The Top Places to See When Driving From Blacksburg, Virginia to Richmond, Virginia

Driving from Blacksburg, Virginia to Richmond, Virginia is a journey worth taking for anyone who loves the outdoors, history, and good food. Along the way, you will pass through picturesque countryside, charming towns, and historic landmarks. If you're planning a trip, here are the top places you should not miss.

Hiking in the New River Gorge National Park

If you're an outdoors lover, the New River Gorge National Park should be your first stop. It is the newest national park in the United States and boasts over 70,000 acres of wild and scenic terrain. You can hike some of the park's 20 trails, bike along the river, or go whitewater rafting. For a stunning view of the gorge, walk across the New River Gorge Bridge, the longest steel arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere.

Exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country, and it runs right through Virginia. The Parkway covers 469 miles of stunning mountain views, and you can access it in Blacksburg. Along the way, stop at overlooks for sweeping vistas, hike trails through the mountains, or visit historic sites like the Mabry Mill. The parkway also has many places to camp, making it perfect for a day trip or a multi-day adventure.

Visiting Thomas Jefferson's Monticello

No trip to Virginia is complete without a visit to Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. Situated just outside of Charlottesville, Monticello is a masterpiece of architecture and design. Tour the grounds and gardens, explore the house and the slave quarters, and learn about Jefferson's life and legacy. The tours are informative and engaging, and you'll come away with a deeper understanding of one of America's greatest leaders.

Touring the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Richmond is home to many cultural institutions, but none is more impressive than the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The museum houses over 33,000 works of art from every continent and every era. You can see masterpieces by famous artists like Vincent van Gogh, Edgar Degas, and Pablo Picasso, as well as contemporary works by local artists. The building itself is a work of art, with soaring spaces and dramatic views.

Sampling Craft Beer in Richmond's Breweries

Richmond has become a craft beer mecca, with dozens of breweries and taprooms offering unique and delicious beers. Some of the most popular breweries include Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, The Veil Brewing Co., and Triple Crossing Brewing Company. Make a day of it by hopping from brewery to brewery and trying different styles of beer. Most breweries also offer tours and tastings, so you can learn about the brewing process and the history of beer in Virginia.

Touring the Virginia State Capitol

The Virginia State Capitol is a beautiful building that has been the center of political life in the state for over 200 years. Designed by Thomas Jefferson, the Capitol boasts stunning architecture and impressive works of art. You can take a tour of the building, learn about the state's history, and even see the room where Patrick Henry delivered his famous "Give me liberty or give me death" speech. The Capitol is a must-see for anyone interested in history or politics.

Conclusion

Driving from Blacksburg, Virginia to Richmond, Virginia is an adventure that will take you through some of the state's most beautiful and historic places. Whether you love hiking, art, history, or good beer, there's something for everyone along the way. So pack your bags, hit the road, and see for yourself why Virginia is for lovers.