Summer's here and you know what that means...travel! But sometimes traveling can be very expensive. So if you live in Virginia, here are some of the top spots to go; if you're not from this area, then these places are a must on your summer bucket list.

1. Chincoteague, Virginia

Chincoteague is such a beautiful island. It's a definite go to on any travelers bucket list. It's a small island but filled with beautiful sites like Assateague Island. It also has a wildlife preserve. Food wise, any restaraunt is great and the small coffee shop you see when you first enter the island is a definite go to! In the mood for ice cream? Island Creamery has the BEST ice cream on the island. It's absolutely delicious. Aside from the beaches, Chincoteague also is very famous for it's ponies. Each year the islanders gather up the wild Chincoteauge ponies and they swim across the sound! It's very cool! So if you're looking for places to go this summer, Chincoteague is a must.

2. Carytown

Carytown is one of the most fun places to go in Virginia. If you love live music and big events/parties, than Carytown is for you. Known for it's urban chic vibe, Carytown has a lot to offer. Parties on Friday and Saturday nights, and the food is incredible. You have so many options! Galaxy Diner is out of this world, Mellow Mushroom, is a totally cool relaxed pizza place oh and I can't forget the famous Carytown Burgers and Fries! And to top it off for dessert, Carytown Cupcakes or For The Love of Chocolate. You'll have so many varites you won't know what to choose! Carytown has amazing events you won't want to miss this summer.

3. Colonial Williamsburg

Take a trip back in time and head to Colonial Williamsburg for the day. The cultural experience is just incredible. They do reenactments of the Revolutionary War and they are very hands on and it's an all around great experience for families! And when you're done you can head into the shops and look around. Willamsburg is such a wonderful place to visit.

4. Washington D.C.

One of the top tourist places in the world is our nations capital Washington D.C. Whether you stay for the weekend or just the day, there is so much to do! From the Lincoln Memorial to the Capital there is so many different tourist sites. One of my personal favorite museums is the Aviation Museum. It's so cool to visit. You can actually go IN some of the airplanes!!! Very cool. D.C. is a lot to cover in just one day so make it a weekend. And definitely hit the National Zoo!

5. Alum Springs

Want a family picnic and to enjoy nature? Alum Springs is perfect for that. This hidden beauty is hidden in Fredericksburg Virginia and is great for any family day trip. Swimming, fishing, or just simply relaxing, Alum Springs is a great place to go.

6. Roanoke, Virginia

Take a break from the beaches and head to the mountains. Roanoke has TONS of things to do. Center in the Square is a great place to walk around and shop and eat. And the best coffee is at Mill Mountain Coffee. After shopping drive up to the famous Roanoke Star where you get a breathtaking view of Roanoke and all the Blue Ridge Mountains. It looks like a painting. There's also the famous McAfee's Knob that is a beautiful 4.4 mile hike with a breathtaking view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Also driving the Blue Ridge Parkway is an experience everyone should do. It's beautiful. Roanoke is a small city but it's filled with cultural, music and just fun.

7. Virginia Beach, Oceanfront

If you don't mind the crowds, Virginia Beach Oceanfront is definitely for you. There are tons of things to do. The boardwalk is filled with rides and games and great places to eat! The Virginia Aquarium is also located near the boardwalk, and on a rainy day, that's a great place to go and take the kids! So beat the crowds and head to Virginia Beach Oceanfront. After all it made the top 100 favorite boardwalks to visit in America.

6. Colonial Beach, Virginia

If you're not much of a beach person, then come on out to Colonial Beach. Located right on the Potomac River, Colonial Beach is a cute beach town in Westmorland County. There's so much to do. From fishing to swimming. You'll never be bored. Oh and park your car, the best way to get around in this cute little town is walk, bike or golf kart! There's so much to do, so plan a long weekend getaway with a loved one and head to Colonial Beach!

7. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Rainy days are perfect days to visit museums. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, is a great place if you love modern art. Open from 10am-5pm, VMFA a great place to go. Tour guides are available and give tours to groups of 10-50 people. VMFA is open 365 days a year and General Admission is free.

So from the beaches to the mountains, Virginia has A LOT to offer! This summer head to some of these places. Who knows what you could find?!