15 Best Small Towns in Virginia That You Need to Visit
Ready to uncover some of the most charming small towns in Virginia? From iconic heritage sites to scenic trails winding through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia is ripe for exploration.
It’s time to take the road less traveled, where tree-lined byways lead to cozy main streets, local shops, and warm hospitality. These small-town gems offer the perfect escape from the city, each with its own unique story to tell.
Planning a weekend getaway or simply craving a new adventure close to home? Then don’t miss what I consider to be the best small towns in Virginia.
From the Atlantic Ocean to the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Here are 15 small towns in Virginia that belong on your travel list.
1. Williamsburg
Welcome to the “colonial capital” of Virginia. Don’t miss exploring the beautiful historic town of Williamsburg. Known for its living history, thrilling theme parks, botanical gardens, and parks.
Colonial Williamsburg
Step back in time as you stroll through the charming streets of Colonial Williamsburg, the town’s historic downtown.
This immersive living history museum brings the 18th century to life with beautifully preserved buildings, heritage gardens, and skilled tradespeople demonstrating traditional crafts like blacksmithing and weaving.
Busch Gardens
Williamsburg isn’t just about the past. For those craving a dose of adrenaline, be sure to spend a day at Busch Gardens, Virginia’s best theme park, filled with the best jaw-dropping rides, attractions, wildlife encounters and more.
Historic Jamestown Settlement
Just a short drive away, explore the roots of America at Historic Jamestown, the original site of the first permanent English settlement. Explore Jamestown Settlement a living history museum with replica ships, a recreated fort and engaging exhibits that dive deep into early colonial life.
Williamsburg Winery
Take a break from the history and theme parks with a scenic escape to Williamsburg Winery. Enjoy tastings of award-winning wines, vineyard tours, and gourmet dining at the onsite café or upscale Gabriel Archer Tavern.
Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking to unwind amid lush gardens and wineries, Williamsburg offers something for every kind of traveler.
2. Jamestown
A trip to Williamsburg isn’t complete without a quick stopover in Jamestown. Packed full of history, Jamestown is home to the first English settlement in North America.
Founded in 1607, this historic small town is a cornerstone of U.S. history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the early days of colonial America.
Jamestown Settlement
Wander and explore the Jamestown History Museum where you can explore life in the early 1600s. The outdoor living history museum features recreations of the Powhatan Indian village and English fortifications as well as replicas of the Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery ships.
Historic Jamestown Island
Explore Jamestown Island, a beautiful mix of history and nature. Discover the many nature trails, go birdwatching, or visit the James River for a calm day outdoors.
First Landing State Park
Just a short drive from Jamestown, First Landing State Park is a beautiful area where settlers are believed to have first landed before heading to Jamestown. It’s a popular spot for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the diverse ecosystem of the Chesapeake Bay.
Jamestown is certainly a landmark destination that is rich in history and offers a unique opportunity to connect with America’s past.
3. Roanoke
Mill Mountain Star and Park
Roanoke is a beautiful small town just southwest of Virginia. Best known for its iconic Mill Mountain Star, a glowing neon sign perched high at the summit of Mill Mountain, overlooking the town below.
For sweeping views and a peaceful escape into nature, Mill Mountain Trail is a local favorite. A must-do walking trail for hikers, photographers, and anyone craving a dose of mountain air.
Downtown Roanoke
Roanoke’s walkable downtown area is filled with cozy cafes, specialty shops, art galleries and museums. Art lovers will adore the stunning Taubman Museum of Art. For something unique, explore the Virginia Museum of Transportation, home to vintage trains, classic cars, and aviation displays.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Nature lovers will fall head over heels for Roanoke’s easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering outdoor activities with mountain vistas that feel like they’re out of a postcard. Autumn is also my favorite time to visit – the fresh crisp air, changing of leaves throughout the parkway, and rolling landscapes make it an ideal time to visit.
If you’re craving a seasonal treat, head to one of the nearby orchards for apple picking, or spend an afternoon sipping local wine at Peaks of Otter Winery and Orchard, just a short drive from the parkway.
Roanoke is the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem, perfect for a relaxed weekend escape.
4. Lexington
Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Lexington, Virginia, is a picturesque town with historical significance, character, and small-town charm.
Washington and Lee University
Lexington is a college town and home to Washington and Lee University, a small liberal arts university. It’s also home to the Lee Chapel and Museum, built by Robert E. Lee, an American Confederate general and former president of the school.
Stonewall Jackson House
Step back in time with a visit to the preserved former home of Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson. Now a curated museum, the home offers guided tours that provide a deeper look into Jackson’s personal life.
The Stonewall Jackson House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a part of the Lexington Historic District.
Devil’s Backbone Brewery Outpost Taproom and Kitchen
Just outside of Lexington is the Devil’s Backbone Brewery Outpost. The brewery is part of the well-known Devils Backbone Brewing Company, one of Virginia’s iconic craft breweries, and it’s here at the Outpost where you can sample a wide selection of their finest brews.
Miller’s House Museum
Discover local history at the beautifully restored Millers House. The museum offers insight into life along the James River and Kanawha Canal during the region’s early industrial era. A great place for those interested in historic buildings, architecture, or local craftsmanship.
Lexington is a great little town for a quiet weekend escape or a scenic stop along your Virginia road trip.
5. Harrisonburg
Downtown Harrisonburg
Surrounded by the hills of the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is one of those small, pleasant towns you need to visit.
Wander through Harrisonburg’s streets lined with antique shops, art galleries and cozy cafés. Don’t miss the Harrisonburg Farmers Market, one of the town’s major highlights.
White Oak Lavender Farm
I highly recommend kicking off the weekend lavender picking at the White Oak Lavender Farm and Purple Wolf Vineyard. A beautiful family-owned farm featuring over 6000 lavender plants. Shop the farm’s handmade products, such as soaps, lotions, and essential oils, all made from pure lavender.
James Madison University Mineral Museum
Dive into the fascinating world of geology at this small but impressive mineral museum, home to a stunning collection of minerals, fossils, and gems. This museum is located within the James Madison University campus.
Luray Caverns
Loacted 40 minutes outside of Harrisonburg is one of Virginia’s natural wonders, the Luray Caverns. The caverns showcase towering rock chambers, shimmering underground lakes, and some of the most intricate rock formations you’ll ever see.
6. Staunton
Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains, Staunton (pronounced STAN-ton) is one of Virginia’s most charming small towns and is known for its thriving food scene.
It was founded in 1747 and is considered one of the oldest towns in the Shenandoah Valley.
American Shakespeare Center – Blackfriars Playhouse
Catch a live theater performance at the only replica of Shakespeare’s original indoor theatre the Blackfriars Playhouse. It’s a must-do for theatre lovers.
Downtown Staunton
Staunton has a hot reputation for its local food. Be sure to check out top restaurants like Wright’s Dairy-Rite, Taste of India, Chicano Boy Tacos, and The Split Banana.
Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive
Located just a few minutes from Staunton, Shenandoah National Park offers breathtaking sceneries, picturesque overlooks, and miles of hiking trails along Skyline Drive.
It’s the perfect day trip for outdoor adventures and scenic drives. My favorite highlights of the park include Stony Man Overlook and Bearfence Rock Scramble.
Appalachian Trail
Shenandoah National Park is also home to the famous Appalachian Trail.
Sections of the trail that run through Shenandoah National Park are considered one of the most scenic and accessible stretches of the entire 2,190+ mile trail. The trail also follows closely alongside Skyline Drive, so it’s easy to access from many overlooks, trailheads, and visitor centers.
Accessing the famous trail at various access points in the park is super ideal if you want to tackle parts of the trail without committing to the full trek.
Read More
Weekend Guide to Staunton, Virginia
7. Culpeper
Culpeper boasts a rich Civil War heritage and a thriving downtown district. It was declared the “Prettiest small town in Virginia” by Architectural Digest and it’s not hard to see why.
Wineries and Breweries
This cute little town is home to some of the best wineries and breweries around, including Mountian Run Winery, Old House Vineyards, and a small local Moonshine Distillery called Belmont Farm Distillery.
For the ultimate beer lover, visit local breweries like Far Gohn Brewing Company and Beer Hound Brewery for some unique brews.
Downtown Culpeper
Its historic main street is also lined with cozy cafés, quaint shops, and farm-to-table restaurants. It’s the perfect blend of heritage charm and hospitality.
Culpeper is certainly one of those charming small towns in Virginia you won’t want to miss!
8. Charlottesville
Charlottesville, also known to many as C’ville, is the gateway to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s the perfect destination that offers just about everything, from rich history to scenic vineyards, and mountain trails.
Thomas Jeffersons Monticello
Charlottesville was the home of two former U.S. Presidents, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe during their presidential terms.
The famous Monticello plantation, which was the home to Thomas Jefferson, is now a national landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Jefferson’s life and the complex history of early America, including the legacy of slavery.
University of Virginia
The University of Virginia, also designed by Jefferson, is another town highlight offering free daily tours of the school grounds. Explore the iconic rotunda – the campus centerpiece and focal point located at the head of the lawn.
9. Hot Springs
Hot Springs is a place of tranquility and relaxation! Located in the county of Bath, Hot Springs is best known for its natural mineral springs and luxe resort, the Omni Homestead Resort & Spa.
Natural Mineral Springs
Travelers from all over come to soak in the many healing waters at Hot Springs. The most iconic bathing spot is the Warm Springs Pools, also known historically as the Jefferson Pools, located near the Omni Homestead Resort.
These historic bathhouses, originally built in 1761, are some of the oldest spa establishments in the region.
Omni Homestead Resort and Spa
A luxury resort featuring world-class golf, exceptional dining, and one of the oldest alpine ski resorts in the United States.
The resort offers 483 guest rooms and suites, along with two championship golf courses, a luxury spa and salon, an outdoor pool with a lazy river, and two water slides.
Over the decades, this historic hotel has hosted many American presidents and royals, including Thomas Jefferson and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.
Hots Springs is truly a peaceful mountain retreat and one of my all-time favorite small towns in Virginia.
10. Chincoteague Island
Located along Virginia’s Eastern Shore is a quaint little beach town called Chincoteague Island loacted just off Assateague Island. It’s mostly known for its national wildlife, clams, and oyster beds, but what makes this Virginia coastal town stand out most is its famous wild horses.
Chincoteague Island Ponies
Chincoteague’s wild ponies are so common that the Chincoteague Fire Department holds a special event called the “Pony Swim.”
They round up about 200 ponies from Assateague Island and lead them through the Assateague Channel onto Chincoteague Island. This unique event is held annually in July and is totally worth checking out.
Assateague Lighthouse
A striking symbol of the Eastern Shore’s maritime history. This red-and-white-striped lighthouse offers panoramic views of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and the surrounding barrier islands.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife and a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. It may be best known for its wild ponies however, it’s also home to a diverse range of bird species, marshlands, and nature trails perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Chincoteague offers a mix of sandy beaches, scenic landscapes, and stunning sunsets – an ideal coastal escape for every kind of traveler.
11. Abingdon
Abingdon is a charming town known for its artsy vibe and small-town charm. It’s one of those quaint small towns you just have to visit.
Virginia Creeper Trail
One of Abingdon’s most iconic outdoor attractions, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a must-do when visiting. This scenic trail stretches 34 miles through beautiful countryside, starting at Abingdon and ending at Whitetop Station near the North Carolina border.
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a quintessential Abingdon experience and a beautiful way to connect with the natural beauty of Southwest Virginia.
If you’re looking to explore more off-beaten tracks, be sure to check out spots like Backbone Rock, a rock tunnel that was blasted through to make way for a railway, or Hidden Valley Lake, a large lake located atop the mountains at around 3,500 feet.
Barter Theatre
Considered one of the oldest and most respected professional theaters in the country. Barter Theatre offers a full season of productions ranging from Broadway-style musicals and classic plays to modern dramas and family-friendly performances.
Just a short 43-minute drive from Chincoteague is one of the coolest small towns in Virginia called Onancock. With its welcoming community, Onancock is the perfect small-town escape.
Onancock Wharf
Head down to the picturesque wharf, where you can watch the boats come in or take a relaxing stroll along the waterfront. One of the best things to do in Onancock is to get out on the water, hire a kayak or paddleboard for the day and visit the local wineries, or jump aboard a boat tour to the surrounding islands.
Tangier Island
Jump on a boat tour to the nearby Tangier Island, this charming island is famous for its unique watermen culture and stunning landscapes. The island’s simplicity and beauty are what make it such a special place to visit.
13. Natural Bridge
At first glance, Natural Bridge might seem like one of those quiet small towns with not much to offer. But its top attractions are tucked away in unexpected corners, so much so that you might not even realize they’re there until you stumble upon them.
Natural Bridge is home to two major attractions, the Caverns at Natural Bridge and the Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia’s newest park featuring a 90-foot limestone arch formation.
Spend the weekend exploring the Caverns at Natural Bridge and the iconic rock arch, soaking in both underground wonders and stunning outdoor views.
Natural Bridge State Park
Home to the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge, a 215-foot high limestone arch, one of Virginia’s most iconic natural landmarks. Explore the hiking trails, take in the natural beauty, and learn about the history that once captivated visitors like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
Caverns at Natural Bridge
Explore the deep underground caverns and view the many rock formations with unique features. Wander through the twisting passageways, where you’ll encounter stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological wonders.
14. Bristol
Surrounded by the South Huston Lake on one side and Holston River on the other resides a small town called Bristol. Also known as “The Birthplace of Country Music”
Now, you might argue that Bristol is actually in Tennessee, but in fact, the town sits on the state line between Virginia and Tennessee. So you have Bristol, Virginia, and Bristol, Tennessee, both of which are the same town, which is pretty cool.
Downtown Bristol
Start your day by exploring Bristol’s lively downtown area. Hit the town’s highlights like State Street with the town’s iconic double yellow state lines and the historic Bristol sign, which has been around since 1915.
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Head on over to the Paramount Center for the Arts, where you will find The Birthplace of Country Museum. Discover the roots of country music and the impact it had on the world. A must-see for die-hard country music fans!
15. Covington
Covington is a nature lover’s escape! The town was named after General Leonard Covington, a United States Army General and former United States Representative from the 1800s.
Spend the day exploring the many nature trails and waterfalls, such as the Falling Springs Waterfall and the Jackson River Scenic Trail.
Humpback Bridge
Don’t miss Humpback Bridge. It’s an old wooden bridge that was built back in 1857 and is now the only covered bridge remaining in the United States. The best time to visit the bridge is in the fall, it looks incredible among the autumn leaves.
Fun fact! Several key scenes from the 2012 movie “Lawless”, starring Tom Hardy, Shia LaBeouf, and Gary Oldman, were filmed at Covington Bridge.
One memorable moment is the intense scene towards the end of the film, where Guy Pearce’s character is shot and killed, with the bridge adding to the dark, tense atmosphere of the scene.
Falling Springs Waterfall
Another one of Virginia’s hidden natural treasures. Located just outside of Covington, Falling Springs Waterfall is a beautiful 80-foot waterfall that cascades dramatically over a rocky cliff, creating a sight that feels like something out of a storybook.
Hiking to the waterfall is very short, taking only about 5-10 minutes.
If hiking isn’t your thing, the waterfalls viewing platform is a great spot if you want to see the waterfall with minimal effort.
Covington Farmers Market
Visit the Covington Farmers Market for fresh produce and locally crafted goods, every Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm at North Columbia Street.
If you know of any other charming towns in Virginia that should be added to this list, let me know in the comments below!
I’ve called Virginia home for five years now, and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to discover these beautiful, one-of-a-kind small towns along the way.
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