Virginia families have an amazing opportunity this year to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America: the Virginia 250 Passport program.
The Virginia 250 Passport was created and coordinated by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC), Colonial Williamsburg, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation (JYF), and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. The program encourages individuals and families to explore 70 of Virginia’s museums and historic sites in Central Virginia, Northern Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, Southwestern Virginia and Tidewater throughout the year.
No matter where you are in Virginia, 2026 is the perfect year to head out and explore the country’s history. You never know what you’ll learn!
At a Glance
- The Virginia 250 Passport program celebrates the 250th birthday of the United States at historic sites and museums all around Virginia.
- You’ll find popular historic destinations in Central, Northern, and Tidewater Virginia.
- Visit the Shenandoah Valley and Southwest Virginia for Virginia museums and historic sites that are less well-known.
Virginia 250 Passport Locations to Explore by Region
While we have our top picks, there are so many historic destinations on the VA 250 Passport that are perfect for visiting throughout Virginia. Here’s the comprehensive list of VA 250 locations that are participating in the program.
Historic Virginia Destinations in Central Virginia
These history-laden spots are all within a short drive from Charlottesville, making them perfect for a history-themed family day trip.
- Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia
- Fredericksburg Area Museum
- George Washington’s Ferry Farm
- Hanover Museum of History & Culture
- Historic Kenmore
- Historic St. John’s Church
- James Madison’s Montpelier
- James Monroe Museum
- James Monroe’s Highland
- John Marshall House
- Louisa County Historical Society
- Lynchburg Museum & Visitor Center
- Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest
- Mary Washington House
- Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park
- Patrick Henry’s Red Hill
- Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown
- Rising Sun Tavern Museum
- Robert Russa Moton Museum
- The Valentine
- Wilton House Museum
- Virginia Museum of History & Culture
- Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
Historic Virginia Destinations in Northern Virginia
Taking a family trip toward the DC area? These historic Northern Virginia locations have something for everyone.
- Alexandria Black History Museum
- Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum
- Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center
- Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail
- George Mason’s Gunston Hall
- Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum
- Manassas Museum
- National Museum of the Marine Corps
- National Museum of the United States Army
- Spotsylvania County Museum
- Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House
- George Washington’s Mount Vernon
- Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
- Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Some Virginia 250 Passport locations can be found around the state, including the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience and the tribal grounds of the Sovereign Nations and Indian Tribes of Virginia.
Historic Virginia Destinations in the Shenandoah Valley
A scenic drive into the Shenandoah Valley is perfect for a day (or weekend!) full of historic exploration.
- Belle Grove Plantation
- Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
- Rockbridge Historical Society Museum
- Rocktown History
- Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia
Historic Virginia Destinations in Southwestern Virginia
For an overnight trip from Charlottesville, make these historic spots in Southwest Virginia part of your VA 250 Passport itinerary.
- Avoca Museum and Historical Society
- Birthplace of Country Music Museum
- Blue Ridge Institute & Museum
- Botetourt County Historical Society, Inc
- Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History
- Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum
- Historic Smithfield
- Historical Society of Western Virginia
- Montgomery Museum of Art and History
- Salem Museum
Historic Virginia Destinations in Tidewater Virginia
If you’re planning a trip to one of Virginia’s beaches, why not add in some history? These Tidewater historical sites are great destinations for the whole family.
- Bacon’s Castle
- Colonial National Historical Park
- Deltaville Maritime Museum
- Eastern Shore Barrier Island Center
- Fort Monroe
- Gloucester Museum of History
- Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum
- Hampton History Museum
- Historic Christ Church & Museum
- Mariners’ Museum and Park
- Menokin
- Military Aviation Museum
- Shore History
- Stratford Hall
- Colonial Williamsburg
- American Revolution Museum
- Jamestown Settlement
Plan Your Family’s Virginia 250 Passport Adventure
With so many places to explore, from Richmond to the Shenandoah Valley to Williamsburg and beyond, the Virginia 250 Passport is the perfect way to celebrate America’s anniversary in a hands-on, kid-friendly, Virginia-focused way.
For more information, visit the Virginia 250 Passport site.
Looking for more family-friendly day trips? Virginia has plenty to choose from, no matter what your interests are, including science museums, transportation, dinosaurs, and of course, history!
Sign up for our free CharlottesvilleFamily e-Mag so you’ll receive weekly or monthly (you choose!) family news and events right in your inbox. Plus, meet the amazing local businesses and partners who help families thrive in our community.
JENNIFER WALDERA is an award-winning freelance writer published in numerous print and digital publications. When she’s not crafting creative content, Jennifer can be found exploring new spots, indulging in some quality time with a new novel or magazine, or streaming shows about food, drinks, and travel.