George Washington Birthplace National Monument
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The George Washington Birthplace National Monument isnt the former presidents home, as that was destroyed in 1779 in a fire.
But this spot in Virginia where the first American president was born back in 1732 has since been sufficiently recreated to mimic the style of his upper-class home, stuffed with interesting period furnishings.
Within the grounds, you can visit the Memorial House and the Kitchen House, both of which are staffed by reenactors dressed in period outfits to give you a taste of old Virginia.
Walk around to the Colonial Herb and Flower Garden to learn about plants from the era, or head to the Colonial Living Farm to check out traditional farming methods and meet a pair of Red Devon oxen directly descended from those owned by Washington himself.
Another one of the things to see in the George Washington Birthplace National Monument is the Visitors Center, which hosts artifacts from the original home and a 15-minute film that discusses the Washington family.
Theres also the cemetery outside, home to 32 graves of Washingtons family.
Address: 1732 Popes Creek Rd, Colonial Beach, VA 22443, United States
National Museum Of The Marine Corps
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Similar to the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, the National Museum of the Marine Corps also honors the Marine Corps, and its one of the most popular places to see in Virginia and has been since its 2006 launching.
More than 500,000 visitors come by here annually, making it among Virginias most loved places for tourists.
Visiting and rotating exhibits make the rounds of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, but some exhibits are fixed, including the Making Marines, Legacy Walk, Defending A New Nation, World War I, World War II, Vietnam War, and Korean War exhibits.
As part of the 135-acre Marine Corps Heritage Center, it does its part in telling the long-known tale of the marine corps, their bravery, and their contributions.
Address: 18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Triangle, VA 22172, United States
Eastern Shore Of Virginia
This stunning area of Virginias Eastern Shore, prominent with its history and nature, stretches for 70 miles and is situated between the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The things you do and see here are aplenty and it is a nature lovers paradise!
ESVA can take you back in time with small fishing villages and many historical buildings.
The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, where the annual Pony Swim and Auction takes place, is one of the most popular and most visited destinations on the Eastern Shore.
Also, Assateague Island, stretching 37 miles long, is prized for its beaches and for being just a great place where you can watch wild ponies grazing and feeding on the marsh grasses.
Be sure not to miss Cape Charles and Onancock two of the most charming small towns in VA!
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Kayak In Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a bird lovers heaven. Kayaking through the backwaters is a relaxing experience away from all the hustle and bustle. We booked a guided tour with Surf & Adventure where we launched from the dock at their shop for an hour-and-a-half paddle through grasslands and channels.
It features more than 9000 acres of refuge and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon if you want to get away from the busy beach and bask in the tranquility of nature.
We spotted bald eagles and sea birds during our hour-long and relaxing trip through the National Wildlife Refuge while taking in the view. The tour ended at the restaurant Blue Petes, a local favorite specializing in seafood dishes.
- Surf and Adventure address: 577 Sandbridge Road Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Memorial Day Weekend Oceanfront Concert Series
May 28 – 30, 2021 from 7 pm – 11 pm
Location: 17th Street Park and 24th Street Park at the Oceanfront
At two locations right off the boardwalk, you’re sure to run into a good show! Virginia Beach is known for their nightly concerts, but the pandemic definitely slowed that down. But this year, we’re starting to see more musical events pop up!
The performers at this concert event are local and regional favorites, and will be different genres for each performer.
Location: 600 Nevan Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
So many concerts at Elevation 27 in May! Here’s the list:
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Clifton Homes Tour Clifton Tba
The Annual Clifton Homes Tour offers guided tours of four elegant homes and two historic churches. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the charming town of Clifton and visit Fairfax County’s first winery.
Even if your favorite festival is canceled this year, there are still plenty of 2022 May events to help you celebrate this beautiful month. Check back later in May for our updated guide to in Northern VA.
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Nd Annual Community School Strawberry Festival
Elmwood ParkOne of the premier family festivals of the spring season in Virginias Blue Ridge, the Strawberry Festival returns for its 42nd year, serving as an event that benefits the Community School. There will be local artisans and vendors, live entertainment, and, of course, lots of delicious strawberry dishes, including the popular homemade Strawberry Shortcake.
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Fredco Eats Restaurant Week
Join us as we showcase and celebrate Frederick County, Virginia restaurants during the inaugural FredCo Eats Restaurant Week! Restaurants around Frederick County will be offering special menus and pricing. Follow along throughout February as we get to know our local restaurants! Content features at FredCoEats.com will showcase local cuisines, our favorite neighborhood hangouts, creative chefs, … Read more
Assateague And Chincoteague Islands
The 38 mile long barrier island of Assateague lies to the east of Chincoteague Island.
The island is partly located in Maryland and partly within Virginia and is a protected site serving as a wildlife sanctuary.
Chincoteague itself offers 14,000 acres of shoreline as well as forests, marshes and wetlands which provide an environment suitable for a wide variety of wildlife.
The islands most notable animal residents are the wild ponies found here. As well as wildlife spotting, the island is a great location for outdoor pursuits including hiking, swimming, kayaking or fishing to name only a few.
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Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
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Nature nuts take note Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is an amazing location for those who wish to see the Chincoteague ponies.
An endangered species unique to this barrier island, the feral ponies are largely stunted in size, thanks to their poor diet.
The Virginia half of Assateague Island has a lot more to offer than just endangered horses, however.
You can check out the shipwrecks scattered across the islands shores via snorkeling, or go horseback riding if you rather not drive through in over-sand vehicles.
If you have a valid fishing license, then why not go fishing, clamming, and crabbing too?
Visitors dropping by this island to go site seeing will also find plenty of wildlife to spot.
The island is home to animals such as fox squirrels, red foxes, brown pelicans, merlins, and white-tailed dear.
Other endangered animals you may spot include the likes of the piping plover and sika deer as well!
Address: 8231 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, United States
Virginia Museum Of Contemporary Art
One doesnt usually go to a museum when visiting a beach town, but the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art is a great afternoon trip. If you are interested in expanding your modern art knowledge, this is a superb stop. The museum fosters awareness, exploration, and understanding of the significant art of our time. Exhibitions change regularly.
When we visited the exhibit Mindful: Exploring Mental Health Through Art was the cornerstone display where exhibitions used art to showcase insights and opportunities to change lives. It was moving and inspirational all at once.
For information on current exhibitions visit MOCA Address2200 Parks Avenue Virginia Beach, VA 23451
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Things To Do For The History Buff
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Climb the Cape Henry LighthouseTake a trip down to Fort Story to climb the old Cape Henry Lighthouse, commissioned back in 1792. At the top, youll enjoy a 360°-view of the ocean and Virginia Beach in the lantern room.
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Tour the Ferry Plantation HouseExperience both history and the paranormal with a tour of the centuries-old Ferry Plantation House, featuring tales of everyones favorite witch of Pungo.
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Attend the SGK Gun Show Take part in a tradition as old as America at the SGK Gun Show. View, buy, sell, and trade a variety of shooting and sporting goods at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.
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Check Out Antique Cars at the Grand Nationals Love old cars? Dont miss the beautiful array of antique cars at AACAs Grand Nationals. Hosted at the Founders Inn and Spa, theres a whole schedule full of automobile and Hampton Roads-themed activities.
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Party with Flying Proms at the Military Aviation Museum Bring your family and a picnic to the Flying Proms, a patriotic concert and air show located at the Military Aviation Museum in Pungo. Full of food, fun, and fireworks!
Edith J Carrier Arboretum
The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is among the top things to do in Virginia.
It is located in Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg, on the campus of James Madison University, and is one of the few dog-friendly locations in Virginia that you can visit.
It is both a botanical garden and an arboretum.
Taking up 125 acres of land, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretums lined with a forest of Oak-Hickory, flowers, plants, and more.
Throughout the area, you can walk on paved paths, take in the cool, rustic atmosphere, admire statues, sit on well-crafted seats, and feed the ducks.
Fern Valley displays some relaxing New York fern, and the April Walk Daffodil Garden is perfect for those who cant get enough of those fun plants.
There is also a planting area for experimentation that houses hybrid azaleas, an herb garden, and even a wetlands garden.
Address: 780 University Blvd, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, United States
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Bike To Work Day May 20
Celebrate bicycling as a clean, fun, and healthy way to get to work. The DC region’s 21st Bike to Work Day celebration features pit stops throughout D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. The first 15,000 people to register and bike to a pit stop will receive a free T-shirt. Follow the link to register.
Explore area bike trails with our guides:
Go Kayaking Around Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Virginia Beach isnt all about lounging around the sandy beach. If you prefer something a bit more adventurous, take a drive 30 minutes to South Virginia Beach, where youll find the beautiful Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This is a prime spot to do some kayaking in a truly tranquil setting!
As you paddle around the 9,000-acre freshwater refuge, youll have the chance to spot a range of wildlife, including birds, fish, and even snakes. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty that is Back Bay.
Its possible to embark on kayaking tours of the refuge. Surf & Adventure Co. offers a few different tours, ranging from their Back Bay Eco Tours to their Lunch Box Tours.
For something extra-special, their Blue Petes Tour takes you on a sunset paddle trip through Back Bay Wildlife Refuge. At the end of your tour, youll paddle your way to Blue Petes restaurant, where youll enjoy a surf and turf dinner overlooking the water.
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Arts History And Old Fashioned Fun
The performing arts scene in the Winchester community is incredibly vibrant. Shenandoah Universitys Conservatory hosts events featuring both students and world-renowned performers in dance, music, opera, symphony orchestra, theatre, and more. Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre also produces several Broadway musicals every summer.
If you are interested in history, check out our annual Civil War Weekend and African American History Day. We have numerous educational programs and tours at our museums, battlefields, and historic sites too.
We are also home to the only drive-in theater in the DC Metro area! The retro 1956 Family Drive-In Theatre not only shows double features but also hosts family-friendly events just south of Winchester in Stephens City.
Plan Your Trip To Virginia Beach With These Resources
Travel Planning Resources
Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.
Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner
Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor
Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO.
Travel Insurance: Don’t leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:
- World Nomads – Digital Nomads or Frequent Travelers.
- Allianz – Occasional Travelers.
- Medjet – Global air medical transport and travel security.
Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.
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Spring Farm Day Frying Pan Farm Park May 7 Canceled
Enjoy a day of family fun at Frying Pan Farm with hands-on farm activities like cow and goat milking, crafts, games, and puppet shows. You can also meet the baby farm animals up close and watch sheep shearing and antique farm equipment demonstrations. Walk-ins are welcome admission is $12 at the door, $10 in advance, kids under 2 free. 10:00 3:00.
Abandoned Virginia Renaissance Faire
Fun things to do in VA often include exploring abandoned spaces, right?
Medieval nerds would be familiar with renaissance faires all across the country, and Virginia is no exception to the rule.
But just what happened to the ren-faire activities of the original Virginia Renaissance Faire?
The travel time, climate, and swampy land, as it turned out, was not kind to this particular Faire.
Its owners had shut it down after two seasons of repeat losses and left the replicas to rot where they stand while the moved the rest of the props elsewhere.
These days, the Faire is carried out in a different location under the same name but its worth paying the original location a visit, just to have a peek.
Be aware that its all built on private property, however, so its really something to be admired from a distance.
Address: 5621 Courthouse Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551, United States
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Wednesday Night Disco Mountain Bike Race Series
Mill Mountain ParkTake part in one of Roanokes grooviest mountain biking events with the return of the annual Wednesday Night Disco Race Series! The series will be held May 11, May 18, and May 25 in Mill Mountain Park, with check-in taking place at the Discovery Center before heading to the Riverland Road Parking lot for the start of the race.
There will be categories for beginner and expert-level riders, and disco costumes are strongly encouraged.
Top 59 Things To Do In Virginia Beach This Spring
Wondering what to do during April, May, and June in Virginia Beach? Though peak season for beachgoing starts on Memorial Day, there are plenty of ways things to do in the spring around Virginia Beach!
There are lots of reasons we love Virginia Beach, but one of the biggest is that there is never a shortage of adventures waiting for those who look. Here are the best things you can do around Virginia Beach over the next few months!
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Washington, D.C.: Many of Virginia’s most popular tourist destinations complement the historic and political attractions in and around Washington, D.C., a metropolis which has spread well into its neighboring states. In addition to iconic landmarks like the Capitol Building, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial, the District of Columbia is home to some of the most legendary museums in the world, the Smithsonian Museums. This makes the nation’s capital one of the most visited family destinations, and tourists can find a wide variety of places to stay in and around D.C.
: The small coastal state of sits on the other side of the District of Columbia, bordering the capital city on three sides and sharing a long border with Virginia. It is home to the city of Baltimore, known for its extensive museums, historic landmarks, and cultural riches. Nearby, you will also find the smaller but charming Annapolis, which is full of things to see and do, from historic sites to spectacular sailing.
Delaware: Also within a reasonable drive from northern Virginia, the tiny state of Delaware provides a refreshing retreat along the Atlantic. Delaware is well known for its maritime history and cultural attractions, but equally popular for its abundance of fine beaches, revered for their calm waters along the protected shores of Delaware Bay. As a result, the state has become a top summer vacation destination for families and couples, and offers a variety of excellent resorts.
Take A Trip To Chincoteague Island
Though small, this island packs a lot of punches to rival other larger islands on the East Coast. There are so many things to do in Chincoteague and it is one of my favorite places in Virginia!
Connected by a beach to Assateague Island, Chincoteague Island offers the chance to experience small-town life away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
You can hike or bike through the land that is mostly marshes and forests. You can also go on a boat cruise to get a perfect view of Chincoteague from the water.
A trip to Chincoteague is not complete without seeing the wild ponies or visiting the Assateague Lighthouse. If youre a space lover like me, you can also make a stop at the nearby Wallops Island Flight Facility!
Click here to check out some of our top picks for Airbnbs in Chincoteague.
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