Tag: Virginia

This year marks the 101st Chincoteague Pony Crossing, an annual event occurring on the last Wednesday in July, when Saltwater Cowboys—local volunteer firefighters—saddle up to escort the wild ponies and their foals from Assateague Island, Virginia. They swim the channel to Chincoteague Island for a pony auction the following day.

George Washington spent his life in Virginia. Though military campaigns would take him beyond its borders for more than a combined decade—first as part of the French and Indian War and later during the American Revolution— most of his 67 years saw him surveying, defending, and developing the land of his birth. It’s altogether fitting during this year celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence, that we take to the road across Northern Virginia and follow in the footsteps of the Father of Our Country.

Lexington and Concord, Boston and Philadelphia, the Delaware River and Valley Forge. When we reflect on the birth of the nation, these are the places that naturally come to mind. But as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and America’s beginning, we want to give the South its due. Travelers will find America’s Revolutionary history preserved in four cities that played crucial roles in the early development of our nation: Williamsburg, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; Salem, North Carolina; and New Orleans, Louisiana.

Cradled in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton has built much of its modern appeal on a careful stewardship of its past. Longstanding commitments to adaptive reuse programs have preserved the charm of downtown’s streetscapes. Today, travelers will encounter more than 35 architectural styles over a few walkable blocks in this city that traces its history to 1747.

A deep dive into the ever-evolving state capital, now defined by its creative spirit, cutting-edge cuisine, and richly textured past.

Tour a 301-acre living history museum, meet expert craftspeople, savor artisanal cheeses, and immerse yourself in authentic colonial life.

A decade ago, downtown Lynchburg was on the ropes. Empty storefronts lined the historic streets, and its 19th-century infrastructure had started to crumble. But after millions in investment, the city has a new vibe and swagger. Retail stores fill former warehouses, a restored grand hotel welcomes guests, and a network of riverside trails draws hikers, bikers, and picnickers.

The best-selling author recounts a childhood visit to the quiet coastal retreat, where wild ponies and local seafood left a lasting mark.

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.