There's just something about small towns. Is there any better feeling in the world than meandering through a beautiful town square and passing a friendly face who greets you by name? It's the ultimate perk of living in a small town, where just about everyone is your neighbor. Here are some examples of such places in Virginia where you'll feel right at home. Even if you're just visiting for a day, you're sure to be welcomed in true small-town Virginia fashion.
1. Kilmarnock
Kilmarnock is a walker-friendly town located close to the Rappahannock River and the Potomac. The Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail is also just a few miles away. This small town is known for its boutique shopping, local dining, and river-lovin' folk.
2. Luray
Luray might be a small town, but the opportunity for adventure here is nothing to scoff at. A visit to Luray means exploring on every level: mountains, rivers, and even underground. Most know Luray for the famous Luray caverns, but the town itself has live music, a local winery, and even a hotel from the Jazz era.
3. Orange
One of the most distinctive features of Orange is the Historic Orange Train Station situated right on Main Street. Orange also has the first museum to commemorate the Father of the Constitution, the James Madison Museum.
4. Smithfield
Smithfield is located in Isle of Wright County and is only about 10.1 square miles in size. This picturesque town has been recognized as one of "Prettiest Painted Places in America." Don't forget to stop by the Smithfield Inn for a famous ham biscuit!
5. Woodstock
Woodstock can be found in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and is the fourth-oldest town in Virginia. In fact, the county courthouse was designed by Thomas Jefferson. Admiring these historic homes and churches will make for a perfect stroll.
6. Floyd
Floyd is a haven for music lovers. Homemade meals, porch-pickin', and handmade crafts are just some of the wonderful features of this friendly town. Be sure to stop by on the weekend for the Floyd County Store's Friday Night Jamboree. This is where all the fun and boot-stomping happens.
7. Galax
As you might have guessed from the welcome sign, Galax is a small town that values the true roots of mountain music. This is where the world's oldest Fiddler's Convention is held. It's a great stop for a specialty coffee or ice cream treat, too.
8. Martinsville
Martinsville may be primarily known for its NASCAR Speedway track, but this small town has even more to offer. You'll find a delightful artisan community here, with the murals to prove it. One of the best ways to get to know this small town and its friendly people is to use its free bike rental system and cruise around.
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9. Middleburg
With its green rolling hills and stone or brick architecture, Middleburg is a lovely town. This area is known for the abundance of boutique shopping. Jackie Onassis even did a little shopping here, at a store called Lou Lou Too. Middleburg also has five different wineries to explore. It's a sophisticated kind of small-town living around here.
10. Winchester
Winchester is the "Apple Capital of the World," and you won't soon forget it after stopping by and trying some local products. The pedestrian mall makes for a great stroll and also has wonderful dining options along the way. Winchester is also home to the famous Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival.
11. Bristol
Bristol is another small town with a big music scene in Virginia. The town is a designated Arts & Entertainment district and boasts live dances, theatre performances, and art shows in addition to some down-home country music. It's a fitting introduction to Tennessee, as it sits right on the border between states.
Which small towns in Virginia make you feel most at home? Let us know!
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