10 Free Things to Do in Virginia

Virginia is a beautiful state full of breathtaking scenery, interesting historical sites, and plenty of outdoor activities. From the vibrant coastal city of Virginia Beach to the majestic Shenandoah National Park, there’s something for everyone in the Old Dominion. Best of all, many of the best attractions in Virginia can be enjoyed absolutely free. Here are 10 free things you can do in Virginia that won’t break the bank.

Explore the Natural Wonders of Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Virginia. Spanning over 200,000 acres, this park is home to a vast array of wildlife and stunning scenery, from rolling hills to cascading waterfalls. The most popular activity in the park is hiking, though you can also enjoy camping, fishing, horseback riding, and even a scenic drive along Skyline Drive. Entrance to the park is free and all the trails are open to the public.

The park is home to a variety of different ecosystems, from forests to meadows to wetlands. You’ll find a number of different species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, as well as various types of flora and fauna. You can also explore the many caves and sinkholes scattered throughout the park, or just take in the breathtaking views from the many overlooks.

No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in Shenandoah National Park. With its free admission and variety of activities, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Visit the Jamestown Settlement

Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that brings the colonial past of Virginia to life. Located on the site of the original Jamestown Colony, the museum offers interactive exhibits, costumed interpreters, and hands-on activities to help visitors explore the history of America’s first permanent English settlement. Admission to the museum is free, and there are a number of activities and events that are open to the public throughout the year.

Visitors can explore the recreated fort, learn about the Powhatan Indians, and see the replica ships that sailed to Virginia in 1607. There are also a variety of interactive displays, such as a full-size replica of the Godspeed, one of the three ships that brought the settlers to Jamestown. The museum also offers special events, such as reenactments of battles and other historical events, as well as educational programs for children and adults.

Jamestown Settlement is a great way to learn about the history of Virginia, and the free admission makes it an economical choice for a family outing or day trip.

Admire the Artwork at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is one of the largest and most respected art museums in the United States. Located in Richmond, the museum houses an impressive collection of art from around the world, spanning centuries and cultures. From ancient Assyrian sculptures to contemporary pieces, the museum has something for everyone.

The museum offers free admission to its permanent collection, as well as a variety of special exhibitions and events. You can take a self-guided tour of the galleries, or attend a lecture or workshop to learn more about the artists and their works. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults, as well as a gift shop and cafe.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something to do on a rainy day, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a great place to spend an afternoon. With its free admission and extensive collection, it’s no wonder the VMFA is one of the most popular attractions in Richmond.

Stroll Through the Streets of Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria is a charming historic district located just across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. The area is home to a variety of independent shops, restaurants, and art galleries, as well as a bustling waterfront. Strolling through the cobblestone streets and admiring the architecture is a great way to spend an afternoon.

The most popular activity in Old Town is visiting the boutiques and antique stores. There are also a number of restaurants, from casual cafes to upscale bistros, and a lively nightlife scene. The waterfront is a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the river, and there are a variety of special events and festivals throughout the year.

Old Town Alexandria is a great place to explore and experience the history and culture of Virginia. With its free admission and variety of attractions, it’s a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Visit the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

The National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located just outside of Washington D.C. in Chantilly, Virginia. The museum is home to over 300 aircraft and spacecraft, as well as a variety of interactive exhibits and activities. Admission to the museum is free, and there are a number of events and programs throughout the year.

Visitors can explore the vast collection of artifacts, from the Wright Brothers’ 1903 Flyer to the Space Shuttle Discovery. You can also take a self-guided tour of the hangar, which houses a variety of aircraft from World War I to the present day. The museum also offers educational programs and activities for children and adults, as well as a variety of performances and special events.

The National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is a great way to learn about the history of aviation and space exploration. With its free admission and variety of attractions, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

See the Animals at the Virginia Zoo

The Virginia Zoo is located in Norfolk, Virginia, and is home to more than 500 animals from around the world. The zoo is divided into four different sections, each featuring a different type of animal, from reptiles to primates to birds. There are also a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, such as the giraffe feeding station and the petting zoo.

The zoo offers free admission, as well as a variety of educational programs and special events. You can take a guided tour of the zoo, or explore the exhibits and attractions on your own. There’s also a variety of restaurants and snack stands throughout the zoo, as well as a gift shop and a train ride.

The Virginia Zoo is a great place to spend the day with the family. With its free admission and variety of attractions, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Explore the Grounds of Monticello

Monticello is the home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. Located in Charlottesville, Virginia, the grounds of Monticello are a National Historic Landmark and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. The house and grounds are open to the public, and admission is free.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and grounds, or explore them on their own. The house is filled with a variety of interesting artifacts, from furniture to books to Jefferson’s own inventions. You can also take a walk through the gardens, or explore the trails that wind through the property. There are also a number of special events and educational programs throughout the year.

Monticello is a great way to experience the history and culture of Virginia. With its free admission and variety of attractions, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Experience the Thrills of Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a theme park located in Williamsburg, Virginia. The park is home to a variety of rides and attractions, from roller coasters to water rides to live shows. Admission to the park is free, and there are a number of special events and activities throughout the year.

The park is divided into nine different themed areas, each with its own attractions and activities. You can ride the roller coasters and water rides, explore the animal habitats, or take in a show. There are also a variety of restaurants and snack stands throughout the park, as well as a variety of shopping opportunities. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for children and adults.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a great place to spend the day with the family. With its free admission and variety of attractions, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Visit the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area

The Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area is a living history museum that recreates life in 18th century America. The area consists of over 500 acres of restored buildings, gardens, and streets, as well as a variety of interactive exhibits and activities. Admission to the area is free, and there are a number of special events and programs throughout the year.

Visitors can learn about the colonial past of Virginia through interactive exhibits, costumed interpreters, and hands-on activities. You can explore the many restored buildings, visit the shops and stores of the period, or take a carriage ride around the area. There are also a variety of educational programs and activities for children and adults, as well as a gift shop and cafe.

The Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area is a great way to learn about the history of Virginia. With its free admission and variety of attractions, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Explore the Natural Wonders of the Great Dismal Swamp

The Great Dismal Swamp is a vast protected area located in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, from birds and reptiles to mammals and amphibians. There are also a number of trails and boardwalks that wind through the swamp, as well as a variety of educational programs and activities.

The swamp is a great place to explore and experience the natural beauty of Virginia. You can take a self-guided tour of the trails, or attend a ranger-led hike to learn more about the area’s ecology. There are also a variety of special events throughout the year, such as bird watching and stargazing. The swamp is also home to a variety of interesting plants, from carnivorous pitcher plants to the ancient cypress trees.

The Great Dismal Swamp is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Virginia. With its free admission and variety of attractions, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Summary

Virginia is a beautiful state full of breathtaking scenery, interesting historical sites, and plenty of outdoor activities. Many of the best attractions in Virginia can be enjoyed absolutely free, including Shenandoah National Park, Jamestown Settlement, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Old Town Alexandria, the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, the Virginia Zoo, Monticello, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area, and the Great Dismal Swamp. Whether you’re looking for an educational outing or just a fun day out with the family, Virginia has something for everyone. With its free admission and variety of attractions, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.