Places To Visit In Virginia In April From Bluebells To Historic Trails

Picture of Richmond, Virginia, With the James River and train trestle in foreground.

Virginia is a state that attracts lots of visitors due to its rich history, cultural events, and natural beauty. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, places to visit in Virginia cater to every traveler’s interest. With flowers clambering out and the temperatures rising, which makes snooping around in the fresh air an enjoyable activity. So whether you are looking for George Washington’s path, Virginia’s vineyards, Civil War history, or the multitude of opportunities for outdoor fun and historic sites found along the way, a trip around Virginia will give you just that and more.

10 Places To Visit In Virginia In April

From exploring the National Park to visiting Virginia Beach. Here are a few places to visit in Virginia in April.

1. Shenandoah National Park

The view from Naked Creek Overlook looking west in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia.

Photo: Zhen Yao / Unsplash

Shenandoah National Park bursts into spring flora during April, as wildflowers carpet the forest floor is one of the best places to visit in Virginia. More than 500 miles of trails take hikers along the Appalachian Trail and to countless overlooks and a still unpeopled forest. Skyline Drive is 105 miles north and south of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park. In April, you can get out and explore more than 75 overlooks that offer stunning views of the valley.

Top Experiences: Hike Old Rag Mountain, Explore Dark Hollow Falls
Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Dulles International Airport (IAD)

2. Colonial Williamsburg

 Facade of the Governor’s Palace, a restored historic landmark in Colonial Williamsburg.

Photo: Christian Alvarez / Unsplash

It is practically impossible to have spent a considerable amount of time in Virginia without touring Colonial Williamsburg, which is a living museum. Considering blooming gardens and pleasant walking weather, April is a fine time to see this meticulously restored 18th-century town. The period costume-clad actors bring the colonial period into life in their daily activities, interact with you and recount historical events. Major attractions include the Governor’s Palace, Bruton Parish Church, and colonial taverns. With spring come seasonal festivities, crafts, and family activities that make history lively and fun.

Top Experiences: Governor’s Palace, Watch colonial reenactments
Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF)

3. Virginia Beach

One of the best places to travel is the Virginia Beach oceanfront, boardwalk, and hotels.

Photo: Jenna Lee / Unsplash

You can enjoy Virginia Beach in April while being on vacation, many people will be visiting during this time of year. First visiting State Park is a good mix of woods and a stretch of beach along the Chesapeake Bay. The beach and Hampton are the same water bodies. It has over 19 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of sandy Chesapeake Bay beach. We usually take the Beach Trail over to where we can set up our canopy, beach chairs, cooler, and beach bag for a day at the beach.

Top Experiences: Walk the boardwalk and visit the Virginia Aquarium
Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Norfolk International Airport (ORF)

4. Monticello

This is where the city council of Monticello Arkansas meets at city hall in Virginia.

Photo: Vinson Pham / Unsplash

The historically significant home of Thomas Jefferson, Monticello, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and seems to be the ideal destination for a visit to blooming gardens in April. Monticello gives views into the life of Jefferson with additional perspectives on his innovations and beliefs. With evolving floral and vegetable gardens representative of 18th-century horticulture, the grounds provide lovely views in all directions. It also has stunning architecture for the educational experience lovers.

Top Experiences: Explore the house, gardens, and plantation
Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO)

5. Great Falls Park

 Picture clicked by the photographer of the Great Falls National Park in Virginia.

Photo: Kevin Jarrett / Unsplash

Great Falls Park is on the Potomac River and boasts awe-inspiring waterfalls and rugged cliffs. Just a short drive from Washington, D.C., you can do many activities like hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking along the river, which has extensive views. In April, trails bloom with wildflowers, providing an exquisite view where outdoor adventures blend effortlessly into the environment. Scenic overlooks of the falls provide birds-eye views while the visitor’s centre highlights the history and wildlife of the area. It is ideal for a day trip and is one of the best places to visit in Virginia in April.

Top Experiences: Hike to the falls, and enjoy a riverside picnic
Trip Duration: 1 day

6. Mount Vernon

A beautiful image of the Bailey mansion and grounds at Mount Vernon, built in 1904.

Photo: Antonella Vilardo / Unsplash

George Washington’s estate lies along the banks of the Potomac River, offering a very rich look into the life of America’s first president. Probably the best month to visit Mount Vernon, with spring-bloomed flowers in the estate gardens, the property comes to life with colour. Tour Washington’s mansion, rather extraordinary farming techniques, and a museum for his legacy. They do seasonal events and historical reenactments that bring the Revolutionary era to life. Mount Vernon is a historical treasure for all ages.

Top Experiences: Tour the mansion, visit Washington’s tomb, and explore the museum
Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

7. Chincoteague Island

Image of Chincoteague island surrounded by lush greenery, Chincoteague, Virginia.

Photo: Markus Kammermann / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

You cannot skip Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge when talking about places to visit in Virginia, as it is an excellent place for diverse habitats and wild ponies. The beach is on Assateague Island and has pristine beaches, scenic trails, and wildlife-watching opportunities. Spring migration brings in many different birds, and blooming wildflowers provide a colourful touch to the background. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are favourite activities here, drawing many nature enthusiasts. The beauty and serenity of Chincoteague make a delightful spring escape.

Top Experiences: Observe the wild ponies and birdwatching
Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

8. Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

The beautiful image of the sculptures at Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

Photo: Arno Smit / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is an exuberant 50-acre themed garden and landscape and one of the must visit places to visit in Virginia. In April, the garden blooms with a riot of tulips, daffodils, and cherry blossoms. You can explore the Conservatory, hosting exotic plants, the intricate Rose Garden, and the tranquil Asian Valley. A family-friendly attraction, with child activities and a handmade treehouse. Lewis Ginter offers seasonal events and art installations, winding walking paths and is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.

Top Experiences: See the Rose Garden, and take a guided tour
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Richmond International Airport (RIC)

9. The Blue Ridge Parkway

 Picture of Rockfish Gap with a sign displaying Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Photo: Mo Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic road in America that runs through the Appalachian Mountains for some of the finest views within the continent. It is the best place to visit in Virginia in April as the wildflowers and budding trees transform into a colourful route through the mountains in Virginia. You can get an amazing view of these mountains, take short hikes to nearby waterfalls, and enjoy the crisp, fresh air of spring. Among the key stops are the Peaks of Otter, Mabry Mill, and various hiking trails that display Virginia’s beauty. The Parkway in the spring thus makes for a relaxing and scenic road trip.

Top Experiences: Scenic drive, picnic at overlooks, spring photography
Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

10. Jamestown Settlement

Picture of a scenic beach in Jamestown, Virginia with clear water and greenery around.

Photo: Caleb Amick / Unsplash

One of the best places to visit in Virginia is the Jamestown Settlement which was constructed in the 17th century and was the first permanent English colony. This living history museum features accurate reproductions of structures, including a Powhatan Indian village, the original James Fort, and replicas of the ships that carried settlers to Virginia in 1607. It recreates colonial history composed of arts and crafts, cooking, and military drills. The artefacts of Native Americans and the English are exhibited in indoor displays, providing an excellent historical context for this important chapter in American history.

Top Experiences: Fort visit, Explore Powhatan village, Board replica ships
Trip Duration: 1 day
Near Airport: Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF)

To explore Virginia in April is to experience a profound weave of history, nature, and culture, with each destination offering something entirely different. From the everlasting calm solicitude of Colonial Williamsburg and Monticello to the aesthetic vitality of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park, Virginia promises unforgettable and thrilling adventures. So, you can book your next trip with TripXL.

Cover Photo: STEPHEN POORE / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

April is the best time to get a view of the wildflowers as they blossom. You can also visit Shenandoah National Park or the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the cherry blossoms.
You can go to Virginia Beach in April and take beach walks and do many outdoor activities with your family.
The spring festival in Virginia is in April, like the Cherry Blossom Festival in Richmond and Colonial Williamsburg.
Maryland is towards the Northwest, and the Atlantic Ocean is towards the Southeast. Carolina and West Virginia are also near.
It takes approximately 10 hours to reach Florida as it is 632 miles away from Virginia.

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