12 Most Scenic Virginia Towns

Virginia is a historic state on the southeastern coast of the US, boasting a long Atlantic shoreline and sometimes referred to as "the birthplace of a nation" due to hosting the first permanent English settlement. It is the 35th largest state by size and home to famous iconic landmarks like Thomas Jefferson's iconic Charlottesville plantation. Usually, tourists visiting the Old Dominion head for the large towns with the bright lights and giant skyscrapers, but straying to the smaller, underrated towns offers visitors a unique experience. From the majesty of mother nature and tranquil atmosphere away from the urban noise to glorious historic structures and profound cultural heritage, here is a look at some of the most scenic Virginia towns.

Chincoteague

Chincoteague is a modest town in Virginia's Eastern shore region occupying the entire Chincoteague Island, with a population of just over 3,300. One of its main attractions is the annual Pony Swim, where travelers witness more than 100 ponies and foals cross the Assateague Channel. Attend The Chincoteague Fireman's Carnival after the Pony Swim to participate in terrific games, ride the Ferris wheel, and try out the sumptuous Southern-style cuisine.

Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting waxwings and vireos, among other bird species, while exploring the Pony Overlook and Marsh Trails of The Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge on the Assateague Island. In the evening, set sail on a gorgeous Sunset Wildlife Cruise along the Assateague and Chincoteague Islands.

Charlottesville

Charlotteville hosts the University of Virginia and has a population of just over 45,000 residents. Adventures in the city can escape to the wild at the Shenandoah National Park, which boasts more than 200,000 acres of a nature lover's dream. Explorers have more than 500 miles of hiking trails to choose from amid beautiful views of the snow-capped Blue Ridge Mountains and chance sightings of black bears, white-tailed deer, and spotted skunks.

Those interested in historical gems can visit Monticello, the former home of the great Thomas Jefferson, and tour James Monroe's Highland, once a famous slave plantation, for a glimpse into the city's slavery heritage. Finally, enjoy the sweet tunes of live music at the iconic Paramount Theatre alongside or catch an exciting show from local performers.

Farmville

This scenic town in Prince Edward and Cumberland counties offers plenty of outdoor adventures for any visiting thrill-seekers. From hiking and biking to horseback riding, tourists will cherish exploring the 31-mile High Bridge Trail. To make the most of the water, cruise along Briery Creek Lake in a solo or tandem kayak and fish for largemouth bass, crappie, and redear sunfish.

The Robert Russa Moton Museum was once The Moton High School, but today, it offers guests a look into the past, allowing them to relive the 1951 students strike, which catalyzed the Civil Rights Era. Visitors planning a fun family day out can go to Wilck's Lake Park, which features beautiful gardens, calm picnic areas, soccer games, and a kickball field.

Cape Charles

Cape Charles is a cute little locale in Northampton County where guests can swim and sunbathe on Virginia's Eastern Shore. At Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve, visitors can enjoy a long lazy stroll along the boardwalk to the heart of the beautiful Maritime Loblolly Pine Forest as birdwatchers remain on the lookout for over two hundred and forty bird species, including Black Vulture, Bald Eagle, and Mourning Dove.

Those who don't mind getting wet can rent a vessel from Tidewater Charters LLC to fish for the speckled trout, cobia, and redfish on the clear blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. But for a laid-back activity, stroll through Cape Charles' Historic District and marvel at beautiful structures in the neighborhood showcasing the architectural theme of the late 19th century and early 20th century.

Lexington

An art lover's paradise, Lexington is among the most charming Virginia towns worth visiting. The quaint Earth, Fire, and Pottery store sells unique handmade wares inspired by the late Don Poole that will make a cute souvenir. But the vibrant creative scene doesn't end there; it also displays gorgeous jewelry, paintings, and furniture by local artists for visitors to browse.

Outdoorsy travelers can revel in the sounds of indigo bunting and blue jays while navigating the Chessie Nature Trail, which follows the Maury River and ends in Buena Vista. Alternatively, trust in Lexington Carriage Company to serve a truly unique and unmatched experience with a relaxed tour of Lexington's historic downtown and business districts in a horse-drawn carriage while listening to the rhythmic sound of trotting hooves.

Gate City

This modest municipality is positioned in Scott's County, Virginia, and houses approximately 2,000 inhabitants. It is easy to see why Creation Kingdom Zoo is rated among the best in Virginia as it provides guests with rare close-up encounters with exotic species like tigers, giraffes, sloth bears, hyenas, and zebras behind their enclosed habitats. For an even more intimate experience, try feeding a carrot or fruit and marvel at the sight of monkeys and giraffes eating from the palm of your hand.

Golf lovers can practice their golf swing at the Scott County Park and Golf Course and gaze at the alluring Clinch Mountain in the distance. Meanwhile, an excursion deep through Lovers Leap Trail in the Natural Tunnel State Park will enthrall hikers with scenes of the wooded timberland and sprawling vegetation.

Abingdon

Abingdon is just 133 miles from Roanoke and boasts iconic attractions like the Abingdon Muster Grounds, which offers invaluable information on major events during the American Revolution. Historians can follow this up with a visit to the Keller Interpretive Center to explore artifacts and structures from the conflict-riddled period, like the lookout tower and a sawmill display.

For art connoisseurs, touring the Holston Mountain Arts and Crafts Cooperation affords the chance to view the honest creations of locals passionate about the town's craft heritage. But to explore the town's open spaces, embark on an enthralling hike to the heights of Mount Rogers via the Appalachian Trail in what has been described as one of the best hikes throughout southwest Virginia.

Onancock

This modest town in Accomack County is home to a small community of about 1,000 people. An underrated gem, it is famous for its hand-made and performative art appreciators, as evidenced by the Red Queen Gallery. Here, visitors can admire and shop for Mexican Embroidered clothes, while the Crockett Gallery displays paintings of animals and self-portraits. Appreciate the work of local performers by visiting North Street Playhouse, which has constantly scheduled live theater classics since 1996.

Elsewhere, explore the town from the water by booking a tour with Tangier – Onancock Ferry, but for a more hands-on experience sailing through the Chesapeake Bay, Burnham Guides Paddle and Bike has plenty of canoes and kayaks for solo excursions. Afterward, sample the local cuisine by ordering seafood from Mallards at the Wharf, famous for its jalapeno mussels and "all crab" cakes.

Warrenton

This commerce capital of Fauquier County bestows captivating natural scenery, gorgeous wineries, and historical structures. Stroll through Rady Park Arboretum and delight in the serene environment created by the acres of booming vegetation like trees and shrubs. The park also has a designated kids' playing area jam-packed with fun slides and benches, perfect for a family day out.

Dog walkers can explore the old railroad that used to pass through Warrenton Branch Greenway. The trail delights with changing scenery as explorers navigate the peaceful neighborhoods to beautiful wooded forests. The Fauquier History Museum takes historians through the corridors of an old jail built in the 19th century and exhibits the events of the Civil War and both World Wars. Finding an excuse not to unwind with a glass of wine will be difficult as the area boasts at least 20 different wineries, including Mediterranean Cellars LLC and Vint Hill Craft Winery.

Damascus

This modest township in Washington County is popularly known as "Trail Town USA." and is less than 23 miles from Bristol. At the forefront of all the numerous trails traversing the town is the Virginia Creeper Trail, which provides an incomparable biking experience. The track is about 34 miles long and spans two counties, allowing adventures to encounter breathtaking panoramas of Whitetop Mountain, Jefferson National Forest, and Whitetop Laurel Creek.

After a long day of biking, enjoy a picnic in the tranquil atmosphere of Damascus Town Park or fish for rainbow trout and brook trout in the clear waters of Laurel Creek. Later, savor the sumptuous flavors of the local cuisine at The Damascus Diner and wash it down with beer from the well-known Damascus Brewery.

Staunton

Distinctively known as the birthplace of former US president Woodrow Wilson, Staunton possesses vast historical and cultural attractions like The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. Get to know everything about the legacy of this iconic figure through exhibitions of his early college life and his stint in the white house. Visitors also get a rare peek at his stunning Pierce-Arrow Limousine.

Furthermore, tourists can feast their eyes on an incredible collection of cameras from the Camera Heritage Museum, whose inventory features more than 7,000 cameras, with antiques dating back to the 19th century. Vacationing families will gravitate towards the Crack the Code Escape Room. This Amusement Park features fun and exciting games of 2-6 players trying to escape a sticky situation by connecting dots and solving mysteries.

Bedford

This tiny locale in Bedford County shelters slightly above 6,500 people and has enough room for visitors to explore its attractions. A hike through Family Creek Park takes adventurers to an 18-hole golf course suitable for all skill levels. Further ahead is a bike park with a skills loop, which hosts engrossing BMX skills shows and the Fat Tire Weekend, an excellent option for mountain bikers.

Those interested in local history can pop into the Bedford Museum and Geological Library for a lesson about the escapades of Native Americans during their war against Europeans. Meanwhile, fans of the spooky and supernatural stories can test their wit at the Avenel house, where the spirit of a lady in a long dress, "Ghost of Avenel," haunts the grounds. 

Wrapping up

While there are numerous ways of experiencing the allure in the Mother of States, these small but scenic Virginia towns do more than hold their own against the state's major cities, thanks to cultural prestige, gorgeous flora and fauna, and celebrated historical landmarks.