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Things to do in Virginia

Our most recommended things to do in Virginia

Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit

1. Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit

See the sights of Washington DC from onboard the Spirit of Washington with a lunch or dinner cruise on the Potomac River. Enjoy a buffet dining experience as you sail, and delight in panoramic views. Board your vessel and receive a personal greeting. Have your photo taken by the ship's photographer to capture the memory before being seated at your private table. Once there, gorge on your lunch or dinner buffet consisting of creative entrees prepared fresh daily and listen to the onboard music. After your meal, visit any of the three climate-controlled decks as you glide by the sights. LUNCH/DINNER BUFFET SAMPLE MENU SALADS FIELD GREEN SALAD (G*)(VG)Tomatoes | Cucumbers | Carrots | Ranch Dressing | Balsamic Dressing KALE QUINOA SALAD (G*)(VG)(V)Quinoa | Roasted Red Pepper | Spinach | Lemon Oregano Vinaigrette GREEN GODDESS PASTA SALAD (V)Sweet Peas | White Beans | Scallions MAIN HONEY SESAME CHICKEN (G*)Scallions | Fresno Chillies OVEN ROASTED WHITEFISH (G*)Spicy Tomato | White Bean Ragu BAKED ZITI PASTA (V)Aged Reggiano Parmesan Cheese | Mozzarella Cheese | Spinach Cream Sauce ROOT VEGETABLE FRICASSEE (G*)(VG)(V)Idaho Potatoes | Broccoli | Grape Tomatoes | Gremolata | Cauliflower Coconut Cream Sauce COMPLEMENTSROASTED BROCCOLI (G*)(VG)(V)Toasted Garlic | Chili Flakes GARLIC MASHED POTATOES (G*)(V)Idaho Potatoes | Roasted Garlic DESSERTSIGNATURE DESSERT STATION (V)Cakes | Brownies | Seasonal Fruit | *May Contain Nuts *Menus subject to change

From Washington DC: Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Tour

2. From Washington DC: Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Tour

Discover the historic Old Town Alexandria on a guided day trip from Washington. Ride along the Potomac River and visit the Mount Vernon Estate, the former residence of George Washington. Enjoy pickup in a luxurious, climate-controlled vehicle while your guide explains the significance of some of the city’s most recognizable monuments. A short drive brings you to the candy-colored architecture of Alexandria, where you can take a tour of some monuments notable to the former president – including the Masonic Temple and Christ Church. Arguably the birthplace of the city itself, George Washington’s former estate is located just 13 miles from the capital’s center. Then, go for an in-depth foray through the mansion, with entrance tickets to the grounds and gardens included. Interactive, historic reenactments bring the founding father’s story to life, while a guided tour of the building helps shine a light on his fascinating story. Next, you'll ride along the Potomac River and visit the Mount Vernon Estate - one of the Washington, DC, area’s premier sightseeing attractions. Explore historic Mount Vernon – from the mansion’s interior where President Washington resided to his beloved gardens, and final resting place.  Take some time for lunch at the Mt Vernon Food Court if you like, then learn more about George Washington’s life and legacy in both the Museum and Education Center – home to more than 700 original objects (including his false teeth) and 25 theaters and galleries. There is even a multi-media theater where it actually snows. After shopping for unique gifts at the Mt Vernon Shops, you will be entertained by your guide as you return back to Washington DC.

Mount Vernon: Full-Day Bike and Optional Boat Tour

3. Mount Vernon: Full-Day Bike and Optional Boat Tour

Enjoy a full-day bike ride to and from Mount Vernon on the banks of the Potomac River, or rest your legs on the return journey and travel by boat. Meet in the Old Town of Alexandria to pick-up your bike and helmet. Then, cycle along the wooded Mount Vernon Trail to George Washington’s historic Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. Lock your bike outside the estate for tour staff to pick up. Then, spend the day self-exploring the grounds and mansion house. The mansion’s interior has mostly been restored to the appearance at the time of George and Martha Washington's occupancy. Enter Washington’s study and feel a part of history! Take time for lunch, and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the gardens and farm. Then, bike back to Alexandria, or opt to return by boat. Climb aboard the Miss Christin for the 1:30 PM departure from Mount Vernon’s dock. Relax on the narrated cruise as you glide to Washington DC.

From Washington DC: Mt Vernon Day Trip, River Cruise & Lunch

4. From Washington DC: Mt Vernon Day Trip, River Cruise & Lunch

Arrive at the wharf where you’ll meet your expert guide, ready to take you on the ferry. As you travel downstream, one of the first things you’ll spot is the impressive Titanic Memorial. Over on the east bank, you’ll see the many restaurants and marinas lining the walkway before the famous Ronald Regan Airport and Alexandria come into view. One of the final sights you’ll see is Fort Washington. Completed in 1809, this military defense guarded the nation’s capital until 1814, when it was destroyed by its own garrison. After three hours spent soaking up these iconic sights from the water, you’ll arrive at the Mount Vernon ready to continue your exploration. For the most comprehensive tour of the estate and grounds possible, you’ll be in the expert company of a Mount Vernon guide. Your first stop will be the estate’s farm, where Mount Vernon produced food, textiles and more. This was only possible because Mount Vernon, like most of the country’s estates during the time, was run by enslaved persons. You’ll gain an insight into their life on the farm, seeing where they lived, slept, ate, and the forms of resistance they took against the estate owners. Next, you’ll get your first view of Mount Vernon's mansion. After its owner’s illustrious career and fame, Mount Vernon began to attract more and more visitors who wanted to learn about the country’s first president. Despite this interest, the government wouldn’t purchase it as a state property. Instead, the Mount Vernon Ladies Association did, raising enough funds to buy the land (200 acres) and mansion. It's thanks to them you’re able to be transported back in time through the stately mansion, where you’ll get an up-close view of areas including the blacksmith’s shop, the overseer's quarters and the greenhouse. Admire the family portraits adorning the walls, explore George Washington’s private study, and lay your eyes on the bed where he died. Despite reserving a crypt for him in Washington DC, Washington told Congress he wished to be laid to rest at Mount Vernon. See the Old Tomb where he and Martha were buried until 1831. By the end of your tour, you’ll make your way back to the ferry for a picnic lunch on board. Enjoy the scenic cruise back to the nation's capital with an incredible insight into America’s most prolific founding father.

Washington DC: Sightseeing Pass with Attractions & Bus Tour

5. Washington DC: Sightseeing Pass with Attractions & Bus Tour

The easy-to-use Sightseeing Flex Pass is the easiest way to see the best of D.C. Select 1, 2, or 4 attractions, and take advantage of full admission to the experiences that interest you the most, saving you up to 60% on total visitation costs. Stand in awe at the iconic landscape of Washington D.C. and witness the splendor of the revolutionaries who defined the United States. Tour through the landmarked capital and see The Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Admire the visionary architecture of D.C. and take a selfie from the top of the Big Bus Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour, as you pass by the United States Capitol Building, the scenic National Mall, the White House, the Smithsonian Institution, the Library of Congress, and the Washington National Cathedral. Attractions: • George Washington’s Mount Vernon • Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Classic Ticket or Night Tour • Potomac Riverboat One Day Water Taxi Walking & Bike Tours: • Unlimited Biking - Capital Sites Bike Tour • Unlimited Biking - Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour • Unlimited Biking - All day Bike Rental Special Discounts: • Buca di Beppo • Bounce Luggage Storage/

From Washington DC: Day Trip to Luray Caverns

6. From Washington DC: Day Trip to Luray Caverns

Start your day with being picked up at your accommodation in Washington DC. Enjoy the ride in a luxury SUV or sprinter van through Virginia's scenic Shenandoah Valley. Arrive at the Luray Caverns, one of the most remarkable natural wonders in the Mid-Atlantic region. In addition to a guided tour through the Caverns, you will also be able to explore the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum. See classic cars from around the world including an 1897 Mercedes-Benz and a 1925 Rolls-Royce. Roll up your sleeves as you mine for gold and other gems at the Gem Sluice geology experience. Opt to have lunch in the on-site cafeteria or bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. Get lost in the Garden Maze or strap on a harness to tackle the heights in the Rope Adventure Park. After a day of adventure, drive back to DC.

From DC: Virginia Wine Country Tour with Tastings

7. From DC: Virginia Wine Country Tour with Tastings

Step away from the big city crowds to spend a relaxed day in the countryside. Join this guided tour departing from Washington DC and travel to two traditional vineyards in the state of Virginia. Learn about the history and production process of each site, and taste their delicious wines. Board a van and take in the views as you leave behind the tall buildings of the city and drive into the lush countryside of Virginia. Visit two wineries, where you'll learn about the local history of wine production and tour their facilities to acquire a better understanding of winemaking. Enjoy fascinating guided tastings and snacks at both locations, with the possibility to purchase lunch if you're feeling hungry.

Washington DC Sightseeing Flex Pass: 15+ Experiences in DC

8. Washington DC Sightseeing Flex Pass: 15+ Experiences in DC

The easy-to-use Sightseeing Flex Pass is the easiest way to see the best of D.C. Select 1, 2, or 4 attractions, and take advantage of full admission to the experiences that interest you the most, saving you up to 60% on total visitation costs.  Stand in awe at the iconic landscape of Washington D.C. and witness the splendor of the revolutionaries who defined the United States. Tour through the landmarked capital and see The Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.  Admire the visionary architecture of D.C. and take a selfie from the top of the Big Bus Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour, as you pass by the United States Capitol Building, the scenic National Mall, the White House, the Smithsonian Institution, the Library of Congress, and the Washington National Cathedral. Complete list of attractions can be found on the following link: https://www.sightseeingpass.com/en/washington-dc/flex-pass/attraction-list/ota.

DC: Private Day Trip to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello Estate

9. DC: Private Day Trip to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello Estate

Enjoy a private full-day tour from Washington DC to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the beautiful estate and plantation of America’s founding father with a knowledgeable guide. Situated on a hill overlooking the nearby town of Charlottesville, Monticello radiates Jefferson’s personality. Walk through the home, designed by Jefferson himself, taking in the views of fruit and vegetable gardens and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Following your visit to the Monticello estate, enjoy lunch at the historic Michie Tavern (meal not included with purchase). Relax on the return journey to Washington DC, where you'll be dropped off back at your hotel.

DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with Lunch or Dinner

10. DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with Lunch or Dinner

On this all-inclusive tour, taste the beer of the nation’s capital as you learn about beer history and the brewing process. Go behind the curtains where the brewmasters of Washington, DC, work their magic and enjoy scrumptious beer and food pairings for an unparalleled brew tour experience.   On this guided brew tour, visit 4 breweries in Washington, DC, which may include:   • Red Bear Brewing Co: Situated in downtown DC (NOMA), this brewery produces a variety of flavorful beers to sip on. You can enjoy your drink while watching one of their near-daily events.   • Right Proper Brewing Co: This company churns out some of the tastiest beers in the region, starting from a vision of heading to your local pub to grab a fresh glass of beer brewed on-site. • Brookland Pint: This characteristic spot offers a relaxing beer and meal pairing experience. At Brookland Pint, local ingredients are sourced to produce mouth-watering menu items.   • Port City Brewing: Tucked at the westernmost tip of Washington, DC, Port City Brewing is churning out some of the most incredible craft brews. They generously offer tour-goers special samples and beers that are exclusive to the brewery.

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What people are saying about Virginia

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 1,260 reviews

I enjoyed this lunch cruise. DJ was great! He played a diverse playlist that kept everyone entertained. The food was good-not 5 star or gourmet but not bad at all. What made it even better was the that all of staff were so nice! You can tell they thoroughly enjoy the work they do and they like people because they were definitely spreading joy! Keep up the great work! You’re appreciated!

This was a lovely tour. The guide, Terri, was extremely knowledgeable and gave us even more than we expected. The driver was excellent and we felt very safe. The Alexandria portion of the tour was delightful and much better than expected. All in all, a very good day!

Booked this tour as a last minute tour since it was our last day in DC. Tour did not disappoint! Tour guide was awesome and very knowledgeable!

I rather wanted to have real soul food than broccoli or green pasta you need to fix the menus

Great tour! Learned a lot about this place and many interesting historical facts!