Top 10 Most Interesting Facts About Virginia

1. State Motto: "Sic Semper Tyrannis" (Thus Always to Tyrants).
2. State Bird: Northern Cardinal.
3. State Flower: American Dogwood.
4. Virginia is known as the "Mother of Presidents" because eight U.S. presidents were born here.
5. Jamestown, founded in 1607, was the first permanent English settlement in America.
6. Shenandoah National Park is home to over 500 miles of hiking trails, including part of the Appalachian Trail.
7. Virginia was one of the original 13 colonies and played a key role in the American Revolution.
8. Mount Vernon was George Washington's beloved estate and is now a popular historic site.
9. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the most scenic drives in the United States.
10. Natural Bridge was once owned by Thomas Jefferson and is considered one of the natural wonders of the world.

Geography of Virginia

Virginia's geography ranges from the Atlantic Ocean to the Appalachian Mountains:

• Highest Point: Mount Rogers (5,729 feet).
• Lowest Point: Atlantic Ocean (sea level).
• Major Rivers: James River, Potomac River, and Rappahannock River.

A Brief History of Virginia

Virginia has a rich history, from its colonial roots to its role in the Civil War:

• Virginia was the site of the first permanent English colony in America at Jamestown in 1607.
• During the American Revolution, Virginia was a key state with leaders like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
• In the Civil War, Virginia was a major battleground and home to the Confederate capital of Richmond.
• Today, Virginia celebrates its history with well-preserved landmarks and living history museums.

Top 20 Things to Do in Virginia

1. Explore Shenandoah National Park and drive along Skyline Drive.
2. Visit Colonial Williamsburg for a glimpse of 18th-century life.
3. Relax on the beaches of Virginia Beach.
4. Tour George Washington's Mount Vernon estate.
5. Discover the beauty of Luray Caverns.
6. Learn about history in Richmond's downtown area.
7. Step back in time at Jamestown Settlement.
8. Pay respects at Arlington National Cemetery.
9. Drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway.
10. Hike a section of the Appalachian Trail.
11. See the wild ponies at Chincoteague Island.
12. Admire the Natural Bridge at the state park.
13. Tour Thomas Jefferson's Monticello.
14. Visit the Virginia Aquarium in Virginia Beach.
15. Take in the views at Great Falls Park.
16. Learn about pioneer life at the Frontier Culture Museum.
17. Enjoy live performances at Wolf Trap National Park.
18. Tour the historic streets of Fredericksburg.
19. Bike or hike the Virginia Creeper Trail.
20. Have family fun at Kings Dominion amusement park.

Plan Your Visit

For more information about Virginia, visit the state's official tourism site: Visit Virginia