Daylor, Patricia A OD

Is your child curious about the world and wants to know how things work? Then he or she will totally enjoy a trip to the Science Museum of Virginia. Several exhibits and attractions are interactive, and inquisitive minds will love learning about electricity, computers, astronomy and much more. Plus, the whole family will feel like space travelers while watching the show at the Ethyl Universe Planetarium and Space Theater. Don't be surprised if the kids want to keep coming back to this fun and educational venue as they continue their quest for learning how everything works.

Maymont began as the 100-acre Victorian estate of Major James H. and Sallie May Dooley. The couple's mansion was complete in 1893 and over the next three decades they created lush garden scenery, picturesque landscapes and beautifully crafted outbuildings. Today, visitors can not only enjoy all of that natural allure, but there are such amenities as the Maymont House Museum, historic gardens, a carriage collection, nature center, wildlife exhibits and a children's farm to enjoy, as well. Still, there are several choice spots to enjoy an outdoor picnic on this inviting piece of historic land.

The State Fair of Virginia seems to encapsulate all that's great about the state. Come and see competitions, horticulture and crop exhibitions, livestock shows, horse shows, as well as an unbelievable selection of arts and crafts and food, too! Plus, the world-famous carousel will be there, so don't even think about leaving before taking a colorful, musical spin. The festival is held in late September into early October.