10 Best Couples Getaways in Virginia

A National Historic District, Alexandria is a cozy waterfront city with beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture. Take a leisurely stroll on the brick-lined streets of Old Town, the heart of the city. The charming King Street Trolley carries you down the main thoroughfare where you’ll find bakeries, boutiques, and a Sunday farmers’ market that’s been running for more than 250 years.

Washington, D.C. is just across the Potomac River from Alexandria, making for an easy day trip. If you prefer to admire the skyline from a distance, go sunset sailing on the river or dine al fresco at one of the many waterfront restaurants.

Shenandoah National Park is a breathtaking 200,000-acre stretch of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Take your pick – rugged adventure or easy retreat in the rolling green mountains and valleys. The infamous Skyline Drive, a National Scenic Byway, runs along the mountain ridge. Enjoy long scenic drives where you can stop at overlooks to soak in the splendor of Shenandoah Valley.

If it’s hiking you’re after, get ready to embark on more than 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail or one of the many trails scattered through the park. The peak of the Stony Man Trail provides an excellent sunset view, and Limberlost Trail is an easy trek with frequent resting points. Lodge at the longstanding Skyland Resort or bring your gear to set up camp in the wilderness.

The tiny town of Hot Springs is a true escape from the world. Bath County is so named because of the natural hot springs that feed its therapeutic pools. Come to this secluded community to quiet your mind and soothe your muscles in warm mineral waters. Omni Homestead Resort offers a full menu of therapeutic amenities, including a European-inspired outdoor spa and a reflexology walk.

In between dips in the pools, venture out into the beautiful wilderness. Hike the trails of Douthat State Park or paddle in a kayak on Douthat Lake. Follow a naturalist on a tour through Cascades Gorge, where you’ll see a series of waterfalls and learn about the region’s unique plant and animal life.

Hungry Mother State Park is a little slice of heaven on Earth. A peaceful, super-green area of forests and meadows, the park has a variety of trails for hiking and biking. At the center of it all, lies Hungry Mother Lake; picnic on the beach or take a dip in the cool waters. You may not have the place to yourselves, but it’s delightful just the same.

An excellent place to camp, the park’s campgrounds are well-kept and offer raised platforms for tents. Pitch your tent under the stars with your loved one and fall asleep to the night calls of the whippoorwills. When you wake, you’ll be greeted by the soft morning fog and a lakeside sunrise.

Grab your partner and head to the Tobacco Heritage Trail for a lovely day trip in southern Virginia. Once upon a time, the arrival of the railroad in this tobacco-producing region transformed it into an economic hub. What was formerly a railroad bed is now a paved trail for pedestrians, bikers, and travelers on horseback.

The trail takes visitors through forest, farmland, and across the Meherrin River. The wooded walk is a perfect backdrop for long conversations. Come with a packed lunch so you’re prepared for an impromptu picnic in one of the trailside cutaways.

Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, the charming city of Staunton is brimming with history and culture. A highlight of the city is the American Shakespeare Center, which hosts year-round performances of Shakespeare’s plays and contemporary theater. Experience the magic of theater in the intimate and immersive setting of the Blackfriars Playhouse.

The city offers lodgings in historic buildings that blend old-time character and modern convenience. Wander through Staunton’s downtown, which boasts more than 100 specialty stores, antique shops, art galleries, and restaurants in beautifully restored Victorian buildings. Photography enthusiasts should be sure to pop into the Camera Heritage Museum – a collection of 6,500 cameras from the 19th century to today.

Colonial Williamsburg is a fitting getaway for a couple of history buffs. The world’s largest living history museum, the warm ambiance, and authentic 18th-century atmosphere provide a fun and endearing atmosphere for a weekend away.

Tour the Governor’s Palace and the multitude of other historical buildings on site. Explore period-perfect shops and chat with tradespeople about the nature of their work. Raise a toast at the historic King’s Arms Tavern and sample colonial fare like brick oven ginger cakes. Admire centuries of folk art and furniture at 2 art museums and add a touch of magic to your evening with a theatrical performance or candlelit tour.

As the first and only national park dedicated to the performing arts, Wolf Trap is a singular experience. This venue-in-the-woods hosts about 80 performances each May through September that include rock concerts, opera, jazz, musicals, and everything in between.

The stunning Filene Center is an open-air venue with an intimate feel and a sprawling lawn. Grab a seat in the 7,000-capacity theater for the best acoustics or lounge on the lawn with snacks and a drink, an experience in itself. In between your evening shows, spend afternoons walking the nature trails on the Wolf Trap grounds or visit the gorgeous gardens at nearby Meadowlark Botanical Gardens.

Tangier is a remote island in the Chesapeake Bay known for its fresh-caught seafood and slow-paced lifestyle. A true escape from the world, the island is a fishing community of 400 friendly residents. Lodge in one of the waterfront properties of the Sunset Inn or at the Chesapeake House, which serves its guests big family-style dinners.

The best time to visit is between April and October when the bay waters are warm. Take walks along the quiet beach where the surf comes in softly and see herons and pelicans gliding overhead. Make sure to stop at Lorraine’s for a wide selection of fresh seafood, including exceptional crab cakes and cream of crab soup.

A sweeping green expanse between the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley is a picturesque backdrop for your romantic getaway. Follow the winding Shenandoah River as you explore small towns dotting the landscape and stay the night in a cozy bed and breakfast. Get a bird’s eye view of the valley in a hot air balloon ride or from the stunning overlooks along Skyline Drive.

The region is home to a number of exceptional wineries with gorgeous mountain views. Muse Vineyards is a hilltop hidden gem at the north end of the valley serving a diverse selection of wines. Work up an appetite with a hike in Shenandoah National Park, then head to Muse for tastings and charcuterie.