With the dawn of a new year, we are feeling rather proud to call Virginia our home. Living in this state for any amount of time, you’ve probably entertained the thought that Virginia may just be the coolest state in America. If you ask us, you’re right. So as we reflect on another year, here are the 10 ways ours has quietly become the coolest state in America:
- It’s positively radiant with natural beauty.
Pixabay In a land of green rolling hills, Blue Ridge Mountains, endless coastlines and breathtaking farmland, no one would believe you if you said you were starved for scenery here. Perhaps most impressive is that from any point in Virginia, a two hour car ride will land you in a completely different landscape.
- Each city has its own unique personality…
Tess Dixon/flickr The friendly feud between Northern Virginia (NoVA) and the rest of the state is indicative that each city really does have its unique personality. Whether you’re looking for traditional and charming, artistic and edgy, or a little bit of laid-back, there’s a town in Virginia that’s tailor-made for you.
3…and so do the towns.
Doug Kerr/flickr If you’re wondering where Virginia really gets its character and coolness, look no further than our small towns. From the top of the Shenandoah Valley to the Tennessee border, each town has plenty to offer. There’s really no better way to get to know our state than by taking tour of these lovely and historic towns.
- The opportunity to explore history.
Via Tsuji/flickr Virginia is nothing if not a living textbook of history. The state’s extensive history is nearly impossible to miss. Venture to historic Jamestown and you can interact with settlements and live demonstrations that offer unique insight into the past. And in Williamsburg, you can catch a glimpse of authentic colonial life.
- The food…
Citizen Burger Bar/Facebook The food alone is reason enough to pick up and move to Virginia. The farm-to-table movement is something we’ve just about perfected. With hundreds of food festivals and countless restaurants emerging everyday, Virginia’s food scene could compete with the best of ‘em.
- …and the seafood.
Shelby L. Bell/flickr At risk of sounding redundant, the seafood is another factor in Virginia’s inherent coolness. Thanks to the proximity of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic, we have our pick of fresh crabs, fish, oysters and more. Even when served on a paper plate, this seafood is some of the very finest in the country.
- The opportunity for outdoor adventures.
Virginia State Parks/flickr Anyone that complains that there’s not enough to do in Virginia has clearly not tried their hand in the great outdoors. From challenging hikes to epic whitewater rafting and zip-line courses, there’s no shortage of adrenaline pumping adventures. And those interested in milder activities such as scenic strolls and admiring waterfalls will be equally enchanted.
- Even the ghosts like to hang around here.
CJ Oliver/flickr What could be cooler than ghosts? With our endless supply of historic buildings comes a whole population of ghosts and spirits. Whether or not you choose to believe in the paranormal, there’s no denying the haunted nature of some of these spooky places.
- We know how to seize the day.
williacw/flickr If you’ve ever witnessed a Virginia Beach sunrise, you know exactly how it feels to start the day off right. The beauty of each corner of the state reminds us to step back and appreciate a life filled with friends and family.
- We’re a state full of lovely people.
Ken Lund/flickr We’re a state full of lovely people. No so-called “cool” state would be worth its salt without friendly, wonderful people who call it home. That’s why Virginians are just about the kindest and most polite bunch you’ll meet. And we really love our state. Virginia is for lovers, after all!
Why do you think Virginia is among the coolest states in the U.S.? Be sure to share with us! For related content, be sure to read The 10 Reasons Virginia Is The Best State In America To Grow Up In.
Pixabay
In a land of green rolling hills, Blue Ridge Mountains, endless coastlines and breathtaking farmland, no one would believe you if you said you were starved for scenery here. Perhaps most impressive is that from any point in Virginia, a two hour car ride will land you in a completely different landscape.
Tess Dixon/flickr
The friendly feud between Northern Virginia (NoVA) and the rest of the state is indicative that each city really does have its unique personality. Whether you’re looking for traditional and charming, artistic and edgy, or a little bit of laid-back, there’s a town in Virginia that’s tailor-made for you.
Doug Kerr/flickr
If you’re wondering where Virginia really gets its character and coolness, look no further than our small towns. From the top of the Shenandoah Valley to the Tennessee border, each town has plenty to offer. There’s really no better way to get to know our state than by taking tour of these lovely and historic towns.
Via Tsuji/flickr
Virginia is nothing if not a living textbook of history. The state’s extensive history is nearly impossible to miss. Venture to historic Jamestown and you can interact with settlements and live demonstrations that offer unique insight into the past. And in Williamsburg, you can catch a glimpse of authentic colonial life.
Citizen Burger Bar/Facebook
The food alone is reason enough to pick up and move to Virginia. The farm-to-table movement is something we’ve just about perfected. With hundreds of food festivals and countless restaurants emerging everyday, Virginia’s food scene could compete with the best of ‘em.
Shelby L. Bell/flickr
At risk of sounding redundant, the seafood is another factor in Virginia’s inherent coolness. Thanks to the proximity of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic, we have our pick of fresh crabs, fish, oysters and more. Even when served on a paper plate, this seafood is some of the very finest in the country.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Anyone that complains that there’s not enough to do in Virginia has clearly not tried their hand in the great outdoors. From challenging hikes to epic whitewater rafting and zip-line courses, there’s no shortage of adrenaline pumping adventures. And those interested in milder activities such as scenic strolls and admiring waterfalls will be equally enchanted.
CJ Oliver/flickr
What could be cooler than ghosts? With our endless supply of historic buildings comes a whole population of ghosts and spirits. Whether or not you choose to believe in the paranormal, there’s no denying the haunted nature of some of these spooky places.
williacw/flickr
If you’ve ever witnessed a Virginia Beach sunrise, you know exactly how it feels to start the day off right. The beauty of each corner of the state reminds us to step back and appreciate a life filled with friends and family.
Ken Lund/flickr
We’re a state full of lovely people. No so-called “cool” state would be worth its salt without friendly, wonderful people who call it home. That’s why Virginians are just about the kindest and most polite bunch you’ll meet. And we really love our state. Virginia is for lovers, after all!
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