Many of us have shopped until our hearts dropped over the last year. After all, we've been stuck at home with not much else to do besides perusing online shopping, and retailers have noticed, our inboxes are barraged daily with big markdowns and sales on these websites. Father's Day is right around the corner, and this year, the fathers in your life probably don't "want" anything material. Why not give the gift of a short trip to get your family out of town and create memories instead? If you're in the Mid Atlantic, check out some of these destinations.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Is the father you're looking to celebrate a bit of a history buff? If so, look no further than Colonial Williamsburg. There are so many historical sites to check out on a visit here. Into horticulture? The botanical gardens are absolutely stunning! There are amusement parks too if you're looking for more fun and activities for younger children and teens. Check out Busch Gardens amusement park or Water Country USA if you're looking to cool down in the hot heat.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Fathers Day is at the beginning of June, which means Virginia temperatures are already pretty high. If the father in your life is all about surf and sun, head to the beach! You can get a hotel right on the boardwalk if you want to be part of the action. An Airbnb in Ghent if you're looking for more of a city vibe. If you just want something low-key or are still avoiding large crowds because of Covid, there's plenty of options to stay out of the buzz of the boardwalk where he can just walk along this beach in his new men's designer sliders you gifted him. Whatever the beach mood you're looking for, Virginia Beach can deliver on it.

Chincoteague Island

After all, Marguerite Henry was inspired to write a children's novel about this idyllic place. If your family is all about nature and wildlife, Chincoteague is a magical place you don't want to miss. This once tiny fishing village, along with Assateague Island, is home to feral horses, but you can visit and observe them. There's even a breed of a horse named after Chincoteague for their distinct look. The horses are descendants of domesticated horses that were brought over to America over 300 years ago. Chincoteague Island is something you must see at least once! Don't worry; there's more to the experience than horses. You can take part in many activities, or romantic bed and breakfasts if you want to take it easy.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Are you looking for even more history? Consider Charlottesville. This town is consistently voted as one of the best places or happiest places to live in America. Some of its most famous residents are Georgia O'Keeffe, Edgar Allen Poe, Sissy Spacek, and Tina Fey. But, none more than Thomas Jefferson. This founding father had such an influence on the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, and his architectural masterpieces are still part of the experience today. It's most notably on display on the grounds of the University of Virginia (its famed library, The Rotunda) and, of course, his family home, Monticello. If you're not interested in the historical vibe of the city, it has so much to offer, from breweries and wineries to gorgeous hiking spots. Not to mention a fun nightlife in the downtown mall. 

Richmond, Virginia

Once the confederacy's capital, this small city has put in a lot of work to revitalize itself and become a voice in the progressive movement. There's so much to do in Richmond, from fantastic boutique shopping in funky Carytown to high-end luxury at one of their several malls. The dining scene in Richmond is second to known, with options for literally every palette or lifestyle. The gardens at Maymont are second to almost none, and if you're bringing young children (or the kid in you) along, the Maymont Petting Zoo is a ton of fun. There's also the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts which shows a variety of collections. 

So that's it! Just a quick list to get your trip ideas flowing. Remember, Virginia is For Lovers, so no matter where you decide to travel, you're going to have a lovely time.