It's time for a little local pride, friends! Although lovers of vacation in general, our particular favorite is vacation to our own stomping ground aka the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. We also have great connections to Richmond and the DC area. According to US News, all three made the list of the 12 best U.S. Historic Destinations! Williamsburg (part of the Hampton Roads area) came in second, Washington, D.C. - third, and Richmond at eighth. So basically, that means not only is the state of Virginia generally as awesome as you can get, be we are a pinnacle in the story of our country. Now we are not saying Virginia is the best state ever, but... if you want to say that we would not disagree.
Now, while the list gives a good, concise description of each location, we want to take a minute to talk about how not only are the listed locations great, but some of the surrounding offering for historical greatness that can also be great stops on your history-charged vacation...
Williamsburg... Of course the name of the town is synonymous for visitors with the destination that is Colonial Williamsburg, but the town also offers a plethora of history right across the street at William & Mary. The university and its history plays a big role and will frequent conversation on your tour of Colonial Williamsburg.
Just a dash up the road is also the historical treasure that is Jamestowne. Visit the reconstructed ships, wander through the replica village, check out the latest discoveries from the archeological dig, and visit the wonderful educational center. Rounding out the Historic Triangle is another quick jaunt to Yorktown. As well as another wonderful visitor center offering, see another great living history interpretation.
Travel a bit west to #8 on their list and hit the great state capital, Richmond. But keep going a bit up the road and you are in Charlottesville and utopia for any fans of Thomas Jefferson. It is not only home to the University of Virginia, but also Jefferson's own house and architectural masterpiece Monticello. It is open for tours and a awe-inspiring experience.
We know that technically we don't have any claim to D.C., but a) it is a convenient destination and close to other important destinations that technically qualify as Northern Virginia, but even saying that, we are at the epicenter of historical greatness and we are pretty proud. That leads us to mention the gem of a destination that is Alexandria. This city offers not only great hotels and shopping, but is home to the house George Washington as well as several other important historical houses and establishments. If you are going to spend time in the great capital of our nation, be sure to take a day to enjoy the delightful stop just across the river.
Do you live in a destination that has a lot of history to offer? Do you have something you want to add to the list of great Virginia destinations? Let us know in the comments!
