9 Undisturbed Towns To Visit In Virginia
As you plan your next travel itinerary in the Commonwealth of Virginia, consider skipping the bustle of its large cities for a nonchalant retreat in its often underrated small towns. These hidden gems harbor the heart and soul of the Old Dominion, scattered between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Combining genuine Southern hospitality, unique cultural traditions, and beautiful rural scenery, they deliver a novel experience worlds apart from the major urban hubs.
Together, they provide an authentic feel for the state, whether you are indulging in scrumptious local cuisine, exploring preserved historical treasures, or participating in longstanding festivals. From the quiet coastal scene in Chincoteague to the rustic downtown streets of Smithfield, here are some of the most charming towns to visit in Virginia.
Cape Charles
Cape Charles is a quaint fishing village on the Chesapeake Bay, known for its alluring coastal scenery, enduring seafood heritage, and beautiful historic district. The downtown region harbors several structures listed on the National Register, alluding to the community's rich history. This is preserved inside the Cape Charles Museum, home to detailed exhibits of photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia dating back over a century. Beyond the town square, the Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve invites laid-back walks along a picturesque boardwalk overlooking the Chesapeake Bay and tranquil maritime forest habitat.
Cape Charles's thriving seafood scenery allows guests to indulge in tasty crab, oyster, and lobster dishes at The Shanty in a romantic waterfront setting. After a delicious meal, guests can wash it down with a refreshing pint of craft beer at the welcoming Cape Charles Brewing Company.
Ashland
Ashland sits about 18 miles from Richmond, making it the ideal getaway when you want a break from the busy capital. Its walk-friendly downtown district hosts a lively entertainment scene, which you can explore inside the Ashland Theatre. This cultural hub stages live performances, mainstream movies, special presentations, and more. Meanwhile, the Ashland Museum exhibits a fine selection of memorabilia of relics that help preserve the area's cultural and historical heritage.
After an eye-opening history lesson, you can pass by Hickory Creek Antiques to sort through its large collection of vintage treasures for a possible souvenir. Finally, Ashland hosts the annual Ashland Strawberry Faire, which breathes life into the town square with craft exhibitions, a parade, live music, and fun kids' activities.
Abingdon
This small town in Washington County has a rich historical heritage that manifests through a 20-square-block historic district. The area houses a couple of important historical landmarks, such as the Fields Penn 1860 House Museum. It provides a unique view of Abingdon in the Victorian period. Art is another significant piece of the area's cultural fabric, and enthusiasts often gather inside the Barter Theatre to watch world-class stage productions. Alternatively, you can browse a lovely collection of contemporary and classic art pieces at the William King Museum of Art.
Casual shoppers can wait for the Abingdon Farmers Market to sort through an assortment of home-baked goods, farm produce, meats, crafts, and other merchandise while interacting with friendly local vendors.
Bedford
This adorable village in Bedford County offers a unique balance between indoor and outdoor attractions to ensure everybody finds something interesting to do. Outdoor enthusiasts have several options, including the sprawling Falling Creek Park. The unique space has everything from picnic areas, a golf course, walking trails, and more. Bedford has a unique backstory that is presented by the Bedford Museum and Genealogical Library, with information about past wars, Native Americans, and local history.
Meanwhile, the National D-Day Memorial pays tribute to the American D-Day veterans. Art enthusiasts can find both visual art pieces to check out and live performances to watch at the Bower Center for the Arts. The historic venue hosts everything from exhibits, musicals, concerts, classes, and more.
Warrenton
With a history stretching back to the early 19th century, Warrenton is one of the most historically significant towns to visit in Virginia. You can tell this from the several vintage sites and markers it hosts, starting with the Fauquier History Museum. This resourceful facility is housed inside an 1800s jailhouse, full of related artifacts and memorabilia. There are enough recreational opportunities indoors and outdoors, with the Warrenton Branch Greenway providing an ideal route for walkers, joggers, and runners to explore the open spaces.
On the other hand, guests of all ages can find various modern amenities at the Warrenton Aquatic and Recreation Facility, including an indoor pool and therapeutic spa. Elsewhere, culinary enthusiasts can find tasty flavors at Cast Iron Craft House, which serves farm-to-table comfort foods alongside great cocktails.
Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a hidden gem on the Eastern Shore with unrivaled coastal scenery and pristine natural surroundings. It is a known getaway to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, a paradisiacal sanctuary with 14,000 acres of dunes, beaches, marshlands, and maritime forests. The sanctuary provides a habitat for hundreds of bird species and is famous for its roaming wild ponies. You can't fail to sport the imposing Assateague Lighthouse, a stark reminder of the area's enduring maritime heritage.
However, Chincoteague's dynamic history comes alive at the Museum of Chincoteague Island, where a colorful collection of memorabilia highlights different civilizations that have occupied the island through the years. If you care for a water-based thrill, consider booking the SaltWater Pony Tours for up-close views of local wildlife.
Staunton
Popular for being the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson, Staunton enchants visitors with its curious backstory and vibrant live performance landscape. It has a beautiful downtown area with a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, inviting first-timers to discover landmark attractions like the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum. This rustic structure preserves the former president's birthplace and numerous memorabilia from his life and times. The American Shakespeare Center treats art lovers to classic theatrical performances inside a replica of Shakespeare's indoor theater.
Furthermore, the R.R. Smith Center for History & Art focuses on visual art, while offering a combination of archives, galleries, classes, and conference space. Lastly, those who want to step outside have 214 acres of open space to discover at Gypsy Hill Park, with recreational opportunities like picnicking, hiking, and nature viewing, among others.
Smithfield
Smithfield is a friendly community in Wight County, steeped in historical heritage. It harbors a well-preserved historic district with conspicuous red-brick structures offering a vivid glimpse of the old days. St. Luke's Historic Church & Museum traces its beginnings back to the 17th century, yet maintains its structural integrity. Those who desire a deeper dive into Smithfield's rich history can visit the Isle of Wight County Museum, whose quirky exhibit collection includes the world's oldest Smithfield ham.
Downtown Smithfield hosts the weekly Smithfield Farmers Market, a fun gathering with assorted produce and crafts where you can catch up with locals. Elsewhere, outdoorsy tourists can head to Windsor Castle Park for lazy walks along its 4-mile trail system.
Front Royal
Front Royal is a popular gateway to the Shenandoah National Park and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty at every turn. The mystic Skyline Caverns are a major tourist draw to the town. Guests are compelled to explore this geological wonder along underground passageways with dramatic crystalline formations. Meanwhile, Front Royal River Adventures spoils guests with exciting kayaking and canoeing tours down the choppy waters of the Shenandoah River.
Back in downtown, newcomers can explore the early days in Front Royal at Balthis House. Built in 1787, it is one of the oldest structures in the town. Lastly, don't forget to sip some sweet craft wines at Chester Gap Cellars while admiring the establishment's mountain surroundings.
Final Thought
Beyond the typical tourist paths, the Old Dominion is chock-full of exciting destinations with a low-key reputation yet vibrant personality in the United States. From picturesque Cape Charles to historic Staunton, these quiet towns to visit in Virginia allow tourists to explore local attractions without fuss. You’ll stroll historic streets, sip local wine, kayak quiet waters, and explore lush landscapes all at a relaxed pace to discover some of the state's best-kept secrets. Overall, each is a true representation of a gentler side of Virginia.
