Virginia is the state where many important events affecting the rest of the nation have occurred. It is the site where the nation began with the first permanent settlement at Jamestown in 1607. It was the also the state that introduced slavery to the United States and the site of the treaty signings that ended the American Revolution and the Civil War. Since eight of the country's presidents were born in Virginia, it has the nickname as the "Mother of Presidents".
Virginia, with a population of 7.5 million people, is home to some of the best tourist attractions in the country. It stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to both the Allegheny and Blur Ridge Mountains affording some of the most breathtaking scenery you will ever see. Visit the gave of John F. Kennedy at Arlington Cemetery and the home of George Washington when you visit Mount Vernon. With more than 250 Civil War sites in the state, you can easily see that history is alive and well preserved.
The awesome beauty of the Shenandoah Valley is just a prelude of what is to come. With the many caverns to explore and the gently rolling hills, you are truly in horse country. Visit the many farms where horses are bred for racing or take a horseback ride to see the sights off the beaten track. The world's largest naval base is stationed at Norfolk and with more than 40 wineries in the state, you won't have much difficulty taking part in a wine-tasting tour.
Take a walking tour of Richmond and see the numerous historic homes and mansions. The numerous museums will give you all the information you need about the history of the city and the state. Winchester, in the Shenandoah Valley, is famous for its apple orchards and each year it plays host to the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival.
There are many country roads and trails in the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains as well as waterfalls and national parks. This is the area that Daniel Boone crossed the mountains to find a new home in the west. Visit the oldest part of the country in Jamestown and explore the archaeological sites. Numerous home still survive from the early 1700's allowing you to take a fascinating walk back through the pages of history.