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Abingdon, Virginia: Where Fun Meets Adventure – The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

Holston Mountain Artisans comes first, because over 100 local artists in one co-op is a working scene rather than a gift shop. The William King Museum of Art ranks next, for the emerging work in its Appalachian Artists Collective. The Arts Depot sits alongside both. Its studios and workshops are where the making actually happens. White’s Mill has the antiques. The Barter Theatre stands on its own, because a playhouse that once took produce as payment is its own kind of craft.

Looking for a fun and exciting getaway? Abingdon, Virginia is the answer. This charming town sits in the Blue Ridge Mountains and runs activities and attractions enough to hold visitors of every age and interest.

History buff, serious eater, art lover or outdoor enthusiast, Abingdon has your version of the trip. The town’s history is held in its many historic landmarks and museums. The local cuisine is served across its restaurants and cafes. The thriving arts scene runs galleries, studios and theaters showing the work of local artists and performers. For adventure, outdoor recreation here covers hiking and biking through to fishing and kayaking.

What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Abingdon, Virginia for a vacation you will not forget.

Historical Highlights of Abingdon

Abingdon, Virginia is a town steeped in history and the historical highlights are worth the walk. Here are three spots to make time for:

Sinking Spring Cemetery

Sinking Spring Cemetery dates back to 1773. Many of Abingdon’s earliest settlers are buried here. The records held on the site cover the town from the Civil War to the present day. The setting is quiet. It is a place to reflect on the past.

Abingdon Muster Grounds

The Abingdon Muster Grounds is the other historical site to make time for. The Virginia militia gathered on this spot in 1780 to fight the British during the Revolutionary War. The grounds are open, and the history of the militia and the part they played in the war is told there. A reenactment turns up if you are lucky.

Martha Washington Inn & Spa

For a historical place to stay, the Martha Washington Inn & Spa is the one. The inn dates back to 1832 and has hosted many famous guests over the years, Eleanor Roosevelt and Elizabeth Taylor among them. It is a luxurious spa hotel now and still holds most of its historic charm. Treat yourself to some pampering while you are inside the history.

Abingdon is a town with a long history and these three sites are only the start of it. The Civil War, the Revolutionary War or the town’s early settlers, the record here covers all three. Go and take a look at Abingdon’s past.

A Taste of Abingdon

Abingdon eats well, with a culinary scene rooted in Appalachia. For a taste of the town, here are the spots worth your appetite.

The Tavern

First up is The Tavern, a historic restaurant that has been serving delicious food since 1779. Yes, 1779. This place has been around longer than sliced bread, which was invented in 1928. You dine in the cozy, candlelit rooms of a colonial-era building and the building does half the work.

Do not let the history fool you. The Tavern’s menu is anything but old-fashioned. Modern twists on classic dishes turn up throughout, the Tavern Burger with bacon jam and pimento cheese among them. For something fancier, the Lobster Mac and Cheese is worth every penny.

Abingdon Farmers Market

Next, the Abingdon Farmers Market is where you stock up on local goodies. This is a food lover’s dream, with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade jams and more on the tables.

Grab a latte made with oat milk from the coffee stand, then work through the stalls. A homemade muffin still warm from the oven turns up, or a jar of honey harvested just down the road.

If you are feeling inspired, pick up fresh ingredients and cook your own Appalachian feast back at your vacation rental. Your taste buds will thank you.

That is only a taste of the dining and local food in Abingdon. Go and work through the delicious options this town has.

Artistic Abingdon

Abingdon is a hub for artistic expression, with galleries, theaters and creative spaces to work through. Here are two destinations for art lovers:

William King Museum of Art

For a dose of culture, the William King Museum of Art delivers. It is housed in a historic schoolhouse and runs a diverse range of exhibitions, contemporary art through to Appalachian crafts. Works by local and international artists sit alongside each other, which gives a unique perspective on the region’s creative scene.

The Appalachian Artists Collective is the standout exhibit at the William King Museum of Art, showing the work of emerging artists from the area. It is a good chance to find up-and-coming talent and put money behind the local arts community.

The Arts Depot

The Arts Depot is the other destination for art lovers. This creative hub runs galleries, studios and performance spaces, which makes it a real center for artistic expression in Abingdon.

The Appalachian Arts Center is the highlight of The Arts Depot, celebrating the cultural heritage of the region. Exhibits and workshops there focus on traditional crafts, music and storytelling.

Beyond the galleries and workshops, The Arts Depot hosts performances too, theater productions through to live music. Check the schedule and catch a show while you are in town.

Contemporary art or traditional crafts, Abingdon has both. Take a stroll through the galleries, soak up the culture, and put something behind the local arts scene.

Theatrical Thrills in Abingdon

Fans of theatrical performances do well in Abingdon. The town is home to the famous Barter Theatre, also known as the State Theatre of Virginia. Here is a closer look at the venue and what it runs.

Barter Theatre

The Barter Theatre has a long history and first opened its doors in 1933. It ran on a unique idea: patrons could pay for performances with produce or any other trade goods. The idea is known as trading ham for Hamlet.

The Barter Theatre is no ordinary stage. It has a long-standing reputation for presenting some of the better plays in the country, and it has hosted productions of popular Broadway shows like Footloose and Off-Broadway productions like The Marvelous Wonderettes.

State Theatre of Virginia

The Barter Theatre is also known as the State Theatre of Virginia, and for good reason. It has been putting on quality theatrical performances for over 85 years, which makes it one of the oldest professional houses in the country.

There are two stages, the Gilliam Stage and the Smith Stage, running a variety of performances through the year. Dramas, comedies, musicals and children’s shows all turn up on one or the other.

Theater enthusiasts should not miss the Barter Theatre. With its long history and its reputation for quality performances, it is the one destination in Abingdon to make certain of.

The Tavern has been serving food since 1779, and the candlelit rooms in it are the original ones. The Barter Theatre opened by letting people pay for a seat with produce, which is where trading ham for Hamlet comes from. White’s Mill still stands. Holston Mountain Artisans is the co-op carrying that work on now, over 100 makers deep.

Outdoor Adventures in Abingdon

Abingdon suits outdoor enthusiasts. The town sits in Southwest Virginia, surrounded by some of the better natural landscapes in the state. A leisurely hike or an adrenaline-pumping bike ride, Abingdon covers both. Here are two outdoor adventures worth the effort:

Virginia Creeper Trail

For biking, the Virginia Creeper Trail is the one to do when visiting Abingdon. This 34-mile trail starts in Whitetop Station and ends in Abingdon, running along a former railroad bed converted into a multi-use trail. It is named after the steam engine that used to climb the steep grades of the route, and it is one of the better rail-trails in the country.

The Virginia Creeper Trail suits all ages and skill levels and opens up the scenery of Southwest Virginia. Bike rental shops in Abingdon will set you up, or bring your own. The trail also takes hiking and horseback riding.

Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

For a harder outdoor adventure, the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area is the answer. This area is part of the Jefferson National Forest and holds some of the highest peaks in Virginia, Mount Rogers among them, which is the highest peak in the state.

Many hiking trails run through the area, from easy to strenuous. The Appalachian Trail is the popular one and runs through the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. It is a favorite among hikers and backpackers and opens up the surrounding mountains.

Beyond hiking, fishing, camping and wildlife watching all run in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. The area holds a diverse range of wildlife, black bears, deer and wild turkeys among them.

Abingdon suits outdoor adventurers and these two are only the start of it. Seasoned hiker or casual biker, there is a route here for you. Pack your bags, grab your gear and get out into it.

Unique Shopping Experiences

Looking for unique shopping in Abingdon, Virginia? Abingdon holds some of the more interesting and quirky shops you will come across. Here are a couple of our favorites:

White’s Mill

For antiques and vintage items, White’s Mill is the stop. This historic building has stood since the 1790s and now holds a variety of vendors selling everything from furniture to jewelry. You never know what will turn up at White’s Mill, and it is always interesting.

Holston Mountain Artisans

For something more contemporary, Holston Mountain Artisans is the answer. This co-op carries the work of over 100 local artists, pottery, quilts, jewelry and more. Traditional Appalachian crafts sit alongside modern art pieces. One of the makers may be in the room while you are there.

Whatever you are after, Abingdon has it. Antiques, handmade crafts or just browsing gift shops, something unique and interesting turns up in this charming town. Take a stroll down Main Street and see what catches your eye. You might find your new favorite store.

Historic Landmarks

Abingdon, Virginia is steeped in history and the historic landmarks are worth the walk. Here are a few not to miss:

Abingdon Vineyards

You might not think of vineyards in Abingdon, and Abingdon Vineyards is the stop for wine lovers. This family-owned vineyard has been producing wines that win things since 2001. A tour of the vineyard and winery is available, and so is a tasting. A glass while looking out over the vines is a reasonable way to spend an afternoon.

Episcopal Church

The Episcopal Church in Abingdon is a Gothic Revival building. The stone church was built in 1858. It holds stained glass windows and intricate woodwork. The building carries its age plainly. A resident ghost is said to walk it, the spirit of a former rector.

Abingdon is also home to several other beautiful churches, the United Methodist Church among them, which dates back to 1830, along with the General District Court Clerk, built in 1860.

Whatever your interests, Abingdon has plenty of historic landmarks to work through. Take a stroll through town and see what turns up. You never know what quiet finds are waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most delicious food joint in Abingdon, VA?

That is a tough one. Abingdon has a lot of great food options, and for something unique The Peppermill is the answer. They serve seriously delicious Cajun and Creole dishes that will make your taste buds dance.

What are the top 6 must-see attractions in Abingdon, VA?

Abingdon is full of things to see and do, and narrowed down to six we would recommend the Virginia Creeper Trail, the Barter Theatre, the William King Museum of Art, the Abingdon Farmers Market, the Abingdon Vineyard & Winery, and the Fields-Penn 1860 House Museum.

What’s the craziest outdoor activity to do in Abingdon, VA?

For serious outdoor fun, the Adventure Mendota zipline and tubing experience is the answer. You soar through the trees and splash down the river for an adrenaline rush you will not forget.

What are the top-rated hotels in Abingdon, VA?

Abingdon has some fantastic hotels, and the better-rated options include the Martha Washington Inn & Spa, the Hampton Inn Abingdon, and the Comfort Suites Abingdon.

What’s the most exciting event happening in Abingdon, VA this month?

It depends on when you are visiting, and Abingdon always has something going on. The Visit Abingdon website carries the list of upcoming events and activities.

What’s the best way to explore the nearby town of Damascus, VA?

One of the best ways to explore Damascus is by bike. The town is located right on the Virginia Creeper Trail, so you can rent a bike and pedal your way through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants and shops to check out along the way.

Frequently asked questions about Abingdon, Virginia

Which Abingdon trail works with kids?

The Virginia Creeper Trail runs 34 miles, and nobody with small kids does all of it. The shuttle up to Whitetop Station and the ride back down is the version that works, because the whole thing is downhill from there. Bike shops in town rent kid sizes and trailers for the little ones. The William King Museum of Art is the indoor fallback when legs give out. Restrooms are thin.

What is there for kids at the Barter Theatre in Abingdon?

The Barter Theatre runs children’s shows alongside the dramas, comedies and musicals it stages. Two stages. The Gilliam Stage and the Smith Stage are both downtown, which keeps the parking simple. A show plus dinner at The Tavern is a long evening for anyone under eight.

Is the Mount Rogers park good with kids?

Mount Rogers National Recreation Area has trails from easy to strenuous, so the choice about how far to go is honestly yours. The Appalachian Trail section is not a stroller walk. Fishing, camping and wildlife watching cost less. Black bears, deer and wild turkeys live there, which lands very differently with a small child than it does with you. Snacks and a nap in the car afterward are not optional.

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