Virginia

Destination information

The picturesque state of Virginia is endowed with incredible natural beauty and a fascinating history, as well as exciting theme parks and amazing shopping! First settled by the British in 1607, Virginia has been involved in nearly every major milestone in early US history, from the Revolution to the Civil War and beyond. Historic towns include Fredericksburg, Williamsburg, Richmond and Manassas where you'll find Colonial and antebellum architecture, historic national battlefield parks, and lively war re-enactments!

Stretching from the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley, to the beautiful beaches of the Atlantic and Chesapeake Bay, Virginia is anoutdoor-lovers paradise. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, climbing, swimming, sailing, rafting or horse riding, you'll be spoilt for choice throughout Virginia. Roanoke is the Capital of the Blue Ridge - gateway to this spectacular mountain range, and a beautiful and lively town to boot!

But Virginia isn't all old buildings and beautiful countryside. Outside Williamsburg is Busch Gardens - Virginia's largest theme park with some of the most thrilling roller coasters in the world. There is a monorail to the Anheuser-Busch Factory where you can do a tour and a tasting! Cool down at Water Country USA - the mid-Atlantics largest water park with over 30 rides. Near Richmond is Paramount Kings Dominion, which has 10 roller coasters and there's a huge water park nearby as well.

Shoppers will not be disappointed in Virginia either. Potomac Mills discount mall has over 300 shops, Charlottesville has a Downtown Mall and the City Market, Roanoke, Williamsburg and Richmond all have outlet malls outside town and traditional arts, crafts and antiques shops in the centre!

Eats & drinks

Virginia specialises in tasty, southern cooking - fried chicken, beans, coleslaw, hearty stews and barbecued pork are specialities, while on the eastern shores seafood is fresh and delicious.