Best of Virginia Winners

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General

Founded in 1984, ACAC offers comprehensive health services for the whole family. After working out solo in the fitness center or sweating in a group class, members can take advantage of the club’s spa services, including body wraps and polishes, facials, massages and even alternative healing treatments like Reiki and Craniosacral energy therapies.

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-984-3800

Link:

ACAC.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-285-4653

Link:

GoldsGymRVA.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-644-9622

Link:

YMCARichmond

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-977-6882

Link:

AlbemarleAngler.com

Scouting for trout on the Jackson River or fly-fishing for bass on the James can be tricky, which is why Angler’s Lane offers classes for aspiring fishermen. The company’s International Federation of Fly Fishers-certified instructors and experienced guides will help you learn the basics, or for the seasoned angler, direct you to fish-abundant waters.

Address:

Forest

Phone Number:

434-385-0200

Link:

AnglersLane.com

Address:

Fredericksburg

Phone Number:

540-372-8708

Link:

RiverRockOutfitter.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-592-3673

Link:

AltriaTheater.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-788-6466

Link:

AltriaTheater.com

An event’s every detail is accounted for at the Craddock Terry, a former shoe factory in Lynchburg’s re-energized and newly chic downtown district. Converted into a boutique hotel and event destination, kitschy shoe-themed décor remains as a salute to its past life, including a giant red shoe perched on its façade that welcomes guests.

Address:

Lynchburg

Phone Number:

434-455-1510

Link:

CraddockTerryHotel.com

Address:

Lynchburg

Phone Number:

434-325-2200

Link:

AmazementSquare.org

A visit to Maymont is like stepping into a fairy tale. Children and adults alike awaken imaginations with a stroll through the magnificent Gilded Age home, a visit to the goats and other barnyard animals at the Children’s Farm, or a carriage ride across the 100-acre estate—Maymont offers all the fun of Cinderella, sans the hassle of magic pumpkins.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-358-7166

Link:

Maymont.org

Address:

Phone Number:

434-325-2200

Link:

WintergreenResort.com

Address:

Lynchburg

Phone Number:

434-845-1888

Link:

AmazementSquare.org

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-864-1400

Link:

SMV.org

The VMFA has had a busy year. After expanding its collection with the new McGlothlin Collection of American Art and hosting special exhibition Rodin: Evolution of a Genius, the museum will continue breaking new ground this June with Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic, a retrospective of the New York artist known for his Old Masters-style portraits of contemporary African-American subjects.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-340-1405

Link:

VMFA.museum

Now in its 45th year of showcasing the work of artists and craftsmen from across the country, Arts in the Park celebrates creativity from weaving and woodwork to painting and sculpture. An event for both art connoisseurs and crafters, it appeals to even the most discerning tastes.

Address:

The Carillon at Byrd Park, Richmond

Phone Number:

Link:

RichmondArtsInThePark.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

Link:

RVAFirstFridays.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-643-1708

Link:

1708Gallery.org

Bass Pro Shop has an extensive stock for saltwater and freshwater fishing. The store possesses the Central region’s largest selection of salt- and freshwater rods, and nearly 5,000 square feet of fly-fishing gear alone in its White River Fly Shop. Just beginning to wade in? Bass Pro Shop offers fishing workshops to sharpen your skills, including 7-week fly-tying courses.

Address:

Ashland

Phone Number:

804-496-4700

Link:

BassPro.com

Address:

Ashland

Phone Number:

804-550-2188

Link:

GreenTopHuntFish.com

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-975-0210

Link:

Orvis.com

Address:

Ashland

Phone Number:

804-496-4700

Link:

BassPro.com

Address:

Colonial Heights

Phone Number:

804-526-8399

Link:

DancesSportingGoods.com

Since its beginning as a gas station and gun store in 1947, Green Top has grown to offer one of the largest selections of outdoor and hunting equipment in Virginia, including top brands like North Face. If you’re looking to pick up a bow sometime soon, Green Top’s Archery 101 class can get you on target.

Address:

Ashland

Phone Number:

804-550-2188

Link:

GreenTopHuntFish.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

Link:

BroadAppetit.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

Link:

CarytownRVA.org

Pronounce it correctly—YEE-row, not JIE-row—and maybe you’ll get an extra bit of delicious haloumi cheese on your gyro at one of Richmond’s favorite festivals. It’s all Greek with tours through Richmond’s Orthodox Christian Church and traditional folk dancing and music throughout the week, and of course, the food. Dine in or drive-thru.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-358-5996

Link:

GreekFestival.com

Explore Charlottesville and Orange while enjoying all the comforts of home. Whether you’re looking for history, adventure, or a romantic retreat, Chestnut Hill ensures that you’re well-informed about things to do in the area, and well-fed with dishes like Grand Marnier orange blossom French toast.

Address:

Orange

Phone Number:

540-661-0430

Link:

ChestnutHillBNB.com

Address:

Orange

Phone Number:

540-317-1206

Link:

InnAtWillowGrove.com

Address:

Reva

Phone Number:

540-509-1440

Link:

WaldenHall.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-228-5814

Link:

CHFRichmond.org

You might have heard that the Fur Ball has gone to the dogs, but that’s only because it’s one of the few black-tie events where guests include both people and pets. Featuring the Parade of Pets down the Jefferson Hotel’s grand staircase, the event raises money for the SPCA’s Cinderella Fund, which cares for orphaned, sick and injured animals.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-521-1300

Link:

RichmondSPCA.org

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-285-9495

Link:

SportsBackers.org

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-864-0460

Link:

CobbCineBistro.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-354-6008

Link:

BowTieCinemas.com

Just visiting the historic Byrd Theatre is an event, given that the movie palace has remained almost unchanged since opening in 1928. But the Byrd doesn’t rest on its laurels. The theater frequently hosts events like filmmaker John Waters’ one-man show, and updated screenings of old classics, even live scoring of silent films.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-353-9911

Link:

ByrdTheatre.com

Address:

Mechanicsville

Phone Number:

804-569-8716

Link:

CovenantWoods.com

Address:

Lynchburg

Phone Number:

434-582-1500

Link:

SummitLynchburg.com

Since 1975, Westminster Canterbury has provided affordable care through its fellowship program, awarding $3.9 million in assistance last year. The community unlocks residents’ creativity through classes and stimulates their minds through regular artistic performances and exhibitions, such as those from the Richmond Symphony and the Virginia Opera.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-264-6000

Link:

WCRichmond.org

Address:

Phone Number:

434-455-1501

Link:

LynchburgCraddockTerryHotel.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-340-6040

Link:

QuirkHotel.com

You can’t help but make an entrance worthy of Scarlett O’Hara when you descend the Jefferson’s grand staircase. The hotel’s Beaux-Arts style architecture, premier dining and storied history makes it a must-see for Richmonders and out-of-towners alike, and as it completes the last stages of its extensive guest room renovations this year, it’s a must-stay, too.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-788-8000

Link:

JeffersonHotel.com

Address:

Manakin-Sabot

Phone Number:

804-677-5691

Link:

DeepRunHorseShow.com

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-293-9501

Link:

FoxfieldRaces.com

It’s been said that in Orange, “you might miss Christmas, but you never miss the Montpelier Races.” Held at the lifelong home of former president James Madison, the event features seven horse races as well as other activities like Jack Russell terrier races, a ladies’ hat competition and stick horse races for kids.

Address:

Montpelier Station

Phone Number:

540-672-0027

Link:

MontpelierRaces.org

Address:

Phone Number:

434-325-2200

Link:

WintergreenResort.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-287-1335

Link:

TheCCV.org

The Federal Club’s 18-hole bent grass greens and bluegrass fairways make for a lengthy 7,023 yards of play. The Club will soon add a 25,000-square-foot clubhouse and pro shop to its grounds, including dining rooms and a ballroom, allowing members to unwind and shop or enjoy a meal after a day of play.

Address:

Glen Allen

Phone Number:

804-798-4996

Link:

TheFederalClub.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-521-2500

Link:

FeedMore.org

The Richmond SPCA is all about the care and well-being of animals, but it’s also interested in matching up new best friends. Happy and colorful, its facilities make for a fun day of meeting potential furry companions. The SPCA even hosts kids’ birthday parties that include—you guessed it—lots of time to play with the animals.

Address:

Richmon

Phone Number:

804-521-1300

Link:

RichmondSPCA.org

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-828-0450

Link:

Massey.VCU.edu

Address:

Orange

Phone Number:

540-672-1010

Link:

GrymesSchool.org

“No whining” is Passages Adventure Camp’s motto, but after a day of whitewater kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, rappelling and wilderness survival training, you’d be hard pressed to find an unhappy camper anyway. Kids spend their days exploring Belle Isle or mastering more advanced wilderness skills outside of Richmond at the overnight camp.

Address:

Midlothian

Phone Number:

804-897-8283

Link:

PassagesRVA.com

Address:

Mechanicsville

Phone Number:

804-730-0905

Link:

RTMAOnline.com

Set atop rolling hills overlooking the James River, Hollywood Cemetery is a Richmond (and national) treasure. Monuments like James Monroe’s Gothic Revival-style tomb, nicknamed “The Birdcage,” the 90-foot Monument to the Confederate Dead and the gravesites of Virginia notables make the cemetery a destination for a day of quiet reflection.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-648-8501

Link:

HollywoodCemetery.org

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-984-9800

Link:

Monticello.org

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-648-5015

Link:

HistoricStJohnsChurch.org

Address:

Glen Allen

Phone Number:

804-423-1779

Link:

InnsbrookAfterHours.com

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-245-4980

Link:

JeffersonTheater.com

Above all, the National aims to please a variety of tastes. Hosting shows as diverse as Greg Allman of the Allman Brothers to Slayer, the National’s vintage vibe, top of the line sound system, and seven full service bars provide the perfect setting for almost any performance.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-612-1900

Link:

TheNationalVa.com

RVA is truly wild at heart. The only urban setting to have class III and IV rapids, the city has a hidden wilderness of rivers, rocks and forests that comprise the James River Park System, offering activities for the adventurous hiker, climber or whitewater kayaker as well as for the leisure-seeking sunbather.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-646-8911

Link:

JamesRiverPark.org

Address:

Phone Number:

434-325-2200

Link:

WintergreenResort.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-920-8086

Link:

XTeamFitness.com

Address:

Keswick.com, 434-979-3440Third place: Boar’s Head Inn, Charlottesville, BoarsHeadInn.com, 434-296-2181

Phone Number:

Link:

Swing clubs and ski the slopes at Wintergreen, a four-season, 11,000-acre resort located in the temperate Blue Ridge Mountains. The resort also offers a month-long summer music festival, featuring lectures, seminars and full orchestra performances each weekend.

Address:

Phone Number:

434-325-2200

Link:

WintergreenResort.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-358-7166

Link:

Maymont.org

Monticello, the neoclassical home and 5,000-acre plantation belonging to our nation’s third president, welcomes more than 400,000 visitors every year. Explore Monticello through a behind-the-scenes tour of the Jefferson family quarters, or attend annual events like the Heritage Harvest Festival, celebrating Jefferson’s agricultural legacy.

Address:

Charlottesville

Phone Number:

434-984-9800

Link:

Monticello.org

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-340-1405

Link:

VMFA.museum

Orapax Hunting Preserve’s 700 acres of forest and marshlands are abundant with quail, duck and pheasant, making the preserve a top area destination for the seasoned hunter. Patrons are welcome to bring their own bird-dogs (areas to train your dog are available year-round). Or, for a small fee, dogs and professional handlers can be provided.

Address:

Goochland

Phone Number:

804-526-2261

Link:

Orapax.com

Address:

Phone Number:

804-367-1000

Link:

DGIF.Virginia.gov

Address:

Goochland

Phone Number:

804-467-9000

Link:

Rasawek.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-213-0000

Link:

ReDefineRVA.com

Break down your traditional expectations of a workout with a program that calls itself the “anti-gym.” X-Team Fitness consists of boot camp-style group workouts at rotating indoor and outdoor locations around Richmond. Designed to make the experience more than just a gym class, X-Team Fitness is a team working towards a goal of overall fitness.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-920-8086

Link:

XTeamFitness.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-358-1000

Link:

ZGHealth.com

Virginia’s state ballet anchors an exciting 2016-2017 season with its first ever performance of George Balanchine’s Slaughter on Tenth Avenue and excerpts from Marius Petipa’s La Bayadere. The ballet has introduced new initiatives like In Studio, which invites audiences into the company’s black box theater to enjoy an interactive rehearsal viewing.

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-344-0906

Link:

RichmondBallet.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-788-1212

Link:

RichmondSymphony.com

Address:

Richmond

Phone Number:

804-282-2620

Link:

VirginiaRep.org

Top 10 Fall Festivals in Virginia 2025

Alexandria – 23rd Annual Alexandria Art Festival Sept. 13–14: Stroll Old Town’s John Carlyle Square Park as it’s transformed into an outdoor art gallery for this fall festival. Admire the work from more than 200 juried artisans from around the globe. VisitAlexandria.com Virginia Beach – VIRGINIA BEACH NEPTUNE FESTIVAL Sept. 26–28: The 51st anniversary of […]

by Madeline Mayhood

A Couple’s Small-Town Makeover

After a successful career in investigative services in Washington, D.C., Terri Wesselman and her husband, Julien Patterson, decided to settle down in Irvington. Initially drawn to the area by the Tides Inn, the couple had been weekending in the Northern Neck since the late ’90s. “There was something about the area that was quiet but […]

by Stephanie Ganz

The Story Behind the Moonshine Explosion in Rocky Mount, Virginia

It was during the early days of the Great Depression, and Virginia’s statewide prohibition was still in effect, banning all sales of alcohol. Meanwhile, in Franklin County, the area was laying the foundation for its future title: the Moonshine Capital of the World. Nestled among the Appalachian and Blue Ridge mountains, the Turner Motor Co. […]

by Gabriela de Camargo Gonçalves

Best of Virginia Winners

General

Current Issue

Most Popular

Top 10 Fall Festivals in Virginia 2025

A Couple’s Small-Town Makeover

The Story Behind the Moonshine Explosion in Rocky Mount, Virginia

Best of Virginia Winners

General

Current Issue

Get our most popularweekly newsletter: VL Today

Most Popular

Top 10 Fall Festivals in Virginia 2025

A Couple’s Small-Town Makeover

The Story Behind the Moonshine Explosion in Rocky Mount, Virginia

Get our most popularweekly newsletter: VL Today

Get our most popular
weekly newsletter: VL Today

Get our most popular
weekly newsletter: VL Today