7 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Virginia for 2026
The Commonwealth of Virginia may be known as the “Old Dominion,” and this state is rich in fascinating history, yet it also provides ample opportunities to embark on exciting new adventures. Beyond the grand monuments of Richmond and the D.C. metro region, Virginia also abounds in gorgeous Appalachian backcountry, fertile and flavorful wine county regions, and beautiful beaches at Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Coast. Along the way, travelers can discover plenty of interesting stories, not just of past United States presidents, but also country music, enterprising farmers, and some of the world’s most beloved ponies.
Out here, there’s no reason to settle for a boring weekend. To see why, here are seven amazing weekend getaways in Virginia for 2026.
Fredericksburg
Located roughly halfway between Washington, D.C., and Richmond is Fredericksburg, a town that experienced many battles in the past, but also one that enjoys a much more tranquil atmosphere today. For those interested in the past battles, Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park is a must-do for its preservation of four U.S. Civil War battlefields that share the stories of Union forces’ struggles to overtake the Confederates, and of Black Americans’ efforts to escape the horrors of chattel slavery. Meanwhile, for a calm experience in nature, there’s Crows Nest Natural Area Preserve, a 3,056-acre wetland and forest preserve along the Potomac River that’s perfect for hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching.
In town, there’s plenty more for visitors to see and do, including tasting locally-made bourbon whiskeys, rums, and vodkas at A. Smith Bowman Distillery, and stepping back into the world of Revolutionary War-era medicine at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop. To complete the ideal Fredericksburg weekend, one can stay at the Ironclad Inn, a beautifully preserved 18th-century home that’s now a charming bed-and-breakfast with its own bourbon tasting rooms (featuring Ironclad’s own authentic bourbon whiskey).
Front Royal
It’s about a 70-mile drive from Washington, D.C., to Front Royal, a town that proudly serves as Northern Virginia’s gateway to the majestic natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley. Just to the south of town is the northern entrance to Shenandoah National Park, where travelers can take in 105 miles of glorious Blue Ridge Mountain vistas along Skyline Drive and hit a number of incredible hiking trails. Beyond the national park, Front Royal is close to some more beautiful public lands, including the gorgeous Shenandoah River State Park and the popular hunting and fishing grounds at G. Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area.
While Front Royal is surrounded by plenty of rugged national beauty, this area also has a more refined side. It’s totally worth booking a reservation to visit Crimson Lane Vineyards, a true family-run winery that makes an enticing variety of red and white varietals. And for something extra special, folks can book a stay at Marriott Ranch and the Inn at Fairfield Farm, a unique boutique inn that combines the cozy vibes of a country estate and the elevated hospitality of a premium Marriott property.
Smithfield
Just 26 miles northwest of Norfolk is the pleasant town of Smithfield, a town that invites visitors to come and taste the boldest flavors of the Hampton Roads region. At the Isle of Wight County Museum, folks can not only learn about the area’s rich culinary heritage, but also spot the world’s oldest ham and partake in some fun interactive exhibits. Just a couple of blocks away, visitors can stop at the Taste of Smithfield restaurant and feast on classic Southern American cuisine featuring plenty more local pork. And for a fuller taste of all that Smithfield has to offer, it’s worth trying the British pub-style fare at The Fiddlin’ Pig, along with the handcrafted American pub food and craft beers of Wharf Hill Brewing Co.
After a long day feasting on Smithfield’s many delectable delights, guests can not only find rest and relaxation at Smithfield Station, but even more tasty treats at their own award-winning restaurant, along an on-site marina on the Pagan River and a variety of refined rooms and suites to choose from.
Lovettsville
Perched in the scenic expanse of Northern Virginia’s wine country, only about 55 miles northwest of Washington, D.C., is the quaint yet esteemed village of Lovettsville. Since this is part of Loudoun County’s fruitful wine region, there are plenty of great wineries and vineyards in the area, including the laid-back yet very farm-to-bottle focused Hiddencroft Vineyards, and the highly rated Euro-style wines of Domaine Fortier. But in case anyone fancies a different kind of brew, 1836 Kitchen and Taproom is in town, and they have a great selection of local and national craft beers alongside hearty pub fare on the menu.
For even more tasty treasures, folks can head over to Georges Mill Farm and stock up on their house-made farmstead cheeses, gelatos, and candies, along with items sourced from other local farms. From there, it’s an easy ride over to Stone Manor Boutique Inn, a luxury bed-and-breakfast housed in a historic (1908) manor with incredible mountain views.
Chincoteague
Situated on Virginia’s scenic Eastern Shore, around 60 miles south of Ocean City, Maryland, is the legendary seaside village of Chincoteague. Marguerite Henry made this town famous with her classic 1947 children’s novel Misty of Chincoteague, and its 1961 film adaptation Misty introduced even more people to the magical beauty of this place and its population of wild ponies. For more of Misty’s backstory, the Museum of Chincoteague Island is the place to go, especially when one can secure an appointment to visit the museum’s Beebe Ranch for fully immersive farm tours. And for anyone who’s curious about what happened here before Misty introduced the world to the island’s wild ponies, the Captain Timothy Hill House is open by appointment to tour this c. 1800 log house that’s one of only two left standing across the entire state.
Of course, no trip to Chincoteague Island feels complete without visiting Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which preserves the iconic Assateague Island Lighthouse and the wild pony habitat, and the adjacent 37 miles of pristine and beautiful Atlantic Ocean-facing beaches at Assateague Island National Seashore. To complete the perfect weekend at Chincoteague, the family-owned Refuge Inn provides a warm welcome and a lovely assortment of cozy rooms and suites.
Afton
Nestled in the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, about 25 miles west of Charlottesville, is the charming village of Afton. For those who want to explore the southern end of Shenandoah National Park, Rockfish Gap is nearby, and it’s a short drive up Skyline Drive to scenic stops like McCormick Gap and Calf Mountain. Then, to the south of town, visitors will find Crabtree Falls, the highest vertical-drop cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, totaling some 1,200 feet of refreshing natural beauty.
While Afton abounds in gorgeous mountain vistas, the hills also come alive with the bold and rich flavors of fine Virginia wines. In particular, Hazy Mountain is a family-owned winery crafting exceptional French and German-style wines (and beers), while Flying Fox makes more contemporary and whimsical wines, and Veritas is worth experiencing for its beautiful backdrop and its sophisticated red, white, and sparkling wines. And to complete the perfect wine country weekend, visitors can stay at The Farmhouse at Veritas, a charming on-site bed and breakfast.
Bristol
Near the southwestern corner of Virginia is the lively music-making town of Bristol. Since the 1927 Bristol Sessions, this town has held a special place in country music history, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum is the perfect starting point for diving into the many fascinating backstories of Bristol’s music scene. Meanwhile, the Paramount Center for the Arts hosts a number of entertaining present-day musicians and performers. And for a very special experience rooted in local tradition, it’s a 45-minute drive out to the Carter Family Fold for incredible bluegrass, folk, and old-school country music shows on Saturdays.
In case one can use some additional fun, games, and cool libations, Squabble State is worth a stop for their craft ciders and beers, as well as special events on site like food truck gatherings, game nights, and live music shows. And for the ultimate Bristol weekend, guests can stay at The Sessions Hotel, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio property with funky yet comfy loft-style rooms and suites, the tasty Southern Craft restaurant on site, and their Music Lawn that often hosts weekend concerts.
Fall in Love With these Virginia Getaways
Virginia has a promising plethora of options for great weekend getaways throughout the state. For those craving a refined wine country experience, Lovettsville is the ideal launchpad for exploring “DC’s Wine Country,” while Afton crafts exceptional wines in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Speaking of the mountains, Front Royal opens up to the majestic grandeur of Shenandoah National Park. And at Chincoteague, folks can take in the illustrious Atlantic Coast and the magic of all its Misty lore. Whatever one wants or needs to do over the weekend, Virginia makes weekend getaways look and feel so much better.
