The Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) has released “What’s New in Virginia in 2026,” the agency’s curated guide highlighting new and noteworthy developments for the travel industry in the year ahead.
Produced annually, the guide offers an overview of what’s coming to the Commonwealth in 2026.
Some of the highlights featured in this year’s guide include:
Statewide News and Major Openings
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions – Spotsylvania to Open in Fall 2026
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is making waves with its fifth resort, set to open in Fall 2026 in Spotsylvania. With more than 175,000 square feet of indoor waterpark attractions, 900 family-friendly suites, and a massive convention centre, Kalahari will be a full-service vacation destination. Conveniently located just off I-95, the resort is expected to become a major adventure destination for families across the DC–Maryland–Virginia metro area and neighbouring cities.
Celebrate America’s 250th with Special Programs and Signature Events
The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission has planned a full calendar of events to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Signature events include a celebration of Tribal Nations and a Fourth of July event at Colonial Williamsburg. The VA250 Mobile Museum Experience will travel across the state with its exhibit Out of Many, One. The VA250 Passport Program will also continue at historic sites throughout the Commonwealth, allowing visitors to collect stamps at participating locations.
One of the most anticipated celebrations will be Sail250® America, when a fleet of the world’s most magnificent international tall ships and military vessels sails into the port of Virginia. For ten days in June 2026, more than 10,000 officers, cadets, and crew members from over 60 ships representing 20 nations will participate in events across Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay region, celebrating international goodwill and maritime heritage.
Massanutten Resort Expanding Indoor Waterpark and Adding New Hotel
Visitors can look forward to a new five-storey, 140-room hotel at Massanutten Resort in 2026. The hotel will connect directly to the resort’s Indoor WaterPark via a striking atrium.
Major enhancements are also underway at the waterpark, where 28,000 square feet of new space will introduce a racing slide, a family raft ride, and an expanded children’s play area.
Virginia Guesthouse Coming to Charlottesville in Spring 2026
The Virginia Guesthouse will offer an immersive experience on the grounds of the University of Virginia. Located in the university’s Ivy Corridor, the 223,000-square-foot hotel and conference centre will feature 214 guest rooms and suites and more than 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.
Richmond Flying Squirrels Move into CarMax Park
The minor league Richmond Flying Squirrels will begin play at their new home, CarMax Park, in April 2026. Designed as a multi-use entertainment venue, the stadium will host concerts, boxing matches, corporate events, and community gatherings in addition to baseball games.
Coastal Boutique Hotel The Sitio Opening in Virginia Beach
Reservations are now open for The Sitio, a new boutique hotel opening in March 2026 in Virginia Beach’s Atlantic Park development. The contemporary coastal property will feature 20 rooms, an elevated pool deck overlooking the lagoon, and curated surf experiences for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
Korn Ferry Tour Championship Coming to Richmond Region
The Korn Ferry Tour Championship Presented by Virginia’s Richmond Region will take place October 5–11, 2026, at The Federal Club in Glen Allen. Spectators can attend in person or watch the tournament live on the Golf Channel.
Where to Stay in Virginia in 2026
Birdwood Mansion at Boar’s Head Resort – Charlottesville
The historic Birdwood Mansion, located on the grounds of Boar’s Head Resort, is undergoing renovations and is expected to reopen by April 2026. The property will feature four mansion accommodations, three cottages, and a culinary program offering seasonal international tasting menus created by guest chefs.
Wilde Manor – Halifax County
A luxury wildlife retreat, Wilde Manor will open in Spring 2026, offering elegant suites and immersive wildlife encounters in a serene natural setting.
Camp Yellow Cardinal – Prince Edward County
Located just 30 minutes outside Richmond, Camp Yellow Cardinal will introduce a luxury glamping experience with geodesic dome accommodations featuring hot tubs, king-size beds, and fire pits.
The Laurel Hotel – Danville
Opening in February 2026, The Laurel Hotel will bring boutique hospitality to the historic Schoolfield Village, just steps from Caesars Virginia. The property will feature 36 guest rooms, modern amenities, and attentive service.
JW Marriott Reston Station
Virginia’s first JW Marriott opened in Reston Station in September. The hotel offers 243 guest rooms, luxury residences, 35,000 square feet of meeting space, chef-driven dining at The Simon, and the elevated Schar Bar, along with wellness-focused Mindful Rooms, public art, and a walkable garden.
The Promissory Hotel – Roanoke
A historic bank building in downtown Roanoke has been transformed into The Promissory Hotel, which debuted on New Year’s Eve. The property includes 27 rooms, The Exchange Music Hall performance venue, and the Spanish restaurant ¡Suerte!.
Three Hill Historic Estate & Spa – Warm Springs Valley
Opening in Spring 2026, this boutique inn and spa sits on 44 acres in Warm Springs Valley and will emphasise nature-based wellness experiences.
Where to Eat & Drink in Virginia in 2026
R Kohls Winery – Stanardsville
Opening in May 2026, the family-run winery will cultivate varietals such as Albariño and Chardonnay.
Good Ship Brewing & Eatery – Hopewell
Hopewell welcomed its first brewery in January 2026. The converted space features fire pits, a beer garden, and live music areas.
Elijah Craig History and Cocktail Trail – Orange County
Launching in May 2026, this new trail combines historic landmarks, distilleries, and restaurants, offering themed drink specials along the route.
Bread & Butter – Onancock
Chef Shannon Andes will open Bread & Butter, a new restaurant bringing globally inspired cuisine to Virginia’s Eastern Shore.
Waverly Springs – Nelson County
A new restaurant, farm, and boutique inn will open inside a restored 1600s stone farmhouse, serving farm-to-table cuisine sourced from its 17-acre property.
Petit Domaine and Estate – Loudoun County
Virginia’s first winery dedicated entirely to sparkling wine opened in October 2025. The property features a beach club-inspired setting, with estate wines expected to debut in 2027.
Stone Ledge Cider – Augusta County
A new tasting room and cider production facility will open at the 20-acre farm, alongside the reopening of the Cider House Bed & Breakfast following restoration.
Bottoms Up Beverage Trail
A digital passport experience connecting Front Royal, Warren County, Berryville, and Clarke County, allowing visitors to explore 12 breweries, wineries, cideries, and meaderies while earning digital rewards.
What to Do in Virginia in 2026
Brown’s Island – Richmond
Following major renovations, this riverfront park will reopen in October 2026 with new terraces, play areas, shaded seating, and accessible pathways.
Riverfront Amphitheatre – Lynchburg
Opening in Spring 2026, this venue will host 10–20 concerts and performances annually.
Garden of Tomorrow – Norfolk Botanical Garden
A multi-year expansion including a visitor pavilion, skywalk, and conservatory featuring Chihuly glass art is scheduled for completion in Spring 2026.
Greater Williamsburg Sports & Events Center
Expected to open in August 2026, the 200,000-square-foot complex will include basketball courts, volleyball courts, indoor turf fields, and event spaces.
Williamsburg African American Heritage Trail
Launching in 2026, the 2.5-mile trail will highlight more than three centuries of Black history through markers, public art, and digital storytelling.
Hershey Super Sweet Adventure – Tysons Corner
Opening in March 2026, this immersive experience will feature interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and chocolate-themed attractions.
Milestone Anniversaries
125th Anniversary of Main Street Station
Richmond’s Main Street Station, a restored 1901 Beaux-Arts landmark, celebrates 125 years as one of the country’s most beautiful railway stations.
100th Anniversary of Agecroft Hall
Agecroft Hall will mark its centennial with “Cheers to 100 Years!”, a Roaring Twenties–themed celebration on April 11, 2026, featuring jazz music, themed cocktails, and over 5,000 tulips in bloom.
100th Anniversary of Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
Founded in 1926 by John D. Rockefeller Jr., Colonial Williamsburg has become the world’s largest U.S. history museum. Special programs and travel packages will commemorate the milestone.
100th Anniversary of Maymont
Maymont celebrates 100 years as a public park and museum in 2026, with the reopening of the Dooley Mansion and an expanded Virginia Wildlife Trail.
John Jasper Memorial Room & Museum
The museum at Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church in Richmond marks its centennial, preserving the legacy of founder John Jasper and the church’s history.
100th Hampton Cup Regatta
North America’s oldest continuously running hydroplane boat race returns August 1–2, 2026, at Fort Monroe, celebrating 100 years of racing tradition.
