The 14 Best Free Things to Do in Virginia!
Virginia is an incredibly varied state with all kinds of fun, free activities for all ages. Whether you’re near the coast or in Appalachia country, there’s always something to do. Shake up your day by checking out one of these 14 free things to do in Virginia!
Visit Virginia Beach
Virginia has many beaches all along the east coast. Try out the Virginia Beach Oceanfront if you like lots of people and a party atmosphere. Prefer quiet solitude? Try Sandbridge or Oceanview. You could always go for a walk at the Chesapeake Bay or Chicks Beach. The beach is open during every season, and each season offers its own reason to go.
Go for a nature walk
Virginia has many wonderful parks, including First Landing State Park and the Shenandoah National Park. Take in a day of natural beauty on a nature walk through any of the many paths. Sit by a lake or train under a waterfall. Read a book or paint a painting. The setting couldn’t be more perfect.
Hike the Appalachian Trail
Many parts of Virginia provide perfect access to the Appalachian Trail, and hiking is totally free. Make sure you bring a buddy and proper equipment, but an afternoon climbing atop the mountains could give you a whole new outlook.
Tour historic districts
Virginia is the oldest state in the Union, and as such has an incredibly long and varied history. Learn more about the history of the Commonwealth by visiting any of the Old Towns in Norfolk, Portsmouth, Alexandria, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Jamestown, and more!
Visit Maymont Park in Richmond
Maymont Park is one of Richmond’s most incredible sights. The 100-acre park has a nature center, Japanese gardens, a petting zoo, and manicured lawn. There is a suggested donation, but overall the beautiful park is open to the public to enjoy.
See a working farm at the Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon
The Frying Pan Farm Park preserves farm life from the 1900s for present day park-goers to experience. There’s a blacksmith shop, smoke house, and various live animals. The park is sure to delight adults and kids with its varied activities.
Visit Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area covers 200,000 acres and 500 miles of trails and natural wildlife. The highest peak in Virginia is within its limits. Visits can avail themselves of the hiking, fishing, swimming, and many other activities.
See the Great Dismal Swamp
The Great Dismal Swamp is a natural wonder, and unlike anything you’re likely to have seen. Not only does the swamp have an eerie serenity, but Lake Drummond has over 200 species of wildlife. The swamp is on over 112,000 acres, providing a true primordial experience.
Look at the stars at McCormick Observatory
The McCormick Observatory at University of Virginia has public tours and solar education through the high-powered telescope. Make sure to call ahead to learn more about the Public Nights, as weather can affect when the telescope is available.
Go to a farmers market
Virginia has a vast number of working farms of all different kinds, and most cities and counties have a farmer’s market on Saturday. We listed some of the best in a different article, so make sure to check those out for the freshest ingredients around!
Go to a museum
Many museums have free entry, including the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum. “Located in the historically registered DeWitt cottage built in 1895, the Atlantic Wildlife Heritage Museum displays art and artifacts documenting migratory wildfowl that pass through Eastern Virginia.” Woodcarving demonstrations, decoys, and an impressive collection make for a fun afternoon. Other museums include the Old Dominion Railway Museum, and the Richmond National Battlefield Park Civil War Center.
Go on a ghost hunt at Hollywood Cemetery
Ghost stories haunt the Commonwealth in almost every city, but if you find yourself in Richmond, Virginia, you might want to check out Hollywood Cemetery. Legend has it that a vampire from England stills rests in one of the mausoleums. Just make sure you bring a clove of garlic.
Check out a historic church
Patrick Henry delivered his famous “give me liberty or give me death” speech at St. John’s Church in Richmond, Virginia. The church is one of the oldest in the state and still has an active congregation that meets every Sunday.
See where the chips fall
The Route 11 Potato Chip Factory is open to the public for viewing sessions. Visit the Mt. Jackson factory to watch, sample, and purchase.
