This Small West Virginia Town Has The Best Downtown

Lewisburg, WV, has become one of the most notable towns in the Mountain State for its welcoming, historic downtown, which draws visitors to Greenbrier County. Both the state and the country have recognized the historic value of Lewisburg’s downtown, and its walkable layout and concentration of local businesses make it a place where people can spend several days appreciating the town’s offerings.

Much of that experience centers on Washington Street, the district’s core, which ties the community together with its 19th-century structures now housing independent shops and restaurants. This downtown area remains a defining feature of the town, and many visitors find themselves lingering longer than planned.

A Downtown Defined by Its History

The historical significance of Lewisburg’s downtown is evident in its architecture. Many of the buildings lining Washington Street were built in the mid-1800s and continue to serve as the foundation for modern businesses, boutiques, and restaurants that have moved in over the years.

Because the entire district is recognized and protected by the National Register of Historic Places, restoration and refurbishment have taken priority over new construction. This approach has allowed the downtown to retain its original layout and building stock while remaining functional for contemporary use.

Taking the Time to Explore Independent Stores Downtown

Local businesses are interwoven into the downtown area, adding to the historic value and the overall appeal of the community and its offerings. The Washington St. Gallery stands out as a prominent fixture, serving as part of the regional arts scene for creators in Greenbrier County and beyond. It is housed in one of the refurbished 19th-century buildings along the main thoroughfare and features fine art, including paintings, ceramics, and handmade furniture.

Specialty stores are common throughout the downtown, contributing to its boutique shopping experience. Yarid’s Shoes is one such example, a store that has operated here for decades and is known primarily for its wide range of shoes and fine footwear. In recent years, the storefront has expanded into related offerings such as purses and clothing.

Bella The Corner Gourmet sits at the intersection of dining and retail, offering a selection of specialty foods and baked goods suited for browsing between stops. The store also carries a variety of kitchen gadgets and niche items, balancing practical tools with decorative pieces.

Local Restaurants You Should Sample

You can only shop for so long before working up an appetite, and the downtown area of Lewisburg offers a range of options. For visitors with limited time, one of the district’s most popular eateries is The Humble Tomato. Located in one of the area’s historic structures, the Italian restaurant serves traditional pasta and other dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Outdoor garden patio seating is also available.

Stardust Café provides another example of a historic building adapted for modern use. Originally opened as a small coffee shop serving beverages and baked goods, the restaurant has evolved into a fine-dining establishment. It now operates out of a restored former Clingman’s Market and offers a menu that includes dishes such as orchard duck breast and seared sesame tuna.

The Festivals that Liven Up the Downtown Even More

While the downtown area of Lewisburg sees steady activity throughout the year, festivals and events bring larger crowds at once. Taste of Our Towns, held each October, transforms Washington, Court, and Church Streets into a collection of food vendors offering small bites, desserts, snacks, and artisan crafts. Live music and entertainment take place throughout the day, drawing attention to the full stretch of the downtown corridor.

Another annual event takes place in early August with the Lewisburg Literary Festival. The festival uses the city’s performance spaces, venues, and bookstores for readings and workshops. Spanning two days, it features nationally known authors alongside writers from Greenbrier County and across West Virginia.

Lewisburg Sets a Standard for Downtown Preservation

Lewisburg stands out as one of the most historically preserved and active downtowns in West Virginia. Long-standing retailers continue to meet a wide range of shopping needs, while dining options span from casual meals to fine dining, all concentrated along Washington Street. The downtown’s walkable layout supports extended visits and encourages exploration of its businesses and public spaces. Events such as Taste of Our Towns further reinforce the role of the downtown as a central gathering place within the community.