Beautiful all year round, Virginia is a state that truly comes alive during the holiday season. While we might miss the warmer days of summer, there’s no denying that the chilly temperatures and occasional snowfall are irresistible. No matter the weather forecast, there are places around here that evoke the magic of the North Pole itself. So if you’d like to get in the spirit of things this season, here are 10 places to visit.
- Monument Avenue (Richmond)
Bill Dickinson/flickr This historic stretch in the heart of Richmond turns into a winter wonderland this time of year, especially with a dusting of snow. Enjoy strolling along the cobblestone road and admiring the famous monuments after which this street is named.
- Lubber Run Park (Arlington)
flickr/John Sonderman During warmer months, this spot is loved for its scenery and outdoor activities. But who’s to say winter has to be any different? Bundle up, pack a warm picnic, and enjoy this enchanting natural area. Address: 200 N Columbus St, Arlington, VA 22203.
- Wilderness Road State Park (Ewing)
Virginia State Parks/flickr Tucked away in southewestern Virginia, this breathtaking park becomes transformed during the winter months. If you’d like to experience true frontier spirit, be sure to plan your visit to Wilderness Road soon. Address: 8051 Wilderness Rd Trail, Ewing, VA 24248.
- Downtown Mall (Charlottesville)
Bob Mical/flickr The Downtown Mall is one of the most charming spots in Charlottesville, and that’s especially true during Christmastime. Stop into any number of beautiful boutiques or simply enjoy the outdoors with a hot chocolate in hand. Address: E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902.
- Cascade Falls (Giles County)
Dan Grogan/flickr Waterfall hikes might be the last thing on your mind when the temperatures drop, but what’s in store is simply breathtaking. The opportunity to see a frozen waterfall, such as Cascade Falls photographed above, is extraordinary. Address: 2068 Cascade Dr, Pembroke, VA 24136.
- Colonial Williamsburg
Brian Holland/flickr Horse-drawn carriage rides through the snow, homemade cider, fascinating architecture and more. All of these magical things await at Colonial Williamsburg, whose streets are possibly the most festive in the state when it comes to holiday cheer.
- A Local Vineyard
LAmeetsDC/flickr Even without any snowfall, there’s something awe-inspiring about vineyard fields during the off-season. And the warmth of fireplaces inside make the perfect atmosphere for sipping on a glass of local wine or simply enjoying the company. Photographed above is Breaux Vineyards in Purcellville.
- Wintergreen Resort (Afton)
ehpien/flickr Known for its ski slopes, Wintergreen has other winter activities for all skill levels. Whether you’re up for a thrilling tube ride or would rather cozy up in one of the cabins, Wintergreen is a magical place to spend a day or two. Address: Wintergreen Resort, Virginia 22967.
- Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens (Henrico)
Will Fisher/flickr During the better part of the year, Lewis Ginter attracts visitors for its gorgeous flower displays and gardens. This time of year, though, it’s the dazzling lights that will make you feel like you’ve just stepped into Santa’s North Pole. Address: 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228.
- The Homestead (Hot Springs)
Omni Homestead Resort/Facebook One of the oldest hotel resorts in the nation, the Homestead is even more breathtaking come holiday season. With a magnificent tree in the Great Hall, and local gift shops with holiday decor, the trip to Hot Springs is always worth the visit, even if only for an afternoon. You might even catch a glimpse of St. Nick himself! Address: 1766 Homestead Dr, Hot Springs, VA 24445.
What are some of your favorite holiday spots around Virginia that feel like the North Pole come Christmastime? Be sure to share them with us below!
Bill Dickinson/flickr
This historic stretch in the heart of Richmond turns into a winter wonderland this time of year, especially with a dusting of snow. Enjoy strolling along the cobblestone road and admiring the famous monuments after which this street is named.
flickr/John Sonderman
During warmer months, this spot is loved for its scenery and outdoor activities. But who’s to say winter has to be any different? Bundle up, pack a warm picnic, and enjoy this enchanting natural area. Address: 200 N Columbus St, Arlington, VA 22203.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Tucked away in southewestern Virginia, this breathtaking park becomes transformed during the winter months. If you’d like to experience true frontier spirit, be sure to plan your visit to Wilderness Road soon. Address: 8051 Wilderness Rd Trail, Ewing, VA 24248.
Bob Mical/flickr
The Downtown Mall is one of the most charming spots in Charlottesville, and that’s especially true during Christmastime. Stop into any number of beautiful boutiques or simply enjoy the outdoors with a hot chocolate in hand. Address: E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902.
Dan Grogan/flickr
Waterfall hikes might be the last thing on your mind when the temperatures drop, but what’s in store is simply breathtaking. The opportunity to see a frozen waterfall, such as Cascade Falls photographed above, is extraordinary. Address: 2068 Cascade Dr, Pembroke, VA 24136.
Brian Holland/flickr
Horse-drawn carriage rides through the snow, homemade cider, fascinating architecture and more. All of these magical things await at Colonial Williamsburg, whose streets are possibly the most festive in the state when it comes to holiday cheer.
LAmeetsDC/flickr
Even without any snowfall, there’s something awe-inspiring about vineyard fields during the off-season. And the warmth of fireplaces inside make the perfect atmosphere for sipping on a glass of local wine or simply enjoying the company. Photographed above is Breaux Vineyards in Purcellville.
ehpien/flickr
Known for its ski slopes, Wintergreen has other winter activities for all skill levels. Whether you’re up for a thrilling tube ride or would rather cozy up in one of the cabins, Wintergreen is a magical place to spend a day or two. Address: Wintergreen Resort, Virginia 22967.
Will Fisher/flickr
During the better part of the year, Lewis Ginter attracts visitors for its gorgeous flower displays and gardens. This time of year, though, it’s the dazzling lights that will make you feel like you’ve just stepped into Santa’s North Pole. Address: 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228.
Omni Homestead Resort/Facebook
One of the oldest hotel resorts in the nation, the Homestead is even more breathtaking come holiday season. With a magnificent tree in the Great Hall, and local gift shops with holiday decor, the trip to Hot Springs is always worth the visit, even if only for an afternoon. You might even catch a glimpse of St. Nick himself! Address: 1766 Homestead Dr, Hot Springs, VA 24445.
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