13 Prettiest Small Towns In Virginia
There is no end to the list of attractions that draw millions of travelers to the Old Dominion State. From rich colonial history and popular national parks to vibrant culture, this East Coast state has enough to go around. Scattered across its picturesque landscapes, from the Blue Ridge Mountains foothills to the Shenandoah Valley, are magnificent destinations waiting to be discovered. These allow you to experience the unmatched diversity synonymous with Virginia while discovering local attractions.
Unlike big cities like Virginia Beach and Richmond, the small towns are the lifeblood of the state and expose newcomers to authentic experiences. Whether you want to bask in Chincoteague's storybook coastal beauty or venture underground to inspect Luray's mysterious caverns, here are some of the prettiest small towns in Virginia.
Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a coastal paradise on Virginia's Eastern Shore, surrounded by natural beauty and steeped in serenity. It is a renowned getaway to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, whose isolated beaches invite guests to escape the urban commotion and enjoy the company of nature. The area has beautiful wild ponies that roam around its maritime forests and a thriving wildlife population. You can learn about the breed at the Chincoteague Pony Center and even learn how to ride one.
Chincoteague's dynamic backstory is displayed at the Museum of Chincoteague Island. The venue displays hundreds of artifacts and chronicles the town's evolution since the early days. However, those who want a vivid glimpse of old-world Chincoteague can tour the Captain Timothy Hill House, built at the beginning of the 19th century.
Front Royal
This small town in Warren County provides access to some of the state's most popular attractions. It is a gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park. Locally, visitors are drawn to the mystery behind the Skyline Caverns. This underground adventure takes you down a flight of steps into a series of geological caves with dramatic crystalline formations. Front Royal houses a handful of noteworthy historical landmarks, highlighted by Balthis House. Built in 1787, this Federal-style home is the oldest surviving structure in the town.
Those vacationing with family can head to the Royal Family Bowling Center for an excellent time bowling, playing arcade games, and enjoying delicious treats with family. But if you are all alone, consider sampling the local craft beer offerings at Vibrissa Beer.
Smithfield
A winning blend of a rich art scene and enduring historical heritage makes this Wight County community a favorite among travelers. Smithfield's historic district is dotted with sites and landmarks depicting the past eras. The Schoolhouse Museum brings back memories from the early 20th century, highlighting the experience of African American children. Additionally, St. Luke's Historic Church & Museum welcomes guests to examine Virginia's oldest church, boasting a red-brick construction from the 1600s.
Smithfield's arts community comes together every May to celebrate the Smithfield Arts Festival. The spectacle takes over the downtown area as vendors, exhibitors, live performers, and family-centric games dominate the corridor.
Luray
Luray's location in the Shenandoah Valley opens doors to supreme natural beauty that adventurers come in numbers to experience. It is famous for hosting the iconic Luray Caverns, a system of underground caves with eerie walkways and dramatic stalagmites, columns, mud flows, and stalactites. The caverns are within walking distance of the Luray Zoo. This small yet interesting sanctuary hosts a good number of wildlife species, from birds and primates to mammals, enticing visitors with exotic animal encounters.
Besides its wonderful nature, Luray harbors a colorful history that is preserved inside several museums. The Shenandoah Heritage Village displays a collection of old buildings, gardens, and a vineyard depicting life in the 19th century.
Crozet
Crozet sits about 12 miles from Charlottesville and is a popular getaway for anyone taking a break from the vibrant college town. It has beautiful outdoor spaces and nature areas, such as Mint Springs Valley Park. Spanning over 500 acres, this green oasis is punctuated by forested mountains, rugged hiking trails, and a seasonal swimming beach, serving as the ultimate recreational hub. Several craft wineries in the city, including Kings Family Vineyards, treat guests with delightful wine tastings of some of the best wines in the region.
Furthermore, golf lovers of all skill levels can test their technique on the manicured fairways of Old Trail Golf Club. This 18-hole championship golf course poses a worthy challenge against the picturesque backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Clifton Forge
This adorable community in Alleghany County is known for its railroad heritage, lively arts, and natural allure. It hosts the C&O Railway Heritage Center, where you can learn interesting facts by examining vintage railway cars, memorabilia, and artifacts. The Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center connects the community with the visual arts. It collects and displays fine art pieces by local artists. Meanwhile, the Historic Masonic Theatre and Masonic Amphitheatre focus on staging entertaining theatrical shows.
Stepping outside, travelers can play golf on a lovely course at Cliftondale Country Club. It presents nine challenging holes on manicured greens surrounded by terrific nature views.
Staunton
American historians know Staunton as the hometown of the country's 28th president. The town draws thousands of fans to the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, where various artifacts, relics, memorabilia, and personal testimonies preserve Wilson's colorful and diligent legacy. If you enjoy quirky attractions, the Camera Heritage Museum promises to interest you with its eccentric collection. Over 6,000 cameras, dating as far back as the 1840s, chronicle the evolution of photography.
Staunton also charms guests with entertaining art opportunities. These include examining several galleries, studios, and a library at R.R. Smith Center for History and Art, or watching nostalgic plays at the American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse.
Norton
Norton is an excellent destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures. It houses an expansive wilderness area with numerous recreational opportunities, starting with the Flag Rock Recreational Area. This 1,000-acre nature space comprises dense forests, rugged trails, and secluded campsites. Elsewhere, the smaller Clear Creek Park is ideal for families and those who don't stray into the town's remoteness. This offers friendly amenities like a playground, ball fields, and a walking track.
But if you are not lost in the great outdoors, Norton's quaint downtown has a couple of interesting pursuits. The Wood Burger Grill entices culinary enthusiasts with mouth-watering American fare, featuring sandwiches, burgers, BBQ, and more.
Williamsburg
One of the historically engrossing small towns in Virginia, Williamsburg intrigues vacationers with its rustic charm and nostalgic experiences. Guests enjoy an exciting trip down memory lane at Colonial Williamsburg, which provides a window to the colonial years when it served as the capital. Numerous old homes, buildings, stores, and shops occupy this 300-acre complex, which also features costumed reenactors to add to the authenticity of touring the site. You can't miss the imposing Governor's Palace, an opulent homestead that once housed royals and governors of the Virginia Colony.
Besides history, Williamsburg has an unmissable surprise for families with an affinity for adrenaline-filled rides at Busch Gardens. This 400-acre amusement park houses dozens of thrill rides, roller coasters, and spectacular events.
Abingdon
Abingdon is an artsy community on your way to the Tennessee border with a vibrant downtown district. It boasts an active arts and culture scene, which newcomers can experience inside the rustic hall of Barter Theatre. Considered the nation's oldest operating professional theater, it stages compelling stage performances throughout the year. Abingdon also hosts the William King Museum of Art for visual art enthusiasts. Housed inside a 1913 school building, the venue showcases a mix of modern and historic artworks from around the world.
Downtown Abingdon comes to its own when the Abingdon Farmers Market graces its streets on Saturdays. This fun gathering attracts crafters and farmers with a diverse assortment of goods, resulting in a festive atmosphere with exciting social interactions.
Cape Charles
Cape Charles is a popular destination on Virginia's Eastern Shore, set on the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. It is famous for its lovely beaches, sumptuous seafood, and fun festivals, culminating in the ideal summer escape. Many visitors love to escape to Kiptopeke State Park, which offers a serene coastal environment with miles of sandy hiking and biking trails overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. The Cape Charles Brewing Company crafts great-tasting beers where you can enjoy a pint or two to get in the holiday mood.
Finally, the Cape Charles Crabby Blues Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the town. It showcases the best of regional seafood cuisine, with an opportunity to indulge in tasty crab dishes in an upbeat atmosphere with music, boat rides, and other entertaining activities.
Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is an independent historic town adjacent to Spotsylvania County and a former colonial trading hub, rooted in American Revolution and Civil War heritage. It hosted several battles during the iconic conflict, including the landmark Battle of Fredericksburg. Today, you can visit Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park to witness the site of four major battles. You can find crucial information about the battles at the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center, chronicling the war.
Beyond the war, Fredericksburg is chock-full of historical sites and markers hinting at enduring heritage. The Rising Sun Tavern Museum is an excellent example and provides a glimpse of taverns in the 18th century.
Ashland
This Hanover County community is famous for its annual Ashland Strawberry Faire in June, which celebrates the Strawberry harvest with a string of family fun and entertainment activities. Meanwhile, the downtown has a lively atmosphere, with an eclectic mix of businesses. The Ashland Museum is dedicated to preserving the area's history with a diverse collection of memorabilia and archives. Meanwhile, the Ashland Theatre is the local hub for movies and live performances, screening the latest movies.
Several local breweries welcome visitors to enjoy tasty local brews. At the Center of the Universe Brewing Company, you can find a beer garden, tasting room, and restaurant always teeming with excited patrons.
Whether seeking to spend your vacation relaxing on the beaches of Cape Charles or delving into Civil War heritage in Fredericksburg, the prettiest small towns in Virginia promise a roller coaster of exciting experiences. While each comes with different attractions and charm, they cumulatively provide a unique perspective of the Old Dominion that you can't find in the urban areas. There is enough to go around, whether taking a solo trip or a family vacation.
