things to do in virginia with kids

Virginia is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, with a rich history, beautiful outdoor spaces, and plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages. Here are some things to do in Virginia with kids:

Outdoor Adventures

1. Shenandoah National Park: Explore the scenic beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, go hiking, camping, or take a scenic drive.
2. Virginia Beach: Spend a day at the beach, build sandcastles, and enjoy the boardwalk.
3. Appalachian Trail: Take a family-friendly hike on the Appalachian Trail, which runs through Virginia.
4. Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the Chesapeake Bay or Virginia’s many lakes and rivers.

History and Education

1. Colonial Williamsburg: Step back in time and experience life in colonial America.
2. Mount Vernon: Visit George Washington’s home and learn about his life and legacy.
3. Arlington National Cemetery: Pay respects to America’s fallen heroes and learn about the cemetery’s history.
4. Virginia Living Museum: Explore the state’s natural history, with exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals, and the outdoors.

Theme Parks and Water Parks

1. Busch Gardens Williamsburg: Enjoy roller coasters, animal exhibits, and live performances.
2. Kings Dominion: Ride roller coasters, play games, and enjoy the water park.
3. Water Country USA: Cool off on a hot summer day at this water park in Williamsburg.
4. Great Waves Waterpark: Another fun water park option in Alexandria.

Museums and Indoor Play

1. Children’s Science Center Lab: Hands-on science experiments and activities in Fairfax.
2. Virginia Children’s Museum: Interactive exhibits and play areas in Richmond.
3. National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: Explore historic aircraft and spacecraft in Chantilly.
4. Indoor Play Centers: Many options throughout the state, such as Playworks in Richmond and Wee Play in Virginia Beach.

Festivals and Events

1. Virginia State Fair: Annual fair with rides, animals, and live music in Doswell.
2. Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival: Celebrate spring with parades, food, and activities in Winchester.
3. Virginia Beach Neptune Festival: Summer festival with sand sculptures, live music, and activities.
4. Richmond Folk Festival: Enjoy traditional music and dance from around the world in Richmond.

Other Fun Activities

1. Horseback Riding: Explore Virginia’s countryside on horseback with guided tours.
2. Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in Virginia’s many lakes, rivers, and coastal areas.
3. Geocaching: Go on a treasure hunt with GPS coordinates in various state parks and forests.
4. Visit a Farm: Many farms in Virginia offer tours, animal encounters, and pick-your-own produce.

These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Virginia with kids. With its rich history, beautiful outdoors, and variety of attractions, Virginia is a great destination for a family vacation.