Day trips from Richmond
From Richmond, Virginia
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Richmond, Virginia, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a diverse range of attractions. But sometimes, you might want to venture beyond the city limits to explore the natural beauty, charming towns, and unique experiences that the surrounding region has to offer. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, there are plenty of day trip opportunities within driving distance of Richmond. From the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains to the historic towns of Colonial Virginia, and from the beautiful beaches of the Eastern Shore to the cultural hubs of the Piedmont, there's something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your friends, and get ready to explore some of the best day trips from Richmond.
1. Charlottesville
Charlottesville is a charming college town nestled in the heart of Virginia's wine country. Home to the University of Virginia, this city offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the iconic Monticello, the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, and explore the beautiful grounds of the university. Stroll through the vibrant downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest wines at one of the many nearby vineyards.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Monticello
- ✓University of Virginia
- ✓Downtown Charlottesville
- ✓Virginia wine tasting
2. Williamsburg
Step back in time with a visit to Williamsburg, a historic town that brings the 18th century to life. Explore Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum that offers a glimpse into the daily life of America's founding era. Visit the Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Battlefield to learn about the early days of the American colonies. With its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and costumed interpreters, Williamsburg is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Colonial Williamsburg
- ✓Jamestown Settlement
- ✓Yorktown Battlefield
- ✓Historic homes and museums
3. Shenandoah National Park
Escape to the great outdoors with a day trip to Shenandoah National Park. This stunning park is home to the scenic Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views, hiking trails, and waterfalls. Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal with a view, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of this remarkable park.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Skyline Drive
- ✓Hiking trails
- ✓Waterfalls
- ✓Picnic spots
4. Chincoteague Island
For a taste of coastal living, head to Chincoteague Island, a barrier island known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and the famous Chincoteague ponies. Explore the island's nature trails, visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and enjoy a variety of water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. Don't miss the chance to see the wild ponies that roam the island.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Chincoteague ponies
- ✓Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
- ✓Beaches and water sports
- ✓Nature trails
5. Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is a historic town with a rich past and a vibrant present. Visit the Fredericksburg Battlefield, a key site of the Civil War, and explore the town's many museums and historic sites. Stroll through the charming downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest craft beers at one of the local breweries.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Fredericksburg Battlefield
- ✓Historic sites and museums
- ✓Downtown Fredericksburg
- ✓Craft breweries
6. Lynchburg
Lynchburg is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Lynchburg Museum, which offers a glimpse into the city's past, and explore the beautiful grounds of Liberty University. Stroll through the downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest craft beers at one of the local breweries.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Lynchburg Museum
- ✓Liberty University
- ✓Downtown Lynchburg
- ✓Craft breweries
7. Staunton
Staunton is a charming town nestled in the Shenandoah Valley. Visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, which offers a glimpse into the life of the 28th President of the United States. Explore the town's many historic sites and museums, and stroll through the vibrant downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest craft beers at one of the local breweries.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum
- ✓Historic sites and museums
- ✓Downtown Staunton
- ✓Craft breweries
8. Virginia Beach
For a taste of coastal living, head to Virginia Beach, a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Explore the city's many attractions, including the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, the Cape Henry Lighthouse, and the Adam Thoroughgood House and Gardens. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Virginia Beach Boardwalk
- ✓Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- ✓Cape Henry Lighthouse
- ✓Adam Thoroughgood House and Gardens
9. Lexington
Lexington is a charming town nestled in the Shenandoah Valley. Visit the Lee Chapel and Museum, which offers a glimpse into the life of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Explore the town's many historic sites and museums, and stroll through the vibrant downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest craft beers at one of the local breweries.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Lee Chapel and Museum
- ✓Historic sites and museums
- ✓Downtown Lexington
- ✓Craft breweries
10. Roanoke
Roanoke is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit the Virginia Museum of Transportation, which offers a glimpse into the region's rich transportation history. Explore the city's many attractions, including the Mill Mountain Park, the Roanoke Star, and the Taubman Museum of Art. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest craft beers at one of the local breweries.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Virginia Museum of Transportation
- ✓Mill Mountain Park
- ✓Roanoke Star
- ✓Taubman Museum of Art
11. Hampton
Hampton is a historic city with a rich past and a vibrant present. Visit the Hampton Carousel, a historic landmark that has been entertaining visitors for over a century. Explore the city's many attractions, including the Hampton History Museum, the Fort Monroe National Monument, and the Virginia Air & Space Center. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Hampton Carousel
- ✓Hampton History Museum
- ✓Fort Monroe National Monument
- ✓Virginia Air & Space Center
12. Richmond Brewery Tours
If you're a beer enthusiast, don't miss the Richmond Brewery Tours. This guided tour takes you to some of the best breweries in the city, where you can sample a variety of craft beers and learn about the brewing process. The tour includes transportation, so you can enjoy the beers without worrying about driving. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's finest craft beers at one of the local breweries.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Guided brewery tour
- ✓Craft beer sampling
- ✓Transportation included
- ✓Local breweries
Available Tours:
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