Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable getaway, Virginia is your one-stop destination.
Known for its rich historical background and natural beauty, Virginia is a veritable treasure trove for family vacations.
From the verdant Blue Ridge Mountains to the beautiful beaches of Virginia Beach, the state offers a plethora of experiences to keep your whole clan entertained and engrossed.
These gems make Virginia one of the top choices for family vacations.
Ready to make lasting memories with your loved ones in the Old Dominion?
Pack your bags and set your course with the help of this list of the best family vacations in Virginia.
Best Family Vacations in Virginia Compared
Discover the ultimate family getaways in Virginia.
From historic Williamsburg to scenic Shenandoah National Park, we’ve curated our top picks to make your vacation unforgettable.
Editor’s Choice
The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection
The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection in Virginia is a luxurious historic hotel in Atlantic Avenue known for its elegant charm and breathtaking oceanfront views.
- Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
- Family Accommodations: 4/5
- Dining Options: 4/5
- Safety and Security: 4/5
- Value for Money: 3/5
- Location and Accessibility: 5/5
#2nd Best Choice
Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront, two miles from Virginia Beach Boardwalk, is a luxurious beachfront hotel with stunning views and upscale amenities.
- Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
- Family Accommodations: 4/5
- Dining Options: 4/5
- Safety and Security: 4/5
- Value for Money: 3/5
- Location and Accessibility: 4/5
#3rd Best Choice
Kingsmill Resort
Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, you’ll have a swell time indulging in the resort’s luxury amenities.
- Kid-friendly Activities: 5/5
- Family Accommodations: 5/5
- Dining Options: 4/5
- Safety and Security: 4/5
- Value for Money: 4/5
- Location and Accessibility: 4/5
Here are the top 11 vacations in Virginia for families.
1. The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection (Editor’s Choice)
4200 Atlantic Ave,
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
(757) 425-8555
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The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection in Virginia is a luxurious historic hotel in Atlantic Avenue known for its elegant charm and breathtaking oceanfront views.
The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection in Virginia is a luxurious historic hotel in Atlantic Avenue known for its elegant charm and breathtaking oceanfront views.
Ratings Criteria
- Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
- Family Accommodations: 4/5
- Dining Options: 4/5
- Safety and Security: 4/5
- Value for Money: 3/5
- Location and Accessibility: 5/5
Pros
- Historic charm: The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection is known for its rich history and elegant ambiance.
- Luxurious amenities: Families can indulge in pampering treatments and enjoy a variety of on-site activities, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable vacation.
Cons
- Higher price range: The upscale nature of The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection is reflected in its higher price range.
- Limited beach access: While the resort is located in Virginia Beach, its beach access may be limited due to the presence of private residences.
Who should vacation here
The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection in Virginia is the perfect vacation destination for those seeking a luxurious and unforgettable experience.
Ideal for couples, families, and individuals looking for a serene beach getaway, The Cavalier offers breathtaking ocean views, top-notch amenities, and impeccable service.
Indulge in world-class dining, relax by the poolside, pamper yourself at the spa, or explore the vibrant local attractions.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, The Cavalier Virginia Beach is the ultimate destination for a truly memorable vacation.
Expert tip
Start your day with a stroll along the stunning coastline.
Indulge in the hotel’s luxurious amenities, including the spa and rooftop infinity pool.
Don’t miss dining at the renowned Becca restaurant for a culinary delight.
Related: Restaurants in Virginia Beach, VA
Related: Best Family Beaches in Virginia
2. Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront
4201 Atlantic Ave
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
(757) 937-4200
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Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront, two miles from Virginia Beach Boardwalk, is a luxurious beachfront hotel with stunning views and upscale amenities.
Ratings Criteria
- Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
- Family Accommodations: 4/5
- Dining Options: 4/5
- Safety and Security: 4/5
- Value for Money: 3/5
- Location and Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Beachfront location: The Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront offers direct access to the beach, making it an ideal choice for families who prioritize beach activities and water sports.
- Family-friendly amenities: The hotel provides a range of family-friendly amenities, such as a pool, children’s activities, and spacious rooms.
Cons
- Crowded environment: Families seeking a quieter and more secluded vacation might find the bustling atmosphere overwhelming.
- Standardized experience: As a larger chain hotel, the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront might offer a more standardized experience compared to smaller boutique resorts.
Who should vacation here
If you’re seeking a memorable vacation experience, Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront in Virginia is the ideal destination for you.
Whether you’re a family looking for a beach getaway, a couple in search of a romantic retreat, or a solo traveler seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, this oceanfront resort caters to all.
Enjoy breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and an array of amenities, including pools, spa services, and delectable dining options.
Create lasting memories and unwind in the coastal charm of Virginia Beach at Marriott.
Expert tip
When visiting Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront in Virginia, follow these expert tips for a memorable stay.
Enjoy stunning beach views, indulge in fresh seafood at the on-site restaurant, and take advantage of the hotel’s direct access to the ocean.
Don’t miss exploring the vibrant local dining and entertainment options nearby.
Related: Where to Eat in Williamsburg
Related: Best Things to Do in Virginia
3. Kingsmill Resort
1010 Kingsmill Rd #5576
Williamsburg, VA 23185
(800) 832-5665
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Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, you’ll have a swell time indulging in the resort’s luxury amenities.
Ratings Criteria
- Kid-friendly Activities: 5/5
- Family Accommodations: 5/5
- Dining Options: 4/5
- Safety and Security: 4/5
- Value for Money: 4/5
- Location and Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Abundance of activities: Kingsmill Resort offers an extensive range of activities for families, including golf, tennis, spa treatments, and a water park.
- Scenic location: Families can engage in activities like fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Cons
- Distance from the beach: While Kingsmill Resort offers a riverside location, it is not directly situated on the oceanfront.
- Resort fees: Kingsmill Resort charges additional resort fees, which can increase the overall cost of the vacation.
Who should vacation here
If you want to spend your vacation days working on your golf swing, or on the water, you’ll love it at Kingsmill Resort.
There’s also a tennis court and a spa with refreshing massages and beauty treatments.
Likewise, it has a waterpark, a playground and a kids’ club to keep your little ones entertained for days.
Expert tip
We recommend staying at the resort’s deluxe room with 2 double beds.
Not only does it cushy full beds, but it also has convenient amenities.
And, it has a max capacity of 4 adults and 2 children as well.
Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Virginia
4. Berry Hill
3105 River Rd
South Boston, VA 24592
(434) 517-7000
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They don’t call Berry Hill one of the best and most luxurious family resorts in Virginia for nothing.
Who should vacation here
Berry Hill takes relaxation and luxury into a new level with its first-class service and elegant ambiance.
With a park-like setting, the resort also provides ample opportunities for horseback riding, hiking and swimming.
Moreover, there are outdoor leisure games here, like cornhole.
Expert tip
The deluxe double room is perfect for larger families.
With 2 full beds, this room comfortably accommodates up to 4 adults and 3 children.
There are also interconnecting rooms available for this option.
5. Alexandria
Alexandria, VA
(703) 746-4311
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Alexandria is an ideal getaway for anyone aching for family trips with a heavy dose of history, Southern hospitality, Instagram-worthy sights and culture.
Who should vacation here
With its old-fashioned charm, Alexandria makes a terrific destination for families with school-age kids and Instagram-loving teens.
Old Town Alexandria lures families with its elaborate historical architecture and abundant restaurants and shops.
For those who want a spookier insight into the town’s past, take a ghost tour.
And guess what?
Alexandria also offers access to several family vacations near Virginia, including Washington DC.
Expert tip
The King Street Trolley and King Street Metro make getting around the city easy for families.
In fact, these modes of transport let you conveniently explore the attractions in D.C. and Old Town.
Recommended Hotel: Hilton Alexandria Old Town
Also See:
Hotels in Alexandria
6. Shenandoah National Park
3655 U.S. Highway 211 East
Luray, VA 22835
(540) 999-3500
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No list of the best fun things to do in Virginia with kids is complete without a getaway to the breathtaking Shenandoah National Park.
Who should vacation here
For a cheap family vacation, plan a trip to Shenandoah National Park.
Known for its fall foliage and stunning scenery, the park offers plenty of cheap family-centric activities, like picnics and hiking.
There are also kid-friendly programs covering everything from meadows to birds.
Expert tip
Skyline Drive is an excellent way to see the national park.
Snaking through valleys and hills, this drive offers photo opportunities and striking vantage points from tons of overlooks.
Recommended Hotel: Hotel Laurance
Related: Best Beaches in Virginia
7. Chincoteague
Chincoteague, VA
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Chincoteague is one of the most picturesque and tranquil kid-friendly weekend getaways in Virginia.
Who should vacation here
Chincoteague beckons nature and animal lovers with its wild ponies and serene, scenic coastal beauty.
The main attraction here is the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge where you’ll spot horses, waterfowl and birds.
Families can also go boating, hiking and fishing in Chincoteague.
Expert tip
Avoid touching, feeding or approaching the animals in Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.
While these gorgeous animals may look tame, they are still wild creatures.
Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Chincoteague
8. Richmond
Richmond, VA
(800) 370-9004
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From historic wonders to an amusement park, Richmond is filled with exciting diversions and family-friendly places to go.
Who should vacation here
Richmond teems with activities and educational museums suited for all ages.
The Children’s Museum of Richmond and Science Museum of Virginia offers ample opportunities for play and learning.
For mind-blowing fun, spend the entire day at the Kings Dominion amusement park.
Expert tip
For a taste of nature, make your way to James River, and go on a guided rafting, paddle boarding or kayaking trip.
Recommended Hotel: The Berkeley Hotel
Also See:
Restaurants in Richmond
Hotels in Richmond
Richmond Beaches
9. Luray
Luray, VA
(540) 743-5511
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Searching for outdoorsy Virginia vacations for families?
Then, you’ll absolutely love the outdoor adventures in Luray.
Who should vacation here
Luray is ideal for families who are yearning for a refreshing and mind-blowing nature escape.
Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Luray is home to the famous Luray Caverns, an underground wonderland with loads of striking stone formations.
The town also has other fantastic outdoor attractions, including the Rope Adventure Park.
Expert tip
Make a pit stop to the Luray Zoo, and see an array of rescued animals, like an alligator snapping turtle.
Also, swing by the Toy Town Junction and be mesmerized by its vast collection of toy trains, dolls and circus miniatures.
Recommended Hotel: The Mimslyn Inn
10. Jamestown
Jamestown, VA
(757) 856-1250
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With refreshing nature spots and historic treasures, Jamestown has the hallmarks of a memorable family vacation.
Who should vacation here
Jamestown captivates families with its impressive mixture of historical and outdoor attractions.
To get your fix for historic and culture, visit Jamestown Settlement, and get a glimpse of 17th-century Virginia.
Meanwhile, nature lovers should hit the bike and hiking paths of Greensprings Interpretive Trail.
Expert tip
See the fascinating glassblowing demos at the town’s Glasshouse.
And, while there, pick up some beautiful hand blown glass souvenirs.
Recommended Hotel: Hotel Laurance
11. Norfolk
Norfolk, VA
(757) 664-6510
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Norfolk blends educational museums with beach fun, to give you a blissful family vacation.
Who should vacation here
For a bit of maritime fun and education, visit Norfolk.
Start your vacation with a tour of the National Maritime Center.
Afterward, visit Touch Tank, where your little ones can touch and see underwater creatures, including hermit crabs, starfish and urchins.
Expert tip
Spend a few hours or the whole day at Ocean View Beach Park.
Trust me, the beach offers plenty of classic family fun, such as collecting seashells, strolling the boardwalk and riding the waves.
Recommended Hotel: Hilton Norfolk The Main
Also See:
Restaurants in Norfolk
Hotels in Norfolk
Vacationer’s Guide
Comparing Destinations: Which One Is Right For You?
Throughout our family adventures in Virginia, we’ve been fortunate to experience firsthand the unique charm of each location.
For instance, at The Cavalier Virginia Beach, we were enthralled by the historical aura of the place, a feeling which was amplified by the friendly staff sharing fascinating tales of the hotel’s past.
The kids also loved splashing in the pool while my spouse and I indulged in spa treatments.
Next, we ventured to the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
The breathtaking ocean views from our balcony left us mesmerized, and we spent hours building sandcastles and collecting seashells.
Lastly, we visited the Kingsmill Resort, where we enjoyed thrilling water slides and bike rides and even encountered friendly wildlife during a nature hike.
Virginia truly offers incredible family memories at every turn.
How I Picked The Destinations
As an avid traveler and enthusiast of family vacations, I’ve explored the wonders of Virginia firsthand.
From the historic charm of Williamsburg to the breathtaking beauty of Shenandoah National Park, I’ve experienced it all.
Through extensive research and conversations with locals and fellow travelers, I’ve gathered insider tips to make your family vacation in Virginia unforgettable.
Our Rating Method
I rate these properties based on the following criteria:
- Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to evaluate the availability and variety of family-friendly amenities at every property. Does it feature playgrounds and kids’ clubs? Does it organize events designed specifically for kids? I ask myself these questions whenever I rate this property’s kid-friendly activities.
- Family Accommodations: This is used to assess the family accommodations of the property. Are the rooms spacious? Does it offer family suites with connecting rooms? Can it accommodate families of different sizes? Is there a crib or baby-proofing in every room? These questions are essential whenever I rate the property’s family accommodations.
- Dining Options: This evaluates the dining options at the property. Are there kid-friendly options at the property? Is there an on-site restaurant that caters to everyone’s dietary preferences and needs? I use these questions to assess the dining options of every property.
- Safety and Security: I use this criterion to assess the safety and security of every property. Are the premises secured? Is the staff trained to handle any emergency? I consider these factors when rating the property’s safety and security.
- Value for Money: This is used to evaluate the value for money of every property. Are the room rates reasonable? Are the services, activities, and amenities suitable for the price? I ask myself these questions to rate the value for money provided by the property.
- Location and Accessibility: This measures how accessible the property is for families. How far is it from the popular family attractions? Is it easily accessible via public transportation? I use these questions to evaluate the property’s location and accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Outdoor Activities Can Families Enjoy In Virginia?
Virginia boasts numerous outdoor activities suitable for families. Shenandoah National Park offers scenic hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and opportunities for camping and wildlife spotting. Families can also enjoy tubing or canoeing along the James River, exploring the caverns at Luray Caverns, or biking the Virginia Creeper Trail.
Can Families Enjoy Outdoor Water Activities In Virginia?
Virginia provides opportunities for outdoor water activities that the whole family can enjoy. Smith Mountain Lake offers boating, fishing, and swimming in a picturesque setting surrounded by mountains. The New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world, is perfect for tubing, kayaking, and canoeing. Families can also enjoy water parks like Great Waves Waterpark in Alexandria or Water Country USA in Williamsburg.
What Are Some Family-Friendly Accommodations In Virginia?
Virginia offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Resorts like The Omni Homestead in Hot Springs provide a range of activities and amenities for all ages, including pools, golf, and spa services. Vacation rentals and cabins near attractions such as Shenandoah National Park or Virginia Beach offer the convenience of a home-away-from-home experience.
Conclusion
My travels have affirmed The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection as the standout choice for the best family vacations in Virginia.
With its impeccable blend of luxury, history, and a host of family-friendly activities, it truly shines when compared to other local offerings.
This Virginia gem not only promises comfort and hospitality but also delivers an unparalleled and unforgettable experience.
So if you’re planning a family vacation, Virginia, particularly The Cavalier, is a top contender.
Here’s to your family’s next memorable journey in the heart of Virginia.
Editor’s Choice
The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection
The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Autograph Collection in Virginia is a luxurious historic hotel in Atlantic Avenue known for its elegant charm and breathtaking oceanfront views.
- Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
- Family Accommodations: 4/5
- Dining Options: 4/5
- Safety and Security: 4/5
- Value for Money: 3/5
- Location and Accessibility: 5/5
