11 Best Family Vacations in Virginia
Virginia is bursting at the seams with exciting family vacation options, from its miles of beautiful coastline to its dozens of kid-friendly attractions.
In addition, there are numerous museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions to explore.
So, when you’re ready to plan a trip, think about some of Virginia’s best family vacations.
These ideas are great for families with various interests, whether you like the beach, the mountains, or amusement parks.
- Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach offers various family-friendly attractions and activities, from relaxing on the beach to exploring exciting museums.
Who should vacation here
Virginia has beautiful beaches and interesting communities, so everyone in your group is sure to have a good time there.
Take some rays on the Oceanfront, have family fun on the boardwalk with roller skates, and get some exercise kayaking in the Sandridge neighborhood.
The next step is heading to the Town Center area for food and shopping.
You won’t have to worry about finding a place to stay because it has some of the best hotels in Virginia that welcome families.
Expert tip
Stay at Four Sails Resort to cut costs on lodging. It’s hard to believe that this hotel is so reasonably priced, given its beachfront location.
In addition to its convenient location, the hotel provides guests with some nice extras, such as a sauna and an indoor pool, to make their stay more comfortable.
- Williamsburg
Williamsburg is a great place to take kids because it has educational museums and thrilling parks.
Who should vacation here
Williamsburg is a magical blend of theme park excitement and educational opportunities.
This historic city is excellent for families of all kinds thanks to attractions like Colonial Williamsburg, which recreates the life of the early settlers.
And when the kids need a break from learning about the past, they can go to one of the two amusement parks in town, Water Country USA or Busch Gardens.
Expert tip
There are steep entry fees at some of the city’s best attractions.
You can save money by purchasing a combination pass to multiple attractions and museums.
- Shenandoah National Park
An excursion to Virginia’s breathtaking Shenandoah National Park should be at the top of any list of things to do in the state with kids.
Who should vacation here
Shenandoah National Park is an excellent place for a low-cost family vacation.
The park is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and provides many low-cost activities suitable for the whole family, such as picnicking and hiking.
For younger viewers, some shows explore topics like meadows and birds.
Expert tip
A scenic drive along Skyline Drive is one of the best ways to experience the national park.
This drive winds through various landscapes, including valleys, hills, and ridges, and provides ample opportunities for scenic photography and breathtaking views.
- Berry Hill
There’s a good reason why Berry Hill is regarded as one of the finest and most opulent family resorts in all of Virginia.
Who should vacation here
Berry Hill’s superior service and sophisticated atmosphere elevate the concept of “relaxation and luxury” to new heights.
The resort’s park-like grounds are ideal for swimming, hiking, and horseback riding.
There are also outdoor games like cornhole to enjoy.
Expert tip
We highly recommend the deluxe double room for those traveling with a sizable brood.
With its two full beds, this room is comfortable for up to four adults or three adults and three children.
For this choice, we also offer connecting rooms.
- Alexandria
If you and your family are craving a vacation full of history, Southern hospitality, and Instagram-worthy sights and culture, look no further than Alexandria.
Who should vacation here
Alexandria’s old-world appeal makes it a great vacation spot for families with teens and preteens who love Instagram.
Historic District, The city of Alexandria’s historical buildings and its many dining and shopping options, make it a popular destination for families.
Ghost tours are available for those who would like a more eerie understanding of the local history.
The kicker is that…
In addition to being close to Washington, DC, Alexandria is convenient to many Virginia tourist destinations.
Expert tip
Thanks to the King Street Trolley and King Street Metro, it’s convenient for families to get around town.
These transportation methods make it easy to see Washington, DC, and Old Town sights.
- Kingsmill Resort
Indulging in the resort’s high-end facilities is a beautiful experience for any age group.
Who should vacation here
A vacation at Kingsmill Resort is ideal if you want to spend your time on the water or perfect your golf swing.
To help you relax and rejuvenate, the spa provides services like facials and massages.
To ensure that your children have a fun and entertaining stay, the hotel offers a kids’ club, a playground, and a water park.
Expert tip
The resort’s deluxe room with two double beds is where you should stay.
It has soft full-size beds and a variety of valuable features.
In addition, it can accommodate up to 4 grownups and two kids.
- Chincoteague
Chincoteague Island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore is hard to beat as a family-friendly weekend destination.
Who should vacation here
Chincoteague Island’s allure as a natural destination stems from its abundance of wild ponies and picturesque coastal setting.
The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is the main draw, where you can observe various animals, including horses, waterfowl, and birds.
Chincoteague is a great place for families to go boating, hiking, and fishing.
Experience
Animals in Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge should not be touched, fed, or approached.
Beautiful as they are, these animals are still wild despite appearances.
- Richmond
Richmond is packed with fun activities and great places to take the kids, from museums to an amusement park.
Who should vacation here
All ages will find plenty to do and learn in Richmond’s museums and cultural institutions.
Plenty of fun and educational activities can be found at the Children’s Museum of Richmond and the Science Museum of Virginia.
Go have a fantastic day at the Kings Dominion amusement park.
Expert tip
Visit the James River to taste nature on guided rafting, paddleboard, or kayak adventure.
- Luray
Were you looking for some family-friendly outdoor activities in Virginia?
Then you’ll have a blast participating in Luray’s many outdoor activities.
Who should vacation here
Luray is perfect for families looking for a relaxing and inspiring getaway in the great outdoors.
The Shenandoah Valley, Luray, Virginia, is home to the incredible Luray Caverns, an underground paradise filled with beautiful rock formations.
The town’s Rope Adventure Park is just one of many excellent outdoor destinations.
Expert tip
Stop by the Luray Zoo to see rescued animals like an alligator snapping turtle and other exotic species.
Additionally, the Toy Town Junction houses a massive collection of toy trains, dolls, and miniature circus sets that are sure to captivate any child’s imagination.
- Jamestown
Jamestown has all the makings of a fantastic family vacation, from its relaxing outdoor activities to its fascinating historical sites.
Vacationers who should come here
Jamestown’s impressive variety of historical and outdoor attractions is a huge draw for families.
Jamestown Settlement is the perfect place to satisfy your thirst for history and culture by providing a glimpse into life in 17th-century Virginia.
Greensprings Interpretive Trail is a great place for cyclists and hikers to enjoy the outdoors.
Expert tip
Experience fascinating live demonstrations of glassblowing at the town’s Glasshouse.
Pick up some stunning glassware made by hand as mementos.
- Norfolk
Norfolk is a fantastic destination for a family vacation because it offers both indoor and outdoor activities, including educational museums and relaxing beach time.
Who should vacation here
Check out Norfolk for some ship-themed merriment and enlightenment.
See the National Maritime Center first thing on your vacation.
After that, take the kids to the Touch Tank to learn about and interact with marine life like hermit crabs, starfish, and urchins.
Expert tip
Ocean View Beach Park is a beautiful place to spend a few hours or a day.
There is plenty of time for tried-and-true beach activities like shell collecting, rambling along the boardwalk, and surfing with the family.
