As the old saying goes, “Virginia is for lovers”—and there’s a lot for families to love in the state, including museums—especially in a part of the United States with such a rich history—zoos, parks, resorts and even adventure activities that are sure to make long-lasting memories.
Here are five picks for family fun in Virginia:
Luray Caverns
101 Cave Hill Road, Luray, VA 22835
Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. April 1 to June 14, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. June 15 to Labor Day, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Labor Day to Oct. 31 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Nov. 1 to March 31
Go underground and explore the largest cavern in the Eastern U.S., with scenery out of a fantasy novel. Observe some truly unique natural stone formations and underground pools. When you’re done with the caves, check out some of the other attractions in the area —entry to Shenandoah Heritage Village, the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum and Toy Town Junction are included with admission, while the Rope Adventure Park and Gem Sluice require additional purchases.
$17-$34; free for children 6 and younger | luraycaverns.com
Children’s Science Center Lab
Fair Oaks Mall | 11948L Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, VA 22033
Timed entry sessions offered at 10 a.m.-noon, 1-3 p.m. and 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday and school holidays
This interactive nonprofit museum aims to foster a love of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in children through hands-on activities. Conduct your own experiments from a rotating menu at the Experiment Bar, learn about real-world uses of STEM learning in the Inspiration Hub and more. The museum also regularly hosts events for specific holidays, including themed experiments.
$15; free for children younger than 2 | childsci.org
Massanutten Indoor WaterPark
Massanutten Resort | 1200 Adventure Drive, Massanutten, VA 22840
Hours vary (see online calendar)
Theme parks are always a good time, but an unexpected rainy day can easily ruin your roller coaster fun. But you don’t have to worry about that at Massanutten WaterPark, as its indoor park is open every day and always heated to a balmy 84̊ F. There are fun aquatic attractions geared toward all ages, from a splash park for young children to hot springs for adults who need a break. When you’re all dried off, try Diamond Jim’s Arcade, which features a wide selection of multiplayer games.
$22-$80, free for children 2 and younger | massresort.com
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (last entry for general admission at 3:30 p.m.)
Considered one of the best aquariums in the country, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is home to more than 10,000 animals, from harbor seals to Komodo dragons. The aquarium campus also houses several temporary art exhibits that change regularly. Want even more from your aquarium experience? Go on a virtual journey in a virtual reality pod, see breaching whales on a boat tour or test your skills at the outdoor adventure park.
$24.95-$29.95; free for children 4 and younger | virginiaaquarium.com
Historic Towns
If you’re a history buff and you want a more immersive experience than a day at a museum, consider spending a weekend exploring one of Virginia’s many historic towns.
There are many options to choose from, from Thomas Jefferson’s home at Monticello in Charlottesville to the first English settlement in the U.S. at Jamestown. You and your family can explore historical buildings and set foot on sites of major events in American history. Of course, these towns also have restaurants and more modern forms of entertainment, so you can do more than just reminiscing on the nation’s past.
