Exploring the best things to do in Abingdon, VA has become a real treat of mine. It’s only an hour and a half away from my city, and it’s one of the most charming places I’ve visited in the area.
Get to know this historic gem with these best attractions and activities in Abingdon, Virginia.
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Where is Abingdon, VA?
Abingdon is located in southwestern part of Virginia. It’s set within the scenic Appalachian Mountains, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers and the outdoorsy.
The town is easily accessible by car via Interstate 81 and is approximately 20 miles northeast of Bristol, Virginia/Tennessee and 15 miles west of Marion, Virginia. It’s also just a little over an hour and a half from Asheville, North Carolina.
With its central location in the Appalachian, Abingdon is a popular stop for those exploring the beauty of the region or anyone taking part in the Virginia Creeper Trail via bike.
Why is Abingdon, VA famous?
Abingdon has been a commercial, transportation, and political hub since 1778. Its history has led to a collection of 18th and 19th century buildings, one of the oldest being The Tavern.
Established in 1779 as an inn, The Tavern is now an upscale eatery while still retaining its historic charm. The walls are log and stone Colonial style and the building was constructed from local limestone.
Abingdon was also the intersection of two great Indigenous trails, so it’s not just a Colonial past that makes the town unique.
Now you walk along the Main Street and Valley Streets and see many of the town’s historic brick buildings and remnants of the past, many which now are rented out to amazing restaurants and boutiques.
Best things to do in Abingdon, VA
Now that you know a little bit about what makes Abingdon special, let’s dive into some ways to enjoy a weekend or even just a day in this lovely town.
Historic Downtown Abingdon
First things first, you’re going to want to take a walk through downtown Abingdon. This is the best way to get to know the town and spot out some places you might like to visit.
So, stroll down Main Street. You’ll come across many of the historic places included in this itinerary and maybe some other unique things to do in Abingdon.
There are arty cafes, picturesque tree-lined streets with 19th-century architecture, local boutiques, quaint shops – you name it.
I’ll tell you some specific places to explore downtown, but for now, just know that you should enjoy a walk through downtown no matter what.
Virginia Creeper Trail
The Virginia Creeper Trail is one of the best outdoorsy things to do in Abingdon. The trail, usually used for cycling, is 35 miles long and runs from Abingdon to Whitetop, Virginia.
The path is smooth with some wooden bridges. It’s considered easy and fairly flat. To do the whole route, it will take around 5.5 hours, including a lunch stop and taking in scenery along the way.
If you don’t have time for the full day’s ride (as a round trip journey would be pushing 10 hours), you can ride as little or as much of the trail as you like.
I recommend going from Abingdon to Alvarado Station via the Virginia Creeper Trail or even as far as Damascus, which is another charming Virginia city to visit.
You’ll pass along a lot of leafy foliage, streams, and a pretty bridge that crosses the South Fork Holston River when going just to Alvarado.
Check out my guide on how to bike the Virginia Creeper Trail for more tips.
Abingdon Vineyards
For a very rustic and charming afternoon with wine, Abingdon Vineyards makes for a lovely thing to do in the area.
It has an almost campground feel with circular picnic tables, string lights, and river views. It’s not one of those pretentious wineries. It’s a vineyard for those out who wine and the outdoors.
Join their scenic outdoor patio, stop by when there’s live music, and sample an assortment of Virginia’s grapes across 13 acres of vines.
They have whites, reds, a rosé, and even 2 dessert wines including a locally inspired honeysuckle dessert wine.
Their hours change seasonally, so be sure to check their website before driving over there.
Barter Theatre
Opened in 1933, visit the longest-running professional theatre in the country right on Main Street.
Even if you don’t go see a show, it’s a beautifully historic theatre with a big fountain right across the at street.
You can also see a range of shows here – from classic plays to contemporary productions.
Plan your visit by checking out the Barter Theatre show calendar.
Grayson Highlands State Park
Not technically in Abingdon, but a must do if you are spending more than 1 or 2 days in Abingdon and love wildlife hikes.
The Grayson Highlands State Park offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from its mountain meadows. But the main draw is the colony of wild ponies that live here.
There are around 50 and they were released here in 1975 and now they thrive on the land, helping to maintain the growth of brush along the meadows.
The park is an hour outside of Abingdon and it’s easily one of the best day trips you can do.
Sweet Bay Brewing Company
For a relatively small town, Abingdon has a great selection of places to drink and unwind.
Sweetbay Brewing Company has an industrial vibe with a big outdoor area, which is really nice on a warm day. Inside, they have a bright lounge with tons of natural light and a small stage where they sometimes have performances.
The only downside is that they don’t have a big selection of beers on tap. And they don’t do guest drafts, so it’s only their beer. However, they have a great rotation with seasonal offerings.
Tumbling Creek Cider Company
The bar in Abingdon that really surprised me though was the Tumbling Creek Cider Company. My boyfriend and I went together, and despite not being big cider drinkers, we loved everything we tried.
My favorite was a jalapeño cider. It wasn’t too spicy, but had a nice kick like a spicy margarita would have.
They also divide their menu up so you know what’s sweet and what’s dry. The dry ones were the best!
I also recommend the Moonshot, which is a semi-dry cider and one of their most popular offerings.
When you visit, keep in mind the taproom is a bit odd. It’s basically an open-air venue but they have a plastic covering on windy and cold days.
It’s also conveniently located behind the next place to visit in Abingdon, VA.
Bone Fire Smokehouse
For local BBQ (with vegetarian options!), enjoy lunch or dinner at Bone Fire Smokehouse. I had the vegetarian BBQ sandwich, so I can’t speak about the meat but my boyfriend was a huge fan.
They also have a lot of southern fixings like macaroni and cheese, beans, cornbread, potatoes, etc.
The Smokehouse has a full-service bar, so grab a cocktail or your drink of choice. And you can spruce up their BBQ with one of their homemade sauces which are free of charge over on the wall opposite the bar.
Love Sign & Midsummer Play Fountain
See some of Abingdon’s art and culture by seeing the Love sign and the stunning fountain that are both located across from the Barter Theatre.
The fountain is a depiction of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream in fountain form, and showcases the town’s arts history and celebration of theater.
The Girl & The Raven
My favorite place to eat in Abingdon is hands down The Girl & The Raven. It’s set in an old house which creaky floorboards and multiple different dining areas.
It’s a breakfast, brunch/lunch spot with a bakery, artisan coffee, and health-focused and southern delights.
Whatever you do, try their blue corn grits and a pastry. We had an amazing pecan croissant the last time we were there.
The Tavern
One of the most famous things to do in Abingdon, VA is to visit The Tavern. It’s a 1779 inn that is now an upscale bar and restaurant. It is still very old-world with the whole low ceilings, original details, and low-lit candles and lights.
It is a little pricier, so expect to pay more than $20 for a main dish. The dishes are a mix of American and German styles. I had a vegetarian jambalaya and my boyfriend had mussels and then schnitzel.
However, you can also just stop if and sit at the bar for a drink. Oftentimes, you might need to call ahead and reserve a spot because bookings fill up quickly.
St. Thomas Episcopal Church
See a historic parish built in the mid-1800s when you visit Abingdon, Virginia. It has a beautiful stone facade and ties to the Roosevelt family who frequented the church during their long stints in the area.
It’s also located on Main Street with a big medieval-like red door. During your walk downtown, it’s certainly worth stopping by and admiring.
Where to Stay in Abingdon, VA
Plan your escape to this charming southwestern Virginia town with these best places to stay in Abingdon.
Abingdon Tiny Home: Stay on a 10-acre property when you book this adorable 2-person tiny home just outside of Abingdon.
Riverfront Cabin: The last time I visited, we stayed in this cute cabin-style place right on the river. It’s very rustic and charming with a small balcony and comfy swing chairs. Full kitchen as well!
Three-bedroom family home: Perfect for those traveling as a family or group. Beautiful property and sleeps up to 8.
Hampton Inn: If you want to stay downtown, the Hampton Inn is very close by and within walking distances to many of the best places to see in Abingdon.
Camp: For a fun experience, camp along the Virginia Creeper Trail! This is what we are planning to go when we visit next.
And if you’re exploring more of Appalachia, be sure to check out my guide on non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains.
