14 Virginia Towns for an Easy and Affordable Holiday Getaway

Planning a holiday getaway in Virginia has never been easier with our affordable destinations guide, where you'll find trip inspiration and tips for getting the best value in cities and towns around Virginia. 

Whether you’re visiting family and friends, looking for a winter hiker’s paradise, taking a journey through history, or just want to get out of the house, Virginia has the holiday getaway for you. Each of our ideas comes with recommendations for where to stay, what to eat, and what’s worth the splurge. Consider it our gift to you. 
 

JUMP TO: Cities | Small Towns | Family-Friendly Trips | Outdoor Adventures | History Trips
 

FOR A CITY HOLIDAY

Richmond 

Virginia’s capital city is a cultural hub all year long, but it holds a particular charm during the holiday season. Admire the downtown skyline, sparkling with lights, then pop into a seasonal bar for creative drinks and a festive atmosphere. For a true Richmond experience, design your own tour of tacky light houses in the area — there are dozens of showstopping displays, perfect for an evening of free fun. 

Where to Stay in Richmond

Stay in the heart of the city for the convenience of walkable attractions, eateries, and ambiance. The Quirk Hotel is known for its pink-forward, too-cute decorations, and also features an on-site art gallery. For family and pet-friendly accommodations, check out the Graduate Richmond. 

Where to Eat in Richmond

$ | Stir Crazy Cafe, Cochiloco, Susie’s Delicatessen

$$ | Millie’s Diner, Helen’s, Pinky’s

$$$ | L’Oppossum, Grisette, Lemaire 

For more restaurant recs, see our full dining guide.  

Where to Splurge in Richmond

Get tickets to the GardenFest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, an annual tradition which fills the gardens with millions of twinkling lights. 

Value tip: If you go on select Tuesdays, your ticket will also include access to a performance in the Cochrane Rose Garden.

Keep planning your River City getaway with our complete guide to visiting Richmond.
 

Alexandria

Your Alexandria getaway can be equal parts Hallmark Christmas Movie and big city adventure. Stroll the streets of Old Town Alexandria, a historic neighborhood decked out with lights and garland. Don’t miss free events like the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (Dec. 6, 2025) and the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (Dec. 6, 2025). Pop across the Potomac to take in free museums and more sightseeing in Washington, D.C. 

Where to Stay in Alexandria 

Stay in Old Town for access to most of the holiday happenings. Relax in the secluded brick courtyard (decked out for the holidays) at the Archer Hotel. Book a room at the Hotel Indigo and you’ll be right on the waterfront. 

Where to Eat in Alexandria

$ | Fontaine Old Town, Chewish Deli, Los Tios Grill 

$$ | Evening Star Cafe, Virtue Feed & Grain, Barca Pier & Wine Bar 

$$$ | Ada’s on the River, Josephine, Vermilion

Still hungry? Here’s our full dining guide. 

Where to Splurge in Alexandria

The boutiques along King Street in Old Town can’t be beat. If shopping’s not your thing, see a show at The Birchmere, an iconic music venue with dozens of holiday shows lined up for December. 

Use our complete guide to Alexandria to keep planning your getaway. 
 

Virginia Beach

It may be a coastal city, but Virginia Beach knows how to do the holidays right. Start the season at the Cavalier Grand Illumination, a free event filled with seasonal cheer (Nov. 30, 2025). The oceanfront properties of the Cavalier Resort transform into a winter wonderland with festive performances, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate, and specialty cocktails. 

Where to Stay in Virginia Beach

For luxury and festive decorations, choose a Cavalier Resort property. If traveling with a large group, a rental in Sandbridge will have enough space for everyone to be comfortable. 

Where to Eat in Virginia Beach

$ | The Bee & The Biscuit, Aloha Snacks, Doc Taylor’s

$$ | Gringo’s Taqueria, The Shack on 8th, Chick’s Oyster Bar 

$$$ | Hunt Room, Becca Restaurant & Garden, Heirloom 

Here’s our full dining guide so you can keep planning. 

Where to Splurge in Virginia Beach

If you’d like to get out on the water, winter is prime time for whale watching. Several tours begin operations in December — book with Rudee Tours or the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. For holiday fun, get tickets to drive through the Holiday Lights at the Beach display and see light-up jumping fish, crabs, penguins, and Surfing Santa take over the Boardwalk. 

Value tip: See the lights on your bike (and for free) during Holiday Lights Bike Night on Nov. 13. Every Monday is also Military Monday — get $5 off with Military ID. 

Plan your coastal holiday with our complete guide to visiting Virginia Beach. 
 

FOR A SMALL TOWN ESCAPE

Staunton

Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton’s walkability and appealing architecture make it easy to do the holidays right. Stroll through downtown and window shop. Don’t forget to stop into the Art for Gifts Holiday Market (Nov. 15-Dec. 28, 2025) at the R.R. Smith Center for History & Art, featuring pieces from local and regional artists. When the sun goes down, head to Gypsy Hill Park for a free holiday light show (Nov. 24, 2025-Jan. 1, 2026).  

Where to Stay in Staunton 

Opt for convenience and comfort at the Maude & the Bear Inn, where your stay will include a multi-course breakfast or Sunday brunch for two. To be just steps from downtown, reserve a room at Hotel 24 South. 

Where to Eat in Staunton

$ | The By & By, Gloria’s Pupuseria 

$$ | Queen City Bistro, Accordia, Remedy Burger 

$$$ | Maude & the Bear, Zynodoa, The Shack 

Where to Splurge in Staunton 

Get tickets to see “A Christmas Carol” at the Blackfriars Playhouse (Dec. 4-27). Not only will you experience the heartwarming tale, but the venue is one to remember — it's the world’s first re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre. 

Value tip: The theatre will host pay-what-you-will previews of the show Dec. 4-5. Get there early as seats are first come, first served. 
 

Middleburg

Look no further than Middleburg for holiday small town coziness. Mark your calendar for the first weekend of December, when the annual Christmas in Middleburg festivities kick off. Free events include a tree lighting ceremony, the Hunt & Hounds Review, and the Christmas Parade. 

Where to Stay in Middleburg

Salamander Middleburg and Goodstone Inn both go all out with holiday decorations. At the Salamander, look into special events like gingerbread house decorating, holiday teas, and story times with Mrs. Claus. At Goodstone, elevate your getaway with a fine dining experience at The Conservatory. 

Where to Eat in Middleburg 

$ | Middleburg Deli, Middleburg Common Grounds 

$$ | Tremolo, Thaiverse

$$$ | The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, King Street Oyster Bar, The Conservatory at Goodstone Inn 

Where to Splurge in Middleburg 

Wining and dining is top notch in this Loudoun County town. Enjoy a fine dining meal at The Conservatory, or spend a day discovering a dozen vineyards in the surrounding area, many with cozy tasting rooms. 

Keep planning your holiday in Hunt Country with our complete guide to visiting Middleburg. 
 

Abingdon

Once described by Southern Living as “a Southern version of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’” the quaint town of Abingdon lights up for the holiday season. Browse downtown storefronts, then survey decorated trees and support a good cause at the Festival of Trees (Nov. 22-Dec. 31, 2025). Visit the first weekend of December and catch the Abingdon Christmas Parade, now in its 58th year. 

Where to Stay in Abingdon 

Not only is the Martha Washington Inn & Spa centrally located on Abingdon’s West Main Street, it also decks its halls for the holiday season. 

Value tip: Book the Barter Room Package for a two-night stay and two tickets to a show at the Barter Theatre, which is putting on “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” and “The Innkeeper’s Wife” this holiday season. 

Where to Eat in Abingdon

$ | The Girl & The Raven, Pakalachian

$$ | Rain, 128 Pecan

$$$ | The Tavern, Summers Roof and Cellar 

Where to Splurge in Abingdon 

There are even more markets to discover in this Southwest Virginia town, from the Mistletoe Market — the region’s largest holiday shopping event — to the Abingdon Merchant Open House and the weekly Abingdon Farmers Market. 
 

FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN

Norfolk 

Norfolk’s winter fun is bigger than ever this year with the Winterfest Riverwalk, a free holiday strolling experience. Kids of all ages can explore sparkling lights from the Pagoda throughout Town Point Park. Plan your trip for the weekend before Thanksgiving to catch the free Grand Illumination Parade through downtown Norfolk. 

Where to Stay in Norfolk

Norfolk Waterside Marriott and Hilton Norfolk The Main are both located within easy walking distance of the Riverwalk festivities.

Where to Eat in Norfolk

$ | Doumar’s, The Ten Top, Mea Culpa

$$ | Freemason Abbey, 80/20 Burger Bar, Pendulum Fine Meats

$$$ | Ilo Bistro, Blanca Food + Wine, Codex

Where to Splurge in Norfolk

Garden of Lights at Norfolk Botanical Garden is a can’t-miss event for the holidays. Look at the schedule to see value and premium nights. 

Nauticus’ Winterfest event is also expanding this year with the debut of the 30,000-sqft Kingdom of the Snow Queen. It will feature over two million lights, rotating live entertainment, and of course the decked-out World War II Battleship Wisconsin.

Value tip: Admission to Winterfest is discounted on parade night (Nov. 22) and select value nights. 

Explore all the Mermaid City has to offer with our complete guide to Norfolk. 
 

Lynchburg

Journey to the City of Seven Hills for an easy holiday getaway the whole family will love. Top of your list should be walking through Bright Nights on the Bluffwalk, a holiday light display that takes over the scenic riverside all season long (November 23, 2025 – January 4, 2026). Opening night will feature a kick-off celebration with a holiday market, snow simulator machines, and a Whoville Square area.  

Where to Stay in Lynchburg

The Craddock Terry Hotel is steps away from the Bluffwalk and is known for its massive tree on the plaza. Another downtown option is The Virginian, which also goes all out for the holidays with Santa brunches and horse-drawn carriage rides. 

Where to Eat in Lynchburg

$ | Bacon St. Bagels, Squared Biscuit Co., Texas Inn

$$ | The Depot Grille, Rivermont Pizza, Fleming Mountain Grill

$$$ | Shoemakers American Grille

Find even more dining picks with our Lynchburg restaurant guide. 

Where to Splurge in Lynchburg

Amazement Square is a children's museum like no other, with hands-on activities and interactive exhibitions that combine learning and play. Get tickets to the Children's Holiday Festival: Candy Cane Carnival (December 13, 2025), which includes a pancake breakfast, a sock skating rink, and photos with Santa.  

Williamsburg

Travel through time for a Colonial-era Christmas the family will never forget. Decorations line the streets of the recreated village, and shopping opportunities abound. Don’t miss the Grand Illumination nights (Dec. 6, 13, and 20, 2025), which fill the sky with festive fireworks.

Where to Stay in Williamsburg

For built-in, kid-friendly amenities, check out nearby Kingsmill Resort or Great Wolf Lodge.

Where to Eat in Williamsburg

$ | Maria Bonita Cantina, Aromas Coffehouse

$$ | Old City Barbeque, The Cheese Shop, Sal’s by Victor

$$$ | Fat Canary, Cochon on 2nd

Where to Splurge in Williamsburg 

Spend a day in Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, the largest Christmas event in Virginia. The theme park will shine with twinkling lights, holiday shows, and Santa's Workshop. 

Value tip: The Christmas Bounce Ticket will get you three consecutive days of admission to Colonial Williamsburg and Christmas Town, allowing you to make the most of all the holiday fun. 

All your need-to-know info is in our complete guide to Williamsburg. 
 

FOR AN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Roanoke 

Forget the star on top of your tree — embark on a holiday hike to the Mill Mountain Star, one of the largest illuminated stars in the world. With trees bare, you’ll see even further into the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains when you complete the hike. After a day on the trails, wind down with some shopping and winter fun in Grandin Village, which hosts several free holiday events throughout the season. 

Where to Stay in Roanoke

The Hotel Roanoke gets all dressed up for Christmas, with dozens of professionally decorated trees on display. The trees aren’t just for looks — they’re part of the Fashions for Evergreens contest, which raises money for United Way of the Roanoke Valley. 

Where to Eat in Roanoke

$ | Viet Sub, Scratch Biscuit Company

$$ | Fortunato, Six and Sky, Show Pony

$$$ | Sidecar, Stock, Lucky 

Get more recs with our Roanoke dining guide. 

Where to Splurge in Roanoke 

Wander a wooded trail twinkling with over 650,000 lights at Illuminights at Explore Park. The pet-friendly event includes an artisan market, marshmallow roasting, and visits with Santa on select nights. Advance tickets are $18. 

The Star City awaits — check out our complete guide to visiting Roanoke for more trip ideas. 
 

Harrisonburg

Head to the Friendly City for a winter holiday getaway with equal parts adrenaline and relaxation. Take a winter hike in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests or Shenandoah National Park. Special holiday events fill most weekends, including the first weekend of December when the Holiday Parade will take over Main Street. 

Where to Stay in Harrisonburg

Opt for a downtown stay at the Joshua Wilton House, or check out By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages for cozy accommodations and an easy gateway to outdoor adventure. 

Where to Eat in Harrisonburg 

$ | Xenia Kebab Grille, Vietopia, Coffee Hound

$$ | Clementine, Mashita, Rocktown Kitchen

$$$ | Local Chop & Grill House, Illyria

Where to Splurge in Harrisonburg 

Venture around 30 minutes from Harrisonburg to Massanutten Resort, where you can ski, snowboard, tube, and take advantage of more winter fun during the holiday season. Beginners can take lessons and equipment is available for rent.
 

FOR HISTORY LOVERS 

Fredericksburg

Nothing will warm your heart quicker than a winter walk through Historic Downtown Fredericksburg. Store owners compete to have the best decorated windows and the Fredericksburg Christmas Parade makes its way down Caroline and Princess Anne Streets the first Saturday of December. 

There are also free Holiday Open Houses at Rising Sun Tavern (Dec. 5, 2025) and the Mary Washington House (Dec. 7, 2025) with live music, festive tours, and refreshments. 

Where to Stay in Fredericksburg

The Ironclad Inn has historic roots and features a bourbon tasting room and bottle shop, so you can pick up a gift for a spirits lover in your life.

Where to Eat in Fredericksburg 

$ | Agora, Worst Deli

$$ | Mercantile, Foode, Orofino, Harry’s Sidecar 

$$$ | Fahrenheit 132, The Alpine Chef

Where to Splurge in Fredericksburg 

Cozy up in a horse-drawn carriage as you enjoy an evening ride through the historic streets of Fredericksburg. 
 

Charlottesville

Enjoy a holiday getaway with plenty of history at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stop by free museums and exhibition spaces like the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, Fralin Museum of Art, and Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection, plus enjoy festive shopping and entertainment on the iconic Downtown Mall.

Where to Stay in Charlottesville 

Get the full holiday experience at Boar’s Head Resort, where the seasonal fun includes over 20 decorated trees, holiday tea, and a nightly light show. 

Value tip: Booking the Winter Wander Package will give you VIP access to the light show, which winds half a mile along the resort’s lake. 

Where to Eat in Charlottesville

$ | Bodo’s Bagels, MarieBette Café & Bakery, Take It Away

$$ | Orzo Kitchen & Wine Bar, The Alley Light, Oakhart Social Restaurant

$$$ | Smyrna, Public Fish & Oyster, Tavola

Use our Charlottesville dining guide for more eatery inspiration. 

Where to Splurge in Charlottesville 

Monticello is a must for your Charlottesville getaway, and with special Holiday Evening Tours you can get access to Thomas Jefferson’s iconic home after dark. Learn how everyone who lived at the plantation observed the holidays, plus take in greenery and more decorations in the style of the founding era. 

Keep planning your Cville getaway with our complete guide to visiting Charlottesville. 
 

Prince William & Fairfax County

These Northern Virginia counties have plenty to offer during the holidays, from special events at historic sites to a variety of shopping experiences. Explore Manassas National Battlefield Park to learn the history of two prominent Civil War conflicts. The Manassas Battlefield Trust hosts a Victorian Christmas in early December at The Stone House, which explores how families celebrated and honored missing relatives at Christmas during the Civil War. 

Where to Stay in Northern Virginia

Check out the Archer Hotel, which has locations in Tysons and the Mosaic District, for a chic stay that’ll situate you in the midst of shopping and dining. 

Where to Eat in Northern Virginia

$ | Cuppi Coffee, Akida Coffeehouse

$$ | Songbird, Mama Tigre, The Secret Garden Cafe

$$$ | 2941 Restaurant, Genki Izakaya, L’Auberge Chez François

Where to Splurge in Northern Virginia

Sign up for a candlelit guided tour of George Washington’s Mount Vernon to learn about holiday traditions in 18th century Virginia. Tickets are $41. You can also visit the estate for its Christmas Illumination nights, which feature lights, fireworks, and seasonal reenactments. 

Use our complete guide to Fairfax County and our complete guide to Prince William County to plan your Northern Virginia holiday getaway.

The festivities don't stop here — check out even more ways to LOVE the winter holiday season in Virginia.