11 Adorable Small Towns in Virginia to Visit in 2024
A fabulous mix of picturesque natural landmarks, a vibrant cultural scene, captivating historical heritage, and charming hospitality draws millions of annual tourists to this beautiful Southern United States destination. Although most come to experience bustling cities like Virginia Beach and Richmond, the Old Dominion harbors adorable locales on the fringes of the state that have historically been underrated. In 2024, take advantage of a prime opportunity to explore small-town Virginia and discover its diverse offerings.
From scenic coastal villages along the Chesapeake Bay to relaxed riverine communities tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, these lesser-visited towns in Virginia deliver a fresh experience. They promise to unveil hidden gems that recharge the soul. Immersed in small-scale joys and natural splendors, travelers can gain a refreshing new lens on the wonders of the Old Dominion.
Farmville
A bustling college town in Cumberland and Prince Edward Counties, Farmville excites visitors with a vibrant downtown that hosts museums, galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. This town is home to Longwood University, which elevates the local art landscape with the Longwood Center for the Visual Arts. This premier venue boasts a world-class collection displaying local and regional artists. Downtown Farmville also houses the Robert Russa Moton Museum, where tourists explore local heritage at the site of America's first student-led Civil Rights Movement.
Golf enthusiasts are in for a lovely experience in Farmville, with excellent opportunities awaiting at various golf courses. The Manor Golf Club stands out for its picturesque greens on a moderately challenging course ideal for all skill levels of golf.
Middleburg
Middleburg has long been a choice destination for the political elite; the Kennedys had a luxurious mansion here. The town’s historic downtown houses a wide array of 19th and 18th-century buildings, some listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Exploring it reveals several local gems worth checking out, such as the National Sporting Library & Museum. Inside this quaint venue lies a fine selection of artifacts and exhibits chronicling Middleburg's sporting heritage. A thriving wine-drinking culture allows guests to sample tasty local crafts at several wineries across town, including Greenhill Vineyards.
Beyond the lively town center, tourists can step outside for an adrenaline-inducing experience courtesy of Empower Adventures Middleburg. Ziplining at top speeds above the thick backcountry canopy promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors.
Luray
Luray's is nationally recognized as home to the iconic Luray Caverns. This popular tourist attraction delivers rare underground adventures, exposing you to dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. The town's location in the Shenandoah Valley means stunning outdoor scenery is waiting to be explored. Punctuated by dense woodlands and mountainous vistas, adventurers can hop on two wheels to ride along the Luray Hawksbill Greenway for exquisite vistas of the town's natural beauty.
A rich mix of museums documents various aspects of the town that many would like to discover. For instance, the Shenandoah Heritage Village provides an excellent account of local culture and history by displaying local exhibits.
Culpeper
Historical experience, shopping opportunities, and outdoor adventure are some of the things tourists can look forward to in Culpeper. Newcomers can first stop by the Culpeper Visitor Center to learn about the top attractions and other essential information to prepare the perfect itinerary. Among the top spots to check out is the Museum of Culpeper History, home to an antique train depot that chronicles local history from the dinosaur age. Burgandine House encourages a peek into Culpeper's past inside an 18th-century historic home.
Culpeper is a great destination for tourists who enjoy sampling locally crafted brews. This institution has several brew houses, including Far Gohn Brewing Company, which also double as amazing hangouts to mingle with the townsfolk.
Onancock
Onancock provides an escape to the beautiful Virginia coast, where a laid-back atmosphere with stunning water views guarantees visitors a soothing experience. A trip aboard the Tangier-Onancok Ferry encourages newcomers to discover the town from the water and revel in the cozy coastal scenery. Numerous galleries dotting the town hint at Onancock's thriving art scene, and guests can discover unique art pieces at establishments like Crockett Gallery and Red Queen Gallery.
You can also get some background on Onancock by visiting the Eastern Shore Watermen's Museum and Research Center, which focuses on the town's maritime heritage. There is more history to uncover at Ker Place, a historic structure built in 1799.
Smithfield
This Wight County village is famous for the Smithfield Ham but promises tourists many more adventures for an unforgettable Virginia experience. This town is a bustling downtown corridor that comes to life with the Smithfield Farmers Market. This exciting gathering sees local vendors displaying fresh farm produce and handicrafts to attract buyers, culminating in a festive atmosphere. Smithfield is chock full of historical landmarks showcasing its colorful heritage.
Some notable venues to explore include the Isle of Wight Courthouse and St. Luke's Historic Church & Museum, which takes guests back to the 17th and 18th centuries. You can discover more history while exploring Smithfield's lovely outdoors at Fort Huger, home to wooded trails through an abandoned Civil War fortress.
Williamsburg
Williamsburg is easily one of the best towns in Virginia for historians, a credit to its deep-rooted American Revolution heritage. The town’s storied beginnings go back to the 17th century when it served as the capital of the Virginia Colony. Today, Colonial Williamsburg is a stark reminder of the past, and strolling through the district exposes you to numerous structures and landmarks. These include the Governor's Mansion, a stately home predating the American Revolution where British Royals would reside.
Additionally, Bassett Hall provides a look into local history inside a landmark farmhouse built in 1753. Besides exploring the rich history, guests will enjoy exciting shopping and dining opportunities at Colonial Williamsburg's Merchant Square, which hosts over 40 specialty stores and restaurants.
Lexington
Home to the Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University, this bubbly college town offers a charming array of experiences to entertain all types of travelers. Upon arrival, tourists can first stop by the Visitor Center of Lexington to get some background on the community and familiarize themselves with the best points of interest to include in their itinerary. These will feature the different museums, which chronicle different aspects of the town's history.
The VMI Museum documents America's military heritage, while the Jackson House Museum offers a window into the 1800s through the historic home of a former Confederate general. Exploring the Chessie Nature Trail is an excellent way to discover the rich nature that envelopes Lexington, with an opportunity to soak in superb views of the Maury River.
Bedford
This Blue Ridge Mountains gem has something for everyone, thanks to a rich mix of indoor and outdoor attractions. At the Bedford Area Welcome Center, tourists can get all the information they need to center their to-do list around attractions that best match their tastes and preferences. Bedford is famously home to the National D-Day Memorial, which pays tribute to the lost heroes of the landmark World War 2 battle. The Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library not only impresses with its old-world architecture but also provides crucial information on the region's past.
Bedford has opportunities for the artistically inclined, inviting them to support talented local artists at the Bower Center for the Arts by browsing creative pieces and watching entertaining performances.
Blacksburg
This vibrant college town is home to Virginia Tech and a youthful population, resulting in an upbeat vibe throughout the community. Like any other college town, sports are a big part of local culture. Lane Stadium invites newcomers to watch entertaining college football games in a world-class arena with an electric atmosphere. Art lovers have much to look forward to in Blacksburg's premier art scene. Visiting the Moss Arts Center allows them to watch the best local performance arts, featuring musicals, drama, and dance shows.
Stepping outside, delightful nature spots beckon outdoor lovers to embrace easygoing walks along quiet trails through the Hahn Horticulture Garden. The tranquil setting is perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
Winchester
The new mixes with the old in this historic northern Virginia community along the Shenandoah Valley. Winchester houses countless pursuits for the historically inclined, given its rich cluster of Civil War landmarks and well-preserved historic homes. Strolling through Old Town Winchester is a surreal journey into the old days, with more than two centuries of history to explore. Some noteworthy venues to check include George Washington's Office, an 18th-century log cabin in the heart of the historic district that served as the president's office. Additionally, the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley presents a broader look into regional history through diverse artifacts.
History aside, guests have several modern pursuits to savor in Winchester, including Worlds Away Escape. This delightful amusement center is excellent for visiting families, and the same is true for the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum.
The Takeaway
Escaping to the most adorable small towns in Virginia allows visitors to discover a side of the historic state that remains delightfully unexplored. From picturesque coastal ports of call to artistic mountain enclaves, each highlighted destination offers unique flavors of natural beauty, small-town charm, and welcoming Southern hospitality. Wandering main streets, sampling the local fare, and taking in the scenery affords extraordinary glimpses into the community spirit and rural livability seldom found elsewhere. Uncovering these gems makes for an enlightening respite in 2024 to uplift the heart and soul.
