Whether traveling groups are on the lookout for beautiful beaches, historic escapes or modern-day fun, eastern Virginia delivers in a dynamic way.

From the living history of Colonial Williamsburg to some of America’s most captivating coastlines and everything in between, Virginia is accessible, inviting and bursting with a diversity of offerings that few areas can match. Here’s a look at five highly hospitable hot spots for discerning travelers to consider for their next unforgettable excursion.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg, nestled halfway between Richmond and Washington, D.C., is easy to reach and even easier to explore and is home to a wealth of allures that include pivotal places tied to America’s origins, Civil War conflicts and the Civil Rights Movement.   

“Fredericksburg itself is a battlefield,” said Victoria Matthews, tourism sales manager for the city, referring to the Battle of Fredericksburg, a major Civil War victory for the Confederacy in 1862, as well as three other battles fought there.

The city was also George Washington’s boyhood home, and his mother’s burial site is in Fredericksburg. Today, groups can explore the city’s rich background in a 40-block historic district, at a military park Matthews called “a great way to explore the local history,” and on group tours that include a self-guided trek exploring the area’s vital role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Matthews also touts Fredericksburg’s “really vibrant downtown that includes a good mix of historic sites, boutiques and art galleries,” as well as numerous group-friendly restaurants offering a gamut of flavors to appeal to travelers’ tastes.

Options include Alpine Chef, a German-themed dining spot set in the city’s historic train depot, with occasional trains still rumbling by adding to the authentic ambience, and La Petite Auberge and its elegant setting serving fine French and Mediterranean fare. Another favorite dining spot with a European focus is Ristorante Renato, presenting an old-school Italian ambience inside a historic building that makes it a preferred choice for special occasions of all kinds.

For sports-minded groups, Matthews urged visitors to consider a trip to Virginia Credit Union Stadium from early April to early September, when the minor league Fredericksburg Nationals take the field in the “cool stadium” that includes an eco-friendly turf field employing coconut husks and sand, keeping temperatures on the field much lower for players during the summer months. The stadium departs from traditional spectator rows to offer several dynamic viewing areas ranging from party decks with tabled seating to a “scoreboard suite” that actually lets fans partake in updating the scoreboard.

fxbg.com

Virginia Beach

While it probably won’t surprise anyone that Virginia Beach is home to some of the East Coast’s most enticing stretches of sand, many might not be aware of the area’s other exciting options — or ways to explore its waterside wonders.

“The shining star is definitely our beaches,” said Erin Goldmeier, director of media relations for Visit Virginia Beach, adding that visiting groups should also explore the city’s history, culture and shopping, not to mention its heralded Military Aviation Museum. The venue is home to one of the world’s largest collections of military aircraft and hosts breathtaking flight demonstrations every week during the summer months.

Goldmeier said the bounty of beaches is broken into three distinct areas: the main resort area, Chesapeake Bay and Sandbridge, just outside of downtown. The Resort Beach is a lively hub of eating spots, arcades, bars and live music stages, while Chesapeake Bay Beach — aka Chic’s Beach — is a bit more mellow and serene, including its calm bay waters. Sandbridge, on the south side, has a more removed and residential feel and is right by the naturally scenic Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park.

Groups wanting to get out on the waves can indulge in dolphin- and whale-watching trips, dinner cruises and even sunset kayak tours perfect for smaller groups.

But Virginia Beach is home to plenty of fun away from the water as well, including the ViBe creative district that is host to restaurants, coffee shops and “really beautiful murals,” Goldmeier said. The artistic neighborhood is even home to an annual Muralfest, which will kick off its ninth annual rendition in October. The yearly affair features 10 artists handpicked to add to the city’s growing array of murals, which now numbers more than 80.

Local dining focuses on the fantastic seafood that is so abundant in the area, with top choices ranging from the iconic Waterman’s Surfside Grille to the lively and casual Chick’s Oyster Bar.

For travelers seeking “serenity now,” Goldmeier suggested Edgar Cayce’s Association for Research and Enlightenment, a one-of-a-kind center named for America’s first well-known clairvoyant.

“It’s very popular, with tours and activities like yoga and meditation,” Goldmeier said. “It’s truly a very Virginia Beach-centric setting, with a spa, walking labyrinth and gardens. You can’t experience a venue like this anywhere else.”

visitvirginiabeach.com

Williamsburg

Not many destinations, if any, can rival Williamsburg’s connection to our nation’s early origins, reflected in its official slogan, “Where America’s Journey Began.” And even beyond Colonial history, the region has plenty to offer traveling groups.

“Few destinations can combine 400 years of history with world-class attractions and Southern hospitality,” said Edward Harris, president and CEO of Visit Williamsburg. “We’re a place with a lot of diversity and manageable, too. And it’s a cliché to say it, but there really is something here for everyone. Groups can begin the day with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg and the Revolutionary Museum, maybe an afternoon at Busch Gardens or sailing along the river, and finish up the night at a unique tavern or restaurant.”

Forming “America’s Historic Triangle” along with neighboring Jamestown and Yorktown, the region is a huge group magnet, drawing a wide range of visitors, from military reunions and faith-based travelers to corporate retreats, Harris said. Colonial Williamsburg, which he referred to as the largest living history museum in the world, is a major attraction.

“History is happening all around you here,” Harris said. “It’s not behind glass, like many history museums. There’s no better place to reflect on where America started.”

For a completely different experience, groups can visit the sprawling Busch Gardens, which is “one of the best theme parks in America,” he said. The popular attraction is home to thrill rides and animal areas ranging from Eagle Ridge to Wolf Haven. But its biggest appeal is likely the European-themed villages, including England, Ireland, France and Italy. Groups can feel a world away from it all, immersed in the culture, cuisine and architecture of the old country, without setting foot on a plane.

Harris also suggested active groups visit the new Greater Williamsburg Sports and Events Center, which includes 12 basketball courts convertible to 24 volleyball courts or 36 pickleball surfaces, an Interactive Adventure Gym and more.

visitwilliamsburg.com

Alexandria

A stone’s throw from the nation’s capital, Alexandria serves up its own blend of rich history, dining and waterfront spaces in a more leisurely and less-crowded setting, according to Todd O’Leary, Visit Alexandria’s president and CEO.

The easily accessible city is just minutes from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and is also served by four Metrorail stations and Amtrak; once groups arrive, they’ll find it just as stress-free to get around. The walkable city, particularly its popular Old Town historic district, is overflowing with restaurants, attractions and museums.

O’Leary also touted Alexandria’s group treks and outings, which run the gamut from foodie fun to ghosts and graveyards. Other options include hopping on a water taxi for scenic jaunts down the Potomac River or clambering aboard the King Street Trolley for a complimentary ride. Visitors can partake in more-interactive experiences like pizza-making classes at Mia’s Italian Kitchen, cocktail making at BARCA Pier & Wine Bar or trivia nights at The Garden.

When it’s time to dine, the city shines with more than 200 restaurants ranging from impressive ethnic offerings to localized fare. O’Leary suggested a “dine-around” for groups to tantalize their tastebuds at a variety of dining spots. And for travelers who want to dive into history as well as delicious food and drink, there’s no better option than Gadsby’s Tavern. The elegant setting is famed as a former dining choice of the first U.S. president, reflected in the menu item George Washington’s Favorite — a roasted half duck with corn pudding and scalloped potatoes. 

visitalexandria.com

Richmond

Virginia’s capital city and its surrounding environs provide travelers with the perfect blend of urban lures and small-town vibes.

“We’re really at the crossroads of American heritage, with a range of early America history combined with a hip, modern feel,”  said Toni Bastian, director of accessibility and tourism sales for Richmond Region Tourism.

The area is within a half-day’s drive of most of the U.S. population, and it has an eclectic feel with plenty of diversity, she said. That includes Carytown, one of Richmond’s favorite districts. The easily strollable nine-block neighborhood blends boutiques and historic storefronts with modern, indie retail and plenty of dining. Bastian described it as Richmond’s “mile of style,” adding it’s a perfect place for groups to explore no matter what they’re looking for.

For more of a cultural experience, groups can explore Jackson Ward, known as “the Harlem of the South” and as home to the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia. Designated as a National Historic Landmark District, the neighborhood boasts countless restored 19th-century rowhouses and other structures, ample public art, and the Hippodrome Theater, famous for showcasing legends like Cab Calloway and Ella Fitzgerald.

The Richmond area is also home to different lures as well, Bastian said, including agricultural tours, a world-class zoo and even NASCAR action at the Richmond Raceway. For something completely different, groups can go white water rafting on the James River right through the city’s downtown, a unique experience few urban settings can offer.

visitrichmondva.com