15 Instagrammable Winter Destinations For a Cozy Virginia Vacation

While winter means less time outdoors, it doesn’t mean that all of Virginia’s scenic beauty is gone! Winter brings some incredible sights you won’t find at any other time of the year, from uninterrupted views made possible by bare treelines to awe-inspiring frozen waterfalls. 

If you need a little inspiration for some of Virginia’s truly Instagrammable winter destinations, plan a few weekend road trips to explore the most picture-perfect places in the Commonwealth this winter. 
 

EXPLORE: Outdoor Attractions | Winter Towns | Places to Stay 
 

OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

Great Falls Park—McLean

Take in the beauty of the Potomac River as it flows through the Mather Gorge. When fresh snow falls, it blankets the jagged rocks that jut out amidst the current. The 800-acre park is only 15 miles from our nation's capital, making it ideal for a quick escape to nature. 

Know Before You Go: Admire the Potomac from afar. The river may seem calm, but underwater currents are strong. For this reason, swimming and wading are prohibited. 

The Roanoke Star—Roanoke

Perched atop Mill Mountain, the view from the Roanoke Star is stunning year-round, but the winter months mean clearer skies and the lack of foliage allows for expansive city views. After taking in the sights from the star, hit the Blue Ridge Parkway for even more epic viewpoints. 

Keep planning your Roanoke trip with our complete guide to visiting the Star City. 

Humpback Bridge—Covington

The sole remaining covered humpback bridge in the United States, Humpback Bridge has become an iconic Virginia destination. If you catch it after a fresh snow during the winter, the bridge is absolutely magical. In addition to this unique wooden structure, the Humpback Bridge LOVEwork along the banks of the river make for an excellent photo opportunity, especially when decorated for the holidays.

Bonus: While this is a popular LOVEwork, there are now over 300 LOVEworks around the state.

Skyline Drive 

Skyline Drive is one of the most popular routes in Virginia during spring, summer, and especially fall. But during the winter, this scenic mountain route is much less traveled, giving you the chance to take your time and drive the winding roads at a leisurely pace. Along the way, you’ll get clear views seen above the leafless trees and spot frozen springs blanketing the mountain’s natural waterways.

Insider Tip: In the evenings, the clear skies of surrounding Shenandoah National Park are great for stargazing.

Luray Caverns—Luray

Eastern America’s largest and most popular cavern system, Luray Caverns maintains a steady temperature of 54 degrees year-round, making it an excellent winter vacation destination. Want to explore some of Virginia’s other caverns? There are several unique cavern systems found throughout the Southwest and Shenandoah regions, providing temperate and awe-inspiring destinations for the winter months. 

Know Before You Go: The town of Luray is also known as the “Cabin Capital of Virginia,” so whether you’re looking for a luxury lodge or a cozy cabin for two, Luray has dozens of rentals suited to your needs.

Crabtree Falls—Montebello

Hikes to Virginia waterfalls take on a magical air during the winter months, as portions of the cascading waters can freeze into sheets of sparkling ice. One such spot is Crabtree Falls, the highest vertical-drop cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River.

Insider Tip: Prepare for chilly temps by bundling up for the 3-mile hike. On the plus side, the cooler weather means less traffic on the trails. 
 

PICTURESQUE WINTER TOWNS

Old Town Alexandria

Between seasonal decorations and plenty of restaurants and cafes to stop for a nice warm cup of cocoa and some delicious seasonal treats, Old Town Alexandria’s historic charm shines bright during the winter months. Don’t miss a stroll down King Street, lined with over 200 boutique shops and restaurants, following all the way to the outdoor public art exhibits along the Potomac River waterfront. 

Start your Northern Virginia adventure with our guide to visiting Alexandria.

Colonial Williamsburg

Virginia is known for its rich and storied history, and for visitors looking to explore these sites, Colonial Williamsburg is a must. Walk through the historic district in the winter to spot colonial-era holiday decor such as fresh garland and wreaths adorned with fruit. You can also partake in seasonal activities, such as sipping a steaming cup of hot cocoa from the colonial taverns or ice skating at the Liberty Ice Pavilion. 

Keep planning your historic getaway with our complete guide to visiting Williamsburg. 

Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Virginia Beach is one of the top summer destinations in Virginia, filled with acclaimed restaurants, luxury accommodations, and of course, beautiful sandy shores. The coastal city has its own appeal during the winter months — visitors can take a leisurely walk along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk during off-season and enjoy serene views of the Atlantic. The boardwalk is particularly alluring at sunrise, as the skies are more clear and vibrant in the winter months.

Spend some time perusing the shops and restaurants in the ViBe District, where you’ll spot lots of colorful murals from local artists. Another can’t-miss for Virginia Beach in the winter is a whale watching tour with the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.  

Use our complete Virginia Beach guide to make sure you don't miss out on any waterfront fun.

Downtown Staunton

Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley and cradled by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Staunton is the perfect base camp location for outdoor lovers throughout the year, but the city’s historic streets are another charming draw for those visiting in the winter months. The buildings along Beverley Street offer examples of stunning architectural styles, while quaint local shops and restaurants provide one-of-a-kind shopping and dining opportunities.

Bonus: During the holidays, the city streets are decked out in festive lights and garlands, creating a scene straight out of a classic holiday movie. 
 

PLACES TO STAY

The Omni Homestead Resort—Hot Springs

If luxury is on your list this winter, book a stay at the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, where you can spend your getaway skiing, ice skating, and relaxing at their world-class spa. The ski slopes are known for being very family-friendly, so bring along the kids for a winter vacation in the mountains. 

Before You Go: Read up on the fascinating history of the Warm Springs Pools, where you can relax in the mineral-rich waters that have been a popular site for over two hundred years. 

Wintergreen Resort—Wintergreen

For some snow-filled fun, head to Wintergreen Resort in Nelson County. Fly down the slopes on skis, snowboards, or tubes, where you’ll get your fill of adrenaline while also getting prime views of the surrounding mountains under a blanket of pillowy snow. In addition to snow sports, Wintergreen has an indoor pool, a full-service spa, and several on-site dining options, and the accommodations range from double-occupancy rooms to chalets that hold up to 18 people.

Keep Planning: Check out more of Virginia’s winter resorts for memorable (and Instagrammable) adventures.

Sandy River Outdoor Adventure Resort—Farmville

The treetop obstacle course and zip lines at Sandy River Outdoor Adventure Resort have become a well known among outdoor adventure seekers in the warmer months, but this rural retreat is also ideal for a winter getaway. Their luxury glamping tipis are heated and have heated floors, allowing you to stay cozy even through the most frigid nights. In the evenings, sit around the personal fire pits to grill burgers and roast marshmallows, snuggling up under the clear skies filled with bright stars.

Bonus: Your winter glamping adventure can include reaching new heights on a winter hike. Don't forget to snap some photos at the summit. 

Shadow Mountain Escape—Luray

The cabins at Shadow Mountain Escape in Luray are a great option for couples looking for a romantic escape this winter. These upscale cabins are located just three miles from the Shenandoah National Park entrance, and there are multiple wineries close by. Spend an afternoon conquering a scenic hike through the mountains, then reward yourself with a wine tasting at a nearby vineyard. Each cabin is outfitted with a wood stove or fireplace, so after a day out in the chilly winter temperatures, you can warm up in front of a roaring fire. 

Keep Planning: Explore more of Virginia's cozy mountain cabins to cuddle up in this winter. 

Shenandoah Yurt—Stanley

Book a secluded stay on the edge of Shenandoah National Park at Shenandoah Yurt and enjoy a luxurious, one-of-a-kind glamping experience. Sleeping up to eight people, this incredible two-story yurt is bursting with amenities and fun activities, including a pool table, archery range, corn hole, hot tub, full kitchen with a grill to cook out in warmer months, and bikes available to rent on the property.

Know Before You Go: Shenandoah Yurt is kid and pet-friendly, although furry friends will need pre-approval and payment of a $50 fee.