Good Places to Take a Teen in Virginia

Because of Virginia's role in early American history, it is the home of many historical landmarks and museums. Virginia's location along the Atlantic coast also brings with it breathtaking beaches in addition to big city amenities, such as amusement parks and water slides. With this variety of activities from which to choose, the opportunities to educate and entertain your teenager are endless.

  1. Amusement Parks

    • Busch Gardens in Williamsburg has rides of all sorts. If your teen is a thrill-seeker, he will enjoy the Loch Ness Monster roller coaster or the Escape from Pompeii water ride with its sleeping volcano. If your teen is an animal-lover, take him on one of the "up-close" tours to learn about animals, birds of prey and traditional Scottish farm animals. At King's Dominion in Doswell, your teen can beat the heat at WaterWorks, a premiere water park with water slides, rivers, waves you can surf on and a 650,000 gallon wave pool. Elsewhere in the park, your teen can enjoy thrilling rides and live entertainment.

    Historical Sites

    • Virginia is home to a plethora of historical sites. Take your teen to the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington -- the most visited tourist site in the Washington D.C. area, according to its official website. There, your teen can pay tribute to the nation's fallen while taking in the impressive landscape. Visit Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's majestic home and gardens, which took 40 years to complete. Walk the grounds of George Washington's estate, Mount Vernon, and participate in one of the many daily tours.

    Beach Fun

    • There is no shortage of activities for your teen to enjoy on the scenic shores of Virginia Beach. This resort city has 28 miles of well-maintained beaches, along with a boardwalk area, outdoor recreational activities and family-friendly events. Along Chesapeake Bay is Buckroe Beach, an 8-acre sandy beach with picnic shelters and grills. Attend a Sunday night "Groovin' by the Bay" concert, play a game of sand volleyball or rent a boat with your teen and enjoy the fresh ocean air.

    Museums

    • At the living-history museum of Colonial Williamsburg, your teen can explore and interact with the residents of this Revolutionary City as he learns early American history through exhibits, discussion with the characters and intriguing lectures. The Chrysler Museum of Art boasts a world-class art collection, touring exhibits, memorial gardens and two historic Norfolk homes. Take a tour with your teen through the museum's collections or attend one of the many events hosted by the museum.

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