The Official Virginia State Facts + Travel Tips

We have family that lives down in Virginia Beach and the surrounding area, so we've had the opportunity to visit the great state of Virginia, several times. One of the things I love about the state is that you can drive through rolling mountains and the countryside and within a few hours you can hit the Atlantic Coast.

Virginia was the 10th state to join the union on June 25th, 1788 and was one of the original 13 colonies. It's the home to some of our most famous presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and Woodrow Wilson, a total of 8 United States presidents in all!

Most Populated City: Virginia Beach
Capital: Richmond
Nickname: Old Dominion and Mother of Presidents
Tree: American Dogwood
Flower: American Dogwood
Insect: Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly
Fish: Brook Trout
Bird: Cardinal
Dog: American Foxhound
Bat: Big-Eared Bat
Shell: Oyster
Beverage: Milk
Main Industries: Agriculture, Manufacturing and Tourism
Bordering States: Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina.
Counties: 95 with Fairfax County being the most populous.

Virginia has 44 State Parks, 2 National Forests and 16 State Forests. You can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, like hiking, biking, camping, boating, hunting, fishing, etc.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is the world's largest tunnel and bridge complex comprising of 18 miles in length with two bridges and two tunnels. We've traveled across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel four times so far, and I have to admit...it's a beautiful drive!

You'll find the United States Navy's Atlantic Fleet stationed in Virginia and the state is home to Arlington National Cemetery.

The Pentagon, located in Arlington is the world's largest office building. One quarter of Virginians are employed by the United States government, since it's in close proximity to Washington D.C. The Pentagon was attacked in the terrorist attacks on 9-11 (September 11th).

We love visiting the great state of Virginia and go down there as often as we can to visit family. When we're there, we try to visit some of the local tourist "hot spots" and scenes. It's a beautiful scenic drive from south central Pennsylvania down to Virginia. A great road trip for the entire family to enjoy.