8 Safest Small Communities To Settle In Virginia
The Commonwealth of Virginia is among the crown jewels of the American Southeastern States. Known for its beautiful scenery, friendly people, and rich history, Virginia offers something for everyone. The state known as "the Mother of Presidents" is home to over 8.7 million people who enjoy Virginia's relative safety. So if you're looking to make a move, Virginia may be for lovers, but it might also be the right place for you.
Vienna
Founded in 1754, the charming town of Vienna, Virginia, is currently home to 16,473 people. To learn about the area's history, be sure to visit the Freeman Store and Museum. One of the best aspects of Virginia is its typically pleasant weather. So what better way to enjoy the weather than by spending time at the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts? Enjoy a picnic or lounge around in the area's natural beauty.
To experience a different type of beauty, visit the Vienna Arts Society to view its gallery. While you're there, you can even take an art class. When you've worked up an appetite, you can get a hearty meal at the Vienna Inn. Dulles Airport is approximately a 20-minute drive from Vienna. As a fun fact, you may think the city was named after Vienna, Austria. In reality, Vienna, Virginia, was named after the founder's hometown, Vienna (now called Phelps), New York!
Blacksburg
Nestled in the heart of Virginia's Montgomery County is the beautiful town of Blacksburg. While in town, you can catch a movie at the historic Lyric Theater. For a hearty meal, make sure to stop in at local favorite The Maroon Door! After you've filled up on classic Virginia home cooking, you can take a stroll along the Huckleberry Trail. The 9-mile trail is a great way to stay in shape while enjoying the local scenery. History enthusiasts will want to stop by the Blacksburg Museum and Cultural Foundation. Built in 1896, the Victorian mansion offers visitors the chance to step back in time. For those who love college football, you will want to catch the Virginia Tech Hokies play a home game at Lane/Worsham Field. Blacksburg is about a 45-minute drive to the larger city of Roanoke, Virginia, home to the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport.
Leesburg
Just about 33 miles (53 km) away from America's capital of Washington, D.C., is the charming town of Leesburg, Virginia. With a population of 49,250, Leesburg is one of the larger communities in Virginia, but don't let that deter you. You'll never feel too crowded as you visit historic sites like the Loudoun Museum, or when you spend time meeting some furry locals at the Leesburg Animal Park. Even though some of the park's inhabitants may set a bad example by slothing around all day, the park is fun for the whole family. To learn more about Leesburg's amazing history while working up a sweat, you can go on the Leesburg historic self-guided walking tour. When you've worked up an appetite, be sure to stop by Lightfoot Restaurant. The local eatery may be in a former bank, but its fair prices mean you don't need to take out a loan to eat there.
Middleburg
With a population of just 696 people, Middleburg may be small, but it's got a ton of character. Founded in 1787, Middleburg has maintained its friendly, small-town charm throughout the years. The National Sporting Life & Museum allows visitors to learn all about the town's legendary equestrian pedigree.
Sometimes in life, you just need to get away from it all and fully relax. Well, a visit to the Salamander Resort is the perfect way to do so. Drift away as you enjoy a massage or dip in the jacuzzi. Middleburg's historic downtown is a great place to go shopping for yourself or others. Local favorite eatery Nomad is a great place to stop in for a hearty meal. This beautiful community is just about a half-hour away from the Dulles International Airport, so you're only a short distance away from the rest of the world.
Abingdon
Founded in 1776, the charming town of Abingdon hasn't really changed all that much since then. Its 8,375 residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle that is connected to the past with an eye on the future. Taking a stroll through Abingdon's Historic District will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. To experience some local culture, pop into the William King Museum of Art or catch a show at the historic Barter Theatre. Opened in 1933, the theatre presents a mix of well-known and original works. Throughout its history, performers such as Frances Fisher, Jim Varney, and Gregory Peck have all graced the stage. Outdoors, the Virginia Creeper Trail (named after the plant) is a great place to have a BBQ or read a book and enjoy the area's beautiful scenery. If you get hungry while adventuring, stop in at Jack's 128 Pecan for simple, delicious food. The town is approximately 133 miles (214 km) from the major city of Roanoke, making it an ideal destination for a day or weekend trip to the city.
Chincoteague
The coastal town of Chincoteague, Virginia, is a little slice of heaven in the American South. Nature lovers are sure to feel right at home here! Bill's Prime Seafood and Steaks has been serving up a variety of mouth-watering culinary creations for years, showcasing some of the area's finest seafood. For a chance to get up close and personal with some of the area's other seafood experts, Captain Dan's Tours will allow you the chance to see some dolphins. While in the area, you'll also get to visit the breathtaking Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The 14,000-acre reserve is also home to 150 of the area's famous Chincoteague Ponies. Back on the mainland, you can get an amazing view of the area from the top of the historic Assateague Light. Built in 1867, the lighthouse has been a vital asset to the seaside community. The closest airport to town is the Salisbury Regional Airport, about 50 miles away in Salisbury, Maryland.
Strasburg
In the northern end of the Shenandoah Valley, you'll find the quaint town of Strasburg. Home to just over 7,000 people, Strasburg has a rich history that it wears on its proverbial sleeve. The Strasburg Museum is a great place to learn about the town's rich history. Every now and then in life, you have to stop and just take it all in, right? Thankfully, the Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historic Site is a great spot to take in some of Virginia's breathtaking scenery. During the summer months, catch a game and cheer on the Strasburg Express baseball team! The local club is a part of the MLB-sanctioned Valley Baseball League. Who knows? You might end up seeing a few future residents of Cooperstown on the field. The Blue Wing Frog may have a strange name, but the mouth-watering food they serve will be all you can think about. The closest major airport to Strasburg is Washington Dulles International Airport, located approximately 60 miles (96 km) from the town. No matter how you get there, you'll be glad you did.
Occoquan
Located near Interstate 66, about 20 miles (32 km) from Washington, D.C., you'll find the town of Occoquan. This laid-back town is home to 934 people, making it the perfect place for those tired of overcrowded big cities. While in town, you can learn the town's amazing history by visiting its Historic District and the Occoquan Historical Society. First visited by Europeans in 1608, the town has maintained much of its old-world charm. In the town's historic village, you'll also find the Artists Undertaking Gallery. Inside, you'll get to see incredible art from local artists. If you want to unleash your own creativity, you can even take an art class. For a great meal while in Old Town, stop by The Secret Garden Cafe. If you're looking to get a good sweat going, the River Mill Park is fun all year round. For those who also want to exercise their minds, make sure to stop by Puzzle Palooza and pick your poison of puzzles.
As you can see, Virginia is a unique place. The state's diverse landscape and friendly people offer numerous safe options for those seeking a place to live. Virginia truly has something for everyone. If you love the great outdoors, you'll find something to do all year round. If you're a historian, there is plenty to sift through. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy life, there are plenty of options available. No matter where you go in Virginia, we know you'll love it..
