These 9 Towns Are Virginia's Best-Kept Secret
Virginia’s small towns are steeped in history, framed by breathtaking natural landscapes, and filled with charming local businesses that make them feel like hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the well-trodden tourist hubs, these smaller communities offer visitors a slower pace of life with equally rich experiences. From Colonial-era architecture and Civil War landmarks to mountain trails and scenic waterways, these towns embody the best of Virginia’s diversity. Each destination offers a unique mix of attractions that highlight local pride and authenticity. Here are nine of Virginia’s best-kept secrets, perfect for those seeking an escape into beauty, history, and culture.
Abingdon
Abingdon is best known as the endpoint of the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile scenic route popular with bikers and hikers. The town is also home to the Barter Theatre, one of the longest-running theaters in the nation, offering high-quality plays and performances. Visitors will find history preserved at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, a grand 19th-century hotel with Southern charm.
Beyond the stage and trails, Abingdon’s historic district is filled with antique shops, galleries, and dining spots like 128 Pecan, a local favorite for upscale comfort food. The William King Museum of Art adds another cultural layer, showcasing both regional and global exhibits.
Smithfield
Smithfield is known for its small-town charm and famous hams. The Isle of Wight County Museum displays the world’s oldest peanut and a 1902 ham that has become a quirky local legend. Downtown, visitors can stroll along Main Street, which is lined with boutique shops and restaurants like Taste of Smithfield, which serves regional favorites. Windsor Castle Park offers scenic walking trails, fishing piers, and kayaking along Cypress Creek.
The town also preserves history at sites like the Smithfield Historic District, where centuries-old homes and churches showcase colonial architecture. Visitors can also explore St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum, the oldest brick church in Virginia, dating back to the 1600s.
Onancock
Onancock is a waterfront town steeped in history and maritime culture. The Onancock Wharf and Marina is the heart of town, where visitors can dine at waterfront restaurants like Mallards at the Wharf or catch a ferry to Tangier Island. The town also features Roseland Theatre, a historic venue for films and live performances. Art lovers will enjoy the North Street Playhouse and galleries showcasing local works.
Historic walking tours reveal charming 18th-century architecture and sites such as Ker Place, a Federal-style mansion that now operates as a museum. Nature lovers can kayak through the creeks and inlets that wind around the town, providing a serene view of Virginia’s Eastern Shore.
Lexington
Lexington stands out as a college town with a deep sense of history. Home to Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute, the town is dotted with historic buildings and landmarks. The Stonewall Jackson House and the Lee Chapel & Museum allow visitors to connect with the area’s Civil War history.
Downtown Lexington is filled with bookshops, art galleries, and inviting cafés, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Nature lovers can head to the nearby Maury River for kayaking or explore the Blue Ridge Mountains that surround the area. Lexington’s mix of intellectual energy, history, and natural beauty makes it an enriching stop.
Scottsville
Scottsville sits along the James River, making it a perfect spot for tubing, kayaking, or fishing excursions. The Canal Basin Square museum explores the area’s canal and river transport history, complete with preserved lock gates and interactive displays. Downtown, visitors will find antique shops, art galleries, and restaurants like Amici’s Italian Bistro, which locals recommend for hearty meals. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy hikes at Hardware River Wildlife Management Area, just a short drive away.
The town also preserves its Civil War heritage with landmarks like the Scottsville Museum, which showcases regional history and artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Seasonal events, such as the James River Batteau Festival, bring the community together with music, food, and historic boat recreations.
Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a charming barrier island town famous for its wild ponies, which can be spotted at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge also offers sandy trails for biking, hiking, and birdwatching. Visitors often head to Assateague Island National Seashore, where pristine beaches invite relaxation, and kayaking is popular. The Museum of Chincoteague Island provides insight into the area’s maritime past, with exhibits on shipwrecks and island culture. Downtown, you’ll find boutiques, cozy ice cream shops, and waterfront seafood restaurants like Don’s Seafood Restaurant, where fresh catches are always on the menu.
The town is also known for its annual Pony Swim and Auction, a summer event that draws crowds from across the country. Families enjoy boat tours around the island, where dolphins and herons can often be seen in their natural habitat. Chincoteague’s harbor area, dotted with colorful fishing boats, adds to the town’s picturesque coastal charm.
Middleburg
Nestled in Virginia’s horse country, Middleburg is a picturesque town surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. It is renowned for its equestrian culture, with events such as fox hunting and polo adding to its charm. Downtown Middleburg features brick sidewalks, boutique shops, and historic inns that create a storybook atmosphere.
The National Sporting Library & Museum is a highlight, showcasing equestrian art and history. Visitors can also enjoy wine tastings at nearby vineyards such as Greenhill Winery or Boxwood Estate. Surrounded by countryside beauty and steeped in horse tradition, Middleburg offers a refined yet approachable small-town experience.
Cape Charles
On Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Cape Charles pairs historic charm with beachside relaxation. Its restored downtown features brightly painted buildings filled with shops, art studios, and cozy cafés. The Cape Charles Museum tells the story of the town’s railroad and bayfront heritage, enriching the visit with context.
Outdoor lovers can enjoy Cape Charles Beach, a family-friendly stretch of sand perfect for swimming or lounging. Nearby, Kiptopeke State Park offers hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities along the Chesapeake Bay.
Farmville
Farmville thrives as a college town with an active community. Home to Longwood University, it has a youthful energy combined with a small-town atmosphere. Downtown Farmville is known for its furniture and antique stores, particularly Green Front Furniture, which has become a shopping destination in itself.
The town is also a gateway to High Bridge Trail State Park, where a historic railroad bridge offers sweeping views of the Appomattox River. History buffs will enjoy the Robert Russa Moton Museum, which explores the town’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Final Thoughts
Virginia’s best-kept secret towns offer a refreshing mix of history, nature, and small-town hospitality. Each destination reveals a quieter side of the state, where charming main streets and preserved landmarks tell stories of resilience and tradition. From river towns like Scottsville to seaside escapes like Chincoteague, these communities showcase Virginia’s diversity beyond the typical tourist trail. Whether your interests lie in outdoor adventure, Civil War history, or simply savoring local cuisine, these towns provide experiences that feel both personal and timeless. Visiting them is not just a trip—it’s a chance to uncover the heart of Virginia’s enduring charm.
