On this page we describe a few locations within a 1-to-3 hour drive that you can visit if you want to extend your time in Virginia. We have beaches, theme parks, and historic sites in abundance!
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Beaches
Virginia Beach (30 minutes)
If you crave sand between your toes or surfing in the Atlantic Ocean, the Virginia Beach oceanfront is less than 20 miles away. Public parking is available if you want a shorter getaway.
Outer Banks (1.5 hours)
The Outer Banks of North Carolina have tons of ocean side towns and make a great escape if you have a few extra days during your trip. Be sure
Theme Parks
Busch Gardens (1 hour)
Consistently named one of the best theme parks in the US (and most beautiful in the world), Busch Gardens Williamsburg boasts 8 roller coasters and many shows themed around various European countries.
Kings Dominion (2.5 hours)
Located in Doswell, VA, Kings Dominion theme park hosts 12 roller coasters. Check out their Halloween Haunt for spooky scares this October.
Historic Sites
As one of the original 13 colonies, Virginia has lots of history to offer. Below are just a few of the most popular landmarks. If you’re an avid historian, check out this full list of historic sites.
Colonial Williamsburg & Jamestown (1 hour)
Looking for a little history while in Virginia? Then head back to the 1700’s and walk, dine, and shop along the cobblestone streets of Colonial Williamsburg and the grounds of the College of William and Mary (the second oldest college in the United States). Be sure to talk with the locals (wearing 18th century attire). Or check out historic Jamestown, the site of the first English settlement in the Americas.
Monticello (3 hours)
If you’re making a trip to Charlottesville, VA, be sure to visit Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s plantation home, as well as the University of Virginia which Jefferson founded.
Universities
If you just can’t get enough of academia, you can visit the hallowed halls of many colleges and universities in the area. Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, Regent University, Hampton University, and Christopher Newport University are all within 30 minutes of the conference. Other intellectual hubs within a few hours include The College of William and Mary, Virginia Commonwealth University, and the University of Virginia.