Eastern Virginia Travel Guide

Explore the culturally-rich and historic destinations, stunning natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and transportation options in Eastern Virginia.


Introduction to Eastern Virginia

Eastern Virginia is a destination full of charm and history, natural beauty, and exciting outdoor adventures. This region is located in the southern part of Virginia, in the United States of America. The area boasts a fascinating past and an abundance of tourist attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages and interests.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Virginia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Colonial Williamsburg: A living history museum where visitors can experience life in a 18th-century Virginia village.
  • Monticello: The home of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • USS Wisconsin: A battleship museum that served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War.
  • Hampton University Museum: This is one of the oldest African American museums in the country and has a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and documents.

Natural Attractions of Eastern Virginia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Virginia Beach: Famous for its miles of oceanfront beaches and a vibrant boardwalk.
  • Shenandoah National Park: This park is a haven for hikers, bird-watchers, and nature enthusiasts and has over 500 miles of hiking trails.
  • Chincoteague Island: Famous for its wild horses, which are allowed to roam freely on the island.
  • Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge: A serene landscape of forests, wetlands, and waterways, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Virginia

  • Virginia Capital Trail: A 52-mile paved trail connecting Jamestown to downtown Richmond.
  • Mount Vernon Trail: A 17-mile trail that runs along the Potomac River from George Washington’s estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island.
  • James River Park System: A network of trails, parks, and historic sites, that runs along the James River, offering excellent hiking and biking opportunities.

Best Things to Do in Eastern Virginia: Activities and Tours

  • Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: A family-friendly attraction offering a glimpse into the deep sea world.
  • Busch Gardens Williamsburg: An amusement park with thrilling rides, shows, and attractions.
  • Virginia Wine Country: A beautiful region featuring more than 280 wineries and picturesque vineyards.
  • Ghost Tours of Colonial Williamsburg: A spine-chilling experience, where visitors can learn about the ghosts and legends of Colonial Williamsburg.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Virginia

Day Activities
Day 1 Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement
Day 2 Virginia Beach, Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Day 3 USS Wisconsin, Mariners’ Museum and Park
Day 4 Shenandoah National Park, Luray Caverns
Day 5 Monticello, Carter Mountain Orchard
Day 6 Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Williamsburg Premium Outlets
Day 7 Chincoteague Island, Assateague Island National Seashore

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Virginia

Must-Try Dishes

  • Virginia Ham: A salty, dry-cured ham loved by Virginians and considered a regional specialty.
  • She-Crab Soup: A rich, creamy soup made with crab meat, crab roe, and sherry.
  • Blue Crab: A local delicacy, best eaten steamed or served as a crab cake.
  • Peanut Pie: A sweet and savory pie made with peanuts, a crop that has a long history in Virginia.

Local Beverages

  • Virginia Wine: Virginia is becoming a major wine-producing state and offers excellent wines from Viognier to Cabernet Franc.
  • Virginia Beer: The craft beer scene is booming in Virginia, with over 200 breweries statewide.
  • Virginia Cider: A refreshing drink made from locally-grown apples, hard cider is the state’s fastest-growing beverage industry.

Where to Stay in Eastern Virginia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Jefferson Hotel: A five-star luxury hotel in Richmond, famous for its Beaux-Arts architecture and grand public spaces.
  • The Williamsburg Inn: A luxurious hotel located within walking distance of Colonial Williamsburg.
  • Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront: A beachfront hotel with excellent amenities and proximity to Virginia Beach attractions.
  • The Inn at Little Washington: A romantic and elegant inn located in a charming small town of Washington, Virginia.

What to Buy in Eastern Virginia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Peanut Butter: With its connection to peanuts, Virginia is home to some of the country’s best peanut butter producers.
  • Honey: Virginia is a top producer of honey, and it’s easy to find local honey at farmer’s markets and specialty food stores.
  • Handcrafted Jewelry: Virginia has a vibrant arts and crafts community, and the state is home to some skilled jewelry makers.
  • Virginia Ham: A perfect souvenir for food lovers, this cured ham is a must-try and makes an excellent gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Virginia

The locals in Eastern Virginia are friendly and welcoming. Hospitality is an essential part of the region’s culture, and visitors can expect to be greeted with warm smiles. The region also has a significant African American history, and visitors can learn about it by visiting museums and significant historical sites.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Virginia

The best time to visit Eastern Virginia is the shoulder season, which is from March to May and September to November. The weather is mild and less humid during these months, and visitors can enjoy the attractions without the summer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Virginia

Do:

  • Explore the region’s rich history and culture by visiting museums, historical sites, and small towns.
  • Spend time outdoors and take advantage of the stunning natural scenery.
  • Sample the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Be respectful of the region’s customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the region’s importance in American history.
  • Ignore the natural beauty of Eastern Virginia.
  • Forget to pack comfortable walking shoes and clothing for outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Virginia

Eastern Virginia is generally safe for visitors, but it’s advisable to take precautions. Visitors should stay aware of their surroundings and avoid leaving valuables in sight in parked cars.

Health in Eastern Virginia

Eastern Virginia has excellent medical facilities and hospitals, and visitors shouldn’t face any issues. However, it’s always a good idea to carry travelers’ insurance.

Getting to Eastern Virginia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern Virginia

  • Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport
  • Richmond International Airport
  • Norfolk International Airport

Bus Stations Near Eastern Virginia

  • Greyhound
  • Megabus

Other Options

  • Amtrak train service is an excellent way to reach Eastern Virginia, with trains stopping in Richmond, Williamsburg, and Norfolk.
  • Car rental is popular among visitors to the region, and several rental car companies operate in the area.

How to Get Around in Eastern Virginia

The best way to get around Eastern Virginia is by car, but visitors can also use public transportation like city buses, Amtrak trains, and taxis. Bike rental shops, including electric bikes, are also available in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Virginia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Washington DC: just a two-hour drive from Eastern Virginia, the US capital has a wealth of attractions, including memorials, monuments, and museums.
  • Maryland: Explore the beaches, historic towns, and seaports of Maryland, just a short drive away from Eastern Virginia.
  • North Carolina: From the Outer Banks to the Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina offers plenty of natural wonders and fun activities.

Conclusion

Eastern Virginia is a fantastic destination for those who want to explore history, culture, and natural beauty. With its gorgeous beaches, scenic drives, hiking and biking trails, museums, and fantastic food and drink options, there’s something for everyone in this region.



    Eastern Shore
    Hampton Roads
    Smithfield
    Virginia Peninsula