Small Town, Big Fun: A Weekender’s Guide to Abingdon, Virginia

When you need a fun weekend getaway, small towns that are hidden from plain sight are often the best places to go. Expect calmness, serenity and a little fun thrown into the mix.

Tucked in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Abingdon, Virginia, is known for its historic buildings, beautiful mountain hiking and biking trails, and a quaint, tranquil downtown area. Located about a two-hour drive west of Roanoke, Virginia, and two hours north of Asheville, North Carolina, it's a bustling little hub of activity.

Although it's a small mountain town with only about 9,000 residents, Abingdon attracts thousands of visitors each year with its shows at the renowned Barter Theatre and the opportunity to hike and bike on the Virginia Creeper Trail.

Take in a Show at the Barter Theatre

Abingdon's most popular attraction is the Barter Theatre. The nation’s longest-running professional theater offers up productions of a variety of contemporary plays and musicals. Opened during the Great Depression, it got its name from the practice of allowing local residents to pay for admission with whatever they could afford to barter, including chickens and apple pies.

Many well-known actors have performed at the theater, including Gregory Peck and Ernest Borgnine so for drama buffs, it’s a must-visit. Open from February to December, it also hosts a series of shows by regional Appalachian playwrights each year.

Hike or Bike on the Virginia Creeper Trail

Many visitors come to Abingdon to experience the scenic Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile biking and hiking trail that was formerly a railroad line. The trailhead is easy to find, situated next to a free parking lot in downtown Abingdon. Cyclists of all ages and abilities can experience its scenic beauty without a steep climb, and the trail winds through forests and hills that extend almost to the North Carolina border.

Discover the Local Arts and Crafts

Delight in the abundant regional craft traditions with a visit to Heartwood, a complex of galleries and studios where expert artisans offer their latest creations in clay, fiber, wood, metal, and other mediums.

For more artistry, check out the Arts Depot located in a historic freight station dating back to the 1890s. Resident weavers and potters may work quietly in their studios while you browse the many striking bowls and pieces of handmade jewelry for sale. For more fun, stay for coffee or wine and live music. It’s a popular spot in the summer as warmer, lighter nights take hold and a lovely spot for taking a break from shopping.

For a different experience altogether, take a pleasant drive on the Countryside Artisan Trail to visit artists at their studios.

Sample the Farm-to-Table Cuisine

The Abingdon Farmers Market offers the opportunity to stock up on garden-fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and prepared foods from regional farms. But be sure to double check the operating hours before you go, as they change throughout the year. Local eateries include the popular Rain Restaurant, which lists many local farms as suppliers, and The Peppermill. If you have time, take a leisurely drive to Abingdon Vineyard and Winery to sip the latest varieties, but remember to assign a designated driver if you’re enjoying a little wine tasting.

Indulge in Sweet Treats and Late Nights

Stroll downtown at sunset to make your way to 149 Sweets, which offers house-made ice cream and baked goods, or try Anthony's Desserts to enjoy hand-roasted coffee alongside a truffle or tart. Enjoy a nightcap and a cozy evening at the stately Martha Washington Inn and Spa, which mixes period furnishings with modern conveniences. The inn enjoys a storied past, having served as a private residence, women's college, and Civil War hospital. As a hotel, it's hosted many famous guests, from Eleanor Roosevelt to Elizabeth Taylor.

A weekend in Abingdon can have you riding your bicycle through the gorgeous Blue Ridge region, taking selfies in the picturesque downtown, and enjoying crafts, theater, and dining. Follow us on Twitter to discover more intriguing getaway destinations.