Virginia draws in millions of visitors each year thanks to its stunning national parks, incredible museums and fascinating historic sites. But beyond the state's bigger cities like Richmond, Arlington and Norfolk, there are some ultra-pretty and quaint small towns that are well worth checking out. We’ve ranked the top 30, which we think are the most charming of them all.
Tucked between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Piedmont plateau, Bedford is a town that many visitors miss, but it’s filled to the brim with old-school charm. Be sure to visit the National D-Day Memorial, which pays a moving tribute to the Allied soldiers who lost their lives in the pivotal Second World War battle, plus the Bedford Boys Tribute Center, where you’ll find artefacts that belonged to them. Bedford also has a quaint Main Street, which is the perfect place for a shopping trip or leisurely afternoon stroll.
With two universities – Longwood University and Hampden-Sydney College – Farmville is a college town offering a great mix of historic attractions and outdoor activities. A central Virginian hub, straddling Prince Edward and Cumberland counties, the town is home to the scenic High Bridge (pictured), which stands 125 feet (38m) above the Appomattox River and attracts plenty of hikers and cyclists. There’s also a brilliant museum which tells the story of the 1951 Moton school strike, an early non-violent civil rights demonstration that took place in the town.
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Offering a stunning waterfront location overlooking the James River, Smithfield is a picturesque town with plenty of character. It happens to be the ham capital of the world thanks to the Smithfield pork product company that’s based here, and you’ll find meaty specialities at shops and restaurants all over the town. Don’t miss a visit to St Luke’s Historic Church & Museum (pictured), a 17th-century landmark which offers a fascinating insight into the last 400 years of history in the town.
If you’re after a Main Street filled with independent shops, restaurants and bars, Kilmarnock is the place to be. The characterful town, situated in northern Virginia near the Rappahannock River, is a hotspot for foodies. Try a burger that has been voted best in the state at NN Burger, enjoy local craft beers at Kilmarnock Brewhaus or sample one of the famous oyster po' boys at Car Wash Cafe. The town is also within easy reach of Virginia's top-notch beaches and scenic areas, such as Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve (pictured).
In the heart of the achingly beautiful Shenandoah Valley lies the laid-back city of Lexington, which oozes old-world charm. Its historic downtown is packed with buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, which today house fascinating museums, local boutiques and farm-to-table restaurants. Lexington is also the perfect base for exploring the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, as well as the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Outdoorsy types should make a beeline for Damascus. This pretty town is criss-crossed by a number of popular hiking paths, including the Appalachian, Virginia Creeper (pictured) and Iron Mountain Trails, which have earned it the nickname ‘Trail Town USA’. When it’s time to refuel there are lots of great food options, from casual but delicious dining at the Damascus Old Mill Inn to local ales and live music at the Damascus Brewery.
Located at the meeting point of two former railroads linking northern Virginia with Washington DC, the city of Manassas was founded in 1853. You only need to stroll through the picturesque Old Town to get a feel for the town's storied past, but if you’re after a little more of an insight be sure to check out the National Battlefield Park, which incorporates the sites of two prominent Civil War battles. The Manassas Railroad Depot (pictured), which discusses the city’s rail heritage, is another brilliant spot to add to your list.
This laid-back harbourside town offers great access to Chesapeake Bay, so it makes sense that kayaking, sailing and fishing are some of the most popular activities here. But Onancock has much more to offer besides, including a brilliant arts scene with plenty of pint-sized galleries and shops selling local crafts. There’s also a great petite cinema called the Roseland Theatre, which often shows international arthouse films.
The small and tight-knit community of South Boston is perfect for those seeking a relaxed base from which to explore southern Virginia. Sports fans should look no further than South Boston Speedway, a short racetrack which hosts regular NASCAR races. Along Main Street you’ll find a lovely selection of independent shops and eateries, from pizzerias to southern-style restaurants.
Among the most picturesque buildings in Warrenton is this 19th-century courthouse, built to replace an original structure dating back to 1795. Warrenton's Old Town is filled with fascinating historic architecture like this, including the Old Jail building and a Presbyterian church which served as a Civil War hospital. The town is also home to a long-running farmer's market and several brilliant pubs, which make it perfect for a weekend getaway.
Named after George Wythe, one of the Founding Fathers who signed the US Declaration of Independence, Wytheville is a small town with a unique place in the nation's history. Be sure to check out the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, which pays homage to the wife of President Woodrow Wilson, Edith Bolling Wilson, who served as First Lady between 1915 and 1921. Wytheville is ideally situated for exploring southwestern Virginia’s beguiling countryside, whether by mountain biking, kayaking or hiking.
Home to a population of just over a thousand, this dinky riverside town is a great base if you’re visiting northern Virginia. Occoquan started life in 1765, when the country’s first grist mill (used for grinding flour) was established here. Although the original mill was destroyed by fire in 1924, you can visit the pretty 18th-century Mill House Museum for a look into the town’s industrial heritage. It’s surrounded by the gorgeous River Mill Park, which offers great views across the Occoquan River.
Best known for the Luray Caverns – a network of caves which is among the largest in the eastern US – Luray has lots to offer besides incredible geology. Do schedule a visit to the eye-popping natural attraction while you’re there, but don’t miss out on the town’s unique shops, bars and restaurants. Triple Crown BBQ is a local favourite thanks to its homely local food, while the town’s second-hand stores and antiques shops are great places to find hidden treasures.
Tucked into the Appalachian Mountains of southwestern Virginia, Coeburn is a great town for exploring the great outdoors. Nearby, you’ll find the Little Stony National Recreation Trail, a picturesque route which takes in the Little Stony Falls, as well as the ultra-scenic High Knob Recreation Area, home to one of the region’s highest-altitude campgrounds. There’s also a racetrack which offers unique auto racing experiences at weekends if you’re after a thrilling day out.
Although less well-known than its musically-inclined New York counterpart, Woodstock, Virginia has plenty of historic charm too. A quick wander through downtown will reveal a wealth of cute cafés, homely southern-style restaurants, local breweries and award-winning wineries. To learn a little local history, make some time to pop into the volunteer-run Woodstock Museum, then take a look at the town’s 18th-century courthouse (pictured).
Situated in southwestern Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Abingdon provides the perfect mix of outdoor pursuits and cultural attractions. Its 20-block downtown is a recognised Virginia Historic Landmark and it’s home to a whole host of intriguing buildings – from an art gallery housed in a 19th-century rail station to a grand hotel dating back to 1832. It’s also one of the towns along the Crooked Road, a music trail showcasing the best of Virginia’s country music scene.
Well-placed for exploring both the Roanoke and Shenandoah valleys, Buchanan serves up a lovely small-town feel amid beautiful natural surroundings. Along Main Street you’ll find old storefronts decorated with hanging plants, where you can buy everything from art to antiques and collectibles, as well as great views of the James River. We’d also recommend exploring the epic US Bicentennial Bicycle Route which passes nearby.
It might be the smallest incorporated city in the Commonwealth of Virginia, but what Norton lacks in size it makes up for with a mix of enticing attractions. There are gorgeous natural spots such as Flag Rock Recreation Area and the Upper Norton Reservoir; family fun and games at the bowling alley and cinema; as well as great food options whether you fancy Mexican, pizza or classic American fare.
Located on an island of the same name just off Virginia’s eastern shore, Chincoteague is a pretty coastal town at the edge of the Atlantic. For outdoor adventures head to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to the region’s famous wild ponies, or look out for seabirds at Assateague Lighthouse. Other quintessential seaside activities here include digging for clams, saltwater fishing competitions and watching local oystermen at work along the shore.
With a convenient location just an hour’s drive from Washington DC, Clifton is a perfect day trip from the nation’s capital. Along Main Street there’s a great selection of antique shops and boutiques, including the eco-friendly Virginia Mercantile, plus lots of brilliant local eateries. Don’t miss a visit to the C&O Railway Heritage Center (pictured), which is housed inside a restored 1895 freight depot.
Tucked between the Rappahannock and Rapidan Rivers in north-central Virginia, Culpeper is as quaint as they come. Nearby, you’ll find fascinating Civil War battlefields to explore, as well as the stunning Piedmont ‘horse country’ which is perfect for hiking, horseback riding and other outdoor pursuits. In the town itself, there are plenty of historic homes and cute B&Bs, plus brilliant cultural attractions such as the Museum of Culpeper History.
Pictured here is the Red Fox Inn, a former fieldstone tavern and one of Middleburg’s oldest structures, dating back to 1728. Today, it’s a brilliant restaurant serving up traditional southern dishes, and it’s not the only historic spot here. Downtown, you’ll find chic boutiques, hotels and restaurants nestled behind characterful storefronts, while there are plenty of thoroughbred ponies in the surrounding countryside. In fact, Middleburg is the capital of America’s horse and hunt country, so stop by for an equestrian event if that’s your thing.
Situated in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Tazewell County has earned a reputation as the region’s adventure tourism capital. Here you can enjoy everything from the state’s longest, fastest and highest zipline to the hair-raising ‘Back of the Dragon’ motorbiking route, which features over 300 bends on just 11 short miles of road. In Tazewell town itself, you’ll find a characterful Main Street and plenty of fun seasonal events including Oktobrewfest, Christmas markets and summer festivals.
One of the larger towns on our list, Roanoke is great if you’re after a broad mix of things to see and do. Located on the southern side of the Shenandoah Valley, the city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with the brilliant (and free) Taubman Museum of Art plus plenty of public art throughout its streets. Don’t miss the famous Roanoke Star – the world’s largest free-standing illuminated star, which sits atop the Blue Ridge Mountains overlooking the city.
Approximately 150 people live in Monterey, but what this tiny town may lack in residents it more than makes up for in beauty. Tucked amid the rolling hills of Highland County – a region nicknamed ‘Virginia’s Little Switzerland’ – the town is surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain scenery. Make the most of it by staying in an authentic log cabin such as the Blue Grass Cabin and be sure to enjoy homely food at one of the region’s diners, including The Curly Maple and High’s Restaurant.
You need only head into Leesburg’s bustling downtown to see its enduring appeal, with a smattering of independent shops, breweries, cafés and street food stalls. The lively town, located at the base of Catoctin Mountain, has a fascinating past too. It’s home to a number of heritage sites, including the 18th-century Morven Park mansion; the George C. Marshall International Center, which was home to former Secretary of State George Marshall; and Ball's Bluff Battlefield, where an important Civil War battle took place in 1861.
Boasting a gorgeous location in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton has it all: stunning views, a great arts and culture scene and plenty of historic buildings. Its Main Street oozes small-town charm, with 80 speciality shops and 30 restaurants to check out, with menus ranging from Mediterranean fare to fusion food and casual dining. There’s also a brilliant farmer’s market every Saturday from April to November, which sees the street come to life with a bustle of traders and stalls.
If you’re after a dreamy beach town with a laid-back vibe, look no further than Cape Charles. Situated on Virginia’s eastern shore, it’s home to a wooden fishing pier, a historic district dating to the late-19th century and a pristine sandy beach lapped by clear, calm waters. Many visitors choose to enjoy watersports, hiking and boating here. But there’s plenty to do in town too, with a selection of boutiques selling local arts and crafts, plus several period homes to wander around.
Frequently voted one of America’s best cities, Alexandria draws in visitors with its beautiful, pedestrian-friendly streets and close community feel. Located just seven miles (11km) outside of Washington DC, it’s a popular day trip from the nation’s capital. Be sure to take a stroll around the nationally-designated historic district, which dates back to the town's founding in 1749. Also, stop into independent shops and eateries such as brunch hotspot Del Ray Cafe and seafood restaurant The Wharf. If you’d prefer to see things from the water, enjoy one of several brilliant sightseeing cruises.
Winning our crown for the most beautiful town in Virginia is Lynchburg, located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city is undeniably lovely to look at, with its leafy streets and historic architecture, plus there’s plenty to keep you occupied for a weekend break here. In the local area you’ll find more than 40 miles (64km) of walking trails to explore, as well as cosy coffee shops and top-notch restaurants such as seasonally-inspired RA Bistro. The city is also known for its vibrant murals and lively community market, which dates back to 1783.