Travel Guide: Virginia North Carolina Map
Top Attractions
If you’re planning a trip to Virginia and North Carolina, you’ll have no shortage of attractions to choose from. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Jamestown Settlement, Monticello, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg are just a few of the top attractions in Virginia. In North Carolina, you won’t want to miss the Biltmore Estate, the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and the Outer Banks.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth visiting, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, consider visiting Chincoteague Island, where you can see wild ponies, or the town of Abingdon, known for its charming Main Street. In North Carolina, the town of Asheville is a great place to explore, with its vibrant arts scene and stunning mountain views.
Food Scene
The food scene in Virginia and North Carolina is not to be missed. In Virginia, be sure to sample the seafood in Virginia Beach or the barbecue in Richmond. In North Carolina, you’ll want to try the Lexington-style barbecue or the seafood in the Outer Banks. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of sweet tea!
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Virginia and North Carolina without breaking the bank. Consider camping instead of staying in a hotel, or visit the many free attractions, such as the National Mall in Washington D.C. If you’re driving, pack a cooler with snacks and drinks to save money on food.
Outdoor Adventures
Both Virginia and North Carolina are known for their outdoor adventures. In Virginia, you can go hiking in Shenandoah National Park or kayaking on the James River. In North Carolina, you won’t want to miss a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains or a day of whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River.
Historical Landmarks
There are plenty of historical landmarks to explore in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, visit the Jamestown Settlement, the site of the first permanent English settlement in America, or Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. In North Carolina, the Wright Brothers National Memorial and the USS North Carolina are must-sees.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA are great options, as well as the Virginia Zoo. In North Carolina, the North Carolina Zoo and Tweetsie Railroad are fun for all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, consider visiting the Luray Caverns or the Natural Bridge. In North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate is a must-see, as well as the Carolina Balloon Fest.
Natural Wonders
Both Virginia and North Carolina are home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country. In Virginia, be sure to visit the Natural Bridge and the Luray Caverns. In North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains and the Outer Banks are not to be missed.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t stop in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, check out the nightlife in Richmond or Virginia Beach. In North Carolina, Asheville is known for its vibrant music scene, and Wilmington has a great selection of bars and restaurants.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for souvenirs or just want to explore the local culture, be sure to check out the many local markets in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, the Virginia Beach Farmers Market and the Old Town Farmers Market in Alexandria are great options. In North Carolina, the Asheville City Market and the State Farmers Market in Raleigh are not to be missed.
Beaches and Mountains
Virginia and North Carolina are home to both stunning beaches and breathtaking mountains. In Virginia, you won’t want to miss Virginia Beach or Shenandoah National Park. In North Carolina, the Outer Banks and the Great Smoky Mountains are must-sees.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, there are plenty of opportunities to do so in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, consider visiting the Williamsburg Historic District or attending a festival in Richmond. In North Carolina, the Cherokee Indian Reservation and the Carolina Renaissance Festival are great options.
Art and Music Scene
Both Virginia and North Carolina are known for their vibrant arts and music scenes. In Virginia, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Richmond Folk Festival are great options. In North Carolina, the Asheville Art Museum and the Merlefest Music Festival are not to be missed.
Walking Tours
There are plenty of walking tours to choose from in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, consider taking a walking tour of historic Alexandria or visiting the many Civil War sites. In North Carolina, the Wilmington Riverwalk and the Asheville Urban Trail are great options.
Architectural Marvels
If you’re interested in architecture, there are plenty of marvels to explore in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, the Monticello and the Virginia State Capitol are must-sees. In North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate and the Old Salem Historic District are great options.
Historical Sites
Both Virginia and North Carolina are rich in history. In Virginia, visit the Jamestown Settlement or the Appomattox Court House, where the Civil War ended. In North Carolina, the USS North Carolina and the North Carolina Maritime Museum are great options.
Biking Routes
Both Virginia and North Carolina offer plenty of great biking routes. In Virginia, the Virginia Creeper Trail and the Capital Trail are great options. In North Carolina, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway are not to be missed.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a little rest and relaxation, there are plenty of wellness retreats to choose from in Virginia and North Carolina. In Virginia, consider visiting the Omni Homestead Resort, where you can enjoy the hot springs. In North Carolina, the Art of Living Retreat Center and the Duke Diet & Fitness Center are great options.
Adventure Sports
Both Virginia and North Carolina offer plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. In Virginia, try your hand at rock climbing or caving. In North Carolina, whitewater rafting and ziplining are popular options.
With so much to see and do, Virginia and North Carolina are the perfect destination for your next vacation. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing on the beach, you’ll find it all here.