In the midst of the holiday season, we are feeling especially grateful to call Virginia home. Whether you’ve visited the Old Dominion for a few months or have lived here your whole life, there’s a chance you feel a strong pull to this gorgeous corner of America. And if you grew up in Virginia, you certainly have a whole lifetime full of memories to dwell on. From gorgeous scenery to historical attractions, here are just a few undeniable reasons why Virginia is the very best place to grow up:
- Last-minute trips to the beach.
Jeff Self/flickr No matter where you may live in Virginia, you don’t have to travel TOO far to reach the coast. Growing up in Virginia means plenty of trips to the beach, running in the sand, and playing in the waves.
- The best field trips on Earth.
Matthew and Heather/flickr While going on field trips is part of nearly everyone’s upbringing, no one can boast memorable field trips quite like Virginians. Between Mount Vernon, Monticello, Jamestown, and Williamsburg, there are countless opportunities to interact with our state’s impressive history.
- Hiking trails galore.
Caobhin/flickr Hiking in Virginia is an activity that appeals to outdoor lovers of all ages. If you grew up in Virginia, chances are you have hiked at least a few miles of the iconic Appalachian Trail.
- Experiencing four gorgeous seasons.
Matthew Paulson/flickr There’s nothing like fall in Virginia, spring in Virginia, summer in Virginia and even winter in Virginia. Each season brings about its unique beauty and appeal.
- Crab picking parties.
Alan Levine/flickr Whether it’s a spontaneous trip to the nearest crab shack or a planned event, there’s nothing like a crab picking party to bring a group of Virginians together.
- You can understand directions given solely in terms of landmarks.
Sonja/flickr “Drive past the red barn and continue on for a quarter of a mile before going over the train tracks…” is a common way you might find your way from here to there.
- Friendships last through generations.
Don LaVange/flickr If you grew up in Virginia, you most likely are friends with the children of your parents’ friends, and so the cycle continues for generations and generations.
- The Nation’s Capital is just a drive away.
Daniel Mennerich/flickr Depending on how willing you are to brave the traffic of I-95, traveling to Washington D.C. is a relatively easy trip.
- You’ve enjoyed a lifetime’s worth of live music.
Mobilus In Mobili/flickr Here in Virginia, you never have to travel too far to enjoy an incredible live music performance. Whether it’s a concert in a historic venue, an impromptu jam, or an entire weekend of music, there are so many ways to get into the groove here.
- You’ve had the privilege of growing up in the most beautiful state in the U.S.
Tony Brooks/flickr Perhaps we’re just slightly biased, but there’s honestly no natural beauty that rivals that of Virginia’s. We’re grateful to have grown up here!
Now it’s time for you to speak up! What are your favorite memories from having grown up in Virginia? Be sure to share with us. For related content, be sure to read about the 9 Undying Habits That No Virginian Can Ever Unlearn.
Jeff Self/flickr
No matter where you may live in Virginia, you don’t have to travel TOO far to reach the coast. Growing up in Virginia means plenty of trips to the beach, running in the sand, and playing in the waves.
Matthew and Heather/flickr
While going on field trips is part of nearly everyone’s upbringing, no one can boast memorable field trips quite like Virginians. Between Mount Vernon, Monticello, Jamestown, and Williamsburg, there are countless opportunities to interact with our state’s impressive history.
Caobhin/flickr
Hiking in Virginia is an activity that appeals to outdoor lovers of all ages. If you grew up in Virginia, chances are you have hiked at least a few miles of the iconic Appalachian Trail.
Matthew Paulson/flickr
There’s nothing like fall in Virginia, spring in Virginia, summer in Virginia and even winter in Virginia. Each season brings about its unique beauty and appeal.
Alan Levine/flickr
Whether it’s a spontaneous trip to the nearest crab shack or a planned event, there’s nothing like a crab picking party to bring a group of Virginians together.
Sonja/flickr
“Drive past the red barn and continue on for a quarter of a mile before going over the train tracks…” is a common way you might find your way from here to there.
Don LaVange/flickr
If you grew up in Virginia, you most likely are friends with the children of your parents’ friends, and so the cycle continues for generations and generations.
Daniel Mennerich/flickr
Depending on how willing you are to brave the traffic of I-95, traveling to Washington D.C. is a relatively easy trip.
Mobilus In Mobili/flickr
Here in Virginia, you never have to travel too far to enjoy an incredible live music performance. Whether it’s a concert in a historic venue, an impromptu jam, or an entire weekend of music, there are so many ways to get into the groove here.
Tony Brooks/flickr
Perhaps we’re just slightly biased, but there’s honestly no natural beauty that rivals that of Virginia’s. We’re grateful to have grown up here!
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