Atlantic ocean in 1607. You can also see real life archaeologists working hard to uncover the past.
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Virginia Living Museum
This museum offers a unique combination of nature that ranges from a zoological park all the way to a planetarium. The museum is an attraction for all nature lovers. You can experience the wonderful aroma and beautiful sights inside the Living Museum's botanical gardens. Don't forget to walk on the boardwalk that crosses the lake.
Keep your eyes open to witness the wildlife you will find in the river. You would also get to see otters and bald eagles. You can also visit Charleston, famous for its numerous museums dedicated to American Civil War. You can go to Beckley to see the New Gorge National River, and Wheeling, the site of the last battle of The American Revolution in 1782.
Best Time to Visit
Virginia has a very erratic weather with moderate precipitation all over the year. You can make a visit in late spring, i.e., May, June, or late summer to enjoy the beach life. Visiting around June to September will give you a chance to enjoy the Virginia Wine Festival. However, the months from July to September can be unbearably hot.
Remember, this is just a fraction of what you can do in this state. So, take time out of your daily routine, and experience the wonderful places this state has to offer.