Drive 265.2 miles • 5 hours, 35 minutes

From living-history museums to laid-back beach resorts, the Commonwealth of Virginia encompasses a wide variety of vacation hot spots. This trip is a sampler of some of the best that the Old Dominion State has to offer.

1. Cape Charles

Starting Point • History, Nature, Outdoor Recreation, Sports

Cape Charles’ Victorian architecture and laid-back pace set the tone for folks whose idea of a great trip includes a European day spa or a locally sourced oyster meal. Travelers who want to try something a bit more exciting can go horseback riding on the shore or golfing on courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. Discover clamming at its best along the shore, and head to Virginia Beach via the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel for some spectacular views.

2. Virginia Beach

45.7 miles, 1 hour, 13 minutes • Entertainment, History, Nature

Virginia Beach offers several fun-filled beach experiences. Stroll along the 3-mile oceanfront boardwalk lined with museums, restaurants, shops and nightlife. First Landing State Park, Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Cape Henry Lighthouse and Ocean Breeze Waterpark are major attractions. For a change of pace, head south to Sandbridge, a laid-back getaway bordering the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

3. Hampton

29.3 miles, 45 minutes • Entertainment, History, Outdoor Recreation, Quirky

In Hampton, head to Buckroe Beach and Park to cool off. For more maritime adventure, board the Miss Hampton II, a double-decker tour boat that explores the scenery and history of this compelling town. Visit Fort Monroe, built in the 1600s and pressed into service as the prison that housed Confederate President Jefferson Davis at the end of the Civil War. Take in a jazz concert or monster truck show at the Hampton Coliseum.

4. Colonial Williamsburg

30.7 miles, 41 minutes • Entertainment, History, Outdoor Recreation

Colonial Williamsburg is the nation’s largest living-history museum. Interpretive re-enactments of Revolutionary battles and other historic events of the 18th century are re-created by professionals who stay in character. Meet American heroes, landowners, slaves, shopkeepers and day laborers. The area is also home to world-famous golf courses, watersports along the James and York rivers, theme parks and art galleries.

5. Richmond

51.6 miles, 58 minutes • History

Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War, with a capitol building designed by Thomas Jefferson. St. John’s Church is where Patrick Henry uttered the immortal words, “Give me liberty or give me death.” Henricus Historical Park celebrates Richmond’s 400-year history with events that include an annual beer festival. The Edgar Allen Poe Museum has an enviable collection honoring the poet, who called Richmond home.

6. Staunton

107.9 miles, 1 hour, 58 minutes • Entertainment, Food, History, Outdoor Recreation, Shopping

Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton earned the name “Queen City of the Shenandoah Valley” for its vital role in the region’s development. Spend the day exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains or making stops at some of the many attractions in a region once known as the “Breadbasket of the South.” When the sun sets, explore a city known for its classic architecture, fine galleries and excellent restaurants. Enjoy a night of theater at the American Shakespeare Center or visit the past at the Frontier Culture Museum.

RECOMMENDED STOPOVERS

Shenandoah Valley Campground – Verona, VA – (540) 248-CAMP(2267)