It’s easy to feel cabin fever while the COVID pandemic has stolen much of your travel bug this past year. Many of us are itching to get in the car and just go. Whether a day trip or a long weekend, Virginia and the surrounding areas offer a little bit of something for everyone. There is the great outdoors, something for the history buff, and even scenic beach escapes just hours away.
Below are several ideas for planning the perfect get-away from the 757:
Corolla, Outer Banks
Just south of the NC/VA border is Corolla , one of the most northern points of the Outer Banks. There are so many fun activities to explore for the entire family. Gaze at the wild horses, enjoy a beach day, and even explore the Currituck Lighthouse. For our history and architect buffs, try the historic Whalehead Mansion. Set on 39 pristine acres along the Currituck Sound in Historic Corolla Park, Whalehead is a beautifully restored 1920s-era Art Nouveau-style mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Hungry for a bite to eat? Corolla is known for its Carolina style BBQ and seasonal seafood. Currituck is also home to two vineyards and a popular microbrewery.
Cape Charles, Eastern Shore
A hop, skip, and a jump away form Norfolk, up the Eastern Shore is the quaint town of Cape Charles. This is a great place to escape bustling Norfolk and enjoy the best of coastal Virginia. Favorite attractions include: Cape Charles Brewing Co., Bay Creek Golf Club, Kiptopeke State Park, and numerous water and fishing sport ventures for the outdoorsy type. During the summer grab a scoop or two from Brown Dog Ice Cream or cool down with a cider from Buskey Cider on the Bay. If you’re hungry, grab a slice from DeadRise Pies or sample the catch of the day from the many local seafood joints.
Williamsburg
A short drive up 64 will land you in Colonial Williamsburg. This is a must visit for the history buff in your family. Journey back in time to the founding of our country and the early politics of the state of Virginia. Walk around and enjoy the historic demonstrations from butter churning and colonial era children’s games and everything in between. Be sure to visit around Halloween for the ghost tours and take a walk around Christmas to enjoy the lights and ambiance of the holiday season. If you seek thrill, Busch Gardens is located within miles of Williamsburg. Perhaps, some retail therapy at the Williamsburg Outlets will catch your fancy.
Chincoteague Island
Though she be small, she is mighty. Don’t let the small island of Chincoteague fool you, there is so much to discover. From boat tours, camping, and biking, Chincoteague is the perfect place to unplug and wind down. During a hot summer day, nothing is better than a cone full of Mr. Whippy, the soft serve ice cream parlor that has been around since 1991. Keep an eye out for the wild pony swim. Due to COVID the event has been cancelled for this year, but check back next year! Wednesday July 28, 2021 will mark the 96th year of Chincoteague’s annual Pony Swim. The Chincoteague Pony Swim was made famous by Marguerite Henry’s “Misty of Chincoteague”. Tens of thousands of spectators from around the world gather on Chincoteague Island each year to watch this annual tradition.
Charlottesville
A combination of beautiful mountains, a quaint college town, and a growing food and beverage scene, Charlottesville is a great way to escape the 757. Charlottesville truly has something for everyone. Go apple picking at Carter Mountain, visit historic Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, or sip a glass of delicious wine from the numerous award-winning vineyards and wineries. Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is rooted in rich traditions that combine history, outdoor exploration, and plenty of family friendly fun. Just minutes from Charlottesville is Wintergreen Resort for our snow loving friends! Take a float down the James River during the hot summer months at James River Reeling and Rafting where you can pack a cooler that will get it’s own innertube.
Do you have any other destinations we should add our list? Comment below!