Spread the love!

Excitedly Explore Virginia: A Comprehensive List of Free Things to Do

Virginia gives rather more away for nothing than a state of this whole size normally ever does out there at all. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts charges nothing at all and it never has done out there. The State Capitol runs the whole of the tours for nothing and Arlington House does the very same thing. Over 5000 miles of trails cost nothing either out there. Genuinely.

Planning a trip to Virginia but worried about the expenses? Worry no more. Virginia runs a long list of free activities and attractions for tourists and locals alike. Historical sites through outdoor adventures, everybody is covered. So pack the bags and get ready to work the beauty of Virginia without breaking the bank.

One of the most popular destinations in Virginia is Virginia Beach. It is a fine beach, and it also runs free activities such as strolling along the boardwalk, watching the sunset and taking live music. Interested in history? Virginia runs many historical sites and museums free to the public. For example, the Virginia War Museum in Newport News is a strong place to learn military history, and the Virginia Capitol Building in Richmond runs free tours for anybody interested in politics and government.

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Virginia has plenty of options for you as well. With hiking trails, parks, and wildlife refuges, you can explore the natural beauty of Virginia for free. And if you are traveling with kids, there are many family-friendly activities such as visiting the Children’s Museum of Virginia in Portsmouth or exploring the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News. With so many free things to do in Virginia, you can have a fun-filled trip without spending a dime.

Key Takeaways

• Virginia offers a variety of free activities and attractions for tourists and locals.
• From historical sites to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in Virginia.
• Whether you’re interested in exploring the wildlife or enjoying family-friendly activities, Virginia has plenty of free options for you to choose from.

Exploring Virginia Beach

After free things to do in Virginia Beach? You are in luck. Virginia Beach is home to many fine beaches, parks and wildlife areas that cost nothing to take. Here are the best places to work in Virginia Beach.

The Famous Boardwalk

One of the most famous attractions in Virginia Beach is the boardwalk. This boardwalk runs along the oceanfront and is lined with shops, restaurants and attractions. You can take a stroll along the boardwalk and take the ocean views, or rent a bike and work the area on it. The boardwalk also runs many free events through the year, concerts and festivals and fireworks shows among them.

Sandbridge Beach

After a quieter beach run? Head to Sandbridge Beach. This secluded beach sits about 15 miles south of the boardwalk and runs a more peaceful atmosphere. You can swim, sunbathe, or take a walk along the beach and take the natural beauty of the area. Sandbridge Beach also suits fishing, crabbing and birdwatching.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

For a more adventurous day out, head to the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This 9,250-acre wildlife refuge sits on the southern end of Virginia Beach and runs miles of hiking trails, kayaking and wildlife viewing. You can spot wildlife across the range here, migratory birds and deer and foxes among them. The refuge also runs a visitor center where you can learn more about the area’s natural history.

Whatever your interests, Virginia Beach runs plenty of free things to do. The famous boardwalk through the secluded Sandbridge Beach and the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, everybody is covered. So pack a picnic, grab the sunscreen and get ready to work all that Virginia Beach runs.

Historical Sites and Museums

History buffs get plenty of free historical sites and museums in Virginia to work. Here are the places not to be skipped, because they carry you back in time:

Visiting Colonial Williamsburg

Step back into the 18th century by visiting Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum that recreates life in the colonial era. You can walk through the streets and see reenactors dressed in period clothing, visit historic buildings, and even watch live demonstrations of trades like blacksmithing and weaving. Admission to the outdoor areas of Colonial Williamsburg costs nothing, but some indoor exhibits require tickets.

Touring Richmond’s Museums

Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is home to several museums that let you in for nothing. The Virginia Museum of History & Culture runs exhibits on Virginia’s past, its role in the Civil War among them. The Virginia State Capitol runs free tours that take you through the historic building and explain its significance in American history. The Valentine Museum runs exhibits on Richmond’s history and culture.

Arlington House and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Arlington House, sitting in Arlington National Cemetery, was the home of Robert E. Lee before the Civil War. Today it is a museum that tells the story of Lee and his family, along with the history of the Arlington estate. Admission costs nothing. While you are there, visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This solemn ceremony honors the soldiers who have given their lives for the country.

Interested in history, museums, or exhibits, Virginia runs plenty of free options to work. Take a step back in time and learn the long history of the Old Dominion.

Outdoor Adventures

An outdoors enthusiast? Virginia runs plenty of free outdoor adventures to work. Hiking trails through biking in the Blue Ridge Parkway, everybody is covered. Here are the best outdoor adventures in Virginia.

Hiking Trails and Parks

Virginia runs over 5000 miles of hiking trails and 37 state parks. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the Old Rag Mountain Trail, the McAfee Knob Trail and the White Oak Canyon Trail. These trails carry long views of Virginia’s natural beauty, waterfalls and forests and mountains among them. Bring plenty of water and snacks, wear comfortable shoes, and check the weather forecast before heading out.

Biking in the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile road that connects Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is a popular spot for biking, carrying long views of the Appalachian Mountains. The parkway runs several overlooks where you can stop and take the scenery. Bring a bike lock, water and snacks, and wear a helmet.

Fishing and Picnicking Spots

Virginia runs many lakes, rivers and streams where you can fish for nothing. Some of the most popular spots include the James River, the New River and Lake Anna. These spots run fish across the range, bass and trout and catfish among them. Check the fishing regulations before heading out.

After a place to have a picnic? Virginia runs plenty of options. Some of the most popular spots include the Maymont Park in Richmond, the Great Falls Park in McLean and the First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach. These parks run picnic tables, grills and scenic views. Bring your own food and drinks, and clean up after yourself.

Virginia suits outdoor enthusiasts. Looking to hike, bike, fish, or take a picnic, everybody is covered. So grab the gear and head out to work Virginia’s natural beauty.

Arts and Entertainment

After a dose of culture and entertainment in Virginia? You are in luck. Art tours through concerts and performances, the free things to do that satisfy the artistic cravings run plenty.

Art Tours in Alexandria

Alexandria is a hub of artistic activity, and several art tours run there for nothing. The Torpedo Factory Art Center should not be skipped by art lovers, with over 80 artist studios and galleries to work. You can also take a self-guided tour of the city’s many public art installations, murals and sculptures and mosaics among them. And stop by the Athenaeum, a historic building that now works as an art gallery and cultural center.

Concerts and Performances in Norfolk

Norfolk is home to a lively performing arts scene, with plenty of free concerts and performances to take. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra hosts a series of outdoor concerts in Town Point Park through the summer, running everything from classical music to pop hits. You can also catch free performances by local theater groups and dance companies at various venues around the city. Take the calendar of events at the Norfolk Arts District for more information.

Visiting the Art Museum

A fan of museums? Do not miss the chance to visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond. Admission to the museum always costs nothing, and you can work a vast collection of art from around the world. Ancient Egyptian artifacts through contemporary paintings, everybody is covered. The museum also hosts special exhibitions across the range through the year, so take the schedule to see what is on display.

Interested in art, music, or theater, Virginia runs plenty of free entertainment options to choose from. So why not take advantage of all the cultural offerings the state runs?

Start at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond and give it the whole of the morning. The State Capitol tour sits within easy walking reach of it in the same city out there. Drive out to the Blue Ridge Parkway afterwards and take the whole of the overlooks slowly. Nothing on that day costs anything at all.

Family-Friendly Activities

After fun activities to do with the family in Virginia? Plenty of options run here that do not break the bank. Here are the exciting things to do with the kids:

Fun at Mt. Trashmore

Mt. Trashmore is an unusual park sitting in Virginia Beach. It is built on top of a former landfill and runs two man-made mountains that carry long views of the city. The park runs plenty of activities for kids, playgrounds and picnic areas and a skate park among them. You can also bring the furry friend along, because a dog park sits on site. Mt. Trashmore is a strong place to spend a day with the family, and the best part is that it costs nothing.

Exploring the Udvar-Hazy Center

The Udvar-Hazy Center is an extension of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum sitting in Chantilly. This museum should not be skipped by families interested in aviation and space exploration. The museum runs an impressive collection of aircraft and spacecraft, the Space Shuttle Discovery and the Enola Gay among them. The museum also runs interactive exhibits that suit kids, flight simulators and an observation tower among them. Admission to the museum costs nothing, but parking fees do apply.

Visiting the McCormick Observatory

The McCormick Observatory sits in Charlottesville and is a strong place to take the family for a day of stargazing. The observatory runs a 26-inch telescope that lets visitors see the stars up close. The observatory also runs tours and educational programs that suit kids. The best part is that admission to the observatory costs nothing.

Overall, plenty of fun and exciting things to do with the family in Virginia cost nothing at all. Hiking in the mountains through working museums, everybody is covered. So pack a picnic and head out for a day of adventure with the loved ones.

Exploring the Wildlife

Wildlife lovers get plenty of free options in Virginia to work. Here are the best places to see animals in their natural habitats:

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Sitting on the eastern shore of Virginia, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is home to wildlife across the range, wild ponies and migratory birds and sea turtles among them. You can work the refuge on foot, by bike, or by car. Several trails and boardwalks run here that let you get up close to the animals and their habitats. Bring the camera and binoculars.

Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge

A short drive from Washington, D.C., Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a strong place to escape the city and see some wildlife. The refuge is home to bald eagles, ospreys, beavers and more. Several trails and observation platforms run here that let you get a closer look at the animals and their habitats. Bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water.

Great Dismal Swamp

The Great Dismal Swamp is an unusual wilderness area sitting in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. The swamp is home to wildlife across the range, black bears and bobcats and river otters among them. Several trails and boardwalks run here that let you work the swamp and see the animals up close. Bring insect repellent and sunscreen, because the swamp runs hot and buggy.

Nature lover or simply somebody after a fun day out, Virginia’s wildlife refuges run plenty of chances to work the outdoors either way. So grab the camera and head out to one of these destinations.

Unique Virginia Attractions

After unusual things to do in Virginia? You are in luck. Virginia is home to some of the most interesting and exciting attractions in the country. Here are three attractions not to be skipped, because they make the trip to Virginia stick.

Roanoke Star

One of the most iconic attractions in Virginia is the Roanoke Star. This giant illuminated star sits atop Mill Mountain and is visible from miles away. You can drive up to the top of Mill Mountain and take the long views of the surrounding area from the overlook. It suits a romantic evening or a family outing.

Luray Singing Tower

Another unusual attraction in Virginia is the Luray Singing Tower. This 117-foot tower is home to a carillon of 47 bells that chime every hour. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for long views of the Shenandoah Valley. The tower is also home to a museum showing the history of the carillon and the Luray Caverns.

Abingdon’s Virginia Creeper Trail

After an unusual outdoor adventure? Abingdon’s Virginia Creeper Trail is the answer. This 34-mile trail suits hiking, biking and horseback riding. The trail winds through the fine Virginia countryside and carries long views of the Appalachian Mountains. Along the way you pass through charming towns and historic landmarks.

These three attractions are only a few of the many unusual things to do in Virginia. After outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, or cultural experiences, Virginia covers all three. So pack the bags and get ready to work all that Virginia runs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some free things to do in Virginia Beach during the winter?

Virginia Beach is a popular tourist destination all year round, and even in the winter plenty of free things to do run there. Take a walk along the boardwalk and take the ocean views, or visit the First Landing State Park to work the hiking trails. You can also take the Virginia Beach Farmers Market and take the local produce.

What are some cheap activities to do in Virginia Beach?

After cheap activities in Virginia Beach? Plenty of options run there. You can rent a bike and work the boardwalk or visit the Military Aviation Museum. You can also take a tour of the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse or visit the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center.

What are some free things to do in Norfolk, VA?

Norfolk, VA runs a lot, and plenty of free things to do sit there. Take a stroll through the Norfolk Botanical Garden or visit the Chrysler Museum of Art. You can also work the Freemason Historic District or take a walk along the Elizabeth River Trail.

What are some free things to do in Richmond, VA?

Richmond, VA is full of history and culture, and plenty of free things to do run there. Visit the Virginia State Capitol or work the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. You can also take a walk along the Canal Walk or visit the Hollywood Cemetery.

What are some free things to do near me this weekend in Virginia?

After free things to do near you this weekend in Virginia? Plenty of options run here. You can visit the Virginia Beach Farmers Market or take a walk along the Virginia Capital Trail. You can also work the Colonial National Historical Park or visit the Virginia Museum of History and Culture.

What are some free museums to visit in Virginia?

Virginia is home to many museums, and plenty of free options run here. Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts or work the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. You can also take the Chrysler Museum of Art or visit the Virginia Aviation Museum.

Frequently asked questions about Free Things To Do in Virginia

How much exactly does the whole of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts actually cost out there, then, really now?

It charges nothing at all for the admission and it never has done out there. The collection runs from the ancient Egyptian artifacts right through to the contemporary paintings out there. Special exhibitions come and go, so check the schedule before you drive in. Free.

How big exactly is the whole of the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge out there, then, really now, in the end?

It covers 9,250 acres on the southern end of the whole of Virginia Beach out there. Miles of hiking trails and kayaking water run right through the middle of the whole of it. Migratory birds and deer and foxes all live on that same ground out there. Nothing.

How long exactly is the whole of Abingdon’s Virginia Creeper Trail out there, then, really now, in the end?

It runs 34 miles right through the countryside and the towns along the whole of the way. Hiking and biking and horseback riding all work on the whole of it out there. The Appalachian Mountains sit in view for a good part of the whole distance. Nothing.

Spread the love!