11 Most Charming Small Towns In Virginia
Virginia boasts a treasure trove of charming small towns, where Southern charm, timeless history, vibrant culture, and pristine nature collide seamlessly to grant tourists an unforgettable rural experience. Forget the permanent pandemonium and constant commotion in the big cities; these hidden gems invite you to slow your roll and discover the true heart and soul of the Old Dominion through authentic encounters with welcoming communities, rare adventures in the great outdoors, and soul-stirring moments in quaint streets lined with centuries-old architecture.
From peaceful mountain hamlets to serene coastal retreats, venturing off the well-beaten pathway is a breath of fresh air for vacationers seeking a unique experience. Whether drawn to the sleek beachside atmosphere in Chincoteague or the rugged mountain scenery in Bristol, here are the most charming small towns in Virginia.
Marion
This picturesque village in the Blue Ridge Mountains is credited with being the birthplace of Mountain Dew, and leaves first-timers stunned at its gorgeous natural landscapes. Marion is an outdoor lover's paradise, and spoils ardent adventurers with boating, camping, hiking, kayaking, and backpacking opportunities throughout the rugged 3,300-acre Hungry Mother State Park. Those who fancy a hiking challenge can brave the climb to Virginia's highest point at Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, where sweeping panoramas of Marion's astounding landscapes await.
Marion is also home to one of the few Mayan Revival theaters remaining in the country. The Lincoln Theatre is a famous cultural hub in downtown and hosts a mix of concerts, films, and stage plays throughout the year. Lastly, beer lovers have an opportunity to sample the refreshing countryside brews at 36° Fifty Brewing when the time comes to unwind.
Bristol
This unique twin city, situated on the state line, just across from Tennessee, enchants visitors with its wonderful music heritage and curious history. Bristol hosts the origins of country music and is home to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. This heritage venue shares rare stories about the beginning of the genre with a focus on the 1927 Bristol Sessions, which experts deem to be the "Big Bang of country music." At Legacy Theaters Bristol 14, cinema lovers can experience watching flicks in a classic setting.
The town square offers a quiet spot to relax and breathe fresh air at Cumberland Square Park. This urban oasis has the ideal environment for a relaxed picnic, surrounded by lush greenery across 4 acres.
Wytheville
Wytheville combines small-town living and pastoral countryside beauty to offer guests an authentic taste of the Virginia backcountry. This tiny town in Wythe County boasts a vibrant theater scene throughout its downtown district, entertaining tourists with a German-themed theatrical production at the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre in a modestly warm atmosphere. The Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum offers a unique glimpse into the life of the former First Lady of the United States, utilizing a collection of letters, books, photographs, documents, and other artifacts.
Meanwhile, you can travel back in time to Victorian-era Wytheville by touring the Haller-Gibboney Rock House, a Federal-style dwelling built in 1823 with period furnishings and related displays. For the outdoors inclined, nothing beats an escape to the tranquil environment of Truss Bridge Park to be one with nature.
Big Stone Gap
Big Stone Gap is a secluded town in the heart of Appalachia, renowned for its rugged mountain surroundings and a rich heritage exploring early life in western Virginia. The region's stunning landscapes cultivate outdoorsy adventures, beckoning sightseers and nature photographers with unprecedented vistas from the Powell Valley Scenic Overlook. Historians can brace for a trip down memory lane at the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park, which features a landmark 19th-century mansion with at least 60,000 artifacts documenting the history of the region.
Additionally, the June Tolliver House acts as a portal to the Victorian period by preserving the home of a local architect and showcasing period antiques, art, and crafts. Before leaving, be sure to sample delicious mountain cuisine at Curklin's Restaurant, featuring favorites like baked potato and grilled chicken sandwich.
Galax
Galax is a scenic mountain town in southwest Virginia, renowned for its lively downtown district, which hosts a rich traditional music scene. The town square is home to numerous performance venues, with the most prominent being the Rex Theater. Opened in 1940 as a movie house, the location has evolved into a cultural hub, where the entire community gathers to watch live music shows featuring Bluegrass and old-time genres. Elsewhere, the Blue Ridge Music Center hosts musical performances outside, featuring country and folk music in an open-air theater.
Vacationers can enjoy the great outdoors courtesy of New River Outdoor Adventures, which offers rafting, tubing, canoeing, and kayaking trips down the New River. While exploring the open spaces, you will encounter intriguing history at the Matthews Living History Farm Museum, a 21-acre demonstrative farm from the early 1900s.
Farmville
Home to Longwood University, Farmville is an old-fashioned college town in central Virginia oozing timeless charm and an active art scene. It boasts a memorable Main Street, lined with attractions like the Longwood Center for the Visual Arts. The venue fosters an artistic culture in the community through workshops, classes, programs, and exhibitions of pieces by Virginia artists.
History buffs can get eye-opening insight into the student-led arm of the Civil Rights movement by visiting the Robert Russa Moton Museum. It highlights the 1951 protest by students from R.R. Moton High School. Outside the downtown limits, Farmville welcomes nature enthusiasts to explore fishing, picnicking, and boating opportunities at the 150-acre Wilck's Lake Park, which harbors a 55-acre reservoir.
Colonial Beach
Coastal charm meets small-town flair in this relaxed community in Westmoreland County, bounded by the winding course of the Potomac River. Colonial Beach allows tourists to take it easy and let their minds wander at the Colonial Beach Municipal Pier. This pleasant waterfront offers stunning vistas of the Potomac River and features a lovely boardwalk, fishing areas, and local shops. Those wishing to venture out to the open can charter a vessel at the Colonial Beach Yacht Center and enjoy an easygoing cruise.
Colonial Beach offers an interesting bit of history at the James Monroe Birthplace & Boyhood Home, which chronicles the life, journey, and legacy of America's 5th president. Finally, remember to pass by Colonial Beach Brewing and enjoy tasty craft beers accompanied by savory Mediterranean dishes.
Tappahannock
Tappahannock is a historic waterfront town on the banks of the Rappahannock River, renowned for its enduring heritage, fresh seafood, and outdoor adventures. Established in the 17th century, the community boasts a long and dynamic backstory, which can be explored at the Essex County Museum. The venue showcases a selection of exhibits spanning the prehistoric era to modern-day life in the region. Culinary buffs have an opportunity to try out the local seafood scene at To-Do-Cafe. This down-home establishment cooks up delicious shrimp, crab, and oyster dishes, serving them in a relaxed atmosphere.
Meanwhile, tourists with an outdoor inclination can challenge themselves with a golfing session at the 18-hole Hobbs Hole Golf Course or go fishing on the banks of the Rappahannock River.
Cape Charles
Cape Charles is a hidden gem on the Eastern Shore and one of the most charming small towns in Virginia. Set on the scenic Chesapeake Bay, the town opens doors to exciting adventures on the water, and sailing enthusiasts can book a trip with Poseidon Watersports to take in its beauty from the water. Also, a lively seafood scene prepares culinary connoisseurs for a delectable experience. You can savor the famous Chesapeake Bay cuisine at The Shanty, with blue crabs, oysters, and lobster rolls on the menu.
Downtown Cape Charles is a district frozen in time and harbors a cluster of vintage buildings. The neighborhood offers a glimpse into the past, especially when you visit the Cape Charles Museum and examine its vast artifact collection. Finally, guests who prefer to isolate themselves and commune with nature can escape the crowds by heading to Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve.
Lexington
Natural beauty meets historical heritage and artistic flair in this stunning community in the Shenandoah Valley. Lexington is surrounded by a pristine countryside that invites tourists to explore the allure of rural Virginia during a hike along the Chessie Nature Trail. This 7-mile route is punctuated by abundant beauty and wildlife habitats as it straddles the Maury River. Meanwhile, the Jackson House Museum interests guests with an intriguing glimpse of history. This vintage brick mansion preserves the home of a former Confederate general, Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson.
More history awaits discovery at the VMI Museum, which shares rare facts and stories about the Virginia Military Institute. Also, movie buffs can watch the newest Hollywood iterations at the R/C State Cinema 3 for their indoor entertainment.
Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a family-friendly island escape on the Eastern Shore region of Virginia, loved for its comfortable weather, thriving wildlife, and fun adventures on the water. The town is often associated with the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, where a rich diversity of marine flora and fauna flourishes. Spread across 14,000 acres, the natural space features beaches, maritime forests, dunes, and marshes, and is known for hosting wild ponies. Guests can book the Saltwater Pony Tours for relaxing cruises with sightings of native wildlife species.
The Assateague Lighthouse is a conspicuous landmark in town, towering 142 feet high to remind newcomers of the area's maritime heritage. Furthermore, interested parties can delve into Chincoteague's captivating history at the Museum of Chincoteague Island.
From swimming with wild ponies in Chincoteague to learning about the origins of country music in Bristol, these charming small towns in Virginia open your eyes to some of the state's best-kept secrets. Spread across the state, between the Eastern Shore and the Blue Ridge Highlands, they bring out the best of Virginia’s soul, welcoming you with open arms, slowing you down with their serenity, and filling your journey in the United States with surprises that remain in your mind for a lifetime.
