After leaving Virginia, many find themselves unexpectedly missing a mix of cultural quirks, landscapes, and everyday comforts unique to the state. Here are 13 things former Virginians often long for:
1. Historical Landmarks Everywhere
Living so close to Williamsburg, Mount Vernon, Manassas, and countless other sites makes daily brushes with American history a routine, not a rarity.
2. Outdoor Adventure Options
From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic beaches, Virginia’s wide range of hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming destinations are hard to replace.
3. All Four Distinct Seasons
Virginia’s climate offers dramatic spring blossoms, lush summers, vibrant fall foliage, and crisp winter days—much missed by those in milder or more extreme climates.
4. Diverse Food Scene
Home to authentic Southern BBQ, Chesapeake seafood, international dining in Northern Virginia, and legendary biscuits, food nostalgia runs deep for natives.
5. Small-Town Charm
Quaint communities like Abingdon, Floyd, and Charlottesville thrive on block parties, friendly neighbors, and locally owned cafes missed for their warmth and uniqueness.
6. Proximity to Washington, DC
Being less than an hour away from the museums, nightlife, and vibrant cultural opportunities of the nation’s capital is a unique privilege for many Virginians.
7. Virginia Wine Country
With over 300 wineries, and festivals throughout the year, ex-residents often crave a glass of Viognier or Norton amid rolling vineyard hills.
8. Educational Museums
Hands-on learning at sites like the National Museum of the Marine Corps and the living museums of Colonial Williamsburg are fondly remembered.
9. Unique Roadside Attractions
Oddities like Dinosaur Land, the Roanoke Star, and quirky local festivals fill travel memories with flavor and fun.
10. Café and Coffeehouse Culture
Vibrant independent coffee spots from Richmond to Alexandria, where regulars are treated like family, make chain cafés elsewhere pale in comparison.
11. Festivals and Local Events
Seasonal events, fiddling jamborees, county fairs, and picnics by the Shenandoah River foster a strong sense of community and tradition.
12. Friendly “Virginia Hospitality”
Whether in small towns or suburbs, the neighborly warmth and “hello” culture is a constant comfort sometimes missing elsewhere.
13. Melting-Pot Diversity
Virginia’s blend of cultures results in eclectic food, festivals, and perspectives that broaden the horizons and create belonging for many residents.
These reminders of Virginia’s daily pleasures and character often lure past residents back for visits, if not for good.
Sources
(https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-living-in-virginia-from-someone-who-left-misses-it-2023)
(https://www.beltwaymovers.com/things-you-will-miss-about-virginia-after-moving/)
(https://www.allstatemoving.net/things-you-will-miss-after-moving-from-virginia/)
(https://www.thrillophilia.com/blog/must-visit-places-in-virginia-for-all-kinds-of-travelers/)
(https://billontheroad.com/36-unique-things-you-should-see-in-virginia/)
