According to forum posts, Virginia offers various public transportation options including VRE (Virginia Railway Express), Amtrak trains, and local buses like Omniride. VRE is mainly a commuter service with limited hours outside of peak times. Amtrak has stations across the state, such as in Manassas and Fredericksburg, but prices can be high for some routes, with a mentioned fare of $19 each way from Manassas to Washington, D.C.

Some travelers said that rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available for shorter distances or where public transit is not accessible. This can be particularly useful in areas not well-served by trains or buses.

For scenic or specialized routes, forum users have mentioned using the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry as a pleasant drive alternative, complementing trips to historical and coastal areas of Virginia. The Virginia Breeze bus service is also available, offering routes between major cities and towns, though not all desired connections are available, such as between Lynchburg and Farmville.

According to forum posts, Skyline Drive offers extensive scenic views with numerous overlooks along the route. Travelers particularly appreciate the sights during the foliage season, though the views remain impressive year-round due to the landscape's natural beauty.

Some travelers mentioned that Skyline Drive provides opportunities to observe wildlife, including potentially spotting bears. The lack of foliage in winter enhances visibility, allowing for greater sightlines to the surrounding nature.

Posts highlighted that nearby attractions such as Luray Caverns and various historical sites add to the appeal of visiting Skyline Drive. Recreational activities, including short walks and more extended hikes, are accessible from various points along the drive, catering to a range of physical abilities and interests.

According to forum posts, The Tides Inn in Irvington, Virginia, is highly recommended by travelers for its picturesque setting on the river and a variety of activities including golf, spa, and biking. It is described as an elegant resort, ideal for weddings and peaceful getaways.

Travelers have called out Alexandria, particularly the Old Town area, as a great place to stay due to its historic charm, walkability, and proximity to good restaurants and bars. It is noted for being a larger town with a historic town center, providing a balance between a small-town feel and city amenities.

For those seeking a more secluded and scenic option, forum posts suggest considering Lexington as a base for exploring nearby natural attractions like waterfalls and hiking trails. It provides a combination of natural beauty and small-town charm with good eateries.

For family trips, some travelers recommend staying in Charlottesville, which offers access to historic sites and museums, making it suitable for both adults and children.

Some travelers have recommended adding Fredericksburg to their itinerary for its historical significance and quaint downtown area. The town's rich history and charming streets make it a worthwhile stop between Washington DC and Virginia.

According to forum posts, many users suggest visiting Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington, which is located just outside of Alexandria, VA. This site offers a deep dive into American history and the life of one of its founding fathers.

Travelers have called out Shenandoah National Park as a must-visit for those interested in natural beauty and outdoor activities. Despite concerns about seasonal access, its proximity to Washington DC makes it a popular choice for a scenic detour.

For visitors interested in gardens, Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond has been mentioned as a beautiful stop. The garden offers a variety of plant collections and themed gardens, making it a peaceful retreat from urban areas.

According to forum posts, Virginia offers a variety of state parks that are suitable for outdoor activities, particularly hiking. Some travelers have recommended exploring Virginia State Parks for their diverse trails and scenic views. Notably, parks like Shenandoah River State Park provide trails along the river, which are ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

For those interested in water activities and birding, forum users suggest visiting places like Smith Mountain Lake and the Back Bay Wildlife Refuge near Sandbridge. These locations offer opportunities for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and observing diverse bird species in their natural habitats.

Travelers have called out Floyd, Virginia, as a cultural hub, especially for its music scene. This small town is recommended for those who enjoy outdoor music events and cultural festivals, adding a unique musical experience to the outdoor explorations in Virginia.

During the fall, Virginia becomes a popular destination for leaf peeping, with many users highlighting the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park as prime spots for viewing spectacular fall foliage. These areas provide trails and overlooks where visitors can enjoy the colorful landscapes.

According to forum posts, the must-see attractions in Williamsburg, Virginia, include Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestowne, and the Yorktown Battlefield. These sites are highly recommended for their rich historical significance and comprehensive exhibits that cover colonial and Revolutionary War history.

Travelers have called out the Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown as particularly engaging for visitors of all ages because they offer re-creations and interactive experiences that bring history to life.

Some users also suggest exploring the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Museum of Folk Art and the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum for those interested in art and culture. These museums are part of the Colonial Williamsburg experience and offer insights into American folk art and decorative arts from the colonial period.

According to forum posts, it's crucial to stay updated on the weather and road conditions along the Blue Ridge Parkway, especially since areas like Shenandoah can experience snow, icy conditions, and slope washouts in April. Travelers have suggested checking the National Park Service's alerts and conditions pages regularly.

Some travelers said that the Blue Ridge Parkway is a slow route with a speed limit of 45 mph, making it a scenic but time-consuming drive. It's recommended to plan for a leisurely drive, potentially over several days, if aiming to enjoy the full experience.

For many users, finding accommodation along the Parkway requires planning, especially since options like Peaks of Otter offer lodging and hiking but need to be booked in advance. Luray, Big Meadows, and Staunton were also suggested as good places for accommodations, avoiding places like Waynesboro.

Travelers have called out specific hikes and attractions worth visiting, such as the Humpback Rocks, Crabtree Falls, and Natural Bridge. These sites provide enjoyable outdoor activities that complement the scenic drive.

According to forum posts, Virginia experiences a variety of weather conditions, including snow, freezing rain, and heavy rainfall. Snow accumulation ranges from light dustings to heavier accumulations of up to 4 inches in certain areas, particularly in the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding counties.

Travelers have called out multiple winter weather advisories and warnings across Virginia, indicating frequent snowfall and icy conditions that impact road safety, particularly during the winter months. There are also alerts for wind advisories in the Blue Ridge regions, with gusts up to 55 mph reported.

Some travelers mentioned the occurrence of tropical storms, such as Tropical Storm Ophelia, which brought gusty winds and flood warnings to parts of Virginia. These conditions often lead to downed tree limbs and power outages.

Forum posts suggest that Virginia can also experience bitter cold temperatures, with wind chills dropping as low as 20 degrees below zero, particularly in the mountainous areas during winter weather advisories.