Virginia is gearing up for an exciting year in 2025, offering a dynamic mix of openings, anniversaries, and unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. From historic commemorations to thrilling new attractions, the Commonwealth is set to provide something for everyone.
Events and Anniversaries
- America’s 250th Anniversary
The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the founding of thenation, with a multi-year series of signature events, special exhibits, and interactive experiences leading up to the official anniversary in 2026. The first major 250th show in the nation, Give Me Liberty is a signature 5,000 square foot exhibition that will be displayed at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown throughout 2025 to 2027.Moreover, At the Second Virginia Convention, held within the St. John’s Church in Richmond, Patrick Henry gave his legendary speech on revolution leading to a resolution that committed Virginia troops to the Revolutionary War. 250 years later, St. John’s Church and VA250 invite you to witness history come alive at a series of reenactments in the very spot where this pivotal moment unfolded including the online LIVE streaming of this historical enactment on va250.org. - 100th Annual Chincoteague Pony Swim
This year marks the 100th Annual Chincoteague Pony Swim and Auction to be held July 30-31, 2025. The annual event funds the care and protection of wild ponies that roam the marshes and maritime forests of the Eastern Shore. Established in 1925, the week-long festivities include a sunrise beach walk, a swim across the channel, guided by the Saltwater Cowboys, a nightly carnival, and more. - 50 Years of Thrills at Virginia’s Amusement Parks
To celebrate its 50th anniversary season in 2025, Kings Dominion, the Doswell, VA amusement park, is welcoming a brand-new ride, Rapterra, the world’s tallest and fastest launched wing coaster while Busch Gardens Williamsburg celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025 with the launch of a new coaster – Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge. - USA Cycling Endurance Mountain Bike National Championships
Virginia’s Blue Ridge is set to host the 2025 and 2026 USA Cycling Endurance Mountain Bike National Championships, with seven days of racing events and over 1,500 athletes in July 2025 and 2026. The races will be held along the trails of Explore Park, Elmwood Park in Downtown Roanoke, and Carvins Cove, with plenty of opportunities to watch the riders in action. - World Pride 2025
World Pride 2025 is coming to Washington D.C. in June, and Virginia, just across the Potomac River from the nation’s capital, provides the perfect place to stay while attending. Virginia is also ideal for a pre or post World Pride holiday offering an array of experiences such as a trip to Virginia Beach for a little sun and surf, a wine holiday in DC’s wine country, Loudoun County,or a historic city stay in Virginia’s capital of Richmond.
New Accommodations
- Caesars Virginia
Opened in December 2024, Caesars Virginia in Danville brings Roman luxury to the South with a 320-room hotel, a casino, a full-service spa, upscale dining, and Ramsay’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay—the first of its kind in Virginia. - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol
Blending the signature style of Hard Rock with Southwest Virginia’s charm, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol opened in November 2024. The resort boasts 300 rooms, a casino, world-class restaurants, and a Rock Spa®. - AC Marriott & Residence Inn Reston
A dual-concept property opened in early 2025, featuring 120 fully equipped kitchens at the Residence Inn and 147 modern rooms at the AC Hotel, complete with dining options like SEVEN Restaurant & Bar and the SYN Rooftop Bar & Lounge. - The Birdwood Mansion
Slated for a fall 2025 opening, the Birdwood Mansion at Boar’s Head Resort in Charlottesville is undergoing renovation to offer four accommodations, adjacent cottages, and a top-tier culinary program. - Shenandoah Mansions
Coming soon to Richmond’s Fan District, Shenandoah Mansions will feature 73 rooms in a historic, red-brick building, showcasing cinematic interiors and old-world charm.
New Dining Experiences
- Ebbitt House
The first-ever expansion of Washington D.C.’s Old Ebbitt Grill, Ebbitt House will open at Reston Station in 2025. This 300-seat dining venue will feature two bars, 125 outdoor seats, and a menu of American classics. - Electric Bull Steakhouse
In Vienna, Chef Victor Albisu’s Electric Bull Steakhouse will open in summer 2025, offering a unique South American steakhouse experience. - Local Lion Brewery
Opening in April 2025, Local Lion Brewery in Hillsboro is the latest addition to Loudoun County’s LoCo Ale Trail. Named after two lions, the brewery will offer an exciting new stop for craft beer lovers. - Virginia Wine Collective
Opening in May 2025, the Virginia Wine Collective tasting room will offer visitors a chance to sample wines from multiple winemakers while exploring production tours.
New Experiences
- National Museum of the United States Army
In June 2025, the museum will unveil a new exhibit, CALL TO Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War, in honor of both the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and America’s 250th anniversary. - Level99
Opening in Tysons Corner in 2025, Level99 will feature over 50 interactive physical and mental challenges, along with a food and beverage area for social gaming. - Allianz Amphitheater
Debuting in summer 2025, the Allianz Amphitheater in Downtown Richmond will host a variety of live performances alongside the James River. - Science Museum of Virginia
From February 1 to August 25, 2025, the Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO® Bricks exhibit will feature iconic skyscrapers built from half a million LEGO® bricks. - Atlantic Park and The Dome
Pharrell Williams’ Atlantic Park will open in Spring 2025 in Virginia Beach, offering year-round surfing and a new entertainment venue, The Dome, with spectacular views of the surf lagoon.
Virginia’s 2025 lineup promises to be a year to remember, brimming with opportunities to celebrate history, explore new adventures, and create lasting memories.
