Sunrise in the marina in Chesapeake Bay

These Small Towns in Virginia Come Alive in Summer

Discover the authentic essence of summer in Virginia by exploring the enchanting charm of small towns that come alive during the season. These delightful destinations blend natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exciting adventures. From serene state parks to majestic mountains, each town boasts unique attractions that set it apart, making it a must-visit for summer travelers. Explore hidden gems of these towns, immerse yourself in vibrant summer festivities, and participate in stimulating outdoor activities. With its rich history and culture, Virginia offers an opportunity to learn and explore what makes each town special. These small towns flourish in the summer and make your visit to Virginia memorable.

Cape Charles

Aerial View of Beach Homes in Cape Charles Virginia
Aerial View of Beach Homes in Cape Charles Virginia

Tucked away along the Virginian coast, Cape Charles is a coastal paradise that offers a perfect combination of restfulness and excitement. The area's highlight is its untouched beach, where travelers can relax in the sun, take a dip in the revitalizing waves, or get pleasure from stimulating water sports such as kayaking and standup paddleboarding. In particular, Sunset Beach furnishes incredible scenes of the Chesapeake Bay as the sun sinks beneath the horizon. For wildlife aficionados, Kiptopeke State Park is a must-see area. This stunning park has miles of biking and hiking trails, as well as stellar birdwatching possibilities. Marvel at the yearly monarch butterfly migration, where thousands of these vivid critters traverse the park on their trail south. Bite into Cape Charles's spirited art world by exploring the area's galleries and attending live performances at the traditional Palace Theatre. With its easygoing atmosphere, enchanting scenery, and a range of summertime activities, Cape Charles comes alive during the summer months.

Smithfield

St Lukes Church and Cemetery in Smithfield Virginia

St Lukes Church and Cemetery in Smithfield Virginia

Positioned along the Pagan River, Smithfield is a vivid city renowned for its pretty allure and traditional appeal. The town's riverfront zone is the spirit and lifeblood of Smithfield, affording a captivating setting for unhurried saunters and riverside picnics. Windsor Castle Park, nestled on the edges of the river, accommodates a suitable site for exterior activities such as scaling, biking, and fishing. Smithfield's summer agenda is full event such as the well-known Smithfield Wine & Brew Fest, where sightseers can relish nearby wines, specialty lagers, and delectable nourishment. Art darlings will love the yearly Smithfield Arts Festival, which exhibits the works of capable district craftsmen. To experience Smithfield's rich history, explore the charming Historic District with its protected structures, for example, the 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse. Whether you're looking for a serene riverside retreat, a taste of localized flavors, or a venture into the past, Smithfield promises a remarkable summer experience.

Chincoteague

hincoteague Bay Waterfront, in Chincoteague Island, Virginia.
Chincoteague Bay Waterfront, in Chincoteague Island, Virginia.

Famous for its untrammeled splendor and feral ponies, Chincoteague Island is an idyllic haven for nature lovers. This captivating seaside hamlet is famous for its yearly Chincoteague Pony Swim, where undomesticated horses are propelled over the channel from Assateague Island to be sold. Observe this astounding event and explore the Assateague Island National Seashore, where you can glimpse a variety of wildlife, tread panoramic trails, and repose on unsullied beaches. Chincoteague also provides exceptional chances for sailing, fishing, and crabbing. Take a boat tour to uncover the gorgeous waterways, fens, and covert coves, or try your luck at snaring blue crabs in the shallow bays. Apart from its natural phenomena, Chincoteague boasts a vivacious art milieu. Visit the Island Theatre, a resuscitated Art Deco gem that accommodates live shows and film presentations. With its bewitching landscapes, particular wildlife, and cultural events, Chincoteague springs to life in the summer, furnishing a memorable experience for nature admirers and art connoisseurs alike.

Lexington

Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia

Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia

Perched in the core of the Shenandoah Valley, Lexington conveys long-standing grace and Southern style. Housed to two well-known universities, Washington and Lee University, and the Virginia Military Institute, the town boasts a substantial and traditional pedigree. The Virginia Military Institute Museum provides an intriguing look into the past of military education in the United States. Lexington's picturesque beauty radiates during the summer, with neighboring points of interest such as the Natural Bridge State Park. Check out the Natural Bridge, a geological marvel that towers over Cedar Creek. Take off on a trekking route to glance at spectacular vistas of the encompassing woodlands and uncover the Monacan Indian Village, a living history show. During the summer, Lexington coordinates the Lime Kiln Theater's "Music in the Mountains" show arrangement, where guests can relish live shows in a magnificent outdoor amphitheater snuggled in the timberland. With its medley of history, scenic wonders, and cultural offerings, Lexington is a mesmerizing destination that comes to life during summer.

Mathews

Farmers and Fishermen Building in Mathews Virgina
Farmers and Fishermen Building in Mathews Virgina - Barry Blackburn / Shutterstock.com

Enveloped by the Chesapeake Sea, Mathews is a wonderful secret affording a tranquil maritime holiday. This small hamlet is a paradise for sailing fanatics, with a great many marinas and gateways to enjoy the immaculate waters and beautiful shoreline. Embark on a sailing journey, have a go at angling, or unwind on the golden beaches. For natural-life devotees, New Point Comfort Lighthouse is a must-visit attraction. Take a saunter along the beachfront and marvel at this renowned beacon, which has been guiding navigators since the 1800s.

Throughout the summer, Mathews comes alive with public events, such as the Concerts by the Bay series, where you can appreciate live musical performances against the scenery of the Chesapeake Bay. Step away from the bustle and hustle of city life and submerge yourself in the maritime serenity of Mathews, where the magnificence of nature and the arts coalesce.

Damascus

The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail
The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail

Tucked away in the core of the Appalachian Mountains, Damascus is a paradise for thrill-seekers and explorers. Referred to as the "Trail Town," it is the passageway to many picturesque trails, including the esteemed Appalachian Trail, the Virginia Creeper Trail, and the Iron Mountain Trail. Bicycle riders gather in Damascus for the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile course that traverses through lovely scenery, including verdant woodlands, marvelous outlooks, and captivating creek-bordered villages. Engage a cycle and set out on an exciting downhill ride or hike alongside the trail to discern its natural beauty. The town is also famous for its yearly Trail Days celebration, which draws in hikers, thrill-seekers, and merchants from around the globe. Enjoy live music, workshops, gear displays, and delectable food as you submerge yourself in the vivacious outdoorsy community. With its gorgeous mountain scenery, esteemed trails, and effervescent outdoor culture, Damascus comes to life in the summer, inviting daredevils to start on remarkable adventures.

Abingdon

Martha Washington Inn in Abingdon, Virginia
Martha Washington Inn in Abingdon, Virginia

Steeped in antiquity and teeming with cultural delights, Abingdon is an alluring small city in Virginia. Have a retrograde as you peruse the Historical Quarters, decorated with conserved constructions from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Go to the iconic Barter Theatre, the state show of Virginia, where you can observe engaging live presentations. Abingdon is also renowned for the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile multi-use course that meanders through idyllic sceneries. Hire a cycle and set out on an unhurried sail, enjoying exquisite views of woodlands, farms, and rivers along the way. The municipality holds the celebrated Virginia Highlands Festival, a vivid festivity of artistry, music, and civilization. Absorb yourself in the merrymaking and have live performances, arts and crafts displays, and a wide selection of local food. Abingdon's abundant past, artistic sentiment, and outdoor escapades make it an attractive destination that comes to life in the summertime.

Wytheville

 Bolling Wilson boutique hotel in Wytheville Virginia
 Bolling Wilson boutique hotel in Wytheville Virginia - Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com

Tucked away at the intersection of Interstate 77 and 81, Wytheville serves as an entrance to the magnificent beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Nature fanatics will find a plethora of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, angling, and horse riding. Discover the Big Walker Lookout, a picturesque observation tower that provides panoramic views of the encompassing mountains and valleys. The village's old-fashioned downtown area emits Southern charisma, with its maintained buildings, charming stores, and regional restaurants. Explore the Wythe County Museum to probe into the area's past and learn about noteworthy persons like Edith Bolling Wilson, the wife of President Woodrow Wilson. Wytheville hosts the Chautauqua Festival, a summery celebration that includes live music, arts and crafts, and activities for the entire family. Do not miss the Big Walker Mountain Scenic Byway, an attractive drive through the mountains that displays stunning views and appealing communities. With its closeness to natural wonders, abundant history, and vivid community events, Wytheville is a small town that comes alive in the summer, providing a gateway to the beauty of the Blue Ridge.

Conclusion

In the heart of Virginia, these 8 small towns transmogrify into colorful havens in the summertime. Each hamlet prides itself on special geographical features, from maritime paradises and riverside appeal to mountain getaways and antiquated elegance. Tourists can submerge themselves in a copiousness of summer tasks and episodes that flaunt the individual character and temptation of these towns. Whether you search for a coastland respite, exterior excursions, cultural encounters, or a venture into antiquity, these minor towns have something to tender every sojourner. Begin a summer discovery of these secret gems and observe firsthand why these 8 small towns in Virginia come alive in Summer. Use the native beauty, involve in thrilling tasks, and construct durable memories in these entrancing towns that show the finest of Virginia's attraction and hospitality.

Share
  1. Home
  2. Places
  3. Cities
  4. These Small Towns in Virginia Come Alive in Summer

More in Places