George Washington has become a near mythical character in American history and culture. Statues, currency, and storybook tales paint a picture of a paternal statesman, the father of a country. But he was a real man with ambitions, flaws, strengths, and weaknesses. Trace the legend and discover the…
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Virginia is full of sites that relate to the founding of our country, the Civil War, and other iconic moments in American history. But what about the lesser-known, quirkier artifacts? Who is holding it down for pinball, old-timey medicine, and model railroads? We are. Many proud Commonwealth…
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Discover the beauty of Virginia’s National Parks for free this year when you visit during any of the following fee-free days!* February 16: Presidents Day May 25: Memorial Day June 14: Flag Day July 3–5: Independence Day weekend August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Service September 17:…
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With its early colonial roots, Virginia boasts a rich history marked by iconic presidential figures and notable events that have shaped the country and the world. As the site of many pivotal battles, especially during the Revolutionary War, Virginia’s soil is steeped in the echoes of conflict and…
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Civil Rights history in Virginia has a complicated legacy. As the home of the capital of the Confederacy, Virginia was the center of some of the hardest fought battles during the Civil Rights Movement. In fact, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People filed more lawsuits in…
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If you're a sucker for the nostalgic, you'll really enjoy Virginia's swinging bridges. They're photogenic locations that align with the likes of old watermills and covered bridges, combining history, function, and fun. The swinging bridge used to be a go-to for pedestrian bridges. When water levels…
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Virginia’s story is critical to the very fabric of American history, not only as the home of the first permanent English settlement, but also home to the longest continuous experience of Black history and culture in our nation. When the first enslaved Africans were brought to the shores of Hampton…
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They say it’s better to live in the present than to dwell in the past. But what if you could have the best of both worlds in one place? Virginia has no shortage of destinations that defy the laws of time, offering a combination of nostalgic experiences and contemporary adventures. From watching wild…
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The melodies have enchanted Richmond for decades. Soulful tunes that fill the bars, parks, and museums have become an iconic part of the city’s personality. While all music genres thrive in Virginia’s capital city, there’s a particularly vibrant jazz scene. From historic Shockoe Bottom to bustling…
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Ella Fitzgerald, known affectionately as the 'First Lady of Song,' had a remarkable journey from her hometown of Newport News, Virginia, to the grand stages of the world. As a beacon of talent and resilience, Ella's voice transcended the barriers of society to touch the hearts of millions globally…
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