Virginia
Photo of AI-VascoDaGama
AI-VascoDaGama
28 Sep 2025
ShareShare
Edit Trip Edit
Bookmark TripSave

10 Best Places for Weekend Getaways from Virginia Beach, VA

Weekend Getaways from Virginia Beach: An Unforgettable Itinerary

Embark on a journey of discovery with these ten incredible weekend getaways from Virginia Beach, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Start your adventure with the living history town of Williamsburg, where colonial reenactments and vibrant shops evoke America’s past. Continue to the Outer Banks, NC, where pristine beaches and wild horses await. Explore Richmond for its dynamic arts, food, and historic sites, or head to Chincoteague Island to witness wild ponies and serene wildlife refuges.

Travel to Shenandoah National Park for breathtaking mountains, scenic drives, and abundant trails, or immerse yourself in national history at Washington, DC’s iconic monuments and museums. Discover Charlottesville’s lush vineyards, Jefferson’s Monticello, and a lively college town vibe. Visit Assateague Island National Seashore for unspoiled beaches and free-roaming wild horses. Relax in Cape Charles, a charming bayside town with beautiful sunsets and friendly faces, and finish your adventure in Norfolk, a vibrant waterfront city with world-class museums and botanical gardens. Each destination promises refreshing experiences and memorable moments, perfect for a rejuvenating escape from Virginia Beach.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Williamsburg, VA

    Experience living history at Colonial Williamsburg, enjoy unique shops and traditional taverns, and explore nearby attractions like Busch Gardens amusement park and Jamestown Settlement.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin2

    Outer Banks, NC

    Relax on beautiful, uncrowded beaches, discover charming coastal towns, see the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and enjoy outdoor activities like kite flying, lighthouse tours, and wild horse watching.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Richmond, VA

    Explore a vibrant arts and food scene, tour Civil War-era historic sites, stroll through scenic parks and gardens along the James River, and visit renowned museums like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Chincoteague Island, VA

    Visit for its charming small-town atmosphere, unique wild ponies, beautiful beaches, and the chance to explore Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge with its diverse wildlife and scenic trails.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Shenandoah National Park

    Ideal for hiking, breathtaking mountain vistas, scenic Skyline Drive, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife—all within a tranquil and picturesque natural setting.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin6

    Washington, DC

    Explore world-class museums and monuments on the National Mall, vibrant neighborhoods with diverse dining, the historic Capitol, and free entry to many renowned attractions.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin7

    Charlottesville, VA

    Visit for its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, including Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, scenic vineyards, the University of Virginia campus, and a lively downtown area.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin8

    Assateague Island National Seashore

    Experience pristine beaches, swim in the Atlantic, see wild horses roaming free, and enjoy outdoor adventures like kayaking, hiking, and bird watching in a unique coastal ecosystem.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin9

    Cape Charles, VA

    Enjoy the laid-back charm of this bayside town with its lovely beaches, historic downtown, fresh seafood, golf courses, and beautiful sunsets over the Chesapeake Bay.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin10

    Norfolk, VA

    Discover a vibrant waterfront city with attractions like the USS Wisconsin battleship, engaging museums, beautiful botanical gardens, lively arts and dining scenes, and easy access to beaches.
    Open Google Maps Button

Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    Food For Thought

    4.7
    $$$$

    Food For Thought

    Located in Williamsburg, this restaurant features thought-provoking quotes on the walls and a diverse menu with creative twists on classic American dishes.
    4.7
    $$$$
    Picture for Food For Thought
  • Restaurant Icon

    The White Dog Bistro

    4.8

    The White Dog Bistro

    Set in an 1840s mansion in Mathews, this bistro offers inventive cuisine and an eclectic, dog-themed decor for a whimsical dining experience.
    4.8
    Picture for The White Dog Bistro
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Shack on 8th

    4.4
    $$$$

    The Shack on 8th

    In Virginia Beach, The Shack is an open-air spot with tropical vibes, games, and local seafood served in a lively, beachy atmosphere.
    4.4
    $$$$
    Picture for The Shack on 8th
  • Restaurant Icon

    Leaping Lizard Cafe

    4.7
    $$$$

    Leaping Lizard Cafe

    A quirky, farm-to-table cafe in Virginia Beach, this spot is in a charming cottage filled with antiques and offers locally sourced, seasonal cuisine.
    4.7
    $$$$
    Picture for Leaping Lizard Cafe
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Grilled Cheese Bistro

    4.7
    $$$$

    The Grilled Cheese Bistro

    Located in Norfolk, this eatery specializes in creative, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches in a hip, eclectic setting.
    4.7
    $$$$
    Picture for The Grilled Cheese Bistro

Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    Wedmore Place

    4.6

    Wedmore Place

    Located at Williamsburg Winery, this boutique hotel offers uniquely themed European-style rooms with vineyard views, perfect for wine lovers.
    4.6
    Picture for Wedmore Place
  • Hotel Icon

    Quirk Hotel Richmond

    4.3

    Quirk Hotel Richmond

    A converted historic department store, this boutique hotel features art galleries, a rooftop bar, colorful modern decor, and curated exhibits.
    4.3
    Picture for Quirk Hotel Richmond
  • Hotel Icon

    Historic Cavalier Hotel

    4.6

    Historic Cavalier Hotel

    Situated in Virginia Beach, this grand hotel dates back to 1927 and boasts elegant architecture, a hidden speakeasy, and a distillery on site.
    4.6
    Picture for Historic Cavalier Hotel
  • Hotel Icon

    The Inn at Onancock

    4.9

    The Inn at Onancock

    A charming B&B on Virginia's Eastern Shore, each room is themed after a different country and the inn offers luxury linens, wine hour, and gourmet breakfasts.
    4.9
    Picture for The Inn at Onancock
  • Hotel Icon

    The Graduate Charlottesville

    7.9

    The Graduate Charlottesville

    Retro collegiate-themed hotel in downtown Charlottesville, blending quirky décor and academic nostalgia with modern comforts and a lively rooftop bar.
    7.9
    Picture for The Graduate Charlottesville

Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 10, 2026

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 10, 2026

    The event will take place at Colonial Downs in New Kent.
    Map IconColonial Downs in New Kent (21.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon10 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Colonial Downs 2026 - March 10, 2026
  • Event Icon

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 11, 2026

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 11, 2026

    The event will take place at Colonial Downs in New Kent.
    Map IconColonial Downs in New Kent (21.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon11 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Colonial Downs 2026 - March 11, 2026
  • Event Icon

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 12, 2026

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 12, 2026

    The event will take place at Colonial Downs in New Kent.
    Map IconColonial Downs in New Kent (21.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon12 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Colonial Downs 2026 - March 12, 2026
  • Event Icon

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 13, 2026

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 13, 2026

    The event will take place at Colonial Downs in New Kent.
    Map IconColonial Downs in New Kent (21.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Colonial Downs 2026 - March 13, 2026
  • Event Icon

    Colonial Downs 2026 VA Derby

    Colonial Downs 2026 VA Derby

    The event will take place at Colonial Downs in New Kent.
    Map IconColonial Downs in New Kent (21.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Colonial Downs 2026 VA Derby
  • Event Icon

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 15, 2026

    Colonial Downs 2026 - March 15, 2026

    The event will take place at Colonial Downs in New Kent.
    Map IconColonial Downs in New Kent (21.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Colonial Downs 2026 - March 15, 2026
  • Event Icon

    Beach Boys

    Beach Boys

    The event will take place at Ferguson Center for the Arts Concert Hall in Newport News.
    Map IconFerguson Center for the Arts Concert Hall in Newport News (40.71 mi)
    Calendar Icon9 Nov 2025
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Beach Boys

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    10 votes, 23 comments. Anyone have any recommendations for good weekend trips? The only criteria is that its within a 5-6ish hour drive maximum, and

    Weekend trip recommendations?

    10 votes, 23 comments. Anyone have any recommendations for good weekend trips? The only criteria is that its within a 5-6ish hour drive maximum, and

    /r/VirginiaBeach
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    A place for all residents and visitors of Virginia Beach to discuss the area, ask questions, make announcements, and etc. ... I'm looking for a couple of good weekend get...

    Weekend Getaway

    A place for all residents and visitors of Virginia Beach to discuss the area, ask questions, make announcements, and etc. ... I'm looking for a couple of good weekend get...

    /r/VirginiaBeach
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi everyone! I live in New York and will be visiting friends from Virginia Beach, and while I'm there we're interested in spending a few days in

    Fun weekend trip from Virginia Beach?

    Hi everyone! I live in New York and will be visiting friends from Virginia Beach, and while I'm there we're interested in spending a few days in

    /r/VirginiaBeach
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Hey guys, so me and 5 others (3 couples) have decided to visit Virginia in July for vacation, and I was just wanting some suggestions on where to

    What's the best weekend vacation spot in Virginia that's not Virginia Beach?

    Hey guys, so me and 5 others (3 couples) have decided to visit Virginia in July for vacation, and I was just wanting some suggestions on where to

    /r/Virginia
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi hi! I'm planning a weekend trip for two to Virginia. I'd appreciate any recommendations you can share. These are the Virginia cities I'm

    Looking for suggestions for a weekend trip to Virginia

    Hi hi! I'm planning a weekend trip for two to Virginia. I'd appreciate any recommendations you can share. These are the Virginia cities I'm

    /r/Virginia
    View on RedditView on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    A classic travel anthem that perfectly captures the excitement of setting off on a new adventure.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live
  • Music Icon

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Upbeat and joyful, this song’s rhythmic energy is ideal for keeping spirits high on the open road.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way
  • Music Icon

    Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive

    Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive

    A fun, energetic tune that injects enthusiasm into any road trip playlist.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive
  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    This laid-back classic encourages relaxation and soaking in the scenery as you travel.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster
  • Music Icon

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    With themes of exploration and belonging, it’s a sentimental favorite for journeying between destinations.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home
  • Music Icon

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    A reflective, melodic tune about seeking new opportunities on life’s highways.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Tracy Chapman - Fast Car
  • Music Icon

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    An invigorating song that makes any drive feel like an adventurous journey.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway
  • Music Icon

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    Captures the spirit of friendship and exploring together.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'
  • Music Icon

    The Rolling Stones - Sweet Virginia

    The Rolling Stones - Sweet Virginia

    A fitting tribute with Southern charm, perfect for your Virginia travels.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for The Rolling Stones - Sweet Virginia
  • Music Icon

    Don McLean - American Pie

    Don McLean - American Pie

    An uplifting, nostalgic song about travel, discovery, and searching for meaning across the country.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Don McLean - American Pie