Winter in Virginia is a truly magical time. Despite the cold weather, or perhaps because of it, going outside is a breathtaking experience. Not to mention the true visual transformation that even the smallest dusting of snow can inspire. That’s why some of the best winter getaways in Virginia can become memories we hold onto forever. If you’re wondering how to make the most of winter in the Old Dominion, these 10 winter day trips in Virginia should help inspire your next adventure. So bundle up and prepare to be amazed!

1. Take a ride down Virginia's epic snow tubing hill.
Wintergreen Resort, VA 22967, USA
Wintergreen Resort/Facebook
Our list of the best winter day trips in Virginia starts in the mountains. Visit Wintergreen Resort this season and you'll have your fill of snow-related activities. One that you absolutely must try is the snow tubing hill, known as "The Plunge." This family-friendly ride will take you the length of three football fields at speeds up to 30 MPH! Curious to learn more? Keep reading about what makes Wintergreen Resort such a magical winter destination in Virginia.
2. Treat yourself to a cozy mountain getaway.
Shadow Mountain Escape, 1132 Jewell Hollow Rd, Luray, VA 22835, USA
Shadow Mountain Escape/Facebook
Nestled in the mountains just a stone's throw from Shenandoah National Park, you'll find a little slice of European paradise. Shadow Mountain Escape houses authentic timber-frame cabins that are picture-perfect for a winter excursion. Whether you feel like staying inside by a cozy fire or venturing out to the park, you'll cherish your time in the mountains. Learn more about planning your winter getaway to Shadow Mountain Escape.
3. Dine in an authentic log cabin.
520 E Main St, Wytheville, VA 24382, USA
abstractdaddy/TripAdvisor
While we're on the subject of log cabins, why not enjoy a delicious dinner in one? The Log House 1776 in Wytheville is a historic building that becomes all the more magical during wintertime. Cozy up to the fireplace while you enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal. The Log House 1776 may keep temporary hours, so be sure to check out the website before planning your visit.
4. Explore Virginia's picturesque horse trails.
608 Weaver Rd, Elkton, VA 22827, USA
Mountaintop Ranch
Horseback riding is a wonderful tradition in Virginia, and those that love this activity will love the picturesque winter trails found at Mountaintop Ranch in Elkton. These guided trail rides ensure that just about everyone - beginners and experts alike - can enjoy the trails. Learn more about this one-of-a-kind horseback riding experience in Virginia.

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5. Drive through a spectacular display of 1 million lights.
Newport News Park Bikeway, Newport News, VA, USA
Newport News Special Events/Facebook
This spectacular two-mile drive is located in Newport News Park. Once you experience the glow of over 1 million lights, you'll understand why this is a hallmark holiday experience for visitors near and far. Along the way, you'll spot festive light displays, whimsical attractions, and light tunnels that you'll remember for years to come. For more information, read our article about the Celebration in Lights event.
6. Visit a beloved State Park transformed for the season.
Natural Tunnel State Park, 1420 Natural Tunnel Pkwy, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Breathtaking any time of year, Natural Tunnel State Park absolutely transforms during the winter season. From walkways adorned with Christmas lights to a ski lift that takes visitors down to the Natural Tunnel, there are countless festivities to enjoy this time of year. So bundle up and prepare to be dazzled! Learn more about all the events and attractions at Natural Tunnel State Park when you visit the Virginia State Park website.
7. Take a trip to Christmas Town.
Busch Gardens Boulevard, Busch Gardens Blvd, Virginia 23185, USA
Ricky Brigante/flickr
Located in Williamsburg, Christmas Town is an annual event at Busch Gardens that just keeps getting better. It's here that visitors can enjoy the largest display of Christmas Lights in all of North America. This enchanted Christmas village has various displays, characters, food, and other holiday treats to enjoy. For all ages, it's a true crowd-pleaser. Learn more about tickets, pricing, and additional information when you visit the Christmas Town website.
8. Visit Virginia's spectacular year-round Christmas store.
108 Main St, Smithfield, VA 23430, USA
The Christmas Store/Facebook
Are you looking to take care of some last-minute holiday shopping? You can make the experience a memorable one when you head to The Christmas Store in Smithfield. Inside you'll find one-of-a-kind decor, ornaments, gifts, stocking stuffers, and more. You might even spot St. Nick himself working away in his shop! When it comes to festive winter day trips in Virginia, it doesn't get much better than The Christmas Store.
9. Take a trip to a town where you could hibernate all winter long.
Abingdon, VA, USA
Jessica C/Flickr
Have you ever been tempted to travel to a wintery wonderland where you could hibernate all winter long? If so, a trip to the southwestern town of Abingdon is certainly in order. Whether you're strolling down the picturesque and historic Main Street or escaping to the woods for a scenic excursion, you'll love your time in this town with a population of just 8,000. Learn more about this magical winter town where you can hibernate all year round.

Virginia in winter is truly a magical time. Are there any sites or activities that you would add to this list? If so, we’d love to hear about your favorite winter day trips in Virginia! For more amazing ways to enjoy winter in Virginia, be sure to read about Virginia’s 14 most magical Christmas towns.

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Winter day trips in Virginia

Beth C. | December 13, 2021

What are the best winter attractions in Virginia?

The best winter attractions in Virginia are filled with fun, family, and lots of good memories. Here are some of the best attractions in Virginia:

 

If you're planning to spend time in Virginia this winter season, you can rest assured that there are plenty of beautiful attractions for you to experience. Even in the off-season, Virginia's natural wonders are positively breathtaking. With a little preparation, and plenty of layers, you'll have a blast exploring any of the following winter attractions in Virginia:

Peaks of Otter in Bedford, Dark Hollow Falls in Shenandoah National Park, Great Falls Park in McLean, Caledon State Park in King George, Highway 91 in Damascus, Huntley Meadows Park in Fairfax County, York River State Park in Croaker, Cotocin Mountain in Loudoun County, Wilderness Road State Park in Ewing, Mabry Mill in Meadows of Dan, George Washington's Mount Vernon in Fairfax County, and Shenandoah River State Park in Bentonville. Learn more about these magical winter destinations in Virginia.

Does Virginia have any hot springs?

Yes indeed! If you love the idea of warming up naturally by visiting a hot spring, you'll be pleased to hear that there are a few places you can go in Virginia. One of the most popular, however, can be found at the Omni Homestead Resort in Bath County. Tucked away in the Allegheny Mountains, this historic resort has attracted travelers for centuries.

One of the main draws is, of course, the healing springs that bubble up to the earth's surface and provide the most luxurious soaking waters. In fact, there are several pools on the property that are heated naturally by the thermal springs. As you swim or soak, you won't help but feel rejuvenated by the boost of minerals and warm water. Learn more about watching the snowfall from this natural hot spring in Virginia.

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