E.g. This unforgettable drive will take you across the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a segment of the greater Appalachian Mountains, to quaint towns and attractions where youll stumble upon a weekly concert or an annual festival, a handcrafted weaving or pottery workshop, or myriad hiking and biking trails. Trains trundled down the Virginia Creeper Rail Linethe Abingdon Branch of the Norfolk & Western Railway, no doubt nicknamed for its slow pacefrom Whitetop Mountain to Abingdon until 1977. There are three galleries, artist studios, and both a classroom and consignment space, all housed inside Abingdons historic freight station. Bicycle Routes. Delicious. I would not make a special trip to see it, but if you are close by and like old mills in picturesque countryside, you would enjoy it. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Make your weekends memorable. Who doesnt love a craft brewery? If so, let us know in the comments below! It is also a great base for exploring the Jefferson National Forest, one of the top national sights in Virginia (and home of Mount Rogers!). Blog Regions Shenandoah Valley and Southwest Virginia. Read more about this cool hike below. After a day out on the town, theres nothing better than posting up on one of the lobbys couches with a glass of port, offered nightly at the reception desk. Things to do in Tuckahoe. The building was previously a school in 1913. What a great old cemetery. When the Depression-era theater opened in 1933, money was tight. They say the water is so cold itll distinguish the devil himself. If you are in Abingdon on a Tuesday or Saturday, swing by the Farmers Market in the market pavilion on Remsburg Drive. by Nichole | Last updated Apr 8, 2023 | Top Things to Do United States, Virginia. Now you do not have to do the entire hike to see the wild ponies. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. You can find the St. Thomas Episcopal Church at 124 E. Main Street in Abingdon. A Tailors Lodging is a great option if you want to stay right in the town of Abingdon. Just here for the day. Stay updated with events, opening hours, live music days, and more on their Facebook page. I have a love affair with pimento cheese. Even 3-star Michelin The Inn at Little Washington Restaurantis serving this star ingredient. Its gorgeous to take in any time of year, but especially spectacular in fall. But there it is, a sweet Appalachian town filled with upscale boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, sophisticated museums, historic inns, a thriving arts culture, and 8,000-ish residents who arent shy to share their hometown pride. This annual event takes place in Bristol, Tennessee, and draws An amazing mix of activities highlights this festival in historic Abingdon. While it may not be one of the most upbeat places to visit in Abingdon, it sure offers a small insight into the history of the Virginia town. We picked up a few of these delicious sandwiches to enjoy on our hike to Mount Rogers. Frequently Asked Questions about Abingdon. What a great old cemetery. Concerts of all genres entertain music lovers while workshops, lectures and crafts cater to the more artistic visitor. To help promote that slogan and Virginia travel, the state set up a branding initiative called the LOVEworks program. I would go again! William King Art Museum The William King Museum of Art is located in Abingdon, Virginia. 10 Best Things To Do in Abingdon Va in 72 Hours, 04- Have a Cocktail at the Oldest Bar in Virginia, 08-Wine & Live Music at Abingdon Vineyards. Finally, add the last dramatic flourish to a super weekend by attending a live performance at the acclaimed Barter Theatre, one of the nation's oldest professional theaters and a must-see for visitors to Washington County. We met a lot of other tourists who were staying at this beautiful historic hotel. Established in 1990, the Abingdon Arts Depot is an association and non-profit community-based arts center that strives to promote and focus on local artists. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Abingdon - Tripadvisor Today, the Barter Theatre welcomes over 160,000 visitors per year to experience their award-winning shows, musicals, and book adaptations. You can sample the oils and vinegars. Please recreate responsibly and Leave No Trace; pack out all trash you pack in, and park in designated areas only. Currently, there are two on-site tours you can do: The WKMA is the perfect thing to do in Abingdon for history and art lovers! We couldn't find Events This Weekend in Bristol at the moment. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in December. It's not the largest antique store we've visited but it has a nice variety of items. Usually 1-3 paragraphs, Wooly's - First Fleet Concerts - Wyatt Flores. You can find the William King Museum at 415 Academy Drive NW in Abingdon. Most people are familiar with the iconic slogan, Virginia is for Lovers. We spent 30-45 min looking around and learned quite a bit about history. I stumbled on this by accident. ), 24 Most Iconic Landmarks in Washington DC (+ Map! Lansing Creeper Trail Park recommended venue or other trail of your choice. We'll recommend events that you would not want to miss! We're glad we stopped in. Bristol, in particular, shares a border with both Tennessee and Virginia which makes it a unique place to visit. The log house built by the founders still stands today. E.g. If youre opting forAirbnband are not a member, be sure touse our code hereto receive$41 off of your first booking. Visiting The Arts Depot is a must-do in Abingdon, especially if you enjoy supporting local and shopping for local art. But even if you arent an overnight guest here, you can still visit and enjoy all that The Martha has to offer, especially the spa! You can find the Abingdon Farmers Market on the corner of Remsburg Drive and Cummings Street in downtown Abingdon, VA. This is a great way to fuel the rest of your day. Things To Do in Abingdon VA - Events Calendar - Town Planner Abingdon Vineyards was started in 2001 by Bob Carlson and Janet Norlin, two retired engineers. The hike itself is rated as difficult. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The store also sells handmade crafts, jams and jellies, antiques, and other local/regional products. The history of the establishment is quite interesting. Weekends become special if you know how to make the most out of it. I would absolutely love that!! This is great for times when you are driving out for a hike or before starting the Virginia Creeper Trail. Free Things To Do in Virginia - Virginia is for Lovers Take a dip at Mills Pond, and then enter into the Devils Bathtub if you dare! It was even voted the Best Small Town Food Scene by USA Today. Put it on your list for your next small-town getaway! Thanks Mel yea we stupidly didnt mention it as a place in the initial article and we eventually added it in there. Kids. He was also an owner of The Tavern (which is famous for fabulous offerings). WARNING: IF YOU TASTE; YOU WILL BUY! We stopped to see some of the historic sights in this small town on our route from Johnson City to Roanoke as its just off I-81. The William King House shown is not the same as the William King Museum of Art, previously William King High School. I love savory items, but I definitely have a sweet tooth and am picky about where I spend those calories. To add this map to your Google Maps account, click the Star icon next to the map name. Everyone who works here extremely happy to help you. Especially because I have been there more than once! This isnt your ordinary Visitors Center, so take advantage while youre here! 48 Hours of Adventure: How to Have an Unforgettable Weekend in Southwest Virginia Historic Charm Arts in Abingdon Girlfriend Getaway Regional Attractions Dining, Shopping, and More: Your Guide to In-Town Exploration in Abingdon Adventure and Pampering Trail Town, USA: Your Guide to a Weekend in Abingdon and Damascus The first 17 miles are downhill, so anyone can do it! Virginia Creeper Trail (Abingdon) - All You Need to Know - Tripadvisor Subscribed to personalized events updates! I was very interested in the Confederate cemetery. The decor and vibe would be best described as stately and elegant. If youre looking to combine history with luxury lodging look no further than the Martha Washington Inn & Spa in Abingdon. What are the top attractions to visit in Abingdon? Whites Mill is one of the last remaining (and working) grist mills in SWVA. Find out my top 10 things to do in Abingdon, Va on your next small town getaway. Next time you and Aram are coming to Abingdon please let me know and Ill try to arrange a visit with me and Id love to show you around my Bed & Breakfast (Blacks Fort Inn B&B). Visit Abingdon VA Sat Jul 01 2023 at 01:00 pm Jun 29 Contemplating Character. Hiking with wild ponies on the Appalachian Trail. The cafe serves up some serious coffee and also makes a fantastic matcha latte. I am a relative newcomer to Abingdon but I love the town and (most) of the residents I have met. Of course, we are going to be biased, but we loved our charming Vrbo rental. Oh well, next time. During the Great Depression, out-of-work New York City actors came up with the idea to establish a barter theater in Abingdon. Unfortunately, we didnt have the chance to sip on a cocktail here because we got their hours mixed up. This famous Virginia grist mill is a historic landmark in Abingdon and has been serving the community since the 18th century, providing locals with meal and flour for farms and kitchens. It is a museum that was founded in 1980. Get a Spa Treatment or relax by the pool at The Martha Washington. The owners renovated the old building into a stylish farmhouse chic rental. Watch the video below and you can enjoy a virtual tour of Abingdon and its most famous attractions: Have you visited Abingdon recently? 163. One of those community signs is located across from the Barter Theatre. Please, Save this event: Build Customer Loyalty with Email Marketing, Save this event: Reviving the Thread: Womens 20th Century Quilting, Save this event: Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) - Lansing Area, Save this event: Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) - Dungannon Area, Save this event: How To Save And Fix Your Relationship/Marriage (FREE Webinar) Watauga, Save this event: The Kindest People | Jusfine, Save this event: Bad Idols | Elderbug | Ham Radio, Save this event: Smartphone Detective Audio Game | Kingsport, TN, Save this event: Bakersville Scavenger Hunt For Couples - SHOW LOVE (Date Night! Whites Mill is a historic grist mill (stone ground corn meal and grits) located near Abingdon, VA. At 150 years old, it has earned its place in the Virginia and National Registries of Historic Places (listed in 1974). Im no beer connoisseur like some of you, but Wolf Hills has quite the compelling list of beer on tap from IPAs (and a special Double IPA, apparently), Lagers, Porters, Goses, Stouts, and beyond. The Tavern has hosted so many prolific guests such as Henry Clay, Louis Philippe (King of France), Pierre Charles LEnfant, and President Andrew Jackson. East Tennessee Independence Day Boat Party is hosted at "South Holston Lake - Other side of lake opposite Lake View Dock- Bristol . This will be a regular site to visit when I come to Abingdon. Beautiful artwork at affordable prices. Be forewarned: Youll want to stay a week or more. The exhibitions vary and you can find local and international art inside of it. Thanks for your support! In 2018, a California family moved cross-country to also assist with scaling the winery. This is where all the local farmers and artisans come together to sell their products. They also offers smoothies and cocktails and a good selection of breakfast and lunch items. These days, you can pack five exquisitely produced plays into a weekend by visiting the historic theater and its sister performance venue, The Smith Stage, located right across the street. THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Abingdon Best Free Things to Do in Abingdon Enter dates Filters 1 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Shopping Types of Attractions Museums Sights & Landmarks Nature & Parks Traveler rating Good for Free Entry Best 4th of July Boat Parties Around The USA, Reptile Super Show Anaheim, Ca. Top 5 Amazing Things to Do in Abingdon, Virginia Better than researching ancestry on line. Abingdon, VA in a Weekend - Livability The Abingdon Farmers Market is located in downtown Abingdon and is a great way to support local businesses and farmers in the city. Originally, the graveyard was established for members of the Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church but has come to house tombs for enslaved people owned by these members, as well as unknown soldiers from the Civil War. Thank you! The Best of Barter. Not only can you purchase products there, but you can also purchase handmade gifts such as quilts, artwork, books from Appalachian writers, and much more from the local community. This guide talks about what to do in Abingdon and gives some quick tips for those visiting Abingdon for the first time. Check out all upcoming weekend events in Abingdon. It is a museum that was founded in 1980. Great 38 MILE flat, paved, and shaded trail. Expect local mom & pop restaurants, all offering up some delicious food choices. The Barter Theatre holds dear the values of Robert Porterfield and looks to make the theatrical arts available to everyone. The Virginia Creeper Trail is one of the best things to do in Abingdon and you dont have to even go the entire route (I didnt!). The Episcopal Church dates all the way back to 1841 and the first building was consecrated by Bishop John Johns in 1846. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. A lot of times they will have food trucks available when you get the munchies. Sonder Abingdon VA Sat Jul 22 2023 at 11:00 am . 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Much of the equipment is in the building with signs describing what each was used for. Points of Interest & Landmarks Cemeteries. Learn more here. Great view of runners in shorts and halter tops bouncing through the woods. The night we were going to check it out, they were packed and there was literally no parking. There is also a venue known as The Barns at the intersection of Boundary with Chip Ridge Road. Everyone friendly and informative. The Barter Theatre opened its doors in 1933 in the midst of the Great Depression, with the goal of bringing hope and joy back to the American Population through theatrical performances. Found a raspberry balsamic this trip and some infused oils we cant wait to try @ home. Tucked away in the rolling green highlands of southwestern Virginia, Abingdon comes as a surprise. Abingdon was voted Best Small Town Food Scene in America three years in a row by USA Today. Today, the Creeper accounts for a huge percentage of town revenue and creates the need for restaurants and B&B lodgings. She is an expert on culture, history, food and wine, and social justice issues and regularly contributes to national publications sharing her expertise. The olive oil was great as expected since its in the name of the company. This is a list of unique things to do in Abingdon- from the main tourist attractions to one of the best bike trails in Virginia. Abingdon is simply one of those destinations that has it all: heritage sites, outdoor recreation, folk music, regional art, culture, awesome food you name it! Thanks be to God and to His servants at St. Thomas Church. Click here to view their website. Who would expect an award-winning theater in this distant corner of the state? Hands down, biking the Virginia Creeper Trail is considered the #1 thing to do in Abingdon. You can visit this cozy spot at 222 E. Main Street in Abingdon. Pretty easy trail and mostly Wolf Hills was a quick stop on our way to dinner, but in the 30 minutes we were there we felt like locals. Click here to check out their website for additional information. Discover the best things to do this weekend in Bristol, foodie things, artistic love or just aimlessly cycling! This is not your average grocery store olive oil. Robert Porterfield, the founder of the theatre, allowed people to barter their way in by paying with food. Such talent! Great view of runners in shorts and halter tops bouncing through the woods. Plan a romantic weekend filled with luxurious accommodations and historic charm. The Barter Theatre went on to become highly acclaimed, even giving Gregory Peck his start. In fact, there are several trailhead access points along the 34-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, so you can pick between a leisurely ride or a challenging all-day adventure. We tried the eclair, chocolate mocha (dark chocolate, espresso pan cotta, mascarpone cream, and chocolate almond crunch), and key lime pie. Very charming & welcoming. Thank you for your continued support. Walked in looking for neat history. CHECK AVAILABLE DATES ON MARTHA WASHINGTON INN, CHECK AVAILABLE DATES ON A TAILOR'S LODGING. We spent 30-45 min looking around and learned quite a bit about history. Things to do in Short Pump. ), 10 Beautiful Delaware Beaches (to Add to Your Bucket List! 9 Most Charming Towns In Virginia - WorldAtlas Abingdon County Hall Museum. Beautiful artwork at affordable prices. REACH OUT, FOLLOW, OR SHARE THIS POST WITH A FRIEND! The Abingdon Muster Grounds features the Keller Interpretive Center and a certified 0.6-mile section of the Overmountain Victory Trail which makes up the 330-mile National Historic Trail. I had the ImmuniTea, which had Echinacea tea, honey, lemon ginger, agave, and elderberry. I would not make a special trip to see it, but if you are close by and like old mills in picturesque countryside, you would enjoy it. Pair your sandwich with a freshly made rosemary scone if they are available. Open daily from 9am-5pm, the Interpretive Center showcases exhibits that explore what life was like for men, women, African-Americans, Native Americans, and British Loyalists living in the colonial backcountry and the Overmountain region of SWVA during the Revolutionary War. After you drop your bags, it is time for you to enjoy a delicious dinner at The Martha Hotel and Spa. Tip: For a fun and easy ride, park your vehicle in Damascus and rent your bikes at a local outfitter (e.g. 19 Historic & Outdoorsy Things to Do in Abingdon, Virginia Theres something for everyone on the list! Plenty of parking and easy interstate access. Fun Things to Do in Southwest Virginia on an SWVA Road Trip William King Museum Abingdon, VA. Share this event. Abingdon, Virginia oozes Southern charm. Submit your event in Abingdon VA today! Your email address will not be published. Great, friendly farmers market with lots of fresh choices of veggies, eggs, some meats, pastries and some local crafts! And I even grew up in Virginia and have planned quite a few Virginia getaways! Adventure Damascus, The Bike Station, Creeper Trail Bike Rental), then take the complimentary shuttle bus to Whitetop Station. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 Enriching Pursuits. The exhibitions vary and you can find local and international art inside of it. If you time it right, you may have it all to yourself. While the days of bartering produce for admission may be over, every June, the theatre continues the tradition where (for at least one show) people can gain entrance by donating food to Feeding America Southwest Virginia. Of the galleries, the Spotlight Gallery features exhibitions of juried shows (artwork selected through a competitive process) while the Founders Gallery offers special workshops, classes, and exhibits. Three stories to explore. Suggest edits to improve what we show. This location is ideal for a walk among the wildlife. William King Museum. Really nice folks. Christmas ales were some of the best I have ever had and the pizza truck outside made a good pizza. Things to Do in Abingdon This Weekend | Eventbrite Things To Do In Bristol, TN This Weekend | June 30-2, 2023 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Michael, a local historian, greeted us and described the events that led to the battle. this is an old non operating mill. Take an historic inn, amazing theater, a scenic bike trail and fabulous restaurants and you've got everything you need for a fantastic trip. Or a popular rail-trail zipping down a mountainside? This beautiful historic hotel dates back to 1832 when it was a private residence for General Francis Preston and Sarah Buchanan Preston (along with their large family of 9 kids)!