Try your hand at horseback riding on the beach, or for those who want to get more up close and personal with the water and the wildlife, kayaking with dolphins is sure to leave a lasting impression. Ride the gentle waves in sit-on-top ocean kayaks, while you take a guided tour and discover the fascinating and fun world of the bottlenose dolphins that call these waters home.
Explore the Vibe Creative District, located conveniently within the oceanfront area of Virginia Beach. This cultural arts enclave is a local hotspot where creative businesses have come together to share their passion and love of the arts with visitors and locals alike. After getting in touch with your creativity and artsy vibes, visit the Military Aviation Museum, home to one of the largest private collections of World War I and World War II era military aircraft in the world. Enjoy the heritage and machinery of these inspiring aircraft, many of which are airworthy and flown at the museum during flight demonstrations and at air shows throughout the year – they even offer rides to the public!
Get ready to dazzle your taste buds with some of the region’s impressive culinary offerings. Fine dining options abound in this city by the sea and seafood lovers are in for a treat, as the fresh catch found in Virginia Beach offers up an unparalleled epicurean experience. Dubbed the oyster capital of the East Coast, Virginia has eight distinct oyster regions. Try a few from each area and then pick your favorite. Some are salty, some are sweet, but they are all succulent and delicious – and they pair beautifully with a glass of Virginia wine!
Oyster Capital of the East Coast
You will find a plethora of lodging options on the beach and beyond, ranging from luxury hotels & resorts, to charming bed & breakfasts, and even camping & cabins, for a more rustic experience. For the ultimate in luxury accommodations, check out The Cavalier, located on the Virginia Beach oceanfront.
This newly-restored Marriott Autograph Collection property is one of Virginia’s most iconic properties and has welcomed ten United States Presidents over the years.
Begin your second day in Virginia by driving to nearby Norfolk and exploring the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, an official museum of the United States Navy, dedicated to the study of more than 240 years of naval history in the Hampton Roads region. Take a self-guided tour of the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy, which rests in Norfolk’s water.
Now it’s time to explore the new and revitalized Waterside District, an area buzzing with trendy restaurants and entertainment. Dining options are plentiful and you can even indulge your sweet tooth at Carolina Cupcakery, an establishment recently featured on the Food Network’s hit television series Cupcake Wars.
Spend your afternoon by enjoying a combination of the Norfolk area’s top attractions, including the Norfolk Botanical Garden (Virginia’s largest botanical garden), the Virginia Zoological Park, or the Chrysler Museum of Art. Space enthusiasts will love a trip to the Virginia Air & Space Center located in nearby Hampton, Virginia. Serving as the official visitor center of NASA Langley Research Center, the Virginia Air & Space Center features a variety of interactive STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) exhibits, more than 30 historic aircraft, a hands-on space gallery, and unique space flight artifacts.
Next up, get ready for a night of dining and fun in downtown Norfolk at one of the region’s popular restaurants, followed by a restful night at one of Norfolk’s many inviting hotels.
Discover the rolling hills of Central Virginia, and the quaint, historic city of Charlottesville. Offering a superb taste of Virginia’s history and charm, Charlottesville is home to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and the University of Virginia (both UNESCO World Heritage sites), more than 30 wineries, and a charming pedestrian avenue filled with restaurants and boutique shops.
Visit Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello to learn more about how the third President of the United States lived at his beloved mountaintop home. Explore the grounds, including Jefferson’s prized gardens, located adjacent to the home. If more history is what you crave, the home of President James Monroe (Highland) is located a short drive to the east, and the home of President James Madison (Montpelier) can be reached in approximately 30 minutes.
Enjoy lunch at the historic Michie Tavern, known for its scrumptious Southern fare – the fried chicken is a must! Then take a short drive to the top of Carter Mountain where you will find an orchard ripe with apples and peaches depending on the season, plus panoramic views of Charlottesville and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. If you look carefully, you will be able to see the prestigious University of Virginia, designed by Thomas Jefferson himself.
Next up is a visit to Charlottesville wine country. With more than 30 vineyards and wineries located along the Monticello Wine Trail, the landscape is teeming with grapevines, just as Jefferson had envisioned several hundred years before. In addition to wineries, you can also sample offerings from several craft breweries, artisanal cideries, and distilleries.
One of Charlottesville’s most popular attractions is the historic pedestrian Downtown Mall. This eight- block avenue paved with brick, runs through the heart of Charlottesville and serves as a culinary, shopping, and arts hub. You can shop at one of the locally-owned boutiques, then dine and grab a drink at one of the many unique, trendy, or upscale restaurants. Live music and performances also regularly take place at the historic Paramount Theater, The Jefferson Theater, the Southern Café & Music Hall, and the Sprint Pavilion, an outdoor amphitheater on the Downtown Mall.
Charlottesville’s Historic Pedestrian Downtown Mall
When it’s time to turn in, try the Boar’s Head Resort, The Clifton Inn, or for something quirky and fun, The Townsman, a 4-room boutique hotel located directly on the historic Downtown Mall.
Start day 4 with a breakfast from the legendary Bodo’s Bagels, an iconic Charlottesville establishment. This restaurant has gained national recognition over the years for the bagel bliss it consistently provides its loyal patrons.
Spend your morning strolling the grounds of the prestigious University of Virginia, which Thomas Jefferson founded and designed. Before departing Charlottesville, visit the room once occupied by the melancholic writer Edgar Allan Poe, when he was a student at the University of Virginia, and then look across the street, where several panels of the Berlin Wall are on display.
A short and scenic drive will take you up and over mountains and then finally back down into the Shenandoah Valley and the idyllic city of Staunton. Like Charlottesville, Staunton is a relatively small city, but it offers a wide array of activities and attractions. Start your afternoon in Stauton with a visit to the Frontier Culture Museum. This living-history museum is one of Staunton’s top attractions and tells the story of the people who migrated from the Old World to America and the lives that they created for themselves in the Shenandoah Valley.
Stop by the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum for another interesting dose of local Virginia history. Woodrow Wilson, the nation’s 28th President, was born in Staunton and served as the
leader of the country from 1913 to 1921. Adjacent to this museum is Wilson’s actual birthplace, which is available for tours.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Staunton’s popular restaurants before settling in for a comfortable night at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Staunton.
Depart Staunton for Skyline Drive, a scenic highway that twists and turns through the Shenandoah National Park. A drive on this renowned roadway will present you with Virginia’s breathtaking beauty, at a slow, relaxed pace, while driving at several thousand feet above sea level, surrounded by majestic mountains. There are also scenic overlooks, hiking options, or you can get lunch at Skyland Lodge.
Shenandoah Valley Sunset
As you drive north on this scenic route, make a detour to Luray Caverns, the largest caverns in the eastern United States. You will feel like you have descended into another world, with large stalactites and stalagmites protruding from every corner of these mammoth caves. This geological wonder is also home to the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the world’s largest musical instrument, which will serenade you with its uniquely unforgettable and haunting tones.
Luray Caverns
Drive from Luray Caverns, Virginia to Philadelphia – Approx. 4 hours’ drive and enjoy the scenic byways.
Explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art with private guide
Located at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the museum holds a world-renowned collection of more than 2,000 years of paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, and architectural settings from Europe, Asia, and the Americas, including the largest collection of Duchamp’s work outside of Europe. In early May 2021, the museum unveiled to the public the Core Project, the culmination of four years of construction that focused on the renewal of the museum’s infrastructure. Designed by world renowned architect, Frank Gehry, the scope of the Core Project comprised nearly 90,000 square feet of reimagined and newly created space within the main building of the museum. 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130.
Run (or walk) the Rocky Steps
The site of the famous running of the stairs by Rocky Balboa, played by Sylvester Stallone, in the “Rocky” film series. Walk or run up to the top step to enjoy the amazing view of Philadelphia as seen from this iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art entrance. Stand in Rocky’s “footprints” at the top and take a picture with the famous sculpture at the foot of the museum.
Lunch at Stir Restaurant
Located inside the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the intimate dining venue is the only Frank Gehry-designed restaurant in the Northeastern United States.
Drive from Philadelphia Museum of Art to Barnes Foundation (5 minutes’ drive – 0.8 miles)
Explore one of the world’s most impressive collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and Modern Art, celebrating its centennial in 2022. Between 1912 and 1951, Dr. Albert Barnes acquired works of art from some of the most daring artists of the time including Cezanne, Picasso, Matisse, and Van Gogh. The collection features more pieces by Renoir (181) than anywhere else in the world. 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19130.
Drive from Barnes Foundation to Neon Museum (15 minutes’ drive 3.2 miles)
The Neon Museum is a cultural and educational organization, with a mission to collect, preserve and create neon signage that is part of Philadelphia’s history and art. 1800 N American St., Philadelphia, PA 19122
Dinner at Elwood Restaurant
Elwood is a BYOB restaurant located in Fishtown. The restaurant combines a comfortable atmosphere with a PA Dutch country cuisine that explores Pennsylvania’s culinary history, cultures and foodways. Chef Adam Diltz centered the menu around his appreciation for country cuisine using native ingredients and relationships with local suppliers. 1007 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19125
Enjoy city’s nightlife at The Logan, Assembly Rooftop Lounge
Located nine stories high on top of The Logan Hotel with an unrivaled view of Philadelphia’s art and museum district. The menu features bubbly cocktails, a wealth of champagnes, and sparkling wines. The sophisticated atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind while savoring the finest drinks and views of the Logan Square Neighborhood. Outside.
Begin your day with a delicious brunch at Cheesesteaks at Geno’s
One of the most iconic restaurants in the city was founded by Joey Vento in 1966. Located in South Philadelphia, Geno’s specializes in cheesesteaks, a signature Philadelphia dish. Geno’s is open 24/7 serving freshly made cheesesteaks at all hours. 1219 S 9th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147
Mural Arts Tour – Mural Mile Walking Tour
Experience firsthand how art ignites change. Explore the world’s largest outdoor art gallery and get to know Philadelphia’s stunning mural collection on a guided tour. Weave through neighborhood streets on foot and get inspired by the incredible public art that makes Philadelphia the Mural Capital of the World. Professionally trained guides offer a behind-the-scenes look and share the in-depth stories about the people and communities that inspired and shaped each Mural Arts Philadelphia project. Visitors also learn about the mural-making processes and how the work of the organization has evolved over its nearly 40-year history.
Fishtown
This neighborhood, named for its history as an epicenter for the commercial shad fishing industry, offers an exception to Philadelphia’s urban grid system with its collection of narrow streets with modest row homes and independently owned businesses. Fishtown is filled with new bars, restaurants, studios, and galleries, indoor and out.
Dinner at Suraya
Suraya is a Middle Eastern restaurant that celebrates the flavors of the region and encourages their customers to explore the rich culinary traditions on offer. The 12,000 square feet restaurant is located in the Fishtown neighborhood of Philadelphia. Their menu features various Middle Eastern specialties, salads, and breads. On the beverage side they offer a variety of coffees, teas, cocktails, beers, and jallab. 1528 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19125
Option to stay and explore Fishtown or return to hotel
Breakfast at Reading Terminal Market
The historic Reading Terminal Market is home to 80 renowned merchants who offer the best of Philadelphia’s famous specialties. Made with the finest and freshest ingredients, visitors to the Terminal have access to an unparalleled variety of international and local cuisine, including Pennsylvania Dutch specialties; mozzarella cheese made on site at the Valley Shepherd Creamery; and winner of Travel Channel’s Adam Richman’s Best Sandwich in America, Tommy DiNic’s roast pork sandwich. After grabbing a bite to eat, visitors to the Terminal can take home a myriad of items to further their experience including fresh, local groceries; unique regionally themed souvenirs; and Philadelphia-based cookbooks. 51 N. 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Walking Tour of the Historic District – History in HD
Explore America’s most historic square mile and view iconic historical sites of Independence National Historical Park.
Lunch at Frieda
An open and unifying space, Frieda aims to connect people from different generations and backgrounds. The welcoming café offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch, as well as a variety of enriching workshops and events to invite guests to become a part of its community. Led by a Paris-trained chef, the multigenerational kitchen and baking team is made up of talented members from various Philadelphia neighborhoods.
Tour the Faith & Liberty Discovery Museum
The Faith & Liberty Center offers an interactive and immersive history experience. There visitors can explore the influence of faith on individuals in key historical and personal moments and how the relationship between faith and liberty guided the formation of the United States. 101 North Independence Mall East, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a short drive (5 minutes) from the Discover Museum
Bask in the reflections of Philadelphia’s living mosaic. Half indoor, half outdoor, fully out of the ordinary, this mesmerizing labyrinth is the largest work to date by mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar.
Drive to Chinatown, another short drive from the Magic Gardens (5 minutes)
Dinner at Sang Kee Peking Duck House
Family owned and operated since 1980, Sang Kee Peking Duck House has been serving their famous freshly made Pecking Ducks in Philadelphia’s Chinatown, one of the largest in the U.S. The first restaurant to bring this dish to Philadelphia, their also includes authentic Hong Kong dishes, soups, and wontons. 238 N 9th St., Philadelphia, PA 19107
Breakfast at Spread Bagelry
America’s first Montreal style wood oven bagels. They offer a delicious menu through breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. Spread Bagelry blends a modern sensibility with old world craft that welcomes and anchors the community they serve. 2401 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tour of Penn Museum
The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology is home to over a million artifacts and archaeological treasures from Africa, Asia, the Americas and the Mediterranean that date back to 3,000 years ago. 3260 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19104
Enjoy a scenic drive to Countryside of Philadelphia (40 minutes approx.) and enjoy the evening
Winterthur
Winterthur is one of the few surviving great American country estates. Owner Henry Francis du Pont was an avid antiques collector and horticulturalist: his love of American craftmanship led him to assemble one of the world’s most complete collections of antiques and Americana. Winterthur’s 60-acre naturalist garden is a wonder of breathtaking beauty.
Lunch and explore Longwood Gardens 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
Greater Philadelphia is known as “America’s Garden Capital” with over 30 horticultural assets are located within 30 miles. The crown jewel of them all is magnificent Longwood Gardens. Brandywine’s renowned Longwood Gardens combines the best of Italian, French, and English traditions to create one of the world’s most memorable gardens. Longwood encompasses 1,077 acres, offering 20 outdoor gardens and a breathtaking conservatory. It is home to north America’s most significant fountain collection. The highlight of this collection is the Main Fountain Garden which features 1,719 jets soaring as high as 175 feet.
Depart Longwood Gardens
Brandywine River Museum of Art 1 Hoffman’s Mill Rd, Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Brandywine River Museum of Art, an art treasure known internationally for its collections of works by the Wyeth family as well as a fine collection American illustration, still life and landscapes. The Museum showcases the work of three generations of the Wyeth family: N.C., Andrew, and Jamie. A tour of N.C. Wyeth’s Studio and home will be available.