It's often said that the best things in life are free. This statement usually refers to love, family, and the other priceless aspects of life. Well, it's also true about living in Virginia. Because this state offers a whole range of activities at our disposal that don't cost a dime. This list offers just some of the legitimately fun things you can do while feasibly leaving your wallet at home.
It's hard to believe the pristine gardens and grounds of Maymont are free of admission, but it's true. And visiting this historic park should be at the top of your to-do list if you've yet to see the beautiful wildlife and garden exhibits. Address: 1700 Hampton St, Richmond, VA 23220.
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2. Stoll, hike, or bike the Virginia Creeper Trail (Abingdon)
Fall magic is in the air, and perhaps the best place to experience that is along the Virginia Creeper Trail. Beautiful at any time of year, this scenic 34-mile trail offers something for all activity levels. (Side note: anyone willing to pay a small fee can also enjoy the newly-added zip line!)
3. Stargaze from the McCormick Observatory (Charlottesville)
Located at the University of Virginia, the McCormick Observation Tower allows you to feel just a little closer to the stars. Every first and third Friday of the month, the center is open for public tours and the chance to gaze through these magnificent telescopes. Address: 600 McCormick Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22904.
With playgrounds, a lake for fishing, beautiful walking trails, and the chance to see all sorts of wildlife, Crump Park is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. Address: 3400 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060.
This forested park also doubles as a challenging Outdoor Education Center. The programs themselves are not free, but enjoying a picnic in this lovely section of the state is. Address: 13220 Yates Ford Rd, Clifton, VA 20124.
Stroll along this pictureque paved walkway that winds along Danville's beloved river. With restrooms and water stations along the way, it's the perfect place for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
This iconic drive through Virginia is one of the best ways to take in the scenic sweeping views so characteristic of the Shenandoah Valley. While gas certainly isn't free, admission to this beautiful parkway is.
Temperatures may be dropping, but that doesn't make the Yorktown Beachfront any less beautiful. In fact, this time of year the waterfront will be even less crowded. Why not pack a lunch, bring some blankets, and watch these beautiful waters?
Located at the top of Roanoke's Mill Mountain is one of the most iconic views of the city: the Star. This attraction offers some of the best view of the city, and even features nature trails and a gorgeous drive.
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10. Tour the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (Richmond)
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most visited museums in Richmond and admission is completely free. Tour impressive galleries with unforgettable artwork. Some of the special exhibits do call for an admission, though. Also note there is a small parking fee except for members of the VMFA. Address: 200 N Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220.
Experience the historic Jamestown area the same way that settlers hundreds of years ago did: by boat. The ferry system is free of charge, running 7 days a week and connecting the Scotland Wharf to Jamestown. Address: 16289 Rolfe Hwy, Surry, VA 23883.
12. Visit the Old Town Farmers' Market (Alexandria)
This one is a little bit of a stretch, seeing as it's always encouraged to buy something at these markets and support the local farmers. However, there's nothing wrong with stopping by the Old Town Farmers' Market in Alexandria just for the sake of the live music and learning about the produce. You might even find a free sample or two along the way. Address: 301 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314.
13. See the goats at the Westmoreland Berry Farm (Colonial Beach)
This family-owned berry farm features one of the most unusual attractions in the Northern Neck: a goat walk. Watch these fascinating creatures stroll from one side of the farm to the other on their very own walkway. Nearby, there's also a cafe and gift shop. Address: 1235 Berry Farm Ln, Colonial Beach, VA 22443.
14. Attend an American Afternoon at the Floyd Country Store
Stop by the Floyd Country Store on Saturday afternoons for their music series known as Americana Afternoon, a free event that showcases some of the best local talent. And if you're up for it, you might even try your hand at some swing dancing the following Friday night, for a $5 admission. Address: 206 S Locust St, Floyd, VA 24091.
Now it's your turn -- what are some of your favorite free activities in Virginia? We'd love to hear them!
A truly immersive historical experience in Virginia usually requires a trip to Williamsburg or Colonial Jamestown, both highly recommended and for good reason. On a picture-perfect October evening, however, I ventured down the James River on a 19th-century-style batteau, and my understanding of our state's history and natural landscape has greatly benefitted.
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James River Batteau Company has been leading tours along the James River in Scottsville since 2020, when its founders, both named Will and both hailing from Amherst County, brought a very unique vision to life. Batteaux — boats designed specifically to navigate James River waterways — have been engrained in Virginia's history, but stories of the batteaumen have largely been untold. Until now.
My father and I arrived in Scottsville half an hour before our Sunset Cruise, which allowed us plenty of time to stretch our legs and tour Canal Basin Square Park before our 4:45 p.m. tour time. This outdoor transportation park tells the story of Virginia's James River and Kanawha Canal, spanning the Native American Monacans to the railroads. The park set the stage perfectly for our own river adventure, and after having finished a brief self-guided tour, we were welcomed aboard the batteau.
It's one thing to admire a thoughtful display of river vessels, as we did at the park; it's another thing entirely to step onto one. The small, well-crafted boat sat six of us quite comfortably, including our two guides. During our tour, a second batteau was fastened to ours with another group of six. Both groups were seated around tables carefully set with napkins and glasses in place.
The James River is beautiful every day of the year, but on this particular afternoon, it was as smooth as glass. Co-founders Will Smith and Will Cash welcomed us aboard and began a wonderfully detailed and engaging presentation on the history of James River and the batteau, starting at the very beginning. Listening to this story, we envisioned the Indigenous Americans who expertly navigated the waterways. We also learned about the invention of the batteau, which was necessary for voyaging and transporting goods along Virginia's narrow inland waters.
Here's something I didn't know until taking the tour: batteaux were at the very heart of the country's trade efforts, carrying valuable goods like tobacco from the Piedmont to Richmond. This was the reason, in fact, that Virginia grew to be such a prominent state and facilitated the westward expansion.
We then learned about the intricacies of batteau work and transportation. Sadly, we don't have many accounts of the batteaumen, as most were enslaved people. The existing records originate from diaries and literature and unfortuantely, no firsthand accounts exist. Here's what we do know: the work was challenging, unforgiving, and at times, dangerous.
The tour reveals some fascinating tidbits of history, some nearly unbelievable, but I won't spoil them here; I'd recommend hearing them on the water.
About forty-five minutes later, when we arrived at our anchor point, there was time for questions, and then, food was served. Each pair of guests received an impressive charcuterie board featuring meats, cheeses, crackers, and other seasonal accouterments. It was, I think, the perfect addition to the experience. Ice buckets are also provided for anyone who brings their own beverage to enjoy. Otherwise, water is provided.
While we filled up on these provisions, anchored in place, we enjoyed live music and conversation with our fellow passengers. We were all in agreement: this was an unforgettable experience on the water and we couldn't wait to come back to do it again. The scenery was magnificent, and I loved watching the sunset dip below the water as a flock of geese called out overhead. Batteaux are still an uncommon way to travel, but thanks to this tour, their existence will no longer be lost to history. Each year, there's a celebration known as the James River Batteau Festival, an 8-day event that moves along the 200-year-old route from Lynchburg to Richmond.
There are so many reasons to enjoy this experience on the water, but one of the less tangible things I perhaps enjoyed most was being decidedly unhurried. This quote inscribed on one of the plaques at Canal Basin Square Park about inland river travel seems to summarize it perfectly: "[This] mode of travel, which now seems so antiquated, so slow and tedious, was in harmony with the spirit and customs of old Virginia. We were a leisurely people, eminently social in our instincts and habits, and we did not care to rush through life, whether traveling or at home."
Work and life on the James are indeed slow; each move is deliberate, and planning is crucial. About halfway through our trip, we learned that our guides had built the batteau themselves out of white oak planks — yet another case in point of how good things on the James take time.
James River Batteau Company offers a series of tours in addition to the Sunset Cruise, including a classic River Cruise and a Farm-to-Batteau Cruise. Each tour lasts about two hours. Curious to learn more about these historic tours near Charlottesville? Visit the official James River Batteau Company website and book your adventure today!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
