Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Virginia: Enjoying the Area Without Breaking the Bank
Virginia is among the United States’ most historic sites. The state has much to offer from cobblestone streets in Colonial Williamsburg to the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park.
Even though some attractions may be expensive, there are plenty of things you can do on a budget. This article lists some of the best free and low-cost activities in Virginia so that you can enjoy your time here without breaking the bank.
Explore Historic Jamestowne
One of the free activities in Virginia is visiting Historic Jamestowne in Williamsburg. This living history museum celebrates the first permanent English settlement in North America and is jointly managed by Preservation Virginia and the National Park Service. You can explore the archaeological remains on-site at no cost, though there is a small fee to access the visitor center and museum.
To make your visit worthwhile, tag along with a ranger-led tour where they share stories about early Jamestown settlers who faced difficulties but eventually succeeded. The park rangers have deep knowledge on these events, so their narrations are always interesting, making this place even more fascinating.
Take a Drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway
For awe-inspiring mountain scenery, take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This national parkway runs 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands, connecting Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The speed limit is just 45 miles per hour, allowing you to soak up gorgeous vistas along the way.
Stop at overlooks and walkways to be immersed in the lush forests, rolling meadows, and craggy peaks. Be sure to stretch your legs on one of the many hiking trails interspersed along the route. Entry to the parkway itself is free, making this scenic road trip extremely budget-friendly.
Explore Arlington National Cemetery
Pay your respects to our nation's heroes by exploring the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery. This solemn site offers a glimpse into our country's history with historical monuments and the gravesites of prominent figures.
Some key sites you can visit at no cost include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier guarded 24/7 by Tomb Sentinels, the grave of President John F. Kennedy with its eternal flame, and the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial honoring fallen astronauts. You can also observe funeral processions and memorial services held regularly within the cemetery.
Access to the cemetery grounds is free, but a small fee is charged for parking.
Take in Stunning Views on Old Rag Mountain
For breath-taking valley panoramas, embark on the Old Rag Mountain hike in Shenandoah National Park. This 9-mile loop trail leads you across rocky scrambles and through thick forests to the summit. You'll enjoy nonstop views along the ridge before descending by way of the gorgeous Saddle Trail.
The best part about this adventurous hike is that Shenandoah National Park entry only costs $30 per vehicle for a week pass. Splitting the fee among a group makes enjoying these mountain vistas very affordable. Just remember to bring plenty of water and snacks to fuel your trek.
Relax at Virginia Beach
You can't visit coastal Virginia without spending a day relaxing at Virginia Beach along the Atlantic Oceanfront. The sandy shoreline stretches for miles, with plenty of space to lay out a towel and enjoy free beach access. If you want to be active, go for a peaceful walk along the boardwalk or play a pickup game of volleyball.
Pack a picnic lunch and drinks to dine by the sea without paying high costs at local restaurants. You could also visit Neptune's Park near the boardwalk, which features larger-than-life statues and fountains for great photo ops. Enjoy a stunning oceanside sunset before calling it a night.
Conclusion
From rich history to breathtaking scenery, Virginia offers boundless beauty and intrigue. While some attractions can put a dent in your wallet, there are also a variety of free and low-cost places to visit and things to experience.
Whether you go hiking along mountain ridges, explore living history museums, or relax at the beach, you're sure to have an unforgettable visit that won't break the bank. So, get out and explore Virginia on a budget!
