Tag: Virginia

In 1766—a decade before America’s founding—Captain Thomas Bullitt built the Homestead, an 18-room Shenandoah Valley retreat where visitors could “take the waters.” Holding the title of America’s oldest resort, this Hot Springs, Virginia, grande dame hotel has been in operation for more than 250 years.

Amy Walter, publisher and editor-in-chief of the Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, has lived in Arlington’s Clarendon neighborhood for 30 years—“which is kind of crazy!” she says. Though her work often sends her to Capitol Hill, her days off are usually spent away from politics. Here’s how she likes to fill the hours.

The 70-room Virginia property opened its newest restaurant this spring and recently completed a $3.6 million ecosystem restoration project.

Roanoke’s not quite on the national radar yet, which means it’s easier to snag dinner reservations and find a place to stay—at least for now. Here’s our guide to making the most of a weekend before the word gets out.

There are a few things you can always count on if you travel along the Southern coast. Pillowy mounds of soft, fine sand. Warm, sunny days punctuated by kaleidoscopic sunsets. Tents and umbrellas bearing the mascots of college football teams. Local shrimp and oysters fried to greasy perfection. These eight classic destinations tick all those boxes and more.

An important gathering place for more than 10,000 years, Great Falls Park is an 800-acre wonder along the banks of the Potomac River in McLean, Virginia. Today, this adventure-seeker’s destination is a National Park Service site with recreational offerings as varied as the terrain.

Today, Norfolk has reassumed its status as a maritime powerhouse as the site of the world’s largest naval base. With miles of sandy beaches, a thriving arts scene, a host of independent restaurants and breweries, and a mostly temperate climate, it’s a year-round destination.

As much as we love the South's quintessential clapboard churches and stately mansions, our appreciation of Southern architecture extends beyond the classics. We‘ve combed the region for noteworthy structures, from historical masterpieces like Thomas Jefferson‘s Palladian Monticello to modern marvels like the breezy, zero-energy McDonald‘s Florida flagship (yes, McDonald’s).

You might expect nothing more than a cute street with a few “olde shoppes” from a neighborhood named “Old Town,” but this nationally designated historic district is the real deal, founded in 1749 and covering nearly 100 square blocks. Cobblestone roads are lined with charming multicolored row houses; by night, these homes are aglow with flickering lanterns reminiscent of Colonial times.

A short list of the best new places to stay, including glamorous yurts, polished inns, and the largest treehouse resort in the world.