State Arboretum of Virginia at Blandy Experimental Farm: If you’re heading into Virginia’s countryside or mountains, this facility – which is part of the University of Virginia – will provide a welcome transition with more than 700 acres to explore. While the environmental challenges we face can feel overwhelming, says Carrie Whitacre, assistant curator of the herbaceous gardens, “gardening with native plants for pollinators and wildlife is an actual contribution to our environment that anybody can do.”