Attractions Nearby Virginia Beach, Day Trips and Excursions

(Virginia Beach, Virginia - VA, USA)

The state of Virginia stands directly to north of the US state North Carolina and also borders the District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, Tennessee and West Virginia. Especially close to Virginia Beach are the attractions of Chesapeake, which are perfect for a day trip.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is also of note, as are the neighboring Cape Henry lighthouses and the port city of Norfolk, which are all just a short drive from Virginia Beach itself. Attractions further afield include Richmond and the Shenandoah National Park, along with North Carolina's twin cities of Durham and Raleigh.

Charlottesville

Located within Albemarle County and some 179 miles / 288 km to the northwest of Virginia Beach, the independent town of Charlottesville is perhaps best known for its acclaimed university - the University of Virginia (UVA), as well as being the home of former US presidents - Thomas Jefferson (1743 to 1826), James Madison (1751 to 1836) and James Monroe (1758 to 1831). The attractions of Charlottesville are varied, with many relating to its rich history and famed Virginian cuisine. In particular, look out for the much-visited Monticello House (resident of Thomas Jefferson), the Ash Lawn-Highland (residence of James Monroe), the Downtown Mall and its Virginia Discovery Museum, and the weekly summer 'Fridays After Five' concerts.

Chesapeake

The lively city of Chesapeake lies within easterly Virginia and is just 24 miles / 39 km to the southwest of Virginia Beach, meaning that it has become a very popular day trip destination. Tourists arriving here for the day often head straight for the expansive Chesapeake Arboretum, which covers almost 50 acres / 20 hectares and boasts free admission. The Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal is another very notable attraction and connects the Albemarle Sound with Chesapeake Bay.

Durham

Address: North Carolina (NC)
Standing within North Carolina and 205 miles / 330 km to the southwest of Virginia Beach, Durham offers a surprising medieval history, although is today primarily a university city, being the location of the huge Duke University campus. The attractions of Durham are often associated with its affluent past resident - Washington Duke, who established the American Tobacco Company and brought much wealth to the city. Durham's Sarah P. Duke Gardens are not to be missed. A visit to the Duke Chapel and also to the North Carolina Central University Art Museum both come highly recommended.

Norfolk

Around 18 miles / 29 km to the west of Virginia Beach, the city of Norfolk stands within the metropolitan area known as Hampton Roads. Norfolk is home to the biggest naval base on the planet and its waterfront Town Point Park is always a pleasant place to hang out. Sightseers are strongly advised to check out the Nauticus National Maritime Center, the Norfolk Botanical Garden, Virginia Zoo and the Chrysler Museum of Art.

Raleigh

Address: North Carolina (NC)
Just across the state border and in North Carolina, Raleigh is situated approximately 202 miles / 325 km to the southwest of Virginia Beach and has become a popular excursion destination, although is really just a little too far to make day trips an attractive proposition. Raleigh is the state capital and as such, has many wonderful attractions to offer visiting tourists. The very best of these include the North Carolina State Capitol, the Mordecai Historic Park, the Historic Oak View County Park, the North Carolina Museum of History and also the Raleigh Museum of Art.

Richmond

The state capital of Richmond is to be found around 108 miles / 174 km to the northwest of Virginia Beach and is well connected by the I-64 Interstate east. Richmond has a strong Civil War heritage and still contains a number of historical attractions from that period, explained in detail at the National Battlefield Civil War Visitor Center. For the very best views of Richmond, head to the City Hall Observation Deck - and be sure to bring your camera. Also worth looking out for is the scenic Canal Walk, the Virginia State Capitol, the White House of the Confederacy, Maymont House, the Museum of Fine Arts and the very hands-on Science Museum.

Shenandoah National Park

An exceptionally beautiful park situated approximately 170 miles / 274 km northwest of Virginia Beach, the Shenandoah National Park is centered around Skyline Drive, which crosses the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. The Shenandoah National Park is at its very best in the spring and fall (autumn), and can become rather busy at peak times. Tourist information is available at the park's two visitor centers (Byrd and Dickie Ridge), while those who are planning a camping trip will find no less than five camping sites to chose from (Big Meadows, Dundo, Lewis Mountain, Loft Mountain and Mathews Arm). Further attractions at the Shenandoah National Park include endless hiking trails and some truly awesome waterfalls, such as the Lewis Falls, the Whiteoak Canyon, the Overall Run and the South River Falls.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: charge, applicable to types of vehicle or individuals, varies with peak or off-peak seasons