10 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Virginia

Virginia's big cities like Richmond and Virginia Beach may treat you to some of the most sought-after attractions in the state, but their hustle and bustle keep you from enjoying the laid-back retreat you've been planning for a while. To escape this chaotic scenery, you need to venture into the small towns on the fringes of the Old Dominion. Between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Coast, these villages provide the ideal setting for pure relaxation with quiet Main Streets and scenic rural landscapes.

These towns in Virginia exemplify easygoing Southern living at its finest. From colonial treasures in Fredericksburg to sugar-white sands in Chincoteague, they welcome you to slow down and immerse in small-town vistas and hospitality. So take a deep breath and discover Virginia's relaxing refuge from urban commotion.

Fredericksburg

Steeped in colonial and Civil War heritage, Fredericksburg delivers a surreal experience with its treasure trove of antique landmarks and sites. The town hosts multiple battlefields spread across the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, where visitors can check out medieval buildings, walk old trails, and pay tribute to fallen Civil War heroes at Fredericksburg National Cemetery. Chatham Manor reminds tourists of the conflict eras, offering a window to an 18th-century plantation that later served as a Civil War headquarters.

You can explore the town's past further with a tour of the Mary Washington House. George Washington purchased this well-preserved mansion for his mother in 1772, and you can still see some of its original furnishings. Also, Alum Spring Park offers an escape to a tranquil natural space with picnic areas and shaded walking paths.

Cape Charles

This Chesapeake Bay city enjoys mellow beach scenery that allows visitors to relax their minds and let loose. It has beautiful open spaces tailored for unassuming walks to unwind, including the Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve. A well-maintained promenade of the site takes visitors through stunning scenery marred by coastal forests and a sandy shoreline. Bay Creek invites golfing enthusiasts for a tee time on a picturesque course overlooking the water.

When not reveling in the serenity of the town's open spaces, you can learn about its captivating story at the Cape Charles Museum by examining exciting artifacts and manuscripts. Meanwhile, savoring scrumptious seafood cuisine on a waterfront patio at the Shanty is a must-do in Cape Charles.

Abingdon

This Blue Ridge Mountain getaway in Washington County entices vacationers with its artsy vibe, small-town appeal, and rustic charm. It boasts talented creatives who treat guests to riveting live shows inside the Barter Theatre. This is complemented by the intimate pieces exhibited by the William King Museum of Art to ensure opportunities for both visual and performance lovers.

The Abingdon Farmers Market allows newcomers to interact with local growers and learn about the town. Its vibrant atmosphere encourages good-nature interactions while shopping for assorted merchandise. Finally, don't leave the city without sampling its refreshing craft brews at Sweetbay Brewing Company.

Onancock

This tiny destination of less than 2,000 residents has the hallmarks of an easygoing getaway in rural Virginia. The arts are a big part of Onancock, and visitors will notice the diverse venues dedicated to the industry. North Street Playhouse is an excellent example, known for captivating audiences with plays, musicals, and dramas. On the other hand, Danny Doughty Gallery caters to visual fans by displaying a unique selection of intimate creations.

Onancock is a prime destination for culinary buffs hoping to sample rich Southern flavors. Its multiple restaurants culminate in a delectable dining scene, luring guests with sumptuous seafood dishes at Mallards at the Wharf. Finally, one of the best visitor pursuits involves riding the Tangier-Onancock Ferry to discover the town from the water.

Occoquan

Simple and serene, Occoquan charms first-timers with its homey feel. It houses about 1,000 permanent residents, leaving plenty of room to scan its idyllic natural scenery nonchalantly. River Mill Park is a great place to start; it has a paved walking trail and picnic spaces with exquisite views of the Occoquan River. Those who fancy getting on the water can rent a vessel from Penguin Paddling for a relaxed canoeing or kayaking adventure down the calm river waters.

Occoquan has an impressive art scene that promises enthusiasts something to look forward to. At the Loft Gallery, guests will encounter fine pieces by more than a dozen local artists. Meanwhile, visitors can check out the exhibits inside the Mill House Museum, a crucial local landmark featuring a restored 18th-century mill.

Williamsburg

Virginia's colonial experience comes back to life in one of the most retro towns in Virginia. Guests can look forward to an immersive journey with an opportunity to witness 17th and 18th-century treasures. Williamsburg served as the capital of the Virginia Colony and maintains a treasure trove of landmarks spread across Colonial Williamsburg. There are over 40 landmarks in this 300-acre complex, highlighted by the Governor's Palace. This stately mansion predates the Revolutionary War and portrays the lifestyle of British royals who once called it home.

While ranging over the district, you can take a short retail therapy break at Colonial Williamsburg's Merchants Square, home to dozens of specialty stores and restaurants. If you visit with kids, spoil them with unadulterated theme park entertainment at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

Culpeper

Culpeper's exhaustive mix of attractions ensures that tourists enjoy a rounded experience, regardless of their preferences. It welcomes you to learn its origins at the Museum of Culpeper History, which collects, preserves, and presents the town's origins through interactive exhibits. Touring Burgandine House takes you back to the 18th century, an interesting period in the town's chronology. It features a well-preserved plank log dwelling.

The locals take pride in their beer-drinking ways and welcome guests to this beloved culture at the Far Gohn Brewing Company. Its family-friendly atmosphere allows you to comfortably sample freshly made craft beers and mingle with the locals while at it.

Staunton

Staunton has a vibrant arts and culture scene that shines through its past, cuisine, music, and social entertainment. This promises visitors a nice blend of adventures to fuel their holiday in rural Virginia. Many know it as President Woodrow Wilson's hometown, immortalized at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum. Visiting the location is an interesting look into the president's legacy through related artifacts. The Camera Heritage Museum is a quirky attraction about the evolution of photography and harbors a vast collection of cameras from different eras.

Vacationers can join residents for exciting live performances at the American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse. The venue hosts classical plays in a family-friendly setting, reenacting Shakespeare's indoor theater. However, outdoorsy travelers will prefer to enjoy the open spaces at the 214-acre Gypsy Hill Park.

Farmville

This relaxed town in Cumberland and Prince Edward Counties is home to Longwood University and is famous for housing the Robert Russa Moton Museum. The site was the birthplace of student-led resistance during the Civil Rights Revolution in America and is designated a National Historic Landmark. Farmville shows its appreciation for creativity with the Longwood Center for the Visual Arts. This impressive facility exhibits a blend of art forms from the community and the surrounding region.

Those seeking an outdoor escape can visit Wilck's Lake Park, which harbors multiple recreational opportunities throughout its 150-acre territory. Adventurers enjoy everything from camping and hiking to picnicking and fishing. When hungry from a long day of activities, you can restock with a hearty meal at Charley's Waterfront Cafe.

Chincoteague

This beautiful island getaway on Virginia's Eastern Shore has mellow vibes and a one-of-a-kind retreat. Chincoteague charms newcomers with the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, whose tranquil surroundings invite lazy walks on white sands leading to stunning ocean views. The area is known for hosting a herd of wild ponies that freely wander its grassy shores. Booking the Assateague Explorer Pony Watching Cruise makes for a remarkable time on the water, presenting a closer look at the wild horses emblematic of the area.

Visitors curious about the island's past can find valuable information at the Museum of Chincoteague Island, which showcases a vast collection of archives and artifacts. Finally, don't leave Chincoteague without sampling the rich Mexican flavors served at Pico Taqueria.

The Takeaway

Whether discovering the rustic downtown of Cape Charles or ambling through the colonial buildings and public greens of Williamsburg, these picturesque towns in Virginia are a calm respite from urban life. Their laidback environments and lovely heritage create the perfect setting to relax and unwind in true Virginia style. Additionally, their unique offerings introduce tourists to a fresh side of the state they hardly see in the bustle of the big and famous cities.