Virginia is where American history begins—from the first permanent English settlement at Jamestown in 1607 to the birth of the Constitution and eight US presidents born within its borders. The Commonwealth stretches from Atlantic barrier islands and the Chesapeake Bay in the east to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian Plateau in the west, offering visitors an extraordinary mix of Colonial history, Civil War battlefields, mountain wilderness, wine country, and vibrant coastal cities.
At a glance
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
Brenner Pass Bar
Known for: Alpine schnapps, Austrian and Swiss spirits, craft cocktails with European flair
3108 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23230
Quirk Hotel Rooftop Bar
Known for: Craft cocktails with downtown Richmond skyline views; art hotel setting
201 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
Norfolk Tap Room
Known for: 50+ local and regional craft beers on tap; Virginia-heavy beer list
128 E Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510
Capital Ale House
Known for: 250+ beers on tap — largest selection in the Mid-Atlantic; classic pub food
623 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23219
Dr. Dremo's Taphouse
Known for: Craft beer and cocktails; live music venue; Northern Virginia institution
2001 Clarendon Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
Clubs
For dancing into the early hours.
The National
Cover: $15-45 USD depending on artist; purchase at thenationalva.com or box office
Hours: Show nights only (check thenationalva.com)
The Broadberry
Cover: $10-30 USD; purchase at thebroadberry.com
Hours: Show nights; doors usually 7:00 PM
NorVa
Cover: $15-50 USD; purchase at thenorva.com
Hours: Show nights only; check thenorva.com
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Most venues warm up after midnight — earlier arrivals get easier entry and shorter queues.
Carry ID, even if you look older — bouncers check at most venues.
Plan your ride home before you go out — last transport runs earlier than the clubs close.