When most people think of traveling in Virginia, the first thing that comes to mind is its historical attractions. After all, this is the birthplace of America! There are plenty of sites that Virginia is known for, which commemorate important moments in history. But if you’re looking for an immersive travel experience, there’s so much more to see in Virginia.
From stunning natural landscapes to world-class museums, here are some of the famous things Virginia is known for.
Famous Food In Virginia
Blue Crabs
The blue crab is a type of crab that is found in the Chesapeake Bay, and it is considered a delicacy in Virginia. The meat is sweet and delicate, and the crabs are typically steamed or boiled. Crabbing is a popular hobby in Virginia, and the crabs are also used in crab cakes and other recipes.
The blue crab season typically runs from April to November, and these are some of the most famous foods of Virginia.
Oysters
Oysters are another type of seafood that is popular in Virginia. They are often eaten raw, and they are also used in recipes such as oyster stew, clam chowder, and sushi. Oysters can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and other bodies of water along the Virginia coast. You can probably see that Virginia has a pretty prominent seafood industry.
Peanuts
Virginia is also known for its peanuts production and is one of the top peanut-producing states in the country. Peanuts are a staple of the Virginia diet. They are used in many different dishes, including peanut soup, peanut brittle, and boiled peanuts. Peanuts are also commonly given as gifts, and Virginia peanuts are considered to be some of the best in the world.
Pimento Cheese
Pimento cheese is a type of cheese spread that is popular in the southeastern United States. It is made with cheddar cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise. Pimento cheese is often served as a dip, on crackers, or in sandwiches. The perfect complement for all sorts of snacks.
Virginia Ham
Virginia ham is a type of cured ham that is made in the state of Virginia. The ham is dry-cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices, and it is typically smoked over hickory wood. Virginia ham is a popular ingredient in many dishes, including biscuits and gravy, omelets, and pasta dishes.
History Of Virginia
Virginia is known for its long and rich history. It is the birthplace of America, and there are plenty of historical sites around the state that commemorate important moments in history. But Virginia’s history doesn’t just stop at the Revolutionary War. In 1607, Virginia was actually the first permanent Anglo settlement in the Americas.
Here are some historical events that Virginia is known for.
Birthplace Of America
Virginia is known as the birthplace of America because it was the site of the first permanent English colony in North America. The colony was established at Jamestown in 1607, and it was the first time that Europeans attempted to settle in North America.
The American Revolution
Virginia played a significant role in the American Revolution, and many of the most important battles were fought in the state. The Battle of Great Bridge was the first major victory for the Continental Army, and the Battle of Yorktown was the last major battle of the war.
The Civil War
Virginia was also a key state during the Civil War, as it was home to both the Confederate and Union capitals. It was the site of many major battles. Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy, and many important battles were fought in the state, including the Battles of Bull Run and Chancellorsville.
Virginia Witch Trials
In 1626, a group of English settlers arrived in Jamestown, Virginia, and brought with them the first recorded instance of witch hysteria in North America. The settlers accused a woman named Grace Sherwood of being a witch, and she was convicted and jailed. She was later released, but the incident sparked a wave of witch trials in Virginia.
First Thanksgiving In North America
The first Thanksgiving in North America was held in Virginia in 1619. The event was actually a celebration of the arrival of a shipment of food from England, and it was not held again until 1621.
“Give Me Liberty Or Give Me Death” Speech
In 1775, Patrick Henry gave his famous “Give me Liberty or Give me Death” speech at the Second Virginia Convention in St John’s Church. The speech was a call to arms for the colonists, and it helped to rally support for the American Revolution. It is considered to be one of the most important speeches in American history.
Culture, Traditions, And Industries
With a long history comes a lot of culture and tradition. And because of the state’s location on the East Coast, Virginia has been influenced by both Northern and Southern cultures. Here are some things that Virginia is known for.
The Virginia Reel
The Virginia Reel is a traditional dance that originated in the state of Virginia. The dance is typically done to the tune of “Dixie,” and it is usually done in a square formation. The Virginia Reel is a popular dance at country fairs, weddings, and other celebrations.
Internet Capital Of The world
Virginia has been nicknamed the Internet Capital of the world because it is home to many major Internet and tech companies. Companies such as AOL, Amazon, and Google all have a presence in Virginia, and the state is also home to many data centers.
“Pony Penning” Roundup
“Pony Penning” is an annual event that is held on Chincoteague Island, Virginia. The event involves rounding up wild ponies from the island and swimming them across a channel to the mainland. The ponies are then auctioned off, and the proceeds go to the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company.
Tobacco
Virginia is known for its tobacco production. The state produces a type of tobacco called Virginia Brightleaf, which is used in many popular brands of cigarettes, including Marlboro and Camel. Virginia is also the home of the tobacco auction, where farmers from all over the world come to sell their tobacco.
The state actually did not start with tobacco production, but the crop was introduced in the 1600s and quickly became a major part of the state’s economy.
Cities And Travel Destinations
Virginia has much to offer for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the more prominent cities and travel destinations that Virginia is known for.
The Appalachian Mountains And Trail
The Appalachian Mountain range is a major tourist attraction that runs through Virginia and offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping. The mountains are a beautiful sight, and the trails are great for exploring the area’s natural beauty.
This is the oldest mountain range in America and goes for over 1,500 miles. The mountains are also home to many different types of plants and animals, making them a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The mountains are estimated to be over 400 million years old.
Assateague Islands
The Assateague Islands are a chain of barrier islands off the coast of Virginia. The islands are known for the wild ponies, which roam freely on the beautiful beaches. The best time to see the ponies in acion is from April to October.
The Assateague islands are also a popular destination for bird watching, as they are home to many different types of birds. You can reach the islands by ferry from Virginia Beach, and there is a campground on the island for visitors to use.
Norfolk
Norfolk is a city in Virginia that is known for its naval base and maritime history. The city is also home to many different museums, including the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Virginia Zoo. Norfolk is also home to the largest naval base in the world, which is located in the city’s harbor.
The city is a popular tourist destination, and it is also home to many different businesses and industries. Norfolk is a major port city, and it is also a major center for banking and finance.
Richmond
Richmond is the capital of Virginia, and it is also one of the state’s largest cities. The city is known for its historical landmarks, including the Virginia State Capitol and the Richmond National Battlefield Park. The city is also home to many different museums, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Valentine Museum.
Richmond is a popular tourist destination, and it is also a major center for business and finance. The city is also home to many different colleges and universities, including the University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University.
Williamsburg
Williamsburg is a city in Virginia that is known for its colonial history. The city was the capital of the Colony of Virginia from 1699 to 1780, and it is home to many historical landmarks, including the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area. The city is also home to the College of William & Mary, which is the second oldest college in the United States.
Williamsburg is a popular tourist destination, and it is also a major center for education and research. The city is also home to many different businesses and industries.
Roanoke
The city of Roanoke is located in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. The city is a popular tourist destination because of its beautiful scenery and its many historical landmarks. Roanoke is also home to the Roanoke Colony, which was the first English settlement in America.
The city is also known for its arts and culture scene, and it is home to many different museums and galleries.
Famous People From Virginia
These are some of the most famous people from Virginia. There are many other notable figures from the state, including several U.S. Presidents, athletes, and entertainers.
George Washington
George Washington was the first President of the United States, and he is one of the most famous historical figures in American history.
Washington was born in Virginia in 1732, and he grew up on his parents’ plantation, Mount Vernon. Washington served in the French and Indian War, and he was later elected to the Continental Congress. In 1775, he was chosen to be the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Washington led the American army to victory in the Revolutionary War, and he was later elected as the first President of the United States.
Washington served two terms as President, and he is considered one of the most important figures in American history.
Sandra Bullock
Sandra Bullock is an American actress and producer. She was born in Arlington, Virginia, in 1964.
Bullock began her acting career in the early 1990s, and she has since appeared in many films and television shows. She has won several awards for her work, including an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Bullock is one of the most popular actresses in Hollywood, and she is also a successful producer. In 2010, she founded the production company Fortis Films.
Arthur Ashe
Arthur Ashe was a professional tennis player and civil rights activist. He was born in Richmond, Virginia, in 1943.
Ashe began playing tennis at a young age, and he rose to prominence in the 1960s. He won several major championships, including the Wimbledon singles title in 1975. He was also the first African American to be ranked as the world’s No. 1 tennis player.
Ashe retired from tennis in 1980, and he later became involved in civil rights activism. He founded the Arthur Ashe Foundation for the Defeat of AIDS, and he was also a vocal advocate for racial equality. Ashe died in 1993, and he was posthumously inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2005.
Pharrell Williams
Pharrell Williams is an American singer, songwriter, and producer. He was born in Virginia Beach, Virginia, in 1973.
Williams rose to fame in the early 2000s as a member of the hip-hop group The Neptunes. He has since produced and written songs for many different artists, including Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, and Jay-Z. In 2013, he released his own solo album, “G I R L,” which was a critical and commercial success.
Williams is also a successful fashion designer, and he has his own clothing line called Billionaire Boys Club. He is also the co-founder of the music streaming service Tidal.
Architecture And Landmarks
Virginia is also home to numerous historical landmarks and tourist attractions. Here are some famous ones that Virginia is known for.
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountain ranges and is arguably the most popular natural landmark in Virginia. The park is home to many different types of plants and animals, and it is a paradise for hikers and campers. Nested within the greenery are also many scenic overlooks, making it a popular spot for photographers.
The park was established in 1935 and covers over 300 sq miles. It is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, with over a million visitors each year.
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is a United States military cemetery located in Arlington, Virginia. The cemetery is the final resting place for many American soldiers and their families.
The cemetery was established in 1864 during the American Civil War, and it is now the largest military cemetery in the United States. Over 400,000 people are buried at Arlington National Cemetery, including many notable figures such as John F. Kennedy, Robert E. Lee, and Audie Murphy.
The cemetery is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a monument to soldiers who have died in battle without their bodies being identified.
The Pentagon
The Pentagon is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. It is located in Arlington, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C.
The Pentagon was designed by architect George Bergstrom and completed in 1943. It is one of the largest office buildings in the world, with over 6 million sq ft of office space.
The Pentagon is home to over 23,000 military and civilian employees. It is also the site of the Pentagon Memorial, which honors the victims of the September 11th attacks.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon was the plantation estate of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The estate is in Mount Vernon, Virginia.
Mount Vernon was originally owned by Washington’s great-grandfather. Washington inherited the estate in 1754 and lived there until his death in 1799.
Today, Mount Vernon is a popular tourist destination and museum. The plantation is open to the public, and visitors can tour the grounds and see the historic buildings. The estate includes the main house, several outbuildings, and the famous gardens.
The Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile-long highway that runs through Virginia and North Carolina. The parkway is one of the most scenic roads passing through Virginia.
It was built between 1935 and 1987, and it is open to both cars and bicycles. The parkway is known for its beautiful scenery, with many overlooks that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Jamestown Settlement
Jamestown is a historical site in Virginia that was the first permanent English settlement in North America. The original fort and settlement were established in 1607, and it was here that the first representative legislative assembly in the Americas met in 1619. Jamestown is now a living history museum, and it is a popular tourist destination.
Discover More Things Virginia Is Known And Famous For
These are just some examples of what Virginia is known for. There are many other things that make the state unique, and there is something for all types of visitors to discover.
Virginia is known for its beautiful scenery, its rich history, and its many famous people. The state is home to several iconic landmarks and attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Virginia is a great place to live, work, and visit.
