With rotating art exhibits and an abundance of artsy events, Virginia’s art scene stays fresh and vibrant through all four seasons.
Virginia’s deep appreciation for art is widely celebrated and visibly depicted. As a nod to its iconic “Virginia is for Lovers” slogan, 300+ “LOVE” signs are displayed all around the Commonwealth, reflecting this sentiment through fun, creative—and often themed—signs inviting photo opportunities for visitors and locals alike. (For more on LOVEworks including locations, go to Virginia.org/LOVEworks.)
A masterpiece of Virginia’s first-class art scene, Richmond’s Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is a must-do experience for art enthusiasts. With a vast collection of world-wide art spanning more than 6,000 years, the VMFA is one of our nation’s largest art museums. Downtown Richmond is full of countless art opportunities beyond VMFA, including additional museums, art galleries, interesting murals, as well as historical landmarks.
Located in Norfolk’s arts district known as the Neon District, the Chrysler Museum of Art also exhibits a world-class collection of art, as well as a newly renovated state-of-the-art glass studio. Along with amazing visual art offerings, the City has a remarkable performing arts scene, thanks in part to dedicated organizations such as Virginia Arts Festival, which showcases talented artists from around the world in a wide variety of high-quality performances, including the annual Virginia International Tattoo. From award-winning performers to local artists, rich cultural experiences await in Norfolk for enjoying the arts on all levels.
Also not to be missed, Alexandria is where you’ll discover a strong creative community supporting local artists. Drawing around 500,000 visitors each year, the Torpedo Factory Art Center houses 71 artists’ studios, making it the largest gathering of its kind under one roof in the U.S. Nestled in Virginia’s Blue Ridge region in the heart of downtown Roanoke, the Taubman Museum of Art features contemporary art in an inviting, dynamic museum families love to frequent. Downtown Roanoke is also home to all kinds of captivating public art displays.
In Virginia’s southwestern corner, catch a performance in Abingdon’s Barter Theatre, the longest running professional theater in the U.S., or spend time at The Birthplace of Country Music in nearby Bristol. An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the museum offers visitors unique, immersive experiences, including events like the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion (celebrating 25 years of music in 2026) in mid-September. Music lovers won’t want to miss this museum.
From local to regional to international, Virginia celebrates and supports the arts!
Author: VisitVirginia
