The Best Things To Do On An Abingdon Virginia Getaway
The town of Abingdon, Virginia is located in Washington County right near the North Carolina state line. It was perfectly located in a central location that was easy for me to travel to from Tennessee and my aunt and uncle from Stuart, Virginia. I was excited to meet them there for my first visit to the little town of historic Abingdon. Whether you’re outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, or like to do your hiking through the shops and antique malls, Abingdon is a great place for you to explore. I am going to share some of the best things to do on an Abingdon Virginia getaway.
Places To Stay On An Abingdon Virginia Getaway
The Martha Washington Inn
Located right in downtown Abingdon, it’s the perfect place to stay within walking distance of the historic district where shops, the Barter Theatre, and historic sites are located.
This historic hotel dates back to 1832 as a private residence for General Francis Preston and Sarah Buchanan Preston and their nine children. In 1858 the inn changed ownership for the mansion to become an upscale college for young women named Martha Washington College. Then it became a makeshift hospital for the wounded, both Confederate and Yankee during the Civil War.
The Martha was closed in 1932 and reopened in 1935 as a hotel. For a little bit of time the Martha was used to house barter players like Patricia Neal, Ernest Borgnine, and Ned Beatty.
In 1984 The Martha Washington was purchased and the company began a multi million dollar renovation carefully designed to preserve and enhance much of its original splendor and architectural detail.
In 1995 modern amenities such as the spa, pool, tennis and pickleball court and putt putt course were added. At the same time the guest rooms were updated. A library with over 1000 volumes was created, the owners researched and collected images of the Inn’s former days as a women’s college and opened the Sisters American Grill.
One of my favorite things were the pictures and ephemera from the college days that was framed throughout the hotel. It was like walking through history.
Speaking of Sister American Grill they offer a free breakfast each morning of your stay. This was plated, not a buffet. On the morning of our stay they started with a yogurt parfait, blueberry muffin, egg, grits, bacon and a biscuit. It was a lot of food to fuel your day of exciting adventures.
Other options to stay in are the Hampton Inn, Bed and Breakfasts, and air B&Bs.
Make The Barter Theatre Part Of Your Abingdon Virginia Getaway
Barter Theatre is the state theatre of Virginia, the nation’s longest running professional theatre, and has received countless awards and accolades over its history.
The earliest theatrical event known to occur here was a production of The Virginian on January 14, 1876. The building then served different purposes for the town of Abingdon Virginia.
The Barter Theatre officially opened its doors on June 10, 1933 proclaiming “With vegetables you cannot sell, you can buy a good laugh.” The price of admission was 35 cents or an equivalent amount of produce. Four out of five theatregoers paid their way with vegetables, dairy products and livestock.
My aunt, uncle and I saw the musical Anne of Green Gables. It was very well done with live music played on the stage and the actors truly outdid themselves telling the story of Anne Shirley. My favorite parts in this Barter Theater production was that of Anne Shirley (the perfect amount of drama) and Matthew Cuthbert (singing “Puffy Sleeves” was amazing).
Check Out The Thriving Arts Scene On Your Abingdon Virginia Getaway
The Southwest Virginia Cultural Center
Formerly Heartwood, this huge building is a visitor center, a marketplace and is the headquarters of The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail and showcases the birthplace of country music. Check out their website to find out when you can catch a live performance. 180 artists from Southwest Virginia are featured here with over 5,000 pieces of art for sale. My uncle is featured here for the beautiful Shaker boxes he had made.
Arts Depot
The Arts Depot has three galleries and local artists who invite you to interact with them in their working studios. Folk art, clay, textiles, portraiture, jewelry, oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media painting and many more unique things are showcased in this historic freight station built in the 1860’s. It also serves as a classroom and has special events throughout the year.
William King Museum Of Art
Displayed here is everything from contemporary art made right here in Appalachia to fine art from all around the world. This is a unique experience and you never know what hidden gems you’ll find awaiting you.
Outdoor Adventure In Abingdon Virginia
I will be honest, I am not an outdoorsy kinda gal. I prefer longer hikes through antique stores and art galleries but I did my research for you!
The Virginia Creeper Trail
This is a 34-mile trail not only for a bike ride but also to walk, run, fish, go horseback riding, people watch, cross country ski and geocache. Along the way breathtaking views of the native fauna and flora and the railroad trestles give a glimpse into the history of the region.
The trail stretches from Whitetop Mountain and Whitetop Station which is the second highest point in Virginia through Damascus and into Abingdon. The trail intersects with the Appalachian Trail at a few points along your journey.
Abingdon offers easy access to the Creeper Trail with bike shops that can rent bikes and provide shuttle service to the trail head.
Along the trail in between Abingdon and Damascus is Alvarado Station. This section of the trail includes a parking area, river access, picnic shelters, restrooms, and an old historic Alvarado Station marker. Not far away is the Abingdon Vineyards which you can tour.
At the time of writing this (September 2025) the aftermath of Hurricane Helene has affected the trail in many ways. The trail between Abingdon and Damascus is open. However, 18 miles of the 34-mile mile Creeper Trail, from Damascus to Whitetop, have been devastated. It will take time and significant funding to rebuild, please visit their website to find out how to help and more information.
More Outdoor Experiences
Hungry Mother State Park is forty minutes from Abingdon. Hiking trails, boating and fishing are just some of the activities your whole family will enjoy.
Grayson Highlands State Park is about an hour from Abingdon. Experience scenic beauty on the hiking trails leading to waterfalls and overlooks. You also can encounter wild ponies during your time on the trail.
Discover The History of Abingdon Virginia
One of the first things I do in small towns is to take myself on a self-guided tour of the buildings and homes in the area. I love the old architecture, advertising and outdoor areas like parks, fountains etc.
Abingdon’s historic downtown was the perfect spot to check out the historic charm that has been preserved throughout the years.
Abingdon Muster Grounds
While visiting, tour the Keller Interpretive Center, walk a short section of the Overmountain Victory Trail, or enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
Other places to visit are the Fields-Penn 1860 House Museum, White Mill (only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday), and Fairview Historic Homestead.
Shopping and Dining During Your Abingdon Virginia Getaway
Abingdon is known as the best small town food scene. The local restaurants are varied in their cuisine and you can find something for everyone! I was even able to find vegan options!
If shopping is your choice of cardio then you will get your workout in. From Zephyr Antiques which has four floors to the Antique Barn with over 24,000 square feet of antiques and so many other shops in the downtown area and more throughout the area save a day and room in the suitcase for shopping.
Whether you seek natural beauty in the great outdoors, one of the best places in Virginia for art, culture and shopping, or the best way to experience culinary delights in a beautiful small town, Abingdon is a great place for a relaxing getaway.
Before You Fly Away To Plan Your Abingdon Virginia Getaway
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