Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown in southern Virginia are two historic places that would be of interest to visitors to the state. Many Civil War battles were fought in Virginia. The Manassas and Fredericksburg battlefields are two interesting sights of particular interest to Civil War enthusiasts. Richmond has many museums and visitors can tour the state capitol that served as the role model for the creation of the United States Congress in the 18th century. Alexandria and Dumfries are the two main historic ports cities containing museums and historic homes of interest.

Virginia offers many recreational activities in the form of nature trails, parks, water parks, amusement parks, golf courses and rivers for boating activities.

Historic Monument Avenue reminds you of Richmond’s prominent place in the Civil War. Most of the large monuments centered on the avenue are dedicated to personages from that period. Victorian era houses line both sides of the tree-lined street which leads into the revitalized downtown.

The historic district reminds you of the antiquity of Virginia. Long before its position as capital of the Confederacy, Richmond was home to patriots in the Revolutionary War, including Patrick Henry, who delivered his fiery “give me liberty” speech at St. John’s Church, located in the East End. Patrick Henry was in attendance at the laying of the cornerstone of the nearby Capitol building, designed by Thomas Jefferson.

Richmond is also home to many excellent museums, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Science Museum and the Children’s Museum of Richmond. Several theater companies, a ballet, a symphony and the Virginia Opera provide opportunities to enjoy vibrant arts in the present day. Richmond also hosts a yearly folk festival.

Virginia Beach is one of the most popular destinations in the whole state. Visitors can lie under the sun, walk in the sand and swim in the ocean. For those seeking adventure, they can take a boat trip to look for bottle-nose dolphins. Guests can even rent a bike to ride along the boardwalk.

Great Falls National Park is another great place to explore. The Potomac River descends down 77 feet of beautiful and treacherous rapids. This park provides hiking and biking opportunities. In addition, there are some picnic spots that offer stunning panoramic views.

Another spot to check out is Mount Vernon. This location was George Washington’s home. The 19-room mansion provides a journey through history. Since they loved the area so much, both George and his wife are buried here. Visitors can take time to explore the colonial-styled home.

If you’re a lover of history then visiting Jamestown should be the first stop on your list. With the history that this place has to offer as well as the fact that it was the first English settlement, it’s recommended that any history buff visit this town with a camera in hand.Is this new to you? Catch up here A museum set in the heart of this quaint town will let you watch history unfold since reenactments are a big hit for the visitors of Jamestown.

If reenactments aren’t really your thing, feel free to visit the many different art museums that Virginia has to offer, as well as original plantations renovated for tourists and locals alike to enjoy. When you’ve decided to step back out of the 1800’s, Virginia has many modern day parks and recreational areas perfect for camping or picnicking to help you end your perfect day. With all the great landmarks and historic artifacts, it’s not hard to see why things are better in Virginia.

Williamsburg, Virginia is one of the first settlements in the state. Preserved as a historical site, this city gives visitors an inside look of how life was really like in the colonial days. At Colonial Williamsburg, guests can learn about the history of the area through demonstrations and tours of the Governor’s Mansion, trades such as the blacksmith shop and apothecary, auctions, and so much more.Never heard of this before? Get up to speed here. Children will enjoy the toy store, where they can play with and purchase toys that were popular in the eighteenth century. Guests can dine at authentic Taverns, where they will enjoy a hearty dinner of chicken pot pie or lamb, along with entertainment such as music and magic.

Not only does history continue to live in Williamsburg, but other areas of Virginia, such as the Jamestown Settlement and Civil War Trails show the rich history of the state.

On a list of largest, first, and only things in the world, Virginia has the largest shipbuilding yard, office building, and bridge-tunnel complex. The only oyster museum in the world is located in Virginia. Georgia may be the top peanut producing state but the first crop of peanuts harvested in the United States was grown in Virginia.

In addition to presidents and first ladies, just a few of the household names genre born in Virginia are: musicians, Pearl Bailey, Ella Fitzgerald, Roy Clarke, and Bill Bojangles Robinson. Virginians whose names have appeared on movie marques are: Warren Beatty, Shirley MacLaine, George C. Scott, and Joseph Cotton. Tennis ace, Arthur Asche and golf champion, Sam Snead hailed from Virginia.

Booker T. Washington’s birthplace is located near the town of Rocky Mount, Virginia, not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway. At this lesser known park, people can learn about the day-to-day lives of both slaves and owners. A trip south on the Blue Ridge Parkway will take you past Mabry Mill, a fully functional gristmill. A favorite for photographers and history buffs alike, techniques such as spinning, canning and drying foods are often demonstrated at the mill. Civil War sites abound in Virginia including Appomattox where the truce was signed.

Visit Virginia and you will not be disappointed, there is something for everyone!