How to Spend the Perfect Day in Washington County, VA

Patrick Atkins

Looking to spend a full day finding fabulous places to eat and seeking fun things to do in Washington County, Virginia? Here’s a curated guide to help you have the most unforgettable day imaginable, from morning until night. Enjoy!

Morning: Fuel up in Damascus

Start the day off on the right foot: with breakfast and coffee, obviously! If you’re craving a full, hot meal with all the fixings, you simply must grab a table at Wilson’s Cafe and Grill. If grab-and-go is more your style, head on over to Main Street Sweets & Eats for a cup of coffee and delicious pastry. 

After enjoying your morning meal, it’s time to find some fun things to do in Washington County that will get the blood pumping. Find the nearest bike rental retailer (like Adventure Damascus) and hop on their provided shuttle to Whitetop Station, skipping an uphill climb. 

When you’re ready to start your ride, you’ll travel downhill along the Virginia Creeper Trail all the way back to Damascus. That’s 17 beautiful miles and one of the most breathtaking and relaxing bike rides you’ll ever take, thanks to the very gentle downward grade and incredible Virginia scenery.

Of course, if biking isn’t your thing, you can always go for an easy hike along the Appalachian Trail. Be sure to stop by the Damascus Trail Center first to plan out your route.

Lynne Harty

Afternoon: Explore Abingdon

After such invigorating outdoor excursions, it’s a safe bet that you’re hungry again, right? Stop in at Wicked Chicken Winghouse and Tavern to refuel on wings, burgers, fresh salads and more. If day drinking sounds appealing right about now, you could also head over to The Damascus Brewery and try something off an extensive catalog of craft brews. To remember the whole experience, purchase one of the many memorable and unique souvenirs at Discover Damascus. 

When you’re ready to hit the town again, take a drive over to Abingdon’s charming downtown to do a little walking and shopping. Get your craft on at the infinitely adorable yarn store, A Likely Yarn, which carries crocheting and knitting supplies. Do a taste test at Abingdon Olive Oil Co., which carries premium, specialty olive oils and balsamic vinegars. 

Marvel at the creations of local artists at The Arts Depot’s open galleries or William King Museum of Art, which also features collections from around the world. Wander the aisles at Abingdon Commons, a market-meets-community food hall where you can grab an afternoon coffee at Brazen Raven or pick up a snack at Blue Hills Community Market. 

While downtown, set some time aside to walk or drive through Abingdon’s historic district, where you’ll find beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. This district encompasses a 22-block radius and includes churches, private residences and retail buildings, all of which have been lovingly preserved. 

Jay Huron

Evening: Wind Down with Dinner, Drinks, Views

After a full day of exploring and sightseeing, treat yourself to yet more good eats by hitting up a local hot spot. Try Greeko’s Grill & Cafe, a casual Greek eatery that serves up some incredibly authentic flavors and dishes. If you’re a meat eater, order the lamb – it’s their bestseller! If you’re not, the falafel is an appetizing alternative. 

Craving a cuisine closer to home? Treat yourself to good ole American fare with a Southern twist at 128 Pecan. You really can’t go wrong with anything you order off the menu, but the cheeseburger egg rolls, hush puppies and tomato bisque are particularly popular. 

Also, American – but with a unique dining atmosphere – is Summers Roof and Cellar, which serves up impressively tasty food and top-notch wine. Choose to sit in the cellar, a more intimate setting, or the rooftop, which includes a delightful view of historic Abingdon and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Finally, if you’re looking for something that’s quaint, historic and hearty, check out The Peppermill, a culinary gem set in a historic home. The rooms have been transformed into dining areas, and there’s even seating outside on the porch. 

Other dining staples in Abingdon include acai bowls from the Blended Pedaler, Italian pies served hot at PizzaLand and comfort-food favorites at JJ’s Restaurant & Sports Bar. 

With so many options to choose from, you truly can’t go wrong. So, dinner and drinks? Check. 

Now, finish the night off with some live entertainment. If you’re lucky enough to be in town on a day when the Barter Theatre is performing one of its seasonal productions, you must book tickets. You could also catch a show at the renovated Moonlite Drive-In Theatre or head over to Sweetbay Brewing Co. to enjoy some live music. 

Bonus: Enjoy These Washington County Festivals

When looking for fun things to do in Washington County, be sure to check the calendar for these great events. 

APPALACHIAN TRAIL DAYS FESTIVAL: During this festival in May, around 20,000 thru-hikers make the pilgrimage to Damascus for a reunion and to celebrate the Appalachian Trail, which runs directly through downtown. Activities include a Thru-Hiker Parade, an artisan market and a lineup of entertainers. 

ABINGDON FIDDLERS’ CONVENTION: Abingdon Fiddlers’ Convention is part of The Crooked Road, a 300-mile stretch through Southwest Virginia that commemorates Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail at different sites and events in 19 counties, four cities and 54 towns. This event takes place in late June to celebrate bluegrass history in the Appalachian region, with more than 150 adult and youth musicians participating in competitions. 

VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS FESTIVAL: In Abingdon, the Virginia Highlands Festival occurs for 10 days each summer to showcase the arts, music and food of Southwest Virginia. The 2025 festival will be the 76th annual. 

WASHINGTON COUNTY FAIR: Every September, the Washington County Fair comes to life at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Abingdon. The fairgrounds offer livestock events, fun rides, competitions and local food vendors. 

– Kevin Litwin contributed to this article.