11 Offbeat Towns to Visit in Virginia
“Give me liberty or give me death,” Patrick Henry cried in Richmond, Virginia, to announce the start of the American Civil War. Nowadays, the state of Virginia is happy to give you an abundance of liberty while you are out exploring the many offbeat towns of the state. Take a dip in Chincoteague’s lush waters or marvel at the majestic ponies of the area. Go cave-diving through Luray’s many underground systems and walk the historic or natural trails of Abingdon or Smithfield. Most of all, experience excitement and wonder outside the usual roads and paths in the state of Virginia. Instead of liberty or death, give yourself a desirable adventure through the many offbeat towns in Virginia.
Chincoteague
Chincoteague, on the island of Chincoteague, is home to a wild breed of ponies in the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. If these adorable, four-legged beauties are not enough to make you visit the island, then perhaps a possible sighting of small NASA rockets from Wallops Island, delivering supplies to the International Space Station (ISS), might interest you.
Beyond these unique attractions, visitors can learn all about Chincoteague’s oyster industry at the Museum of Chincoteague Island. The Assateague Lighthouse offers splendid scenery of the harbors and waters surrounding the island. Best of all, fine establishments like the Anchor Inn, Marina Bay Hotel & Suites, and The Reef provide excellent services for your leisure.
Abingdon
Located on the Great Wagon Road—a route many pioneers used to cross the Blue Ridge Mountains—Abingdon is a two-hour getaway from Roanoke, with several hiking and biking trails to engage your adventurous nature. One of these grand pathways is the Appalachian Trail, a 2,190-mile footpath flanked with panoramic views and sights, winding from the expansive Whitetop Laurel Creek to the high-altitude Mount Rogers. It also terminates into the beautiful Burkes Garden. Another is the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile trail connecting Abingdon with its sister city, Damascus. Aside from these treks, one can enjoy the waters of Holston Lake or the labyrinthine corridors of the Great Channels. Do enjoy a peaceful night at A Tailor’s Lodging, Black’s Fort Inn, or Creeper’s End Lodging.
Smithfield
Want to know what the early American lifestyle was like in Virginia? Then head on to the town of Smithfield, where the 18th and 19th centuries are arrayed in the many edifices of the Windsor Castle Park. Admire the world’s oldest ham since 1902 at the Isle of Wight County Museum, and say merry praises a panoply of bronze statues sculpted by critically acclaimed George Lundeen. Tour the premises of St. Luke’s Historic Church Museum, Virginia’s oldest brick church, or explore the verdant region around the Pagan River where several battles during the American Civil War took place. Should you require accommodations, consider booking rooms at the Smithfield Inn or the Mansion at Main.
Lexington
Built by Scottish, Irish, and German immigrants on a region previously inhabited by the Saponi, Monoca, and Tutelo tribes, the town of Lexington is a place of great diversity. This diversity is especially prominent in the geographical terrain in the Shenandoah Valley and around the Maury River. One specific feature is the Natural Bridge, a 215-foot-high limestone arch that serves as a fitting portal into Lexington. The fields around Lexington are so fertile that one can find a prototype of a mechanical reaper at McCormic Farm, a device that kickstarted modern industrial agriculture.
If the outdoors is not to your liking, then you might be interested in touring Lexington’s historic buildings. The Sam Houston Wayside and Goshen Pass Wayside are vitally and vibrantly grand structures that honor great American heroes. Nearby, the Miller’s House Museum enlightens tourists about Lexington’s transportation past. For lodgings, look to the Abigail Inn, The Georges, and Grace House for your needs.
Onancock
Approximately 40 minutes from Chincoteague, the opulent town of Onancock blesses and beckons visitors with all sorts of spectacles. From a monthly international film at the Roseland Theater to compelling and interactive history lessons at Onancock’s maritime museum, there is no shortage of amazing attractions to enjoy in this quaint town. Charter a ferry towards the distant Tangier Island from May to October, or boat down Onancock Creek that leads out into Chesapeake Bay. Perhaps take a stroll through Onley Point and Bailey Point. Whatever you do, simply enjoy this great town that John Smith called "the Gem of the Eastern Shore,” and stay a while at The Spinning Wheel Bed & Breakfast, The Inn at Onancock, or The Charlotte Hotel.
Staunton
Climb aboard a historic train from the Virginia Scenic Railway and towards the quaint dwelling of Staunton. About 40 minutes from Lexington, you can experience all the sensational delights that the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley has to offer. The Frontier Culture Museum chronicles all the happenings in one of the oldest towns in Virginia, while also hosting performances that showcase the culture of the people that called the Shenandoah Valley their home.
For those who want to experience more of Staunton, head to the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum to know more about President Woodrow Wilson, or venture across Virginia’s Heritage Migration Route that has close ties to the Great Road and Philadelphia. If you ever get tired, the Avid Hotel Staunton, Howard Johnson Express Inn, and The Blackburn Inn and Conference Center are there to attend to your needs.
Farmville
When it comes to education, Farmville serves as an excellent college town for those who want to know more about Virginia. After all, Farmville is only 65 miles west of the era-making Richmond, and home to the Longwood University and Hampden-Sydney College. Students and travelers can learn about the Civil War at the High Bridge Trail State Park and Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park. They can also learn how the war came to an end at the Appomattox Court House. The Robert Russa Moton Museum, on the other hand, illustrates the rise and challenges faced when advocating for Civil Rights awareness during the 1950s. Last but not least, prestigious establishments such as Hotel Weyanoke, Hilton Tru, and The Manor Cottages have all the accommodations you need to feel safe and relaxed at Farmville.
Luray
Brave the darkness underground in the town of Luray. About 90 miles west of Washington D.C., the Luray Caverns is the largest cave system in the eastern US, challenging spelunkers with sinuous and labyrinthine chambers. To immerse yourself in the sluicing experiences that the pioneers had to go through, one can get a hands-on immersion at the Stonyman Mining Company Gem Sluice.
If the underworld is not to your liking, perhaps the waters of Hawksbill Creek and Lake Arrowhead might suit your fancy. Or the amazing views of the Shenandoah Valley from atop Old Rag Mountain will give you excitement in Luray. Either above or below ground, it is best to sleep your weariness away at The Hawksbill House, Cardinal Inn, or Hotel Laurance.
Cape Charles
As one of the earliest colonized areas in the Thirteen Colonies, Cape Charles has functioned as a vital hub for transportation and commerce in Virginia. One can appreciate the town’s crucial junction at the Bay Coast Railroad. In addition to this historic railroad, the Cape Charles Memorial Library is the oldest library on Virginia’s eastern shore, chronicling the various individuals that contributed to the American dream. Meanwhile, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, a 17.6-mile structure that crosses the expansive Chesapeake Bay, promotes a dynamic and sublime view of the region as well as guides travelers to the Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge and Kiptopeke State Park. So in your exploration of Cape Charles, remember to book rooms at the Northampton Hotel, Fig Street Inn, or Hotel Cape Charles.
Occoquan
Occoquan is aptly named for its location along the Occoquan River. Designated as a Historic District, the town boasts well-preserved Victorian architecture and notable historical events that enhanced its importance. For instance, the legendary explorer John Smith visited Occoquan when it was known as Tauxenent, a settlement of the Doeg people, and later, Thomas Jefferson also traveled through this unique town. The Mill House Museum in Occoquan details the numerous grist mills that played a vital role in the town's development, while River Mill Park and Lake Ridge Park offer both natural beauty and cultural experiences. For further insights into Occoquan’s history, a variety of historical markers are scattered throughout the town’s streets.
Fredericksburg
If Farmville is known as the location where Ulysses S. Grant finalized the end of the Civil War, Fredericksburg stands as one of the last sites affected by battles during the conflict. The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park showcases four significant battles and serves as the final resting place for over 17,000 Union soldiers. The first battle occurred in 1862, followed by another in 1863 near Chancellorsville. The third and fourth battles—the Battle of Wilderness and the Battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse—took place a year later. Remnants of these battles can be discovered around the Rappahannock River.
In addition to its role as a Civil War battlefield, Fredericksburg holds personal significance for President George Washington and his family. Historic sites such as the Mary Washington House, Ferry Farm, and Historic Kenmore are linked to the Washington family. To delve deeper into Fredericksburg's rich history, consider starting your stay at The Silk Mill, Kenmore Inn, or Silver Collection Hotel before embarking on an extensive exploration of the town’s storied past.
In Conclusion
As one of the oldest states in the US, Virginia nurtures a landscape of ecological beauty and a charming Americana spirit. While exploring larger cities like Roanoke and Richmond can be thrilling, Virginia’s quirky towns truly embody the essence of American life, offering distinctive insights into both history and modernity. Enjoy the Atlantic Ocean along the shores of Chincoteague and Onancock, brave the depths of Luray’s caverns, and take in the breathtaking Shenandoah Valley from vibrant towns such as Abingdon and Lexington. Ultimately, let Virginia’s pristine countryside lead you through its rolling hills and valleys, uncovering the many unique towns that will undoubtedly enchant you.
