These 8 Virginia Towns Have The Best Historic Districts
Virginia is one of the most historically rich states in the union, and a history buff could spend a lifetime here without running out of places to explore. Along with some of the nation's earliest settlements, Virginia is also the birthplace of more U.S. presidents than any other state, extending its historical reach. Preservation efforts throughout this region are impressive, and some, such as Colonial Williamsburg, are living history museums.
These eight towns boast the best historic districts due to their diversity, which is often palpable and visible. Staunton is one such time-honored hamlet, known for its stunning structures and other must-see attractions. If a walk through history is on your destination list, these eight towns need to be near the top. As America reaches its 250th anniversary, it is an excellent time to visit destinations like Yorktown and Williamsburg, as each will have its own unique celebration of America's independence.
Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a historic island renowned for its wild horses, which roam freely in the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. It also has a fascinating historic district that centers around Main Street. One of the best ways to explore this unique heritage is by taking the 1.5-hour town walking tour. Or, for the more adventurous, register for a ghost tour with Chincoteague Step Through Time Tours. Walking down historic Main Street feels like slipping back into another time, filled with local shops and restaurants. At the end is Downtown Riverfront Park, where you can stroll the paverstones and stop for a breezy respite. This is one of the more unique heritage towns in Virginia, blending salty breezes and a laidback atmosphere with the historic sites that should not be missed.
Williamsburg
Williamsburg is part of Virginia's historic triangle, along with the Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown. The trio comprises one of the state's largest historical regions and is one of the most popular destinations to visit. The district is a living history museum with numerous recreations and galleries that allow visitors to walk in the footsteps of the earliest colonists. Colonial Williamsburg is the focal point of the area, which features recreations of 18th-century Williamsburg and boasts over 80 original structures to explore. Buildings include the Governor's Palace and the Courthouse in addition to hundreds of recreated structures. This is truly a walk through time and one of he best overall destinations to visit in Virginia.
Yorktown
Yorktown is where George Washington held off British forces, marking the end of the Revolutionary War. Walk in the footsteps of America's first President and rediscover this momentous event at the American Revolution Museum and the Yorktown Battlefield. Walking through these sites can leave you speechless as you immerse yourself in the troves of historical moments that took place here, and still resonate through time. The waterfront is another common walking space, with modern boutiques and restaurants. However, it is also home to a museum showcasing another side of Yorktown, the Waterman's Museum. The exhibits and gallery tell the tale of Chesapeake Bay's rich maritime history and how it sustained the colony economically for many years.
Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is a historic town situated on the storied Rappahannock River, renowned for its rich Colonial and Civil War history. Its rich history can be seen and felt all through the area, especially at the four battlefields of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park. Another landmark among many is the George Washington Ferry Farm, where the future general and president spent his formative years. The grounds are open to the public and feature several unique areas to explore. Among these is the Archaeological Lab, where visitors learn about the significance of the artifacts found here. There are as many culinary delights in this historic area as there are sites to see, so bring your appetite and curiosity to one of Virginia's most storied districts.
Lexington
Historic Downtown Lexington is listed on the Virginia and National Registers of Historic Places due to its rich mix of commercial and residential areas. Notable structures include the Lexington Presbyterian Church, designed by Thomas U. Walter, who also designed the US Capitol dome. You can also visit the former Rockbridge County Jail, now the national headquarters of Kappa Alpha. The 1896 First Baptist Church is another beautiful downtown structure that stands like a beacon overlooking the district. The delightful district boasts a unique atmosphere, combining modern conveniences with heritage sites. The compact streets, brick architecture, and hometown feel are what make this historic district stand out among others. It is also the gateway to the Shenandoah Valley, making it a convenient spot to stop if you are driving in the area.
Staunton
Staunton's historic Main Street area is characterized by its stunning brick structures and small-town feel. One such structure is the Trinity Episcopal Church, featuring stained glass windows and a quiet elegance that sets it apart from the other buildings. There are five historic districts to explore, including the Wharf District, home to the CNO Train Station, which provides another glimpse at the storied past of Staunton. The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Museum explores the life and legacy of one of America's most influential presidents. Visit the house where he was born, his Pierce Arrow limousine, and many other heritage sites that celebrate the life of Staunton's most famous resident. Another aspect of historic Main Street is the friendliness of the community, which makes every visitor feel like they're visiting their hometown.
Charlottesville
Charlottesville is famously home to the University of Virginia and its stunning historic district. The brick-lined roads are lined by elegant brick buildings, which blend well with the academic air the university lends to the district. The Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall is a popular stop for many. It features a mix of new and restored buildings, along with over 150 shops and restaurants, offering a unique way to experience the town's cultural heritage. The historic area centers around the Court Square, which was home to the city's first taverns. These taverns were frequented by notable figures such as Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe. Explore this area with a guided walking tour hosted by the Albemarle County Historical Society to capture the fascinating heritage of this communal meeting spot. Don't forget to catch a movie at the Paramount Theater downtown, which is denoted by its art deco neon sign, adding another layer of charm to the area.
Winchester
Historic Winchester was founded in 1744 and has the distinction of being Virginia's oldest city west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The historic district, known as Old Town, was a vital commercial hub for over 250 years and is part of a 45-block area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stop at the Loudon Street Pedestrian Mall to visit the history and browse the many shops. The brick walkways wind past many museums and galleries that showcase the unique history of this town, which is over 300 years old. The Old Courthouse Civil War Museum, located on Loudon Street, is a stunning brick structure that was built in 1840 to serve the community but was later converted into a hospital and prison during the Civil War. This is a genuinely remarkable hamlet that one could spend days exploring, making it one of the best districts to visit in Virginia.
If American history is your thing, you cannot go wrong planning a trip to Virginia. It is one of the most significant states in the union, and the vast amount of its heritage sites is simply breathtaking. From the historic triangle, where virtually every area is a living history museum, to the architectural significance of Staunton, these eight towns are among the best to visit in the state of Virginia.
Tracing the paths of U.S. presidents born here is another unique angle to pursue, and much of this past has been preserved. Each of these historic districts has something unique to offer, but they share a common passion for sharing local knowledge with others. Whether flying in for a weekend jaunt or taking a scenic road trip, make sure these towns are on your travel calendar.
