Virginia’s tourism slogan hasn’t changed in 40 years. In 1969, a Richmond-based advertising agency coined the phrase “Virginia is for Lovers” and it has been ever since. Lovers of history (considered the birthplace of our nation as well as the birthplace of eight U.S. presidents), lovers of the outdoors and scenic vistas (Shenandoah National Park and portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail), lovers of beaches (namely Virginia Beach and Assateague Beach) and lovers of all kinds of fun will agree!
Thousand Trails has five campgrounds in the Old Dominion, so you can hop around the state and find out what everyone loves about Virginia! Virginia campgrounds are Chesapeake Bay RV Campground (Gloucester), Harbor View RV Campground (Colonial Beach), Lynchburg RV Campground (Gladys), Virginia Landing (Quinby), and Williamsburg RV Campground (Williamsburg).
History Lovers: Of course, Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum set on 301 acres depicting life as it was during Colonial times. From a presidential perspective, Virginia visitors have the opportunity to visit the homesteads of Thomas Jefferson (Monticello), George Washington (Mt. Vernon), and James Monroe’s Highlands. The Manassas National Battlefield Park is the site of one of the first major battles of the Civil War and the Henry Hill National Visitors Center here features a 45-minute film about the battle.
Nature Lovers: The Blue Ridge Parkway runs 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. Virginia highlights includeMabry Mill (Milepost 176) which has served as a blacksmith shop, sawmill, and gristmill; Rocky Knob Recreation Area (Milepost 169) which offers stunning views and the Rock Castle Gorge Trail; and Peaks of Otter (Milepost 86) with its soaring three peaks. Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of hiking trails, including more than 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail, fishing opportunities in more than 70 mountain streams home to over 30 species of fish, including brook trout. The Appalachian Trail can be explored in Virginia as more than 500 miles run through here.
Beach Lovers: Virginia Beach is a charming beach town with an equally charming boardwalk. Stroll the three miles and you will see all kinds of wonders including nautical sculptures, live entertainment, and a 24-foot statue of King Neptune. Chincoteague Beach is a favorite for birders and well as kayakers and surfers. Clamming and crabbing are popular pastimes here. Assateague Island is home to the famous feral horses, the historic Assateague Lighthouse and plenty of beaches for relaxing.
Fun Lovers: Busch Gardens Williamsburg is home to all kinds of thrill rides, hosts several special festivals throughout the year and is guaranteed fun for all ages. The Loch Ness Monster is the world’s only double interlocking loop roller coaster, while the newly launched Finnegan’s Flyer is an extreme swing ride that takes riders more than 80 feet in the air. Howl-O-Scream (September 15 to October 28 this year) has haunted houses, escape rooms, and scary shows, while Christmas Town has a variety of holiday-themed shows, and a holiday light display that is one of the largest in North America. Kings Dominion is another Virginia amusement park that features thrill rides, tame rides, and a water park, Soak City. For information, visit www.kingsdominion.com.
There is so much to see and do in Virginia you’re bound to find something you just love about this state. Check out www.virginia.org to see all that Virginia offers.