Richmond attracts visitors to its thriving arts scene, trendy neighborhoods, and culinary culture. From art galleries to theater performances, live music to colorful street art, the vibrant capital city offers a bevy of activities for families and friends in the mood for a getaway.
However, the city isn’t the only draw. When Greenvans opened its sixth office here, our team hit the road to explore the surrounding region and found it ripe with things to see and do. Within just a few hours of driving through Virginia’s mountainous landscape are battlefields, national parks, vineyards, and beautiful beaches. Renting a van in Richmond allows you the freedom to travel when and where you want, with the people that matter the most.
Check out our expert list of 31 day trips from Richmond and start planning your Virginia road trip today!
1. Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg makes for a great day trip from Richmond. Its blend of history and entertainment appeals to travelers of all ages. Begin by exploring Colonial Williamsburg, stepping back in time to experience life as it was in the 18th century. The kids will love visiting the artisan workshops with tradespeople making their craft in authentic costumes. Adults will enjoy a pint or two at a historic tavern. Close by is Busch Gardens where exhilarating rides and live shows await.
On the drive to Williamsburg from Richmond, take the scenic Colonial Parkway. Not only will you be surrounded by mountain views, but you can also stop at historic sites like the towering Yorktown Victory Monument and the Yorktown Battlefield.
Distance from Richmond: 51 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour
2. Charlottesville, Virginia
Charlottesville is a vibrant university city brimming with art, festivals, music, and history. Wander Cville’s pedestrian-friendly Main Street which boasts 120 shops and 30 restaurants, all set inside historic buildings. Take a quick drive to the outskirts of town to tour Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s sprawling estate, before apple picking with your family at Carter Mountain. If grapes are more your thing, there are plenty of world-class wineries offering tours and tastings every day of the week.
Your drive from Richmond is sure to captivate everyone, with scenes of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming farms that are easy to appreciate from the window of a comfortable van. To ride along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, take a slight detour to Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.
Distance from Richmond: 72 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes
3. Virginia Beach, Virginia
A day trip from Richmond to the coastal gem, of Virginia Beach, is ideal for the whole family. Set out early to take advantage of all the activities available here, from a sun-soaked morning on the beach to a bike ride along the boardwalk. Encounter fascinating marine life at Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and a bit of history at Cape Henry Lighthouse. Want to add more scenic lighthouses to your road trip itinerary? Explore these iconic New England’s lighthouses.
Local seafood reigns supreme on Virginia’s coast, so park yourselves at Rockafeller’s Restaurant or TuLu Seaside Bar and Grill for a delicious meal with a fantastic view. Speaking of views, don’t miss a drive along the Virginia Beach oceanfront to take in the scene of the sparkling Atlantic.
Distance from Richmond: 107 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes
4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Of all the beautiful sights in the great state of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park just might be the most captivating. It’s a natural wonderland with hiking trails for all levels, like Old Rag’s challenging climb or an easy walk to the cascading waterfalls at Dark Hollow Falls. Plus, the panoramic views from Stony Man Overlook are the perfect backdrop for your group travel photo.
There are magnificent overlooks on Skyline Drive, the park’s only public road. Take a moment to pull over and snap a picture at Big Meadows lookout point on your ride. If you’re hungry after a day of exploring, stop at Skyland for a delicious meal. It’s a great opportunity to relax and talk about your experience together!
Distance from Richmond: 94 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour 25 minutes
5. Washington, D.C.
An escape to Washington, D.C. for the day is a must but, if we can be honest, it’s even better for a weekend. This allows for time to visit the capital’s national monuments, world-class museums, and the diverse cultural events you can find here on any given day. Take a family photo in front of the Lincoln Memorial, learn something new at the Smithsonian museums, and have lunch in vibrant Georgetown.
Plan out a historic road trip to Washington, D.C. by taking Route 15 from Richmond. Pass through Northern Virginia’s most iconic sites such as Mount Vernon, George Washington’s plantation, and Manassas National Battlefield Park, where significant Civil War battles took place. Renting a van from Washington D.C. is a comfortable way to travel while also providing enough space to fit all your overnight bags!
Planning to travel around the holidays? Here’s a pro tip: Washington, D.C. was ranked as one of the best places to spend New Years!
Distance from Richmond: 109 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes
6. Baltimore, Maryland
Whether you’re road-tripping with family, friends, or your partner, Baltimore is a destination guaranteed to make everyone happy. Why not rent a 15-passenger van and take your family for a weekend getaway on the Inner Harbour?
The waterfront is home to lots of dining, shopping, and entertainment, not to mention historic US battleships open for tours! If you’re traveling with kids who love animals, the National Aquarium is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Baltimore’s historic architecture is most apparent in Fell’s Point and Mount Vernon, two lively neighborhoods brimming with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
For a break from the bustling city life, head out for a leisurely drive through the Chesapeake Bay area. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the parks and wildlife refuges, such as the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, known for its diverse bird population.
Distance from Richmond: 153 miles
Road trip travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes
7. Fredericksburg, Virginia
Clocking in at just under an hour away, Fredericksburg is an ideal day trip from Richmond. It’s a small but energetic city of art galleries, chef-owned restaurants, unique shops, and colonial architecture. There is always a community event going on, so if you’re traveling around the holidays check out the Downtown Cookie Crawl or tea-tasting party.
Historians can visit Civil War battlefields like Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, while outdoor enthusiasts might prefer kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the Rappahannock River. Speaking of the river, take a drive along the scenic byways of Route 3 and Route 17 where you can experience picturesque views while passing through charming towns and rolling countryside.
Distance from Richmond: 59 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour
8. Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk is a dynamic city close to Richmond offering a wide array of attractions. It’s home to Naval Station Norfolk, where 45-minute tours will take you past aircraft carriers, destroyers, and amphibious assault ships. Additionally, cruises aboard the Victory Rover are available, showcasing the world’s largest naval base and sights of the harbor.
Art fans might want to visit the Chrysler Museum of Art before an afternoon of waterfront activities such as boat tours, paddle boarding, and waterfront dining. If you’ve rented a 15-passenger van for the trip, bring your travel companions for a ride along Hampton Roads Harbor to see views of the harbor, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, and the iconic Cape Henry Lighthouse. Along the way are memorable stops like the Nauticus Maritime Museum and the Virginia Zoo.
Distance from Richmond: 99 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes
9. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
If you’re looking for a small, friendly town that offers hiking, history, and magnificent views, Harpers Ferry is for you! At Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, you and your family can spend a day exploring the preserved 19th-century town, visiting museums, and trekking Appalachian trails. Downtown offers cozy restaurants to relax over a good meal and a great glass of local wine.
The drive from Richmond takes you through Shenandoah Valley and the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. Don’t miss the many opportunities to stop for scenic overlooks. Want lunch with a view? One of the most convenient perks of renting a van is space — there’s plenty of it, so you can bring along a basket of food and drinks, silverware and cups, and a big blanket for a picnic with spectacular views!
Distance from Richmond: 167 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours 40 minutes
10. Annapolis, Maryland
One of the best places around Richmond to take a day or overnight trip is Annapolis, the charming capital of Maryland. Optimal for both families and couples, its seamless blend of history and maritime culture is centered around the U.S. Naval Academy, open for touring on foot or by electric car.
The architecture downtown showcases beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings, notably the Maryland State House. Because the city is situated on the Chesapeake Bay, you can enjoy delightful waterfront dining experiences, like the renowned Chart House and Carrol’s Creek Cafe.
En route to and from Annapolis, map out Routes 5 and 2 so you can drive alongside the vast and sparkling Chesapeake Bay.
Distance from Richmond: 245 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes
11. Pocahontas State Park
Are you looking for a quick trip out of the city and into nature? Pocahontas State Park, nestled in Chesterfield, is close by and full of outdoor adventures for your family. Spend the day boating on Swift Creek Lake or exploring the park’s rich heritage at the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum. Pack your boots for some hiking through trails, bring a prepared lunch for picnicking by the lake, or throw your bikes into the back of the van and go mountain biking! After you’re done, don’t miss a drive along Route 10 for picturesque views of the James River.
Distance from Richmond: 20 miles
Road trip travel time: 25 minutes
12. Luray Caverns, Virginia
Luray Caverns is a quintessential day trip in Virginia that is sure to surprise everyone. It’s an underground wonderland of towering stone structures and formations. A tour will uncover unique gems like the Great Stalacpipe Organ, a musical instrument played by using stalactites. Back at ground level, children will have a blast making their way through the intricate onsite garden maze. After a late morning at the caverns, check out the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum’s collection of vintage cars and horse-drawn carriages.
Give yourself plenty of time to detour to the Shenandoah Valley countryside where you can drive along winding roads and dramatic mountains. To access Skyline Drive, enter Shenandoah National Park at the Thornton Gap Entrance Station.
Distance from Richmond: 124 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes
13. Lexington, Virginia
Outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a small-town experience will relish a trip to Lexington. For starters, it’s home to the renowned Virginia Military Institute (VMI) which displays its legacy of military education and offers guided tours. Inside Natural Bridge State Park is a 215-foot tall bridge of limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. Surrounding the geographic marvel are trails, meadows, and the 30-foot Lace Falls cascade.
When you’re ready to relax, Lexington’s historic downtown is brimming with charming shops, eateries, and landmarks like the Stonewall Jackson House. Renting a van guarantees each passenger has an unobstructed view of Rockbridge County’s beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, and idyllic countryside vistas.
Distance from Richmond: 141 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours 5 minutes
14. Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Visiting Chincoteague Island is a must for families and wildlife lovers. Located off Virginia’s Eastern Shore, the island offers a unique coastal experience known for a population of wild ponies, which can be observed during the annual Pony Swim. Each July, cowboys shepherd the wild ponies through the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island for an auction. Your kids will love it!
Chincoteague Island boasts pristine beaches where you can relax, swim, or bird watch. Assateague Island, adjacent to Chincoteague, is a protected national seashore known for its untouched nature and diverse wildlife. For panoramic views of the islands and the bay, climb to the top of Assateague Lighthouse. To arrive at the islands, plan your route along Virginia’s Eastern Shore, passing through peaceful seaside towns and waterfront views.
Distance from Richmond: 190 miles
Road trip travel time: 3 hours 25 minutes
15. Hampton, Virginia
Hampton is a great day trip from Virginia for history enthusiasts. Families can spend a morning in awe at The Virginia Air & Space Center’s interactive exhibits and aircraft displays. Take the afternoon to explore Fort Monroe, a historic military installation where ramparts and moats are open for discovery.
Close by is the historic Jamestown settlement, Civil War battlefields, and the iconic Hampton University opened in 1868 for African American men freed after the American Civil War. When you’ve had your fill of the past, hit up one of Hampton’s beautiful, serene beaches for sunbathing and water activities.
Distance from Richmond: 77 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes
16. Roanoke, Virginia
One of Virginia’s major cities is Roanoke, a drive of just three hours through the rolling countryside. It’s a great destination for friends and families who love art, science, and nature. Hike to the Mill Mountain Star, an 88-foot illuminated structure created in 1949 and still standing tall as Roanoke’s city symbol. Next, get your creative fix at The Taubman Museum of Art and the Science Museum of Western Virginia. Planning to extend your road trip to incorporate a visit to the mountains? You’re in luck because Blue Ridge Parkway access can be found at Explore Park.
If you rent a 15-passenger van from Richmond, plan a family road trip along I-64 West to I-81 South, catching views of the Shenandoah Valley stopping along the way at roadside attractions like Natural Bridge, Luray Caverns, and the Frontier Culture Museum.
Distance from Richmond: 189 miles
Road trip travel time: 3 hours
17. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland
Located on the coasts of Maryland and Virginia is Assateague Island National Seashore, an ideal getaway for plant and wildlife lovers. Only here can you see the majestic wild horses that roam freely on the island, a sight that no child or adult will soon forget. The untouched beaches provide opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing with your family. Throughout the island are many trails ripe for exploring the island’s diverse ecosystems, including marshes and forests.
This is a great region for a road trip, so rent a van and gather your beach-loving friends for a beautiful ride along Maryland’s coast. From the island, head north, passing through Ocean City, Rehoboth, and Lewes beaches while soaking in the Atlantic Ocean breeze while you ride.
Distance from Richmond: 200 miles
Road trip travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes
18. Chesapeake Bay, Virginia
A must-see on a road trip in Virginia is the Chesapeake Bay. Water enthusiasts will be in paradise with the seemingly unending opportunities for sailing, fishing, and cruising. Seafood lovers can indulge in delicious crab dishes, fresh oysters, and other local catches. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel connects the Eastern Shore of Virginia to the mainland at a distance of 17.6 miles and is a thrilling ride for children and adults alike.
Rent a van in Richmond and set out on a coastal adventure with your family or friends. We suggest taking I-64 east through Newport News for its scenic views of the bay. Along the way, check out various roadside attractions such as historic towns, lighthouses, and nature reserves that showcase the beauty and heritage of the Chesapeake Bay region.
Distance from Richmond: 129 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours 15 minutes
19. Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia
For a relaxing escape into nature, hit the road toward Smith Mountain Lake. Snug in the Blue Ridge foothills of Virginia, this family-friendly destination boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line for local bass, crappie, and catfish.
A ride through winding roads and lush greenery of the Blue Ridge foothills is a must, where you can stop in small towns like Moneta and Huddleston to get to know the area. Pro tip: plug Peaks of Otter into your GPS for a pit stop, you’ll be happy you did.
Distance from Richmond: 150 miles
Road trip travel time: 3 hours
20. St. Michaels, Maryland
St. Michaels is a delightful waterfront town on the Eastern Shore and is one of our favorite road trips from Richmond because you can extend your journey to include stops in Fredericksburg, D.C., and Annapolis. Upon arrival at St. Michaels, check out the Maritime Museum, browse through boutique shops, and spend a day boating on the bay. What sets St. Michaels apart is its historic allure, with well-preserved buildings and a deep-rooted maritime heritage.
Enhance your getaway with a lovely drive through the Eastern Shore’s quaint towns of Easton, Oxford, and Chestertown. Consider an overnight stay in Easton to explore its attractive arts scene and delicious local cuisine.
Distance from Richmond: 190 miles
Road trip travel time: 3 hours
21. Sky Meadows State Park, Virginia
For families that love nature, Sky Meadows State Park makes a great day trip from Richmond. Hike through forests and meadows toward summits like Piedmont Overlook or the farmstead-turned-museum Mount Bleak House. Pack the van with a picnic basket and blanket, as the park offers plenty of outdoor areas to enjoy a meal with beautiful vistas.
Plan to drive through Fauquier and Clarke Counties for undulating hills, quaint farms, and picturesque landscapes. Roadside stops are abundant and include wineries, farm stands, and Civil War battlefields.
Distance from Richmond: 117 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes
22. Solomons, Maryland
Located on the Patuxent River lies Solomons, a waterfront town with a bright personality. Whether you’re traveling with family or your partner, there’s plenty here to fill a day. The town itself has marinas, restaurants, bars with great views, museums, shopping, a riverwalk, and spots for watching more than 160 bird species!
The Calvert Marine Museum showcases marine life, fascinating fossils, and local maritime history, as well as opportunities to explore marshes and oyster houses. The Annmarie Sculpture Garden is an enchanting display of public art on loan from the Smithsonian that harmonizes with the beauty of Solomon’s nature.
Head out for a drive along the Patuxent River shoreline, enjoying beautiful vistas at every turn. While you’re at it, stop at Flag Ponds Nature Park and Jefferson Patterson Park for hiking and historical sites.
Distance from Richmond: 111 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours
23. Bethany Beach, Delaware
Looking for seaside charm, quiet beaches, and family-friendly activities? Bethany Beach is your answer. Here you can find an activity to make everyone happy, from the tranquil coastline of South Bethany and Fenwick Island State Park to mini golf and arcade games on Bethany’s bustling boardwalk.
It’s also an excellent overnight stay while on a road trip up the coast of Delaware. Rehoboth Beach boasts vibrant shops and restaurants, while Cape Henlopen State Park offers nature trails and historic sites. Don’t miss Lewes, with its charming downtown and maritime heritage, or Dewey Beach, known for its nightlife and beach parties. This coastal road trip promises a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and seaside fun, so rent a van from Richmond and hit the road to Delaware!
Distance from Richmond: 240 miles
Road trip travel time: 4 hours
24. Cape Charles, Virginia
Another ideal day trip from Richmond is Cape Charles, a coastal heaven brimming with life. Start your visit with a walk along the sandy shores of Cape Charles Beach and Kiptopeke State Park. Head downtown to Main Street, where the shops, galleries, and eateries offer a delightful blend of history and small-town ambiance.
Want something more stimulating? Cape Charles Kayak offers exhilarating kayaking excursions to discover the marshes of Chesapeake Bay. Speaking of, do not miss the chance to drive over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Spanning 17.6 miles and panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay, watch as ships, dolphins, and the occasional pelican pass by.
Distance from Richmond: 129 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours
25. Front Royal, Virginia
Front Royal is known as the gateway to Shenandoah National Park and is a perfect starting point for an outdoor adventure. Active families and groups of friends can explore the park’s beauty while hiking the Appalachian Trail. Canoeing on the serene Shenandoah River is a must-do activity for wildlife lovers to spot black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and herons.
A drive along the northern end of Skyline Drive takes you past cascading waterfalls and abundant wildlife sightings. Stop at popular overlooks like Dickey Ridge Visitor Center and Compton Gap for panoramic views and spots to take incredible photos with your travel companions, locking in some tangible memories of what’s sure to be an unforgettable road trip!
Distance from Richmond: 127 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours
26. Ocean City, Maryland
Instead of a day trip from Richmond, why not take a weekend trip to Ocean City? A few days will allow you and your travel buddies to fit in time at the beach, boardwalk, and perhaps one of the city’s year-round festivals.
Spend the day swimming or playing beach volleyball before an evening strolling the shops and rides on Ocean City Boardwalk. If you’re visiting with your sweetie, impress them with a romantic beach walk, sunset cruise, or waterfront dining. Friends can have a blast with watersports, beach parties, and bar-hopping.
Maryland is a great place to road trip. Ride along the Coastal Highway and gaze out at the deep blue Atlantic Ocean, taking time to stop in unique destinations like Chincoteague Island or any of the small towns on the Chesapeake Bay.
Distance from Richmond: 227 miles
Road trip travel time: 4 hours
27. George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Virginia
Spanning over 1.8 million acres, the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are the garden of Eden for those looking for a nature escape. A family getaway to George Washington National Forest means hiking the iconic Appalachian Trail, where sweeping vistas await at McAfee Knob and Tinker Cliffs. The landscapes here are diverse, ranging from forests and mountains to waterfalls and lakes, home to gray foxes, red-tailed hawks, and turtles!
The Appalachian region makes for a great road trip. Rent a spacious van, invite some friends, and hit the road from Richmond, stopping in small towns like Roanoke and Staunton to get a feel for the local history, culture, and Appalachian charm.
Distance from Richmond: 131 miles
Road trip travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes
28. Cumberland, Maryland
Did you know that the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers a scenic journey with spectacular views of the Allegheny Mountains? If that sounds like something you and your family might enjoy, make your way to Cumberland!
Cumberland offers a range of activities, from hiking and biking on the C&O Canal Towpath to exploring the Allegany Museum. It’s home to a quaint and historic downtown complete with shops, galleries, and restaurants to please every palate. A drive through Western Maryland showcases rolling hills, lush forests, and small towns peppered throughout its rural landscape.
Distance from Richmond: 236 miles
Road trip travel time: 3 hours 29 minutes
29. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia
One of the most epic road trips you can take is along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The 469-mile passage links Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Smoky Mountains in North Carolina. The good news is you can rent a van in Richmond and drive just over an hour to the North End entrance, where your adventure can officially begin.
There are so many places to stop and things to see along the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s important to take your time planning this great adventure! One favorite is the Apple Orchard Mountain Overlook, the highest point on the parkway. Another must-see is Peaks of Otter Lodge, abundant with trails, camping, water activities, and even a restaurant. Mabry Mill is one of the most popular stops on this route, where you can see its famous, weather-worn mill and water wheel, built in 1792, which is conveniently surrounded by hiking trails to stretch your legs.
Distance from Richmond: 93 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour 22 minutes
30. Reedville, Virginia
Want to avoid the tourist crowd? Take your family or partner on an easy day trip to Reedville, a hidden gem nestled in the Northern Neck peninsula. The town’s Victorian architecture adds an alluring touch to its design while making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Check out the Reedville Fishermen’s Museum’s exhibits on traditional fishing techniques. Now, put those old-school fishing tips to the test on a charter fishing trip where you, or the captain, can catch some fresh seafood for dinner.
Make your way through the Northern Neck peninsula on a leisurely drive past waterways, lush farmlands, and villages. Make pit stops at Stratford Hall, the birthplace of Robert E. Lee, and George Washington’s Birthplace National Monument, before making your way back to Richmond.
Distance from Richmond: 93 miles
Road trip travel time: 1 hour 22 minutes
31. Danbury, North Carolina
One of the places around Richmond that energetic travelers cannot miss is Danbury. There’s a plethora of activity to be found here, with views to boot. Hanging Rock State Park is a must-visit attraction, complete with hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, mesmerizing views, and rushing waterfalls, including the iconic Lower Cascades and Hidden Falls. It’s both a rugged and serene destination, perfect for families or groups of sporty friends.
The only way to experience this region is from the road. Factor in a scenic drive through the undulating hills, farmland, and villages of North Carolina’s Piedmont region. Close by are natural attractions worth exploring like Pilot Mountain State Park and the Yadkin Valley wine region.
Distance from Richmond: 204 miles
Road trip travel time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Enjoy your Virginia day trips in style with Greenvans!
In just one state, you can go from mountain peaks to farmland, rock climbing to bass fishing, Civil War sites to dinner in colonial downtowns that simply drip with Southern hospitality. Richmond is an ideal starting point for a Virginia adventure due to its lengthy list of nearby destinations ideal for both day and overnight trips.
Everywhere you go, the views are spectacular, and that’s why this region is best admired from the comfort of your spacious 15-passenger van rental. With its spacious interior, comfortable seats, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, and USB ports, every traveler is guaranteed to enjoy the ride.
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