9 Off-The-Grid Virginia Towns To Visit In 2026
Every one of these towns sits a long way from the nearest interstate. Tangier takes a ferry across the Virginia waters of the Chesapeake Bay and a golf cart once you land. Monterey takes a slow climb into the maple hills near the West Virginia line. Big Stone Gap takes a long haul into the coal country where Kentucky and Tennessee almost meet. That distance is the reason all nine have stayed quiet into 2026.
Tangier
It's hard to get more off-the-grid than Tangier, a tiny community sitting just four feet above sea level on a small island nearly dead center in the Chesapeake Bay. Getting there is an attraction in itself, as the island is only accessible via the Tangier Island Ferry, a 90-minute ride departing from the mainland at Reedville, or a small non-commercial airport. Once you arrive, learn about the community's fascinating past at the Tangier Island History Museum, which chronicles four centuries of heritage. Fishing and seafaring have been a major part of that, as evidenced by the still-working waterfront and fresh catches at spots like Lorraine's Seafood Restaurant. However, exploring the island's unusual geography is one of the main draws, including a number of walking trails and the beautiful, isolated public beach at the island's southern end.
Monterey
Monterey earns its "off-the-grid" honors with its remote location and the smallest population on our list, with under 200 residents. Set in the rolling hills approaching the West Virginia border, it's another case where the scenic drives approaching and surrounding the area are a major appeal, with long views of unspoiled landscapes and offbeat local attractions, such as the Barn Quilt Trail, which showcases this unique art form. An even more impressive view of the area can be found at the tourist-friendly Sounding Knob Fire Tower, which rises roughly 90 feet from the top of Jack Mountain east of town. The busiest the area gets is during the annual Highland County Maple Festival, held over two weekends each March, where local producers demonstrate the many uses of the substance, alongside craft booths and live music. Still, it remains decidedly quiet and an excellent escape for those looking for an underrated mountain destination.
Wachapreague
Virginia's portion of the Delmarva Peninsula, occupying the southernmost tip, is undoubtedly a lesser-known and lesser-visited corner of the commonwealth. Wachapreague is located here, on the coast amid the numerous rivers, marshes, and bays that separate dry ground from the open ocean. Getting out on the water is a core part of the experience here, including from the centrally located Town Marina. This is a top launching point for day trips to the area's gorgeous, remote beaches on uninhabited barrier islands, such as Parramore Island Natural Area Preserve and Cedar Island, also known for its birdwatching. Nearby, the Virginia Institute of Marine Science Eastern Shore Laboratory periodically welcomes visitors to learn about the marine life of this diverse area at this cutting-edge research facility.
Damascus
Those looking for an active, outdoorsy off-grid adventure should trek out to Damascus, located just over the line from Tennessee in the rugged southwestern region of the state. It's been called "Trail Town USA" due to the number of nationally acclaimed trails that intersect in the area, including the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail. The Virginia Creeper Trail remains one of the region's signature routes, although 2026 visitors should check conditions before planning a ride. The Abingdon-to-Damascus section is open, while the Damascus-to-Whitetop section remains closed during post-Hurricane Helene reconstruction. The Damascus Trail Center serves as a great place to get your bearings, as well as learn about the history of the area and the various trail options. When you need a break, downtown Laurel Avenue is lined with tasty restaurants, laid-back bars, and shops selling trail gear, outdoor supplies, and local art.
Floyd
The gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains are home to many quaint villages, but few stand out for visitors like Floyd. It's a close-knit community still intimately connected to the region's heritage, as evidenced by the town's most prominent attraction, the Floyd Country Store. It's a lot more than just a place to grab a few items or a drink at the classic soda fountain; it's also a top local music venue, hosting acts every weekend with dancing, concerts, and old-fashioned communal jam sessions. Meanwhile, just down the road, the Floyd Center for the Arts hosts exhibitions, art classes, and local events, further establishing the cultural credentials of this small town. Of course, the surrounding mountains are also a major draw, whether visitors are taking a scenic drive down the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway or hiking at Rocky Knob Recreation Area.
Onancock
Another excellent off-the-grid option on Virginia's portion of the Eastern Shore is Onancock, built around the South Branch of the Onancock Creek. Onancock Marina provides the best access point, with the boating and fishing opportunities of the Chesapeake Bay minutes away, along with Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve. It's also got a long heritage of Eastern Shore living, evidenced by the majestic Ker Place, a Federal-style mansion built in the 19th century, now open for interpretive tours. This is just one of several historic sites peppered throughout the inviting central district of the town, mixed among local restaurants, bakeries, and art galleries.
Big Stone Gap
In far southwestern Virginia, sandwiched between Kentucky to the north and Tennessee to the south, Big Stone Gap is a top choice for exploring this proud region's unique heritage. In fact, it's home to the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park, housing more than 60,000 pieces and exhibits in an 1890s stone mansion. You can even watch history play out live in front of your eyes at the Trail of the Lonesome Pine show, held outdoors every summer to tell the stories of the region's development and its major figures. There's also a walkable downtown of local restaurants and shops nearby, along with unique spots like the Meador Coal Museum. Meanwhile, a carefully planned Greenbelt Trail surrounds the town, offering an opportunity for reflection in nature and exercise at the same time.
Clifton Forge
Railroads have played an important part in making Virginia the state it is today, and Clifton Forge offers an off-the-grid opportunity to get in touch with this part of history. Among the biggest attractions in Clifton Forge is the C&O Railway Heritage Center, which celebrates and sheds light on the railroad that supported the town in its early days. However, like many old railway towns, it's also got a historic, easily walkable downtown district, which also contains the Historic Masonic Theatre (a memorable performing arts center), as well as the Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center, which has been promoting the visual arts for more than four decades. All of this comes amid an Alleghany Highlands setting, helping keep this lesser-known spot under the radar.
Tazewell
Not far from West Virginia's southern border, Tazewell offers a small town rich in Appalachian character, natural beauty, and history, combined with modern amenities and services. Scenic drives are also popular here, with evocative routes such as "The Back of the Dragon" or to unique destinations like Burkes Garden, a breathtaking bowl-shaped valley. The town itself is centered around a walkable Main Street, where local restaurants and shops mingle with attractions like the Tazewell County Historical Society. While it offers plenty in the way of modern conveniences, it's nevertheless retained its old-school charm.
Virginia's Off-The-Grid Towns Await Discovery
Getting off the grid is surprisingly easy in Virginia, whether you're catching the ferry to the Eastern Shore or weaving your way into the Blue Ridge or Appalachian Mountains. A few of these towns sit on the water and live by the tides; others keep the old railroad, coal, and maple trades close to the surface. What they share is distance from the interstate and a pace set by the place itself rather than the crowd. Any one of the nine makes a workable base for a quiet few days this year.
