The list that follows are the attractions that were most viewed on Virginia.org in 2014. Which of these did you experience with your family and friends? Leave a comment with a review and any tips you’d like to share with fellow travelers.
1. LURAY CAVERNS | LURAY, VIRGINIA
Discover eastern America’s largest and most popular caverns. A US Natural Landmark noted for the profuse variety of formation and unsurpassed natural color. From well-lighted, paved walkways explore cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10 stories high, filled with towering stone columns and crystal-clear pools. Also hear the haunting sounds of the world’s only Stalacpipe Organ creating music of symphonic quality from stone formations. Read More
2. BUSCH GARDENS® | WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA
Each year, Busch Gardens® pushes the entertainment envelope to develop new and exciting thrills, award-winning shows and delicious culinary delights. Enjoy world-class thrills aboard Verbolten®, Busch Gardens’ newest attraction located in Oktoberfest. This multi-launch, indoor/outdoor roller coaster sends guests on a fun and mystifying family adventure through the Black Forest. Read More
3. SPLASHDOWN WATERPARK | MANASSAS, VIRGINIA
SplashDown Waterpark features five water areas and includes: two 70 ft. waterslides, two fast cannonball slides, 25 meter lap pool, a zero depth beach area, boat slide, water raindrops and bubbles, 770 ft. lazy river, funbrellas, children’s area with four water slides, shower facility, lockers, volleyball, tennis, and value meals with family prices! One admission price for all features, unlimited use during visit. Read More
4. KINGS DOMINION | DOSWELL, VIRGINIA
Grab your friends and family and come to Kings Dominion – Virginia’s ultimate destination for summertime fun! We’ve got 400 acres packed with more than 60 rides, shows and attractions — everything you need for creating lifelong memories. Thrill-seekers will get their fix with one of the East Coast’s largest collection of breath-taking roller coasters – a whopping 15 in all — including Intimidator 305™, which stretches 305 feet tall and screams at more than 90 miles per hour. Read More
5. MONTICELLO – HOME OF THOMAS JEFFERSON | CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA
No other home in the United States more accurately reflects the personality of its owner than Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s architectural masterpiece and beloved mountaintop home. Guided tours of the house are offered daily throughout the year; outdoor gardens and plantation tours are offered daily April-October. Children under 6 are free. Read More
6. MABRY MILL | MEADOWS OF DAN, VIRGINIA
Beautiful location that has been photographed and painted many times. Restored gristmill/sawmill/woodworking shop and blacksmith shop. Old time skills (basket weaving, seat caneing, spinning, and weaving) demonstrated. Read More
7. VIRGINIA AQUARIUM & MARINE SCIENCE CENTER | VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center hosts over 800,000 gallons of aquariums and live animal habitats focusing on Virginia’s diverse and unique marine environment. With more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a nature trail, an aviary, two animal touch pools and a 3D Giant Screen Theater, a visit to the Aquarium can be fun and educational. Read More
8. SIGNAL BAY WATERPARK AT SIGNAL HILL | MANASSAS, VIRGINIA
Signal Bay Waterpark is a 27,000 sq. ft. aquatic facility within Signal Hill Park featuring a zero depth entry leisure pool with water cannons, slides, and a lazy river. Read More
9. SHENANDOAH CAVERNS | QUICKSBURG, VIRGINIA
Shenandoah Caverns is the only Virginia cavern with elevator service and closest major cavern to I-81 (Exit 269). Our bacon formations are so unusual they were featured in National Geographic! A tour through our 17 soaring rooms takes approximately one hour and is 80% accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Visit our seasonal, authentic 1950’s soda fountain for a nolstagic trip back in time. Read More
10. BUGGS ISLAND LAKE (JOHN H. KERR RESERVOIR) | CLARKSVILLE, VIRGINIA
Visit Virginia’s largest lake! John H. Kerr Reservoir/Buggs Island Lake is more than 50,000 acres of fresh water with over 800 miles of beautiful shoreline. Surround yourself with natural beauty by launching a boat and see where it takes you. Read More
11. Splash Valley Water Park | Roanoke, Virginia
12. Mount Vernon, George Washington’s Estate and Garden | Mount Vernon, Virginia
13. Swannanoa Palace | Afton, Virginia
14. Virginia Safari Park | Natural Bridge, Virginia
15. Virginia Beach Ocean Breeze Waterpark | Virginia Beach, Virginia
16. Virginia Beach Boardwalk | Virginia Beach, Virginia
17. Cape Henry Lighthouses | Virginia Beach, Virginia
18. Jamestown Settlement | Williamsburg, Virginia
19. Grand Caverns | Grottoes, Virginia
20. Water Country USA | Williamsburg, Virginia
Great read! Love to see all the different attractions to see in Virginia! Every one should check out the canopy tours!