Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

This East Coast Tavern That Witnessed The US' Birth Is One You Can Still Visit Today

staff@islands.com (Jenna Busch) — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 20:45:00 +0000

There are storied establishments, and then there are places like this charming tavern that hosted America's Founding Fathers on a regular basis.

Hidden In Charlottesville Is A Virginia Mountain Overlook With Stunning Blue Ridge Views

staff@islands.com (Elliot Schorr) — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 09:15:00 +0000

For stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and downtown Charlottesville, visit an overlook with wandering trails and quaint attractions.

Forget Florida, Retire To This Charming East Coast State With Beautiful Beaches And Untaxed Social Security

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Florida is a longtime favorite for retirees due to its beautiful beaches and its tax advantages. But there are other East Coast states that are arguably better.

America's 'Most Endangered' River Is An East Coast Stunner With Trails, Kayaking, And Waterfront Dining

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Sun, 31 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000

There's still time to save this beautiful river, which is good news, because it's a great spot to enjoy nature both actively and while dining al fresco.

Virginia's Small City Is A Senior-Friendly Hot Spot With Antique Shopping And Walkable Charm

staff@islands.com (Jeff Martinez) — Sat, 23 May 2026 02:15:00 +0000

Retirees will love visiting this historic Virginia town, tucked in the Shenandoah Valley, with both Revolutionary and World War I sites to explore.

Virginia's Charming Blue Ridge Town Is A Serene Escape For Cozy Wineries And Unmatched Outdoor Adventure

staff@islands.com (Melanie Johnson) — Thu, 21 May 2026 01:45:00 +0000

A quiet, charming town by the Blue Ridge Mountains provides more than enough opportunities to hike, fish, paddle, boat, sightsee -- and enjoy fine wine.

The Oldest Public Japanese Garden On The East Coast Is Hidden In One Of Richmond Virginia's Prettiest Parks

staff@islands.com (Olivia Typaldos) — Mon, 18 May 2026 00:45:00 +0000

The garden has been restored to capitalize on its uniqueness, with added spaces for contemplation, winding paths around beautiful koi ponds and cascades.

Virginia's Walkable Richmond District Is A Charming, Vibrant Getaway Full Of Eclectic Shops And Local Restaurants

staff@islands.com (Elliot Schorr) — Mon, 11 May 2026 14:25:00 +0000

One of Richmond's most popular districts offers walkable streets lined with local shops, neighborhood bars, historic theaters, and diverse dining.

This Amtrak Train Route Is Shutting Down In 2026, Leaving Washington DC Travelers With Fewer Options

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Mon, 04 May 2026 21:25:00 +0000

If you plan to take the train into Washington, D.C., be aware that one route is undergoing some changes in 2026 to make room for future improvements.

Between Richmond And Newport News Is Virginia's Underrated State Forest For Hiking And Birdwatching

staff@islands.com (Elliot Schorr) — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:25:00 +0000

If you want to go for a short, quiet, scenic walk in the woods of Virginia, head to this state forest where you are sure to see a variety of birds.

Virginia's Historic 1920s Theatre Is A Nostalgic Richmond Gem Selling Affordable Movie Tickets

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Just outside of Downtown Richmond, there's an old school movie theater with an authentic organ that'll take you back in time at a reasonable price.

Virginia's Underrated State Park Is A Lovely Escape With Trails, Camping, And Scenic Views

staff@islands.com (Elliot Schorr) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 12:25:00 +0000

This Virginia state park - just an hour's drive from D.C. - offers backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and stargazing among epic pastoral vistas.

Between Richmond And Greensboro Is A Peaceful Lake State Park For Fishing And Camping

staff@islands.com (Sam Scott) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 13:25:00 +0000

Near Virginia's southern border, this lush state park features historic garden remains, wooded hiking routes, family splash areas, and waterfront camping.

Virginia's Forested Park Only Locals Know About

staff@islands.com (Jenna Busch) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

For a truly hidden gem of nature within Virginia's capital of Richmond, head to this park filled with leafy scenery and hiking trails.

Between Greensboro And The Virginia Border Is North Carolina's Underrated State Park For Fishing And Paddling

staff@islands.com (Elliot Schorr) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:45:00 +0000

When you think of North Carolina's state parks, the certain ones might come to mind first. However, this hidden gem offers both fishing and paddling.

Virginia's Once-Thriving Quarry Integral To Building The White House Is Now A Historic Nature-Filled Park

staff@islands.com (Olivia Typaldos) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 13:25:00 +0000

Take a short hike around this park to see evidence of quarry workers' tool marks, wildlife, and lovely vistas of the peaceful creek and surrounding area.

Between DC And Richmond Is Virginia's Largest Family-Friendly Water Park Opening In The Fall Of 2026

staff@islands.com (Tess Kazenoff) — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 11:45:00 +0000

A new, mega-sized water park is coming to Virginia in November 2026 and will include both indoor and outdoor attractions fit for the whole family.

Virginia's Once-Thriving Victorian Mansion Is Now An Abandoned Piece Of History Hidden In A Golf Course

staff@islands.com (Leslie Veliz) — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 20:45:00 +0000

Most towns have a golf course or two, but few come with abandoned houses. This one historic (and abandoned) mansion is hidden on a golf course in Virginia.

5 Abandoned Museums That Were Once-Thriving Gems

staff@islands.com (Jenna Busch) — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Roam through the skeleton structures of these once-thriving museums to experience everything from heartbreak and nostalgia to thrills and childlike wonder.

Between Washington, DC And Richmond Is A Scenic Virginia State Park With Waterside Camping And River Views

staff@islands.com (Elliot Schorr) — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:45:00 +0000

If you're in Washington, D.C., and feel like you need to escape to nature, this state park in Virginia should do the trick. You can even camp by the water.