If you’re looking for a summer getaway that’s off the beaten path, consider visiting one of these charming small towns in Virginia. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the beaches on the Eastern Shore, Virginia is home to some wonderful and unique small towns.
Each town has its own personality and attractions that make it worth a visit. Here are 5 of our favorites!
1. Kilmarnock
Kilmarnock is a tiny town in Lancaster and Northumberland Counties, Virginia, on the Rappahannock River, with a population of around 1,500 people.
The Lancaster Historical Society and the 18th-century Christ Church & Museum are two additional popular things to do in Kilmarnock. Hiking on the Hughlett Point Trail, which is not far from the beach and town, is another option.
The Kilmarnock Town Centre Park, which offers an outdoor stage for concerts, an open-air gym, and beautiful gardens, is one of the most popular locations to visit in Kilmarnock.
This little Virginia village is also close to Westmoreland State Park and George Washington’s birthplace. Surprisingly, there is a great tiny wine scene in this area!
2. Cape Charles
Cape Charles is a small town on Virginia’s Eastern Shore with a population of just over 900 people. The town is located on the Chesapeake Bay and boasts miles of pristine beaches.
When you visit Cape Charles, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, transported to the 1880s when the railroad and ferry industries were thriving. Many 19th-century traditional homes and cottages abound in Cape Charles; you may even hire one if you’re seeking for lodging in Cape Charles and stay right on the bay.
Apart from excellent accommodations and tranquil views, Cape Charles offers a variety of activities, including a visit to the Cape Charles Museum and Welcome Center, where you can learn about the town’s history, see vintage engines, and more. Golf courses, state parks, swimming, and a variety of other activities are also nearby.
3. Woodstock
Woodstock is a small town in Shenandoah County, Virginia, with a population of around 600 people.
The well-preserved small town was founded in 1761 and is known for its unique architecture, including the Christ Episcopal Church, which was built in 1793 and is the oldest church in continuous use in Virginia. The Woodstock Town Hall, which was built in 1849 and is now a museum, is also worth a visit.
In addition to its historical charm, Woodstock is also known for its arts and crafts scene. The town has several galleries and studios where you can find everything from pottery to paintings. There are also several farmer’s markets in the area, as well as wineries and breweries. Hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities are also popular in Woodstock.
4. Onancock
Onancock is a small town on Virginia’s Eastern Shore with a population of just over 800 people. The town, which is located on the Chesapeake Bay, was founded in 1680 and is one of the oldest towns in Virginia.
Onancock has a number of interesting historical sites, including the Onancock School Museum (the oldest one-room schoolhouse in Virginia) and the Christ Church. The town also has a number of galleries, shops, and restaurants. You can also find kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the area.
5. Farmville
Farmville is a small town in Prince Edward County, Virginia, with a population of around 8000 people. The town was founded in 1798 and is known for its antebellum architecture.
Some of the most popular attractions in Farmville include the Longwood University Art Gallery, the Hampden-Sydney College Museum of Fine Arts, and the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. The town also has a number of shops and restaurants. You can also find golfing, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the area.
These are just a few of the many charming small towns in Virginia that are worth visiting this summer. Each of these towns has its own unique history and attractions that make it worth a visit. So if you’re looking for a change of scenery, or want to explore some of Virginia’s history, be sure to visit one of these small towns.
Featured Image Credit: My Community
