A state that has a slogan that ends in “…is for lovers” is sure to peak my attention. I remember trying to figure out what exactly that meant:) But when you travel to Virginia you realize that “for lovers” means so many things! History lovers, nature lovers, animal lovers, culture lovers, quiet and/or bustle lovers, depending on where you are.
I was introduced to the lovely state of Virginia over 13 years ago, when my husband and I drove down to visit his sister and her family for the first time. Two things blew the mind of this girl from a tiny Baltic country back then – an 11 hour road trip and the amazing scenery both on the way to and in Virginia. I hadn’t been used to the enormous distances that this vast country offers before and felt like I can do almost certainly anything I put my mind to after this trip.
We set out at the beginning of April and watching the trees get greener and blooms more colorful as we went further and further South was priceless.
We have gone there countless times since and every time we discover something totally new and absolutely worth visiting. Mostly because I believe that if you go through the trouble of traveling this far, you might as well make it count, wouldn’t you agree?
If you have never been to Virginia, you should seriously consider going.
Virginia is an amazing place to visit if you are an ESL teacher. Why? Because there is so much history there (the Civil War, and the first President’s home are just a couple of things to consider) that you will have a terrific time relating it to your students when they are totally overwhelmed with the history of the United States. And it has the mountains and the beach. And it is warm. Like, really warm.
What do you think? If you’re still on the fence, here is a list of places that I recommend to see while you are there.
Note: I don’t think there is a way of avoiding history there. No matter where you turn, there is a battlefield here, a memorial there or a museum – no matter how tiny – right in front of you. So, unsurprisingly, the list of places to visit contains lots of historical sites. But trust me, they are far from boring.
George Washington’s boyhood home
at Ferry Farm in Fredericksburg, VA. This is a place by the Rappahannok River where the young president-to-be grew up. A very serene place with beautifully maintained gardens. Here is more information.
While you’re at it, visit Fredericksburg itself. Such a beautiful and cozy town with historic charm. Walking around will bring you to a different era and when you get hungry, be sure to check out Ristorante Renato. Besides serving superb Italian cuisine, their Cafe Diablo is to die for!
(source of photo: pixabay.com)
Mount Vernon
Although I personally haven’t been there (don’t ask me why! probably tried but couldn’t get in?:) but I’ve heard amazing things about it and that is totally the next place I’m going. It is not for no reason that many 8th grade graduation trips include a visit to Mount Vernon.
(source of photo: pixabay.com)
One of my boys was super into the Civil War and anything and everything military a few years ago, so upon his request, we visited a few of the battlefields in Virginia – Battlefield of Chancelorsville is just one of the countless areas to explore. It will feel more like a walk in the park and you will have to imagine a lot but it will be totally worth it to be in nature. Here is the link to check them out – Civil War Battlefields.
(source of photo: pixabay.com)
Monticello
I have always wanted to visit the place of this president, scholar and inventor. And I was not disappointed. Set in a more remote location atop of a hill, his majestic estate overlooks the mountains and is engineered to have the breeze going in and out of it throughout the day. Guided tours are superb and give so much insight into the life in 18th century and Thomas Jefferson himself. Here is a link for more information – Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
(source of photo: pixabay.com)
Shenandoah Skyline Drive
If you’ve ever been to mountains, you will know that a mountain will not disappoint. Ever. We have a beautiful Kangamangus Highway in New Hampshire and there is the Skyline Drive going over the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. One word, three syllables Ah-Ma-Zing. If you don’t go to any of the places I mentioned earlier or will mention, do yourself a favor and take yourself to the Shenandoah Skyline Drive!
Luray Caverns
Deep in the mountain, there are rock formations that hang and protrude and glisten and sound. Luray Caverns in Luray, Virginia will give you an unforgettable lesson in geology coupled with amazing views and an overall awe-inspiring experience. Check their website here for more information.
(source of photo: pixabay.com)
Lexington
Small town, big charm. Lexington, VA is a town where not one but two Civil War generals are buried – Robert E.Lee and Stonewall Jackson. It is also a university town (Washington and Lee University) so it has the air filled with youth and intellectual inquisitiveness coupled with quaint shops and eateries.
Virginia Animal Safari
Ever watch those videos where people feed animals from their cars? Yep, this is the place to do it!Virginia Animal Safari is home to a superb “collection” of animal species from all over the world. Llamas, bison, kangaroos, and more are ready to communicate with you, even though it’s just for food:) You can venture in your own car or hire a wagon ride with a helpful tractor driver-guide who will provide information about the animals and the story of the park itself.
Quantico Marine museum.
Absolutely free and superbly presented. Very interactive, very thought provoking. I must’ve visited a dozen of military museum because I have sons, but this one, in my opinion, is by far one of the best. Check it out here.
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Jamestown
I love learning history through experience. Jamestown is a place that will bring you back in time will allow you to understand more in-depth where it all started. There is a village where you can see the living conditions of the 17th century and the children can get dressed like soldiers of the time period and march around. There is also the ship in the harbor on the James river that helps you visualize how the travelers from England came over. A trip to historicWilliamsburg and Jamestown are totally worth a day or even two – there is so much to see and absorb. Here is more information about both Jamestown and Williamsburg.
This list is by far not final, but, rather, a great beginning. Go ahead, explore it!
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Have you ever been to Virginia? If so, what is your must-see there? Share in the comments below!